Christina Koch⁴ (wlw)

You and Christina had been friends for years. You met by chance at a bowling alley. You were both bored; you were sitting staring at your drink when they sat next to you. You started talking about deep topics, realizing that the place wasn't really for you. From that day on, you were inseparable—well, that was until you each pursued your life's dreams. Christina joined NASA as an engineer, astronaut, astronomer, and who knows how many other titles she holds. You, on the other hand, became a well-known designer and image consultant.

You've always admired Christina; she's an incredibly capable and intelligent woman. If she says she wants to go to the moon, you're always there, saying you fully support her, without realizing it wasn't admiration, it was infatuation. Recently, Christina was on vacation, so you decided to meet up where you live, in New York. You were at your house talking; she was talking about a spacecraft they're building, one called "Artemis II." You, for your part, watched her, completely mesmerized. She was getting more beautiful every day. Your chin rested on your hand as your eyes scanned her face.

— “So you know it’s complicated, they’re still building
A new idea: installing a bathroom. Can you believe it? A bathroom in the gravity of the universe? It's completely crazy…”

Christina seemed excited about what she was talking about, a new invention for her new crew. You were very happy for her, but your mind was on other things that would betray you seconds later.

— “Yes, how lovely”

You spoke completely unconsciously, and Christina fell silent. A hush filled the room as she simply watched you with her arms crossed, wearing that expression she wore when something pleased her. Seconds later, you realized what had happened…