Hooks

Flom turned to the team. “Everyone please welcome our Genetic Engineering Nucleus Investigator. Her work is the best in the galaxy. We are fortunate to have her aboard.”

Geni waited for their polite greetings to end. “Thank you, Commander. I have reviewed the available core samples. I asked Gabriel to run his time-line simulator. Unfortunately, none of these will achieve the desired result.”

Flom glared at the participants until they were quiet, then he asked, “What? Why?”

“We must go back further in time than you originally anticipated.” Geni paused. “Sir, you are, and will remain, Fleet Lead Operations Manager, but I must take control of this situation.” She stared at him until he nodded. “Thank you.”

She stood and paced. “Gabriel and his simulator must accompany me down to the planet. It would be best to have another two with us. Whom do you suggest?”

He looked at the assembly. “Any volunteers?”

Ariel nodded. “I’m willing to assist.”

Michael said, “I’ve been down there before and willing to do it again.” He pressed a button on the control panel. A typography screen appeared. He pointed out an area. “The natives call this mountain Wachusett. The English settlements are viewable from this location. I suggest this be our base of operations.”

Geni sat down. “I am exhausted and need to recharge my energy. Let the four of us meet tomorrow at oh say 600 in my cabin.”

***

Jane tied her long blonde hair into a ponytail then added a second rubber band at the end. She whacked off the tail and draped it over logs in the fireplace. Entering the kitchen, she dyed her cropped hair black and towel dried it. She put the empty container and towel into her tote. Slipping on tennies, she led Oliver outside and leashed him in the backyard. Jane removed the shoes and placed those on the doormat. She added chocolate-chip granola bars and her oversized water bottle to her tote. She put on new moccasins and picked up the tote. The cardboard box was broken up and added to the logs before she lit a match, started a fire, then pulled a throw rug closer. She picked up her keys and shut the front door. Checking her watch, she realized Jim could be here shortly and hurriedly walked away.

***

Susan used a pillow to muffle her sobs. As a dutiful daughter, she didn’t want her parents to hear. Lord, you know I will do as Father asks. I just can’t help being appalled. Why did he choose such an older man for my husband? Why not a younger one?

Mother looked exhausted when she came upstairs to wake Susan the next morning. “I’ve started on your bridal gown. Your father will ask the reverend today to read the banns this Sunday. We’ve only three weeks to get you ready.”

“Thank you. How may I help?”

She looked at me as I rose from the bed. “What you’re wearing is almost threadbare, so you need to cut out and sew a new nightgown, kirtle, plus two smocks. Your father gave me enough money to purchase the necessary fabrics.” She sighed. “He didn’t want your clothing to be an embarrassment. He’s happy that he made such a fine match for you.”