{"id":20573,"date":"2021-03-17T20:00:34","date_gmt":"2021-03-18T01:00:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/?p=20573"},"modified":"2023-01-19T11:53:03","modified_gmt":"2023-01-19T17:53:03","slug":"chapter-5-considerations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/2021\/03\/17\/chapter-5-considerations\/","title":{"rendered":"Chapter 5: Considerations"},"content":{"rendered":"

Six Months Ago<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Flossie, one of the receptionists at Dr. Wexford\u2019s clinic, was at her desk, hoof paused over the phone, a distressed look on her face. Her discomfiture was so apparent that Thomas, passing through, stopped and asked what was wrong.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat event planner Gwen keeps calling for Dr. Wexford–<\/span>he<\/span><\/i> refuses to talk to her, and <\/span>she<\/span><\/i> won\u2019t give up!\u201d Flossie\u2019s pitch steadily increased as she explained her dilemma.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas sighed. Everyone seemed to be wrapped up in plans centered around next week\u2019s reception at the university in honor of Dr. Wexford, who was receiving the prestigious Bannister Award. Dr. Wexford wanted a hoof in every last detail to make sure his preferences were catered to, which led to friction between the event staff and Wexford\u2019s office.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’ll talk to her,\u201d Thomas offered. He had worked with Gwen frequently through the years on conference-related matters, as her office frequently contracted for university events.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWould you? That would be wonderful,\u201d Flossie gushed. \u201cShe\u2019s on line five.\u201d She promptly turned her attention to something else on her desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas continued down the hall and into his office, setting the phone on speaker mode so that he had two hooves to flip through the pile of mail on his desk. A supply catalog and internet services were the offerings today. Plus another ad from some foundation that was always hounding him with career opportunities…<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDr. Fairfax, hi,\u201d Gwen said after he answered, irritation evident in her voice. \u201cI was <\/span>trying<\/span><\/i> to reach Dr. Wexford.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not available,\u201d Thomas said patiently. \u201cCan I help?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf he won\u2019t talk to me\u2026 fine.\u201d Gwen sighed deeply. \u201cI was just informed by the caterer that Dr. Wexford attempted to change the dessert order. He can<\/span>not<\/span><\/i> do that! For Preuben chocolate cake, <\/span>of all things<\/span><\/i>!\u201d she spat with distaste.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm\u2026 okay,\u201d Thomas said. That didn\u2019t sound terribly critical, hardly something to warrant such drama. \u201cWhatever you think is best. I’m sure it\u2019s fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt <\/span>will be<\/span><\/i> the lemon cr\u00e8me cake!\u201d Gwen huffed. \u201cIf you could let Dr. Wexford know that he is NOT authorized to change any of our orders, I would appreciate it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. I understand,\u201d Thomas said, wondering why this was even a topic that Wexford was involved in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Dr. Fairfax. I wish everyone was as reasonable as you!\u201d said Gwen before ending the call.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hanging up, Thomas realized there was someone else in the room who had slipped in over the course of the conversation. It was his little sister, Elaine, herself an aspiring veterinarian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, so I understand that you\u2019re entrusted with the real life-and-death situations these days,\u201d the white unicorn with blue hair said archly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomething like that,\u201d Thomas said, embarrassed at being caught discussing such frivolous details. \u201cIt\u2019s just this crazy reception; Wexford is micro-managing every detail\u2026 but what are you doing here?\u201d He had an uneasy feeling that he had been ignoring her–not intentionally, but there were always other things needing his attention…<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you haven’t been answering any of my messages,\u201d Elaine said pointedly, \u201cso I was just kind of wondering if you were still alive.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 I\u2019m sorry,\u201d Thomas said vaguely, absentmindedly running a hoof through his mane. \u201cI meant to reply, but\u2026\u201d He sighed. \u201cOnce this event is over, I\u2019ll pay more attention. I promise.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like you need a vacation,\u201d Elaine observed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe next year, but for now\u2026 this summer is the conference in Opalton, and after that is the MVA Annual Meeting, and Steuben says\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you wouldn\u2019t want to miss out on any of his reflected glory,\u201d Elaine scoffed. \u201cYou know he only goes to those things to be seen at the exclusive dinner meetings he gets invited to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not like that,\u201d Thomas defended his mentor. \u201cIt\u2019s necessary for\u2026 building a network of connections\u2026 and\u2026 you know,\u201d he finished lamely.<\/span><\/p>\n

Elaine dismissed that with a roll of her eyes. \u201cI never would have thought you\u2019d turn out like this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas frowned. \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook at yourself! You\u2019re an errand pony for that sleaze, Wexford,\u201d Elaine said harshly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what you have against him,\u201d Thomas said in exasperation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou <\/span>know<\/span><\/i> he\u2019s always hitting on mares,\u201d Elaine declared, \u201cand we can only guess what he gets up to in private.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cElaine!\u201d Thomas was shocked that his sister could make such inferences. \u201cHe knows how to make conversation; that\u2019s no crime,\u201d he said briskly. \u201cAs for the rest, that is unfounded speculation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSomeday you\u2019ll wake up and see\u2026\u201d Elaine trailed off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re still coming to the reception, right?\u201d Thomas said, hoping to change the flow of conversation (though every topic in mind still seemed to lead back to Wexford). Elaine had been invited by virtue of being junior board representative for the award\u2019s sponsor, the Mestruna Veterinary Association.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI might. I doubt you\u2019ll notice one way or the other,\u201d Elaine said, looking at him through narrowed eyes. \u201cAnyway, I need to go and see Dulcia. Speaking of which\u2026 you’d better not be working your wiles on her.\u201d She gave her brother a piercing look. \u201cShe’s my friend, and I don’t want to deal with the inevitable fallout.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe work well together,\u201d was all Thomas would admit to at the moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHmm,\u201d Elaine said, looking skeptical. \u201cWell, I\u2019ll see you around, I guess.\u201d She turned on her heel and left.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas sighed. In what felt like another life, he and his sister had been close. Had it really been that long ago? He would make it up to her. But for now, he had to focus on this darn reception that was turning everything topsy-turvy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He had put the dessert conversation firmly out of mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

The day of the reception, Thomas was still considering his options in regard to what date to bring. He didn\u2019t plan too far in advance for an event like this; the largely female staff of receptionists, secretaries, and technicians provided a ready pool of candidates. It was easiest to wait until the last minute and see who was available (and maybe it was vanity on his part, but it seemed the majority would <\/span>make<\/span><\/i> themselves available if given the opportunity to attend an event with the popular Dr. Fairfax).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Maybe Flossie would like to attend, Thomas considered. It would give her a chance to relax and enjoy the event after all the calls she had fielded. Actually– Thomas paused, frowning. Had he already talked to one of the girls about this the other day? He didn\u2019t remember exactly who it had been, but he promptly dismissed the fear. Even if it had been discussed, he was certain that there were no concrete plans in place.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas was about to leave his office when a pink mare with spring green hair slipped in, discreetly closing the door behind her. It shut with a poignant <\/span>click<\/span><\/i>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHere are the test results you asked for,\u201d Dulcia said, her voice sultry. While she did have some papers in hoof, instead of delivering them, she wrapped her forelegs around his neck and drew him in for a kiss. The test results fluttered to the floor, forgotten.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dulcia had a way with words like that.<\/span><\/p>\n

The mare drew back. \u201cReady for the big night?\u201d she asked, her eyes impossibly big and blue.<\/span><\/p>\n

It must have been Dulcia he was thinking of. That made sense. \u201cYes,\u201d Thomas said briskly, putting distance between them. This was pleasant, but he did have a schedule to keep. \u201cCan you be ready to leave here at 6:30?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If the abrupt change to business had jarred her, Dulcia didn\u2019t give any indication. \u201cOf course,\u201d she simpered. \u201cI\u2019m looking forward to it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, good,\u201d Thomas murmured absentmindedly, retrieving the test results and brushing past Dulcia into the hallway.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll set?\u201d Thomas asked, greeting Dulcia with a brief kiss when they met at the back door at the appointed time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dulcia beamed. \u201cYes, let\u2019s go!\u201d But as they made their way out of the door, they ran into Larkspur, another technician.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThomas! Dulcia!\u201d the golden yellow mare exclaimed, taken aback.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLarkspur? What are you doing here?\u201d Dulcia asked, edging closer to Thomas.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m <\/span>here<\/span><\/i>,\u201d Larkspur said stiffly with a glance at Thomas, \u201cbecause Dr. Fairfax invited me to the reception tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re mistaken. He asked me,\u201d Dulcia said coolly, holding her date\u2019s foreleg tightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Larkspur pinned Thomas with a sharp look. \u201cWhat did you go and do that for?\u201d she demanded. \u201cYou asked <\/span>me<\/span><\/i> yesterday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh… did I?\u201d Thomas asked uneasily. \u201cI thought that was more of an\u2026 idea,\u201d was the best explanation he could fabricate. \u201cIf nothing else came up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing else, like Dulcia?\u201d Larkspur snapped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe obviously didn\u2019t want to go with you, or he would have <\/span>remembered<\/span><\/i>,\u201d Dulcia said snidely.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about you? You just attach yourself like a <\/span>leech<\/span><\/i> at the last minute,\u201d spat Larkspur.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs if he’d choose to go with a skank like you!\u201d Dulcia scoffed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook who’s talking, Miss \u2018oh excuse me while I go put on another layer of mascara\u2019!\u201d Larkspur shot back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLadies, please!\u201d Thomas interjected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay out of this!\u201d they responded in unison, glaring at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I don\u2019t care to go with you anyway, Dr. Fairfax,\u201d Larkspur stated, turning to Thomas and ending the stalemate. \u201cPlaying the field is one thing, but you are on a whole different level. So you two have a good time, but watch out, Dulcia,\u201d she warned, \u201che just might forget <\/span>you<\/span><\/i> and go off with another mare before the night is through.\u201d Larkspur turned and stalked off into the street.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat an unpleasant filly!\u201d Dulcia sniffed. \u201cI never did like her.\u201d (From Thomas\u2019 observations, the two mares were nearly inseparable whenever their shifts overlapped.)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry about that,\u201d Thomas apologized, not sure what else to say.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure she misunderstood the whole thing,\u201d Dulcia said, willing to overlook the incident. \u201cShall we go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d said Thomas.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

The reception was being held at the Student Center on the grounds of New Pony University. The modern glass-walled building overlooked the campus pond, a native wetland habitat of extreme biodiversity that the school was inordinately proud of. Thomas and Dulcia entered the building and stopped at a check-in table inside the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh, Dr. Fairfax.\u201d It was Gwen, a peachy-orange mare with curling red hair. She handed him a lanyard with an attached name tag. \u201cAnd\u2026 I\u2019m sorry, your name is\u2026?\u201d She eyed Dulcia.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDulcia,\u201d the mare supplied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid I didn\u2019t know you would be here, Dulcia, or I would have had a badge prepared,\u201d said Gwen with a sharp look at Thomas. \u201cThat information is supposed to be supplied on the returned RSVP form.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAn oversight,\u201d Thomas apologized.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIndeed,\u201d Gwen begrudgingly agreed, hastily scrawling Dulcia\u2019s name on a blank tag.<\/span><\/p>\n

Waiters were bustling about setting up drink and hors d’oeuvres stations around the periphery of the atrium, where pre-banquet socializing would occur. A vague memory surfaced in Thomas\u2019 mind, <\/span>something<\/span><\/i> to do with the food at tonight\u2019s event that he had been responsible for, but he ultimately disregarded it as being unimportant. So, with Dulcia draped on his side, he made small talk with the other guests who were trickling in for pre-event cocktails.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a bit dull, don\u2019t you think?\u201d Dulcia said as they walked away from a retired professor and his wife. \u201cAnd we have time to kill.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas looked at her inquiringly. \u201cWhat do you suggest?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Laughing, she grabbed his hoof and pulled him down a side hallway. \u201cThere\u2019s a hidden alcove down here. We can have some time alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSubtlety is not your strong suit,\u201d Thomas said, amused. She was incorrigible.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dulcia led him into a recess under the stairs and settled into his embrace. \u201cThe other girls warned me about you, you know.\u201d She faced him and twirled a tendril of his mane.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow so?\u201d Thomas asked warily. He wasn\u2019t accustomed to much conversation in situations like this.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat you\u2019re charming but noncommittal,\u201d Dulcia stated, \u201cbrowsing the selection like a butterfly among the flowers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s unnecessarily poetic,\u201d he protested, laughing nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBack when we were foals, you hardly had time for fillies\u2026 for me, at least,\u201d she pouted. \u201cWhat do you think of me, really?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re very talented,\u201d Thomas said. The chat was getting far deeper than he was comfortable with. \u201cYour technique of administering injections is unparalleled.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not what I mean,\u201d Dulcia said, caressing his face. \u201cI know that, growing up, you only saw me as your kid sister\u2019s playmate, but those days are behind us. What do you think of me, <\/span>as a mare<\/span><\/i>?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re lovely, you\u2019re fun to be around, you… \u201c Thomas was grasping desperately at more virtues to placate her with.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you care for me?\u201d Dulcia asked point-blank.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI mean\u2026 we\u2019re friends, of course,\u201d Thomas said stiffly, wanting to be anywhere but here.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you prefer me to the other girls?\u201d she demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Dulcia, maybe this isn\u2019t the best time to talk about this,\u201d Thomas protested, extricating himself from her grasp.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t like to commit to one girl, I know.\u201d Dulcia sighed, reaching out to recapture him but dropping her foreleg as if she had thought better of it. \u201cBut we get on well together, don\u2019t we? What if–what if–\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Thomas asked, impatient to bring this to an end.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to be your steady girlfriend!\u201d Dulcia said in a rush.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas shook his head. \u201cI don\u2019t think–\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe could try it, for a month,\u201d Dulcia spoke quickly over him. \u201cIf it\u2019s not working, we\u2019ll end things; I won\u2019t make a fuss. But give me a chance! We could be happy together!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cListen, Dulcia\u2026\u201d Thomas searchd for the words. \u201cYou\u2019re a wonderful mare, but\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Getting her nerve back, Dulcia closed the distance between them, and kissed him. \u201cDoes that mean anything, anything at all?\u201d she asked, drawing back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I like, uh, spending time with you, but\u2026\u201d Thomas couldn\u2019t give her the answer she wanted. Wexford had told him to be on guard for this sort of theatrics–<\/span>don\u2019t let them get the upper hoof<\/span><\/i>, he always said. <\/span>Hold your ground. Keep your freedom. <\/span><\/i>And Thomas really didn\u2019t want to take the time to test an exclusive relationship.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I\u2019m no better or worse than the others, is that it?\u201d Dulcia said bitterly, turning away. \u201cYou\u2019ll kiss me, but I might just as well be Larkspur or Flossie or–or–\u201d Her voice cracked and she couldn\u2019t continue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we should get back,\u201d Thomas said, awkwardly ending the exchange. \u201cIt\u2019s almost time for the ceremony to start.\u201d Dulcia was uncharacteristically silent, but walked with him back to the gathering without complaint.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wexford was fielding congratulations from a crowd of well-wishers; but, catching sight of Thomas, he disengaged from the group. He kept one mare close to his side as he ambled over to his employee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere you are, Thomas!\u201d Wexford\u2019s voice boomed out. \u201cQuite the event, eh?\u201d He lowered his voice. \u201cI\u2019d like you to meet one of my past interns, Dr. Cheryl Vandercorn,\u201d he introduced the unicorn mare, who was burgundy with plum hair. \u201cVery clever, went into research at Easton-Scott.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cVery kind of you to say, Steuben,\u201d Cheryl said, smiling prettily. Wexford always seemed to be on first-name basis with the mares.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDr. Fairfax here is a standout talent, much like yourself, my dear,\u201d Wexford continued. \u201cHe\u2019s my second-in-command at the clinic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAh-HEM!\u201d said Dulcia, reminding them that she was there, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEr, and this is, uh, Diane, one of my secretaries,\u201d said Wexford, clearly disinterested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy name\u2019s Dulcia,\u201d said the mare, a petulant look on her face, \u201cand I\u2019m actually a veterinary technician.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow nice,\u201d said Cheryl, but was clearly more interested in the stallion at Dulcia\u2019s side. \u201cDr. Fairfax, you have quite the elite position with Steuben.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he\u2019s been a great mentor,\u201d Thomas said, but was far more interested in her story. \u201cEaston-Scott, they\u2019re doing some breakthrough work on bioengineered cephalopods,\u201d he noted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s my project,\u201d Cheryl said, smiling smugly. \u201cWe\u2019re isolating some promising new enzymes with implications for both health and defense technology.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d Thomas was impressed. \u201cAre you still focusing on RNA editing to create more diverse protein arrays?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIndeed!\u201d Cheryl beamed. \u201cI can\u2019t share all the details, you understand. But it is exciting!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Wexford chuckled. \u201cNow, if you\u2019ll excuse me, I believe the event planner is looking for me,\u201d he said, bowing out of the conversation. \u201cI think you young ponies have this under control.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe ceremony <\/span>is<\/span><\/i> starting soon. We should really take our seats,\u201d Dulcia hinted, tugging at Thomas\u2019 foreleg.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, you\u2019re right,\u201d Cheryl said, something akin to a smirk on her face as she eyed Thomas\u2019 date.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill you sit with us, Dr. Vandercorn?\u201d Thomas quickly invited.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, call me Cheryl, please. And I\u2019d love to,\u201d she said with a warm smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dulcia scowled.<\/span><\/p>\n

They took their seats at the banquet table, Thomas between the two mares, and before long the conversation ground to a halt as everyone turned their attention to the stage at the head of the room. The ceremony that followed was exactly as dull as anticipated. The chancellor gave his introduction, complete with a projected slideshow that detailed Dr. Wexford\u2019s contributions to the field. Wexford then strolled onto stage and accepted his plaque as a matter of course. \u201cI\u2019m very pleased to accept this,\u201d he stated with pride. \u201cIt\u2019s gratifying to have one\u2019s accomplishments recognized.\u201d He had some other words in that vein to share, there was a closing round of applause, and then everyone turned their attention to dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

Cheryl was intelligent, witty, and beautiful to top it all off. She seemed very nearly perfect, and Thomas had very nearly forgotten that he had obligations to anyone else at the banquet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c…but when we checked the security camera, it turned out our culprit was one of the octopi, leaving the aquarium and propelling himself down the hallway to hurl rotten oysters at my desk!\u201d Cheryl was explaining. \u201cIsn\u2019t that amusing?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHilarious,\u201d said Thomas. He might have described it as closer to <\/span>alarming<\/span><\/i>, but what did he know? Thomas noticed his sister across the table, looking back and forth between him and Dulcia and frowning. He quickly averted his gaze.<\/span><\/p>\n

As dessert was brought out, there was an outburst at the head of the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere must be some mistake,\u201d Dr. Wexford said, frowning down at his plate. \u201cThis is supposed to be <\/span>Preuben chocolate cake<\/span><\/i>.\u201d His voice was loud and carried through the room. \u201cWhat is this lemon nonsense?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas cringed. The memory of Gwen\u2019s call came flooding back into mind. <\/span>That<\/span><\/i> was what he had forgotten. In his defense, it hadn\u2019t sounded that important. He should probably say something, but felt rooted in place. Cheryl looked at him questioningly, noting his discomfiture.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my gosh, why does he always have to be such a blowhard!\u201d Dulcia said, mostly under her breath. She was clearly out-of-sorts with Wexford for introducing her incorrectly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m very sorry, but this is what was ordered by Westcliffe Events,\u201d the waiter was heard to say.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, THOSE ponies,\u201d Wexford said, pounding his hoof on the table. \u201cI will be having words with them. Gwen!\u201d He flagged down the offending pony, who was standing near the doorway, consulting with a blue unicorn. Thomas felt a pang of guilt for putting Gwen in this position; but to be honest, he was more concerned about the dressing-down he would receive when his part was revealed. Wexford lowered his voice for his conversation with Gwen, but it was clear from facial expressions and body language that neither of them was happy. At the end, Gwen stalked off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c<\/span>That pony<\/span><\/i> had the effrontery to blame you!\u201d Steuben said, approaching Thomas afterwards. \u201cYou would never condone such a travesty.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not,\u201d Thomas quickly agreed. What luck! He had gotten an easy way out. Wexford didn\u2019t believe Gwen. Who was really hurt by allowing this version of the truth to persist? Gwen had already been talked to. Dr. Wexford had a short attention span and would soon forget about the dessert. There was really no sense in complicating this further by revealing Thomas\u2019 involvement, which had been very little, really.<\/span><\/p>\n

That\u2019s what Thomas told himself, because it was easy, because it was the kind of little white lie that he had observed Dr. Wexford himself resort to countless times to save face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLemon cake, indeed!\u201d Wexford scoffed, not giving up on this pet topic of his. \u201cYou know how I feel about lemon\u2026 and chocolate.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI thought the lemon was nice,\u201d Dulcia said peevishly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, well, your judgment is lacking,\u201d Dr. Wexford said, matter-of-factly and without animosity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cChocolate <\/span>is<\/span><\/i> a much more mature flavor,\u201d Cheryl agreed with Wexford, casting a sidelong glance at Dulcia.<\/span><\/p>\n

The pink mare rolled her eyes. \u201cExcuse us a moment,\u201d she snapped, pulling Thomas away behind a large potted plant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDulcia!\u201d Thomas protested, scandalized. \u201cThat was rude.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you doing? I\u2019m your date! You\u2019re playing me for a fool!\u201d Dulcia seethed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re friends, Dulcia!\u201d Thomas hissed. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I can\u2019t offer you what you want, but that\u2019s how it is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve been leading me on all this time!\u201d she challenged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLeading you on! <\/span>You\u2019ve<\/span><\/i> been chasing <\/span>me<\/span><\/i>!\u201d he argued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you certainly haven\u2019t complained!\u201d Dulcia huffed.<\/span><\/p>\n

That was true. Thomas felt uncomfortable. \u201cListen, maybe I should just take you home–\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t bother–I\u2019ll find my own way back.\u201d With a final haughty look, Dulcia stalked off in high dudgeon.<\/span><\/p>\n

Elaine had been heading in their direction when the tiff had occurred, and cast an exasperated look at her brother, changing course and going after her friend. Thomas was sure he was going to hear more about this later, but at the moment wasn\u2019t concerned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEverything okay?\u201d Cheryl asked when Thomas returned to her side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh–yeah, it\u2019s fine. I\u2019m sorry. She was just–well, she\u2019s a little dramatic,\u201d Thomas explained it away. \u201cShe\u2019s fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was going to ask if you wanted to go out for a drink,\u201d Cheryl said coyly, \u201cbut maybe you have other things on your mind–\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d love to,\u201d he said with alacrity.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy paper on morphological predation adaptations of <\/span>Cirroteuthis muelleri <\/span><\/i>is<\/span> being published next month in Journal of Animal Science, and I\u2019m corresponding author on another about DNA polymerase action in relation to cytokines in <\/span>Histioteuthis cerasina<\/span><\/i> that\u2019s just been accepted by Ponyland Scientific,\u201d Cheryl rattled off. She had introduced Thomas to her favorite pub a few blocks away, and they were having a great time. Thomas gestured to the bartender for another round of drinks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s very impressive,\u201d Thomas said, honestly awed by the caliber of her work. Those were the top journals that every scientist vied to be featured in. \u201cYou\u2019re a credit to your institution.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, well, I do what I can,\u201d she said nonchalantly. \u201cI\u2019m sorry that I can\u2019t tell you more about my current project. Confidentiality agreements and all that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas\u2019 phone had been ringing on and off over the past half hour, but he had been trying to ignore it. Finally the nagging feeling was too much, and he looked at the screen. There were three missed calls from Elaine. She was just going to rail against him. <\/span>But<\/span><\/i>–if something really was wrong–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d Thomas asked sharply upon answering.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Dulcia!\u201d Elaine sounded hysterical. \u201cShe–she–\u201d He heard her gulping down air, and she couldn\u2019t continue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCalm down!\u201d Thomas hissed, shrugging helplessly at Cheryl. \u201cWhat happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s in the hospital!\u201d Elaine cried out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Thomas asked, dumbstruck. \u201cWhat\u2026 happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTryptophan–just to take the edge off,\u201d Elaine sobbed. \u201cI told her that was enough, but–she passed out–\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A chill ran down Thomas\u2019 spine. He had no idea Dulcia (or Elaine, for that matter) had any connection with that illicit substance. \u201cOkay, just–just stay calm,\u201d he said, distressed. \u201cWhere are you? I\u2019ll meet you.\u201d He hung up and shook his head at Cheryl. \u201cI\u2019m afraid I have to go,\u201d he said. \u201cMy sister\u2019s friend was in an… accident.\u201d He neglected to mention that it was also his date from earlier that evening.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no!\u201d Cheryl was appropriately dismayed. \u201cDo you want me to go with you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, that\u2019s fine. I think it\u2019s better if I go alone,\u201d Thomas said quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, of course,\u201d Cheryl murmured. \u201cListen, call me.\u201d She hastily scrawled numbers on a napkin. \u201cWe can have dinner sometime.\u201d With an encouraging smile, she sent him on his way.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is your fault!\u201d Elaine nearly shouted as Thomas entered the hospital waiting room. \u201cIf you hadn\u2019t been so self-absorbed–!\u201d She choked-up. \u201cYou take what you want, and don\u2019t care what you leave in your wake!\u201d Her tone lowered when she realized the desk clerks were eyeing her cautiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cElaine, what were you doing, messing with tryptophan?\u201d Thomas demanded, taking her by the shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was Dulcia\u2019s idea! I never touched it!\u201d Elaine insisted. \u201cShe only did this because <\/span>you<\/span><\/i> ditched her at the party!\u201d She sat down and crossed her forelegs, glaring at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI–I didn\u2019t know she would do this,\u201d Thomas faltered. \u201cYou can\u2019t blame me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ignored her the whole time and then sent her away!\u201d Elaine was livid. \u201cWhat would Mom think if she were here!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas winced. That was hitting low. \u201cI offered to take her home,\u201d he argued. \u201cShe refused.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you should have tried harder!\u201d Elaine snapped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow is she?\u201d Thomas asked, taking a deep breath and setting aside pettiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill unconscious, but with the amount she took\u2026 they don\u2019t know. They\u2019ve administered activated charcoal to flush out the toxins. You\u2019re such a jerk!\u201d Elaine finished eloquently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, I\u2019m here because you called me. Don\u2019t bite my head off now,\u201d Thomas maintained.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a long night waiting for news. Dulcia had family in the city, but they couldn\u2019t be reached, so Elaine would not think of leaving her friend\u2019s side. But once Dulcia\u2019s condition had stabilized, Thomas convinced Elaine to go home and get some rest. There was nothing more they could do. Elaine followed him, but said hardly a word on the walk to her apartment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Despite Thomas\u2019 admonitions to his sister, he couldn\u2019t sleep when he got home himself, with too many tangled thoughts running through his head. He caught barely enough troubled sleep to function in the morning. The garish light of day didn\u2019t bring any peace; the news from Elaine on Dulcia\u2019s condition was reassuring, but there were still many unknowns about the extent of the damage caused by the overdose. Thomas felt emotionally numb as he made his way to work.<\/span><\/p>\n

At the clinic, Wexford gave Thomas a hearty greeting. \u201cWell, did you and Cheryl have a pleasant evening?\u201d he asked conversationally.<\/span><\/p>\n

He must not have heard, Thomas realized. \u201cDulcia is in the hospital,\u201d he said, looking somber.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Clarabelle said there had been an incident with one of the fillies. A shame, but these things do happen,\u201d Wexford said, waving that concern away. \u201cShe\u2019ll be fine. She\u2019s young.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe nearly died!\u201d Thomas insisted. \u201cBecause of <\/span>me<\/span><\/i>! I hurt her feelings and treated her poorly and–\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense.\u201d Wexford was unflappably calm. \u201cI could see that she was stifling you. You did what you had to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you even know what condition she\u2019s in?\u201d Thomas snapped. \u201cDo you even care?\u201d Without waiting for an answer, he stormed off, no longer feeling at ease with Wexford\u2019s laissez faire philosophy.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was no peace to be had at work. All the support staff kept darting Thomas censorious looks. They were loyal to their own, and closed rank against him as rumors of his involvement spread. He felt like he was an object on display as they whispered amongst themselves, but what else did he deserve?<\/span><\/p>\n

In the coming days, Dulcia\u2019s condition improved, but it would be a long road to recovery. There was some lingering paralysis in her hooves that would require physical therapy, and even then…<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas thought Cheryl would be a welcome distraction, and they met for dinner the following week. But Thomas could barely focus on her banter about her research, and he wasn\u2019t at peace until he had explained the identity of the injured friend and the extent of his involvement. Cheryl was a sympathetic listener and advised him not to blame himself. But that didn\u2019t make him feel better.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they stood outside her door at the end of the evening, Cheryl tried to kiss him, but Thomas turned aside, suddenly hesitant. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d he laughed nervously. The close connection to Dulcia\u2019s accident had tainted Cheryl by association. \u201cI\u2019m just\u2026 not in a place to start something right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Cheryl squeezed his hoof. \u201cI understand,\u201d she said. \u201cFriends?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. Friends,\u201d he agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

In the days that followed, Thomas came to take a critical look at his life, and didn\u2019t like what he saw. He thought back to what had drawn him to being a veterinarian in the first place–a desire to fix things, to save lives. That wasn\u2019t his focus any more. It was public appearance, fame, and instant gratification. Wexford had influenced him far too much.<\/span><\/p>\n

He needed to get back on track, and that necessitated a change.<\/span><\/p>\n

A memory sprang unbidden to mind. There was a pretend play game he and his sister had often played called <\/span>country vet<\/span><\/i>. Neither of them had first-hoof experience with life in the country, but he and Elaine had spent countless hours roaming the family\u2019s apartment and consulting with the stuffed animals and dolls that stood in for farmers, millers, milkmaids, and the like.<\/span><\/p>\n

One evening, while Thomas was mulling over the memories of simpler times, his glance fell to some pieces of mail thoughtlessly tossed on the table, and the item on top caught his eye. It was a glossy postcard of a pastoral scene–farm buildings, green foliage, and rolling hills. Across the picture read bold text: \u201cThe Old Milk House Foundation for Economic Development is offering business grants to professionals like YOU! Be your own boss! You can’t afford NOT to take this opportunity! Call us today!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It was probably a scam. He had been seeing similar mailings for months, and he had discarded the previous ones without a thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

But now, Thomas couldn’t get it out of his mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

The following week, he received a call from an unknown number. It was a female with an unfamiliar accent, who identified herself as Ms. Ravenwood with The Old Milk House Foundation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBy now you\u2019ll have received our mailings,\u201d she said briskly. \u201cI\u2019d like to discuss the particulars of what a partnership with us could accomplish. For you, for society, for the world.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

And so the negotiations began.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

Elaine had remained chilly toward her brother after Dulcia\u2019s hospitalization, but when Thomas reached out some time later and invited her to lunch, she begrudgingly agreed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In their younger days, Elaine had maintained a collection of plush cats; and whenever a gift was needed, or an apology extended, it had been a tradition to offer her a new one. Thomas hadn\u2019t given her a new cat in quite some time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Elaine reluctantly took the orange tabby kitten that he offered, but he could tell she was pleased by the sparkle in her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow many dates did you stand up to make it here?\u201d she asked bluntly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas ignored the dig, and instead launched into explaining the Foundation\u2019s offer to move across the country to the opposite coast and open a clinic in the town of Misty Hollow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA country vet, huh?\u201d Elaine looked skeptical. \u201cI thought you’d turned your back on that idea long ago. Can you really walk away from all the fame and glory? Give up being Wexford\u2019s pet?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that really all I am?\u201d Thomas had realized that himself, but it was still lowering to realize that it was so apparent to others.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGosh, yes,\u201d Elaine said. \u201cEveryone knows it. They would hate you if you weren’t so naive. But–you have the potential to be more. To be your own pony.\u201d She looked him earnestly in the eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if he\u2019s already influenced me too much?\u201d Thomas wondered aloud. \u201cWhat if I can\u2019t go back?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c<\/span>You<\/span><\/i> have integrity,\u201d Elaine said, \u201ceven if you\u2019ve forgotten it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWill you come and be my assistant in the country?\u201d he asked cajolingly as they prepared to go their separate ways after the meal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEqual partners,\u201d she countered. \u201cSomeone’s going to need to keep the saucy milkmaids in line. You never could see through their wiles.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

Ms. Ravenwood was persuasive. The offer she laid out was almost too good to be true, but ultimately Thomas agreed and papers were signed (electronically, as they never met face-to-face).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas kept all these negotiations secret from his current boss, but eventually had to let Wexford in on his plans.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you talking about? Is this a joke?\u201d Wexford demanded, standing up from behind his desk. \u201cYou\u2019d be a fool to carry through on what you\u2019re outlining. Why didn\u2019t you tell me sooner? I could have set you straight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve re-evaluated my life, and I need a change,\u201d Thomas insisted. \u201cAnd this contract is for three years, not the rest of my life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a bad decision,\u201d Wexford warned. \u201cI can\u2019t guarantee that your position will be waiting for you when you wake up and realize this is a mistake.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can live with that,\u201d Thomas said, closing the discussion.<\/span><\/p>\n

* * *<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas was even more sure of his decision when, not long after, an interview with a former intern was published, claiming that Wexford had made inappropriate advances. The media storm that followed did serve to divert Wexford\u2019s attention from Thomas\u2019 imminent departure; the senior doctor had enough of his own troubles to focus on.<\/span><\/p>\n

Is that the future that would have awaited him as Wexford\u2019s protege, Thomas wondered as office gossip ran rampant regarding witnesses and lawsuits and settlements. It was just as well to be escaping that tempest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Finally, it was Thomas\u2019 last day of work.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Wexford stared at him from across his desk. \u201cWell, this is it,\u201d he said bluntly. \u201cYou haven’t changed your mind?\u201d He didn\u2019t wait for an answer, but continued, \u201cI still think this is a terrible idea. I hope for your sake I\u2019m wrong, but–\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you really one to be counseling anyone on healthy life decisions?\u201d Thomas pointed out.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t so long ago, you know, that you were playing the field yourself, availing yourself of fillies\u2019 charms,\u201d Dr. Wexford said, drawing himself up and regarding Thomas coolly. \u201cAnd yet you look down your nose at me now? The allegations are false, and it could just as easily be <\/span>you<\/span><\/i> in this situation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Thomas\u2019 blood ran cold. Wexford\u2019s words were all too true. He felt, perhaps irrationally, that distancing himself geographically from his mentor would save him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou, too, may find yourself without friends when times get tough,\u201d Wexford said with a wooden laugh. \u201cGoodbye, Dr. Fairfax.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Then Thomas was free.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Author’s notes: <\/span>This is a bit of a longer episode than most. Thank you for reading! * Tryptophan is a real biochemical, but has some different physiological effects on equines (which is entirely fantasy). We\u2019ll learn more about that later. * Dulcia was supposed to be an annoying one-off character, but alpha readers unexpectedly responded well to her, so we\u2019ll see her again in the future. I have plans for her. * The Kingdom of Preubia is introduced in this chapter under the guise of Preuben chocolate cake (a confection that likely bears little resemblance to any native dishes of Preubia). I based the name on a mis-transcription of \u201cPrussia\u201d found in my genealogical notes. (A novice error, mistaking the ess-tsett for a B!)<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Six Months Ago Flossie, one of the receptionists at Dr. Wexford\u2019s clinic, was at her desk, hoof paused over the phone, a distressed…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1071],"tags":[1115,1112,1113,1117,1110,1114,1111,1118,1116,1076,1109],"class_list":["post-20573","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-writing","tag-cheryl","tag-dulcia","tag-elaine","tag-equinox","tag-flossie","tag-gwen","tag-larkspur","tag-solstice","tag-spindrift","tag-thomas","tag-wexford"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20573","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20573"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20573\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31383,"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20573\/revisions\/31383"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20573"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20573"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fakiespaceman.com\/toyblog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20573"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}