NanoSteps Brainstorming 2 - Stepping Out

[Bob Schroeck]

"You're aware of the pseudonym she uses for you in her diary?"  I asked.

"'Miss Girdle Fitz-Snugglie'?  Clark told me one time when he was annoyed with her, thinking it would upset me."  She smiled fondly.  "Actually, I found it terribly sweet that Poddy's so concerned about my reputation when I'm considered little more than a scarlet woman in most circles these days.  That I only got what I deserved when..."  She trailed off thoughtfully.

I nodded knowingly.  "This era's embrace of values practically out of the 1950s can't help.  I'd note that these things go in cycles, but the pendulum probably won't swing fast enough to be of any use to you.  At least in the short term."

"True enough," she sighed.  "Still, that sweet child ignored all the talk and befriended me at the lowest point in my life.  I will never forget that."

"Things are getting better for you now?"

"Oh, certainly!  Venusberg has been a wonderful opportunity for a fresh start."  Then she giggled.  "My astounding resemblance to the glamorous Miss Fitz-Snugglie has served me in good stead.  While my salary as a blackjack dealer by itself is barely enough to live on, the tips I've gotten for being a friendly 'celebrity look-alike' are already nearly one-quarter of what I need to buy my first share of Venus Corp stock."

I whistled appreciatively.  "Not bad.  Doesn't hurt that you've made the acquaintance of Dexter Cunha at Poddy's bedside, either."

She giggled again.  "I think he and his father were both impressed with how protective I am of Poddy and her virtue.  Dexter commented how nothing in my public image suggested I had so much 'Momma Bear' in me."  She made a lazy clawing gesture in my direction and, smiling, added, "Grrrr!"

I threw my head back and laughed.  "You are a woman of far greater depth and complexity than anyone knows, Miss Fitz-Snugglie." 

"Oh, please," she said with a mock-haughty air.  "You may call me 'Girdie'."

"Even in public?" I asked puckishly.  "Imagine the talk that would cause."

Spoiler

-- Podkayne of Mars by Robert A. Heinlein

-- Bob
---------
Then the horns kicked in...
...and my shoes began to squeak.