He always wants a pencil. Sky prefers pens, though, it’s more professional, but they end up building the habit of always having a pencil with them, just in case. One might think working next to a busy shopping mall would mean he could just get one, but for some reason he always forgot and so asked Sky for one.
It’s not that Sky minds, really, although at one point in time, it almost feels like it became an inside joke between the two of them. See, Sky could have foreseen whatever’s behind it, but their personal work policy of no magic in the office made it as if they were ignorant of this man’s reasons to always ask them.
In short, Sky doesn’t understand. Despite all the study Sky has done on human behaviour, there is still much they are to learn about social interaction and social cues.
On a certain Wednesday, through some universe conspiracy, Sky doesn’t have a pencil with them. As on most mornings, Aero walks into the office and sits down at his desk preparing for the day’s meetings and work. Going through some of their work material for today, he approached Sky to confirm a thing or two. Sky sensing an approaching body put down the file they were studying and looked up.
“Oh, Aero,” they exclaim, “Good morning, I’m afraid I don’t have a pencil today.”
“Ah, it’s okay, Sky. I only wanted to check some notes with you.” Aero politely responds, avoiding Sky’s gaze.
Sky blinks, and nods, “Ah. Sure, let’s have a look, then.” They spend the next few minutes going over some case notes, both so engrossed in their work they do not notice the looks cast by other lawyers passing by.
Aero nods through as Sky rattles on about the work for the day, and thanks them before going back to his table. Sarah, a senior associate, stops by Sky’s desk to check in. Sky talks her through on their job desk for the day, and leaves the room for their first meeting that morning, leaving Aero still immersed in his documents on his desk. David, one of the partners of Boring Law Firm, leads the morning’s meeting and assigns two new cases to some senior associates to organise and distribute the workload.
“Sky, you will take charge of this one, and Aero will support you.” Sarah said, handing over the case file to Sky. Happy to have more work Sky graciously receives the case briefing from a mischievous looking Sarah. Oblivious, Sky thanks their superior and walks back to their office to discuss the newly assigned case with Aero.
As Sky leaves the meeting room they walk over to Aero’s desk and tap him on the shoulder.
“Here’s the new case. A man was killed, the defendant claims it was self defense, and you know the drill. Let’s go to interviews.” Sky instructs, already moving to grab their bag and coat. Aero, still startled by Sky’s sudden interruption, quickly gathers his things and follows Sky out.
The two of them leave the office side by side, blissfully unaware of the knowing stares and smiles of the people surrounding them, still wondering how much more time it will take for them to notice the elephant in the room.
