Gravitational Constantly: A Novella
Page 10
I finished my drink and signaled to the waiter. His dry eyes and apathetic speed spoke volumes about his desire to cater to broken-down drunks waiting to flounder back to Earth. Nevertheless, he brought two drinks to our table and sat them in front of us without a word.
“Do you remember when the three of us went out to the solar fields for the first time?” I asked Jayce.
He looked at his watch and took a sip of the scotch. “Of course.”
“We ran all the way to the terminal to catch the shuttle car. Cara and I laughed the entire way, like kids, pushing our way through the crowd, trying to keep up with you.”
“Andy …”
“She was so full of life, wasn't she? People like that don't come around too often. People like us, Jayce.”
“No, I guess they don't.” Jayce checked his watch again. “Well, I should probably make my way to the shuttle. Are you sure you won't come with me?”
I smiled and looked out to the sea of stars once more, suddenly sick of seeing them. “Good luck in New Mexico.”
Jayce finished his drink and set the glass down. He smiled at me while he straightened his tie and buttoned his jacket; that smile that was genuine, bright, and full of life. He smiled like Cara did, often and honest. “You know, I was right about you. The first time I met you, I told you that we were destined to do great things together. We've just scratched the surface.” He clapped me on the shoulder and gave a squeeze. “I'll see ya around, Andy Wright.”
Jayce walked out of Cosmos without looking back. I sat for a time, listening to the girl playing guitar and singing words I could not understand. Outside the dome view the sun was coming up over Earth, and the light was unfolding in my mind, illuminating the path before me and calling me home. Earth was pulling me back down, and I was bound to the rules of gravity. I turned my glass over and set it next to Jayce's. I laid a generous tip on the table and told the waiter to spend it on the next girl that came in, the one that slips in without you noticing and is there just long enough to distract you from the nothingness outside.
The End
Thanks for taking your precious time to read my book. No, seriously. I’m absurdly aware of how valuable everyone’s time is, and it is an honor that you spent it with my story. If you liked what you read, or if I piqued your curiosity about what I’m working on or writing next, please follow the link below to join my monthly mailing list via e-mail. See you in the stars!
Join J.A. Weddle's Mailing List