One Earth

While the others went to bed, played a last simulation game in the VR area or ate some snacks, I hid in a corner by the window.

"Thank you," I whispered to her, so that no one else could hear me. "Thank you for doing your best, for making every day a new adventure, for giving me a place to feel alive and home."

My fingers touched the thick glass. I counted.

Three.

Two.

One.

Then the ship passed the Earth on its way through space – as once every year.

"Thank you," I repeated. "And sorry that we acted too late."