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“Is that what was wrong?” Kara asked, helping him gather the scattered tools.

“One of the issues. The main problem is with the primary cooling system. It’s functioning for now but I should replace some of the parts soon—they don’t have them on this station, but they can direct me to a supplier nearby.”

Rory had abandoned his arrangement and moved closer, watching as they packed away the tools. He tugged gently on her shirt, a question in his eyes.

“What is it, sweetheart?” she asked, crouching down to his level.

He pointed at Thraxar, then at the doorway leading out of the engine room, his meaning clear.

“He wants to know where you’re going next,” she translated, looking up at Thraxar.

“I need to visit the station’s commercial sector to arrange for the parts,” he replied, addressing Rory directly. “And to purchase supplies.”

Rory tugged on her shirt again, more insistently this time. His eyes were wide and hopeful.

“I think he wants to go with you,” she said, reading the familiar signals. “We’ve been cooped up on the ship since we left the mining colony.” She hesitated, suddenly uncertain. “Would that be all right? Or would we be in the way?”

Thraxar seemed surprised by the request. “You wish to accompany me?”

“If it’s not too much trouble,” she said. “Rory gets restless without a change of scenery, and honestly, so do I.” She smiled tentatively. “Besides, I might be able to help you find what you need.”

He considered this for a moment, his expression unreadable. “The station is relatively safe,” he said finally. “And having assistance would be… efficient.”

It wasn’t exactly enthusiastic, but she’d take it. “Thank you. We won’t slow you down.”

“I have no concerns about that,” he said, and there was something in his tone that made her think that perhaps he actually wanted their company. The thought was both surprising and oddly warming.

“We should clean up first,” she said, glancing down at her oil-stained hands and clothes. “Give us fifteen minutes?”

He nodded. “I’ll meet you at the airlock.”

As they separated to prepare, Kara found herself looking forward to exploring the station. It wasn’t just the prospect of a new environment after the confines of the mining colony and the ship—it was the company. Despite his initial gruffness, Thraxar had proven to be considerate, patient, and unexpectedly perceptive.

And then there was that kiss.

She touched her lips briefly, remembering the moment. It had been impulsive, born of gratitude and an attraction she hadn’t expected to feel again. But his response had been anything but casual—the intensity of it had startled them both.

In the small bathroom, she quickly washed the engine grease from her hands and face, then changed into one of the garments she’d fashioned from Thraxar’s donated clothing. She’d managed to create a tunic that fit her reasonably well, belted at the waist with a length of cord. It wasn’t fashionable, but it was clean and functional.

Rory was waiting by the door, rocking slightly on his heels with anticipation. She knelt and straightened his clothes, using a damp cloth to wipe a smudge from his cheek.

“Ready for an adventure?” she asked, smiling at his eager expression. “Remember, stay close to me or Thraxar, okay? No wandering off.”

He nodded solemnly, then reached for her hand.

When they arrived at the airlock, Thraxar was already waiting. He’d changed into what Kara assumed was his version of public attire—a fitted vest over a long-sleeved garment, with multiple pockets and attachments. A small weapon hung at his belt.

“You look… prepared,” she commented.

“It never hurts to be prepared. I will take no chances with your safety.”

As the airlock cycled open, she felt a flutter of anxiety. This would be their first time in public since their escape. What if someone recognized them? What if there were Vedeckians on the station?

He seemed to sense her unease. “This is a neutral commerce station,” he said quietly. “The security is adequate, and I am known here. You will be safe.”

She nodded, grateful for the reassurance. “Lead the way, then.”

The station corridor was wider than she’d expected, with high ceilings and soft ambient lighting. Various beings moved purposefully in both directions—some humanoid, others utterly alien. Rory stared in fascination, his grip on her hand tightening.