Helmer willed the numbers on the clock by the departure board to move backwards. They didn't.
He didn't want to say goodbye to his girls, not for a few months, or even minutes.
They'd be fine with Gaignun and Rubedo, they were all practically siblings—but Shelley and Mary were so young, just fourteen and twelve, respectively.
The shuttle for the Foundation was here.
"Now I want you to call lots," Helmer said, bending down to kiss both foreheads.
"We will!" Mary promised. "Love you, Helmer!"
"Love you!" Shelley echoed. They started for the hatch.
Helmer smiled.
"Love you girls."
