Page 305 of Commander’s Mate

I closed my eyes.

She had asked the same question before.

I had answered correctly in theory.

Theory was easy when the person remained a record.

“Where she chooses.”

“Better.”

“I dislike your grading system.”

“Too bad.”

“What happens if we find Earth?”

Her body went still.

I regretted asking.

Then did not.

She deserved the question as much as I did.

“I don’t know.”

Truth.

Good.

“If you can go?”

“I go.”

The words cut exactly as expected.

Harper lifted herself onto one elbow.

“I go to see them.”

I said nothing.

“My parents. My brother. My home.”

“Yes.”

“You’re making that face.”

“What face?”

“The commander face you use when you’re trying to survive a sentence.”

“I am listening.”

“You are bracing.”

“Yes.”