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“Charlie,” Maklr said, exasperated.

“Now, don’t get mad.”

Maklr rubbed his eyes. “What did you do?”

“I talked to the Sovereign.”

“About?” Maklr sat back on the couch. “Not about me, I hope.”

“About you. You’ve been working yourself all hours. It’s taking its toll. You’re on leave until you’re rested.”

“I can’t leave. I have responsibilities.”

Yes, you do, but you can, and you will take leave. You’ve worked yourself into the ground. A quick getaway and a change of scenery will be good for you.” Charlotte shrugged. “Something to recharge your batteries.”

Maklr groaned. “Another weird human expression. Who else is going to do everything that needs to be done around here? Sovereign Giald named me the head of this project. We haven’t fully furnished or planned the center’s new areas. Who else is going to take care of the injured?”

“Well, it’s a done deal. You’re going and that’s final.”

“Who is going to check on the wounded? I’m the head medic. Their health is my responsibility.”

“Who do you think took care of everyone while you slept? Maklr, you’ve trained everyone here. We know the high standards you set and we’re all capable of performing the same quality of care you do. Besides, you may be in charge of their physical health, but I’m in charge of everyone’s mental health,” Charlotte pushed back. “As such, it’s a done deal. You’re going on a vacation and that’s the Sovereign and my final word. You’re not to return until you’ve fully rested.”

Maklr huffed. “What’s in the bag? Who packed it?”

“Don’t huff. It’s unbecoming.” Charlotte gestured to the packed sack. “See for yourself.”

Maklr unzipped the top of the bag and began pulling out clothes. “These are my clothes! Who went into my residence?”

Charlotte chuckled. “No one. I packed them from here. Did you know how many clothes you have in the center? I think you’ve got an entire wardrobe in your office.” She reached forward and placed her hand on Maklr’s knee. “No one needed to go to your house because you practically live here. Mak, you spend almost all of your waking hours in this center. It’s time to take care of yourself.”

“I do.”

“No. You’re going through the motions. Believe me, I know what it’s like. Please listen, you’re too wound up, you’re on edge, and that’s the time you’ll start to make mistakes. If I’ve learned anything in my life, I know when to take a step back and reassess how to make a positive change.”

Maklr rubbed his temples. “Do you really think I’m pushing myself too far?”

“I do. Be honest with yourself. You don’t have to answer out loud, but do you think you’re providing the same care to all incoming patients now that you did when you were stationed on a ship, or when we brainstormed ideas for this rehab center?”

“You’re doing this for me?”

“I am.” Charlotte repacked the bag. “Come on.” She stood and handed Maklr the bag. “Shuttle’s waiting.”

“Shuttle? I thought…” Maklr trailed off.

Charlotte winked. “I believe you’ll like the pilot.” She walked through the door, leaving Maklr to quicken his pace to keep up.

“Where am I going?”

“I took the liberty of getting you a much needed break, and now you’re asking questions. Can’t it be a surprise?”

“Charlie, you know how I feel about surprises. I like routine. I need a schedule. This is a nightmare.”

“Fine. Only because I know you’ll protest, there’s a resort called Boulderbark Retreat.”

Maklr shook his head. “Never heard of it.”

“It’s not on this continent.”