🚧Not finished yet, please come back later
2382 ONE DAY 2000 U.S.S. EXPEDITION DECK 7 CREW QUARTER
Xan sat in front of his desk, PADD on his lap. On the PADD displayed the content of a latest tech magazine. But he was not looking at it. He was looking forward, at the door. Holding the PADD tightly with his paw, he wanted to stand up but eventually gave up.
“Computer, locate Lieutenant Cole.”
“Lieutenant Cole is in Ensign Smith’s quarters on Deck 6.”
Xan sighed and raised his PADD, trying to immerse himself in the “fascinating” paper. Apparently he failed. After thinking twice, he finally stood up and left the room.
At that time, night shift was not over and most of the people on day shift already found their places to relax. There weren’t many people in the corridor. Xan got into the empty turbolift and ordered “Deck 6”. The turbolift arrived at Deck 6 seconds later. Before the door reopened, Xan thought, “If I arrived just in time to meet Cole coming back, that would be a relief.” However, he was a little disappointed to find another empty corridor.
Standing in front of the door of Smith’s room, Xan hesitated. Perhaps I can pretend to ask Cole a question before deciding whether I’ll join them, he thought. But then why wouldn’t I use combadge? Forget about it, you are already here. The doorbell chimed as Xan pressed on the control panel of the door. His heartbeat quickened.
“Who is it?”
“I’m Xan.”
“Come in.”
The door opened. Xan walked in nervously, still carrying the PADD in his paw. 4 people, including Cole, sat before a round table with piles of poker chips, each holding some cards.
“Is something wrong?”
“No. I’m ugh… just wondering if I could join you.”
“Of course. This round will end soon. Take a seat.”
Xan sat down and opened his PADD.
“Oh, Xan, don’t tell me you brought your work to the poker table.”
“No, I just want to find some information about poker game.”
“There’s no need for that. The rule is very simple.”