Kaylana sat beside her and grabbed her hand. “Don’t worry about it. They’re obviously insane. I’m not sure hiding has made them forget about you though. It may have increased their obsession.”
“Yeah. I guess I should just let them have what they want. An all-access pass to the heiress.” Aurora rolled her eyes. “Then maybe they’d leave me alone.” Aurora wished she believed it.
Kaylana changed the subject. “So once we’re in, what do you think our area of concentrations will be?”
Aurora looked out the window. “Depends on the aptitude placement test we took last month. But I’m sure you’ll be in the astronaut medical program.”
Luckily, Aurora and Kaylana both had intelligent parents with the means and motivation to educate them. As they grew older, Aurora, of course, had immersed herself in things like Meteorology, Astronomy, and Aviation virtual studies while Kaylana had focused on medical subjects.
“And hopefully I’ll get to fly.” Aurora’s heart felt lighter with the thought.
Silence descended as Aurora and Kaylana stared out the window.
It was fifty-five miles to Cape Canaveral, a city that boasted being the Home of Sun, Space, and Sea. When the Apollo Academy began searching for a home, they decided that it would be beneficial to purchase some of the land associated with the old government space program, NASA. It was the perfect place for the Academy to build their new education and launch center as it already had massive structures in place and room for the Apollo Alliance SpacePort.
Kaylana grasped Aurora’s hand, bringing her back to the present. “Babe, we’re in this together.”
Aurora squeezed her hand in return. “I know.”
The hovercar slowly stopped outside of the Apollo Academy’s main security gate. As soon as the doors automatically unlocked, Kaylana hopped out.
Taking several deep breaths, Aurora watched her lucky hot-pink tennis shoes, as their logo flashed in an ever-changing rainbow of bright colors. Feeling more prepared, she stepped out of the car.
The humid Florida air pressed down on her like the day’s importance. Determined to make her dreams come true, Aurora marched alongside the other potential cadets toward the security gate that sheltered the Apollo Academy. Even from a distance, the Academy’s sheer magnitude was impressive. She could just make out the swirling gold Academy logo, which stood out against a brilliantly white background. Aurora stared at the delicate symbol showcasing two intertwined A’s that twirled together with a shuttle and stars. It was a tease for her, to be allowed this close without knowing if she would be admitted further.
She slowly inhaled the salty ocean air, hoping to calm the rocket ships that had just launched in her stomach.
“Anyone figure out what this year’s initiation will be?” Aurora asked no one in particular. It didn’t really matter anyway. Aurora would do anything to fly. Anything to avoid the Titon Technologies public figurehead role her father so wanted from her.
“No idea,” a blond haired-boy with a French accent answered.
“Me either,” Aurora muttered. A bead of sweat ran down her back. She wasn’t used to standing in the sunlight, especially in such an open area, but the absence of the oppressive Orlando skyscrapers was liberating.
When the news reporters began to gather around the stage beside the gate, yelling and snapping pictures, Aurora concentrated on the podium and the woman that stood behind it. She would recognize Ms. Lovell anywhere. As the founder of the Apollo Academy and from a family who had made significant marks in aerospace history, she was unforgettable. Her dark brown hair was pulled into a tight bun, showcasing her olive skin and brown eyes.
Behind Ms. Lovell stood Aurora’s father, publicly showing his support for the Academy. As their largest contributor, he was allowed to be very involved with the school. She glanced away. She couldn’t even look at him right now.
Every time a camera’s shutter clicked, Aurora flinched.
“Welcome to the Apollo Academy.” Ms. Lovell smiled at the gathered crowd and potential cadets. “Each year we search for those who have a thirst for knowledge, tenacity for survival, and the courage to conquer our newest frontier. Those of you here today have passed the initial aptitude placement tests. You should be proud to have come this far.” Ms. Lovell focused on the gathered teenagers. “Those of you who make it through initiation will move into the Academy’s training facility. Those who fail will be excused immediately.”
Ms. Lovell motioned to the waiting hoverbus. “The bus will take you to the Apollo Alliance SpacePort where you will prove you belong here. This year’s initiation test will be,” she paused, skillfully building drama, “an unassisted skydive from fifteen-thousand feet.”
Aurora breathed a sigh of relief. She could do that. Hell, she was probably going to love it.
“We need to know our new recruits have what it takes to overcome fear, and more importantly, that you’re physically able to handle the burdens of space flight. Though the world needs you all, some of you will not pass. Everyone, please get onboard and prove you have what it takes. Good luck!”
As the group around Aurora headed for the bus, reporters yelled questions toward the podium. Aurora didn’t know how Ms. Lovell understood a single word they said, but she graciously addressed them, just as comfortable in the spotlight as Aurora’s father.
As usual, her father was busy answering questions with Ms. Lovell, probably using the opportunity to promote Titon Technologies in some way. Aurora rolled her eyes. Like the company wasn’t already the largest tech candy provider.
For a second, she allowed herself to picture her mother alive, cheering her on from the sidelines. The blurry image of her quickly faded; she didn’t even remember what her own mom looked like. Aurora pushed the sting of loss away, turning her attention back to the task before her: she was going skydiving. A real skydive, not some sort of simulation.
This is going to be so nova! Aurora’s heart raced. This was way better than swimming with sharks. Aurora bumped Kaylana’s shoulder.
“You okay?” Aurora asked.
Kaylana only nodded as they walked toward the bus quietly hovering above the black pavement.
“Kay, you’ll be fine. I promise.” Aurora wasn’t afraid of heights. There would be moments of pure terror, but there was no need to mention that because those moments would be separated by ones of total exhilaration. “It will be fun. We can do this!” She pumped a hand in the air, but when Aurora looked around she saw many with pale, scared faces.
A very lean, tall guy with jet black hair drew her attention. He was eerily familiar. As soon as his dark clothing and combat boots registered, she gasped.
His gray eyes snapped to hers, but his handsome, chiseled face remained impassive. When she realized she had stopped walking and was staring at him, she looked away, blood rushing to her cheeks.
He was the guy from last night, but Aurora had no idea what he was doing here, or if he even recognized her. She touched her face; she looked nothing like she had last night. Her face was natural, no longer hidden behind makeup and glitter. And her red hair was pulled tightly back in a French braid, not left wild and free.
Embarrassed, Aurora ran to catch up with Kaylana. Would he be going to school with her? The thought brought more rocket ships to her stomach.
Aurora found Kaylana already seated at the back of the bus, her hands twisted together. Aurora wasn’t one to usually gush about a boy, but it would certainly keep Kaylana’s mind off the upcoming jump. “You won’t believe who I just saw.”
“Who?” Kaylana’s brow puckered.
“Remember the guy from Beat?”
“You mean the one you were all over?” Kaylana wiggled her eyebrows.
Aurora nodded, remembering their dance.
“Yeah,” Kaylana said. “I’m sorry about that.”
“Don’t be. I would’ve been yelling for you if I couldn’t find you. Besides, he’s the one that left without saying goodbye.” Or giving his name. She
shrugged nonchalantly. She so didn’t need to be thinking about this right now.
The door to the hoverbus closed. Instead of sitting down like a normal person, she took a moment to scan for the boy, trying to come to terms with the thought that he could be training with her for the next two years.
He was sitting at the front of the bus and must have felt her eyes on him because he turned around and caught her staring. Again.
The hoverbus began to accelerate, and Aurora toppled into the occupied seat next to her.
“Watch it!” A pretty girl with blonde hair and brown eyes snapped.
Aurora quickly stood up. “Sorry. Didn’t mean to bump you.” She bit her lip, unsure of what to say because the girl was looking at her with open disdain. She held her hand out, hoping to start over. “What’s your name? I’m Aurora.”
The girl rolled her eyes. “I’m Hailen. And we all know who you are.” She looked away.
Aurora’s eyes narrowed on the back of Hailen’s head. What. The. Hell. While she had expected this response, she’d hoped she might have a fresh start, one free of any pre-conceived impressions people would hold against her. She should have known better.
Of course she didn’t have the courage to say anything. Aurora kept her mouth shut and quickly sat down next to Kaylana.
“Ignore her,” Kaylana said.
Aurora nodded, looking out the window. They were almost to the SpacePort and Aurora wasn’t going to let anyone ruin her focus. She’d spent her whole life dreaming of the world above her. She wouldn’t fail now. There was something mysterious about the stars that she needed to figure out, as if once she reached them, she would find the little piece of her soul that had always been missing. Now all she had to do was jump out of a perfectly good airplane to do it.
When the bus pulled to a stop a few minutes later, Aurora carefully made her way down the aisle, making sure she didn’t bump into anyone.
The SpacePort was unlike anything Aurora had ever seen. Its main building was a large circular dome that was an artful blend of aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, and self-cleaning glass that was lit with bright neon lights. Its shape was similar to a spherical geodesic dome with what she could only describe as a “bite” taken out of the front where the flight line was located. The whole facility was surrounded by launch pads and runways.
“It’s beautiful.” She turned and looked at Kaylana who was beginning to look pale again. Aurora grabbed her hand and squeezed. “Just one jump and we’ll both be in.”
Kaylana attempted a smile. “Yeah, don’t worry. I wouldn’t let you go anywhere without me.”
A very well built man of maybe thirty years stepped forward, demanding their attention. “I’m Coach Harris. I’ll be handling everyone’s jump today, and if you pass, I’ll be in charge of your physical training for the next two years.” He rubbed his hands together. “Now, everyone, get into a flight suit and parachute, and we’ll be on our way.”
Aurora grabbed her gear, and while Coach Harris checked over the chute on her back, Aurora felt eyes on her once again. It wasn’t an uncommon feeling, but it didn’t mean she liked it. She looked up and found him watching.
Maybe he was remembering their dance? With her luck, Aurora guessed he was probably just figuring out who her father was.
When he began walking toward her, she backed up, right into Coach Harris.
She felt her cheeks turn crimson. “Sorry, I, uh . . . ”
“That’s all right. I’m done. You’re good to go.” Coach Harris waved the boy forward, but he didn’t move. He was still looking at her.
“Hi, I’m Zane.” He extended his hand.
She hesitantly held her hand out. “I’m Aurora.” As his hand grasped hers, Aurora noticed dark stains beneath his fingernails. It looked like oil of some sort. When he noticed her curious stare, he yanked his hand away.
Aurora swallowed as his face shut down. “Do you remember—”she started.
“It’s nice to meet you.” He turned back to Coach Harris, who was checking his chute.
What did that mean? Does he remember me?
With a slow nod, Aurora turned away. Was she that forgettable? What was wrong with her? Usually, she wanted to go unnoticed. But why did he have to be the one to forget her?
She pushed those thoughts away and searched for Kaylana, which wasn’t too hard because her bright, blonde hair and height gave her away. Together they walked toward the big, bulky Taurus II, nicknamed “The Bull,” which waited on the tarmac. On top of the aircraft sat four ducted tilt fans, combining the aerodynamic capabilities of a helicopter with a cargo-carrying airplane. Quite the revolutionary design. The airplane’s nose art was spectacular too. A large coffee-colored bull boldly stood in defiance, its head lowered, chin tucked in, and nose crinkled in anger. Beautiful white wings arched away from its back, poised for flight, while his front right leg pawed the ground in agitation.
Aurora followed the cadets to the rear-loading cargo door, which was down, allowing them easy boarding access. She walked up the ramp and kept moving through the cargo hold and past cadets until she had a clear view of the sleek glass cockpit. The pilots were going through their pre-ignition checklist. The co-pilot glanced down at the electronic tablet strapped to his knee, looking at the checklist for the next item.
Duh, turn the master switch on, she thought. After the co-pilot verified the checklist, she watched his hand flick the master switch to the on position.
“All right, everyone take a seat.” Coach Harris’s baritone voice grabbed her attention. His face was completely serious as he gave his intimidating version of a pep talk. “We’ll leave the rear door open, so it’ll get a little windy in here. Once we’re up, everyone jumps.” He looked them in the eye. “If you can’t get over your fear of falling at almost two hundred miles an hour, then you certainly won’t make a good astronaut. We need people who can think through fear. We want survivors!” He pumped his fist into the air and Aurora realized he believed every word he said. “We want those who will survive in extreme situations! You think twice at that door and you’re out of our program!” The Taurus’s engines roared to life as if to emphasize his point.
When the downwash from the large blades circulated through the back cabin, it was a sweet relief from the Florida heat. Aurora inhaled deeply, relishing the scent of briny ocean air, synthetic fuel, oil, and leather. It was the smell of aviation, of freedom.
She longed for freedom. In the past eighteen years, Aurora rarely left the Titon Technologies tower. The spontaneous outing the night before had been an exception. She didn’t care about being an heiress; she just wanted to live her own life, without people watching her out of some weird fascination.
Aurora shook her head, realizing deep in her heart that the only time she would truly feel free would be when her feet actually left the ground.
The pilot pushed the throttles of the airplane forward, and a moment later they were airborne. Aurora instantly felt alive. A huge grin stayed plastered across her face as the aircraft smoothly gained altitude. Kaylana gaped at her like she had lost her mind as the airplane climbed and then climbed some more. As they flew higher, no one spoke, and the wind moving through the back of the airplane grew progressively colder.
At fifteen thousand feet, the Taurus hovered at altitude, allowing the skydivers to drop from a single spot so they wouldn’t be scattered over a changing flight path. The red light above the cockpit door changed to bright neon-green, and Coach Harris stood.
“All right, it’s time. Your techiwatch has an altimeter function on it. Turn it on now.”
Aurora touched the glass screen on her bulky white watch and programmed an altitude reminder. When she finished, she looked at Coach Harris who studied the cadet candidates huddled in front of him.
“How ‘bout ladies first? Anyone want to volunteer?”
No one moved.
His piercing gaze stopped on Kaylana. Aurora’s stomach dropped. Kaylana’s shoulders were tensed and he
r hands were in fists.
Aurora stepped forward without even realizing she moved, pulling his attention to her. “I’ll go.” She swallowed. It was probably the first time in her life that she had willingly drawn attention to herself. She’d prove to Kaylana that everything would be okay.
Coach Harris seemed surprised but motioned her forward. He bent down to her ear, allowing her to hear him over the wind. “Pull your chute at three-thousand feet, stay over the SpacePort, and don’t drift or the buildings over Orlando will get in your way.”
Aurora pushed away her nervousness and didn’t make the mistake of looking down. She reminded herself that if she didn’t jump, she wouldn’t get to fly and she’d be forced to go home and learn the family business. No way in hell was that happening.
This was it. Aurora didn’t look back. Her future was below.
She jumped.
ZANE
Zane’s heart raced, and he didn’t think it had anything to do with the fact that he was about to jump from fifteen-thousand feet. Aurora, the girl he’d met the night before at Beat, the one he couldn’t stop thinking about, actually volunteered to jump first. He felt a sudden urge to stop her, but it was too late.
He could only watch as she jumped with a huge smile on her face, her red and gold hair leaving a trail of fire behind her. He rationalized with himself that she would be safe. Even if she forgot to pull her chute, it would automatically deploy at three thousand feet. They certainly didn’t tell any of the potential cadets that, probably as an additional scare tactic, but he knew the safety feature was there.
Coach Harris yelled, “Who’s next?”
They might have taken him out of a uniform and called him Coach, but this guy was right out of the military.
When no one volunteered, he yelled, “All right then, we’ll just file out one by one.” Coach Harris waved to the blond-haired boy closest to the door. He quickly jumped, and a few minutes later they were single file jumping, one after another.
The Apollo Academy Page 3
