It soon becomes almost too loud to talk, as the party starts to get into its full swing. Sarah and Liz excuse themselves and head in the direction of the dance floor. I can tell that Lou and Gavin are eager to join them and I’m happy to wave them off to enjoy themselves while I just content myself with sitting and relaxing.

“Aidan?”

“Oh, hello Maria. I didn’t see you there.” I’d been staring into the distance for a few minutes and had zoned out a little.

“Yes, I had to call your name three times.” Maria is wearing a very short dress with a low-cut top. She really is very attractive and shorter than most women on Sevrin. I must be a fool for letting her go, but the spark really was never there between us, no matter how hard we tried to ignite it.

“Sorry, I was just deep in thought. How are you?”

“Very well, thank you. I hear that you are going to work in Eastleigh?”

“Yes, it seems like a great assignment. I should have told you.”

“Aidan, it’s fine, really. We both know it wasn’t working out between us. I just wanted to say that I hope we can keep in touch.”

“Of course. I’ll be in a strange and faraway place with very few people that I know. Did you know Sarah is going out there as well?”

“Yes, I heard. Liz is a bit worried, but I’m sure they’ll be fine.”

“And you, have you got work sorted out yet?”

“No, I’m hoping to check in with the AI later in the week. I’ve no intention of leaving the city, though.”

“Well, I didn’t either, until yesterday.” I tell her ruefully. “Sometimes the best choice isn’t the simplest one.”

“No, but we should always try and do what is best, shouldn’t we?”

“Yes, for ourselves and for those around us.”

“I just wanted to tell you that Sam Lloyd has asked to walk me home later. I didn’t want you to find out second-hand.”

“Don’t be daft. Have fun. Actually, do everything I wouldn’t do – if that even makes any sense.”

“Yes, Aidan, it does. I’m in no rush, but I might like him a bit already.”

“Good for you Maria. Have a good evening.” I tell her as she stands, seeing Sam out of the corner of her eye. She bends down and kisses me gently on the cheek before walking over to him and leading him in the direction of the dance floor.

It's been good to catch up with some of my friends, but it is becoming obvious that I’m one of the few people here on their own. I’m not particularly bothered about being in a quiet corner by myself, but I can hardly describe the experience as enjoyable.

Lou comes back after about an hour, clearly exhausted from an hour of hard dancing with Gavin. “Gavin’s, gone off to the bathroom,” she tells me as she flops down beside me. “Did I see Maria earlier?”

“Yes, she just wanted to tell me she’s here with Sam. I’m happy for her.” Lou gives me that questioning look that I’m so used to. “No, really, Lou. I was holding her back.”

“Well, it’s still early in the evening. We could try and find you some other lonely soul to take your mind of things?”

“No. I’m not looking for a casual hook-up. You know that’s not me in any way. Besides, I’m off to the far side of Sevrin in less than a week.”

“Sorry. I just think it would be nice if you had someone in your life. Promise me you won’t hide in your apartment when you get to Eastleigh.”

“I won’t, I promise. But I’m not going there looking for romance. I’m going to work.”

“Well, you’ve promised now, so I think you’ll be surprised.”

“Anyway, I think I’m going to sneak off early. It really has been a busy day and I’ve loads to do during the rest of the week.”

“Well, if you feel that way, it’s probably a good idea. I’ll make your excuses with the others. Best go now, while they’re all still occupied. You’ll have no chance when they stop for refuelling.”

“Thanks Lou. I’ll see you for lunch at the weekend as usual? It’ll be my treat, as it will be the last time for I don’t know how long!”

“Yes. I’m not missing my last lunch for what might be years.”

“Goodnight Lou. Have a good evening with Gavin.”

“We’ll try our best,” she tells me with a wink.