Well, there was New Year's Eve.... [Which is nearly six months ago now. Life on the barge simply isn't geared toward formal dating. Alexander really isn't either. Most of the time, she doesn't mind. A nice date once in a while would be nice but they get to spend as much time together as they wish and that's what really matters.

She almost startles at Allison's gasp, thinking something bad was to follow. She relaxes with a laugh, however, when the young lady starts planning a date for them.]

You might want to get the okay from Alexander before you get too far in your plans. [She's not entirely serious. They both know there's little chance he would refuse a request from Allison. He might groan and grumble about it but it's damn near a certainty he'd give in.

Whether the date ever happens, however, she is genuinely touched. She knows very well how fortunate she is to be among people like Allison who don't even think to judge Alexander for being with Venus. She knows it would likely be much more difficult at home and she is grateful for the support he and their relationship have received.]

You really don't have to go to all that bother. I am grateful, however. Really, you have no idea how much it means to me.