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“Miss, I have to. It’s for your safety.”

Nell trembled. “Don’t touch me.”

“It’s my job, I have to.”

“I can do it myself.”

“Unfortunately, regulations state you cannot.”

She jutted her thumb in Maklr’s direction. “I trust him. He can do it.”

The employee glanced between the two. “Unfortunately,” he began.

“Screw the regulations,” Maklr ground out. “I’ll do it. I’ve stripped many soldiers in my time as a medic.”

“You’re a warrior?” the young Klagan asked. “Yes. I served on The Fearless. Now I run the medical center on Eoris.”

“You’re Maklr.” The youth’s voice was reverent. “You saved my brother. Of course if she wants you to strap her in, you can.”

Maklr nodded. “Nell, I’m going to reach for the harness between your knees and make sure you’re in,” Maklr said. He narrated each step as he performed the actions. His knuckles brushed over her breasts as the straps clamped together with a satisfying clink.

“Here’s her helmet. It’s designed for a human.” The employee handed it to Maklr. “Make sure it buckles under her chin.”

“Thank you,” Nell whispered.

“Would you tell me why later?” Maklr asked.

“Maybe.”

They stood together on the ledge, harnessed on the line.

“There’s a safety net, so if something should happen to the line, you’ll be safe. It’ll let us know that you need assistance,” the employee said.

Nell’s feet teetered on the edge.

“Are you having second thoughts,” Maklr asked. “We can turn back now, it’s not too late.”

“I want to,” Nell said.

“Would you like me to go first?” Maklr offered.

From behind them, the employee called out, “Sometimes couples choose to go together. You can go at the same time.”

Nell glanced at Maklr. “At the same time?” She held her hand out. “Together.”

Maklr grasped her hand in his. “Together.”

A heartbeat later, they leaped off the platform. Air whooshed over their faces. An expression of pure joy covered Nell’s face. She laughed at the antics of some birds in the air flying into the safety net below. They descended slowly, their hands remaining clasped together. With their free hands, they pointed out unique features of the landscape. Below them, a field of bright blue wildflowers grew on the ground. Small lakes, ponds and a waterfall appeared in their line of sight.

“Look,” called Nell. “It’s got a beach at the basin.”

“Beautiful,” Maklr said.

At the final landing Maklr unstrapped first. Before removing Nell’s harness he cupped her cheek with his palm. “You did amazing,” he said. “I’m so proud of you.” His head leaned forward pressing his forehead against hers.

“Excuse me, I have a question.” Nell walked up to the second employee.

“How can I help?” the Klagan female asked.