I was no longer searching for that perfect for ‘long term relationship Indian guy’, I was just enjoying each day as it came and tried not to think...about what would happen next. I figured I could be happy as long as I kept thinking that way. ———————————————- ‘I just don’t get why you can’t just leave some of your stuff here.’ Max stated with annoyance, this wasn’t the first time we were having this discussion. ‘I mean, it’s ridiculous that you can’t just spend the night if you feel like it. It knocked the wind out of her, made her gasp for air, as he repeated the thrust again and again. ‘Whoa! Hold it a fucking minute,’ she cried, ‘Time fucking out!’ ‘What’s the matter?’ ‘You’re killing me with that battering ram, that’s what,’ she said defensively, although her confidence was returning along with her breath. ‘I thought you were fucking around with me, using the mirror and all.’ ‘No, I wasn’t, honest. I wanted to see you doing the old in and out, that’s all. Honest to God.’ ‘All. Finally she gave up and stood in the mud reflecting on her next move. There was no alternative; she must retrace her footsteps to the start. Then she must find an alternative route back to the spot a few yards from where she stood. She turned and walked briskly back across the field, deep in thought. Back where Bill had left her, she stood for a few moments confirming her decision. She glanced down at the mud around her feet, her face screwed up in distaste. Then she went down on her knees and. A quick glance at the man’s epaulets let John confirm his rank. “We were happy to assist, Lieutenant,” he said in an even tone. “We eliminated the pirates, but I’ll arrange for coordinates of their base, and the wreck of the Excelsior to be sent to you.”“Thank you, Sir,” the young officer replied gratefully and saluted.John nodded and then turned to walk back into his ship, closing up the huge hull doors into the Hangar Bay behind him.I’ll set us on a course for Maliri Space again, and then.