Roger D. Aycock
Clean Break
"Clean Break" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around Oliver Watts, a veterinarian whose mundane life takes an extraordinary turn when he encounters a wealthy recluse and is drawn into a world filled with exotic animals, mysterious beings, and unexpected adventures. The novella explores themes of obligation, self-discovery, and escape from a humdrum existence. The narrative follows Oliver as he reluctantly adheres to family pressures to become a veterinarian, setting aside his childhood dreams of adventure. His life changes dramatically when he treats a polar bear owned by the eccentric millionaire Mr. Furnay, which leads him to discover that Mr. Furnay and his entourage are actually aliens. Amid the chaos, he encounters the captivating yet enigmatic Perrl-high-C-trill-and-A-above, who turns out to be involved with the alien creatures. Through a series of events, Oliver learns that his dull life can be transformed into an exhilarating journey, ultimately choosing to join the performers of an interstellar circus with Perrl, escaping the constraints he once thought defined him. This story highlights the allure of adventure and the potential for personal growth through unexpected circumstances.