"Buzz?"
The Ranger looked up. "Yes?"
"I said, here's your cosmic chilly." Sally handed a bow to him.
"Oh, thanks." said Buzz, embarrassed that he hadn't been paying attention.
Sally smiled and left. Buzz watched her slim, elegant form as she walked away. Why couldn't settle for someone like her? Someone who was always nice, who always knew the right thing to say. Why was he so hung up over Ozma?
Several hours ago, he'd visited Karn to bring supplies to the isolated scientist. As usual, he had high hopes of impressing her. And as usual, she'd treated him as coldly as ever. Why did he even bother?
Was it her looks?
No, he shook his head. She was certainly attractive, but so were women like Sally and Bonnie Lepton and even Mira.
So what was it then?
Her personality?
Hardly. She was colder than a Shragorakian winter.
Perhaps... perhaps it was the challenge involved. As the pride of Star Command, he could probably get a date with just about any woman in the quadrant. Except Ozma. With her, he had to prove himself. He had to show that her that he was worthy of her love. And that made their relationship a lot more interesting.
Perhaps it was also because in a way he understood her. Sure, he would never understand her fascination with vicious, deadly animals, but he understood her need to protect them. To defend them against hostile forces. It mirrored his own desire to protect the galaxy.
He respected her for her dedication. He admired her for her courage.
Despite all her faults, he loved her. And one day, he'd win her over - because a Ranger never gives up.
Author's note: I'm probably one of the only people out there who actually likes Ozma, and thinks she and Buzz might work together.