They’re a project, a diversion like a stray cat: He feeds them, they leave satisfied and come back, he stays connected.
Ana, would you set the table?
Paul, would you open the wine? How was work?
They relax. He watches and listens. He notes their gestures and their slang. The looks they give each other (inside jokes, shared confidences, amity, love?)...
Paul slips into the kitchen, behind Zed...
- What’s cookin’, Mister Z?
and snitches a spear of broccoli from the pan. A good-natured smack on the hand from a wooden spoon, and, as a peace offering, Paul hands Zed a glass of wine.
- Ana and I were just talking about your trip out West. Have you guys decided when you’re leaving?
- No, not yet. I haven’t talked to Neil about dates yet.
- Itinerary?
- That, too, ha. I used to dream about a life filled with excitement and danger...and I ended up living a life filled with plans.
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