Page 25 of Testing the Kot'oll Officer

Maybe he has been playing along. A handsome one like him who has a good and well-respected job won't care about someone like me.

Even though I like working here, being a bartender isn't the most respected role. Beings think that someone like me has shady business somewhere. Or I'm just here to flirt with everyone taking a seat on the stools, never serious about anything.

But I don't. While I enjoy chatting and banter, I'm not very flirtatious.

"Hi, Julie, how are you?"

I grit my teeth when I realize Targoth is here again. With the creepy grin on his face, he hasn't learned his lesson. Maybe he's here as soon as he figured out that Vatok isn't around. I plaster on my professional smile, reminding myself that this is part of the job. "I’m great, Targoth! What can I get for you tonight?" My tone is light, but internally I’m bracing for his classic attempts to charm me.

He leans on the bar, his scales shimmering under the neon lights. "How about that drink I suggested the other night? Something special?"

“Sure, I can whip you up something unique.” How do I keep the conversation moving without inviting more of his unwelcome advances? I turn to the shelves, reaching for a bottle of Zalorian spice-infused liquor while glancing toward the entrance, half-hoping to catch a glimpse of Vatok walking in. Though I know he's not going to be here when his shift will stretch all the way through the evening.

“You know,” Targoth continues, “if you'd just give me a chance, I could show you the very best that the universe has to offer. Forget about that kot'oll you think is so great. I could treat you much better.”

I set the bottle down a little harder than intended. “Targoth, listen. I’m not interested, okay? You're nice and all, but I like my current situation just fine.” I straighten up, trying to project confidence despite the creeping discomfort in my stomach.

He smirks, leaning closer, “But what does he really offer? A boring routine? Rules, regulations—”

"My relationship isn't your business."

His expression falters for just a moment before he quickly masks it with his usual smirk. “You think you know him, but what do you really know?”

“More than you think,” I shoot back. “Unlike some patrons, he actually respects me.”

Targoth’s brow furrows slightly, his bravado wavering. “Is that so? Respect doesn’t fill your stomach or get you the best seats at the Nightglow Festival.”

Vatok's never going to one of those; he doesn't feel like the kind of being who loves noisy places. The irony stings, but I won’t let him rattle me. “And a bad attitude certainly won’t endear you to anyone either. If you don’t mind, I have patrons who appreciate my time. I’d rather not waste it on someone who can’t take ‘no’ for an answer.” I turn my back and focus on pouring another drink, willing my unease to seep away with the steady flow of the bright, glittering liquid.

I shoot the bouncer a look. He is a big nekrozzro with horns and scales, not to mention strong arms. He catches my gaze and nods, getting ready in case I need more help.

Targoth looks around, seemingly sensing the change in the air. "Fine, just know that I'll be around." He takes his drink and leaves me alone, which I hope will last.

I keep my eyes fixed on the counter, forcing myself to breathe steadily. The laughter and chatter of the bar swirl around, creating an illusion of comfort, but without Vatok's imposing presence nearby, the weight of the evening presses down harder on my shoulders.

The crowd of patrons ebbs and flows, and I finally take a moment to regroup as I serve a couple of friendly patrons at the far end. They’re genuine, laughing and enjoying each other’s company; the type of beings who remind me why I love this job despite the drama.

I lean in, pouring them each a Nebula Fizz, enjoying the lightness of the moment wash over me. “So, what are your plans tonight? Any adventures on the horizon?” I ask, prompting their eager tales about a recent trip to Utta, an exotic planet shimmering with ambitious nightlife and strange culinary delights.

As they share stories that evoke warmth, there's a bittersweet twinge. My mind drifts back to Vatok, to his gentle smirk and the way his eyes light up when we banter. Does he feel the same pull? These thoughts grow heavier with each passing moment that Targoth's smirking face lingers in my mind.

Maybe I shouldn't waste Vatok's time. He's probably around because he's a nice guy who truly wanted to help and make sure I'll be fine. I'm stronger than needing protection left and right. He doesn't have to be here when he can be out there getting to know a female of his choice. I...

Even though I'd want to give our relationship a real try, maybe I shouldn't. We shouldn't.

The evening is long. When I can finally catch my breath, my shift is almost over. I take one last glance around the bar, surveying the remnants of the night: crumpled napkins, half-empty glasses, and laughter that now echoes faintly in my ears. The weight of the day settles on my shoulders, making it tempting to head home early. I lean back on my stool, allowing my tired body to relax for a moment.

But my phone buzzes, jolting me from my thoughts.

“Julie.” Vatok’s voice comes, deep and stern. “I hope I’m not interrupting. I... wanted to check in.”

“Hey, Vatok. Not at all, I was just winding down for the night.”

His tone sends a swirl in my stomach, and I sit a bit straighter on my stool. It feels like something bad's about to happen.

“I’ve been meaning to talk to you about something,” he continues, and a knot forms in my stomach. “With work being so demanding lately... and all the crazy shifts, I think it’s best if we... adjust how we interact for a while.”

“Adjust? What do you mean?” I don't like that word.

---