The Man That Watched It Go [A Short Story]

Transmission: USLS TO ISS

TRANSMISSION LOGS: CHARLES TO JAKE
SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2089
USLS TO ISS
DAYS SINCE ARRIVAL: 284
START TIME: 6:56 PM (EST TIME) -DURATION: 1HR 14 MINS-

Charles: Hey.

Jake: What's up man?

Charles: I don't know.

Jake: Neither do I, partner. That's why I'm asking you.

Charles: Oh you're a smart one.

Jake: Weird, that's exactly what my bullies told me back in high school.

Charles: Haha.

Jake: Seriously though, what's on your mind?

Charles: The asteroid man. I can't stop thinking about it.

Jake: It's scary, right?

Charles: You know how they told us to not let fear overcome us?

Jake: Yeah?

Charles: Well, is this an exception?

Jake: I'd think so.

Charles: I'm slowly starting to freak out man.

Jake: Why didn't you go back home?

Charles: You know why.

Jake: Right.

Charles: I don't know. She hasn't sent me anything in months.

Jake: I'm sorry, man. She'll send you something soon. Don't worry.

Charles: She doesn't know the world's ending, Jake. If she hasn't sent me anything for the past few months, she won't send me anything in our last week.

Jake: Sorry. Just trying to spark some hope in this hopeless situation.

Charles: I'm sorry. I'm just pissed.

Jake: So am I.

Charles: Why?

Jake: Because I haven't hit it off with Rachel, that's why.

Charles: Dude.

Jake: But you know what, I think I have a chance now. She hasn't stopped crying since we found out, and if I work my magic and calm her down, I may be the only man to get laid in space.

Charles: You're ridiculous man.

Jake: I'm gonna go see if I have a shot with her. Gotta make my last few days the best.

Charles: Talk to you later then man.

Jake: Take care.