Chapter Text
"So, what do we say to the destruction of the Metacat?"
I sigh. "Well, it's a pity she passed away. But: she had a remarkable exit."
You scrutinise me intently. "Yeah, but do you buy Simon saying it was all for show?"
"No. Not really."
The corners of your mouth twitch as if you're about to grin, a mischievous look in your eyes.
"Can I tell you something, Jonathan?"
Go ahead, anything that gets me closer to Malcolms killer is fine with me.
"Since you seemed so enamoured with that cat, I was toying with the idea of buying it for you."
Okay. I wasn't expecting that and honestly, you're embarrassing me. At the same time, I wonder what this gesture is about? If this gesture came from someone else, I would think it was a haughty attempt to show off their full wallet.
But you are already past that point... aren't you?
"Don't worry Jonathan, I realised myself that the gesture might have been a bit exaggerated, but well... for a moment I let myself get carried away."
In my mind's eye I see all the women I left behind: Candace, Beck, Love,... and what I was willing to do for them. How far I went.
"Yes, I know exactly what you mean."
And at the same time I see you, I am trying to decipher you, Rhys.
Who are you?
"Relax. I just wanted to do something nice. No ulterior motives."
When you tell someone to relax, it's usually an alarm signal.
But I actually buy that you were just trying to do something nice.
But the question is: why?
Oh, you're getting close.
"On the other hand ... can you blame me for trying to get your attention? You are by far the most interesting person in this room."
You want ... attention? My attention?
Oh.
Okay.
„Figured that out last time already and was hoping to see you again. So, since the Metacat is no longer amongst us: what about dinner? In honor of the Metacat of course.“
„Well, if you look at it that way there are still some other versions of the Metacat, so she’s not really dead. Just some version of her has died.“
You have a slight smile on your face. „That’s a very philosophical approach to this piece of art. Can I still invite you to dinner?“
„Why?“
„Because I like you Jonathan and I’d appreciate your company. I think we have a lot to talk about.“
There it is. This connection I felt last time we met. What is it?
Am I just happy to finally meet someone who senses what I have been through or is there more to it?
I can’t grasp it.
„Okay. Let’s have dinner.“
I look forward to getting to know you better, Rhys.