"I've found that being able to reason about magical patterns is a useful skill for a practitioner," you say. "I'll work with Gabriel to help him gain the same skill."
"Dr. Smith's reference letter mentioned that that was an area where you needed improvement," Dr. Eze says.
Drat, you should have known that your fellowship program director would have said that in his letter. "Percival has a very specific way he wants people to think about patterns. His approach didn't work for me, I'm afraid."
Darcy radiates smugness. "Oh, Bomomsay Clestenrogo has other skills that this department needs." She turns to you. "Perhaps focus on those instead."
You make a show of checking the time on your phone. "I've got to get to work before the morning's gone. Good to see you again, Dr. Eze."
"Hmm," Dr. Eze says before wandering off in the direction of coffee.
"You'll eventually win him over, I'm sure," Darcy says. She walks away, whistling.
I Really Don't Like Her