Harry glanced at Michael’s drink. “Quite a host,” he said, without criticism in his voice. “Why don’t you offer me something? I’m serious. You can buy Virtual hospitality chips now. Bars, kitchens. All the finest stuff for your Virtual guests.”
Michael laughed. “What’s the point? None of it’s real.”
For a second his father’s eyes narrowed. “Real? Are you sure you know what I’m feeling, right now?”
“I don’t give a damn one way or the other,” said Michael calmly.
“No,” Harry said. “I believe you really don’t. Fortunately I came prepared.” He snapped his fingers and a huge globe of brandy crystallized in his open palm; Michael could almost smell its fumes. “Bit like carrying a hip flask. Well, Michael, I can’t say this is a pleasure. How do you live in this godforsaken place?”
-Timelike Infinity, Ch. 2