SEPTEMBER 18

6:34 A.M.

Nell and Geoffrey gazed from the prow of the Trident at the crimson dawn.

Geoffrey cocked his head and studied her wryly for a moment.

“So, I’ve been meaning to ask: What’s sexier than a man who knows the right thing to say?”

“A man who knows when not to say anything.” Geoffrey lifted her chin to meet her smiling lips with his.

6:35 A.M.

Hiding inside a hatchway Zero videoed them kissing, and Cynthea whispered restlessly in his ear: “Are you getting that?”

Zero popped his left eye open at Cynthea. Yup, his eye said.

6:36 A.M.

Hender’s grin and eyes appeared first as he seemed to materialize behind the two young scientists on the prow. They laughed to see him.

6:36 A.M.

“Oh wow…” Cynthea whispered. “Get that, get that, get that, baby!

6:37 A.M.

Hender moved between them and hugged Geoffrey and Nell with four arms, and together they faced the uncertain dawn.