For this one: You must lure a human boy in for the kill.
FEVER (any gender, mid teens through late life)
Oh dear. It's you.
Now I'm... well, I'm a little embarrassed, aren't I? I'm not properly presentable. It's really not okay for a boy your age to see me like this, when I'm still in alien form. Of course it's not alien to me. My own children find the HUMAN form scary. Can you imagine?
But my children aren't on this ship. It's only me, Shane. Yes, I heard your name. I know the names of your parents too. All the sounds travel through the air ducts. The one place your parents never thought to look. But you did. Were you looking for me? Or were you just exploring? Either way, I bet you're breaking the rules right now, aren't you? The air ducts really aren't safe for humans.
Naughty. So how about this be our secret then? No telling the parents? I don't think they're ready to know I'm on the ship. I don't think they'd treat me well. Do they treat YOU well? I sometimes hear them yelling at you. I sometimes hear them yelling at each other. Space isn't really a healthy place for humans.
You're looking a little ill yourself, Shane. I know it's hard for a human to see in here but my eyes see a flush in your cheeks. If you're sick you should let your parents know. But you're not a complainer, are you Shane? You only speak to your parents when you're very hungry. I know what that's like.
But if you knew for sure that you had a fever, you could say that. They'll believe you, if you're sure. You could be feeling much better tomorrow.
Tell you what: Let me confirm you have a fever. On your planet, they'd feel your forehead, wouldn't they? Come closer and I'll do the same.
Copyright 2016 by Matt Haynes.
If you would like to use this piece, please credit: "Courtesy of Matt Haynes and The Pulp Stage"