Welcome to Gaia! ::

Usually when Sasha wanted to be alone, she stuck to the labs or the library. Suffice it to say she didn't spend much time anywhere else; work had become something of a hobby instead of a duty. Social obligations weren't high on her list of important things to do, but sometimes she enjoyed just watching other people interact. Of course, she thought they were ridiculous more often than not - but for a few stretches of time she was allowed to breathe freely while alleviating any stress.

Today, it wasn't helping.

When Jordan sat at her table, Sasha's lips thinned. It was the only outward sign that his presence wasn't welcome. Shoving away the food she'd been rearranging on her plate for the last hour, Sasha leveled a cool, almost-indifferent look in Jordan's direction. She didn't speak a word, only watched him carefully.

Finally, one brow arched high. It spoke volumes.

What do you want?

Sasha's lips curled ever-so-slightly. Her voice was low, laced with a steeliness that hadn't been there until recently.

"Some of us are capable of it."

A pause.

"Maybe I've just realized who I really am."

She lifted her other brow.

"How can I help you today, Jordan?"

Leaning back in her chair, Sasha slipped her hands into the pockets of her jacket. Her eyes never left Jordan, gaze dipping when he lifted the coffee to his lips - following his hands up as he drank.

"I'm not the same person I used to be." She lifted a slender shoulder in a shrug. "That girl was weak and fearful." Sasha flashed a toothy smile, one that didn't quite reach her eyes, "a poor, scared little bird that lived her life seeking approval from everyone."

She shifted in her seat, looking idly pensive.

"I don't understand your reasons for apologizing," Sasha gave a thoughtful hum, canting her head to the side. Her eyes remained on his face. "What do you hope to accomplish?"

"Burned away, discarded." She waved a hand. "Set aside. Mm, no. Shattered?" Sasha shook her head. None of the phrases fit. "Outgrown?"

She liked that word. It suited how she felt about the situation.

"I wouldn't call her a casualty. I'd call her an idiot. A blind fool."

It didn't really matter. She couldn't help but feel there was some sort of ulterior motive here. Sasha pursed her lips and crossed her legs at her ankles, stretching out as comfortably as she could in the uncomfortable seat. Jordan's honesty was something she could appreciate for what it was, but she didn't trust him - not with the company that he kept.

"I don't think you could interfere if you were in a position to do so, Jordan," she hummed softly, the sound an almost catlike purr, "although I have to admit it's quite an honor to be deemed worthy," she splayed a hand across her collarbone, fingers spread, "of respect."

Her voice and actions seemed sincere, but her eyes said otherwise.

"Even though I find it hard to believe you might respect me," she continued smoothly, one brow arching slightly, "all things considered."

Sasha was mildly annoyed by the way he spoke of her as if he knew exactly what she'd experienced. It hadn't been about deciding to make a change in the way she handled herself. That choice had been abruptly ripped from her hands. Not that she cared. It was better this way.

"You're already at odds with me, Jordan. The company you keep - neither of your," she waved her fingers, "men - well, you know the story. Harrison's been hostile to me ever since I can remember, and Rep's just at odds with the entire island, now, isn't he?"

Sasha uncrossed her legs and leaned forward.

"A lot of people seem to like you. Respect you."

She tilted her head to the side.

"Do you ever feel like that could just... slip away?"

"Does it scare you?"

"Mmm."

The noise was neither one of agreement or otherwise. A neutral sound.

"Have you talked to Jerry recently?"