Page 20 of Shiver
Dr. Deena nods. “Very good. The research department has been supportive?”
It’s a strange question. Almost as if he’s fishing for something. I’d much rather he ask outright. I hate trying to guess what kind of information people are seeking. “Yes,” I answer. “As much as I need them to be.”
He hums and sits back. “How’s the master’s coming?”
I nod, smiling. Because I’m obsessed with space and have been since I was a kid, I decided to go all out and also work on my master’s degree in physics. Though I plan to use the biochem doctorate for my career, I always imagined myself somehow being tied into astrophysics in some capacity. Though I haven’t found the true connection that sparks passion enough in me to pursue, I’m too busy to truly dive into finding that passion right now to worry about it.
“It’s going well. Only taking two classes, both of which are online, so they’re not interfering,” I tell him.
Dr. Deena shakes his head. “I’m truly impressed that you’re pulling off both degrees,” he says.
“If all goes as planned, I’ll finish my PhD this year and my master’s over the summer. So while I’m taking classes for both, I’m giving one more of my time than the other.”
“Good, good.” He nods. “Well, we’re a little early to really sit down and talk about your dissertation. You’ll have some preliminary papers to show me after winter break?”
“Absolutely. We can make an appointment now if you like.”
Dr. Deena smiles. “Unnecessary. I’m not that busy a man. Get in touch when you’re back on campus. We’ll plan a meeting then.”
I nod. “Thank you, Dr.”
He inclines his head. “Take care, Rakesh.”
I leave and finally allow myself a moment to glance down at my bag where my phone is still hiding out. The battery is probably dead from the notification light blinking. Reminding me I have unread messages.
Stepping outside, I pause under a tree and dig out my phone. There are not just two messages now, but eight.
Egon Wolf
I’m going to score twice tonight. ;)
Egon Wolf
Maybe more. Depends how hard I have to work for the first two.
Egon Wolf
You ever get the feeling that sometimes you’re supposed to be somewhere but you can’t remember where?
Egon Wolf
Or maybe it’s not somewhere. It’s a weird nagging feeling in the back of my mind.
Egon Wolf
Oh fuck. I am supposed to be somewhere! It’s not in my calendar.
Egon Wolf
Probably because you’re not my actual keeper of all Egon Wolf time, but ffs I was getting used to you dictating my life.
Egon Wolf
Can’t you do that? Just tell me where to be and who to be with at all times? What should I be doing?
Egon Wolf
Like seriously, all the time. Egon, go see Coach before he kicks your ass into next week!
