'EDI, you OK?'
She didn't answer immediately. She didn't know if she was OK.
'I am unsure. I am not physically impaired or in imminent danger. I am…confused. I'm not used to the feeling. I do not like it.'
'Not many people enjoy being confused. What's on your mind?'
'I do not wish to bother you with my personal concerns, Shepard.'
'You've just been stood here staring into the store window, EDI. If I can help you understand anything, you only need to let me know.'
She looked back into the glass. Shepard followed her gaze. He was somewhat surprised to see her taking in a sleek, tight fitting black dress. Shoulder less, floor length and accented marvellously with glittering diamonds. Her eyes dropped.
'Is this about Joker?' EDI turned back to Shepard.
'Yes. I am confused about what Jeff expects from me. Later, we are going on our second date. I suggested we go to another comedy show, Jeff agreed and I purchased tickets with his funds. He then told me to temporarily keep his credit chit in order for me to-' She made quotation marks in the air, 'get all girly and stuff.' She lowered her hands. 'Do you believe that Jeff was subtly hinting that he would like me to alter the way I look, regarding typical feminine human beauty, to please him? I had considered adorning myself with clothing, accessories and a different hairstyle.'
Unlike EDI, Shepard did not have to think much about his response. 'I don't think Joker gave you his money so you could change yourself to impress him.'
'You do not?'
'Absolutely. Joker's just as new to a serious relationship as you are. Honestly, I think this is his way of giving you personal space, and the means to do what you want with it. My guess is that he wanted to give you some 'girly' time to prepare for your date because that's sort of what people do. They make plans together, spend time getting ready by themselves, then they meet up. Especially while they're still dating - it makes you look forward to seeing each other.
'Oh. So you are saying that Jeff is…'
'Just being a guy trying to make you happy on a date. It's nice to surprise a partner in a way you think they'd like, but there's a big difference in wanting to, and feeling as though you have to. Has this made things any better?'
Yes. I no longer feel confused. Thank you, Shepard.'
'Happy to help, EDI. I'll see you both later.'
Later that evening, EDI walked to the bench outside the comedy club where Joker was waiting for her. He had taken the liberty of trimming the stray edges of his beard, and was wearing a huge grin. As she approached him, he rose slowly from the bench and offered her his brittle arm.
'You look beautiful, EDI.'
She looked up at him, titanium eyebrows knitted together.
'But I have not changed my outer appearance.'
He slid an arm around her narrow waist, lifting one of her hands as he did so and pressing it tenderly to his lips. The corners of his eyes crinkled, and his grin turned into a gentle smile.
'I know.'
