Choice of the Gallant - Paradox Equation I

by Sharon L Reddy

  ****

  Dutch walked onto the bridge and knew he hadn't changed things yet because Lane was expecting him. He still intended to make one though.

  "Lane, I've had it. It's like a polar zone between you two. I can't function in this atmosphere. I'm freezing. I can't stay out of it any longer. I want to know what's going on."

  "Dutch, it'll work out. It's necessary. He'll get through it. It's going to be rough. Be there when he needs you. He'll even forgive me someday."

  "Some explanation. Dammit, Lane, I want more!"

  "I asked him, no, told him to do something that goes against every instinct he has. Everything he is. I'm counting on him to finish the job right. If he does, the war will end. If he can't do it, it's going to pull more systems in, then the Empire, then the Federation."

  "It's why you pulled us out. You saw it coming."

  "Yes. I stalled it. I rescued the young man piloting the experimental ship that would have been the trigger. Even after he engaged the self-destruct, there would have been enough left to... I hoped that would be it, but it wasn't. There's only one image that leads out of interstellar warfare. It depends on Clete making a woman who fears him love him. Love him so much she'll do anything for him. Love him enough to live for him."

  "I'll get back to work. I'll be there, Lane, but you be there too. He won't get through it without you. You understand. I can only care."

  "He won't want me. I don't remember being there."

  "Good. I'm making this change. Same way I helped make the first one when you thought you were going bye-bye."

  Lane stared at him with his mouth open.

  "Dad didn't need much, Lane. Just a reminder you'd already lived with the pain long enough."

  "Dutch, you're amazing."

  "Yeah. And cute too."