"I'm familiar with the kind of thing you're talking about," Kinner says, "and I ain't gonna judge you for it, don't worry. I lived in a research outpost with thirty-six men. It was an open secret. Commander Garry technically wasn't supposed to allow it, but he didn't go out of his way to stop it, either. Besides, we're both dead. I reckon our old world's rules don't apply anymore. "

"I've been suspecting you were in love with Loki for a while. I wish you two the best of luck." The little cook smiles. "You two make a cute couple. If you ever decide to tie the knot, I'll be happy to handle the food." He swallows, the Adam's apple in his skinny throat trembling. "I had feelings for someone on my old team, too. Never told him...you probably know these things weren't exactly talked about."

Just as well that the old social rules are gone, in Kinner's opinion. He likes the more relaxed, judgement-free world of the Nexus.

"I'd like to get to know Harley better," he says. "She's a brave fighter, so I imagine she'd have a lot to teach me."