video; @khaalida

[grievances]

I have questions.

( the woman in the video sounds as thrilled as she looks, golden eyes staring at the phone screen as if it personally offended her, the glowing lines along her dark skin pulsing faint and rhythmic. )

What is the minimum amount of time one must touch another, and what will happen if it is not met?

( she pauses. Sighs. Better to ask now than desperately need it later.) And if the consequences are dire, whom might offer to aid me when the time comes?

Comments

[grievances]

( Unsure. )

No one is so selfless. Surely you want something beyond just...touching a stranger for their benefit.

[warmwelcomes]

I really don't anything... Plus, it's a simple thing to ask for. But if it would make you feel better, then... Hmmm. Maybe in exchange, you could swing by the Music Club sometime and listen to us play! It'd be nice to get some feedback on what we're doing from an outside perspective.

... Once the club is up and running, of course. Hahaha.

[grievances]

( It was far less about 'feeling better' and more about not wanting to owe someone something, just in case he inevitably decided that touching her hand for five seconds every couple of days with zero payoff wasn't worth it. How unfortunate she is the way she is. )

I... suppose that will suffice. In the meantime, how shall we arrange our meetings? If you have a specific place you wish to rendezvous, by all means.

[warmwelcomes]

Sounds great! I'm sure the others will appreciate having someone to come by and listen from time to time, too!

[That said, hmmm.]

I'm fine with anytime, anywhere. If you'd like, you're welcome to visit my apartment. I can have some tea and snacks prepared for you, as well! And any other requests, if you have them.

[grievances]

( Khaalida was silent for a moment, the glowing lines sharply set upon her cheeks pulsating; fading; then lighting up again. )

Tea will suffice. I do not intend to be with you for longer than necessary. I am not ideal company anyway, and you seem the type to have plenty of friends for more exciting affairs. ( it's meant to sound like a compliment, but her monotone might suggest otherwise. ) Where is your apartment?

[warmwelcomes]

It's [address here]!

[As for the comment, he doesn't really consider if it's a compliment or otherwise; just a normal statement to him. But the part about not being ideal company?]

But you shouldn't say that! At the very least, I'm interested in getting to know you a little better. Now that I think about it, I didn't even introduce myself, did I...? I'm Kalim Al-Asim! It's a bit late to say it, but it's nice to meet you!

Wanna switch to action or handwave? I'm down for whatever.

[grievances]

( The well of regret runs deep, and yet Khaalida does not make any further objections. )

Khaalida. ( a beat. ) I will be over shortly.