by Imogene Nix
“Miss Edgemont? Gillian?” The woman who she’d been dealing with since applying for the job was waving her arms from within the security lounge, her face wreathed in smiles. “It’s so good to have you here finally. Now let’s collect your things and I can take you to your accommodations.”
The fast talking woman left Gillian reeling. “Yeah, I only have a few bags.”
“That’s fine, Gillian. I may call you that, can’t I? Of course, I’m Elvira, and you’ll be sharing my office. It’s so good to have another woman on the team. This place is a little ‘male oriented’ if you get my meaning.”
Elvira grasped the handles of the suitcases and hauled them up as if they were light. Gillian felt sick, realizing that she’d accepted this posting for the next six, very long months. It was going to be an excruciating time, and she hoped that unwelcome and unaccustomed claustrophobia didn’t get her between now and then.
“Your room is in the nearest wing. We need to be able to get to the communications center quickly. But don’t worry about that today, there’s plenty of time to think about work tomorrow.”
Gillian let Elvira talk while they walked. The distance wasn’t that far, yet it felt like being escorted to her execution. The hallway was, she’d read, a life support tube, which had sufficient oxygen and supplies to keep fifty alive for six weeks, but it felt like it was shrinking around her, cutting off her air.
“You are okay, aren’t you, Gillian? Living in an enclosed atmosphere isn’t for everyone.” Elvira pushed the door open and stared at her.
“I’ll be fine. I just need a decent sleep and to start work.” The smile she gave was false; she could feel it stretching across her face, and Elvira was obviously not convinced.
“Well… If you say so. I’ll pop by for you in the morning and help you find the office and your way around. If you need anything, I’m extension five-one-zero-nine, dear. Now a quick shower, unpack, and bed is probably your best plan.”
Gillian shut the door behind the woman and heaved her bags to the bed. She unpacked as quickly as she could, refusing to think as she shoved clothes into the small chest of drawers then dumped the empty cases on the floor. With a sigh, Gillian slumped onto the bed of her appointed accommodations.
The communicator on the bedside buzzed and she picked up the handset without thinking. “Hello?”
“Gillian, it’s Kumi here. Kumi Ito. Look, it’s not really… I shouldn’t have called, but you needed to be warned. Tomi is on his way.”
Stunned, Gillian gaped as the base unit, her mouth open. The butterflies she thought she’d conquered took flight in her belly.
“Gillian, are you there?”
“I… Yes. But why? Why is he coming here? I mean…” The words were barely coherent and her mind whirled. He’s coming here? To Vega II?
“Because he’s a fool in love, Gillian.” Kumi’s voice softened. “After you left… Once he knew, he had his team cancel everything, every appointment. He organized to catch the next shuttle, but he couldn’t find one. He was beside himself. So he chartered one. He could be there as early as tomorrow.” Then there was silence.
Gillian covered her mouth with her wobbling hand.
“You do love him, don’t you?”
Tears pricked Gillian’s eyes. “I… Yes, Kumi, I do. I always have, but he’s never shown—”
“He’s a man, Gillian. One who was taught about responsibility from a very young age. Our father and grandfather constantly told him that he had a great and important future on Reunion. So he has always put that before his own needs and those closest. It’s not a fault, it’s just him. If you love him, give him a chance. Please.”
Scalding tears escaped, dribbling their way down her cheeks. “He never said. Not once.”
“Men don’t, and you should know that by now.”
Gillian found herself smiling at Kumi’s truculent words. “So how did you find out then?” She gave a sniffle and rolled her eyes at the way she was behaving. You’d think this is my first crush.
“With Tomi, it was easy. He’s been like a cat on a hot tin roof around you since you first appeared. With Carmichael? It wasn’t that simple. Much like you, I didn’t trust myself or my emotions. Gillian, if you want Tomi, you’re going to have to take a chance.”
Kumi was right. “Yeah, I know. Look, I need to go now. I have lots to do.” And lots to think about.
“Not a problem. Just don’t tell Tomi I called. He thinks I get too involved in his affairs as it is.” With that, Kumi broke the connection and Gillian couldn’t help a smile at her parting words, but it faded away. If only it was all that simple.
* * * *
Tomi’s heart rate spiked. Walking through the cavernous tubes to the communications center via the residential section was intriguing, and he arched his neck here and there.
He’d been on space stations and other planets in the course of his work, but none had been so utilitarian in nature. Vega II had only recently been colonized, now that the Federation scientists had the atmosphere dome technology locked down. Previously, it had been very hit or miss, with some tragedies during the early testing phases. But knowing how far the science had come didn’t make him feel any more secure.
“Sir, watch the cording.” The guard who’d been assigned to Tomi touched his shoulder.
Tomi blinked. The area they were walking through was under secondary construction since Vega II was also the home of the Federation’s terra forming experiments. “I’m sorry, I was thinking.”
“Yes, sir. It’s just, while they’re working, it’s important to be aware.” The young officer’s cautionary words brought Tomi up. He was right of course.
“Where is the communication section housed?”
“Oh, it’s just ahead, sir. I’ll take you there once we have you settled in a set of rooms.”
Tomi really didn’t give a frig whether he had a suite or not. He just wanted to see Gillian, assure himself of her safety. Then, maybe, he could convince her to come home. Except this time, home meant to him. Suddenly his lips and mouth dried.
So close and yet still so far to go, his mind whispered. I will make her believe me. But what if she didn’t share his feelings? His stomach bottomed out. Kumi was rarely wrong about such things. The fluttering of a million tiny butterfly wings took flight in his belly. What if I’m wrong?
The officer stopped. “This will be your accommodation, sir. Next door is Elvira Durane, and on the other, the new communications officer. I have to say, she’s a looker.”
The words intruded on Tomi’s consciousness. “A looker?”
“Yeah, she’s gorgeous with deep red hair. Most of the guys think she’s the hottest thing we’ve ever had on Vega II.”
“Really? And her name would be?”
“Gillian Edgemont. The rest of the officers are taking bets at who will hook up with her.”
Tomi didn’t like the turn this conversation was taking. “Well, I’m sure she’s here to do a job, not participate in the sexploits of Vega II.”
The young officer looked stunned and a bright red crest colored his cheeks. Tomi almost felt sorry. His tone had been cutting, but to think of them seeing Gillian like that... There was very little respect, and he’d be pleased to get her away from here. Back to Reunion, but this time in the safety of his arms.
“Sir. Yes, sir.” Coming to attention, the young man opened the door. “The office isn’t far from here.”
This time, they moved at a brisk pace without any verbal commentary, and within minutes they stood at the large entryway. Tomi was ushered into the security zone and waved through on presentation of his credentials.
“Sir, if you’ll come this way.” A large, chocolate skinned woman smiled at him. “My name is Elvira, and I believe you are here to see—”
“Gillian Edgemont. Yes. We will need some privacy. There is a free office?”
The woman frowned deeply. “Well…”
“It’s important I speak to her on a
matter of urgency.”
“Of course, Senator. I’ll take you through to the private meeting room.” She opened a door and led him down a long hallway, his footsteps clattering on the metal flooring. The woman opened a door at the end and he took in the utilitarian room filled with a long metal meeting table and modular seating. “I’ll get Gillian for you.”
He knew she wasn’t happy about the situation, but he didn’t care. Gillian was close by.
Waiting was difficult. He lowered himself into a seat, only to find his foot jiggling. He stood, pacing in one direction then the other. A notice on the wall caught his eye and he’d just stepped up to it when the door opened.
“Senator Ito? You wanted to see me?”
He turned suddenly and there she was, framed in the doorway. Her cheeks pink, her eyes sparkling. Everything he could ever ask for.
* * * *
The handle of the door was cold as Gillian prepared herself. Thankfully, Elvira hadn’t felt the need to accompany her, so she had time. One deep breath then another. Gods, she hoped Kumi was right.
With great care, she twisted the knob and pushed the door open. He was looking at the wall. “Senator Ito? You wanted to see me?” She nearly cursed her own clumsiness at the poor greeting.
“Gillian.” He sounded strangled and, for the first time since she’d met him, there was an uncertainty about him.
One step into the room, then another while she gazed at him.
“The door?”
His voice broke the trance she’d lost herself in and she nodded before reaching out and shutting it with a bang.
“Come here, please.”
Gillian complied in silence. When she was finally face to face with him, she gazed deeply into his eyes. “What are we—”
“I missed you. You left without even saying goodbye.”
Her stomach quivered as the breath of his words whispered over her lips. “I…”
“Why did you leave? Why did you leave me behind?”
“I didn’t think it was important to you. I mean… I work… I worked for you, but that was all.” How much should she tell him? Spilling her guts about the depths of her feelings without something to guide her seemed both silly and overly ambitious.
He watched her, his brown eyes flicking from side to side as if he were trying to read her face. “Was it, Gillian?” The words were soft and drugging, rather like the taste of his breath. His lips were so close, and she could see the tiny flecks in his eyes.
“I… What do you want from me?” She couldn’t stop the whispered question and he smiled.
“Are you ready for the answer? Because once I give that, I can’t go back and neither can you.” His hand shook as it touched her cheek lightly.
“Yes. Give me the answer.”
He smiled, full lips tugging up at the corners, and she was sure they found some corresponding bit of her heart and the tiny muscles in the depths of her being. “I want everything. I want…” He inhaled deeply, his eyes closing involuntarily, as if he were welcoming her very essence.
Her knees turned watery and she put out a hand, seeking support. It found his arm and clutched.
“Gillian.” His eyes opened and gazed at her. She drowned, lost in their connection, as he slowly caressed her cheek.
He’s going to kiss me! It was a shriek of exultation that reverberated through her mind. Her breathing shallower, she swayed in his direction.
Knock. Knock.
Gillian sprang away and watched his face even as she answered the summons. “Who… Who is it?”
“It’s Elvira, dear. May I come in?”
Tomi—‘Senator Ito’ her beleaguered mind shouted— didn’t look impressed. His mouth flattened and his eyes sparked with anger.
“Uh, yes. Come in.”
The door slid open with a squeak and Gillian glanced at the woman as Tomi spoke. “Ma’am?”
“Senator, given the time, the chief communications officer asked me to relay an invitation to join him for lunch.”
The woman had worked out there was a strong emotion in the air. Gillian nearly giggled at the situation. Even a blind man could see there was something going on!
“If you could please inform the CCO that I must decline. I need to talk at length with Miss Edgemont. However, if we could arrange for catering at my suite...”
“It’s automated in the room. Gillian knows how to work it.” Elvira smiled knowingly.
Gillian started at his words. “But… Sir, I have work.”
“Nonsense. You go along with the nice senator and we’ll catch up later.”
Elvira bustled from the room, but not before Gillian caught the double entendre. Catch up? She wants to wring every bit of gossip from me.
As the door shut, Tomi strode forward. “Lock it.”
Her breath caught. “What?”
“I said, lock the door.”
Used to following his instructions, she did. Before she could turn, his hands clasped her shoulders and spun her back to face him. “Now, to continue…” His lips descended and touched hers.
* * * *
Gillian’s soft lips were finally beneath his. They were full and luscious. They were mobile as he moved tentatively, learning their contours.
The touch of her fingers wrapping themselves into the lapel of his jacket made him feel like a king. Gillian was in his arms and it was right.
For several long moments, he wallowed in the sensations of holding her close, of tasting her, and after she opened her mouth, the deep moist cavern of honey. Then reality intruded and he pulled away. She shivered and he smiled at the hectic color that flushed her cheeks.
“What?” She stepped back slowly, raising her fingertips to her lips. “Why did… Oh my Gods! Kumi said something, didn’t she?”
He frowned. Why would Gillian’s first thoughts be for Kumi? A suspicion formed. “Why did you just ask about Kumi? Have you been in contact with her?”
Gillian answered him with a guilty look and duck of her head.
Frustration rose, burning him. “Damn it all. Why did you talk to Kumi and not me?”
“I… How was I…” She turned away and shook her head. “I don’t even know what this means. You turn up here and kiss me. Is this supposed to be a visit with benefits? Official? Unofficial?”
Her words pained him on every level. Everything she asked was valid. But it hurt that she had to ask. “Gillian, stand still and—”
She whirled around. Her eyes flashed a deep emerald and he was entranced. “What? To be honest, when Kumi contacted me—”
“She contacted you? When?”
Gillian stilled, her chest moving rapidly as she sucked in oxygen. Her face shone pink with embarrassment. “Look, she contacted me. It was pretty much right after I got here. She wanted to let me know you were on the way.”
“So you knew.” Blast Kumi and her interfering ways! Anger coursed hot and heady, and he was determined, some day soon, he’d call his sister to account. It isn’t any of her bloody business! “So who else knew I was coming? Did you setup the young officer? That bloody Elvira?”
“What do you mean about… No!” Gillian backed away. “I don’t know what you want. Kumi just wanted to let me know that you would be here.”
He felt hurt that Kumi thought she should meddle. He growled and blinked, attempting to wash off his anger. “What’s the time?” He glanced at his chrono, but was struck that he really didn’t have a clue as to the time here on Vega II.
“It’s thirteen hundred. I can show you to the officer’s mess if you’d like.”
She spoke stiffly, and he sighed, realizing he’d insulted her. He needed to weigh his options, and had a fair suspicion that by now, tongues would be wagging. “No, I think it’s best you and I talk in privacy.”
Gillian frowned and opened her mouth before he raised a hand.
“Trust me, there are things we need to discuss.”
Gillian nodded. “So where are you staying?”
&nb
sp; “Next door to you.” A spurt of pleasure jolted him as she glanced up, obviously startled.
She huffed. “Okay then. Let’s get out of here.”
Gillian wrenched on the door and he smiled, once more entranced in the sight of her delectable form leading the way. As always in the past, his gaze dipped to her derriere and he imagined it naked with his fingers gripping the soft skin. He started to sweat and his body reacted, tightened, and began the deep throb that he associated with her.
Making their way across the quadrangle took very little time, and soon they were at his room. He fished in his pocket for the small key device he’d been given and it slid open. “Come on in and we can order something to eat.”
The door closed behind them and he looked around. “How do I…”
Gillian smiled, though it was only a ghost. “Let me do it.” She made her way to a tiny communicator in the corner of the main room. “It’s Gillian Edgemont in Senator Ito’s suite. I’d like to place an order.”
Tomi tuned out, watching the way she grinned and toyed with a loose strand of red hair.
Her style was different, he noted with surprise. She wore a communications uniform of black, but it molded to her body like a glove, outlining her delicious curves. She’d lost weight recently. She hadn’t had what he’d consider extra padding, but now she’d become finer, more delicate and, to his mind, fragile. Her hair wasn’t in its usual knot either; instead, it was loosely tied back with a clip. It made her seem more approachable and sexier than ever. None of these thoughts were helping as his body ached.
“Are you okay, Senator?”
He realized she’d been watching him for some time. “Yes, but you’ve changed.”
Gillian colored and he was delighted. “Well, different environment. Here I’m not running a senator’s office. I’m just…”
His happy mood was chased away. “I didn’t want you to go. I fought it, you know.”
Gillian turned her back on him. “I didn’t. It hurt that you didn’t talk to me. It was a slap in the face.” When she looked in his direction once more, the pain in her eyes speared him.
