We all walked in silence.
After a few minutes, he abruptly stopped in front of a door, allowing us time to catch up.
He pressed a button on the panel beside the door.
Joele smiled at us when the door opened just a few moments later. “I’ve been wondering when you’d come to visit.” With a grin, she stepped aside and gestured for us to enter.
I FOLDED MY ARMS ANDlistened for a moment while Avery and Riley spoke to Joele about leaving the ship.
Olivia sat staring at the floor, looking lost and uncertain.
I shook my head and made my way to the opposite side of the room, where I lost myself in the emptiness of space outside the window.
My breath caught in my throat at the sight, filling me with wonder.
Being here felt like a dream come true.
Riley walked up and tilted her head, her curious gaze fixed on me. “Once we get to the Outpost to meet Joele’s people she has agreed to help us find our way back home.”
I responded with a non-committal “hmm”, the sound barely escaping my lips, and frowned.
“Are you alright?” Riley tidied her ponytail as she spoke, then dropped her hands to her side.
I raised my shoulders in a shrug. “Yes. Why would I not be?”
“You look sad.” Her forehead became furrowed. “Is this about Captain Trex?”
My head snapped back. “What? Of course not, no. It’s nothing. I was caught up in my thoughts.” EvenIthought my voice sounded high-pitched.
“You have no intention of leaving the ship, do you?” She stated more than asked.
Of course, I don’t want to leave the safety of the ship. Or the gorgeous alien Captain.
Riley surprised me by picking up on that fact.
Denying it was pointless. “I don’t.”
She studied me for a moment.
It wasn’t just because of Trex.Was it?
I’d always dreamed of exploring space. That’s the reason I wanted to stay.
Sure, keep telling yourself that,the small voice in my mind taunted.
My heart twisted at the thought of living in a human colony and never seeing Captain Trex again.
Maybe Riley had a point.
I sealed my lips, unwilling to vocalize my true feelings.
Riley leaned in discreetly. “I knew it. You are attracted to him. I noticed a spark between you two when he brought you back to our room. He likes you too, judging by the fact that he only kissedyourhand earlier.” With a mischievous grin, Riley wiggled her eyebrows.
Saying nothing, I blushed.
“Theyarepretty hot aliens,” Riley laughed.
Her remark caught me off guard, and I smiled. “Are you really going with Joele?”
