The Loneliest Girl in the Universe

I've been alone on this spaceship since my parents died. The last time I hugged someone, smelt their shampoo, or even just spoke to them face to face, was 25 February 2062. Five years ago.

Right now I'm officially further away from any other human being than anyone else has been since the evolution of the species. I'm pretty sure I've forgotten what other people feel like.

When I dream, I dream in screens. A line of text, a voice in my ear. Nothing real.

The things people take for granted, like seeing the sky, walking on soil, feeling the wind on your skin – well, I've never experienced any of that. I was born on The Infinity. I've only ever known its clean white walls; its sterilized atmosphere and artificial gravity; its grey floors, curving around the ship's hull. I circle the same small space over and over every day, and nothing changes and nothing is different.

I know I sound ungrateful to be here. But I didn't choose this life. Just because my parents were clever and multitalented enough to be picked to run The Infinity doesn't mean I'm anything special. I'm nothing like they were.

I should feel proud that my parents were chosen to run this mission. I should be proud to be the first human to land on a planet and create a new civilization. I get to carve out a new home for humanity among the stars.

But some days it's hard to remember the exciting parts. I get stuck in the memories. It's hard to focus on the future when the past is so distracting.

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