Shapeshifters

Just as I reached the bottom of my building, I heard Su Ying calling out to me from downstairs. “How about coming upstairs for a chat?” She was as enthusiastic as ever about having me join her. However, the words from the intern earlier that afternoon had indeed affected me. Even though she seemed well now, she had a history of mental illness, and I wasn’t sure if her past thoughts might influence her current, seemingly normal state. Of course, I didn’t believe she was deliberately teasing me with tales of underwater people. These thoughts inevitably led to a slight aversion towards her in my heart. “I have an important manuscript to write today, I don’t have time, I’m sorry,” I said, avoiding direct eye contact and refusing Su Ying’s invitation for the first time. “Oh, how long will it take?” she asked, seemingly unwilling to give up. I raised my voice, “I’m afraid I won’t have time today.” She looked visibly disappointed. Despite feeling a bit guilty, I desperately needed time to think through some issues. I had thought that conversing with someone as interested in mysterious events as Su Ying would provide insights, but now I realized it was all a waste of time, just listening to her unfounded claims about underwater people with no valuable leads.