The Stars Between Us by Tempest S. L

Author:Tempest, S. L.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: FlamingoWings Publishing
Published: 2024-11-29T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 12

Mission gone wrong

Lyra moved through the narrow hallways, her gaze flicking over the bustling crew. There was a certain energy in the air—tense, electric—but not the kind that came from just any mission. They were getting closer to the asteroid now, the unstable core of the rogue faction’s operation. She couldn’t shake the feeling that everything was about to change. Her mind kept drifting back to that moment with Cassia, that kiss, that brush of warmth between them.

They had a job to do, but the way Cassia’s smile lingered in her thoughts made it harder to focus.

Cassia’s voice pulled her out of her reverie. “You’re quiet today. Something on your mind, Novak?”

Lyra blinked, surprised that Cassia had noticed. She forced a lighthearted chuckle, though her mind was still tangled. “Nothing, just... thinking about the mission. Big stuff coming up, you know?”

Cassia raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. “Uh-huh. That’s why you’re staring off into space, huh?”

Lyra could feel her heart race at the playful teasing. She could feel the pull between them more clearly now, like a thread that tied her to Cassia. She shook her head, brushing off the distraction as best as she could. “Right, no time for anything else. Just have to stay focused.”

But even in the crowded atmosphere of the Truthful faction's ship, the space between her and Cassia felt different now. It wasn’t the usual camaraderie or the simple professional respect—they were more than that now, after what had happened. And it was impossible to ignore the electric charge that hummed every time they were close.

As they walked through the ship's corridors, Lyra could feel Cassia’s presence beside her like a heat that refused to dissipate. Each casual brush of Cassia’s arm against hers made her pulse quicken. No, this wasn’t just about the mission anymore. It wasn’t just about keeping their heads down and doing their jobs. Things had shifted.

Cassia’s grin was sharper this time, a glint of something mischievous in her eyes. “You know, if you’re having trouble staying focused, I can think of a few ways to help you unwind... just a suggestion.”

Lyra’s stomach fluttered, and she had to turn her attention away quickly. “Focus, Cassia. The mission,” she muttered, though it came out with less conviction than she intended.

Cassia didn’t press the issue, but there was a knowing look in her eyes. “Right. But I know you, Novak. You think you can fool me with all this ‘mission’ talk, but I know when something’s distracting you.”

Lyra swallowed hard, feeling her face flush slightly. She had to get herself back in gear. This was their time to act, to be smart, to figure out the asteroid, not let the personal stuff get in the way. But as they continued down the ship’s hallways, Lyra couldn’t help but wonder if that was even possible anymore.

***

The ship’s preparation bay was a hive of activity. Crew members moved in and out of rooms, adjusting equipment, double-checking systems, and securing every detail for the upcoming space expedition.

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