Onward With Love…

Chapter Thirty-Four

By Yuki Wildstar


EDF Battleship Argo

Quarters of the XO

“So, Derek looks like we’re stuck here together for a while.” Julie said looking out into the dark skies of space.

“Yeah, well I don’t think that Namir or Nova would like that.”

“Tell me about it, it’s not like we planned it. I’m sure that they both will understand. I know that you love Nova and I love Namir very much. I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize it. We’ve come such a long way don’t you think?” she asked him.

Iwanttoengravethiswarinmymemory-Dor[1].jpg“We sure have, gosh has it been that many years since we saw each other before our little war.”

“I’m sorry Derek that I put you and Nova through all that, I deserve everything that I get. If the shoe was on the other foot I don’t think that I could ever forgive me. Nova’s a special person and I'm so glad that you found someone that is going to make you happy. You deserved someone like that after all the crap I put you through.”

“We were so young back then, although I did like you very much and I would have stopped the world for you. We made a lot of mistakes back then.”

“More me then you Derek, I hurt you so much. I was such a bitch back then.”

Derek laughed at her “Yeah, you sure were.”

“Gee thanks” she rolled her eyes at him. “You weren’t supposed to agree.”

“Hey I call it as I see it.”

“Oh you,” she punched him on his arm as he laughed at her.

“Hey that’s striking a superior officer, I’ll have to make a report.” he laughed making her laugh with him.

“Why couldn’t we be like this when we were dating?” She asked.

51725[1].jpg“We were young and high strung. Back then we were more into getting somewhere fast and didn’t care how we got there.”

“Well that’s more me then you Derek and you know that. Whatever happened to those two young people, what really happened to them?” She said remembering all that they went through when dating back in 2197.

 

 

 

October 21, 2197

 

“I’m sorry I didn’t look where I was going,” Julie said as she bent down to pick up her books.

“That’s alright I should have seen you coming. I see that you’re studying to be a pilot.” Wildstar asked as he helped her with her things

“Yeah, it’s something I’ve been dabbing at and you?” she asked intrigued of this handsome man in front of her. She was dating another cadet but was growing weary of him. ‘Time to move on’ she thought to herself.

“I’m sorry, I’m Cadet Ensign Derek Wildstar,” he stuck out his hand for her to shake. ‘She’s very pretty, those dark brown eyes, they seem so deep like if she was reading your mind’ he thought.

“Cadet Ensign Juliet Tolbert, nice to meet you.” she shook his hand back.

“So what other class are you taking?”

“Psychics of course and leadership, Someday I’m hoping to command a ship,” she said and thought to herself ‘or at least until I find someone that has enough money to take care of me.’

“Really! So am I. Who do you have for teachers?”

“Commander Jetson, Matsumoto, and Commander Fujita.”

“Oh he’s tough, I had him last year and my brother Alex had him a few years ago. Don’t get discouraged with him he can be nice if you just ask a lot of questions. He loves’ to talk, so the more questions you ask the more he likes you.” He said smiling at her hoping to get her number.

Julie like the young man in front of her, he had a heart melting smile and his eyes danced when he spoke. “Thank you, I’ll keep that in mind.” ‘Though I already have the A+ I need for the year, thanks to our one night stand together.’

“If you ever need help in Physics let me know. I pretty much know what he will give on the exam at the end of the year.” Derek said.

“I just might take you up on that Cadet Ensign Derek Wildstar.” Julie said giving him a big smile.

“Hey if you’re interested some of the other cadets are heading out to O’Mally’s later. If you like to drop by and let off some steam.”

“I’d like that very much, what time?”

“About 1630?”

“Okay, that would be great. I guess I’ll meet you there then?”

“Great, see you then.” He winked at her and made his way to class.

 

 

 

O’Mally’s Bar and Grill

1643 hours

 

004 - Copy.jpg“Hey Wildstar why do keep looking at the door?” Venture asked his friend.

“That girl I met in the hall way, she said she was coming.”

“Wildstar, she may never even come. Forget her, she probably with some upper class mate. Anyway there are a couple of hot cuties over there looking our way, let’s go meet them?” Venture got up and began to grab him by the arm. “Come on Wildstar, they look like they put out easily.”

“Come on Venture, I really want to see if she shows, just a few more minutes.”

“Well you wait. I’ll get them warmed up just in case she doesn’t show.” Venture left him and walked over to the two young girl cadets waiting to speak to them.

Wildstar sat at the table rubbing his finger around the rim of the beer glass as he watched Venture and some other guy talking to the girls at the bar. Ready to get up and walk over to them he felt a hand on his shoulder.

“Hiya Cadet Ensign Derek Wildstar.” He smiled when he turned to see Julie standing there.

“Whoosh, I thought you weren’t coming.” Derek said relieved that she was there.

“Sorry I had to take care of something with my grades, but I’m here, what are you having?” she said sitting down as he pulled the chair out for her. “Thank you, my aren’t you a gentleman.”

He smiled at her and asked, “What would you like to drink?”

“Are you buying?” Julies purred.

“Of course I ask you here, it’s only fair.”

“Well then, I’ll have a synthetic rum and coke.” Julie said looking into his eyes.

“So what’s up with your grades?”

“Oh nothing now, it’s been straightened out,” She said as she thought about what she and her professor did less than an hour ago. She knew that she was getting a B+ but she need an A+ to get into flight school.

“So tell me about yourself Ms. Tolbert.”

“What would you like to know Cadet Ensign Derek Wildstar?”

He grinned at her response and said.“It’s just Derek. Tell me do you have family?”

“No, it was my mother and me for a while but she passed a few years back.”

“I’m sorry, Planet bombs?”

“No she died of natural causes, though she was very young, and she was very weak. I;d rather not talk anymore about it” She said turning away.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to pry,” Wildstar’s smiled faded quickly from his face.

“It’s alright it’s just part a my life that I never want to remember, and how about you Derek, any family?”

“I have a brother, you’ve probably heard of him Alexander Wildstar he’s the captain of the Pegasus.”

“Alex Wildstar, who hasn’t heard of him.” Julie licked her lips, ‘well if it doesn’t work out with him I have an easy way of meeting the famous Alex Wildstar’ “Parents?”

“My mother and father were killed when the planet bombs hit Great Island. It’s still a sore spot to talk about, so I’d also rather not,” Wildstar said also looking away from her as tears began to build up in his eyes.

“I’m sorry Derek, I didn’t mean to pry either,” she place her hand on his and waited until he looked at her. “I guess we both have something in common.” She said and smile as he turned to face her.

“Looks like we do, so are you dating anyone special?” he asked hoping that he would get the answer he wanted to hear.

“Actually, I am.” she said as Wildstar’s smile left his face. “But it’s not working out with us and he doesn’t know it yet but I will be cutting him loose very soon.”

“Oh really,” Wildstar face lit up. “Well that’s something interesting to hear. What are you doing tomorrow night than?”

“Why Cadet Ensign Wildstar… are you asking me out on a date?” Julie laughed as she hit him on the shoulder.

“I guess I am, so are you free?”

“I’ll have to check my calendar,” she said as she pulled out her mini calendar and glanced through it. “Hmm, looks like I am. I can pencil you in right after I tell Alfred that’s it’s over.”

Wildstar laughed out loud at what she said and then lean forward to her. “May I?” he asked as she nodded and lean inward toward him also. His kiss was gentle on her lips. She felt his tongue grazed along her lips and then pulled away.

“Wildstar, I see she made it. So you didn’t get stood up again.” Venture said as he slapped him on the back.

“Yeah, Mark Venture this is Julie Tolbert, Julie, this is my best friend Mark.” Derek introduce them.

“How do you do? Nice to meet you.” Mark Said as he shook her hand. “My friend said you were pretty I thought he was exaggerating, you’re not pretty your gorgeous.”

“Thank you, you’re not so bad looking yourself Venture,” She winked at him. ‘Hmmm very cute, this just might be fun.’

“Hey I saw her first,” Wildstar laughed at the two.

“Well, I’ll leave you two alone. I have a date with those two anyway. See you later Wildstar.” Mark said looking over to the two female cadets.

“Okay Venture I see you in class,” he waved at his friend.

Julie and Derek talk late into the night. “Wow I didn’t think we would close the place down. Gosh what time is it?” Wildstar looked at his watch “Oh it’s almost 2 a.m. I have a test in the morning. We better go, do you have a ride?”

“No I walked here,” Julie replied.

Wildstar grinned “Would you like a ride?”

“Sure”

“Where are you staying at?”

“Actually I have my own place a few blocks away. I hate bunking with other women I can never get any privacy.”

“Cool, I thought we weren’t allowed to live out in town. How did you manage to get that privilege?”

“I just put in a request and explain that I had an elderly mother that needed my help.” She giggled. But the truth was her uncle set it up for her.

“Neat, I never thought about that.” Wildstar put his arm out and said “can I walk you home Ms. Tolbert.” Sliding her arm through his she leaned on his shoulder as he walked her home. They talk a little more until they came to her apartment building. Derek thought it was very ritzy and expensive he turn to her and said, “This is your place, how can you afford it on our salary?”

“My mom left me some money.” she lied, knowing her uncle Thomas got it for her and she had many man that supported her with her needs. “Would you like to come up?” She asked him.

“Um I really shouldn’t, I have a test in the morning and it’s pretty late.” He shied away ‘I don’t want to make this a one night stand. If I sleep with her now she’ll think that’s all I want.’

“Are you sure Derek?” Julie wasn’t sure why he was hesitating. Most men wouldn’t even give it a second thought.

“Naw, I better get back to the barracks I’ll see you tomorrow night. Pick you up around 1700?”

“Sure Derek,” she smiled at how much he was acting like a gentleman. Something most of the men she dated lacked. He lean forward and gave her a kiss on the lips as she threw her arms around him and drew him close to her. She could feel him getting excited and he pulled away quickly.

“Goodnight Julie, I’ll see you tomorrow.” Wildstar felt flush from his excitement.

 

Next day

 

Wildstar Aced his test with flying colors, he was floating on air the whole morning. He was meeting his brother Alex for lunch and couldn’t wait to tell him about Julie. They met up in the Officers Chow hall and Alex sat there waiting for him to come.

“You’re late,” Alex said joking with him.

cafe[1] - Copy.jpg“No, you’re early,” Derek joked back a game that they always played with each other.

“Good to see you little bro, what have you been up too?”

“Well I just took my pilots’ written exam and simulated flight today.” Derek said with excitement.

“And?”

“Aced it!”

“That’s great. I knew you could do it. So next semester you’ll actually be in a fighter!” Alex said proud at his baby brother.

“Yup, and that’s not all. I met a girl.” He couldn’t help but to smile.

“You have, what’s her name?”

“Cadet Ensign Julie Tolbert, she’s pretty much taking all the courses I’m taking.” He beamed.

“Julie Tolbert, the name sounds familiar, I can’t remember from where but I know I heard it before.”

Derek looked at his brother intrigue, does he know her. Did she date him, something started to ring bells in his head and he had to ask “Did you and she date?”

“No, I pretty much remember everyone I been with and Julie Tolbert was not one of them.” Alex gave Derek a smile to reassure him. “So tell me about this cadet Tolbert.”

“Well she about 5ft 4 with dark brown hair and the darkest brown eyes I have ever seen.” He went on to tell him what they talked about all night and Alex sat there and listened to every word.

“So my little brother is in love.” Alex shook his hair and joked.

“Don’t do that, you know I hate when you do that, I’m not a little kid anymore,” Derek try to say whining in the processes.

“You’ll always be my little bro, but you are growing up to be a man. If mom and dad could see you now they would be so proud.” Alex said making his brother blush with embarrassment.

“Oh stop, Alex do you miss them?” Derek asked getting misty eye about his parents.

“Of course everyday just because their gone doesn’t mean we should forget about them.”

Derek looked at his brother and decided to change the subject “So have you seen any action?”

“Ha-ha, changing the subject are you little bro. Okay I’ll go with it, yeah I’ve seen a little but nothing major. I’m sure that there will be plenty when you graduate. I promise I won’t take it all away from you and Venture. By the way how is Venture I thought that he would be joining us.”

“He took off last night with two chicks and no one’s seen him since.” Derek grinned

“You didn’t go with him?”

“I was meeting Julie.”

“A little advice to my little bro, don’t get too serious with someone now. You have to concentrate on your studies and graduate.” Alex said.

“Oh come on Alex, I know my studies are first.”

“Good, I just want you to stay focused,” Alex wasn’t sure why but something about the name Julie Tolbert kept ringing bells in his head. ‘What is it about that name that keeps nagging at me?’

“I will Alex,” Derek said thru the side of his mouth feeling that he was starting to act like too much of a big brother.

“Well, I’m sure that you have two more classes today, how about dinner tonight. I have leave until tomorrow, figured I spend as much time with my little bro.”

“Uh, um, I have a date.” He looked down at his napkin that he was playing with.

“Bring her along; I would like to meet the woman that’s making my little brother smile.” Alex said.

“I don’t know she may not be ready to meet my family.”

“Oh come on I promise I won’t give her the third degree.” Alex said crossing his heart “Honestly, I promise.”

“Alright, I’m picking her up at 1700, where should we meet you?”

“How about that little Italian restaurant that they just opened at the end of Fuji Ave I hear it’s really good. I believe it’s called Andrea’s or something.”

“I know the place. We’ll meet you there around 1730.” Derek said as they both stood up shook hands and gave each other a hug.

“See you later bro,” Alex said as they went their separate ways.

1714 Hours

Julie Tolbert’s apartment

“Hello, come on in. I’ll be ready in a minute.” Julie threw open the door and ran into the bedroom. Derek stood in the hall way and looked around. He couldn’t believe her apartment, she had expensive taste. It was luxurious with greens and tan colors reds and gold thrown in the mix. A picture of herself stood over the mantle. Derek walked into the room and put his jacket over a chair and then sat down. She emerged from the bedroom 20 minutes later wearing a simple blue dress that fell just in the middle of her thigh. Her hair was up and he thought her makeup was a little too much but okay.

“You look great Julie,” Derek said as he stood up.

“Thank you, so where are we going?” She asked as she grabbed a jacket out of the closet that matched her dress. Her shoeswere a shade of silverthat  matched her clutch purse and stood well with the dress.

“That new place called Andrea’s.”

“Italian, nice, so could you help me?” Julie handed him her jacket and turned around as he helped her put it on. They both jumped into the car and drove to the restaurant. Derek got out of the car and walked around and opened the door for her. They walked to the door and then he turned to Julie and said, “Uh Julie, I forgot to tell you, my brother is having dinner with us.” He said quickly.

“Derek, I don’t think I’m ready to meet your brother, why didn’t you tell me sooner?” she said annoyed.

“I’m sorry, it’s just that he is in town for the night and he wanted to spend time with me. Come on you both will hit it off I just know it. I think he might just steal you away from me, not that he would. Please let’s just have a good time, I promise if you feel uncomfortable I’ll take you home.”

Julie signed and then gave him a smile “Fine, after all he is only here for the night and you don’t know when you’ll see him again. Come on let’s meet your famous brother,” Julie grabbed his arm and then walked into the restaurant.

The maitre’ d asked if they had reservations and Derek told him that he was meeting someone and gave him the name.

“Ah Commander Wildstar yes he’s at the table now, come this way.” he told them and then led them to the table. They watched as Alex stood up and took Derek hand and shook it once again, giving him a hug.

He then stared at Julie and smiled “So you’re the young lady that has captured my brother attention. Hello, I’m Alex,” he said as he shook her hand.

“Hello.” She said as Derek held out her chair for her to sit. Alex watched his little brother and then turned his attention to Julie. The name kept ringing in his head all the way back to his room and he mentioned it to his roommate. What his roommate told him in return made him worry about his little brother. They made idle chat with one another and ordered dinner. Derek and Alex talked about school while Julie listened to them talk about the teachers. She sat quietly as they went into their childhood, Alex making fun of his brother about many things. Finally Derek excused himself leaving Alex and Julie alone. As he walked towards the men room he noticed a pretty girl with brown hair and she seemed to be arguing with whom he believed her parents.

“Nova sit down, you’re making a scene!” Her mother snapped under her breath.

“Oh mother you haven’t seen anything yet. Dad you have to stop her from setting me up with these losers. I made my choice and right now my studies take priority over anything. If I don’t past my medical boards I can’t join the EDF.” He heard her say as he walked to the men’s room.

“I’m sorry Julie, I didn’t mean to monopolize your date with my brother, it’s just I don’t get to see him much and I’m sure had I not twisted his arm, he would have pick you over me anytime.”

“It’s alright Commander, if it makes Derek happy then it’s alright with me.” Julie said.

“Julie its Alex, you’re not in uniform and we are just having dinner. So no need for formality, now tell me what are your intention with my brother?”

“Excuse me?” Julie looked confused.

“Julie, I’m not one to beat around the bush. I heard the rumors about you and I want to know what you want with my kid brother?” Alex said with a stern face.

The color form Julie’s face drain “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she said in a low voice.

“I’m not here to judge you Julie, what you did in your past is your business. But that’s my kid brother and I love him very much. I don’t want to see him hurt, do I make myself clear?” he lean forward and looked into her eyes to make sure she understood.

“We barely know each other, your brother has been a total gentleman and I . . .” she tried to say.

“I know he is a gentleman, I wouldn’t expect anything less of him. I just want him to stay focus on his studies, when we lost our parents I promise that I would not let anything or anyone else hurt him. So please make sure that . . . .” he was cut short when he saw her look in the direction of the men’s room. He turned to see Derek come towards them than turned to Julie and said. “This stays between us, understood?”

She nodded and then put a smile on her face, like so many other times. “Well were you two playing nice?” Derek asked playfully.

“We were just having a nice conversation about school and her studies. She’s a nice girl Derek. We should do this again when I’m back in town. Would you two like another drink?” Alex said staring more at Julie.

“No thank you, Derek it’s late, we should be going.” She wanted to get out of there as fast as possible.

“Yeah, I don’t like to drink and drive. Well Alex, when do you think you’ll be back in town?”

“Don’t know little brother, this war with the Gamilons it just seems like I’m always getting call out at the last minute. But I’ll keep in touch. Julie it was nice meeting you, take good care of him.” He said giving her a stare that meant everything he said to her earlier.

“Yes sir,” was all she could say which made him laugh.

“See you around, Derek make sure you keep up on your studies.”

“I will,” they shook hands and hug, walk out of the restaurant and waited for the valet to get their cars. Alex’s car came first and he jumped in and drove off. Derek and Julie stood outside of the restaurant waiting for his car to come around. He wrapped his arm around her and kissed her on the cheek.

“So?”

“He’s nice Derek, your brother loves you.” She said in a low voice.

“Is anything wrong, did he say anything to you?” Derek looked at her concerned.

“No, no I guess I’m a little tired that’s all, it’s the wine.” She force a smile, she dealt with family before and could tell that he was a very protective brother. Something she always wanted in a family but never had. She had to be extra careful with him. He was sweet and caring. ‘But still this could fun.’ she thought to herself.

“Come on I’ll take you home,” Derek said as his car pulled up and he opened the door to let her in. He parked the car and walked her upstairs to her apartment.

“Thank you Derek I had a lovely time,” Julie said as she opened her door then turned to face him.

“Me too Julie, I hope that we can do this again?” he said hopeful.

Julie smiled and ran her hand over his face. Derek lean forward as so did she so they can kiss. She wrapped her arms around his neck and guided him into the apartment, Derek took off his jacket as he kissed her and then Julie helped him with his shirt. She led him into her room and he sat on the bed as Julie went into her closet and took off her clothes. Derek watched as she walked out naked and admired her body.

“Wow, nice.” He said shaking slightly. He’s been with two other women before her and nothing more. They were both one night stands that Venture hooked him up with and he wasn’t sure exactly what he was doing. She did things to him that night that he never knew a woman would know. He couldn’t believe that she was this great in bed and never question her. He rather had not known how many men she’s been with, it didn’t matter to him. She was with him now and that’s all that mattered to him.

April 15, 2198

056[1].jpgMonths passed by and Derek had move his things into her apartment at her request. She thought that she was starting to really like him, but a few weeks past when she began to get bored with him like so many others in her past. She still had her indiscretions and tried to keep them discreet. But slowly Derek began to hear the rumors from his classmates. Mostly from Venture, he confronted him one day and brought one of the men that claim to have slept with her a few days earlier. Derek almost punched him in the face, but Venture held him back. He told him how she came on to him and took him into a storage closet and they did it there. He also told him that she slept with all her male professors and that’s how she got A’s in her classes. Derek just cursed him out and walked away from both Venture and him. Then a few weeks after his graduation and before his orders to moon station Venture approach him again on the subject.

“Mark we had this conversation before,” Derek said annoyed with his friend. He expected this from his brother but not his friend.

“Look if Alex was here he’d tell you the same. I heard stories about her, and some of the things that are recent. Derek she’s a tramp and you can’t see it.”

“Don’t say that about the woman I love, I’m asking her to marry me,” He blurted out.

“What, are you serious? She’s having an affair with some pilot name Hartcliffe for god sake!”

“Stay out of this Venture.  I don’t get into your love life so stay out of mine. She would never lie to me she says that she loves me and that’s that.”

“Derek, just one question, when was the last time you two slept together?”

“That’s none of your damn business, now I have to go and set up the house for the big proposal!” he snapped at his friend.

“Derek you can’t,”

“You’re just jealous, you never did like her. She told me how you came onto her and tried to get her to leave me. She told me everything, at first I didn’t believe it, but lately it seems to me that she just might be right.”

“Derek, you know I would never do that to you, if anything she came on to me six weeks after you and her got together. She came to my room and wanted to talk about the argument you and she had over that one professor. The next thing I knew she was kissing me and trying to take my clothes off.”

“YOU LIAR!” Derek yelled at him.

“Wildstar it’s true, I never told you because I knew you liked her. But now I think you’re making a mistake. I didn’t want the rumors to be true, but they are. She’s been sleeping around with not only her professors but others. I’ve talked to some guys that said they have been with her in the time you two were together.”

Wildstar tighten his hands into fist and wanted so much to hit his friend for saying this to him. In the back of his mind he heard the rumors too, but he chose to take Julie’s side first. “I have to go, I’ll talk with you later,” he said and left his friend standing in the middle of the bar.

Derek drove to their apartment and his mind was racing at what his friend said to him. The question that stood out most was when was the last time they slept together? ‘When was the last time we slept together, gosh it’s been too long, I’ve been so wrapped up with my studies that I can’t remember, not good Wildstar, you haven’t been paying attention to Julie. If she is sleeping around then it might be my fault, ah gees.  Alex never mentioned anything to me. But since the last time we got together, he and Julie seemed to be uncomfortable with each other. They never said anything but I knew something was wrong with them.’ They never knew but one day he overheard their heated conversation about something he heard about her and some pilot. When he walked into the room and asked what was going on they change the subject.

But today was another day; he was going to ask her to marry him. He got a half carat ring for her. He wanted to get her something bigger but on his salary something more would have set him back more than a few credits. ‘Once we’re married I’ll get her a bigger ring’ he thought as he opened the door to their apartment. He began to set everything up for the big question. He placed fake rose petals on the floor and ordered dinner for them. He set up the table for a romantic night with candles and her fine china. He placed a bottle of Champagne on ice and waited for her to come home. He sat on the coach and tuned the video screen to the late news. Once again another part of the planet was hit with a planet bomb taking out the whole area and then drifted off to sleep. When he woke up it was 1 in the morning and saw that the candles had long burnt out and that dinner was cold. He looked around to see if she went to bed and then began to panic that she wasn’t home yet and started to make calls. He called her one friend, Cassandra that told him that she hasn’t seen her all day. Derek was ready to call the academy when he heard the key in the door and she walked in.

“Where have you been, I’ve been worried sick about you!” Derek snapped out of frustration that he couldn’t locate her.

Julie looked around the apartment and saw that he had set up a romantic dinner for the both of them. “I’m sorry babe, but Cassandra had an awful fight with her boyfriend and she asked me to stay with her. We talked so long I lost track of time.”

Derek stood there shock that she could lie to him, he looked at her and asked. “Who is he Julie?”

“What are you talking about?” trying not to show any signs of her indiscretions.

“I called Cassandra and she said she didn’t talk to you all day, so who is he?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. You’ve been listening to Venture and Alex, haven’t you? I told you that they hit on me.”

“Are you telling me that my own brother hit on you?”

“I never wanted to tell you, I knew that it would hurt you. I’m sorry Derek I know it’s hard to believe.”

“You lying bitch, Alex would never do that to me.” Derek said in a low tone filled with anger.

“What did you say?”

“I called you a LYING BITCH” He yelled at her. “Alex never said anything bad about you, but I knew that you and he didn’t get along. Now you tell me that he had a thing for you, HA. One thing I do know is Alex loves me and he would never in a million years hurt me and if you think that I would take your word over MY BROTHER you are sadly mistaken.”

“So you rather believe him over me, the women you’re supposed to love?”

“Oh I loved you, past tense. When you have the gall to tell me that my own brother hit on you then I wised up. Who is he Julie? Or would you just want to end it now?”

Julie looked him in the face, she knew then that she had to end it with him. After speaking with her uncle she knew that he would hurt his career and anyway she liked Hartcliffe better…he was wild, fun, crazy and great in bed which something the Derek lacked. He was too inexperienced and she grown tired of keeping the spark in their sex life. With Hartcliffe, he was like a tiger in bed, and she liked it. Yes it was time to end the relationship with Derek, so with slit eyes she just said “I guess it’s over, Derek”.

Derek stood shock at what she said. ‘Why do I feel like this? They’ve warned me about her for weeks. I shouldn’t be so shocked.’ “Very well Julie, I’ll have my stuff out of here by the time you get home tomorrow. Oh yeah by the way, I got this for you.” He tossed the box at her.

“Do you honestly think that I was going to marry you, and with something this small. You thought that I would say yes?” she laughed at him as she stared at the tiny diamond.

“You know you’re a real bitch, you deserve everything that happens to you. Don’t come crawling back when he dumps you for something better.” He said with bile in his tone.

“Get out Derek! I don’t ever want to see you again!”

“Oh you can count on that, you know Venture was right about you. You’re nothing more than a tramp that wants to use anyone to get what you want! Goodbye Julie,” he said as he walked out the door slamming it behind him.

They both sat on the floor of Nova’s old quarters and talked more about the past. Derek had to grin at it all. “We were so young and stupid back then.”

“Yeah we sure were, too bad it didn’t work out.”

“But it did work out, I found Nova and you have Namir and had Saku.” Derek suddenly knew what he said. “I’m sorry, Julie.”

“No Derek, I brought this on myself and I don’t want Saku thinking I didn’t take responsibility for what I did. I want him to understand wrong from right and the consequences that you have to face.”

“That is very admirable Julie, and I hope that everything works out for you. Namir will follow suit after this is all done, so he can see you and bring Saku to see you. Nova and I spoke and we agree to put in a good word for you. I hope that they are leant with you.”

“Thank you Derek, you and Nova have been great. I think the worst of it is that I will have to explain myself to Saku someday and I pray that he will understand.”

“Julie, he’s your son, there nothing that will stop him from loving you.”

“Thanks, I guess it will all work out.” Bowing her head she only hoped that he was right about it all and it would work out for her and her son. “What do you think is taking so long to get us out of here?” she began to get inpatient.

“Relax they’ll come looking for me sooner or later. I am the captain of the ship. Though Nova did such a good job she may never want me back as Captain let alone as fleet commander.”  They both looked at each other in silence and then let out a laugh.

“I really don’t think that’s the job she wants Derek. I think just knowing that you’re okay is all she ever wanted.”

“Yeah I think you’re right.”

They sat there for a moment when they finally heard someone at the door.

“Wildstar, are you alright?” Wildstar heard Sandors’ voice say.

“Just fine, are you getting us out of here?”

“We’re working on it as we speak. Just stand back.”

“We can’t be any further away from the door, Sandor just get it done.” Wildstar yelled through the door.

“Yes Captain,” He heard him say then heard the sound of a blow torch go on and then flares coming from the door.

Fifteen minutes later Wildstar and Julie stood up and watch the door open. A smile came to his face when he saw his wife standing in the door way with Sandor behind her. “Captain Wildstar why is it that your always getting yourself in trouble with women?” Nova grinned as she spoke.

“The only trouble I want to get into is with you, Commander.”

Rolling her eyes she walked past him and stood in front of Julie. “How are you Julie?”

“Tired, you look a little beat yourself. I don’t know how you do it working under all this.”

“Trust me once everything is done I’m taking a long nap. By the way, I have something to show you.” Nova step back and waved to Sandor. Julie smiled at who was standing in the door way.

“Hello my love.” Namir said.

“Namir! oh my god. I wasn’t expecting to see you so soon.”

“I can’t stay long, there still so much to do. But I wanted to see you and make sure that you were alright.”

“Oh Namir, I miss you so much.” Julie said as she cried. “Any word on Saku?”

“He’s fine, I spoke with Naruto wife before coming here and she tells me that he misses you very much.” He told her as she broke down and cried for her son. “Shh, it’s alright Julie. We will get through this together. Saku will know his mother. I’ll make sure of that.”

“I’m just glad that this is all over, now we can all get on with our lives. Though I have to return to Earth for punishment I know that I am making the right decision. Plus I have Derek and Nova for support. I am willing to face my fate.”

 “Namir we have to go.” Nova interrupted their reunion. “I’m sorry that it was only for a short moment.”

“Yes, but I will be back to see you again before the ship leaves for Earth. I love you Julie, stay strong.”

“I love you too Namir. Please give Saku a kiss for me.” She said as she hugged him tightly.

 

As they entered the bridge Wildstar notice that she looked worn and beat. Making a note to give her sometime later to sleep something he needed also. “Namir looks like you’ll never see Bemlazye again. The Bolar Federation is yours to lead.”

“I love to know what happened to our dear prime minister.”

“Oh I think he’s trying to pull himself together. Though that will be a feat he can’t even do.” Wildstar smirked. “He’s never coming back Namir, we can finally end this and go on with our lives.”

He didn’t quite understand what he was telling him how he defeated him, but he was finally relieved that it was all over. “I guess I should get back down to Rhima and make sure all is well.”

“I will join you shortly so we can discuss the new Bolar Federation. I’m sure that Deslock will be among us to also know what you will do.” Wildstar said.

“Once we’re finish wrapping things up with Bemlazye’s men I will hold a conference with our officers. It will be a long process in getting our people together but it’s a challenge that I am willing to take.” Namir eyes grew tired, it was had been a long time since he felt at ease with his people. He couldn’t wait to speak with Queen Mariposa and inform her that the war was finally coming to an end. Bemlazye was now dead for sure and they could go on with their lives. It will take a while before all the other planets that where ruled under him would get the word. But he wanted to be the one to tell the Queen. “Captain Wildstar thank you and Deslock for all you both have done. We will meet tomorrow at 0900? Will that give you enough time to finish up here?”

“It should be enough time for all of us. My fighters and Deslock’s fighters are wrapping all the remaining Bolars. I will be in touch first thing in the morning.” Namir stood at attention and saluted him. Wildstar stood tall and returned his salute wondering how it will all end with him and Deslock. Gazing over to his wife he watched as she went over some reports with Watanbe. “We will speak later, Corporal Sato please escort Namir to his ship.”

“Aye aye” Sato said then waved to Namir to follow him out. Wildstar walked over to his wife and whisper into her ear. “Why don’t you go rest, I can take over from here.”

Nova gave him a tired smile and said. “I’m alright sir; anyway I’m almost done here.” He gazed into her eyes and saw how tired she was. But he was too tired to argue with her. “Captain you look beat yourself maybe you should go rest.”

“Naw, too whine up from battle. Anyway I need to go see Delvechio, haven’t seen him since we came on ship. I’ll be right back, are you alright to continue?”

“Yes sir.” She winked at him.

 

Medical Ward . . .

 

“Captain!”

“How are you feeling Dee? Are they treating you well here?”

“Yes sir they are. But sir I am really well enough to get back to work. I can see why Yvey was going nuts in here. A pilot is not meant to be in bed while a battle is on. I need to get behind my fighter.”

Wildstar chuckled, “sorry but you’re here for as long as the doctors say you have to. Anyway I’m surprise that you wouldn’t take advantage of the pretty nurses here. I would think that you would love being pampered.”

“Uh to tell you the truth sir, it’s not easy with all these nurses here. How should I put it, I kind of mess with most of them for the exception of nurse Danfield, only because he is a guy.

Wildstar let out a loud laugh and pat him on his good shoulder. “Well I guess you’ll have to rough it and hope that they don’t amputate something that you’ll need later.” He said nodding down to his privates.

Pesci looked down and covered himself with his hand. A shiver ran down his back and he rolled his eyes. “I better make sure that I don’t fall asleep.”

“You brought it on yourself. Commander Forrester did warn you once about messing around with them. Now you’re gonna have to sleep with your eyes open. I better get back to the bridge and check on things. Take care, I’ll check on you later. And Pesh . . .”

“Yes sir?”

“Thank you, I don’t know what Nova would have done if something happened to me. I think she would have been pretty pissed at me if I got myself killed.”

“Sir I’m sure if I didn’t Sato would have taken the shot for you.”

Wildstar felt proud to have a man like him to lead. His crew was the best he could ask for. He himself would have taken the shot if the tables were turned. “Get some rest.” He said as he walked out the door.

 Bridge . . . .

“Captain, Deslock is on line and wishes to speak with you.”

“Put him through, Dash.”

They all looked up as Deslock’s image came on the screen. “Captain Wildstar, we finished rounding up what’s left of Bemlazye’s men. At this time we are assessing our damages and will be heading down to Rhima in the morning with you. Wildstar I would like to talk over something’s before our final meeting with Namir if that’s not too much trouble.”

“I figured as much. I can be there in an hour. We are just finishing up here too.”

“Good, oh yeah Commander Forrester,” looking up to face the screen Nova gave him a tired smile. “You did an excellent job. You can command any of my ships at any time.” Then he faded out.

Feeling drained she felt good to get a compliment from Deslock. Wildstar stood next to her and held her hand. “Why don’t you get some rest, it’s been a long day and you look beat. I’ll be with you soon enough. I’ll just take care of this and then meet up with Deslock.”

“Sir I can finish up here.”

“It’s not a request Commander. It’s an order. Get some rest. I’ll wait here until the relief crew comes.” Wildstar look at his tired wife and began to shove her off the bridge. Unwilling to go she knew that he was right and left the bridge. He watched her leave and then turned to his bridge crew. “Thank you all, you did a hell of a job. Have everything ready for the relief crew and go get some food and rest. We have another long day tomorrow before we begin preparation to head back to Earth. If all goes well tomorrow we will be heading home.” The crew cheered at what he said and reality set in that it was indeed over, they were finally going home.

 

Gamilon flagship Excelsior

“Welcome aboard Wildstar.”

“So Deslock what is it that we need to take care of before tomorrow. Nothing for nothing but I’m pretty beat and would like to spend some time thanking my deputy captain for an excellent job.”

Grinning at his friend Deslock waved him over to a spot to sit. “I won’t keep you long Wildstar, it has been a long day. My concern is with the new shift in leaders. I am hoping that you will be able to bring some input into Bolar and Gamilon territory. We will need a treaty brought up and I can’t think of nothing more than you helping in it. The Bolars respect you and I trust that you will make good decisions. I don’t want a repeat from this war. To tell you the truth I’m getting old and I’m tired of war. It should be fought only to preserve our nations nothing more. The old Bolar Federation only seek to conquer and I hope with Namir things will be better.”

“I agree Dess, I am honor that you have confidence in me to be a part in your treaty with the Bolars. I will talk with my superior and see if they are willing to draw up a treaty for your nations. I will call them the minute I get back to the ship. So if that’s it I can really use some sleep.”

“Thank you my friend I will see you in the morning. By the way I meant it when I said your deputy captain did a great job. Did you teach her or did she teach you how to command?”

Snickering at his remark he had to answer him, “Sometimes I think she taught me. Goodnight Dess.”

“Good night my friend.”

Captain’s Quarters

EDF Battleship Argo

The Commander looked out of the screen at Wildstar and said, “I agree with Deslock, Wildstar you should be the one to handle the treaty. I will have the council draw up the necessary documents. As for the Bolar leader what happened with him?”

“He’s dead, we have nothing to worry about. Sir, about Lieutenant Tolbert?”

“Sorry Wildstar, she still has to stand trial. I only wish I can do more. If she divulges her accomplice they may be more lenient in her sentencing.”

“Thank you sir, Wildstar out.” He said as he sat back and took in a huge breath. After all she’s done he felt sorry for her and wanted to help her. But Singleton was right she still had to stand trial for her actions. He thought maybe he and Nova can sway the jury to give her a short sentence, maybe give her a dishonorable discharge. At least she wouldn’t spend too much time behind bars.

“Hey, is everything alright?” Nova ran her hand down his arm.

“Yeah, I thought you were sleeping. I hope I didn’t wake you.”

“I was up, just thinking of what happened today. I didn’t want to disturb your call with the Admiral. Derek, is it really all over?”

“Looks like it. Deslock and I are going down there tomorrow to work on some kind of treaty. I just hope that it’s something everyone can agree on or else we are going to have another war in our hands. To tell you the truth babe, I am so tired. I really don’t think I can deal with another war.”

“Ha-ha, trust me your adrenaline will go into over drive if there was. You thrive on it.”

“I don’t know this one really took a lot of me. Almost losing you and dealing with Julie I do believe I need a really long vacation once we get home.”

Running her hand down his face he seem a little older to her. “Come to bed, before you know it we’ll be home.”