Friday, November 28, 2038

6 : 01 p.m.

"Not really. New Jericho is doing fine. You should come visit some time. Have you been here since the revolution?" Connor forced a laugh. "No, sorry, I've been busy. Is that what you called to ask?" There was some noise in the background. He recognized the voices of North and Simon. They sounded somewhat stressed. "Is there something wrong?" Connor asked. A moment later Markus responded. "There was just an injured android." "Oh. Alright. I'll leave you be so you can tend to them." Connor said, trying to get out of the conversation. "Oh no, it's fine. I was going to invite you to New Jericho. I planned a dinner party with Simon, Josh, and North. Would you like to come?"

Connor stood, unsure. He couldn't go. He couldn't go. "Uh.. When is it?" He asked, stalling. He needed to build up his excuse. His lie. "It's on the first December." He replied.

"I'm very sorry, I already agreed to go with Hank to one of his friends' parties. I apologize that I must decline your invitation." Markus paused for a moment but then quickly responded. "Oh, it's alright. I hope you and Hank enjoy the party." Markus's voice was almost always calm. It was always somewhat emotionless, aside for cheerfulness. Because of this, Connor couldn't tell whether he believed it or not. This only worsened the bad feeling he had, however if Markus knew he let him go. They exchanged their goodbyes, and Markus hung up.

"Connor? Connor! What the fuck are you doing?" Hank called. Connor turned to him. "I apologize, lieutenant. I received a call from Markus." Hank muttered something under his breathe, and Connor, with the bad feeling he recalled as guilt, mixed with shame as he asked "Hey, uh, Hank?" Hank turned to him, waiting for his question. "Do you, happen to have planned to go to a party on December the first?" Hank looked at him. "Why would I? Why are you even asking?" Hank responded, his face showing a mix of confusion.

"Then, … how would you like to go take a night out on the town then?" Connor asked, ignoring the lieutenant's second question. "Connor, I would prefer staying home and getting drunk." Connor ignored that comment and offered "We could go to Jimmy's bar. I'll only let you drink so much though." Hank sighed. He could tell this was more for Connor than it was for him, or 'a night out'. So he groaned slightly and agreed.