CHAPTER 3
"So, let me get this straight. You want to take it to try to go back to the past because of some woman you met?" Dylan was staring at Harper.
"Uh--basically--yeah. Look, forget it, Dylan.
Andromeda said you'd understand but, I guess she was wrong." He got up and started to leave.
"I never said I didn't understand", Dylan said quietly.
Harper froze, then turned back. "You do?"
"Sit down, Mister Harper and tell me about this Kris Munroe you met."
"She's so cool. She's beautiful and blonde and the quintessential ancient California girl. But, she's not stupid. She's incredibly smart and so kind. I mean, she took me in and helped me over the objections of everyone in her life. And she knew nothing about me because, of course, I couldn't say anything.
How amazing is that?"
Dylan smiled at the young engineer. "Very.
Well, Harper, I certainly have nothing against your trying. It certainly worked last time.
But, if you don't come back, I'd miss you. But, I'll let you go, anyway."
"Really?"
"You have to tell the whole crew, though. They deserve to know why. Especially if you never come back."
"Boss, I'm sure I'll--."
"Don't say anything, Harper. You never know.
And honesty is called for in this situation. So, go and tell them."
So, the crew was gathered on Command and Harper told the whole story. "And that's basically it. I want to try to find Kris again, if I can. Uh--Dylan said I had to tell you."
Rev was the first to speak. "Master Harper, there are no accidents. Everything happens for a reason. The Divine guided you on your trip to the past. The Divine will guide you again. I wish you well." He bowed.
"Gee, thanks, Rev."
"There is no guarantee you will be able to find her again. Many things may have happened. The risks are pointless." Tyr was blunt, as usual. "But, if you must do this, then you must. I too, wish you the best."
"Thanks, Tyr."
Beka shook her head. "This is crazy. The things you'll do to meet women." Then she grinned. "Except you already met this one. You'll do anything to score, won't you? I hope this Kris realizes how lucky she is. I only hope she's worthy of you."
Harper flashed her a big smile. "Trust me boss she is. She's unforgettable and special.
Kind of reminds me of you."
Then Rommie spoke. "Against my better judgement, I helped you the first time. However, it all worked out. I'm glad for you.
I hope you find what you're looking for."
"Oh, Rom-Doll, that's so sweet."
Then Trance's turn came. "Harper, I'm glad you finally opened up to us. This trip will be the most important of your life. Take care of yourself and Kris."
"Uh--Trance--care to explain that statement?"
The purple pixie with the regrown tail shook her head. "Sorry, I can't."
"How did I know you were going to say that?" He turned to Dylan. "Thank you, Dylan, for understanding."
Dylan waved his hand. "No problem, Harper. Now go." Harper turned on the device and disappeared.
