Episode 9. Captain on the Bridge

After crossing the length of the ship, we stop in front of the elevator leading to the command bridge. A soft chime echoes through the corridor before the doors slide open.

I press the button for the top deck. The doors close behind us, and the elevator begins its ascent.

During the ride, silence settles between us. Angie slips her hand into mine, our fingers intertwining as naturally as breathing. It's a ritual I both love and hate.

I hate it because every instinct tells me to pull her into my arms.

I love it because it reminds me that, no matter what happens next, I'm not facing it alone.

Another chime announces our arrival.

The doors glide open onto the bridge.

A wide circular room stretches out before us, lined with consoles and displays. Beeps, whistles and quiet voices blend into a familiar symphony—the unmistakable sound of a ship ready for duty.

At the front, two helm stations face the main viewscreen. At the center sits the captain's chair.

My chair.

From there, I can take in every station with a single glance.

Angie steps onto the bridge beside me and instantly straightens into a formal stance.

I never tire of that instant when the officers present stand and snap to attention.

At that moment, the elevator doors open. My gaze immediately turns in that direction.

Lieutenant Savea enters.

Every Monday, it's the same story. We're never on time. I was supposed to report to the admiral at nine, and it's almost eleven already.

I'll probably get another one of his endless lectures, but I don't really care. What matters is that we're operational.

Meanwhile, Angie goes from officer to officer, handing out those blasted reports that keep wasting our precious time.