Slumping down and turning his back against the tub, James sighed. He gave himself a few minutes to rest. His entire life had gotten very confusing, faster than he thought possible. When he felt rested, he stood up and grabbed his phone. He didn't leave the bathroom long, even when his boss answered.
"James? You already called out today, did something else come up?", the nasaly voice of his boss betrayed the worry he tried to cover with fake irritation.
"I'm fine, Lee. I've got a...close friend in the hospital, and she panics when I'm not there. It could be all week, but I'll be working from home until she's okay.", James rubbed his neck, pacing while he spoke. He hardly noticed the alien woman poke her eyes above the water.
"Oh! Well that sounds okay, is-is your friend going to be alright?", Lee's worry showed completely now. Big softie.
"She should be but she has some pretty nasty burns on her chest and stomach.", he looked down. He felt guilty keeping some of the truth from Lee.
"Oh, God. That sounds painful... I'll let you go then, we'll unlock your login so your projects are open for you."
"Thanks, Lee."
"Any time, James. Thanks for calling."
Lee hung up first, and James sighed. He'd have to think of a good way to balance work and taking care of an injured alien. It wouldn't be as hard if she could communicate, he guessed. At least it would make feedback possible.
All that was left was to tell Sally not to come over. He'd already told one person his "friend" had to go to the hospital. Might as well keep his story straight.
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