Chapter 4
Rei stood in the lift down to the lower levels of Central Dogma. She was on her way to another appointment with Dr. Akagi. They were continuing to scan her and load her personality into the dummy plugs. Rei entered the lab and found the large tube that she had become accustomed to being in every week. Dr. Akagi was waiting for her.
"You're late, Rei," she said impatiently.
"I apologize," Rei said, "I was having lunch with Shinji."
"With Shinji?" Ritsuko repeated, stunned, "What were you doing eating lunch with him?"
"He is my friend, doctor," Rei said, "Am I not allowed having friends?"
"Let's just continue where we left off the last time," Ritsuko said briskly, "You know what to do, Rei."
"Yes ma'am," Rei said.
Rei removed her clothing and climbed into the tube. The tube filled with LCL and suspended Rei above the base of the tube. Rei closed her eyes and relaxed. It would be about two hours before she could go anywhere or do anything else. Her thoughts drifted back to Shinji.
He has a presence that is far different from the Commander's, she thought, The Commander creates an aura of cold indifference and strict command. Shinji creates a much gentler atmosphere around him. He is still firm and set in his beliefs, but he has a more compassionate side.
Rei was unable to keep her thoughts on the task at hand for the duration of the test. When the time was up, Ritsuko was very angry with Rei.
"Why are these readings so abnormal?" she demanded, "What's wrong with you, Rei?"
"I am well, thank you, doctor," Rei replied coolly. Then, she turned around and left the lab.
Rei went directly back to her apartment and lay down on her bed. As the blue-haired girl stared at her wall, her thoughts returned to Shinji.
Why do I keep thinking about Shinji, she wondered, is it because he said that he loves me? Why do those words haunt me? Right now, the Commander needs me. I cannot disobey him. But when he no longer needs me, what then? Will he discard me? Will he abandon me as he did Shinji? What is this feeling? Is this fear? Am I afraid of being alone; of being discarded? Shinji has been there for me many times. He has always gone out of his way to show me courtesy and kindness. I…appreciate him for that… Is this what love feels like?
Rei picked up her phone and dialed Shinji's number.
A.N.: Sorry, this chapter still ended up being really short.