Friday night, Amaya lay in bed and reflected on the past few days and evenings with Jason Carlisle. She had never responded to a man in such a way. Everything he said and did affected her—his smile, his touch, his voice, his character. He was all she needed and wanted. He was an ideal mate. How, she fretted, could she ever forget or replace him? Yet she was leaving soon and might never see him again. She wished she could tell him the truth about herself and ask him to return home with her; but she couldn’t because the shock could destroy their relationship. He had made it clear to her that he found her desirable, but they were worlds—galaxies—apart.
Monday afternoon, he had taken her and Avi to AstroWorld, where they enjoyed numerous rides that included a log flume, a freefall, Thunder River, the Batman “escape,” and several roller coasters, including the thrilling Texas Cyclone. Those adventures had been stimulating, often stealing her breath and allowing her to snuggle or be thrown into contact with Jason many times. They had watched entertaining shows, seen all kinds of sights. Jason had purchased her a souvenir: a miniature replica of the largest roller coaster.
That evening, Andrea and Nigel had joined them for dinner in a fine restaurant and then the ballet. The performance of Swan Lake had included lovely costumes and music, talented dancers … and a moment of panic when Jason asked Amaya to check the program to see who had the lead parts. Fortunately Andrea had overheard his request and the Earth-born woman handled the matter.
The following day, Jason had taken everyone to a vintage plane show to observe stunts by old planes and “daredevils.” Amaya especially savored the hot air balloon ride alone with Jason. When he had asked her to go on the ride, she had been so enthusiastic that Nigel had agreed. They had floated for an hour above the planet’s surface in a heavenly setting. The sky was clear and blue and there was little wind. The balloon was an array of vivid colors, and the basket was cozy and romantic. They had stood close together as he pointed out sights. Amaya cuddled against his tall and hard body; Jason’s arm was around her waist. If only a pilot hadn’t been present, they could have stolen kisses and embraces and shared private words!
Afterward, the exhausted McKays were taken home to rest, and the Sangers stayed behind to keep them company while Jason took her and Avi to a Mexican restaurant. She managed to conceal her inability to read by asking him to order something unusual for her to try, which he did with delight. She even tried a margarita, which she discovered was tasty to her palate and potent to her head, and her reaction to the drink was amusing to her two companions. Jason had chuckled and said she could only have one or she might get “smashed.” That was one time she didn’t require explanation for a slang word.
Wednesday with Jason had been a great thrill for Amaya. When the excursion began, she almost panicked after he asked if she wanted to drive his car. She quickly refused by claiming the traffic was too congested and scary to suit her. Jason asked Avi the same question, and her best friend also refused in a hurry, saying she didn’t “like alien traffic, either.”
Jason laughed and said, “We do have lots of foreign tourists, but most know how to drive in American traffic or they take taxis. Are you sure you don’t want to tag along with us?” he asked Avi. “Amaya’s in for a treat. I’m going to let her test her hunger for flying. If she likes what I have scheduled for her today, maybe she’ll stay here and go into training to be an astronaut.”
Knowing of his plans and wanting to give them time alone, Avi said, “I’d be too terrified to watch, so it’s best for me to stay away. I’ll wait for you two at your home. You take good care of her, Jason, or my parents will kill all of us.”
“Don’t worry, she’ll be perfectly safe. I wouldn’t let her take chances of getting hurt. I think Amaya loves adventure and challenges as much as I do, so this is one experience she’ll never forget.”
At the Air Ace company, she was “briefed” on the T-34 plane and its weapons, on maneuvers, strategies, tactics, and safety. She donned a flight suit and helmet, was strapped into the front seat of a cockpit, and prepared for takeoff with the help of a pilot in the rear seat. The propeller was noisy and the small craft vibrated during and after leaving the ground. Amaya’s head and stomach had danced with unfamiliar sensations and suspense. She had flown the plane as taught— climbing, diving, attacking, evading, and firing infra-red laser “bullets” on enemies in a simulated “dogfight.” After she landed the craft, there was a “debriefing” where the two watched a video of her “mission,” which became a treasured keepsake, one she was eager to show Galen upon her return home.
No flying experience was necessary for the ride, but Amaya grasped the instructions fast and carried them out with ease and skill. Jason and the instructor said she was a natural pilot and fighting “ace.”
“Just as I thought,” Jason added. “Astronaut material to the bone. Are you sure you don’t want to enlist at Space Center Houston? Who knows, maybe you’d get to visit the moon one day?”
“You forget I have a job, one I love.”
“You could give it up for a good reason, couldn’t you?”
“Not any time soon. I have duties and responsibilities there. Could you give up your work to move to another place and another … career?”
“I never thought about it. Like you, I love what I do and I do it well.”
He had said those last words without arrogance, just pride and satisfaction. They returned to his villa and showed Avi the tape.
Afterward, they ate dinner at the McKays’, chatted, and watched television for a while.
Thursday, Jason took them to the Astrodome for a baseball game. The sports arena was enormous and had countless brilliant lights and windows. It was packed with people who created a great deal of “ racket.” There was loud music to stir the viewers’ blood and support for their chosen team. She had listened closely as Jason explained the game to her en route, and she had found the sport interesting and pleasant. She also found the Coke, popcorn, and peanuts appealing. As a souvenir, Jason purchased her a pennant, as he’d learned by now she enjoyed mementos.
Afterward, they stopped by a grocery store to purchase food and drinks for a “cookout” on Jason’s porch overlooking the marina. Once more she had panicked when he asked her to “pop the potatoes in the microwave” and she didn’t know how to use the device. Fortunately, Andrea and Avi did. While the three men and Grace chatted on the porch and Jason cooked steaks, Avi’s mother had a chance to explain the meaning of “rug rats” and “hits the spot” and other sayings she had heard during the day. That event was delightful, but she had found herself wishing she was alone with the virile Earthling who aroused her passions to great heights.
She and Avi had spent the next day with Avi’s grandparents and parents, relaxing and chatting. Tonight, Jason had taken everyone to a performance of Cats at the Theater Under The Stars. Amaya found that “Broadway-style production” to her liking and even talked about wanting to see it again one day.
Now she was having trouble getting to sleep because she was too aware of the reality that she had only one and a half days left on Earth and with Jason. The visit had passed too swiftly to suit her. There was so much more she wanted to see and do, all with the irresistible alien. She was glad Avi had promised to help her steal some time alone with him tomorrow.
“Jason is certainly spending a lot of time and money on the girls,” Andrea remarked to Nigel, in the guest room next door. “I’ve never seen him so happy. But I’m not sure we should let them go off tomorrow. We’ll be departing Sunday evening, so Saturday is our last full day here.”
“They’re young and full of energy, my love, so let them have fun one last day. At least Jason’s diversions have kept Avi from worrying about Sebok and wanting to go home every day. Amaya seems rested and relaxed; she’s been enjoying herself. As for Jason, he needed to be revived. We know what it’s like to lose a son; and he lost a wife, too. I think our visit has been good for him; so does your mother.”
“Perhaps too good. I’m a little concerned, Nigel; he and Amaya seem to be enjoying themselves and liking each other too much.”
“What do you mean?”
“I think they’re attracted to each other. Jason said it was possible for him to take off so much time because he works for himself, has only one case in progress, and has an employee doing most of the investigating and tailing for him. I believe he’s doing it to spend time with Amaya.”
Nigel’s dimples showed as he grinned. “What’s wrong with that?”
“We’ve leaving soon, so a relationship between them is impossible. After what he’s been through, I don’t want to see Jason get hurt again.”
Nigel’s smile vanished. “You think Amaya is being unfair to him?”
“No, I think Amaya likes Jason too much. She could get hurt, too, if they’ve fallen in love and neither realizes it. Or even if they do. Amaya knows they’re from different worlds, but Jason doesn’t.”
“They’re both good people, my love, so they’ll be kind to each other. Amaya knows we’re leaving, so she won’t make it hard for him.”
“You’re right; Amaya is as gentle and intelligent as her mother. She would never injure another for brief pleasure. Now, let’s go to bed. I’m sleepy.”
“I’m not,” Nigel murmured as he drew Andrea into his arms.
After lunch the following day, Avi strolled into her grandparents’ backyard and sat down with the group to chat.
Andrea looked at her daughter’s playful expression. “I thought you and Amaya were going for a ride with Jason,” she said. “Didn’t he arrive a while ago? I thought I heard a car leave just now.”
“I decided I didn’t want to go.”
“They went together? Alone?”
“I didn’t see anyone else in the vehicle,” the brunette jested. In a serious tone, she added, “Amaya will be fine, so don’t worry. She’s a grown woman, Mother. They like each other and have fun together.”
“She’ll be fine, dear; Jason will take care of her,” Grace told Andrea, who seemed unduly worried.
“I’m sure she will be, Mother. It’s just that Nigel and I are responsible for her safety while she’s in our care. Amaya isn’t like other women Jason knows; she’s lived in a very different environment. I would never forgive myself if anything happened to her; nor would her parents.”
As Jason pressed the buttons on his car radio, he asked, “What kind of music do you like best, Amaya?”
She called a television commercial to mind. “Easy listening.”
Jason grinned. “Me, too. I like most kinds, but that’s my favorite for background when I’m talking with someone as fascinating as you.”
“You are also fascinating. I’ve enjoyed my visit and your company. You have been an excellent … tour guide and … chauffeur.”
Jason parked the car at Lake Houston and released his seatbelt. “I can’t remember ever having more fun than I have with you,” he told Amaya. “I hate for you to leave. I’m going to miss you, woman. I wish we had more time together. I hope this will remind you of me and the hours we spent together,” he said as he took a box from the dashboard and gave it to her.
Amaya had viewed enough television to know how to open the jewelry box. She gazed at the gold watch inside and smiled in joy.
“I’ll help you put it on,” he offered so he could touch her.
Amaya. released her safety belt as taught and turned toward him to extend her right wrist. When he asked if she wanted to remove the other “watch,” she shook her head. “It stores information for me,” she told him.
“It’s unusual. What kind is it? What brand?”
“I don’t know; it has no company name on it; it was a gift from my parents. The data inside is listed in secret symbols, in private code. Most of it has to do with my work, so I can’t show you its functions.”
“That’s all right because they’d be Greek to me anyway.”
Her heart speeded up for a minute as he edged closer to put the gold watch on her wrist. “It’s perfect, but I have nothing for you.”
Jason placed his arm along the top of the seat and made contact with her shoulder, and his knees nudged hers. His fingers toyed with a flaxen curl. “These past two weeks are all I need as a souvenir. But what I want most in the future is to spend the majority of the hours on that watch with you.”
Amaya met his gaze. “I wish that was possible,” she replied. “For now, it is not. I must return home and to work.”
“Work was the biggest part of my life until I met you. Now, other things seem more important to me, like you and a future together. I know this is forward of me, Amaya, but our time is running out. Crazy as it might sound, I love you, woman, and I want to marry you.”
Amaya leaned against the door behind her and stared at him. She needed the distance to clear her wits and regain her composure. She didn’t know what to say and do. She couldn’t stay here and marry him without telling him the truth; she couldn’t imagine his reaction to such shocking news. Yet she couldn’t stay even without telling him; if she had a baby that would expose her not only to Jason but also to Earthling doctors, their scientists, their rulers. She didn’t want to speculate on what those people would do to her, him, and their child. They would have no privacy or freedom. They could become specimens, prisoners, monsters. She must not endanger herself, Jason, the Sanders, the McKays, and any unborn child. Yet…
“Maybe I’ve misread your feelings for me, but I hope not. If we don’t explore this bond between us, we’ll never know what could have been. I learned from Scott and Kathy’s deaths that life can be short and cruel. Give us a chance to see if we can make it together. I believe we can be happy.”
Amaya did, too. “I did not expect to hear such words today.”
“And I didn’t expect to say them, but they’re true. Is there any way you can remain here longer or return soon? Could you fall in love with me?”
Even if they couldn’t marry and have children, they could enjoy their love and passion for a while. Perhaps once they were as one, he would love her enough to go to her world to live. They needed time alone, time together, just the two of them. Could she sacrifice true love without searching for a way to make a life together possible? Both things were too rare to lose if the obstacles between them could be removed. A relationship on Earth could not work for security reasons but perhaps one could in her world if he got to know her well enough to go. “I cannot remain, but I will try to come back as soon as possible. I will speak with my parents and superior the moment I return to my world.”
Jason ignored her last words as hope filled him. “What about my last question? Could you love me if given time to get to know me better?”
“I do not need to get to know you better to love you and want you. But what of your first mate? Is she out of your heart and mind?”
Jason realized that Amaya had a strange way of putting things sometimes but that only endeared her to him. “Kathy is in my past. She was a good wife and we had a comfortable marriage. She was a kind person and wonderful mother. I loved her, but I wasn’t in love with her. We were high school sweethearts and we stayed together during college. We always planned to marry after graduation; our friends and family believed the same thing. During my senior year, I realized I had to break it off with her because I didn’t love her as I should; I just hated to hurt her because we’d been together for so long. We were like a pair of old boots that had been comfortable for years but had finally worn out.”
Jason lowered his arm and rested it across his lap. “Before I could find the kindest way to end our relationship, Kathy told me she was pregnant. I couldn’t let her get an abortion or have the baby alone; it was my child, too. We got married during our last year in college. Scott, our son, was born the summer afterward. I had already signed up to become a Navy Seal, so I left for training. Later, Kathy and Scott joined me at the base. I’m not complaining; we had a nice life. After I finished my tour of duty, we moved to Dallas and I went to work as a P.I. It wasn’t long before Kathy and Scott were killed. I was angry and depressed; God, I loved my son. I sold our home and moved in with my parents for a while to comfort them and to escape tormenting memories. After their deaths from food poisoning, I sold everything and took the money I collected from suing the negligent restaurant owners and moved to Houston for a fresh start, opened my own business to give me more challenges and distractions.”
To be certain she understood his past, Jason clarified, “We didn’t have a perfect marriage, Amaya, but it was a peaceful one; we gave Scott a good home, and I made the best of the situation. I didn’t want to divorce Kathy because I wanted Scott to have a stable environment and I wanted to help raise my son. After my parents’ deaths, the man I worked for—a close friend of mine—told me I had to accept all those tragedies and get on with my life. He said the best medicine was a new love and marriage, but I hadn’t met anybody who tempted me to believe him until you came along. I don’t want to lose you, too, Amaya. I need you. I love you. Give me a chance to prove myself to you.”
“You don’t need to prove yourself to me.”
“Is there somebody special you left behind at home?”
“No, you’re the first man I’ve loved, but this has all happened too quickly. We need time together to see if our bond is strong and true enough to share a future together. I have duties to honor. There will be many changes to make. There is more involved than resigning a job. We must make certain of our feelings before either of us gives up so much. I was born and raised and I live and work in an environment very different from yours. This is my first trip to … America; I did not know I was coming until three days prior to departure so I was not well prepared for this land and its people. There are many things I do not know about and countless things I have never seen or done before. I cannot tell you about my work, but it is what you would call, behind the scenes, undercover, in carefully controlled circumstances. I cannot tell you much about myself and my parents because our existences are a secret.”
Jason knew those last statements were accurate because he had been unable to get any information about her from any source he had tried. It was almost as if Amaya Saar—and the Sangers—didn’t exist! “If you stay longer or hurry back, I can show you all kinds of things and teach you everything you don’t know. I could take off from work so we could visit deserts, mountains, beaches, and other wonders of America. We could go camping in Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, the Black Hills, New England, and other places you haven’t seen. Let’s take a walk and talk about it.”
“I would like that,” Amaya said.
“So where does the name Saar come from?” Jason asked as they strolled.
“My parents. Isn’t it the same here with children?”
“Yes, but what I meant is, what kind of name is it?”
“My family’s name.”
He chuckled. “What country is it from. It doesn’t sound American.”
“It isn’t American, but I’m sorry I cannot reveal its origin. I realize you have told me many things about you and your life, but I cannot do the same. I know that sounds unfair, but I have been sworn to secrecy. How could you trust me to keep my word to you if I broke it to others?”
“I can accept you at face value, Amaya. When the time comes that you feel you can tell me everything about you, you will. Until that moment arrives, what I know about you for now is sufficient.”
She halted and gazed at him to ask in a playful manner, “How do you know I’m not a criminal or a terrible person? I could be a spy or an alien.”
“If that were true, you wouldn’t be here with the Sangers, my cousins. Are you a criminal or terrible person?” he jested.
“I am neither; that I swear to you. But I am different.”
Jason lifted his hand and caressed her tawny cheek. He loved her sexy, almost sleepy-eyed expression. He adored her soft and silky honey blond hair. He yearned to kiss those full lips. He liked the pants suit that hugged her small waist and shapely hips and firm breasts as he craved to do. He noticed the way its fusion of colors matched her eyes. He felt himself being aroused by her beauty and sensuality, her nearness and mutual attraction to him. He knew his voice was husky when he finally said, “I know, that’s why I find you so appealing and lovable.”
Amaya leaned against the tall tree behind her and allowed her gaze to wander over his handsome features. “You are unlike all men I’ve met and known; you stand far above them.”
Jason propped one palm against the bark over her head and leaned toward her. “That’s how we should be, special and unique to each other.” His other fingers drifted into her hair as he meshed their mouths. He felt Amaya’s arms band his body and her lips respond in eagerness.
Any space between them vanished as they clung together in a passionate embrace. As they explored each other with eager kisses and caresses, Amaya yearned to surrender to these enticing desires. Her fingers moved along his strong back and shoulders as he stroked her jawline and the smooth column of her neck. They pulled her away from the pine far enough so his arms could encircle her and hold her tighter.
As his mouth trekked down her throat, he groaned in hunger and pleasure. “I love you, Amaya Saar, and I need you. Stay,” he urged.
Her lips sampled his neck and her hands roved his torso. “I’ll try, but I can’t make promises today. I’ll-”
“Ain’t that a purty sight?” a cold voice sneered from a short distance away.
Jason and Amaya jerked apart and glanced toward the intruder. They noticed a weapon in the disheveled man’s hand, pointing at them.
Jason pushed his love behind him. “What are you doing here, Speaks? I thought you were in jail.”
“I’m free on bond.”
“Your brain’s fried on drugs or you wouldn’t be acting so stupid.”
Amaya wondered at the contradiction of “free” and “bond.” How could someone’s brain be “fried” if he were still alive? She watched and listened.
Larry Speaks eyed the beauty peeking from behind his target. “You stuck your nose in where it wasn’t needed or wanted. You cost me plenty. My old lady’s hiding and I can’t find her. She took everything with her. Some of that shit’s mine and I aim to git it back. Her, too, the bitch.”
“If you hadn’t beaten your wife, you wouldn’t have gotten into trouble. I was hired to get evidence for a restraining order and divorce. You had no call to beat her senseless.”
“She won’t press no charges against me; she knows she deserves every licking I gave her. That bitch ain’t sending me to prison.”
“She doesn’t have to; there are other witnesses against you—your buddies who saw you beat her— when you weren’t doing it in private.”
“My friends’ll keep their flaps shut if you stop egging ‘em on and scaring ‘em. Now, hey, you there, woman, sally your pretty hinny to me.”
“Leave her out of this; I’m warning you, Speaks.”
Larry ignored Jason’s icy tone and look. “Do it, woman, or he’s dead.”
“I don’t understand your order,” Amaya said as she accessed their surly attacker and the perilous situation.
“She’s foreign, Speaks, so she doesn’t know all of our language.”
“How about, git yourself over here or I’ll kill your man?”
When Amaya started to obey the command, Jason grabbed her elbow. “No, he’s crazy and dangerous,” he said. “Let me deal with him.”
“Don’t worry,” she whispered. “I can take care of myself and him.”
“Let her go, Carlisle, or I’ll shoot both of you. I’m mad and I’m antsy. You took my woman, so I’m taking yours. After I’m done with her, I might give her back, ain’t no telling. Git your paws off her and send her over or she’s a gonner.”
To stall for time, Jason released Amaya’s arm. When he tried to inch closer as she walked forward, Larry shook the .357 magnum and ordered him to be still or he’d take her out faster than a jackrabbit could run.
Amaya pretended to be frightened, and obeyed him. As she approached him, his gaze flickered over her from head to feet. She waited until he partially imprisoned her before him with an arm spanning her torso between her neck and breasts. After he focused his attention on Jason, she reacted with skill and speed that astonished both men. Her hands seized his wrist and, as she whirled around, they twisted his arm and she tossed him to the ground on his back. She jammed her knee into his vulnerable abdomen, the action stealing his breath. She used her forearm to knock the heavy weapon from his loosened grasp. He wriggled and grappled to get free and to attack.
Jason reached them and yelled, “I’ll take him! Run!”
As her love pulled her away by the arm, Larry rolled free and grabbed the large pistol. Amaya shoved Jason aside and gave Larry’s hand an agile and powerful kick that sent the weapon flying away again. She saw Jason leap on the man and watched the two scuffle for a few minutes. It didn’t take long for Jason to disable his winded opponent.
With Larry’s arm pinned behind his back, Jason told the female, “Get me my handcuffs out of the glove compartment.” He noted how Amaya hesitated and looked confused for a moment or two.
As soon as her microchip translated his words, Amaya rushed to the vehicle and obeyed his request. She returned and passed them to him.
“Thanks. I’ll cuff him to this tree and call the police.”
“Why?”
“He’s a criminal. He broke the law, tried to kill us. He’ll be arrested again. This time, he won’t get out on bond.”
They left the man secured to a pine and walked to Jason’s car.
There, Amaya asked, “Will the … police ask us questions and take us to their complex?”
“Yes, they’ll have to make a report and take him in. We’ll have to give statements and sign them. Why?” he queried her apparent worry.
Amaya knew she could not read a “statement and sign” it. “I should not get involved in problems here. I must return to the McKays before the authorities arrive. It will look suspicious if I do not tell them who I am and answer their questions, and I cannot; I must not. If I get into trouble or my superiors learn of my peril, I won’t be allowed to return to America and the Sangers won’t allow me to be alone with you again before departure time.”
“You’re right. I don’t want to anger or worry the others or get you into trouble.” On the other hand, he reasoned, a witness would have to hang around to testify against Speaks … No, that was selfish. “Take my car and go home. I’ll join you there as soon as I finish with the police.”
“I can’t drive,” she admitted.
Jason stared at her. “You what?”
“I cannot drive a vehicle like this. It isn’t far and I know the way. I watched our course en route. I’ll walk to their dwelling. This is our secret.”
“It’s two miles away and going alone could be dangerous.”
“It is a short and easy walk, and I can defend myself.”
“I guess you proved that minutes ago. But I—”
Jason’s cellular phone rang. “Hello … I understand … Of course you have to take care of her … Don’t worry, I’ll cover for you tonight. I’ll be there as soon as I turn Larry Speaks over to the cops. They let the bas—snake out on bail and he just attacked me. I was about to give them a call to come fetch him.”
Amaya listened to the brief conversation and knew a conflict had arisen. After he hung up, Jason explained that his employee had a family emergency and he had to relieve him on a surveillance job.
“This couldn’t be worse timing; tomorrow is our only day left: It can’t be helped, Amaya; this case is in its final days and our target is making careless slips. I have to go watch him. I’m sorry.”
“I understand; you must do your duty; it would be the same with me. We’ll see each other tomorrow.”
“I’ll take care of this matter and not involve you.” I hope. “Maybe Speaks will go for a trade: an assault on me instead of two attempted murder charges if he doesn’t mention you were present. If he refuses, you’ll be gone by Monday morning and can’t be brought in for questioning. If necessary to keep you out of it, I’ll drop the charges against Speaks; he’s the kind to get himself into trouble again. Besides, he was carrying a weapon. Don’t worry; it’ll be fine. You watch yourself on the way home. Be alert and careful.”
“I will, and thank you.”
“You’re back early. Where’s Jason?” Avi asked as she let her friend inside her grandparents’ home, peeked out front, and closed the door.
“He had work to do. I’ll tell you about it later. Where are the others?”
“Outside. I came in to get something to drink. Do you want anything?”
“Yes, I’m thirsty.” Amaya sipped the cola drink Avi handed to her.
“Pralu, tell me what happened between you two. I"m as nervous as an espree in a chamber filled with scarfelli.”
Amaya glanced toward the patio doors and whispered, “Later, when we’re alone. Everything is fine with us.”
“From that glow in your eyes, I have no doubt it is,” Avi quipped.
“Your cousin is wonderful, splendid, a man bigger than the stars.”
“Pralu, you’re in love with him! Does he love you?”
“Yes, but so much stands between us. You must help me get away for a while tomorrow to say goodbye in private.”
“Don’t worry, we’ll think of something. Let’s go visit with the others now so they won’t have an excuse to refuse our request in the morning.”
In the borrowed condo the following day at noon, Jason came to visit before heading into Houston for a surveillance chore. “I’ll be tied up for most of the afternoon, but I’ll be back to see you. What time is your flight?”
Amaya realized she couldn’t tell him the truth about their schedule or they would be exposed. “We depart at midnight,” she was forced to lie, when six o’clock was their last hour on Earth. By the time he discovered she had deceived him, they would be gone and he’d have no way to locate her. She would get Avi to teach her how to use the telephone so she could leave an explanatory message on his answering machine; she would tell him goodbye was too hard to say in person and she’d return as soon as possible.
“Good, that gives me time to finish this job or be replaced. I’ll be here at eight o’clock or see you at the airport, even if I have to put this case on hold. That’ll give us four hours together, if you don’t change your mind.”
“I do not want to leave you, Jason, but I must. It will be good for us to have time and distance to test our feelings.”
Jason pulled her into his arms and held her tight for a moment. “I’m just afraid I’ll lose you forever if you leave. How can we test our feelings and get closer if we’re separated? We can’t even call or write.”
“I know, but I must see my family. I must take care of my job. I’ll have to get a long leave so I can return. Besides, the Sangers wouldn’t allow me to stay behind.”
“You’re a grown woman, Amaya; how could Nigel stop you?”
“I’m in their charge; I vowed to my parents to obey them. I don’t want to cause trouble between them; they’re best friends.”
“Your parents and boss will understand if you stay for love.”
“I can’t explain why today, but it’s not that simple, Jason.”
“Nothing worthwhile is ever simple, Amaya. Stay, please.”
“I promise you I will think about it all day,” she had to reply.
“That’s a start. I’ll see you tonight.”
“I also promise to return as soon as possible if I can’t remain here.”
“That’s better than a final goodbye. I love you, remember that today.”
“I will, and I love you.”
They shared a bittersweet kiss and parted.
“I’d better leave before somebody comes to check on us or my suspect skips out on me. Think about us before you make your final decision.”
“I will,” she vowed, but knew she couldn’t stay this time.
“They’ve been over there alone for a long time, Nigel,” Andrea said to her husband. “I’m worried about them.”
“You heard Avi; let them have a last visit together. We’re leaving soon, so we should join your parents outside and do our own final visiting.”
“I just don’t want either of them getting any wild ideas.”
Nigel stroked his wife’s auburn hair. “Like what, my love?”
“Like Jason talking Amaya into staying behind or her revealing things about herself to him. Love and desire can make one act impulsive at times.”
“They’re adults, Andrea, and they’re both intelligent. They wouldn’t behave rashly. They’ve only known each other for two weeks.”
Andrea’s worries were not assuaged by his words because she knew how powerful and persuasive love could be. “Have you checked in with the Aerostar yet about our departure? Has there been any news from them or Varian since you contacted the ship two days ago?”
“No. I’ll do it from upstairs, then join you outside.”
“Come in, sir; I wanted to have a few words with you,” Amaya said as she let Nigel into the apartment she and Avi were using.
“I saw Jason leave, so I thought we should speak alone. You two have been spending a great deal of time together; now, this private visit. Is there something Andrea and I should know, if you want to discuss it?”
“Is it possible for us to remain here another week or so?”
Nigel shook his head of dark brown curls and his chocolate gaze sent her a sympathetic expression. “I’m afraid not, Amaya. The planets are moving out of alignment and it would make our return voyage too long.”
Before he could continue his explanation, she reasoned, “If we use starlight speed, it won’t add too much time to our schedule.”
“The misalignments of a delayed departure will lengthen our voyage too much, Amaya. Even at starlight speed, we couldn’t make up lost time. The ship is on standby now. All preparations have been made, and the staff’s data-gathering mission is completed. We can’t ask them to orbit up there with nothing to do so we can extend our visit. Even more important, staying cloaked much longer will be a reckless drain on our power system. We can’t risk losing our shield and being detected by their radar. Even if they didn’t know we’re an alien vessel, each country would suspect another of an imminent attack or of spying with some new weapon or satellite system. We must not provoke trouble or fear.”
“But we’ll have to lower our shield for us to transport aboard.”
“Correct, and there’s only one window to use any time soon: it’s at six o’clock as I told you last night. A short intrusion on Earth’s magnetosphere by a quasar will mask our presence. We must take advantage of it.”
“That’s our only safe opening in the near future?”
“Yes, so we must go. Your father has an assignment waiting for you, and we’ve both used up our leave time. We’re Star Fleet officers and we have our duties to perform at home. Personal desires can’t intrude; I’m sorry.”
“You spoke to my father? How? When? What did he say?”
“I received his coded message earlier; it’s an important mission, and you’ve been eager to receive one. I’m needed there, too, so I can’t prolong our stay. I’m sorry because it’s obvious you and Jason have gotten close.” I can’t reveal the problems at home and alarm you three women when we’re too far away to help. I don’t want Andrea to worry about Thaine’s safety or Avi to fret about Sebok’s or you to panic over your family’s, especially your father’s with that replica on the loose. Varian needs me there for help and advice; our world is being attacked by a powerful and cunning force. If I had known about this trouble, we’d be under way right now. “This request does have to do with Jason Carlisle, right?”
“Yes. I want to stay to get to know him better. I’ve never met anyone like him. We’re very compatible, but we need more time.”
“I can’t leave you here, Amaya, so please don’t make that request. It’s impossible and dangerous to let you stay. If trouble arose, you’d have no protection or means of escape. It’s also too early to risk exposing the truth to Jason, even if you two are in love. Being from another country is one thing, but from another galaxy and civilization is quite another. I know from experience with Andrea, Jana, and others taken to our world—it’s difficult to accept and adjust. To push that kind of revelation too fast could destroy any relationship you have in progress. I believe it’s easier for a female to change and adjust than for a male. Jason Carlisle is a good and strong man, but this is too soon to tell him you’re an alien. You do need time with him to test and strengthen your bond before any commitment decision is made, but that’s not possible at this date. Maybe you can return after your impending mission is finished.”
Amaya knew she couldn’t argue against his logic and intelligence. “I hope so because this relationship is important to me and to him.”
“I can see it is,” Nigel said. “But give it time, Amaya, that’s what your parents would advise. You hardly know Jason; and a life here with him would be difficult, if not impossible. It would certainly be hazardous for you, him, and your children. You need time, distance, and a clear head to assess the obstacles facing such a union. Wait and see how you feel after you’re separated. See how he feels when you return. I’ll speak with Varian and Jana and help you plan another visit.”
“Thank you, sir; that’s very kind of you. I’ll prepare my things for departure and join you soon. I’d like to be alone for a while.”
“I understand. Is Jason coming by later to say goodbye again?”
“We will be gone when he returns at eight. I gave him the wrong time, so we wouldn’t be exposed here or at the airport.”
“That was smart of you. Take the time you need, then join us.”
At five o’clock, Nigel stared at his distraught daughter who had summoned him outside to talk in private. “What do you mean Amaya’s gone?” he asked. “The taxi is en route and we have to depart.”
“I"m sorry, Father, but she isn’t there. She left a message for us and one for her parents in the correspondence device. You told me to leave her alone following your talk with her, so I obeyed. She’s gone.”
“That’s strange. We were sitting outside for most of the afternoon, Avi, and I didn’t hear a vehicle approach or depart. Why would she go off with Jason to say goodbye when she knows what our schedule is? She should have returned by now. What if something happened to her?”
Avi had no choice except to disclose the truth. “It didn’t, Father, not how you mean. She’s decided to stay here with Jason and—”
“She what?” Nigel interrupted in astonishment and dismay.
“Listen to her message to us; it explains everything.”
Nigel took the audio-visual unit and played Amaya Saar’s news. “I can’t believe she would do this. It’s too dangerous. We have to locate her and change her mind. Did you know she was planning this defiance?”
“No, sir, and I would have spoken against such wild plans. She isn’t prepared for staying here, not even with my grandparents or my cousin. What are we going to do, Father? Time is so short.”
“Give me the key to that place and send your mother over to join me. Don’t worry your grandparents. Tell them we’re handling private business by telephone. We’ll try to find Jason and convince him to return her.”
After Andrea joined her husband in the other condo and heard the grim account, she paled and said, “Varian and Jana will be furious. We can’t leave her behind, Nigel; we must find her.”
“Call Jason’s place and see if they’re there.”
Andrea tried, but no one responded, not even the answering machine. “What are we going to do?”
“If Jason and Amaya want to hide from us, they can and will. Even if we missed our only departure window, we might not locate them.”
“You aren’t saying we’ll leave without her, are you?”
“We have no choice. Varian wouldn’t want us to miss the window and remain here. Amaya said she’d rendezvous with us at your parents’ home next year. We must leave on time.”
“How will I ever explain this to Jana and earn her forgiveness?”
“Jana will understand we had no choice. We have to hope and believe Amaya will be safe with your cousin … There’s the taxi’s horn. I’m sorry, my love, we have to go without her.”
“What about her career? Her rank? Her assignment?”
“Obviously they don’t mean as much to her as Jason does.” If I had revealed the truth to her, Amaya would be anxious to get home! “The best I can do is let Varian decide about sending a search team back for her.”
“Do you really think she’ll be all right here?” “I hope so, Andrea.” Especially with some villite raiding Earth for slaves.
Grace answered the bell to find Jason standing at the door. “How nice to see you, dear. I’m sorry you missed the young people’s departure. Can you join us for supper? We’re eating late this evening.”
“They’re gone? When? I thought their flight was at midnight.”
“No, at six; they left about five-thirty. It was a rush after Amaya decided to stay behind.”
“Amaya didn’t leave with them? Where is she? Still next door?”
“No, we assumed she was with you,” Grace said with a smile. “I must say, Nigel and Andrea were miffed with you two for doing things this way. You should have spoken with them first, dear, so they wouldn’t worry.”
“I don’t know what you mean, Aunt Grace. I didn’t know she was staying. I came to tell her goodbye and see her off at the airport.”
“Oh, my,” the older woman murmured and tapped her lips with her fingers. “From what Andrea said, she thinks Amaya is with you. She asked me to look out for her if she returned here. Where do you suppose she is?”
Excitement filled Jason. “Perhaps at my place waiting for me. I hope so,” he said to eliminate the woman’s worries, because he knew Amaya was not at his waterside villa, or hadn’t been when he left there. “I love her, Aunt Grace, and I plan to marry her if she’ll have me. That sly woman snatched me right out of my saddle before I could think twice. Since she stayed behind as I pleaded, that must mean she loves me, too.”
Delighted by that news and Jason’s mood, Grace hugged him and kissed his cheek. “I’m so happy for you; she’s seems like such a nice girl. A pretty one, too. But she shouldn’t have worried everyone this way.”
“I’m sure she took off because she was afraid Nigel wouldn’t let her stay without permission from her parents and superior. If they call, tell them not to worry; I promise I’ll take very good care of Miss Amaya Saar.”