Algae

Returning with trousers, a check shirt and some underthings, Kim was relieved to see the young man had not moved.

‘Here, put these on,’ she said. ‘You do know how to dress yourself?’ she added when he didn’t move.

‘I do, but I am comfortable like this,’ he replied.

‘I daresay you are, but I am not. In our society, people cover their bodies and I would like you to do the same. Please.’

He looked at her for a long moment, head on one side, apparently considering this. Finally he stood, took the clothes and turned his back to her modestly while he put them on. She thought this a curious thing and filed it away for later consideration. When he had finished dressing, he turned back to her and stood, apparently awaiting further instructions.

‘Please sit down. Would you like that drink now. Tea or coffee?’

He sat down in one graceful movement, once again placing his knees together, and settling his arms in his lap.

‘I am not sure about the versions of drink you mention. Our formula at the incubation facility was a blend of nutritious algae, calculated for optimum benefit to our forms.’

Would a different drink harm him? Common sense told her he had been bred to be compatible with another human, so surely normal food couldn’t hurt. And anyway, she didn’t have any of this algae to hand, so that settled the matter. 

‘I think tea would be fine. You can try it and see what you think.’ She busied herself with mugs and the teapot and quickly produced tea for both of them. He took his mug and she had to warn him to wait.

‘It might be hotter than you’re used to,’ she said, placing a restraining hand on the arm that seemed about to pour boiling liquid into his mouth.