Amidst the echoes of uncertainty,
I stand with open arms and embrace the unknown.
I whisper to the wind, "I am ready!"
A melody resounds, a symphony of courage.
I spread my wings and let myself be carried by the song of life.
Alec
Alec entered the commander's office and closed the door behind him. As usual, Luke sat behind his desk, poring over a stack of documents.
"You wanted to see me," Alec said announcing himself, taking a stance - hands clasped behind his back, legs shoulder-width apart. Luke looked up and removed his reading glasses, placed them on the table, and gestured with one hand towards one of the empty chairs.
"Yes, please, have a seat," Luke invited.
Alec nodded and complied. He sat in the chair, back straight, not touching the chair's backrest. Alec almost felt like he was experiencing a déjà vu.
"Alec," the commander began, resting his elbows on the desk. Alec relaxed slightly at Luke's less formal posture. Noticing this, Luke smiled briefly before turning serious again.
"Over the years, and more recently you have proven that you can take responsibility, lead a team, and keep a cool head in difficult situations."
Joy and satisfaction glimmered in Luke's eyes, a rare and genuine expression that made Alec's heart swell with pride. "I think it's time for me to pass the torch to you."
Alec's eyebrows shot up. He had expected this conversation but not quite so soon, and certainly not today. After all, it was a big step and a lot of responsibility he would be taking on, especially since he had just celebrated his 36th birthday a few days ago.
"Wow... I mean, thank you. I, uh... forgive me for asking, but why now?" he asked, feeling a bit taken aback. Unconsciously, he kneaded the palm of his right hand. Luke leaned back in his chair, studying Alec thoughtfully before responding.
"I've held this position for about fifteen years now. I think it's time for a change. I'll be turning 70 next year, and I just feel that I'm not up to the stress of this job anymore. Plus, I'd like to enjoy the next chapter of my life without the burdensome responsibility. Especially now that I have two charming grandchildren."
The last sentence brought a smile to Alec's face. He nodded his head slowly. Seventy years old. Alec turned the number over in his mind. He understood Luke's desire for a life with less responsibility, but could he truly fill the shoes of someone who had done so much for the community? Was he really ready to take on this monumental task?
Alec took a moment to process Luke's words. He deeply respected Luke, and the idea of stepping into his shoes already felt like a tremendous honor. However, the burden of responsibility weighed heavily on him, and the understanding that Luke saw these qualities in him brought a mix of pride and uncertainty.
"I appreciate your trust, Luke. It's just... a big responsibility, and I want to make sure I can handle it," he said.
Luke nodded understandingly.
"I have no doubt that you can, Alec. You have the necessary qualities. The community here needs someone like you, someone who not only fulfills tasks but also looks out for the people."
Alec felt a slight warmth rise in his cheeks at Luke's last words.
"What about my team? Who will take over the leadership?" he asked.
Luke gave him another smile.
"I leave that decision to you, Captain. I trust you to make the right call. You know them better than anyone."
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Love me in the Shadows of Our Memories (🇬🇧)
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