It was the knock on the door that Fred had been waiting for.
A seven foot tall, alien life form stands in the entrance.
‘You took your time, introducing yourself.’ was the first thing that came out of Fred’s mouth.
It’s an oddly complaining way in which to greet such a visitor but he’d known ‘we’re not alone’ for quite awhile.
‘Come in, sit down.’ he said - ‘Take a load of your appendages.’
Hard to judge alien expressions so he couldn’t tell if the alien was offended or cared.
‘What can I do for you?’
‘Come to tell you that the planet’s not yours. ..... it’s why we haven’t landed on the White House lawn.’ The alien paused.
‘It’s not like you’re being evicted but the Universe is electric and swarms with life. Your sun is a lightbulb and some species here are the equivalent of cosmic electricians just doing their business. Nothing to do with you. Some are tourists. Some with sinister intention and some who fight that inclination.’
Fred drew breath, ‘So why tell me?’
‘I didn’t intend to...’ replied the alien, ‘ I was looking for your next door neighbour.’
It was difficult for Fred - getting to sleep that night.