The Chair

[Wingman_RG]

https://www.unioverse.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/UVBackstory_Issue2_TheChair_Final.pdf

INSIDE THE PROJECT CELESTE BASE CAMP, Malcolm looked out at the husk of the alien ship towering into the dusty red sky. Behind him, sitting in a leather armchair, was Dr. Jaya Madan, who watched him with eyes both keen and kind. Malcolm had met with the psychiatrist several times before, back on Earth, and that’s where she was now. But here, in this room, everything – Dr. Madan, her leather chair, the area rug beneath their feet – was a hologram. She may be all lasers and light, thought Malcolm, but she can’t hide how frustrated she is. “I won’t pass you if you’re not forthcoming, Commander.” “How will you know one way or another?” “I’m good at my job.” “So am I,” said Malcolm, trying to suppress a wry smile and failing. “And I’d like to keep mine. One wrong answer and someone else is heading wherever that ship goes.”

 

Read the rest at the link above.

WM