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Virtually Loved
“CND Control, this is Broadstone piloting SD 403 on final approach, requesting permission to land.”
The feminine voice of the Space Resort’s AI responded: “Permission granted. Enjoy your stay at CLUB NEVERDIE Space Resort!” A green dot popped up on the navigation console.
“Coordinates confirmed. Thanks Tina.” I made the adjustments manually and started the decent.
“My pleasure, Broad. Now that I got that out of the way, when are you going to dump that rust heap and get a place up here and stay with us? You’re here most of the time, and I know how you hate it planetside.”
Stella made a noise in my ear. “Like you’d ever give up flying Boss!”
I flipped the transmitter mic off with a fingertip.
“Shush. Let’s not start that again. At least wait till we drop off this load of passengers.”
Stella made another noise but desisted.
I flicked the mic back on. “Tina, you know that I love flying. Besides, I need the peds. I gotta eat you know.”
It was Tina’s turn to make a noise. “Okay, but WHEN you change your mind, I’ll hack the Estate AI and get you a nice place, cheap.”
“Thanks Hon.” I just smiled and switched off.
Stella was busy with landing preparations and didn’t say anything more.
The landing was as smooth as always. I left Stella to handle the details so I got up and ushered our passengers out with the usual thanks for flying with us. I wished them all good hunting, mining and to be sure to look us up again if they needed transportation.
That being the last trip up for the day I decided to go out for a while.
I asked Stella: “We need anything? I’m heading out to do some mining and maybe have dinner at CND.
Stella replied: “Just the usual and maybe that new generator you promised to get?”
I grinned. She always had to throw that one in…. It was a joke. She knew we didn’t need one yet. “I’ll see what’s available.” I grabbed my armor and mining gear and headed toward the main hatch.
Stella said in a small voice: “Boss?”
“Yes Stella?”
There was a pause… “You’d never sell me would you?”
“Not on my own life. I love you.”
I jumped off the ships ramp and said: “Stellar Dove 403, secure main hatch and shut down non essential systems”
Stella replied: “Command confirmed. I love you too.”
I was whistling as I went out onto the landing docks. I think I’ll stop by the Shops and buy that generator.
What’s real and what’s virtual anyway?
You can’t SEE love but you sure can feel it.
It’s all about what you feel.
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"Stuffs getting better. Stuffs getting better everyday." - from "The Postman".
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Beta South 2D, Shop No 56, 
Linear Mode
