"Commander, the Earthling is showing an elevated heart rate, signaling possible distress."
"Is she hurt?" Reg sat up straight in his chair where he'd slumped looking for slumber, not daring to even attempt sharing his stateroom with Penny.
"I cannot tell definitely, but my auditory sensors did pick up a whimper."
"I'd better check on her then. I'll be back in a moment." Reg subconsciously knew there was nothing wrong with Penny, but Ralph had provided him with the perfect excuse to see her. And despite his vow not to touch her or think about her any further, like an addiction, he found himself unable to stay away.