Zero to Infinity

Over dinner, Gordon attempts to discuss why their marriage can save Mount Pioneer.

“The union of Theorians from Earth and Mount Pioneer is bad and should be eradicated from existence. They are impure,” Gordon states with a mouth full of food.

“Why?

“Because… Some Theorians shapeshift so much, they develop animalistic tendencies and struggle with a real human connection. This cannot be undone. This causes future Theorians to become more hostile and dangerous.”

Jenny tried to maintain a straight face, but Gordon could see he had lost her.

“One earth Theorian becomes betrothed to one Mount Pioneer Theorian. The two are meant to build a strong union based on the separation of life learning. Mount Pioneer Theorians learn of the history to share with the Earth Theorian so to preserve both species”. He paused to swallow some more food. “The problem is that have no business doing this. But when you and I get married, we can end the mixing of our species. We can grow and learn together. In a perfect and pure union.”

A look of concern swept over Jenny’s face. Gordon could see the fear in Jenny’s eyes as he spoke.

“Think of it, Jenny. We could end the invasions of other planets.” Clear enough, Jenny was worried that he would change his mind and rescind his promise to her.

“Why are you so afraid?” he asked her. ” I promise. I would never hurt you.”

Jenny took a deep breath and tried to explain. “It’s just... you’re a natural Theorian, and I’m... not. I’m afraid you’ll change your mind and decide that I’m not good enough for you. That Im not pure enough”. This was the first time that Jenny believed she had really made a bad decision. It was now, in this moment, she questioned her certainty in being able to change his mind.

Gordon shook his head. “That’s not true. I’m falling in love with you, Jenny. I would never want to be without you.” He reached out and took her hand, giving her a reassuring smile. “I promise you, I will never change my mind. I love you, and I want to be with you forever.

Jenny finished her meal and retreated to bed. She thought about if her decision to marry Gordon was a good idea. She also though about Zero. She missed him. Her thoughts went back to him and the things they did together. Jenny tried to sleep but just kept thinking about him. He looked strong and brawny today, coming to save her. She was just a little bit worried now that she couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt as close to Zero as he had been this morning. The way his skin glistened from the sweat. It reminded her of how he used to pick at her and then toss her a regretting smile. She had to fight back the tears. As if the wolf within her was saying he wasn’t real and not to worry. She never really knew love. Seeing Zero today made her realize she just might love him. Sure Gordon was a sweet captor, but she couldn’t shake Zero.

Jenny tossed and turned in her bed all night, her thoughts consumed with Zero. Just as she was about to drift off to sleep, she heard a noise outside her window. She sat up in bed, trying to listen carefully. And then she heard it again. It sounded like a wolf howling. She got out of bed and went over to the window, peeking out cautiously. And sure enough, she saw Zero, standing in the moonlight, howling at the sky. She couldn’t help but smile at the sight of him. She knew he was risking his life by seeing her again, but she didn’t care. She just had to be near him. She opened the window and climbed out, heading over to him.

“Zero,” she said softly, when she reached him. “I missed you.”

He turned to her, and she saw the love in his eyes. “I love you, Jenny,” he said. And then kissed her forehead.

Just then a loud bang came from the other side of the door. Startled, She jumped abruptly realizing she was dreaming. She looked at the door again and noticed the knob was turning. Dusting off her half-sleep brain, she sat completely still. Jenny realized she had no weapon nearby to save her. As the door opened, she began to panic.

“Jenny!“, yelled Zero. “Come on, we have to get you out of here!”

“What are you doing Zero. I told you I’m staying”, Jenny replied, gathering her scenes and faculties.

“You better get out of here before Gordon finds you!”

“Jenny, you are my betrothed”

“Was”, Jenny said with an attitude.

“This means I can feel your love for me too!”

“No it doesn’t!”

“Yes Jenny, Now, we must go before Gordon returns.”

“Returns?“, Jenny said, assuming he was asleep in his room.

“Do you really want to be married and live here? No Shifting to other planets or meeting new people? What about the big adventure you always wanted”, Zero said pleadingly.

“I have had enough adventure time with you!“, Jenny said folding her arms. “Now leave before Gordon finds you!”