The Patralmador Paradox

From <I>The Patralmador Paradox</I>:</p><p>Pendleton drew a deep breath and shifted uneasily in his chair 'I know you're going to think this is very strange but please understand this is not my idea. I have to ask about your uh sexuality.</p><p>'You mean do I like boys or girls or both? Or neither?</p><p>'I'm hoping you like boys. He hurriedly added 'Not that it matters.</p><p>Sheila was laughing again 'You sound like Seinfeld.</p><p>'Who?</p><p>'Never mind. Go on with your questions.</p><p>'Do you like boys and do you enjoy sexual intercourse?</p><p>'Yes. And yes. Her tone changed and her smile disappeared 'Both of the above.</p><p>'Good that's good. Have you had many partners?</p><p>'How many is 'many'?</p><p>'Ten?</p><p>'No. Sheila marveled at her own patience; the laughing had put her in a good mood but it was fading fast.</p><p>'Five?</p><p>'No.</p><p>'Three?</p><p>'Oh for God's sake! This sucks! What kind of job interview is this? Or is it a job interview? Are you hitting on me? Is that it? I've heard about a Hollywood casting couch but this is ridiculous! Sheila rose again to leave.</p><p>'No no no. Please please. That's not it at all. He turned the APC toward her. 'I'm just following instructions. I don't want to have sex with you.</p><p>She turned and her expression softened 'Oh you're gay? She smiled and added 'Not that there's anything wrong with that. but he didn't get it.</p><p>He answered seriously 'Gay? Well I'm reasonably content most of the time. But I wouldn't say that I'm gay.</p><p>Sheila shook her head 'Very funny.</p>