“Who said a social experiment can’t be enjoyable?” I pointed out, still whispering. “Look, Boulder, I know it could cost you your life if they found out you helped Athena escape, but I have a plan.”
“Hmm…”
“You could teach me how to fly your hybrid. If you could create a distraction I could get Athena out and take us to the border. Khan and Magni would know I did it, but better me than you since I’d be out of their reach.”
He didn’t like my plan. His expression told me that much.
“And what about your work here? I thought it was important to you.”
“It is and I’ll be sad to miss out on the rest, but saving Athena is more important.”
“I don’t want you to leave,” he said low.
“I know, but you always knew it was just a matter of time.”
Boulder’s eyes grew stormy and dark. “Is it so awful for you to be here with me?”
“No, but Athena is a hostage. Don’t you understand?”
He rolled onto his back, exhaling with frustration.
“Boulder, please,” I begged and moved closer, touching him.
“You’re leaving me, aren’t you?” he asked solemnly.
“Yes,” I muttered.
His sadness pulled at my heartstrings. Boulder was my friend and I liked him. I wanted to touch him and show him that I cared, but how could I when I’d told him I wouldn’t let him touch me until he helped me free Athena? I couldn’t break my word – it was a matter of principle.
And then an idea hit me. “Boulder,” I said, my heart pounding a little faster.
“Uh-huh.”
“Do you still want to make love to me?”
His eyes flew to me. “Is that a trick question?”
“No.”
There was a pregnant silence between us and I cleared my throat to elaborate. “What if I told you I would be okay with it?”
Slowly, he sat up in the bed with his eyes wide open. “Are you messing with me?”
“No, I’m serious. I only have one condition.”
“Which is?”
“You’ll teach me how to fly your hybrid and you’ll create a distraction so I can get Athena out of here.”
He sat perfectly still for a few seconds, contemplating my offer, and then he spoke. “Only ifyoudon’t cross the border.”
“How could I not? I would be punished here if I stayed,” I argued.
“No,” he stated firmly. “I wouldn’t allow them to punish you. I’d protect you.”
I bit my lip and he continued in a low whisper.
“I’ll teach you to fly my hybrid and create a distraction, butonlyif you promise to wait for me at the border. I want more time with you.”
