Lost Time Incident

"Some of the aliens... well, keep in mind that while they've become fluent in English, they still have a tendency to translate some of their own idioms literally. So just... give them the benefit of the doubt."

--

The alien turned towards him, tapping the table with its flipper in approval. "Very good, Terrence. I have a great fondness for you. You are made of nothing but nutrients."

Terrance's earpiece buzzed: "Uh, Terrence, if I could just clarify... you know the saying 'you're made out of awesome'? Or you might say to a child 'I love you so much, I could just eat you up.' That's where the comment is coming from."

"Got it." Terrence still found his eyes drawn to the rows upon rows of sharp teeth that the alien's lips weren't designed to cover. He reminded himself again that the display of teeth was not a smile, was not a sign of aggression... they just always showed their teeth just like he always showed the hair on his head. But it was hard when every time you helped them, they said they wanted to eat you.