No Teacher's Pet
By KittyCaro
Disclaimer: Voltron (Lion Voltron and Vehicle Voltron) and its characters belong to World Event Productions. Original/new characters belong to the author.
Rating: PG-13 for adult themes and strong language.
Author’s notes: This is dedicated to Yoshi for her fic "Ladies Lunch" (2000) and Rune Lai for her fic “Left Behind” (1999)
Vehicle Voltron Information was borrowed from Shannon Muir’s Voltron Pages (1996) and the The Stellar Ship Explorer website (1999) and the Army, Navy and the United States Military Academy websites. Certain passages were inspired by the Novels Island Conquest by Brooke Hastings (1981) and An Icy Affair by Mona Gedney (2002) and the movie Wing Commander (1999). C&C are welcomed.
Thank you Cami and Ruben for beta reading and your insight.
Categories: E (Adventure/Episodic), Pre (Present)
Originally Published 12/13/2013
Rating: PG-13 for adult themes and strong language.
Author’s notes: This is dedicated to Yoshi for her fic "Ladies Lunch" (2000) and Rune Lai for her fic “Left Behind” (1999)
Vehicle Voltron Information was borrowed from Shannon Muir’s Voltron Pages (1996) and the The Stellar Ship Explorer website (1999) and the Army, Navy and the United States Military Academy websites. Certain passages were inspired by the Novels Island Conquest by Brooke Hastings (1981) and An Icy Affair by Mona Gedney (2002) and the movie Wing Commander (1999). C&C are welcomed.
Thank you Cami and Ruben for beta reading and your insight.
Categories: E (Adventure/Episodic), Pre (Present)
Originally Published 12/13/2013
Click on the following links to move along to that chapter.
The Explorer, December 29, 2305
“Sorry to keep you waiting,” I said to John our handyman who stood at the door of my cabin. His ample chest and trousers were covered by a leather apron and his hands by thick work gloves. He had brought a cart with storage boxes.
“Don’t worry sir,” he said affably, “I know you’re a very busy man. Here are the boxes you requested.”
I opened the door and we entered the long, low room with tall windows looking out onto the pleasant dark space. I was barely inside the door when I stopped.
“That scent.”
“Scent, sir?”
I turned. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to speak aloud. I was surprised by-“
“An odor?” John finished, looking worried. I’ll tell maintenance to come check the air vents-“
I shook my head. “No, John. It’s nothing offensive. I was merely surprised to find it here.”
I moved on into the cabin and saw a letter on the floor. I grabbed it, catching the scent of cherry blossoms which brought back memories of a Monday morning at the academy.
As I was leaving for class, Ginger and I came face to face. She carried her tablet in one hand, a letter in the other. Her cherry blossom scent was so intoxicating that I wanted to pull her flush against me and taste those lips of hers. Tell her how hurt I had been when she had left the academy. Tell her how she haunted my dreams almost every night.
“You’re still here… I mean… good morning, sir.”
“Good morning, Paddington. Welcome back.”
“Thank you, sir,” she returned, obviously displeased to find me. Even so, I found my gaze tangling with hers.
Her fire blue eyes snapped shut, breaking the connection. When she opened them, she held out the letter. “I spoke to Dean Newley and explained the situation. He told me I can stay, but ordered me to write this asking you permission to attend classes.”
I read the letter. “Will you write this letter to every instructor?”
She cast me a suspicious glance- which was a mistake. Again our gazes met, like we were held in some kind of trance. Footsteps called us back to ourselves, and Ginger turned to ask Lisa and Sinda to wait for her in the hall.
“No, sir, just you. That was his only condition.”
“And you’re suspicious?”
“Something of that sort,” she replied, her voice as dry as the Salton Sea.
I watched her stiff spine. “Though I’m grateful for his consideration, I did not ask Newley for this letter. You have permission to attend my class.”
“You have not read the whole letter.”
I looked at her, then down at her written words in beautiful manuscript, reading to the end.
“Dean Newley told me to write that. I don’t know what else to suggest.”
“There’s no need. We’ll follow his orders. You will take your normal classes, and once you are up to speed, I will be your tutor.”
“I don’t want you to shift from your own work, sir. I take my classes in the morning and study in the evening. I’m very much the night owl.”
“I also prefer the dark of night better than the light of day. We’ll get along nicely.”
There was an exaggerated sigh. “It seems, sir, that I have no choice.”
“Cadet,” I said with a smile, “we always have a have a choice. It is just sometimes our choices are not pleasant. Your choices, however, are. You may accept my help now, or you may accept it later.”
“Your choices, sir, sound very similar.”
“You will graduate with your classmates. Trust me.”
“Thank you, sir,” she said, smiling a smile that did the oddest things to my groin and stomach. All I could do was nod, especially since what I really wanted to do was pick her up in my arms and carry her to-
“Sir?”
I turned and saw John smiling broadly. “Where do I leave these?”
“On the floor next to the bookcase, please,” I said, reaching for the letter opener. I was right. It was another letter from Ginger, apologizing for being late to our earlier meeting and the interruption.
Hell, I should be the one apologizing. I behaved like a bastard two years ago as her tutor, forcing her to spend very long and hard nights in the library, endless hours in the flight simulator, pushing her to the limit so she could graduate with her friends. The final blow was sending Keith to Arus.
I had stepped into the hall that led to Monitoring. For some reason Keith was standing there, waiting. He gave me a military salute.
“At ease.”
“Sir, got a minute?”
“Of course,” I replied, waving toward my office. He nodded and followed me into the cramped little room. I sat down and he folded a straight seat out from the wall to perch on.
“We’re leaving tomorrow at 0500 hours, right?” he frowned, as though thinking to himself.
“Yes, but you seemed worried. Have you changed your mind?”
“No, sir. It’s just that-”
He was gazing at a big display screen on the office wall. It showed the placement of all shuttles and general traffic around the Diamond Quadrant, color-coded in orange and blue according to priority.
“Spill it out, commander.”
With a crooked grin, he said, “It still feels weird being called that way.” Then he turned serious. “Sir, graduation will be in five days.”
“Yes, I’m sorry you cannot attend the ceremony with your teammates, but Planet Arus needs your help.”
He ran a hand through his hair. “Sir, I know our mission requires the utmost secrecy, but I can’t leave without giving Ginger an explanation.”
“An explanation?”
“I asked her to be my date to the ball,” he responded, his hands dangling between his knees as he stared at the floor between his feet. “There’s must be a way to explain my absence; I don’t want to hurt Ginger. She means a lot to me.”
“You love her.”
Keith looked up, stared at me, his eyes wide with wonder. “Do you think so, sir?”
“It can be.”
“Do you think Ginger loves me?”
“That, you must find out yourself.”
He smiled broadly. “When I come back, I’ll talk to her. But in the meantime what should I do about the ball?”
“I’ll take care of it, Keith.”
“Sorry to keep you waiting,” I said to John our handyman who stood at the door of my cabin. His ample chest and trousers were covered by a leather apron and his hands by thick work gloves. He had brought a cart with storage boxes.
“Don’t worry sir,” he said affably, “I know you’re a very busy man. Here are the boxes you requested.”
I opened the door and we entered the long, low room with tall windows looking out onto the pleasant dark space. I was barely inside the door when I stopped.
“That scent.”
“Scent, sir?”
I turned. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to speak aloud. I was surprised by-“
“An odor?” John finished, looking worried. I’ll tell maintenance to come check the air vents-“
I shook my head. “No, John. It’s nothing offensive. I was merely surprised to find it here.”
I moved on into the cabin and saw a letter on the floor. I grabbed it, catching the scent of cherry blossoms which brought back memories of a Monday morning at the academy.
As I was leaving for class, Ginger and I came face to face. She carried her tablet in one hand, a letter in the other. Her cherry blossom scent was so intoxicating that I wanted to pull her flush against me and taste those lips of hers. Tell her how hurt I had been when she had left the academy. Tell her how she haunted my dreams almost every night.
“You’re still here… I mean… good morning, sir.”
“Good morning, Paddington. Welcome back.”
“Thank you, sir,” she returned, obviously displeased to find me. Even so, I found my gaze tangling with hers.
Her fire blue eyes snapped shut, breaking the connection. When she opened them, she held out the letter. “I spoke to Dean Newley and explained the situation. He told me I can stay, but ordered me to write this asking you permission to attend classes.”
I read the letter. “Will you write this letter to every instructor?”
She cast me a suspicious glance- which was a mistake. Again our gazes met, like we were held in some kind of trance. Footsteps called us back to ourselves, and Ginger turned to ask Lisa and Sinda to wait for her in the hall.
“No, sir, just you. That was his only condition.”
“And you’re suspicious?”
“Something of that sort,” she replied, her voice as dry as the Salton Sea.
I watched her stiff spine. “Though I’m grateful for his consideration, I did not ask Newley for this letter. You have permission to attend my class.”
“You have not read the whole letter.”
I looked at her, then down at her written words in beautiful manuscript, reading to the end.
“Dean Newley told me to write that. I don’t know what else to suggest.”
“There’s no need. We’ll follow his orders. You will take your normal classes, and once you are up to speed, I will be your tutor.”
“I don’t want you to shift from your own work, sir. I take my classes in the morning and study in the evening. I’m very much the night owl.”
“I also prefer the dark of night better than the light of day. We’ll get along nicely.”
There was an exaggerated sigh. “It seems, sir, that I have no choice.”
“Cadet,” I said with a smile, “we always have a have a choice. It is just sometimes our choices are not pleasant. Your choices, however, are. You may accept my help now, or you may accept it later.”
“Your choices, sir, sound very similar.”
“You will graduate with your classmates. Trust me.”
“Thank you, sir,” she said, smiling a smile that did the oddest things to my groin and stomach. All I could do was nod, especially since what I really wanted to do was pick her up in my arms and carry her to-
“Sir?”
I turned and saw John smiling broadly. “Where do I leave these?”
“On the floor next to the bookcase, please,” I said, reaching for the letter opener. I was right. It was another letter from Ginger, apologizing for being late to our earlier meeting and the interruption.
Hell, I should be the one apologizing. I behaved like a bastard two years ago as her tutor, forcing her to spend very long and hard nights in the library, endless hours in the flight simulator, pushing her to the limit so she could graduate with her friends. The final blow was sending Keith to Arus.
I had stepped into the hall that led to Monitoring. For some reason Keith was standing there, waiting. He gave me a military salute.
“At ease.”
“Sir, got a minute?”
“Of course,” I replied, waving toward my office. He nodded and followed me into the cramped little room. I sat down and he folded a straight seat out from the wall to perch on.
“We’re leaving tomorrow at 0500 hours, right?” he frowned, as though thinking to himself.
“Yes, but you seemed worried. Have you changed your mind?”
“No, sir. It’s just that-”
He was gazing at a big display screen on the office wall. It showed the placement of all shuttles and general traffic around the Diamond Quadrant, color-coded in orange and blue according to priority.
“Spill it out, commander.”
With a crooked grin, he said, “It still feels weird being called that way.” Then he turned serious. “Sir, graduation will be in five days.”
“Yes, I’m sorry you cannot attend the ceremony with your teammates, but Planet Arus needs your help.”
He ran a hand through his hair. “Sir, I know our mission requires the utmost secrecy, but I can’t leave without giving Ginger an explanation.”
“An explanation?”
“I asked her to be my date to the ball,” he responded, his hands dangling between his knees as he stared at the floor between his feet. “There’s must be a way to explain my absence; I don’t want to hurt Ginger. She means a lot to me.”
“You love her.”
Keith looked up, stared at me, his eyes wide with wonder. “Do you think so, sir?”
“It can be.”
“Do you think Ginger loves me?”
“That, you must find out yourself.”
He smiled broadly. “When I come back, I’ll talk to her. But in the meantime what should I do about the ball?”
“I’ll take care of it, Keith.”
The Explorer, December 29, 2305
I summoned Ginger to my office on the eve of the graduation ball. She had been avoiding me for the past few days, knowing that I was part of the committee that awarded assignments. She probably feared that I would recommend her to a boring desk job at the Alliance tower.
“Have a seat, Paddington.”
Casting a furtive glance at my new poster of a hawk giving a military salute, she sat.
“Paddington, I’ve come up with the perfect job for you-“
“I appreciate your interest in my future, but I’m capable of getting my own job, sir.”
It was obvious that Ginger had every intention of asserting her independence. “You studied hard so you could find a job you would enjoy. You will be working for the Alliance-“
“Keith and I have entertained a number of possibilities concerning our first non-training assignments. Maybe putting ourselves on a carrier like the Surveyor or cruiser like the Valiant. What do you think?”
“I would have preferred not to discuss Keith’s future just yet, but since you have raised the issue, I’ll give it to you straight. Four days ago, he was awarded the rank of captain, became a space explorer for Galaxy Garrison and left on a urgent mission.”
She pushed awkwardly to her feet, curling her palm in her chest as in pain.
“You did this on purpose, didn’t you?”
“I beg your pardon?”
“Don’t pretend with me, Sir. You sent Keith away so that I wouldn’t have a date for the ball.”
“For your information, you’re not the center of the universe.”
She was reeling from the force of so many blows, and this final setback destroyed her composure. “You didn’t let me say goodbye to my friend.”
“I chose Keith because he’s the right man for the job. Be reasonable, Paddington.”
She jerked her head up, her blue eyes flashing. “Or what? Are you going to demote me?” You don’t care about anyone except your stupid missions!” she spat viciously, and then bolted out of my office.
I found her minutes later in the study hall, crying on a sofa.
“Ginger,” I pulled her into my arms. She pushed at my chest, demanding her release. I responded by covering her hand with mine, trapping her palm against my chest. Finally, she gave up and rested her head against my shoulder and let go. She cried out her rage, her sorrow and desperation. She cried until she ran out of breath, until her throat ached with sadness.
When I rested my head against her own, she stiffened, and abruptly pulled away.
I stared down at her. “I think they call it friendly comforting.”
“I don’t want to be your friend, sir,” she said, her voice husky and tense.
“Likewise.”
I summoned Ginger to my office on the eve of the graduation ball. She had been avoiding me for the past few days, knowing that I was part of the committee that awarded assignments. She probably feared that I would recommend her to a boring desk job at the Alliance tower.
“Have a seat, Paddington.”
Casting a furtive glance at my new poster of a hawk giving a military salute, she sat.
“Paddington, I’ve come up with the perfect job for you-“
“I appreciate your interest in my future, but I’m capable of getting my own job, sir.”
It was obvious that Ginger had every intention of asserting her independence. “You studied hard so you could find a job you would enjoy. You will be working for the Alliance-“
“Keith and I have entertained a number of possibilities concerning our first non-training assignments. Maybe putting ourselves on a carrier like the Surveyor or cruiser like the Valiant. What do you think?”
“I would have preferred not to discuss Keith’s future just yet, but since you have raised the issue, I’ll give it to you straight. Four days ago, he was awarded the rank of captain, became a space explorer for Galaxy Garrison and left on a urgent mission.”
She pushed awkwardly to her feet, curling her palm in her chest as in pain.
“You did this on purpose, didn’t you?”
“I beg your pardon?”
“Don’t pretend with me, Sir. You sent Keith away so that I wouldn’t have a date for the ball.”
“For your information, you’re not the center of the universe.”
She was reeling from the force of so many blows, and this final setback destroyed her composure. “You didn’t let me say goodbye to my friend.”
“I chose Keith because he’s the right man for the job. Be reasonable, Paddington.”
She jerked her head up, her blue eyes flashing. “Or what? Are you going to demote me?” You don’t care about anyone except your stupid missions!” she spat viciously, and then bolted out of my office.
I found her minutes later in the study hall, crying on a sofa.
“Ginger,” I pulled her into my arms. She pushed at my chest, demanding her release. I responded by covering her hand with mine, trapping her palm against my chest. Finally, she gave up and rested her head against my shoulder and let go. She cried out her rage, her sorrow and desperation. She cried until she ran out of breath, until her throat ached with sadness.
When I rested my head against her own, she stiffened, and abruptly pulled away.
I stared down at her. “I think they call it friendly comforting.”
“I don’t want to be your friend, sir,” she said, her voice husky and tense.
“Likewise.”
The Explorer, December 30, 2305
The conversation with the commander on the eve of the graduation ball had upset me greatly, and I needed to be alone to regain my composure. For hours I sat in front of the mirror, simply staring at my own pale reflection, seeing nothing. I just didn’t want to go the dance without Keith.
“I can’t believe I let you bully me into this,” I whispered to Lisa as she and I descended the polished marble steps that spilled down into the crowded ballroom of the Academy. “Sinda has Krik and you have Jeff. I don’t want to be a fifth wheel.”
“Now you’re being ridiculous, Gin,” Lisa said firmly. “The boys are asking for you because they want to dance with you, especially Rocky and Wolo,” she said as we the reached the bottom of the steps to walk our way through the crush of graduates and guests.
“Besides, I don’t think Keith would like for you to miss the ball.” She sighed wistfully. “You must go!” she exclaimed, distracted by the sight of Jeff weaving through the crowd. It was the only argument Lisa could have made to persuade me to join the celebration I thought, as she took Jeff’s hand and melted into the crowd.
Although the dancing had yet to begin, a 1970s retro band was warming up on the balcony at the far end of the ballroom. I had just reached my table where my family sat when the band began to pick out the plaintive notes of “One” by Three Dog Night.
I closed my eyes. Why did they choose that stupid song?
Feeling as if a crushing weight was dropped on my shoulders, I glanced toward the top the stairs hoping to see a smiling Keith, only to find myself gazing directly into a pair of mocking gray eyes.
Commander Hawkins stood garbed in full dress uniform of an Alliance officer. A wave of rumors and admiring glances greeted his arrival. He seemed even more heroic and dashing.
He turned to my folks. “Good evening,” he greeted pleasantly, smiling as he shook hands with each of them, congratulating them for having a lieutenant in their family. Only I knew how much of a hero he really was. I wouldn’t be sitting here if he hadn’t convinced me to come back and graduate.
“Lieutenant, I asked you a question.”
His voice made me feel butterflies in my stomach. From the corner of my eye, I could see my mother and sisters smiling and I felt the color creeping up my neck and into my face.
“Excuse me?”
“May I have this dance?”
He waited, as still as a panther ready to pounce, his eyes fixed on my face.
Sighing, I tucked my gloved hand in his.
Fortunately, the band continued with disco songs making conversation impossible. Even as we joined the line of dancers, I was aware of every step Hawkins took, every glance he received from some of the older women. It wasn’t hard to follow his path. He towered head and shoulders over most of the men in the room. In all the time, he didn’t seem to spare me a single glance.
Suddenly the cords of “I’ve Got You under My Skin” filled the room and we stood face to face.
I swallowed hard, expecting him to take me back to my table.
“Shall we?”
He slipped one arm around my waist and drew me against him. As he swept me into the dance, I closed my eyes, remembering his earlier gesture.
I had cried until there were no more tears, and rested against the commander’s wet shoulder, tired with the force of the storm that had passed. I lay against him, listening to his steady heartbeat, feeling his even breath ruffle the hair on the top of my head.
“Perhaps this is a good opportunity,” he said as we whirled around the dance floor, our bodies moving in perfect rhythm, “for an apology.”
I stumbled over my own feet. If he hadn’t tightened his arm around me, I might have fallen. “Why?” It was all I could manage.
“I didn’t set you up,” he said solemnly.
I lowered my eyes to his lapel. “Then why did you ask me into your office?”
“I wanted to discuss your future. You seemed to be in a one of your rare receptive moods and I brought up Keith’s departure to help you understand that everyone has a purpose in life. There was nothing sinister or manipulative about it.”
“Did you have to make it an order? Couldn’t you just have asked me?”
“That was my plan. I was trying to explain the situation first, but you jumped to my throat so fast I never had a chance. So I decided not to give you that option.”
Before I could say anything, a sudden turn in the dance startled me into looking up. He was studying me with intent eyes. He stopped turning as soon as he had my attention.
“The Garrison needs your help, lieutenant. Will you accept my offer?”
The music ceased, leaving us standing awkwardly in the middle of the floor. I could see the sidelong glances; hear the snickering and the curious murmurs about the teacher’s pet.
“Alright.”
“Good. Now that that’s settled.” A female singer began a slow version of “Fly Me to the Moon” and his arms tightened, pulling me closer in a way guaranteed to provoke more comments.
“Please, sir,” I hissed, squirming. “They’re going to talk.”
I heard his low rumble of laughter, his body shaking against mine as we danced to the slow music. “About the teacher’s pet?”
I turned beet red. “You know about that?”
“Lieutenant, they do not know how hard you studied to be here. And believe me when I say this… you’re no teacher’s pet.”
The conversation with the commander on the eve of the graduation ball had upset me greatly, and I needed to be alone to regain my composure. For hours I sat in front of the mirror, simply staring at my own pale reflection, seeing nothing. I just didn’t want to go the dance without Keith.
“I can’t believe I let you bully me into this,” I whispered to Lisa as she and I descended the polished marble steps that spilled down into the crowded ballroom of the Academy. “Sinda has Krik and you have Jeff. I don’t want to be a fifth wheel.”
“Now you’re being ridiculous, Gin,” Lisa said firmly. “The boys are asking for you because they want to dance with you, especially Rocky and Wolo,” she said as we the reached the bottom of the steps to walk our way through the crush of graduates and guests.
“Besides, I don’t think Keith would like for you to miss the ball.” She sighed wistfully. “You must go!” she exclaimed, distracted by the sight of Jeff weaving through the crowd. It was the only argument Lisa could have made to persuade me to join the celebration I thought, as she took Jeff’s hand and melted into the crowd.
Although the dancing had yet to begin, a 1970s retro band was warming up on the balcony at the far end of the ballroom. I had just reached my table where my family sat when the band began to pick out the plaintive notes of “One” by Three Dog Night.
I closed my eyes. Why did they choose that stupid song?
Feeling as if a crushing weight was dropped on my shoulders, I glanced toward the top the stairs hoping to see a smiling Keith, only to find myself gazing directly into a pair of mocking gray eyes.
Commander Hawkins stood garbed in full dress uniform of an Alliance officer. A wave of rumors and admiring glances greeted his arrival. He seemed even more heroic and dashing.
He turned to my folks. “Good evening,” he greeted pleasantly, smiling as he shook hands with each of them, congratulating them for having a lieutenant in their family. Only I knew how much of a hero he really was. I wouldn’t be sitting here if he hadn’t convinced me to come back and graduate.
“Lieutenant, I asked you a question.”
His voice made me feel butterflies in my stomach. From the corner of my eye, I could see my mother and sisters smiling and I felt the color creeping up my neck and into my face.
“Excuse me?”
“May I have this dance?”
He waited, as still as a panther ready to pounce, his eyes fixed on my face.
Sighing, I tucked my gloved hand in his.
Fortunately, the band continued with disco songs making conversation impossible. Even as we joined the line of dancers, I was aware of every step Hawkins took, every glance he received from some of the older women. It wasn’t hard to follow his path. He towered head and shoulders over most of the men in the room. In all the time, he didn’t seem to spare me a single glance.
Suddenly the cords of “I’ve Got You under My Skin” filled the room and we stood face to face.
I swallowed hard, expecting him to take me back to my table.
“Shall we?”
He slipped one arm around my waist and drew me against him. As he swept me into the dance, I closed my eyes, remembering his earlier gesture.
I had cried until there were no more tears, and rested against the commander’s wet shoulder, tired with the force of the storm that had passed. I lay against him, listening to his steady heartbeat, feeling his even breath ruffle the hair on the top of my head.
“Perhaps this is a good opportunity,” he said as we whirled around the dance floor, our bodies moving in perfect rhythm, “for an apology.”
I stumbled over my own feet. If he hadn’t tightened his arm around me, I might have fallen. “Why?” It was all I could manage.
“I didn’t set you up,” he said solemnly.
I lowered my eyes to his lapel. “Then why did you ask me into your office?”
“I wanted to discuss your future. You seemed to be in a one of your rare receptive moods and I brought up Keith’s departure to help you understand that everyone has a purpose in life. There was nothing sinister or manipulative about it.”
“Did you have to make it an order? Couldn’t you just have asked me?”
“That was my plan. I was trying to explain the situation first, but you jumped to my throat so fast I never had a chance. So I decided not to give you that option.”
Before I could say anything, a sudden turn in the dance startled me into looking up. He was studying me with intent eyes. He stopped turning as soon as he had my attention.
“The Garrison needs your help, lieutenant. Will you accept my offer?”
The music ceased, leaving us standing awkwardly in the middle of the floor. I could see the sidelong glances; hear the snickering and the curious murmurs about the teacher’s pet.
“Alright.”
“Good. Now that that’s settled.” A female singer began a slow version of “Fly Me to the Moon” and his arms tightened, pulling me closer in a way guaranteed to provoke more comments.
“Please, sir,” I hissed, squirming. “They’re going to talk.”
I heard his low rumble of laughter, his body shaking against mine as we danced to the slow music. “About the teacher’s pet?”
I turned beet red. “You know about that?”
“Lieutenant, they do not know how hard you studied to be here. And believe me when I say this… you’re no teacher’s pet.”
The Explorer, December 30, 2305
Days later, Commander Hawkins asked me to come into his office. He moved away from me, giving me space, his body fluid and powerful. He shoved a hand through his thick mane of black hair, his eyes drifting over me strangely.
“I suppose you’ve heard the news.”
“Yes, the unit commanded by Keith- along with Lance, Sven, Hunk and Pidge has crash-landed on Arus after escaping from Doom, and they have found the Voltron lions.”
He folded his arms across his broad chest and leaned one hip against the desk.
I studied his face, bathed in the silvery light of the overhead lights. He was very handsome; his angular face was of a man, not a boy, with his sensual mouth; his eyes that could smolder with anger or be cold with indifference. He held himself aloof, careful not to pressure me. I was thankful for that.
“You know I was following procedures.” His voice was strictly neutral. I knew he was making a point. He was not compelling me. I either trusted him or I didn’t. It was that simple.
“Yes,” I conceded. “I’m sorry, it was wrong of me to question your decision. Let’s hope they form Voltron before Zarkon sends his whole fleet after them.”
He smiled briefly. “Like you, Keith and the boys were thoroughly trained on survival and self defense. They’ll get the job done. Trust me.”
There was a knock on the door. It opened and a Garrison officer looked in. “They have arrived, sir.”
“Thank you.” Hawkins turned to me. “Come with me.”
“Yes, sir.” I got up.
He pressed his lips together into a thin line, and then nodded to the officer. I didn’t say anything more until we reached the conference room.
Hawkins opened the door and waved the officer away. He hardly saw me as I came in and closed the door. He was lost in his thoughts.
Space Marshall Graham was sitting at the head of the table, Commodore Steele to his right, Captain Newley to his left.
In front of them sat Jeff, Rocky, Wolo, Chip, Krik, Lisa, Zandee, Shannon, Tangor, Sinda, Modock, Marvin, Hutch and Cliff.
Steele looked up. “Ah, there you are Lieutenant Paddington.”
“Sir,” I said, giving them a military salute.
“Go and join the rest of your friends.”
I walked over and sat between Rocky and Wolo. Hawkins sat next to Newley.
Graham asked us to stand up at attention facing the flag of Galaxy Garrison to pledge the oath for commissioned officers. Those words that I shall never forget…
“I, having been appointed an officer of the Galaxy Garrison, do now of my own free will, after having been advised and warned of the meaning and consequences of this oath, join for not less than four years and as much longer as maybe be required by the needs of the Alliance. And I’ll bear true faith to its principals and allegiance to the same.”
Smiling, Graham lowered his hand. “Congratulations, space explorers.”
Soon Commodore Steele fell into conversation about the origins of the Galaxy Alliance.
“As you all know, the Galaxy Alliance is a coalition of good star systems and planets that works for the freedom and peace of the universe. Unfortunately, many of these planets have become overcrowded and their resources are very limited, creating serious inner and inter-planetary problems. The Galaxy Garrison Council has adopted a plan to solve this problem.”
The picture of an awesome cruiser appeared in the screen, the camera zoomed in to its name- SS Explorer.
“We have commissioned this state-of-the-art star cruiser to undertake a very special mission- discover new suitable planets for colonization while encouraging inhabited worlds to join the Galaxy Alliance.”
Next on the screen – the formation sequence of Voltron.
“The mighty Voltron, created by HM King Alfor of Planet Arus composed of five robot lions and rediscovered by your comrades will be the key to the Alliance’s defense system in that part of the universe. However, our new mission will take us to space sectors far beyond the reach of the Voltron Lions. That’s why the Alliance has created-“
The next image was a fleet of fifteen vehicles of different characteristics. It included an awesome red fighter jet. He gave a brief description of each of them.
“These exploration vehicles are specially designed for planetary investigation. You have been assigned to pilot these vehicles.”
Steele nodded slowly. “I know what you’re thinking. Though these vehicles may have proved efficient at their designated tasks in their tests, they hardly appear to be a formidable adversary. But If the Drules decide to attack these so-called humble ships, they shall face this-”
The fifteen vehicles flew together in perfect formation and suddenly transformed into a huge robot! The last one was the red fighter jet which became its chest plate.
Its name- Vehicle Voltron, Defender of the Universe.
Next on the screen- a symbol framed by the title Voltron Force.
“Five years ago, the leadership recognized the need to design an official symbol and develop a theme to encourage young people and space explorers, and to build understanding and support for the Garrison. The Council has designated this insignia as the official symbol of the new Voltron Force.”
“As you can see, it has two main parts. The three spheres represent the Air, Land and Sea teams with their distinct capabilities: space superiority, rapid mobility, precision engagement, gathering of information and agile combat support. The lines connecting the spheres are meant to remind VV Force members of their challenge as a joint expeditionary force to respond rapidly to crises and to provide space power throughout the universe.”
“Commander Hawkins will be chief commander officer of the SS Explorer and the VV Force and Captain Newley will act as his second-in command. They will now give out the vehicle assignments. Please rise.”
That’s when I noticed fifteen small boxes on the table.
“First, the Land Team. Step forward when I call out your name,” Hawkins said. “Hutch.”
Hutch and Marvin were assigned All-Terrain Space Vehicles, the first one was the left foot and the second was the right foot. Next he called Modock, he got a Jet Radar Station- the left hand. Sinda received a Rotating Personnel Carrier- the right hand.
“Cliff.”
Smiling, he stepped forward and received his box. “You will lead the Land Team. Your vehicle is an Armored Equipment Carrier- the waist of Voltron.”
The Sea Team came next. Tangor was assigned a Multi-Wheeled Explorer- the left lower leg. Shannon got the other MW Explorer, the right lower leg. Zandee received one Space Prober- the left upper leg; Lisa was assigned the other- the right upper leg.
“Krik.”
He stepped forward. “You will lead the Sea Team. You will pilot the Communications Module- the midsection of Voltron.”
Chip got one Advanced Recon Helicopter- the left arm of Voltron. Wolo was assigned the other AR Helicopter- the right arm.
“Rocky.”
“Here!”
Everyone chuckled at his outburst. Hawkins just shook his head and gave him his box. “You will pilot the Strato Weapons Module- the chest of Voltron.”
“Thank you, sir,” he said obviously moved, and went over to stand next to Wolo.
“Jeff.”
He stepped forward. “You will lead of the Air Team and fly the Command Jet Explorer- the head of Voltron.”
“Thanks, commander.”
Hawkins then looked at me. “Ginger.”
I came forward and watched as he took the last remaining box, holding it to me on the palm of his hand. A shiny lacquer black box, with the VVF Symbol embossed in gold on the cover.
“Open it.”
Smiling, I opened the box. Inside was a gold key with three brightly colored gemstones- diamond, ruby and sapphire. I held the key up to the light and drank in the beautiful colors. Its design clean and exquisite.
“Ginger,” he said solemnly. “You will pilot the red fighter jet, the chest plate of Voltron.”
“Thank you, sir.”
I stood next to Rocky who grinned at me. “And you thought he was giving you office duty,” he whispered.
Jeff stepped forward and turning around, read the card included in his box.
“Team, this will be the Voltron Force’s creed- Freedom and peace for everyone on every planet everywhere!”
“Freedom and peace for everyone on every planet everywhere!” We replied in unison.
“And our battle cry will be- Let’s go Voltron Force!”
Days later, Commander Hawkins asked me to come into his office. He moved away from me, giving me space, his body fluid and powerful. He shoved a hand through his thick mane of black hair, his eyes drifting over me strangely.
“I suppose you’ve heard the news.”
“Yes, the unit commanded by Keith- along with Lance, Sven, Hunk and Pidge has crash-landed on Arus after escaping from Doom, and they have found the Voltron lions.”
He folded his arms across his broad chest and leaned one hip against the desk.
I studied his face, bathed in the silvery light of the overhead lights. He was very handsome; his angular face was of a man, not a boy, with his sensual mouth; his eyes that could smolder with anger or be cold with indifference. He held himself aloof, careful not to pressure me. I was thankful for that.
“You know I was following procedures.” His voice was strictly neutral. I knew he was making a point. He was not compelling me. I either trusted him or I didn’t. It was that simple.
“Yes,” I conceded. “I’m sorry, it was wrong of me to question your decision. Let’s hope they form Voltron before Zarkon sends his whole fleet after them.”
He smiled briefly. “Like you, Keith and the boys were thoroughly trained on survival and self defense. They’ll get the job done. Trust me.”
There was a knock on the door. It opened and a Garrison officer looked in. “They have arrived, sir.”
“Thank you.” Hawkins turned to me. “Come with me.”
“Yes, sir.” I got up.
He pressed his lips together into a thin line, and then nodded to the officer. I didn’t say anything more until we reached the conference room.
Hawkins opened the door and waved the officer away. He hardly saw me as I came in and closed the door. He was lost in his thoughts.
Space Marshall Graham was sitting at the head of the table, Commodore Steele to his right, Captain Newley to his left.
In front of them sat Jeff, Rocky, Wolo, Chip, Krik, Lisa, Zandee, Shannon, Tangor, Sinda, Modock, Marvin, Hutch and Cliff.
Steele looked up. “Ah, there you are Lieutenant Paddington.”
“Sir,” I said, giving them a military salute.
“Go and join the rest of your friends.”
I walked over and sat between Rocky and Wolo. Hawkins sat next to Newley.
Graham asked us to stand up at attention facing the flag of Galaxy Garrison to pledge the oath for commissioned officers. Those words that I shall never forget…
“I, having been appointed an officer of the Galaxy Garrison, do now of my own free will, after having been advised and warned of the meaning and consequences of this oath, join for not less than four years and as much longer as maybe be required by the needs of the Alliance. And I’ll bear true faith to its principals and allegiance to the same.”
Smiling, Graham lowered his hand. “Congratulations, space explorers.”
Soon Commodore Steele fell into conversation about the origins of the Galaxy Alliance.
“As you all know, the Galaxy Alliance is a coalition of good star systems and planets that works for the freedom and peace of the universe. Unfortunately, many of these planets have become overcrowded and their resources are very limited, creating serious inner and inter-planetary problems. The Galaxy Garrison Council has adopted a plan to solve this problem.”
The picture of an awesome cruiser appeared in the screen, the camera zoomed in to its name- SS Explorer.
“We have commissioned this state-of-the-art star cruiser to undertake a very special mission- discover new suitable planets for colonization while encouraging inhabited worlds to join the Galaxy Alliance.”
Next on the screen – the formation sequence of Voltron.
“The mighty Voltron, created by HM King Alfor of Planet Arus composed of five robot lions and rediscovered by your comrades will be the key to the Alliance’s defense system in that part of the universe. However, our new mission will take us to space sectors far beyond the reach of the Voltron Lions. That’s why the Alliance has created-“
The next image was a fleet of fifteen vehicles of different characteristics. It included an awesome red fighter jet. He gave a brief description of each of them.
“These exploration vehicles are specially designed for planetary investigation. You have been assigned to pilot these vehicles.”
Steele nodded slowly. “I know what you’re thinking. Though these vehicles may have proved efficient at their designated tasks in their tests, they hardly appear to be a formidable adversary. But If the Drules decide to attack these so-called humble ships, they shall face this-”
The fifteen vehicles flew together in perfect formation and suddenly transformed into a huge robot! The last one was the red fighter jet which became its chest plate.
Its name- Vehicle Voltron, Defender of the Universe.
Next on the screen- a symbol framed by the title Voltron Force.
“Five years ago, the leadership recognized the need to design an official symbol and develop a theme to encourage young people and space explorers, and to build understanding and support for the Garrison. The Council has designated this insignia as the official symbol of the new Voltron Force.”
“As you can see, it has two main parts. The three spheres represent the Air, Land and Sea teams with their distinct capabilities: space superiority, rapid mobility, precision engagement, gathering of information and agile combat support. The lines connecting the spheres are meant to remind VV Force members of their challenge as a joint expeditionary force to respond rapidly to crises and to provide space power throughout the universe.”
“Commander Hawkins will be chief commander officer of the SS Explorer and the VV Force and Captain Newley will act as his second-in command. They will now give out the vehicle assignments. Please rise.”
That’s when I noticed fifteen small boxes on the table.
“First, the Land Team. Step forward when I call out your name,” Hawkins said. “Hutch.”
Hutch and Marvin were assigned All-Terrain Space Vehicles, the first one was the left foot and the second was the right foot. Next he called Modock, he got a Jet Radar Station- the left hand. Sinda received a Rotating Personnel Carrier- the right hand.
“Cliff.”
Smiling, he stepped forward and received his box. “You will lead the Land Team. Your vehicle is an Armored Equipment Carrier- the waist of Voltron.”
The Sea Team came next. Tangor was assigned a Multi-Wheeled Explorer- the left lower leg. Shannon got the other MW Explorer, the right lower leg. Zandee received one Space Prober- the left upper leg; Lisa was assigned the other- the right upper leg.
“Krik.”
He stepped forward. “You will lead the Sea Team. You will pilot the Communications Module- the midsection of Voltron.”
Chip got one Advanced Recon Helicopter- the left arm of Voltron. Wolo was assigned the other AR Helicopter- the right arm.
“Rocky.”
“Here!”
Everyone chuckled at his outburst. Hawkins just shook his head and gave him his box. “You will pilot the Strato Weapons Module- the chest of Voltron.”
“Thank you, sir,” he said obviously moved, and went over to stand next to Wolo.
“Jeff.”
He stepped forward. “You will lead of the Air Team and fly the Command Jet Explorer- the head of Voltron.”
“Thanks, commander.”
Hawkins then looked at me. “Ginger.”
I came forward and watched as he took the last remaining box, holding it to me on the palm of his hand. A shiny lacquer black box, with the VVF Symbol embossed in gold on the cover.
“Open it.”
Smiling, I opened the box. Inside was a gold key with three brightly colored gemstones- diamond, ruby and sapphire. I held the key up to the light and drank in the beautiful colors. Its design clean and exquisite.
“Ginger,” he said solemnly. “You will pilot the red fighter jet, the chest plate of Voltron.”
“Thank you, sir.”
I stood next to Rocky who grinned at me. “And you thought he was giving you office duty,” he whispered.
Jeff stepped forward and turning around, read the card included in his box.
“Team, this will be the Voltron Force’s creed- Freedom and peace for everyone on every planet everywhere!”
“Freedom and peace for everyone on every planet everywhere!” We replied in unison.
“And our battle cry will be- Let’s go Voltron Force!”
The Explorer, December 31, 2305
The tables in the rec room were mostly filled, but I saw Ginger, Cliff, Sinda, Jeff and Lisa at a table in the corner. “Can I join you?” I asked Ginger. She smiled tenuously and moved over to give me room, straightening the collar on her uniform and fiddling with her hair.
“You seem a little bored, Jeff.”
He smiled. “Not at all, commander. I prefer days like these, where we can enjoy rest and a game or two.”
“Before we get to Arus to celebrate New Year’s,” Sinda added.
Cliff grinned. “Perhaps we could practice our prowess with the crossbow.”
“Oh, yes,” Lisa interjected pulling his attention back to herself. “Just like in the Hunger Games.”
He chuckled. “Hardly that, I don’t want to end up like Peeta.”
“May I ask who is Peeta?”
“Peeta Mellark, sir,” Jeff said. “A character from the book Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, about a distant future where young people are forced to fight to the death on live television.”
“Come watch, sir,” Cliff suggested. “We’ll set up a target- no one’s heart, of course- and stage a contest.” He winked at Lisa. “The prize could be a gift certificate from Ginger. After all, it is a gamble. I might not win.”
Ginger laughed softly. “You? Lose an archery contest? I don’t think so. You may claim a gift certificate as your prize.”
“Fine, we’ll get started,” Krik said. He and the rest of the VV Force had come over to the table just in time to hear the proposal.
Each man took a turn firing an arrow, until only I was left to compete. The target was a picture of Commander Throk nailed to the wall some distance away. I took up a position farther than anyone else, brought the bow to my shoulder, took aim and let the arrow fly. It pierced the picture dead center.
Applause and shouts of congratulations exploded from the crew.
“Commander Hawkins wins!”
“The commander collects!”
“Not yet,” I said. “Ginger, come here and I’ll teach you the crossbow.”
“Me?”
“One never knows when such a skill could be of great benefit.”
She knew everyone was watching. “Well, I’ve read the Hunger Games trilogy, watched the movies and the Olympic Games.”
“Then by all means, we must give you a fair chance to win the contest.”
She winced. “Oh no, sir. I don’t really know how to shoot that well. Besides, you’ve already won. Let me get you the certificate.”
“Don’t go,” I ordered, reaching for the crossbow.
“Please, I’ve never shot one,” she replied. “I have no idea how it’s done.” She started to turn away, but I stopped her with my hand on her shoulder.
“I’ll help you,” I said in a voice that left no room for refusal. Placing the crossbow in her hands, I positioned the missile. “Draw it toward you, secure it there, and release the trigger.”
She tugged the bowstring backward, the quarrel slipped from her fingers and clattered to the floor. My lips were twitching as I picked up the arrow at her feet.
“Come on, Ginger, show your friends you can give Katniss Everdeen a run for her money.”
Her eyes narrowed. “You have read the books, sir,” she whispered accusingly.
“And watched the movies. Try again.”
Sighing, she made a new attempt to insert the arrow into the crossbow. My arm went around her shoulders, my hand covering hers and clasping the string.
She looked back at me. Her blue eyes captured mine with their intensity, their sudden warmth, their sensual challenge.
“Shoot.”
Biting her lower lip, she stared again at the target.
The tables in the rec room were mostly filled, but I saw Ginger, Cliff, Sinda, Jeff and Lisa at a table in the corner. “Can I join you?” I asked Ginger. She smiled tenuously and moved over to give me room, straightening the collar on her uniform and fiddling with her hair.
“You seem a little bored, Jeff.”
He smiled. “Not at all, commander. I prefer days like these, where we can enjoy rest and a game or two.”
“Before we get to Arus to celebrate New Year’s,” Sinda added.
Cliff grinned. “Perhaps we could practice our prowess with the crossbow.”
“Oh, yes,” Lisa interjected pulling his attention back to herself. “Just like in the Hunger Games.”
He chuckled. “Hardly that, I don’t want to end up like Peeta.”
“May I ask who is Peeta?”
“Peeta Mellark, sir,” Jeff said. “A character from the book Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, about a distant future where young people are forced to fight to the death on live television.”
“Come watch, sir,” Cliff suggested. “We’ll set up a target- no one’s heart, of course- and stage a contest.” He winked at Lisa. “The prize could be a gift certificate from Ginger. After all, it is a gamble. I might not win.”
Ginger laughed softly. “You? Lose an archery contest? I don’t think so. You may claim a gift certificate as your prize.”
“Fine, we’ll get started,” Krik said. He and the rest of the VV Force had come over to the table just in time to hear the proposal.
Each man took a turn firing an arrow, until only I was left to compete. The target was a picture of Commander Throk nailed to the wall some distance away. I took up a position farther than anyone else, brought the bow to my shoulder, took aim and let the arrow fly. It pierced the picture dead center.
Applause and shouts of congratulations exploded from the crew.
“Commander Hawkins wins!”
“The commander collects!”
“Not yet,” I said. “Ginger, come here and I’ll teach you the crossbow.”
“Me?”
“One never knows when such a skill could be of great benefit.”
She knew everyone was watching. “Well, I’ve read the Hunger Games trilogy, watched the movies and the Olympic Games.”
“Then by all means, we must give you a fair chance to win the contest.”
She winced. “Oh no, sir. I don’t really know how to shoot that well. Besides, you’ve already won. Let me get you the certificate.”
“Don’t go,” I ordered, reaching for the crossbow.
“Please, I’ve never shot one,” she replied. “I have no idea how it’s done.” She started to turn away, but I stopped her with my hand on her shoulder.
“I’ll help you,” I said in a voice that left no room for refusal. Placing the crossbow in her hands, I positioned the missile. “Draw it toward you, secure it there, and release the trigger.”
She tugged the bowstring backward, the quarrel slipped from her fingers and clattered to the floor. My lips were twitching as I picked up the arrow at her feet.
“Come on, Ginger, show your friends you can give Katniss Everdeen a run for her money.”
Her eyes narrowed. “You have read the books, sir,” she whispered accusingly.
“And watched the movies. Try again.”
Sighing, she made a new attempt to insert the arrow into the crossbow. My arm went around her shoulders, my hand covering hers and clasping the string.
She looked back at me. Her blue eyes captured mine with their intensity, their sudden warmth, their sensual challenge.
“Shoot.”
Biting her lower lip, she stared again at the target.
Oh my, how can I concentrate with Hawkins so close to me, his arms encircling mine, his lips brushing my hair? I felt his muscles contract along my arm and across my back, his legs press against mine. His mouth was so near my cheek I could feel his breath on my skin.
Slowly, he drew back the quarrel, taking my hand inside his. My left arm was extended. His left arm was beside it, lending his power until he took the entire pressure into himself.
“Now,” he growled. As one, we fired the missile. It flew away and struck the picture in the same hole as his previous shot.
I was barely aware of the cheers as Hawkins released me as quickly as the quarrel. My ears were ringing, my breathing uneven and my stomach was filled with butterflies. My fingers and arms tingled from the effort of drawing the string as he took the bow and gave me a look of satisfaction.
His sudden pleasant manner was more disturbing than his coolness. He could be likable, as well as the most attractive man I had ever set my eyes on. He was physically powerful and remarkably intelligent. Combine that with humor and charm and he could be irresistible.
“Thank you, sir,” I said as I turned and made my way back to my seat. Everyone was clapping, smiling and giving pleasant comments. Except Cliff who didn’t like to lose at crossbow. I avoided his eyes as I sat next to Lisa.
Cliff was about to speak when the speakers blared out, “Attention, attention! ETA to Arus fifteen minutes!“
We leaped into action and headed for our ships while the rest of the crew went to the shuttles.
Slowly, he drew back the quarrel, taking my hand inside his. My left arm was extended. His left arm was beside it, lending his power until he took the entire pressure into himself.
“Now,” he growled. As one, we fired the missile. It flew away and struck the picture in the same hole as his previous shot.
I was barely aware of the cheers as Hawkins released me as quickly as the quarrel. My ears were ringing, my breathing uneven and my stomach was filled with butterflies. My fingers and arms tingled from the effort of drawing the string as he took the bow and gave me a look of satisfaction.
His sudden pleasant manner was more disturbing than his coolness. He could be likable, as well as the most attractive man I had ever set my eyes on. He was physically powerful and remarkably intelligent. Combine that with humor and charm and he could be irresistible.
“Thank you, sir,” I said as I turned and made my way back to my seat. Everyone was clapping, smiling and giving pleasant comments. Except Cliff who didn’t like to lose at crossbow. I avoided his eyes as I sat next to Lisa.
Cliff was about to speak when the speakers blared out, “Attention, attention! ETA to Arus fifteen minutes!“
We leaped into action and headed for our ships while the rest of the crew went to the shuttles.
The Explorer, December 31, 2305
December was a time for surprises, and we had many of them. First was the invitation to Arus for a New Year’s Day celebration, followed by the news of Hawkins leaving the Explorer.
And then we were flying across the snow-covered Arusian countryside and I thought I had never seen anything more beautiful in my life. Beautiful and emotional because the silence in the cockpit made me focus on the fact that everything I share with Commander Hawkins today would be for the last time.
By the time we finally landed in the gardens of the Castle of Lions, I was barely holding myself together. Even the prospect of seeing Keith could not lift my spirits. What made the whole thing even harder was that Hawkins seemed completely energized.
The doors of the castle opened and we saw all the residents dressed up in all their finery. Princess Allura in a beautiful red satin gown and then there was Keith, Lance, Hunk and Pidge, dressed in their Alliance gala uniforms like us. Queen Orla, Princess Romelle and Sven were also in attendance.
I talked with Sven and Romelle for a while. He held a special place in my heart because he was there for me when I needed an antique book from the academy’s library that you could only borrow a couple of hours during business hours but I needed it for the whole evening. He had witnessed my discussion with Miss Olivia the library attendant (the old witch, she’s probably still there causing trouble) and later that evening he had appeared at my doorstep with the book and I was able to finish my essay on time. Afterwards I tried to return the favor but he always refused, just giving me a slight smile.
It was a bit strange to see him so talkative and smiling so much, but who could blame him? His princess was expecting their first child. “Any day now, Ginger,” he said, rubbing one hand lightly over Romelle’s belly.
“I’m not due for another two months,” she said, laughing softly.
Princess Allura gave me a dazzling smile. “Ginger, it’s so good to see you!”
“And you, your highness,” I said, holding out my hands to take hers.
“I asked you to call me Allura, we are friends, aren’t we?”
“Yes, of course!”
Within a second I was in Keith’s arms. I cast a helpless glance at Allura but she merely smiled and turned to say something to Lance, who gazed at me and grinned.
Keith felt solid and safe and was such an important part of my life, that I wondered why on earth I wanted to feel instead Hawkins’s body next to mine. The power of his arms around me. The intimate look in his gray eyes.
Both Voltron teams spent precious minutes catching up and it was a few moments before I realized that the entire castle had been transformed into a silver and white paradise. We had dinner at eight. It was after ten when Cliff led me into the ballroom.
I danced with Cliff, Rocky, Hunk, Lance, and then with Cliff again. As always, he flirted with me shamelessly, declaring me to be the most beautiful woman in the room. His hand caressed my hair, his lips brushed my cheeks.
Hawkins danced with nearly every female in attendance. Holding court at the center of the salon, he had charmed men and women alike with his humor, his smiles and effortless appeal. Even battle-ax Nanny fell under his spell!
He has danced with everyone… except me. He´s avoiding me, I thought angrily. And then as I waltzed around in Cliff’s arms, I could not understand why I was angry. Commander Hawkins was single after all. He could have any woman he wanted.
And I could not understand why Cliff didn’t go away. I glared at him. I tapped my boot restlessly. I even went so far as to place my arm through Keith’s arm and urged him to stroll with me around the edges of the dance floor. But even such actions proved useless. Cliff simply fell into step with us.
“Cliff,” I hissed, peering around Keith as I drew both men to a halt at the far wall, “please go ask someone to dance.”
“Who?” he asked with a grin, his head tilted a bit forward to see around Keith himself.
“I don’t care. Ask Allura or Lisa or Hunk. Ask anyone!”
“Go, Cliff,” Keith said. “You wish to speak about Voltron, and we will before the night is over. I promise. But I need to speak with Ginger… alone.”
“Why?” Cliff asked, scowling abruptly.
“None of your business,” he said, and then he chuckled at the look of astonishment on Cliff’s face. “Relax, my friend. You should try the punch. Lance and Sven spiked it with our favorite spirit.”
Cliff nodded, and set off toward the opposite side of the dance floor.
“I cannot think what got into him.”
“He’s in love with you.”
“No, he’s not. This is only a game for him.”
“If you say so,” he replied, flashing his boyish and irresistible smile. “Come,” he said, then took my hand. “I believe this is my dance.”
At the end of the waltz, Keith left for a moment to fetch me a glass of champagne.
Feeling suddenly warm, I left the crush inside the ballroom and went out the balcony that overlooked the lake. A breeze ruffled my hair and cooled my flushed cheeks.
Away in the distance, I could see the lights of the Explorer. In spite of my resolution to put Steven from my mind, I wondered if he had someone waiting for him back on Earth. It occurred to me that I had often thought of him as Steven, not as Commander Hawkins as I should. But it was easier, isn´t it? Thinking of him as Steven? That was the only reason, wasn’t it? Or was it?
Darn it, now I’m behaving like those silly women from the old Harlequin paperbacks!
“You are too quiet, Ginger,” Keith said, handing me a glass of champagne. “Don’t you feel well? Rocky said that you hardly ate anything at dinner.”
Geez, I had tried to disguise the fact that I had helped myself to very little food by spreading it around on my plate a bit… but obviously it had not escaped the keen eye of Rocky. He said I always brought out his protective side.
“I´m fine, it’s just that-“
“What?”
I sighed heavily. “In a few hours it will be New Year’s day.” And Steven will leave, I thought despairingly.
He gazed at me for a few moments and then nodded. “Ah, I understand,” he murmured. “The holidays make you blue. The same thing happens to me.”
“But you have Allura,” I said glancing up in surprise but he simply smiled as he lowered his glass.
“Ginger, sometimes life doesn’t turn out the way you plan it. When I arrived in Arus two years ago, my plan was to find the Robot Lions, form Voltron, defeat Zarkon and his minions and then return home for my next assignment.”
“But two years ago-“he paused and a faint smile touched his mouth “-I met a princess and all my plans changed. Instead of flying a space fighter, I was flying a black lion. Instead of analyzing space maps, I was forming a robot. When I arrived in Arus I had no plans of falling in love and certainly no plans of getting married-“
And then he looked at the princess standing in the doorway, his eyes full of love. “But that’s because I didn’t know people like Allura existed.”
His words cut the final thread of my control. I felt tears scald my eyes and I had the most awful feeling that my life had tumbled apart in the Explorer. I took a gulp of the champagne Keith had provided, blinking rapidly to stop the tears from falling.
Allura is very lucky to have Keith, I thought, observing as the princess took his arm. She’s both kind and beautiful. She will be a lovely and proper wife. I, on the other hand, will never marry. Despite my intentions, my thoughts turned again in the direction of Steven. For just an instant, I imagined not hearing his voice again, not hearing his lectures and teasing remarks. A sudden stab of loss made me realized how much I would miss him.
“Ginger, as a dear old friend of Keith’s, what do you think?” Allura asked, turning to look at me.
I smiled. “I’m delighted! About time you two accepted your love for each other.”
“Even though I’m a princess?”
“Please, this is the twenty-fourth century. Doesn’t matter if you’re a princess and he’s a space explorer.”
Allura was laughing through her tears. “That’s what I keep telling him.”
“It seems he finally understood.”
“Ginger is right,” he said, leaning his forehead against hers. “You know that I´ll do whatever it takes to make you happy, and I want you forever, so you might as well surrender without a fight.”
“Forever?” she whispered.
“Marry me, Princess,” he said urgently. “We need to give Nanny a baby to keep her busy while we protect our planet.”
Allura buried her face in his neck, half-laughing, half-crying. “Oh, Keith-”
“I think the rest of this conversation should be conducted in front of our guests,” he said. “Please join us, Ginger.”
“Of course,” I said, forcing a smile. “Lead the way.”
December was a time for surprises, and we had many of them. First was the invitation to Arus for a New Year’s Day celebration, followed by the news of Hawkins leaving the Explorer.
And then we were flying across the snow-covered Arusian countryside and I thought I had never seen anything more beautiful in my life. Beautiful and emotional because the silence in the cockpit made me focus on the fact that everything I share with Commander Hawkins today would be for the last time.
By the time we finally landed in the gardens of the Castle of Lions, I was barely holding myself together. Even the prospect of seeing Keith could not lift my spirits. What made the whole thing even harder was that Hawkins seemed completely energized.
The doors of the castle opened and we saw all the residents dressed up in all their finery. Princess Allura in a beautiful red satin gown and then there was Keith, Lance, Hunk and Pidge, dressed in their Alliance gala uniforms like us. Queen Orla, Princess Romelle and Sven were also in attendance.
I talked with Sven and Romelle for a while. He held a special place in my heart because he was there for me when I needed an antique book from the academy’s library that you could only borrow a couple of hours during business hours but I needed it for the whole evening. He had witnessed my discussion with Miss Olivia the library attendant (the old witch, she’s probably still there causing trouble) and later that evening he had appeared at my doorstep with the book and I was able to finish my essay on time. Afterwards I tried to return the favor but he always refused, just giving me a slight smile.
It was a bit strange to see him so talkative and smiling so much, but who could blame him? His princess was expecting their first child. “Any day now, Ginger,” he said, rubbing one hand lightly over Romelle’s belly.
“I’m not due for another two months,” she said, laughing softly.
Princess Allura gave me a dazzling smile. “Ginger, it’s so good to see you!”
“And you, your highness,” I said, holding out my hands to take hers.
“I asked you to call me Allura, we are friends, aren’t we?”
“Yes, of course!”
Within a second I was in Keith’s arms. I cast a helpless glance at Allura but she merely smiled and turned to say something to Lance, who gazed at me and grinned.
Keith felt solid and safe and was such an important part of my life, that I wondered why on earth I wanted to feel instead Hawkins’s body next to mine. The power of his arms around me. The intimate look in his gray eyes.
Both Voltron teams spent precious minutes catching up and it was a few moments before I realized that the entire castle had been transformed into a silver and white paradise. We had dinner at eight. It was after ten when Cliff led me into the ballroom.
I danced with Cliff, Rocky, Hunk, Lance, and then with Cliff again. As always, he flirted with me shamelessly, declaring me to be the most beautiful woman in the room. His hand caressed my hair, his lips brushed my cheeks.
Hawkins danced with nearly every female in attendance. Holding court at the center of the salon, he had charmed men and women alike with his humor, his smiles and effortless appeal. Even battle-ax Nanny fell under his spell!
He has danced with everyone… except me. He´s avoiding me, I thought angrily. And then as I waltzed around in Cliff’s arms, I could not understand why I was angry. Commander Hawkins was single after all. He could have any woman he wanted.
And I could not understand why Cliff didn’t go away. I glared at him. I tapped my boot restlessly. I even went so far as to place my arm through Keith’s arm and urged him to stroll with me around the edges of the dance floor. But even such actions proved useless. Cliff simply fell into step with us.
“Cliff,” I hissed, peering around Keith as I drew both men to a halt at the far wall, “please go ask someone to dance.”
“Who?” he asked with a grin, his head tilted a bit forward to see around Keith himself.
“I don’t care. Ask Allura or Lisa or Hunk. Ask anyone!”
“Go, Cliff,” Keith said. “You wish to speak about Voltron, and we will before the night is over. I promise. But I need to speak with Ginger… alone.”
“Why?” Cliff asked, scowling abruptly.
“None of your business,” he said, and then he chuckled at the look of astonishment on Cliff’s face. “Relax, my friend. You should try the punch. Lance and Sven spiked it with our favorite spirit.”
Cliff nodded, and set off toward the opposite side of the dance floor.
“I cannot think what got into him.”
“He’s in love with you.”
“No, he’s not. This is only a game for him.”
“If you say so,” he replied, flashing his boyish and irresistible smile. “Come,” he said, then took my hand. “I believe this is my dance.”
At the end of the waltz, Keith left for a moment to fetch me a glass of champagne.
Feeling suddenly warm, I left the crush inside the ballroom and went out the balcony that overlooked the lake. A breeze ruffled my hair and cooled my flushed cheeks.
Away in the distance, I could see the lights of the Explorer. In spite of my resolution to put Steven from my mind, I wondered if he had someone waiting for him back on Earth. It occurred to me that I had often thought of him as Steven, not as Commander Hawkins as I should. But it was easier, isn´t it? Thinking of him as Steven? That was the only reason, wasn’t it? Or was it?
Darn it, now I’m behaving like those silly women from the old Harlequin paperbacks!
“You are too quiet, Ginger,” Keith said, handing me a glass of champagne. “Don’t you feel well? Rocky said that you hardly ate anything at dinner.”
Geez, I had tried to disguise the fact that I had helped myself to very little food by spreading it around on my plate a bit… but obviously it had not escaped the keen eye of Rocky. He said I always brought out his protective side.
“I´m fine, it’s just that-“
“What?”
I sighed heavily. “In a few hours it will be New Year’s day.” And Steven will leave, I thought despairingly.
He gazed at me for a few moments and then nodded. “Ah, I understand,” he murmured. “The holidays make you blue. The same thing happens to me.”
“But you have Allura,” I said glancing up in surprise but he simply smiled as he lowered his glass.
“Ginger, sometimes life doesn’t turn out the way you plan it. When I arrived in Arus two years ago, my plan was to find the Robot Lions, form Voltron, defeat Zarkon and his minions and then return home for my next assignment.”
“But two years ago-“he paused and a faint smile touched his mouth “-I met a princess and all my plans changed. Instead of flying a space fighter, I was flying a black lion. Instead of analyzing space maps, I was forming a robot. When I arrived in Arus I had no plans of falling in love and certainly no plans of getting married-“
And then he looked at the princess standing in the doorway, his eyes full of love. “But that’s because I didn’t know people like Allura existed.”
His words cut the final thread of my control. I felt tears scald my eyes and I had the most awful feeling that my life had tumbled apart in the Explorer. I took a gulp of the champagne Keith had provided, blinking rapidly to stop the tears from falling.
Allura is very lucky to have Keith, I thought, observing as the princess took his arm. She’s both kind and beautiful. She will be a lovely and proper wife. I, on the other hand, will never marry. Despite my intentions, my thoughts turned again in the direction of Steven. For just an instant, I imagined not hearing his voice again, not hearing his lectures and teasing remarks. A sudden stab of loss made me realized how much I would miss him.
“Ginger, as a dear old friend of Keith’s, what do you think?” Allura asked, turning to look at me.
I smiled. “I’m delighted! About time you two accepted your love for each other.”
“Even though I’m a princess?”
“Please, this is the twenty-fourth century. Doesn’t matter if you’re a princess and he’s a space explorer.”
Allura was laughing through her tears. “That’s what I keep telling him.”
“It seems he finally understood.”
“Ginger is right,” he said, leaning his forehead against hers. “You know that I´ll do whatever it takes to make you happy, and I want you forever, so you might as well surrender without a fight.”
“Forever?” she whispered.
“Marry me, Princess,” he said urgently. “We need to give Nanny a baby to keep her busy while we protect our planet.”
Allura buried her face in his neck, half-laughing, half-crying. “Oh, Keith-”
“I think the rest of this conversation should be conducted in front of our guests,” he said. “Please join us, Ginger.”
“Of course,” I said, forcing a smile. “Lead the way.”
The Explorer, December 31, 2305
After Keith and Allura’s announcement, I excused myself from my teammates still standing near, and went across the hall to the observatory, which I knew would probably be empty. I needed to get away! I wanted to be back in the Explorer, in my cabin, safely tucked under my soft pink duvet.
Opening the door, I went inside, shutting it noiselessly behind me, and without switching on the light I moved over the huge armchair, which faced the windows. Its size didn’t give any indication anyone was already sitting there, but suddenly a gravelly voice said, “Ginger, what are you doing here?”
I nearly jumped from my skin. “I’m sorry sir,” I gasped. “I thought I would be alone for a while.”
The lights were turned on.
“Same here,” Captain Newley dropped the remote on the table and got up immediately.
He frowned. “Are you okay? Come sit down,” he said, taking my arm and leading me to the chair. “I´ll fetch you some water. You look like you could use some.” In a minute or two he returned, and I took the glass from him, drinking shakily.
He offered me his handkerchief. “Now tell me what this is all about, Ginger. Surely seeing a good friend announcing his engagement can’t be worth so many tears.”
I stared at him, my tears for the moment forgotten. “No, sir,” I said huskily. “It’s not that all.”
“What is it then?”
“I cannot be happy knowing Commander Hawkins is being transferred to Earth. I don’t want him to leave.”
“Why?”
I was too embarrassed to relate my dealings with Hawkins, but Newley probed until my defenses gave way and the need to confide in someone overcame my reserve. But the captain gave no sign of impatience, merely shaking his head when I finished. “You’re as stubborn as mules, both of you. I know Hawkins. He’s too unsure of himself to tell you he loves you unless you tell him first. And you do love him, don’t you?”
I stared at him, surprised. Somehow Newley had received a false impression of his true feelings. “Yes, I love him,” I admitted, “but he doesn’t love me. He simply tolerates me.”
“Ginger, I’m one of his closest friends. He confided in me about his feelings for you.”
“He never said anything, sir,” I said. “Never even a hint he cared about me that way.”
Newley left his champagne flute on the table and returned to the couch. “And I know what happened four years ago in the mountains.”
I blushed fiercely, and tried to cover up my embarrassment by sipping my water. “You know about that?”
“Of course I do. He was so shaken by his reaction to you that he arranged your return to the academy, even though the faculty was against the idea- including myself- for your lack of discipline. By then he was completely in love with you. He thought you were wonderful and smart, and more mature at eighteen than most of the older women he dated. All the same, you were giving him a terribly hard time, and he wasn’t willing to let you override his authority.”
“I don’t understand,” I said, finally beginning to believe that Hawkins might really care about me. “He was so arrogant at the academy, flattening every objection I raised, flunking me constantly. Of course I was totally impossible, too. I just didn’t want to admit how I felt.”
“He felt the same way about you since the academy,” Newley said. “But the magna-mines incident changed everything. You might not remember this, but Hawkins was the first one on deck and took you out of the cockpit. He didn’t wait for the medics; he carried you in his arms and brought you to the med wing.”
Tears pricked my eyes as I stared up at him. I did remember someone holding me, someone with a strong, warm chest and a deep, male voice. The pain in my head was so terrible that I didn’t have the strength to open my eyes. But I instinctively knew I was safe in those arms. That everything would be okay, because he kept saying it over and over.
“He felt so helpless when the mine attached to your wing exploded and you crashed against the Explorer, sustaining severe head trauma and internal injuries. He said it was hell seeing you like that. It was a pain unlike any he had ever felt before, more than torn tissues and broken bones, much more. He feared losing you without telling you his true feelings.”
“Really?” I managed to choke out through a tight throat.
Newley nodded. “Still you resisted every move he made, and he was so frustrated by it that sometimes his temper got the better of him and he simply exploded.”
“What am I going to do, sir?”
“You must talk to him,” he said solemnly. “The sooner the better.”
After Keith and Allura’s announcement, I excused myself from my teammates still standing near, and went across the hall to the observatory, which I knew would probably be empty. I needed to get away! I wanted to be back in the Explorer, in my cabin, safely tucked under my soft pink duvet.
Opening the door, I went inside, shutting it noiselessly behind me, and without switching on the light I moved over the huge armchair, which faced the windows. Its size didn’t give any indication anyone was already sitting there, but suddenly a gravelly voice said, “Ginger, what are you doing here?”
I nearly jumped from my skin. “I’m sorry sir,” I gasped. “I thought I would be alone for a while.”
The lights were turned on.
“Same here,” Captain Newley dropped the remote on the table and got up immediately.
He frowned. “Are you okay? Come sit down,” he said, taking my arm and leading me to the chair. “I´ll fetch you some water. You look like you could use some.” In a minute or two he returned, and I took the glass from him, drinking shakily.
He offered me his handkerchief. “Now tell me what this is all about, Ginger. Surely seeing a good friend announcing his engagement can’t be worth so many tears.”
I stared at him, my tears for the moment forgotten. “No, sir,” I said huskily. “It’s not that all.”
“What is it then?”
“I cannot be happy knowing Commander Hawkins is being transferred to Earth. I don’t want him to leave.”
“Why?”
I was too embarrassed to relate my dealings with Hawkins, but Newley probed until my defenses gave way and the need to confide in someone overcame my reserve. But the captain gave no sign of impatience, merely shaking his head when I finished. “You’re as stubborn as mules, both of you. I know Hawkins. He’s too unsure of himself to tell you he loves you unless you tell him first. And you do love him, don’t you?”
I stared at him, surprised. Somehow Newley had received a false impression of his true feelings. “Yes, I love him,” I admitted, “but he doesn’t love me. He simply tolerates me.”
“Ginger, I’m one of his closest friends. He confided in me about his feelings for you.”
“He never said anything, sir,” I said. “Never even a hint he cared about me that way.”
Newley left his champagne flute on the table and returned to the couch. “And I know what happened four years ago in the mountains.”
I blushed fiercely, and tried to cover up my embarrassment by sipping my water. “You know about that?”
“Of course I do. He was so shaken by his reaction to you that he arranged your return to the academy, even though the faculty was against the idea- including myself- for your lack of discipline. By then he was completely in love with you. He thought you were wonderful and smart, and more mature at eighteen than most of the older women he dated. All the same, you were giving him a terribly hard time, and he wasn’t willing to let you override his authority.”
“I don’t understand,” I said, finally beginning to believe that Hawkins might really care about me. “He was so arrogant at the academy, flattening every objection I raised, flunking me constantly. Of course I was totally impossible, too. I just didn’t want to admit how I felt.”
“He felt the same way about you since the academy,” Newley said. “But the magna-mines incident changed everything. You might not remember this, but Hawkins was the first one on deck and took you out of the cockpit. He didn’t wait for the medics; he carried you in his arms and brought you to the med wing.”
Tears pricked my eyes as I stared up at him. I did remember someone holding me, someone with a strong, warm chest and a deep, male voice. The pain in my head was so terrible that I didn’t have the strength to open my eyes. But I instinctively knew I was safe in those arms. That everything would be okay, because he kept saying it over and over.
“He felt so helpless when the mine attached to your wing exploded and you crashed against the Explorer, sustaining severe head trauma and internal injuries. He said it was hell seeing you like that. It was a pain unlike any he had ever felt before, more than torn tissues and broken bones, much more. He feared losing you without telling you his true feelings.”
“Really?” I managed to choke out through a tight throat.
Newley nodded. “Still you resisted every move he made, and he was so frustrated by it that sometimes his temper got the better of him and he simply exploded.”
“What am I going to do, sir?”
“You must talk to him,” he said solemnly. “The sooner the better.”
The Explorer, December 31, 2305
The breeze washed over my face as I looked up at the night sky. Thousands of stars twinkled and glittered overhead. I inhaled to take the clean Arusian air, washing the spaceship smell from my lungs.
A vision of Ginger in the ballroom- strands of strawberry blond hair flitting around her heart-shaped face, tip-tilted nose and full lips- arose at once before me, making me smile. This was followed by memories of our earlier encounter in the crossbow competition- the sweet, fresh scent of her, the husky whisper of her voice, the silken touch of her fingers on my hand, the softness of her curves against my body.
That slip of a girl did things to me no other woman had managed to do in more years that I cared to count. She had exposed my life as the hollow, solitary existence it was, bringing up the need for something more meaningful than work and an endless series of shallow, short-term relationships.
Enough! There is only now and the future. My stint in the Explorer will soon be over and she will be part of my past-
“Sir?”
She stood there, the young woman that haunted my dreams, fragile and alone. I had never been vulnerable to anyone or anything but I knew deep in my soul that she could bring me to my knees.
She walked up straight up to me and pulled out a small golden envelope from her pocket.
“Happy birthday, sir.”
I didn’t take it immediately, but stared at her for a long moment.
“How did you know?”
“I have my sources.”
With a small smile of acknowledgement, I reached forward and took the envelope and put it in my pocket. “Thank you,” I said. “You shouldn’t have bothered… I could have waited until morning.”
“It was no bother.”
“Are you alright?” I asked gently.
“Yes, this evening has been full of surprises,” She looked sad, her blue eyes revealing her inner turmoil.
Unable to help myself, I cupped her face with both hands. “I’m sorry, Ginger, had I known that you were really in love with Keith, I wouldn’t have asked him to come to Arus.”
“Really?” she asked softly.
“Really.”
Her eyes locked with mine. I knew she was seeing the coldness in me; I could only hope she was seeing the regret-
“Ohmp!”
She jumped so hard against me that she almost knocked me over. She buried her face against my neck and hugged me tightly. “Please, sir, don’t go back to Terra!”
I winced. She knew I was leaving. “Okay, now,” I muttered. I swept my hands up and down her back. “Please, you know I’m not good with tears.”
She pulled back and looked at me with a mixture of sadness and desperation I couldn’t understand.
“Ginger-“
“Don’t leave me,” she whispered, covering my mouth with hers; her lips moving over mine and drawing the breath from me, surprised at her boldness, yet thrilled by it as well.
My arms were so tight she could hardly breathe, but she didn’t seem to care because she was holding me just as tightly, her hands running madly over my shoulders, over my neck, into my hair as our tongues learned each other’s taste.
“I love you, Steven,” she cried when our lips parted. “And you love me.”
I closed my eyes briefly, savoring the words, and then opened them again.
The breeze washed over my face as I looked up at the night sky. Thousands of stars twinkled and glittered overhead. I inhaled to take the clean Arusian air, washing the spaceship smell from my lungs.
A vision of Ginger in the ballroom- strands of strawberry blond hair flitting around her heart-shaped face, tip-tilted nose and full lips- arose at once before me, making me smile. This was followed by memories of our earlier encounter in the crossbow competition- the sweet, fresh scent of her, the husky whisper of her voice, the silken touch of her fingers on my hand, the softness of her curves against my body.
That slip of a girl did things to me no other woman had managed to do in more years that I cared to count. She had exposed my life as the hollow, solitary existence it was, bringing up the need for something more meaningful than work and an endless series of shallow, short-term relationships.
Enough! There is only now and the future. My stint in the Explorer will soon be over and she will be part of my past-
“Sir?”
She stood there, the young woman that haunted my dreams, fragile and alone. I had never been vulnerable to anyone or anything but I knew deep in my soul that she could bring me to my knees.
She walked up straight up to me and pulled out a small golden envelope from her pocket.
“Happy birthday, sir.”
I didn’t take it immediately, but stared at her for a long moment.
“How did you know?”
“I have my sources.”
With a small smile of acknowledgement, I reached forward and took the envelope and put it in my pocket. “Thank you,” I said. “You shouldn’t have bothered… I could have waited until morning.”
“It was no bother.”
“Are you alright?” I asked gently.
“Yes, this evening has been full of surprises,” She looked sad, her blue eyes revealing her inner turmoil.
Unable to help myself, I cupped her face with both hands. “I’m sorry, Ginger, had I known that you were really in love with Keith, I wouldn’t have asked him to come to Arus.”
“Really?” she asked softly.
“Really.”
Her eyes locked with mine. I knew she was seeing the coldness in me; I could only hope she was seeing the regret-
“Ohmp!”
She jumped so hard against me that she almost knocked me over. She buried her face against my neck and hugged me tightly. “Please, sir, don’t go back to Terra!”
I winced. She knew I was leaving. “Okay, now,” I muttered. I swept my hands up and down her back. “Please, you know I’m not good with tears.”
She pulled back and looked at me with a mixture of sadness and desperation I couldn’t understand.
“Ginger-“
“Don’t leave me,” she whispered, covering my mouth with hers; her lips moving over mine and drawing the breath from me, surprised at her boldness, yet thrilled by it as well.
My arms were so tight she could hardly breathe, but she didn’t seem to care because she was holding me just as tightly, her hands running madly over my shoulders, over my neck, into my hair as our tongues learned each other’s taste.
“I love you, Steven,” she cried when our lips parted. “And you love me.”
I closed my eyes briefly, savoring the words, and then opened them again.
The Explorer, December 31, 2305
Steven just stood there staring at me until I began to think that Newley had been wrong.
“Do you love me? If you don’t, just say-”
I never finished because his mouth was suddenly on mine and he was kissing me. He pulled me close against him, the hardness of his body igniting a blazing response on my own. I heard him moan, felt him shudder against me. His mouth turned urgent and demanding on mine, parting my lips to probe the inside even as his hands came up. One moved to my back, pulling me closer still, while the other caught my hair and tilted my head to a more comfortable angle.
When he broke the kiss, I moaned in protest and then blinked my eyes open when he said, “I love you.”
“D-do you?” I asked, smiling.
“Ginger,” he murmured, holding me off the ground, hugging me to him. “Of course I love you. Do you think I have not told you that? But I have, many times over the last six years, by trying to help you, to spare you pain, and even by my jealousy. But you refused to see it.”
“Oh, Steven, I didn’t know.”
“You’ve been driving me crazy ever since you were eighteen. By the following year I couldn’t keep my eyes off you. I was appalled at myself and half-crazy from our frequent confrontations. I knew the last thing in the world I should do was to give you a hard time in class and make you an example of so-called bad behavior.”
He sighed. “But you were so bright, and strong and caring, that I fell head over heels, in spite of how young you were. And every time you came near me I had trouble keeping my hands off. I was jealous of every teammate you dated, especially Cliff who I could have happily sent to planet Neva without supplies.”
I kept my arms tightly around him. “I’ve been a fool. I’m sorry!”
“Hush, little one. I’ve been more foolish than you.” he chuckled. “We’re two fools, the perfect recipe for a happy life together.”
Smiling, I leaned forward, watching his eyes, closing mine the moment my lips touched his. His arms held me tightly to him that I felt every dip and hollow of his strong frame. Our kiss was so long and demanding, I was breathing through him. Each stroke of his tongue had my heart pounding, my hands shaking, my entire body shuddering with pleasure.
When we finally broke apart, we were both breathless. “What are we going to do?”
He led me to the veranda and asked me to sit on the steps and wait for him. In minutes he was back with two flutes of champagne. I was outwardly calm, but nervous inside over his decision of leaving the Explorer. Taking a breath, I tried to put it from my mind for the time being. I watched Hawkins tip back his head and drink deeply.
He set aside our glasses and pulled me into his arms. I relaxed against him, enjoying his warmth, the steady throb of his heart, the tenderness of his embrace.
His lips were close to my ear when he said, “I’ll talk with Graham tomorrow. I’m sure he will understand my reason for staying.”
I saw an explosion on the horizon, and then recognized the stars and pinwheels and brightly colored bursts of joyful light.
Fireworks… it was midnight. The New Year had begun!
I turned so I could gaze up at him. The planes and angles of his face softened in the dim light. I hooked my arm around his neck and pulled, as if to bring him closer to me, and gazed into his gray eyes. My soul was bursting for this man who had given me so much. I kissed his mouth, taking my time, enjoying the way he parted his lips for me, letting me take charge.
Eventually, I left his mouth to whisper, “Happy New Year, Steven.”
“Happy New Year, Ginger. I love you.”
I sighed. “And I love you.”
THE END
Steven just stood there staring at me until I began to think that Newley had been wrong.
“Do you love me? If you don’t, just say-”
I never finished because his mouth was suddenly on mine and he was kissing me. He pulled me close against him, the hardness of his body igniting a blazing response on my own. I heard him moan, felt him shudder against me. His mouth turned urgent and demanding on mine, parting my lips to probe the inside even as his hands came up. One moved to my back, pulling me closer still, while the other caught my hair and tilted my head to a more comfortable angle.
When he broke the kiss, I moaned in protest and then blinked my eyes open when he said, “I love you.”
“D-do you?” I asked, smiling.
“Ginger,” he murmured, holding me off the ground, hugging me to him. “Of course I love you. Do you think I have not told you that? But I have, many times over the last six years, by trying to help you, to spare you pain, and even by my jealousy. But you refused to see it.”
“Oh, Steven, I didn’t know.”
“You’ve been driving me crazy ever since you were eighteen. By the following year I couldn’t keep my eyes off you. I was appalled at myself and half-crazy from our frequent confrontations. I knew the last thing in the world I should do was to give you a hard time in class and make you an example of so-called bad behavior.”
He sighed. “But you were so bright, and strong and caring, that I fell head over heels, in spite of how young you were. And every time you came near me I had trouble keeping my hands off. I was jealous of every teammate you dated, especially Cliff who I could have happily sent to planet Neva without supplies.”
I kept my arms tightly around him. “I’ve been a fool. I’m sorry!”
“Hush, little one. I’ve been more foolish than you.” he chuckled. “We’re two fools, the perfect recipe for a happy life together.”
Smiling, I leaned forward, watching his eyes, closing mine the moment my lips touched his. His arms held me tightly to him that I felt every dip and hollow of his strong frame. Our kiss was so long and demanding, I was breathing through him. Each stroke of his tongue had my heart pounding, my hands shaking, my entire body shuddering with pleasure.
When we finally broke apart, we were both breathless. “What are we going to do?”
He led me to the veranda and asked me to sit on the steps and wait for him. In minutes he was back with two flutes of champagne. I was outwardly calm, but nervous inside over his decision of leaving the Explorer. Taking a breath, I tried to put it from my mind for the time being. I watched Hawkins tip back his head and drink deeply.
He set aside our glasses and pulled me into his arms. I relaxed against him, enjoying his warmth, the steady throb of his heart, the tenderness of his embrace.
His lips were close to my ear when he said, “I’ll talk with Graham tomorrow. I’m sure he will understand my reason for staying.”
I saw an explosion on the horizon, and then recognized the stars and pinwheels and brightly colored bursts of joyful light.
Fireworks… it was midnight. The New Year had begun!
I turned so I could gaze up at him. The planes and angles of his face softened in the dim light. I hooked my arm around his neck and pulled, as if to bring him closer to me, and gazed into his gray eyes. My soul was bursting for this man who had given me so much. I kissed his mouth, taking my time, enjoying the way he parted his lips for me, letting me take charge.
Eventually, I left his mouth to whisper, “Happy New Year, Steven.”
“Happy New Year, Ginger. I love you.”
I sighed. “And I love you.”
THE END
Advisory
Warning - while the contents of this site are of an artistic nature, some of the included works (both fanart and fanfiction) have a mature theme. Those fanworks that are of a mature nature will be clearly labeled as such, and should be restricted to viewing by individuals over the age of 18. Please understand that if you view/read these mature works it is at your own risk.
Please Note
"The Lion's Keep: The Next Chapter" is the most recent version of the "The Lion's Keep",
and was originally established November 08, 1999
Disclaimers
Voltron: Defender Of The Universe, Vehicle Voltron,
Voltron The Third Dimension, Voltron Force
Voltron: Legendary Defender
and all associated characters are owned and copyrighted © by
WEP, LLC
And licensed by
DreamWorks Animation
Stories, new and original characters, etc., copyright © their respective authors/creators. Please be kind, considerate and honest and don't use original characters or reuse/repost an artist's or writer's work without their express consent. Anything you see or read here has been posted with permission from the respective author or artist.
These pages are meant for entertainment purposes only - no infringement is intended.
I can't help it... I ❤ love ❤ Voltron!