Question: What is it about Hell, Jed?

Intermundia, the space between the worlds. I like it, doc. You've been playing with my dictionary, haven't you?

Since we're dealing with frustrated women here, I'll play along. For now.

And yes, let me get straight to the point. I like her. Very much. The thing about Elena--she's fearless about her nakedness. It's as if she has nothing to hide. We both know that's a universal improbability when it comes to operatives like us; we all have something to hide.

I like her naked. Very much. But I want more than what I see. How far would she let me strip her, layer by layer, until I....

Do you think a woman can hide that deep from a man? The way Elena moves her hips. The way she rubs the side of her nose when she's thinking. The things she do when she is herself. Intriguing, isn't it? Take an operative out of the field for two years, and certain habits reappear. So what is inside her that makes me feel so good when I'm inside her?

Blushing, doc? I didn't mean it that way, although physical intimacy with her takes the edge off like no one else can.

(pause)

And what if I do find that essence that is Elena Rostova...what then? That's a question for which I need an answer. I think I've talked enough for now to fill up that little space between your world and mine.

Incipit Vita Nuova, doc, as Dante would say, in his long-winded style. One of my favorite books, actually. (smiles knowingly)

--JED