We're in Space ... So What?

Chapter 44: The Light Outside

After a day or two, Jamie lies in his bunk, acutely aware of the laughter and chatter coming from outside his door. He can hear Judah's booming voice and Angelia's lighter, playful tones mixing with the soft sounds of waves crashing against the shore. Ryan is nearby, tinkering with something, the clinks and clatters of tools breaking through the otherwise pleasant ambiance. The contrast between their joy and his own isolation weighs heavily on him.

"Come on, Jamie! You're missing out!" Judah calls, his voice full of exuberance. Jamie clenches his jaw, not ready to face the world yet.

A few moments later, Alex knocks gently on the door, peeking in with a big grin. "Hey, Jamie! Check this out!" He holds up a bright, bioluminescent shell, its colors shifting in the light. "I found this by the beach! Can you believe it?"

Jamie shifts in his bunk, glancing at the shell with reluctant interest. "Looks... cool," he mutters, trying to sound enthusiastic.

"It's amazing!" Alex plops down on the edge of the bunk. "Everything here is so vibrant and alive. You should really see it! The sun here feels like nothing I've ever experienced. It's this warm, glowing light that wraps around you like a blanket."

He leans in closer, eyes sparkling. "You know how Ryan's planet has that soft, normal white sun? This one is different—it's almost golden, and it makes everything shimmer. When it hits your skin, it feels like it's filling you with energy. You'd love it!"

Jamie can't help but smile a little at Alex's excitement. "Yeah? What else?"

Alex launches into a detailed description of the beach, the way the sand feels underfoot, and how the sun sets in a cascade of colors over the water. "It's like a painting, Jamie. You'd really enjoy it. I don't think I've ever felt anything so rejuvenating."

Jamie feels a flicker of curiosity but shakes his head. "I don't know, Alex. I'm... not really ready to meet the others yet."

"Come on, man. You don't have to do much. Just sit with us. We miss you out there." Alex's voice softens, genuine concern evident in his tone.

After a moment of silence, Jamie exhales, finally letting down some of his walls. "Is Angelia okay?"

"She's great! She keeps joking about how you saved her life, and now she feels like she owes you one. She can't wait to thank you properly." Alex's smile is infectious, and Jamie finds himself wanting to be part of that warmth.

"Maybe tomorrow," Jamie says, though he knows he might stay in his room for another day or two, just to gather himself. He can hear the crew enjoying the island, and part of him wants to join, but the thought feels overwhelming.

"Alright, just take your time," Alex replies, sensing Jamie's hesitation. "But don't stay cooped up forever. We'll be here when you're ready."

As Alex leaves, Jamie leans back against his bunk, listening to the sounds of laughter and life outside. He knows the ship will be leaving soon, and maybe then he'll find the strength to step out and reconnect with his crew, when he feels ready to embrace the world again.