Fringes: One of Those Days - Part 2

[melworks]

FRINGES: ONE OF THOSE DAYS - PART 2
"Is the Doctor serious?"
Astrid spoke, soto-voiced, to the Englishman's companion. The dark beauty gave Astrid a wry smile.
"I've learned that the Doctor is always serious," said Uhura. "Never more so than when he's playing the clown." She lifted the cup to her nose and inhaled the scent of fresh coffee. "I think," she continued, "it's a kind of defense mechanism."
"Like the way the Japanese smile when they give bad news?" asked Astrid.
Uhura nodded. "Something like that."
Astrid shifted on her stool, letting her gaze flit from the trio by the dissection table to the woman seated across from her. She lowered her voice. "May I ask you a question?"
Uhura studied Astrid for a moment, before nodding. "You can ask. I can't guarantee an answer."
"What's your relationship to the doctor? You don't exactly seem to be business colleagues, but you're not. . . ."
Uhura's laugh was one of pure amusement. "No. We most definitely are not."
"Then, what...?"
"It's complicated," said Uhura. "The Doctor, he saved me from a difficult situation. I'm just traveling with him, doing what I can to help him, until I can get back home."
"Oh. So, you wouldn't mind if I...."
Uhura's dark eyes widened in surprise, then crinkled with genuine warmth. "Not at all! Have at it, girl!"
Astrid ducked her head, and felt her face flush. She reached for the pot.
"More coffee?"