“I have, but I love it here in Los Angeles. The weather, my friends, well before they moved away, but I’ve got new ones. Plus, I love the hospital I’m at. I’ve built a rapport with people in the community and co-workers, so, I’ve gotten very comfortable.”
“You have aspirations to be promoted I take it?”
“Yes. I’d love to be chief of staff or another higher position. I’m my parents only child, so they have high hopes for me as I do for myself.”
“That’s lovely, but you could do so much good in another country without efficient health care.”
Gideon nodded. “Actually, I dreamed of practicing in Africa when I was in college, but my friends talked me out of it, saying I might struggle. The other thing was, I wanted to take care of my parents. They sacrificed so much for me to get where I am, so I wanted to repay them. To a certain extent, I’ve done that, paying off their home and their car. And I set up an emergency fund for them in case they need it.”
“That’s wonderful, and I’m sure they appreciate it, but please, think of taking your talents elsewhere. There is more to life than money. My host seemed to understand that. He accumulated large amounts, only spending it on necessities, but he also didn’t stress about material things. He didn’t let wealth stop him from doing what he wanted.”
“See? He did have some great qualities.”
“Yes, I suppose there were a few, but he could’ve done more. I don’t want you to make that mistake. Waking up and figuring out all the money you made means nothing because you don’t have anything to show for it. When you work day in and day out, you miss out on the better things. Don’t let those opportunities pass you by.”
“I won’t. So where to now? I’m almost done with this sandwich. We could go walking around if you’d like.” Gideon popped the rest in his mouth.
“I would. Let me finish the salad first. It’s amazing.” Kiernan dug in, forking several bites into his mouth, until nothing much was left. He chewed then pushed the small plate away. “Alright, let’s go.”
Gideon snorted. “You ate that in record time.”
“It was too good to waste.” Kiernan got up and grabbed his containers as well as Gideon’s to throw away in the trash.
“Guess I didn’t need those last few fries.”
Kiernan dropped the items in the bin. “Nope. You’ve had enough. Let’s walk, Doctor.”
Chapter Five
Their walk on the beach was cut short by rain.
Kiernan had no issue with it, but Gideon didn’t like getting wet if they didn’t have to. To him, they’d had a full day already, spending most of it in the museum then chatting over lunch. Time to go home and relax, perhaps find another movie to watch then eventually go to bed before heading out again tomorrow.
“So, what now, Doctor? Should we take in another movie? Maybe the next one will be more suitable.”
“We could or watch television. Whichever you’d prefer.” Gideon had changed into his shorts and t-shirt. Perfect bedtime wear, but he’d humor Kiernan by not begging to turn in.
“Either is fine. Are there any particular shows you watch?”
“Cooking shows because I admire people’s skills and any television show that talks about medicine and the human body.”
Kiernan cocked an eyebrow. “Seriously?”
Gideon rose his hands. “What? A lot of those programs are great.” Gideon grabbed the remote, switching to the on-screen guide. “Look at that. There’s a special on the brain and how it works, or we could watch talented chef. I like him a lot.”
“Boooring.” Kiernan snatched the remote from his hand and pressed the button. “Here’s a show we might be interested in. Historical with mythical creatures, mystery.”
“Nah. Not a fan. I’ve seen it and got bored quickly.”
“But a guy cooking food or them talking about the mind is fun? Doctor…” Kiernan shook his head.
“What’s wrong with that? Plenty of people watch cooking shows.”
“Yes, but that isn’t fun at all. It would be nice to view something that allowed your mind an escape. I can feel you’re still antsy about your patient.”
“I am. No one has contacted me about the specialist that visited her.”
“Maybe because they’ve got it handled and realize you’re on your day off?”
“Well, staying on top of things is how you get promoted too. You get noticed and recognized for great things, so…”
“But that doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to have a life. You can be a good medic and still leave work at work. Besides, unwinding gives you a clearer head. That means, not watching shows about the wonders of the human brain on your off time. No.” Kiernan switched the television off. “Let’s listen to music instead. What do you like?”
“A little of everything. Jazz, rock, and R&B.”
“Okay. Are there any particular acts?”
“Not really. If it has a good beat, I’ll listen to it. Mostly in my car on the way to work, occasionally when I work out.”
“Ah.” Kiernan grabbed Gideon’s phone. “I see some good things on here.” He tapped the screen.
“Do you listen to our music on your planet?”
“Sure. Some of it is umm, well, interesting, but a lot of it is good. We especially love Beyonce.”
“Yes, I remember why.” Gideon still couldn’t believe that, but anything was possible.
“There are others, but I feel as if I’d be, how do you say, dropping names?”
Gideon snickered. “Its’s fine. I’ll take your word for it.”
“Good, because while I support their decisions to come to Earth, I’m not happy about it. We Necetune have a lot of pride and leaving for good is a betrayal to our society.”
“But they didn’t. They only wanted to live longer.”
“Yes, well.” Kiernan shrugged. “If only we could figure out to lengthen our lives without coming to Earth. The scientists try, but again, it all depends if some wish to pick up the work that another left behind.”
“Well, maybe you should. If you stayed here, you could do that research then take it back to them.”
“I’m no scientist, Gideon.”
“No but it doesn’t mean you couldn’t put in the work to make discoveries for your people. Just a thought.” Gideon said and stretched his arms over his head. “I’m kind of tired.”
“Oh Goddess, Doctor. You’re not an old man.”
“No, but I am tired. That sleep I had last night was amazing. I want more of that kind.”
Kiernan rolled his eyes. “Alright fine. I suppose having fun isn’t in your plans tonight so we can turn in.”
“You don’t have to.” Gideon got up from the couch. “You’re welcome to stay up, listen to music, watch television…”
“It wouldn’t be fun alone.” Kiernan said sounding a little down.
Gideon stopped the music on his phone. “Guess you’re right. Well, um, goodnight?”
“Nite, Doctor.”
Gideon rubbed Kiernan’s shoulder and walked away. As much as a part of him wanted to keep Kiernan company, Gideon wasn’t awake enough nor did he want to be, fearing he’d want to do more with this man.
Alien or not, Kiernan was attractive, smart, and likeable. All qualities he’d love to have in a man.
Maybe pushing him to stay wasn’t the greatest of ideas, but in the back of his mind, he kind of hoped Kiernan would give them a chance to know each other.
The following morning, Gideon had breakfast alone then showered.
When Kiernan appeared, he reiterated how much he wanted to go to the amusement park. Although that wasn’t something he enjoyed, Gideon relented and drove them to a place closer to Los Angeles.
Thankfully, the heat stayed away, leveling out at 82 degrees. There was rain in the forecast, but Gideon figured they’d be done by the time it started.
Nothing worse than getting caught in a rainstorm in a place with little to no shelter.
When G
ideon and Kiernan arrived, the park was packed. Lines for rides, especially the rollercoasters and ferris wheel stretched from one end to the other.
“And now you know why going to the amusement park and the movies might not happen today.” Gideon complained as they took tiny steps while standing in line.
Kiernan slurped from his icy drink. “Perhaps not, but we can try. Don’t be such a party pooper. You sure you don’t want any of this? It’s really good.”
“Nah. I’m still full. You probably should’ve waited to drink that since… oh wait. Nevermind.” Gideon was about to mention how Kiernan might have an upset stomach during the ride, but then he remembered his companion wasn’t human.
“I’ll be fine.” Kiernan said, finishing it. I loved the cherry flavor. Maybe I’ll try the blueberry next.”
Gideon chuckled. “Did you notice your tongue?”
Kiernan cocked an eyebrow. “My tongue?”
“Yeah. Those drinks make your tongue change color.” Gideon plucked his phone from his pocket and turned on selfie mode. “Here look.” He handed it to Kiernan.
Kiernan accepted the phone. His eyes widened. “Wow. It does that?”
“The food coloring in the drink does, yes.”
Kiernan smiled and started taking selfies of himself. “I must have these when we get back to your place. Have to send them back home.”
“No problem.”
“Oh wait, let’s take a picture, hmm?” Kiernan yanked Gideon’s arm to pull him close.
Usually Gideon hated taking pictures, but he had no chance to refuse.
“Say cheese.” Kiernan held the phone up high and pushed the shutter. “Okay, one more.” Again, he pressed it. “Nice.”
Gideon laughed taking his phone back. “You’re such a ham.”
“I am a model after all.” Kiernan clasped Gideon’s hand inside his again when the line moved.
“True. They take photos of the riders. We could grab a couple of those if you’d like.” Gideon said humoring him.
“I’d love them. The more photos, the more memories I’ll have to take back with me when I leave.” Kiernan said without a hint of sadness or hesitation.
Gideon didn’t answer, feeling the hurt rising inside him.
Why Kiernan’s statement felt like a stab to gut he had no clue.
* * * *
Five o’clock rolled around.
A torrential downpour started and drove everyone out. Although Kiernan was disappointed, he was glad they’d rode everything and played a few games in between. He’d tried every Slurpee flavor until he couldn’t drink anymore. Admittedly, the sugar did give him a rush like it did with humans. No wonder Earth’s beings were so hyped up.
While Kiernan and Gideon made their way around the park, several people stopped him saying they noticed his pretty face from magazines and television. Apparently, Kiernan had been in one songstresses music video as well, prompting people to take photos with him.
Many asked if Gideon was his man, to which he replied no. A part of him hurt from stating that, but again, the doctor didn’t seem to want anything more than friendship.
“That was so fun. I suppose you were right about the museum.” Kiernan said as they hopped in the automobile. “Perhaps we can squeeze it in after shopping?”
“Sure. Where to now? Did you want to grab dinner to take home?” Gideon asked.
“We could. Can we have more sushi? Being an underwater creature, there’s no surprise that I’d like raw fish.
“Sounds good. I know another place close to the hospital. Let me just check my messages first and then we’ll go.”
“Alright.” Kiernan reached in the back of the car and pulled one of the many stuffed animals he’d won from a bag. His favorite was the octopus he thought looked a lot like him in shifter form. When he first spotted the plushie, he had to have it.
Who wouldn’t want to have a cute doll that resembled their other self?
“Okay. Well, everything is good with my patients. The specialist ran some tests on Mrs. Arrington. They won’t have any answers until late next week.”
“See? And you wanted to go in on your day off. I knew they wouldn’t need you.” Kiernan bounced the toy octopus on his lap.
“Yeah, I just felt bad about not being there. He had no clue why she’s sick, but he hopes the tests will bring back more conclusive answers.”
“I suspect she’s in good hands. You needed this to recharge. You’d been working six straight sixteen hour shifts with no break.”
“It’s because one of the doctors was on vacation. I thought once we got a handle on Mrs. Arrington, I’d do the same.”
“You should. Perhaps to an island just to get away from the hustle and bustle?”
“I’d do a staycation. No fun to go to a beautiful place alone.”
Kiernan stopped toying with the plushie. While part of him wanted to say I’ll go with you he couldn’t bring himself to do it. Although he wanted to copulate with Gideon, getting sexually attached would present an issue. “Sure, you can. Plenty of people do it all the time.” He said in a rush.
“I can stay home alone and save money.” Gideon laughed and put the car in reverse.
Kiernan glared at Gideon. “Oh no. Don’t tell me you’re a tight wad too.”
“I wouldn’t say that, but I am very cautious.” Gideon continued out of the parking lot to the exit. From the looks of how many cars were in front of them, they’d be here a while.
“Nothing wrong with that but taking an all-inclusive vacation to the islands might be just what you need. We’ll work on getting a boyfriend for you too.” Saying that stung Kiernan in the worst way.
Why did it when he’d already decided to leave?
Kiernan had to get away before he changed his mind.
Once they drove out, they stopped at the sushi place Gideon suggested. Instead of going home, Gideon decided to eat while there and order enough for leftovers.
This didn’t bother Kiernan in the slightest since sushi had already become his favorite Earthly delicacy. He must retain the recipes so he could learn to prepare it at home.
“Mhmm. That’s so good. And what are these utensils called again?”
“Chopsticks.” Gideon dipped one piece in the sauce with ease.
Meanwhile, Kiernan was having trouble picking it up without dropping it.
“You’re holding them wrong.” Gideon put his down and reached over, trying to assist Kiernan with how he placed his fingers. “Like that.”
Kiernan sensed the electricity coming from Gideon’s touch. His natural instincts were kicking in, but he had to avoid them because the doctor clearly wasn’t prepared for any intimate contact. He shook his head to get out the fog. “Oh.” Kiernan tried again but failed. He frowned, dropped the chopsticks and grabbed a fork instead.
Gideon laughed. “You’re frustrated already?”
Kiernan finished swallowing then wiped the sides of his mouth. “I don’t understand why I can’t figure out how to use those, but I won’t waste valuable time trying. Anyway, since it has stopped raining, we should find something else to do. Perhaps to a bar for some Earthly concoction?”
“I’m not a bar hopper. Why can’t we just go home and watch more movies?”
“Because that’s boring. You need interaction and so do I.”
“And you really want to go to a bar?”
“I do. Besides the night is young. Nothing fancy, just someplace to have a few drinks, maybe play pool or something? We could even scout for men if you’d like. One for you and one for me.” Kiernan was determined to copulate with someone before he left.
Gideon cocked an eyebrow.
Kiernan rose his hands. “What? Obviously, you’re not interested because you wouldn’t allow me to sleep with you last night.”
“It’s not that, its…” Gideon nibbled on his lip and dropped his gaze. He went back to eating his food.
“I get it, but again, sleeping and having sex are not the same.
Perhaps the second part will come later.”
Gideon still hadn’t looked up.
Kiernan leaned back in the chair. “Oh Gideon, don’t be so emotional, alright? We should be able to have fun as new friends. You need to loosen up a little and stop taking things so seriously. Now, we’ll finish, go home to clean up a bit, then go out. I’ll find a low key establishment to hang out at.” Kiernan tapped his transmitter, dragging his finger over the screen, perusing options. There were plenty of spots they could go to and have fun. Since drinking would be involved, he figured not to let Gideon drive. Unwinding him was the key, even if it meant getting the doctor out of his comfort zone.
Kiernan found a perfect place.
A bar close to Gideon’s house with no dress code, drink specials, and open to everyone, especially those of the LGBT community. With the relaxed atmosphere, Kiernan figured they both would have fun. Besides, Kiernan was looking forward to drinking something with alcohol.
When the hired car arrived at the bar, Kiernan got out first, eyeing the small building. It was close to the beach, had an outdoor and indoor drinking area, as well as television monitors all around. At first glance, it looked like the perfect venue to lose one’s inhibitions.
“I’ve heard of this place but didn’t visit.” Gideon said as he handed his identification to the door guard.
While Kiernan gave the man his passport, he sniffed the air. Faint smells of fried food filled his nostrils. Perhaps he’d be eating again just to try more delicacies. “Well, now’s your chance.” Kiernan placed his hand on Gideon’s arm, leading him inside. The establishment was packed with people holding drinks watching the TV’s or playing games. Others sat at small tables or at the bar chatting.
“Let’s go over there. Do you play pool?”
“I’m not good at it, but we can try.”
“Cool. Why don’t you grab the drinks and I’ll get the table?”
“Alright.” Gideon cleared his throat and walked in the opposite direction.
Love at First Clutch : A Gay Tentacle Romance Page 5