Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Thirteen

 

Declan stares into his closet in complete bewilderment, unsure of what to wear to Isla’s party. Anxiously, he considers what might still fit and look somewhat good on him. Acknowledging that it’s been a while since he last went out with friends, he suspects the outfit he wore ten years ago might not quite fit in.

 

He smirks, wondering why men’s fashion ever has to change. He would be happy wearing the same outfit every day; it would make no difference to him. He wouldn’t have to choose—everything would simply be ready to go.

 

He throws his head back and growls to himself, rubbing his gruff three-day-old beard and contemplating a shave for longer than he should.

 

 “So much effort,” he mutters. He tilts his head from side to side in the mirror, lowering his jawline and contorting his mouth into obtuse angles.

 

He pours some gel into his hands and applies it to his face. The gel spreads evenly through the pores of his skin, forming a plexi-mask. He gently peels off the solidified layer, revealing a smooth, fresh surface beneath.

 

 “Not bad… even if I say so myself,” Declan reflects, wondering why he doesn’t do this more often.

Scrolling through the display in front of his closet, he stops on a jacket given to him by his mother last Christmas. It actually looks good on him, but he’s never had the opportunity to wear it.

 

As he hits the “access” button, the storage bar rotates until the jacket comes into view. The COS—Closet Organizer and Steamer—carefully steams it before releasing it onto an extended bar that reaches through the closet.

 

He steps into the jacket, which seals to his form. The bio-network activates automatically, adjusting to his body temperature and comfort level. It reshapes itself precisely to match his current measurements for a perfect, tailored fit.

Sliding into the boots beside his sleeping pod, they seal around his feet for comfort while adding a subtle boost in height and balance.

 

A light cologne mist descends from the bathroom ceiling, calibrated for fragrance without overpowering deodorant. He grabs his SunBrights from the tray; they automatically unfold as he brings them to his face. A screen appears in the corner of his vision, responding to the movement of his eyes. He scans the latest news and virtual texts on the translucent holographic display.

 

As he reviews his messages, he notices one from Raiden: “Glad UR coming. Help Adele make friends.”

Perplexed, Declan raises an eyebrow. “Since when does Raiden care if anyone has friends?” he mutters.

 

He shakes his head, brushing off the comment “I know how to make Adele feel at home.”

 

Descending via transporter to his glider, Declan checks his reflection in the glass and nods in approval.

 

Moving through the aerial traffic, he wonders how the evening will go. Isla can be moody when things don’t go her way; he often finds himself diplomatically redirecting the target of her temporary irritation. Relieved that Isla has known Adele for years and looks up to her, he hopes there will be less friction involving Raiden.

 

At work, Adele has become a great friend. They often share lunch in the corporate dining room, chatting easily and discovering how much they have in common. It’s been a long time since Declan has felt so comfortable around someone who seems to understand him.

 

He takes one last glance at his reflection before arriving at Adele’s home. The transporter sanitizes the entryway before opening. As he steps inside, he inhales deeply—her home smells of vanilla and fresh flowers, like a garden of quiet, hopeful dreams.

“Hi! I’m just about ready!” Adele calls from the kitchen. “Would you like a soda, coffee, or water?”

 

“I’m good, thanks,” Declan replies, taking in the ambiance. Her home feels like her: quiet, understated, yet full of elegance and charm. He notices several capsules of his favorite novels on her desk. “What have you been reading lately? I see quite a selection.”

 

“Oh—yes, I forgot I left those out,” Adele says, hurrying. “I’ve been re-reading Jane Austen and Alexandre Dumas.”

 

“You really like the classics,” Declan says, impressed. “I’m more into Dickens and Hugo. I see you have some poetry too—do you ever read Cowper or William Blake?”

 

“Funny you ask—I was just looking at poetry today,” Adele replies. “I prefer Tennyson or Emily Dickinson, though.”

 

“I’ll bring in some modern poetry capsules for you,” Declan offers. “I think you might like Hanson or Dilworth.”

 

“I haven’t heard of them. Bring them to work on Monday—I’d love to read them.”

 

“I’m finally ready,” Adele announces, looking around for her purse.

Declan’s eyes light up—she looks beautiful, unlike anything he’s seen at work. “You look great,” he says, a bit flustered.

 

“Thank you,” Adele replies politely. “I wasn’t sure what to wear. I might be a little more dressed up than usual—I hope it’s not too much.”

 

“I think you’re perfect,” Declan says honestly, pleased that bringing her as his date worked out.

 

Blushing, Adele smiles. “You made my day.”

 

Declan offers his hand as she steps into the glider. Sitting beside her, he casually places an arm behind her as they lift off toward Isla’s home.

 

“You look good. Did you shave?” Adele asks, surprised at herself for blurting it out.

 

“Yes. Do you like it?” Declan asks confidently, stroking his chin.

 

“It’s a good look on you,” she says with a smile, quietly pleased by his effort.

 

They sit together in a moment of contented silence.

Suddenly, Declan’s connector flashes—Raiden’s name circling in bright red.

 

“Oh, it’s Raiden,” Declan says, annoyed at the interruption, debating whether to answer.

 

“It might be important,” Adele suggests.

 

“Hello?” Declan answers. “Yes, she’s right here. We’re on our way—should be there in about ten minutes. See you soon.”

 

“He was wondering if I forgot,” Declan explains. “To be fair, I usually don’t go when he invites me out. I used to spend more time with them, but I haven’t felt like it lately. Still… I think tonight will be good.”

 

“It’s been a while since I’ve gone to a party too,” Adele admits. “It’s not really my thing, but I know a few people there, which helps. And… it’s nice being with you tonight.”

 

“Well, here we are!” Declan announces, offering his hand again. The glider door opens into a staging area filled with others. He glances at her once more, feeling that tonight might be the beginning of something new.

 

Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Twelve

 

As the sweet aroma of the coffee settles around Adele, she takes her place at the large conference table surrounded by other members of the production team.  The low murmur of her colleagues forms a quiet and restful backdrop to her thoughts.

Raiden enters last. He moves easily through the room.  Handshakes, brief touches on shoulders, a few quiet words - Raiden brings warmth and respect into every room that he enters.  He is confident but not arrogant.  Authority without force. Wise but not consumed. Calm but not passive. In control but not manipulative. Firm but not unmovable.  He is a good leader and visionary.  Many of his team look up to him and see Raiden as a mentor whether officially named one or not. He is kind and friendly.  However, he is not easily fooled by flattery and too much attention. His skills and stamina are admired for the reality of their results rather than just for their potential. The kind of presence that steadies a room rather than fills it.

“I’m glad to see everyone.  Sam, welcome back.  We missed you last week” offers Raiden as everyone adjusts in their chairs and prepares for the meeting ahead.

Ellie can’t wait.

“Actually,” Ellie interrupts, lifting her hand with deliberate precision, as if to inform a group of unruly tourists of where they need to go, “Sam and I were just talking.  It would make more sense if I presented the new project rather than Adele.  She’s new. This is a lot to take on for a first presentation.  It’s probably terribly uncomfortable for her to make the presentation today.  I can’t imagine how much her nerves must be bothering her.  It’s completely fine with me if you need me to step in on her behalf.  I’ve handled these kinds of things for years and know our clients well.  I really think it would be a smart decision if I presented rather than trusting someone new who isn’t comfortable in this kind of situation. I’m far more familiar with our clients and expectations.” rambles Elle, as her words stack neatly into place not allowing anyone else to speak.

Raiden regards her evenly.

“I’ve already reviewed Adele’s presentation. She will present today.  She has been the one working on it.  Declan and Sam have reviewed the material and who also agree that the presentation is quite well done and I think will be something of value to the company.y” replies Raiden disappointed that Ellie is using tactics to discredit the efforts of her co-workers because she feels in competition with them rather than working as a member of a team.

A beat of silence.

“I see” Ellie answers reluctantly surrendering while shuffling her papers and starting to tap her digital quill on the plexiglass screen table to the annoyance of everyone else throughout the room. 

She strokes her hair back in place and raises her chin as if there has been an imaginary cramp in her neck. Then she tilts her head to the side, squinting her eyes, and slightly pursing her lips to focus directly on Raiden as he speaks his next words.

Raiden continues.

Unfazed by Ellie theatrics, Raiden proceeds through the agenda for the meeting. One by one, the team presented – measured, thorough, practiced.  Ideas refined, reshaped, open to possibility.

 Each manager presents what their specific team has been working on. Each are dedicated and thorough in their work. Many hours have been spent defining the details, merging concepts, and allowing room for creativity and inspiration rather than dwelling on past merits and the status quo.

The last item on the agenda is Adele’s project.  Raiden offers for Adele to come to the head of the conference table to use the virtual projection.

Then Adele stood.

 The projection blooms to life.  A 3-d image of the venue appears.  Each room slowly opens to display a holographic image of decorations, furniture arrangement, a menu, a touchable scroll down menu that includes a meeting outline, food menu and dessert descriptions, seating list, table decorations, budget, caterer contacts, and other viable information for the special event. Even contingency plans are neatly nestled within the design. It is  not simply a presentation, it is an environment.

The questions came.

Her colleagues are quite impressed but also have reasonable questions and concerns about alternate plans in case of unexpected interference.  Adele meets each question without hesitation, calm and prepared. Answering each question confidently as she explains every gap has been anticipated. Every uncertainty already considered. She has carefully researched and documented possible delays or other unexpected opportunities or situations.

Across the table, Ellie sits rigid.

With her arms crossed, and her leg swinging in a restrained cadence to her disgust. Ellie’s composure is intact, but her irritation barely concealed. She is visibly seething. This was not on her expected plan for today.  She is impressed with Adele’s complete project, but not out of admiration but out of reluctance to acknowledge her capable skill level. 

The meeting closes. Chairs shift. Papers gathered.  The room begins to empty.

“Adele.”

She turns.

“Do you have a minute?” Raiden asks.

A flicker of uncertainty crosses her face.

Not sure if something is wrong that he wants to discuss about the presentation, “Of course.    Do you need to go over something?” nervously asks Adele hoping there is not too much that will have to be re-designed.

“I was thinking,” gently interrupts Raiden, “we could celebrate with a congratulatory cup of coffee and dessert for your first presentation.” He smiles, self-consciously putting his hands in his pockets not quite use to feeling any type of nervousness when speaking to one of his employees.

The tension slips from her shoulders.

“This sounds perfect.  Dessert sounds great!” replies Adele feeling relieved that it wasn’t a reprimand or critique as previous difficult bosses had done before.

“Let me just get my coat.  There is a bakery I like in the area, if that is okay with you” offers Raiden feeling unexpectedly excited to be spending some time outside of work with Adele.

“Sounds great!  Bread of any kind is my favorite thing.” Unashamedly offers Adele laughing within her words knowing how true that statement is actually by definition.

“My glider is just downstairs in Airpod 2. Shall we walk together?” offers Raiden hoping to prolong their time together.  He gently helps Adele put on her coat by holding the back and letting her arm slide into the sleeve.  The share a common smile with each other.

“Thank you” kindly replies Adele not entirely use to someone helping her with basic things but that feel suddenly special and with the warmth of friendship.

The hallway stretches quietly around them.

Slowing down her pace,  Adele notices a piece of new artwork displayed digitally on the translucent walls.

She steps too close.

She accidentally bumps into Raiden. A soft collision. A shared laugh. 

“Oh, I’m so sorry!  I wasn’t watching what I was doing.  Isn’t that beautiful?” exclaims Adele gesturing toward the modern impressionistic motion painting by a new AI artist. 

“I found it through a friend of mine who recommended this new artist to me” offers Raiden, “What do you think of it?”

Studying it a little longer, “I’ve not quite seen anything like it before.  The vibrant colors, blending within the scenic background, yet each part is defined by its own beauty and sculpture.  It almost feels like you are participating in the painting rather than just observing it” reflects Adele with sincerity and astute observation.

Raiden glances at her, surprised.

“Yes,” he states after a moment, “Exactly.”

“I felt the same way the first time I saw it.  It was more of an experience rather than a display” replies Raiden amazed that she would feel the same as he does without a leading or explanation.

They walk on.

For a moment each silently walking next to each other feeling content and mutually understood.  Raiden stands to the side and still holds the automatic sliding door even though it is unnecessary because a camera monitors any movement and adjusts accordingly.

“I’ve been meaning to bring you here”, he adds almost offhand.

Adele smiles, missing the weight of it.

“I like trying new places.  I’ve been exploring on my own around Kell City but it’s better with company too” reflectively considers Adele believing that Raiden is just being polite to his new employee like he would anyone else.

Raiden doesn’t answer. 

Blushing slightly in the folds of the coat collar, he waits for Adele by her side of the door to enter the glider comfortably and be situated in her seat.  The door slides open as he walks to the side where he likes rest while the glider takes him to work each morning.

He holds the glider’s door open a moment longer than necessary.

The glider lifts cleaning into the open air.

 Below them, the skyscape of Kell City glistens in the horizon. The city is softened into lines of light and shadow.   The gorgeous sunset on the horizon blooms in vibrant hues of deep rust, citrus, burnished copper, and fading gold.  The brilliant sky looks as if an antique painting of the old Western Front.

A sudden shift. A nearby glider cutting too close.

A flutter of disturbance occurs when a speeding glider moves near.  The glider tilts to accommodate the flow of the unexpected traffic. “Are you ok?” asks Raiden as they each catch their balance.  “I’m fine.  That driver must have taken it off automatic pilot and decided to manually fly himself – not a good idea.”

Raiden exhales. “I don’t know why anyone would choose to do that. You miss everything.”

“I’d much rather enjoy the scenery than worry about the traffic around me” explains Raiden “I don’t know how drivers handled it in the past.  They missed out on so much because they had to concentrate on the roads rather than all the beauty around them.”

“I don’t know,” explains Adele, “Sometimes it’s nice to not know exactly where you are going.”

“Every once in a while, I like to drive myself but it is usually when there is not much traffic around.  I like the idea of randomly choosing where I would like to go without being obligated to be anywhere in particular” remarks Adele feeling that this statement also coincides with how she views her own life.

Raiden considers what she is saying, “Those are usually the moments that stay.”

“It’s funny how being open to new experiences sometimes create the most memorable moments of your life” reflects Raiden glad that a random invitation for dessert seemed like a good idea today.  “Here we are.”

Myrtle’s Baker & Creamery glows softly at the edge of the street.

The glider eases into the docking station.   The place is decorated in shades of delicate soft pinks and canary yellow, with floral trim and foliage.   They find a table with two white ironwork chairs with checkered pastel bench seats.

Inside, warmth. Sugar, coffee, baked bread – the air itself seems layered.

A delicious aroma of warm bread, sweet desserts, hot brewing coffee, and chocolate fill every atom of the café. “This smells like heaven” half-seriously remarks Adele taken in a very deep breath to appreciate the beautiful effort of confectionary care around her.

Raiden laughs to himself while observing Adele grateful for the moment of bliss, Raiden admires how well Adele seems to appreciate and adapt to whatever setting she finds herself in whether it is camping, a work meeting, or a café.

At the table next to them, their reverie is interrupted by the sound of two familiar voices arguing over tres de leches. 

“This is the best cake ever!” explains Alice Hammer “but I think adding grape jam to the top is just fine!

“No one adds jelly to cake!” replies Jennings taking her napkin and wiping her mouth after a huge bite of decadence. “That’s nonsense!”

“You just haven’t tried it!”  argues Alice Hammer “Sometimes I even add strawberry jam too. Haven’t you had a donut with jam in it?  Isn’t it the same thing?”

“I like my donuts plain with a glimmer of glaze” bluntly remarks Jennings “Donuts and jam don’t belong together.”

“But you eat toast, what’s the difference” perplexed replies Alice Hammer “I see you every Tuesday and Thursday at the Breakfast Club at the Silvercrest.  You put mixed berry jelly on your toast EVERY TIME!”

“That’s different” stubbornly replies Jennings staring down Alice Hammer to challenge her belief “it is not a dessert.”

“I don’t eat jelly on my toast, it mixes too much with the butter” honestly replies Alice Hammer, “I do like Nutella though”.

“You nutty – that’s all I got to say” remarks Jennings feeling as if she had the last word.

“Well, is that so? I think you are a bit fruity” retorts Alice Hammer feeling as if she has met Jennings challenge with defiance. Both ladies look angrily at each other.

What follows unravels quickly – cake into donuts, donuts into toast, toast into principle.

Raiden leans back amused by their chatter, “So, what is the final verdict?”

Laughing at the fight between two of his favorite people in the universe, he joyfully pauses for their answer.

“I know you agree with me Raiden.  Jelly does not belong in donuts” suggests Jennings having babysat Raiden when he was a little boy.

“Yeah – is that what you think?” defensively replies Alice Hammer, “I bet Adele agrees with me that biting into a strawberry jelly donut with icing on the top is one of the best flavors in the world, right Adele?”

Alice Hammer turns sharply, “Adele. Jelly donuts – yes or no?”

Alice Hammer turns to look at Adele as a little bit of red jelly falls from the corner of Alice Hammer’s mouth.  Jennings has been arguing with a pink powdered sugar mustache with a touch of sprinkles.

“Look fool!  You’ve got powdered sugar all over you!” explains Alice Hammer feeling quite the champion.

“What?  I’m no fool.  I’m not sitting there with clown face full of red lips of jelly!” Jennings snaps back.

Alice Hammer pleads to Adele, “What’s your favorite donut? With or without jelly, Adele?”

“A careful yes … but Im partial to chocolate glaze” honestly replies Adele hoping to help end the argument.

“Reasonable.” Jennings allows.

“What about you, Raiden?” presses Jennings hoping to have a compatriot on her side.

Raiden pauses.

“Honestly, I like bagels and cream cheese” replies Raiden looking over at a customer devouring a bagel at the next table.

Then – unexpected united agreement.

“Ooooh, that is good” replies Alice Hammer “I’ll have to get that next time.”

“With what kind of cream cheese?” asks Jennings feeling like provoking her best friend of fifty years again.

“I’d rather not discuss it and let it be a “present” of surprise for myself next time” replies Alice Hammer enjoying the randomness of a moment at opportune times.

“I guess jelly, butter, fruit, Nutella, doesn’t really matter at the end of the day, it’s all delicious anyway” replies Jennings smacking her lips after the last bite of her powdered donut.

The argument dissolves.

The room shifts again – quieter.

“What does your t-shirt say today?” asks Raiden liking the slogans Jennings likes to wear.

“It’s a picture of a donut – that’s how this discussion got started” replies Jennings it says “I may look soft and chewy, but I’m a little tart on the inside.”

“Jeez …” replies Alice Hammer rolling her eyes and shaking her head while wiping her mouth of the last crumb.

“Are you going to Isla’s on Friday?” asks Jennings, too casually.

 Alice Hammer swiftly kicks her leg under the table.

Too late.

“Oww!  What did you do that for?” asks Jennings as Alice Hammer enlarges her eyes and moves them back and forth between Adele and Jennings and back at Adele.

“Ohhh …” reversing the sound of her “oww” hoping that Adele didn’t hear her, Jennings replies “I  … I … I ..” not able to compensate for bringing up Isla into the conversation.

“I’ve been invited to the party as well” states Adele wanting to remove the awkwardness of the moment. “I’ve been asked to be there as Declan’s plus-one.”

Reflief flickers across Jenning’s face.

“I’m so glad you are coming too!” replies Jennings glad that her new friend will be there. “I’m not really a fan of Isla’s parties but she usually has really good food and desserts!”

Raiden stands.

“Well, we should go.  But we will see you Friday!” replies Raiden guiding Adele with his hand gently on her back towards the exit door. 

“It’s good to see you again!” waves Adele happy that it has turned into such an enjoyable evening.

Outside the air has cooled.  Rain threatens to fall.

Raiden’s connection band begins to flicker, and the letters “ISLA” circle above the band. “It  looks like Isla is calling.  I’ll call her later.”

“It’s okay, you can answer now” remarks Adele looking for her lipstick in her purse.

Raiden hesitates anyway -but then answers,

“Hello?” Raiden reluctantly replies, “Yes, I see.  Of course. No, that’s fine. It’s no problem at all.  I’ve got things that I need to do. I hope you have a good evening with Jayden.  I’ll see you Friday.”

A pause.  Then silence. He turns back.

“Ready? A storm’s coming.  I have an extra umbrella.” offers Raiden.

Thunder rolls faintly in the distance as they step into the glider.

Something unspoken settles quietly between them.

 

Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Eleven

The rain fell in a rhythmic pattern against the windowpane as Adele gently sighed and reflected on the events of the day. Her thoughts were interrupted by a familiar automated voice—both soothing and a reminder of tasks yet to be done.

“Would you like some tea?” Vera asked through the sound system of her communicator bracelet. The device had been preprogrammed to monitor heart rate, rhythm changes, blood pressure, and any subtle physical shifts that might affect mood. The remedy for these mood changes was recorded and adjusted for future use. Tea was known to have a calming effect on Adele.

“Yes, some chai tea sounds quite nice…” Adele murmured, her voice trailing off as she drifted back into thought. Somehow, the rain mirrored the feelings in her heart. It had been a long day—one that had not gone as expected.

Earlier that morning, as she walked into Marks Enterprises for another day of work, Elle Daring had met her at the sliding doors of her department.

“Oh,” Ellie exclaimed, scrutinizing Adele from the flyaways in her hair to the rumpled shirt around her waist, down to her scuffed shoe from tripping on the ramp while exiting the glider twenty minutes earlier. “I see you finally made it—if not entirely in one piece.”

Adele smiled politely, trying to make light of the critique. “Yes, I had a bit of a fall this morning, but as you can see, all my parts are still attached.” She laughed awkwardly, shifting her weight and nodding in agreement.

Ellie stood still, raised her chin, and paused before replying. “Well, it’s going to be a full day of meetings, and perhaps you should take a moment to pull yourself together.”

“You’re right—that would be a good idea,” Adele replied, hoping the interaction would end quickly as she headed down the hallway toward the women’s restroom.

Upon entering, a scanner assessed signs of illness, exhaustion, or other minor medical concerns. Her bracelet lit up, displaying real-time health data in case of emergency.

Rolling her eyes, Adele whispered under her breath, “My blood pressure always goes up twenty points when Ellie is around. I wish she didn’t upset me.”

From the adjoining stall, a familiar voice responded, “What did you say? Were you talking to me? I didn’t quite catch that.”

Embarrassed, Adele quickly explained, “I was just murmuring to myself. Sometimes I do that when I’m thinking about something unrelated to work.”

“Oh, I thought you might be annoyed with me,” Isla joked as she stepped out of the stall. “I just love how you can listen to your favorite music without disturbing anyone else. I’m such a fan of Jayden. Do you ever listen to him?”

“Sometimes,” Adele replied, not entirely truthfully. “It depends on the day.” In truth, Jayden’s music wasn’t what she would consider truly musical. He used the same three chords and rhythm in nearly every song, repeating the same lyrical lines over and over.

“He’s amazing! A complete genius! There’s no one like him!” Isla gushed, flashing Adele a knowing look as she recalled his affectionate hug the night before.

Adele nodded politely, continuing to wash her hands with the aromatic soap, unsure how else to respond.

“Have you seen Raiden today?” Isla asked. “You know he hates being away from me for long. He’s always texting, asking when we can see each other again. I’ve been so busy—it’s made him miss me even more. I don’t know how he manages without me.” She sighed dramatically, despite knowing the opposite was likely true.

“I haven’t seen him yet. I spoke with Ellie a few minutes ago—there are quite a few meetings later today,” Adele replied, steering away from the subject.

“I’m thinking of hosting a dinner party,” Isla continued. “I’d love for you to come. Declan Benwick needs a plus-one—he never brings anyone, and it leaves the numbers uneven. You two seem to get along well.” She paused, then added, “Not many people understand him, but you do.”

“When is it?” Adele asked, not particularly enthusiastic but aware that Declan was a friend.

“This Friday at 6:30 p.m., at my house on Shepherd Drive,” Isla said. “It’s only twelve minutes from Raiden’s—I’ve timed it. He’s very dedicated to me.”

“Wow, that’s close,” Adele said carefully. “It’s nice to have someone nearby.”

“Yes,” Isla replied firmly. “No matter where I am, I can call him, and he’ll be there immediately.”

“Sounds nice,” Adele responded. “I’m glad he’s there for you.”

Admiring her reflection, Isla adjusted her hair and lipstick before turning sharply, confidence radiating from her movements.

“I’ll see you Friday—please don’t be late,” she said briskly. “Declan arrives ridiculously early and monopolizes Raiden with technical conversations all evening. You’ll understand him, so you can keep him occupied.”

“I’ll see you then,” Adele said, though uncertainty lingered.

A few minutes later, Adele arrived at her desk. Placing her palm on the glass surface, her imprint unlocked a holographic display. Real-time charts of transfers and transactions appeared. It had been a productive morning—if not a typical one.

“How’s everything going?” a voice asked from behind her.

Adele turned to see Raiden settling comfortably into a chair across from her, legs crossed in his usual thoughtful pose.

“I walked by earlier and wasn’t sure if you were coming in today,” he added with a smile.

“I ran into Isla and ended up chatting for a bit,” Adele explained, watching his reaction.

“Oh, yeah. She’s gone home to do whatever her thing is today,” Raiden said dismissively, his expression tightening slightly.

He shook his head, staring absently upward. “Sometimes I don’t know why I’ve even bothered.”

Adele sensed the comment wasn’t meant for discussion and continued scrolling through her notifications in silence.

“Are you coming Friday?” he asked, more eagerly.

“Yes. Isla mentioned Declan needed someone to keep him company,” Adele said.

“So she’s set you up as his date?” Raiden asked, surprised.

“I wouldn’t call it a date—just company for the evening,” Adele clarified.

“I’m glad you’re coming,” he said. “You’re easy to talk to. I don’t have much in common with Isla’s friends. I always feel out of place at her parties.”

“Maybe it helps with networking,” Adele offered.

Raiden shrugged. “Maybe. But I don’t consider any of them friends.”

Adele nodded quietly.

“I really need to do something about that,” he murmured.

Uncertain what he meant, Adele pretended not to hear.

“Will you be at the 2 p.m. meeting?” he asked, tapping his smart lenses to display the agenda. “I’d like you to present the project update.”

“I can do that,” Adele replied confidently.

“Great. I’ll see you then,” he said before heading off.

The rest of the morning, Adele finalized a visually engaging report, combining creative design with practical detail.

Just before reaching the conference room, Ellie stepped in front of her.

“I see Raiden has you on the agenda,” Ellie said. “Interesting choice. He usually prefers someone more experienced. Are you sure you don’t want someone else to present?”

Adele took a steadying breath. “I think it’s important to try. That’s how I’ll learn.”

“Are you sure?” Ellie pressed. “These are important clients.”

“I’ve prepared thoroughly and consulted with the team,” Adele replied. “I believe I’m ready.”

“You’ve got more faith than I do,” Ellie smirked. “Good luck.”

As another colleague approached, Ellie suddenly shifted tone.

“Hi, Sam! We were just talking about you—the Emerson Retreat you presented last week was fantastic!”

With a confident sway, Ellie moved on, leaving Adele standing in the quiet aftermath.

 

Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Ten

 

“Vera, I’ll be finished at 10:15. Please have the climate set at seventy‑two degrees,” Adele sighs, hoping Morena will actually be on time tonight, as they had agreed. Adele likes Morena’s sons, but they can be a handful and need constant supervision to manage their curiosity and adventurous spirits. As she picks up her bag and walks away from the landing pad, Adele takes a deep breath to settle her thoughts before entering the home.

The prompt elevator is already waiting on the lower level. As Adele steps inside, a fine mist sprays to disinfect harmful allergens, mixed with a sweet, inviting floral scent. When the clear glass doors slide open, she quickly surveys the room, gauging what state things are in this evening.

Nelson has left his hoverboard halfway perched in a potted plant, as if it were an intentional parking place. Miniature hover cars are scattered across counters, floors, and furniture. A holographic homework book—forgotten and still active—projects an image of Abraham Lincoln, president more than two hundred years ago, endlessly repeating the Gettysburg Address. A pair of music buds lies abandoned on the counter, each tinier than a collar button. Adele has a strong suspicion they will be lost soon, followed by an argument over who hid them from whom.

The dinner dishes remain on the island, just as Adele expected. Morena clearly anticipates some cleaning along with sitter duties, without any adjustment to the babysitting fee. An amber rim pulses around the dishes, signaling that they require cleaning and disinfection, as if that weren’t already obvious. Morena always favors the newest kitchen trends, though this particular feature feels redundant.

The refrigerator displays expiration dates for every stored item, alongside a second list of products ready to be reordered with a single tap. The groceries will arrive conveniently at the doorstep within two hours. Adele notices a note written in translucent gel stuck to the fridge. Nelson has drawn a somewhat accurate picture of her beneath the words: 

I love you, Adele. 

Haha!👽

 PeRsHIng, 

The boys truly love Adele, and she cares deeply for them. Having wanted children of her own for a long time, Nelson and Pershing have helped fill part of the ache she feels is missing. Suddenly, she hears the soft zoom of gliding sleepers, and both boys rush into the backs of her knees, wrapping her in a tight bear hug.

“You’re here! I love you so much! Do you want to see my new Mr. Heroic? He can say every single line of the movie!”

Adele lifts Pershing into her arms and gives him a nose‑to‑nose Eskimo kiss. “I missed you too,” she replies sweetly, believing—if only for the moment—that being with him is the happiest she could be.

A few minutes later, Nelson shuffles in, rubbing his eyes and fighting back tears. “My 3‑D image glasses broke while I was playing my game. Do you think you could fix them?”

“I can try,” says Adele. “What happened?” She already knows Nelson tends to lose his temper when he’s losing one of his favorite games.

“I was riding my L‑7 bike, and Jalon—my best friend at school—was playing online with me. He kept passing me!” Nelson explains with a frustrated sigh. “I yelled at him, then he yelled at me. We were just yelling at each other. I got so mad that I threw my glasses at the screen, and the bridge broke.”

“Let me see… I think your mom keeps magnetic adhesive in this drawer,” Adele says, rummaging beneath the counter. “Ah—here it is. This should work.”

She applies a cool alloy compound that instantly welds metallic or magnetic materials together. The broken pieces fuse seamlessly.

“There,” she says. “Good as new. Just be careful next time. And you might think about apologizing to your friend. It’s just a game—not worth staying mad over.”

Shrugging, Nelson sighs. “I guess you’re right. But… but… he shouldn’t have passed me. I was winning.” The doubt in his voice betrays him.

“How about we pick up the toys and put them back in the playroom?” Adele suggests, bending to retrieve a stray hover car.

Disgusted at the thought of manual labor, Nelson replies, “Adele, you don’t have to pick them up.” Then, eager to show off his new birthday gadget, he grins. “Watch this!”

He lifts the necklace he’s wearing, dotted with various colored tags, and presses the blue one. Instantly, the toys bearing his digital signature slide across the floor and compress into a single conjoined pile, like magnetized metal snapping together.

Just then, Gladys—their friendly house nanny—glides into the room carrying a basket. She collects the pile of toys and returns them to the playroom.

“Thanks, Gladys,” Nelson says, repeating what his mother’s taught him, though he doesn’t entirely understand why he must be polite to robots as well as people. “Mom says I have to be nice.”

“Yes, kindness matters,” Adele replies gently. “Bots help make our lives easier. Treating them the way you’d like to be treated is always a good idea.”

Watching Gladys glide down the hallway, Adele recalls a discussion from her college AI ethics class. Though made of metal and wires, humanoids represent life and culture—programmed reflections of humanity itself. Traits like kindness, compassion, and mercy, she had argued, were essential to prevent people from becoming cold, purely logical beings—a dangerous outcome, given humanity’s volatile, selfish, and unpredictable nature.

“Nanny Gladys has been with us since I was born,” Pershing explains. “Dad says we need an upgrade, but I don’t want to lose her.”

“Maybe she just needs a software update,” Adele suggests, though she knows his father always wants the newest technology. “If not… maybe she could stay with me for a while.”

The boys cheer and jump excitedly.

“I’ll see what your dad says first,” Adele adds thoughtfully.

“I would be willing to relocate, if Ms. Morena approves,” Gladys offers. “I have 7.341 years remaining on my lifestyle battery.”

“I’d be grateful for your help, Gladys,” Adele replies sincerely.

“I have a list that Ms. Morena supplied before departing for the evening. I will work on these errands unless you request my help,” Gladys replies gently, pausing for Adele’s response as she has been programmed to do.

“Thanks, Gladys. I think the boys will be all right with me for a little while,” Adele replies assuredly, smiling.

Gladys pauses, then offers a reflective smile in return. “Thank you, Ms. Adele.”

The bot heads toward the kitchen to check the customized automated hydration system tending to the home’s growing potted plants.

After the boys return to the living room in their Mr. Heroic‑themed pajamas, Adele collapses onto the sofa, Nelson and Pershing tucked snugly at her sides.

“What shall we watch tonight?” she asks.

In unison, both boys shout, “Mr. Heroic 4!”

“Really?” Adele asks. “Didn’t we watch that the last time I was here?”

“Yeah, but you can watch it again,” Pershing replies. Then, in his sweetest voice, he adds, “Pleeease!”

“All right. I do like the story between him and Emily Freebird,” Adele concedes.

“Yuck! I don’t know why they added her to the story,” Nelson remarks frankly, not quite old enough to appreciate romance in movies.

Pershing puckers his lips, making exaggerated kissing noises. “They like to kiss,” he offers, not fully understanding the nuances.

“Yes, they do,” Adele agrees, blushing slightly as she wonders why certain scenes are included in movies meant for children. “But we’ll fast‑forward through those parts so you don’t have to watch them again.”

“I hate that part!” Nelson exclaims. “Mr. Heroic doesn’t need Emily Freebird to do anything!”

“Yes, he does,” Pershing counters. “She’s smart. He’d do a lot of stupid things without her. She knows stuff he needs to know to catch the bad guys.”

“I guess you’re right,” Nelson considers. “She is kind of pretty—like my teacher last year, Mrs. Wheelhouse.”

“What about this year?” Pershing asks, not knowing what Nelson’s current teacher looks like.

“This year I have a bot. Her name is Ms. Wentworth. She’s okay,” Nelson says thoughtfully. “But she doesn’t play fun games with us like Mrs. Wheelhouse did or give us as much free time.”

“I can hardly wait until I’m in third grade like you!” Pershing replies enviously. “But I do like my kindergarten teacher, Ms. Pulse. She helps me tie my shoes. I don’t want to learn how to tie them myself because she’s so good at it.”

“Maybe we can work on that tonight if you’d like,” Adele suggests. “I’m sure there are other things—like drawing—that you enjoy doing with Ms. Pulse, too.”

“Ummm… maybe,” Pershing says, thinking. “Maybe she can help me draw monsters with big scary ears and gigantic hands. What do you think?”

“Sounds interesting! You’ll have to show me your pictures once you’ve finished them,” Adele replies genuinely, already imagining them joining the rotating gallery of the boys’ artwork displayed on her family room wall at home.

“I’ll make a monster that looks just like you, Adele!” Pershing exclaims excitedly, already devising ideas.

“I’d like to see what that looks like,” Adele says sincerely, noting Pershing’s natural artistic talent with his gel digital crayons.

Rolling his eyes, Nelson adds matter‑of‑factly, “Adele isn’t a monster. She’d look better as a zombie. She’s got a lot of bags under her eyes.”

Adele chuckles, acknowledging the truth in his words—she hasn’t slept much lately, her thoughts often drifting back to the possibility of working with Raiden again.

“I’m tired, Adele. Can you read us a bedtime story instead?” Pershing asks, yawning mid‑sentence as he clutches Mr. Bolox, his favorite stuffed panda.

“Yes, I think Mr. Bolox might be tired too,” Adele says softly, gently tapping the panda on the nose.

The boys take her hands as they wander down the hallway to their rooms. They climb into their cave‑designed bunk beds, complete with sculpted cavern lamps glowing softly in the corners. Adele settles into the hanging nest chair nearby. She scrolls through files on her wrist and projects a holographic image of The Five Nights Fairy Tale.

As the soothing narration begins and images unfold in sync with the story, the boys’ eyes slowly close, slipping into a peaceful sleep.

 

Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Nine

Letting her glasses slide further down her nose with the tilt of her head, Alice Hammer squints her eyes and intently focuses on the numbers displayed in front of her.  “Ahhhhh”, letting out a sign of relief, Alice Hammer exhales “I think that is a 7 and not a 1”.

“What are you talking about?” asks Jennings wandering into the kitchen holding a large iced glass of sweet tea topped with pieces of peaches, strawberries, and oranges.  “I think it’s time to order some new glasses If you do not want to have reflection surgery to correct your vision.”

“I’m doing just fine” curtly remarks Alice Hammer squinting again at the mechanism in front of her and confidently pushing the box highlighted in bright blue lettering of ‘Enter’.

“You just put the butter in for seven minutes instead of one.  Were you hoping to melt it or make it into bisqueware?” inquires Jennings not entirely sure of her friend’s intent.

“What? Are you sure?” asks Alice Hammer removing her glasses and nearly touching the panel “Oh, I guess you’re right.” 

“Why didn’t you just use the voice command, it’s so much easier?” curiously asks Jennings cutting up diagonal pieces of lemon on the chopping board in front of her.

“I had to turn off the sound mechanism.  I was singing “I-2-3-4 My Heart’s on Fire, just say it one more time” the other day and the InstaOven picked up my voice and charcoaled my shepherd’s pie.” explains Alice Hammer still a little disappointed in her culinary results. 

“How many times did you sing the song?” doubtfully inquires Jennings knowing her friend’s enthusiasm and obsession with songs that she likes.

“Only nine or ten times or so” remarks Alice Hammer starting to hum the song out loud again and moving to the beat in her head.

“Ehhh … I think we should wait on the singing and dancing while we cook, we don’t want to hurt ourselves” remarks Jennings as Alice Hammer attempts rather eclectic and peculiar steps in front of her.

As if on cue, Alice Hammer twirls and moves her shoulders to an imaginary rhythmic beat and with all seriousness starts pushing her hands towards the heavens, tossing her head back, pointing her fingers at Jennings and starts to sing familiar lyrics in a painful tone as she dramatically snaps her head with an invisible mic in her hand.

“I never knew, how could it be true, when my days had been so blue, that I would only think of you” sings Alice Hammer in her best celebrity impression framing her face taking dancing steps towards the refrigerator to check her reflection of fame and admiration.

From across the counter, Jennings watches in puzzled amusement, “Why are you dancing in front of the refrigerator?”

“It’s my fans, they can’t get enough of me!” responds Alice Hammer mimicking in an Elvis voice about his fandom then clapping her hands and landing in a dramatic pose.

Jennings shakes her head and returns to slicing the lemons for their afternoon tea.  “Alice Hammer, you never reached your full potential. The world does not know what it has missed out on.”

“So, what are we making for Raiden and Isla tonight?” asks Jennings completing her assigned task.

“I forgot to tell you, Isla called and isn’t coming something about having a previous appointment with her sister, I think.  It will just be Raiden and Adele tonight.  I called Mr. Woodhouse who said he would like to come but he is going with my Fred to the Men’s Fellowship club tonight instead” explains Alice Hammer excited that her Fred has promised to spend another day with her on a picnic for just the two of them.

“I think they are painting the nursery tonight which has needed to be done for years” agrees Jennings “I can’t wait for all the babies to arrive in a few months.  I wish Raiden would find someone who wanted a family.  I think Isla is more concerned about keeping her figure, collecting boyfriend trophies, and having money for shopping than raising a family.”

“You never know, things could change” offers Alice Hammer trying to be optimistic but also feeling as if Jennings’ perception might be more accurate to truth than not.

A chime rings through the kitchen as the LED display on the kitchen countertop announces that a guest has arrived.  The door glides open as Adele enters carrying a small basket on her arm.

“What did you bring?  You really didn’t have to” explains Jennings taking the wicker basket from her and smiling to greet Adele.

“It’s nothing.  I made some cookies this afternoon that I thought might be good for a snack later on or even sometime later this week if you would like”, offers Adele knowing how much Alice Hammer likes to try different kinds of cookies.

“Lovely!  Chocolate Chip is my favorite!” exclaims Alice Hammer taking one from the wrapper and having a taste “Oh, you added little pieces of white chocolate to this one!  Thank you!”

As they walk into the dining area, Adele asks “Is there someone else coming tonight?”

“Yes, it slipped my mind to tell you.  Isla isn’t able to come tonight, so it will just be Raiden with us.”

At that moment, Adele’s bio-ring on her right hand lights up and a soft bell sound is heard.

“Your bio-health ring just went off, is everything ok?” sincerely asks Jennings noting that many of her friends have similar alerts for their blood pressure status.

“I’m fine” blushes Adele realizing that her blood pressure must have spiked on hearing that Raiden would also be there tonight “The alert goes off at random times by accident”.

“You should probably have the battery checked” offers Jennings wanting to be helpful. “You don’t look like someone who would have blood pressure issues.”

“I’ll keep that in mind” thanks Adele realizing the true reason was not noted.

As they are chatting together in the kitchen, a chime sounds for a second time.  Alice Hammer rushes to the front door to greet the special guest tonight.

In the other room, Adele hears Raiden’s voice and looks at her own reflection in the refrigerator to see if her hair is in place. 

Just then Raiden enters the kitchen as Adele turns to face him.  Raiden’s bio-ring also sends an alert and he immediately clasps his hands over the ring to muffle the alert.

“Everyone’s ring is going off tonight.  I wonder if there is a defect in the manufacturing”, considers Alice Hammer out loud to herself but for everyone to hear.

Trying to cover his surprise, Raiden turns to the side “Is that sweet tea?  It looks delicious with all the different fruit in it”.

“It is delicious.  Do you see this locket I’m wearing?” orders Alice Hammer holding up a necklace only an inch from Raiden’s face.

“Yes it’s quite nice.  It smells like you might have something herbal in it” suggests Raiden not too sure why a necklace would have a scent.

“It’s my favorite right now!  It’s jasmine, oranges, passion fruit, and green tea.  Doesn’t it smell delicious!” excitedly remarks Alice Hammer taken in another bundle of aroma within her jewelry.

“It’s okay. She’s crazy.  Last week she was wearing a spiced chai tea bag in her locket”, bluntly explains Jennings rolling her eyes and shaking her head.

“You should try it.  The scent makes me happy all day”, chides Alice Hammer defending one of her rather eccentric lifetime exploits that some have mistakenly confused with aging dementia.

Chuckling to himself, Raiden puts his arm around the shoulders of Alice Hammer giving her a slight hug, “I will definitely have to try it sometime.”

As they sit down to dinner together, Raiden sits directly across from Adele and notices how attractive she looks tonight so mild in contrast to what makeup and clothes Isla would have chosen to wear.

“How are you feeling about your new position?” inquires Raiden not wanting to interfere with the supervision of other departments but wanting to ensure that she is provided for and trained well.

“I’m immensely enjoying my time.  There are a lot of new things to learn of course, but I seem to be catching on for the most part.  I’m enjoying getting more acquainted with the other employees.   They are very capable and kind too” states Adele adding “Thank you for giving me this opportunity.  It goes beyond my expectations.”

“I’m relieved that the position seems to suit you”, offers Raiden “I’m sure you are a good addition to the staff” but while continually looking at her silently adding to only himself “and to my life as well”.

“Did I miss something?  You seemed to stop mid-sentence”, remarks Jennings reaching for a second helping of fried potatoes.

“He was just saying how glad he was that Adele is working with him and that he couldn’t live without her”, explains Alice Hammer with a delighted smirk and chuckle.

“That’s not exactly what I said”, corrects Raiden blushing “although I am glad Adele is now here working for the firm”.

Smiling but suddenly feeling shy Adele adds, “I’m very grateful for the opportunity too.”

“When are you giving up Isla?” bluntly asks Jennings aware of Raiden’s demeanor is more back to his natural self without the presence of Isla “I don’t see her around much anymore and it appears things are cooling between the two of you.”

“We have been dating awhile. Things are what they are,” explains Raiden not wanting to give too much away even though breaking up has been on his mind for quite awhile even before Adele entered his life again.

“How long have you been dating?” curiously asks Adele not sure if she really wants to know or not.

“About four years, Isla is much younger than me so we have only been casually spending time together”, offers Raiden wanting to be clear but also not to dismiss a possible relationship with Adele, “Isla often attends official events with me, but I wouldn’t say we are serious.”

“Not the way Isla talks about you.  She already has her bridesmaids chosen”, confirms Alice Hammer remembering hints that have been dropped in recent conversations with Isla “She’s probably put in reservations for your reception, you just not be aware of yet.”

Clearing his throat wishing to move on to a different topic, Raiden adds “I think this is more a discussion between Isla and myself rather than tonight at dinner.”

“I guess your right”, agrees Jennings wanting to put in a good word for Adele whom she has already decided might make an excellent match for her grandson.  “Adele, what are your favorite things to do when you are not working?”

“Besides reading, I like to go to the park or nature hikes”,  suggests Adele wanting to change the topic as well.

“I love the outdoors!” exclaims Alice Hammer “Fred and I are going on a picnic later this week now that the weather has changed.”

“We just had a BBQ this past week at the state park”, informs Raiden wanting to be included in the conversation “Adele was there as well with her family.”

“Yes, it was nice to run into each other”, shares Adele wondering at the frequency of their random meetings “The hamburgers were delicious. Raiden is an excellent cook.”

“There’s not much to it, just adding the right seasonings and making sure the fire is right”, explains Raiden feeling complimented and appreciative that Adele noticed his personalized effort.

“What are your plans for this weekend?” asks Jennings “I’m sure Adele would like to see Upper Cross Falls sometime soon.  It’s quite beautiful, if you don’t mind a hike.”

“What a great idea!” agrees Raiden “Are you available this weekend?”

“Yes, I’d love to!” confirms Adele feeling quite pleased at the opportunity to spend more time with Raiden.

“Oh wait.  I forgot.  Isla wants to go to this fashion show and I agreed three months ago to be her escort”, returns Raiden very disappointed due to his previous agreement. “Would the following Saturday be all right?”

“You can let me know a later time”, answers Adele feeling slightly hurt that it will not work out and also not wanting to interfere in the middle of a relationship that already exists. “Maybe Isla can come along as well.”

“You don’t have to worry about that.  I’m not sure Isla would know how to hike in four-inch heels”, bluntly remarks Jennings.

“I think she would be able to” suggests Alice Hammer seriously contemplating the image of Isla’s talents.

“I have your number, I won’t forget.  Remember, I’m promising to take you to the Upper Cross Falls at some point soon” confirms Raiden excited at the possibility of spending more time with Adele to catch up.

“Okay, you can let me know whenever you are free. Don’t worry about it if you can’t though, I’ll understand”, offers Adele not wanting to encourage anything until he is permanently free of Isla.

As if on cue, Adele’s bracelet lights up with a call.  “Excuse me, it looks like Morena is calling me.”

A few minutes later, Adele returns to the table.  “It looks like I need to go.  Morena needs a sitter tonight for her spin class.  The sitter at the gym wasn’t able to make it tonight and I need to go pick up the boys. The dinner was lovely.  Thank you so much!  I’ll have to invite you to my place the next time.”

“I’ll walk you to your air-pod”, offers Raiden and moving next to her before she has an opportunity to refuse.

“It’s okay. It’s right outside”, explains Adele grabbing her purse and heading towards the door.

“I’m going too”, explains Raiden waving and blowing a kiss to Jennings and Alice Hammer.

As the door slides behind them, Raiden offers his arm to Adele as they walk down the steps, “It’s raining so it might be a little slippery on the deck.

Adele takes him arm and feels the warmth of his care. “Thank you. It was very nice to unexpectedly see you again.”

“Yes, I enjoyed tonight as well.  Don’t forget, I owe you a trip to the Falls!” teases Raiden gently placing a hand over her own holding his arm.

“I won’t.” Adele smiles wishing that things were different between them and that Raiden would have more freedom over his schedule.

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