37º 26’ 36” North, 5º 51’ 49” West
European Aerospace Centre, Seville
Thursday, 18 October 2012
10:00 GMT+1
Preston had continued to visit the EAC over the past few weeks as part of his mission to gather information about the Hermes Project launch system. He had even been given permission to visit the construction site where the electromagnetic catapult launch platform was being built. That morning he was due to attend a launch simulation. He would finally see the catapult in action with his own eyes; it was the perfect opportunity to assess its effectiveness. It was an extremely important stage in the development of the launch system and couldn’t have come at a better time for him. The simulation would be the last piece of the puzzle he needed to complete his report, their best weapon to overcome the final hurdles to the Phoenix programme. General Giles had rung him personally the day before to see how he was progressing. It was normally his secretary, Lieutenant Drayton, who asked for daily updates. Pressure in Washington was clearly mounting. Despite the X-56’s success in the Groom Lake test, Congressman Casper had drummed up more support for his cause. Preston had heard from reliable sources that a motion would shortly be submitted to Congress requesting that the project be cancelled. Preston was due to wind up his duties in Spain and return to the United States the following week once his mission had been completed. There was no time left for delays or errors.
Preston was listening attentively to a Hermes Project engineer as they drove across the complex in an EAC transport vehicle towards the electromagnetic catapult control centre. He tried to spot Luis as they passed the Flight Interface Department but couldn’t see past the two soldiers guarding the entrance. He hadn’t spoken to Luis since his visit; Preston hoped he was feeling better. What a shame it would be for a young man with so much potential to have his career cut short by stress and unchecked perfectionism. Preston still held out hope that Luis might be convinced to join his team once university and the internship had finished. His instinct told him that Luis was a warrior like himself. A spirit that only felt truly free in the heat of the battle or soaring through the skies above. He just had to find a way to make him see it. When he shared his thoughts with Chapman, his old friend wondered if Preston’s expectations weren’t too high. But he did admit that Preston’s instinct for judging people and recognizing a fellow fighting spirit had never been wrong. Takeda’s recruitment was a good example. The young pilot had since proven to be the best aviator they had ever known. Much better than they were, in fact. Who could say what Luis would be capable of with the right teacher and the means to match his potential?
The transport vehicle carrying Preston had just reached the entrance to the electromagnetic catapult control centre. Security measures in this area of the EAC were even stricter, if that were possible. They had to pass through four additional control points, each one manned by four guards armed with P90 compact assault rifles and pistols. The control centre was the newest part of the EAC and had been opened just two months earlier. Today it would finally become fully operative. Preston could see a large number of scientists and engineers inside and almost all were Hermes Project department heads. Sánchez, the pr coordinator who had given him a tour on his first day, was not among them. Preston was unsurprised. Not even she had sufficient authorisation to access this area. Security and confidentiality were vital to the simulation. The EAC had not yet made public the fact that it would be able to launch spaceships into space from its facilities. It had to be completely sure that the system worked before this information was filtered to the media. Admittedly, there wouldn’t be a real launch for some time yet. However, today’s simulation was the first definitive step along the road. As far as Preston knew, it would be at least six months before the first Hermes spaceship prototype was assembled, assuming there were no delays. Whether or not they were ready to make a launch on time also depended on completing the small hydrogen reactor that was being built at the north of the complex. It was an essential part of the process because it would generate the energy needed by the electromagnetic catapult and the rest of the EAC.
The control centre was furnished with several tables topped with large screens that flickered with data and graphics. Technicians were hovering around the screens, firmly focused on the final preparations; the test could begin at any moment. The researchers were talking among themselves when Jordi Bellvitge, head of the Catapult Department, appeared. Originally from Barcelona, he was an internationally renowned expert in electromagnetic fields. Following a number of conversations with him, Preston had concluded that Bellvitge was undoubtedly responsible for discovering how to make the electromagnetic catapult viable for transporting humans into space.
“Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please. We’re about to begin the preliminary simulation of the Athena,” Bellvitge announced to the attendees. “That’s the provisional name we’ve given our catapult prototype. As you’re all aware, we’ve worked long and hard to reach this point. And I don’t just mean the Catapult Department team, but every department across the EAC, represented by their Heads who are with us here today. If this first simulation is a success, it will be the precursor to several more that will culminate in a real test of the Athena, once construction has finished.”
Bellvitge switched on one of the large screens to display a 3D representation of the electromagnetic catapult. It illustrated its various construction phases, beginning with the basic structure of the catapult and concluding with an image of the finished model and how it was connected to the rest of the EAC. Preston studied the power lines that ran from the fusion reactor and also the gear assembly that would elevate the catapult up to ground level for a launch. Once it was finished, the catapult would measure just under two thousand seven hundred feet long. Bellvitge explained that the modules that appeared every fifty yards along its length were electromagnetic regulators. They were responsible for controlling the acceleration speed of the projectile as it was launched. Whoever was operating the catapult would therefore have total control over the acceleration speed. This was a huge advantage that meant a balance could be struck between maintaining power levels in the ion fusion engines, once the spacecraft was in the air, and assuring the crew’s safety. The astronauts on board couldn’t be exposed to excess gravity. If everything went as planned, it would mean spacecrafts could be sent into space at a vastly reduced financial cost while consuming a thousand times less energy.
When the animation finished, everyone sat down and Bellvitge and his assistants took their seats to begin the catapult simulation.
“Good. The simulation we’re about to run will include all the conditions you would find in a real launch. The system will determine whether or not the calculations and design are sufficiently functional and efficient. We also want to determine the level of synchronisation between the system and our hardware, based on field projections made using previous tests,” Bellvitge pointed to the graphs that were displayed on one of the screens. “As you know, this technology has been in development for years. It’s been of particular interest to the military. Our aim is to find a way it can be used for safe space travel and not just to destroy targets…”
Bellvitge murmured something to an assistant sitting next to him who began the countdown. “OK. Starting simulation in three, two, one…”
The Athena appeared on the screen again and a message flashed up to announce the start of phase one.
Bellvitge began the launch process. “Initial power supply.”
“Activated,” the assistant replied.
“Test projectile anchor.”
“Set.”
“Elevating catapult to launch angle.”
“Elevation completed. Optimum launch angle obtained.”
“Increase energy by fifty percent,” Bellvitge ordered.
“Energy at fifty percent. All systems stable.”
“Increase energy to seventy five percent.”
“Energy increased to seventy five percent. Slight peaks detected but all systems remain stable.”
“Activate ERMS.”
“ERMS one to thirty-two activated.”
“Calibrating ERMS. Constant acceleration at thirty five percent.”
“ERMS operative. Calibrated at thirty five percent.”
“Increase power to one hundred percent.”
“Power at one hundred percent. Instability detected in the electromagnetic field.”
“Activate containment module.”
“Containment module activated. EM field stable. Green light on all Athena systems. Critical energy for catapult shot obtained.”
“Countdown to projectile launch.”
“Projectile launch in five, four, three, two, one…”
“Launch projectile.”
“Projectile launched.”
The viewers watched eagerly as a 3D image of the theoretical spacecraft was catapulted forwards at great speed. The image had been slowed down so that they could clearly see the details of the launch process.
“Projectile charged at thirty percent. Acceleration constant and stable,” the assistant reported.
“Load projectile launch vector.”
“Vector loaded and ready.”
“Ignite ion fusion engines.”
“Engines at ten percent power.”
As soon as the ion fusion engines were turned on, the projectile began to accelerate faster and faster.
“Projectile acceleration five points faster than expected.”
“Activate continuous automatic calibration of ERMS.”
“ERMS recalibrated. Acceleration within normal levels. The projectile has covered seventy percent of the catapult.”
“Gradually increase ion fusion engine power. One percent for each forward progress percentage.”
“Ion fusion engines gradually accelerating. Optimum launch speed in five seconds.”
The projectile continued to accelerate until it finally took off and was flung out of the catapult at full speed.
“Engine power at eighty percent,” Bellvitge commanded.
“Engines at eighty percent. Exceeding escape speed. Acceleration within acceptable levels. Leaving atmosphere in twenty seconds. Initiating refrigeration of ERM modules and launch catapult. All energy levels stable. Initiating reverse for deactivation.”
During the simulation, the spectators had seen different colours flood through each section and component of the Athena, indicating its temperature and power charge. If power levels rose too high it would have meant the system potentially overheating with catastrophic results. But so far, levels had remained normal. The projectile had now left the virtual Earth’s atmosphere and had begun to orbit the planet.
“Orbit set at an altitude of three hundred miles. Nominal energy levels for correcting trajectory. Projectile successfully launched into space,” the assistant elatedly announced.
“Well, I think I can say we’ve just successfully completed the first Athena simulation. I’m pleased to announce that if this had been a real test, we’d have launched a spacecraft into space in record time,” Bellvitge continued to monitor all the values.
Everyone broke out into applause and congratulations. Preston noted how excited and emotional everyone was. They had clearly had placed all their hope in the project. It was important to them for professional reasons but also on a personal level too. Personally, he had been dumbfounded by the simulation. It all seemed so easy and straightforward when you watched it on a screen but he knew how complex the work behind it had been. He made a mental note to himself: the ERMS and use of a constant energy source seemed to be the two crucial elements that made the launch system viable. Being able to control the projectile’s acceleration in real time and adapt it to actual events as required by the catapult shot was completely revolutionary.
Up until now, the military had been responsible for most developments in this field. Any progress had involved launch systems that consumed vast quantities of energy, always accelerated at the same rate, could not be modified and were designed for use by one type of projectile alone. In contrast, the Athena model was a multi-use electromagnetic catapult that could be adapted to any kind of projectile. Acceleration could be modified, meaning it could be used to send both manned and unmanned spacecraft into space. And its energy consumption was far lower than anything he could have dreamed of. He had no further questions. A version of the Athena was just what they needed to see the Phoenix fly into space.
18:00 GMT+1
It was late afternoon and the scorching sun was beating down on Seville. The researchers, technicians, engineers and young interns at the EAC remained focused on their work. Luis and Eva were busy with a new task that Steinwall had assigned to them the moment they had arrived at the Flight Interface Department that afternoon. Steinwall was particularly upbeat today, refusing to disclose the reason he was so buoyant, only revealing that the Hermes Project had taken a significant step forwards.
Luis had fully recovered from the accident, the only aftermath being an irritating burning sensation in the wound at the back of his neck. He had returned to his university classes and work at the EAC last Tuesday, just two days after being discharged from hospital. However, he had decided to heed the advice of his doctors, parents and friends. Following their recommendations, he was taking things easier and trying to avoid any unnecessary stress. It wasn’t easy. But there was definite good news: he hadn’t had any more strange dreams. He had slept through from night until morning. Being terrorised by horrifying images until he woke appeared to be a thing of the past. But for some reason he still couldn’t shake off an uneasy sense of foreboding…
Further good news was that his relationship with Eva was now even better than ever. Ever since the accident she had been far more affectionate with him. He wasn’t sure why, but was delighted to be the main focus of her attention. Presumably she was still worried about him and that was the reason she was so doting. Unfortunately, they hadn’t exactly had much time for fun and laughs lately. However, much Luis might want to take things easy, the university and EAC wouldn’t wait around with their arms folded.
He was just checking over a design with Eva when Steinwall called everyone together into the meeting room.
“As I’ve explained before, the Hermes Project took a big step forwards today. I can’t give you any specific details, but what I can say is that we just ran a vitally important test,” Steinwall stood in front of them, serious.
“Does the test affect us directly?” Jean-Luc Verheide sensed that they were going to have to take on more of the blame.
“No. Technically speaking, our departmental resources weren’t used. But it does mean the start of a new work phase,” he shook his head, raising his left index finger.
“A new phase?” Eva opened her eyes, intrigued.
“Yes. We’re going to have to increase our efficiency and capacity for working under stress,” Steinwall examined them all closely.
“Just what my doctor ordered,” Luis snorted, unable to help but laugh at the irony of the comment.
“Well, this is serious. To get started, I’ve been working on several changes that we need to make to the flight interface prototype.”
“What kind of changes?” David Rojas's face turned sour.
“Practically every system. Yes, don’t look at me like that… I know I’m effectively asking you to review everything we’ve done since we began. But when you analyse the modifications, you’ll see that they’ll save us a great deal of time and significantly improve our results,” Steinwall raised his hands to silence the protests.
“So, we should stop what we’re working on and make this our priority?” In the end Ruben Costa dared to speak.
“You’ve got it. I’m going to update your work devices with the changes and the documents you’ll need. That goes for Eva and Luis too. I know you’re only assistants, but I think it’s time that you integrated more into the department. Time we gave you more responsibility,” Steinwall said, looking at them both.
Eva and Luis nodded. Hard work lay ahead, but how thrilling to discover that they were already being entrusted with more responsibility, just weeks after starting at the EAC. It was a clear sign that they had convinced Steinwall of their worth.
“Excellent. Well, we’ve all got a lot to be getting on with, so back to it… Every second counts,” Steinwall warned, drawing the meeting to a close.
Everyone stood up and returned to their workstations to read the updates they had been sent. Just as Steinwall had warned, the work load was monumental. They would have to change practically everything that had been done on the flight interface to date. Luis quickly scanned through the information and realised that the changes were highly innovative. If they were as effective as the theory suggested, the interface would be significantly improved. An hour and a half remained before it was time to leave and Luis was determined to make the most of every second. He didn’t mind knuckling down, particularly as that evening he and Eva had arranged to go out for dinner, agreeing that they needed to let their hair down after recent stressful events.
37º 23’ 20” North, 5º 59’ 56” West
Centre of Seville
19:00 GMT+1
Tristan was strolling down the street to the sound of one of his favourite rock bands, his earbuds plugged in to his mobile phone. He had travelled into the centre of Seville to look for a present for Luis. That Saturday the family was going to celebrate his brother’s birthday and Tristan was determined to find him a really special gift. Luis deserved it, especially after the accident. Having Luis at home convalescing had been like going back to the good old days, when Tristan could spend as much time as he liked with his brother. Tristan had loved it, even if Luis had been the centre of attention yet again. It saddened him that Luis had only stayed such a short time before returning to his own flat.
Now that he had left, Tristan was stuck facing his mother’s criticism about his guitar-playing and music alone. Deep down he knew that she loved him and only wanted him to focus on his studies so that he could have a successful career like his big brother. But that wasn’t for him, it wasn’t what he enjoyed or even wanted. His passion was chords and wild rhythms that rocked everyone and everything in listening distance.
Tristan soon reached his destination, a model store that was famous among modelling enthusiasts. He knew Luis loved the history of space travel, particularly the Apollo programme, so he was set on buying him a model of Apollo 11. It was a hugely significant spacecraft. Apollo 11 transported the first manned mission to the Moon, marking a milestone in space travel that had yet to be equalled. Mankind had still not returned to the surface of the Earth’s satellite, although various missions were planned for the near future. At least that was what Luis had told him.
The shelves in the shop were heaving with models of every size and shape, from trains to dioramas of famous battles, including the two World Wars, Vietnam, Napoleon’s campaigns and more. Tristan could have spent hours examining every detail of the beautiful reproductions. They had always fascinated Luis and him ever since they were boys. After whiling away several minutes gazing at the various pieces on display, he finally found the Apollo 11 model. Picking it up, he headed to the counter. Tristan asked to have it gift-wrapped then took the present and receipt and left the shop with a broad smile. He couldn’t wait to see Luis’s face when he opened it. He was going to love it. And he would almost certainly ask Tristan if they could make the model spacecraft together. He bounced down the street to the sound of his music as he made his way back to the bus station. It was going to be an unforgettable weekend…
37º 25’ 23” North, 5º 57’ 55” West
Pino Montano, Seville
22:00 GMT+1
It was getting late. Luis was going to kill her. But there was no way she could have got ready on time. It had been enough of a rush just trying to shower and change… Now Eva was hurriedly doing her make-up in the bathroom. Tonight, she was determined to look as spectacular as possible. In theory, she and Luis were meeting up as friends to unwind after their recent troubles. But Eva had an ulterior motive. She was going to take their friendship to the next stage… Since his accident, her feelings for Luis had blossomed. Over the past week, her true feelings for him had been more obvious to her than ever. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw him arrive at university each day. And then at the EAC in the afternoons, they seemed to understand each other like never before. They were always on exactly the same page and she loved it. She just knew they were made for each other. Did Luis realise how she felt? He had always been a bit naive about these things… Just one of the reasons she adored him.
Her mobile phone rang. It was a missed call from Luis, he must already be downstairs waiting for her. They had arranged for him to pick her up and then drive back to Triana, his neighbourhood, for dinner and drinks. The official plan was to have an early night, but she was hoping things might last a little longer than that… Who cared if they had classes and then the Hermes Project the following day? She looked at herself in the mirror. Eva wasn’t big-headed, but tonight she really did look beautiful. In fact, she looked stunning. For the ‘date’, she had chosen a sexy black dress that made the most of her cleavage. Her breasts might be small but they were perfectly formed, she always said to herself. The truth was that tonight she was utterly beguiling, no man could resist her charms. But naturally, there was only one that interested her… Her Luisito.
Her mobile vibrated again. Luis was getting impatient, she thought with a smile. A quick touch-up to her eyes, a dash of power on her cheeks, some passion red lipstick and voilà… She was ready. She put on her heels, sprayed herself liberally with her favourite perfume, grabbed her bag and told her mother she was off and not to wait up. She would probably sleep over at a friend’s house, she said, wincing at the lie.
She took the lift down to the ground floor and the minute she left the building, she immediately spotted Luis’s red car double-parked outside. As soon as he saw her, he jumped out of the car, kissed her on each cheek and looked her up and down approvingly.
“You look amazing! I thought it was just going to be a quiet night out…” He couldn’t take his eyes off her.
“I know… But then I thought, what the hell? It’s just this once and I fancied looking good,” Eva was feeling really radiant.
“But you always look good, whatever you wear.”
“Well, today even more so. Besides, you’ve dressed up yourself,” she said with a wink.
“What, this? It’s just jeans and a shirt.”
“Well you look great.”
“Thanks… OK, let’s go, I’m starving,” Luis said as he opened the car door for her.
“Such a gentleman!” Eva smiled at him as she climbed in.
Luis sat in the driver’s seat, started the engine and they sped off towards Triana. He told Eva it would be best if they parked in the garage under his apartment building and then walked to the restaurant. They were going to a small gastrobar, modelled on the type of place that was typical in Seville back in the seventies. Tucked away and hard to find, it was famous throughout the city and always buzzing with people, with good reason. The waiters were friendly and welcoming, there was an open kitchen and the dishes were creative and inexpensive. Instead of a fixed menu, one wall served as a blackboard and dishes were scrawled down and wiped away according to their availability. There was something different on offer each day. Luis had been encouraging Eva to visit it for ages and tonight he had finally succeeded. In reality, she had been dying to go; this was the perfect occasion.
They parked in Luis’s garage and walked outside to Calle Betis. From here they could see the whole river and famous landmarks such as the Torre del Oro and Isabel II Bridge. It was a fair walk through the narrow streets but far better to leave the car here because parking was practically impossible in this area of the city. It also meant that Luis was free to drink as much as he liked and besides, if they tired of walking, they could always find a taxi. Although it was well into October, the weather was still remarkably hot in Seville and the streets were busy. The numerous riverside bars were crowded with people.
After a ten-minute walk they reached their destination. The small restaurant was already packed with drinkers inside. Peering in, they admired the stylish interior design and black walls. The wall used as a large blackboard was covered with a long list of tapas, wines and prices. An old-fashioned television sat in one corner, adding to the eclectic decoration. Behind the bar they could see into the minimalist kitchen where two chefs were busy cooking that evening’s dishes. There were several tables outside and a few more inside; as they entered, one of the waiters asked them where they would prefer to sit. It was a warm evening so they decided to enjoy the fresh air. After ordering two beers, they scanned one of the outdoor black-boards to see what was on offer.
“You were right, Luis. This place is great. Small, hidden away and totally charming. And from what I’ve seen so far, the food looks amazing,” Eva nodded as she looked inside the premises.
“What did I say? We should have come here ages ago,” Luis opened his eyes comically, gesturing.
“I know… We used to have dinner together every week, until you started seeing Marta…”
“Yeah, I know. To be honest I’ve been a bit of an idiot over the past few months.”
“An idiot? What do you mean?” She looked at him with keen interest.
“Because I stopped doing things I really enjoyed, things that inspire me. The truth is, I don’t feel that good about how I’ve behaved lately,” Luis lowered his head.
“Hey, come on… Don’t beat yourself up about it. It’s happened to all of us. What matters is that you’ve realised and are doing something to change it,” Eva said encouragingly, taking his hand.
“I—” Luis began, looking her straight in the eyes.
“Excuse me,” the waiter interrupted. “What would you like to drink?”
Eva rapidly let go of Luis’s hand while he nervously picked up the menu, the magic of the moment suddenly broken by the untimely question.
“What do you fancy?” Luis tried to hide his nerves.
“I don’t mind. Whatever you want,” her eyes continued to pierce him.
“OK. But no complaining if there’s something you don’t like.”
“Don’t worry, I trust you. Anyway, everything looks delicious,” Eva was salivating just reading the names on the menu.
“Right, we’ll have the mushroom and beef risotto, the chorizo lollipops, the Russian salad with prawns and the duck noodles. That should be enough to be getting on with,” Luis said to the waiter.
“Very good. Would you like anything else to drink?” the waiter asked when he noticed they had finished their beers.
“Shall we move on to wine?” Luis looked suggestively at Eva.
“Yes, good idea. I’d like a nice red.”
“A bottle of red, please,” Luis ordered.
“Coming up, sir.”
The waiter headed off into the bar, returning shortly afterwards with a bottle and two wine glasses. After pouring them a glass each he disappeared again and Luis and Eva picked up their drinks to take a sip. At that moment, Eva froze still. She was staring at something just behind Luis. Surprised, he twisted around to see what had caught her eye. A man and a woman were sitting at the table behind him.
“Do you know them?” He turned to her, intrigued.
“No, sorry… The man… He just reminded me…” Eva’s voice trailed off.
“Of your father?” Luis asked, carefully.
“Yes, there’s something similar about him.”
“You must really miss him… I can’t even imagine what you went through when it happened.”
“We were really close. He always supported me. In everything. He’d have loved to see me working on the Hermes Project,” she said, her voice charged with emotion.
“Who says he can’t? I’m sure that, wherever he is, he’s looking down on you and admiring your every achievement. He’ll always live on in your heart and memories, Eva,” He encouraged her by stroking her hand.
“Do you think so? It would be lovely if that were true. Actually, I’ve always had this feeling… This belief that I can feel his presence whenever I’ve hit a low point. He was always so positive. He never gave up. You kind of remind me of him,” she said, fighting back tears.
“Seriously? I don’t know what to say…”
“Don’t say anything. Let’s make a toast.” Eva raised her glass, smiling.
“A toast to what?” Luis also smiled and raised his glass.
“To us. Because now we can start having dinner together again all the time. And to nothing coming between us or ruining our friendship.” Eva gave him an intense look, straight in his eyes.
“To us, then. May nothing come between us or ruin our friendship,” Luis repeated, beaming.
They clinked their glasses together and then rested them on the table, as tradition dictated, before raising them to drink. The wine was excellent, smooth with delicious hints of fruit.
The waiter returned with their food; everything looked wonderful and they instantly set about eating. It had been a long time since they enjoyed themselves so much, savouring the food and finishing the whole bottle of wine. By this point Eva and Luis were both quite tipsy, cracking endless jokes and reminiscing.
The waiter returned. “Would you like some dessert?”
“What do you have?” Eva asked, tempted by something sweet.
“We have quite a selection. I’ll bring you some tasters and you can choose what you’d prefer.”
“Perfect.”
The waiter reappeared shortly afterwards with a tray covered with small plastic cups containing different types of dessert. One particularly caught their eye because it came in a small box like a hamburger from a fast-food restaurant. When they opened it, they saw it was an imitation hamburger made from chocolate and other sweet ingredients. Eva was mad about chocolate so her choice was easy. Luis also picked his favourite: blueberry cheesecake.
When they had finished, they asked for the bill. Luis insisted on paying; Eva tried to protest but there was no persuading him.
“OK, you win. But in that case, if you’re getting dinner, the drinks are on me,” She pouted and narrowed her eyes.
“Drinks? We’ve got class tomorrow. Are you sure?” He wasn’t expecting that.
“Oh, listen to you! Maybe your accident really did affect your brain. It’s just one night… Come on, a couple of drinks won’t kill you! And I wouldn’t mind a little dance too…” she bit her lips softly.
“OK, who am I to say no⁈ Especially if you look at me like that…” Luis was happy to go with the flow.
“Come on then, take me somewhere we can have some rum and hit the dancefloor…”
Luis left the money on the table and they stood up to leave. They decided on a nightclub in La Cartuja; it was fairly close but they didn’t fancy walking and hailed a taxi. During the ride they couldn’t take their eyes off each other. They chatted in low voices, their hands entwining as if by silent agreement and only unlinking when the taxi stopped. After paying and getting out, they joined the entrance queue. It was still early and there weren’t many people ahead of them so they didn’t have to wait long. After greeting the bouncers and doorman, they slipped inside the nightclub.
They found themselves inside a large, rectangular, theatre-like building. It had a VIP area in an upper gallery and a stage on the far side where dancers performed at various moments during the night. They went to the bar to order their drinks; honey rum from the Canary Islands for Eva and a rum and coke for Luis. Once they had been served, they headed to some sofas to drink and chat comfortably. The crowds had yet to arrive and there wasn’t enough of an atmosphere to dance. Even so, the loudspeakers were already thumping out the biggest dance hits of the year.
“Another toast?” Luis suggested.
“Sure. What are we drinking to this time?” Eva answered.
“You decide,” he pointed at her with his finger.
“OK, let’s see… Let’s toast to having a fantastic night that we remember forever,” she raised her glass.
“I’ll drink to that. To remembering tonight forever.” Luis raised his glass to meet hers.
Touching their glasses, they stared at each other right in the eyes. Their pupils were shining, whether it was from the flashing lights, the drink or the excitement of the moment it was hard to say. Taking a long, deep sip they soon felt mellow, relaxed by the sweet taste of rum and the upbeat music. Luis could barely remember what it was like to be out letting loose in a nightclub. Eva kept her eyes firmly on him as they chatted. She was starting to feel wildly happy in a way she had never felt with anyone before. It made her anxious, she could tell she was falling for him hard. But he seemed so receptive. Did he feel the same way about her too? The mere possibility filled her with joy and she grabbed his hand, pulling him up after her.
“That’s enough resting. Time to see your moves on the dancefloor,” she said, sticking out her tongue.
“Hey, remember I’m technically recovering from an accident… Take it easy on this wounded soldier,” Luis pretended to have a limped foot.
“Yeah, right. Excuses, excuses… Time to dance,” she said, dragging him onto the middle of the dancefloor.
There were enough people by now to dance without either being the centre of attention or bumping into anyone. Finding a spot between two other groups, they were soon carried away by the music. Eva loved to dance and had a good sense of rhythm, escaping for nights out with her friends whenever she could. Luis, on the other hand, wasn’t quite so keen. That said, he got by well enough when needed and pulled out all the stops if he was dancing with a girl. It was like each year at the Seville April Fair… He didn’t much like sevillanas, but certainly wasn’t going to stand on the side-lines should an attractive girl in a flamenco dress invite him to join her.
Luis and Eva danced and drank for another couple of hours. The music was generally fast but they jumped on any chance they had to press up against each other and dance closely. Endlessly gazing into each other’s eyes, they couldn’t stop laughing, making silly comments about anything and everything. Dancing around him, Eva was never far from Luis and sometimes he grabbed her around the waist and pulled her up against him. They felt very close, in every sense of the word. This is like a dream, Eva thought to herself. When they finished their last drink, she brushed her lips against Luis’s ear: “Shall we get out of here?”
“Sure, are you getting tired?” Luis asked, struggling to hear her above the music.
“No, but I’ve had enough dancing. Have you got any rum at yours?”
“I think so. Why?”
“We could have one more there… It’ll be more relaxed.” Her gaze was provocative.
“Umm… OK. But how will you get back afterwards?”
“Don’t worry, I’ll get a taxi.” Eva smiled to herself.
“OK then. Let’s go,” Luis said, grabbing her by the waist and guiding her out of the nightclub.
They headed to the line of taxis waiting outside and tumbled into the vehicle at the head of the queue. Luis gave the driver the directions and they pulled away. Eva rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. Luis was about to tease her about nodding off when he stopped. He realised that having her so close to him was the most comforting feeling he had ever known. He didn’t want to break the spell. Gazing fondly down at her, he suddenly remembered Marta… She wouldn’t be remotely amused to find out about his night out with Eva. Seeing Eva like this, snuggled up against him, he felt thoroughly confused. Pressure seemed to be building in his chest. How was tonight going to end?
They reached Luis’s house in less than five minutes. He paid and gently woke Eva up.
“Ohh… Don’t say I fell asleep! I was so comfy…” She stretched out, sleepy.
“I know. That’s why I didn’t wake you. We’re here,” Luis said, opening the taxi door.
He climbed out and helped Eva to her feet. After pushing the taxi door shut, they went into Luis’s apartment building. He lived in a loft apartment so they took the lift to the top floor.
“It’s been a while since I’ve been round yours,” Eva tried to remember.
“I know… Not since that party at the beginning of summer.”
“That was a good day, wasn’t it?”
“Yes… Remember when Miguel tried to jump off the balcony because he thought he could fly⁈ He was so wasted…”
Eva laughed. “How could I forget⁈ That was so crazy…”
They reached the top floor and walked out of the lift. Luis unlocked the front door and they headed inside, switching on the lights as they went. The flat was small but cozy with a small, fully-equipped kitchen, a rectangular sitting room with a dining table, two two-seater sofas and a huge, flat-screen television on one side and a bathroom with a relaxing hot-tub. Finally, there was the bedroom where Luis had set up a small desk with his computer, a double bed and fitted wardrobes. The sitting room led onto the part of the flat that he and his friends loved the most: the terrace. It was large, almost twice the length of the sitting room, with matchless views out over the river and city centre, including the Torre del Oro, Seville Cathedral and the Giralda bell-tower. Looking around at the clean and tidy flat, Eva couldn’t help wondering if Luis was the one to keep it looking so smart or if he had a cleaner.
They eased back onto one of the sofas and Luis turned on the television. He flicked through the channels, picking one that played music videos so they had some background noise.
“So, how about those drinks?” Eva's voice sounded very suggestive.
“Sure, coming up,” Luis replied, standing up. “I’ll be in the kitchen.”
He went into the kitchen and took out two large glasses from a cupboard and some ice from the freezer. He was about to open the bag of ice when he sensed Eva and her subtle fragrance just behind him.
“You know what? I don’t really fancy a drink after all…” heard her sensual voice.
Luis turned to face her while feeling a tingling sensation running through his entire body. “You don’t? No? Then what—?”
He had barely turned around when Eva cut him off by kissing him gently on the lips. Luis froze, unsure how to react. Eva pulled away and met his eyes with a look that burned with desire.
“I love you, Luisito.”
He was speechless. The kiss and those compelling words had sent his heart wild. He felt as though rivers of fire were flooding through his body. Luis stared back at her, so close to him, her face just inches away. So sweet, so beautiful, her eyes shining with love. He couldn’t find the words to reply but his whole being told him one thing: he loved her, he desired her, he needed her.
Then it was his turn to put his lips on hers and kiss her, hesitantly at first, then with greater intensity. She wrapped her arms around him as their lips and tongues started to explore. They returned to the sitting room and collapsed on the sofa, kissing harder, more wildly. Soon their hands were running over each other’s bodies, their desire intensifying as each felt the other excitedly respond.
After a few minutes Eva stood up and took Luis by the hand, leading him to his bedroom, to his bed. Still standing, they started to slowly undress one another, as if following the steps of an ancient rite, pausing to kiss and caress their partner’s body. Now naked, they poured kisses over each other, their bodies pressing together and limbs entangling. Then Eva pushed Luis backwards down onto the bed and positioned herself on top of him while kissing his face, neck and chest.
Their bodies became one in a wild and wanton rhythmic dance, the apartment echoing with their cries and gasps as they lost all sense of time and space. The world around them vanished, nothing else mattered, it was just them and the overwhelming feelings they shared for one another. Finally, exhausted, they lay quietly on top of the bed, gazing at each other in silence. There was no need for words; their eyes and faces expressed all they needed to say. Then, as if by unspoken agreement, they exchanged several more lingering kisses and curled up together, locked in a never-ending embrace. Exhausted by their union and utterly relaxed, they fell asleep in seconds.
Luis slowly came round. He couldn’t tell if minutes or hours had gone by. He was surrounded by darkness, unable to see anything. Fear began to rise up in his chest. Was he back in one of his horrendous dreams? He couldn’t see the light ahead, or the staircase. Stretching out his hands, he fumbled around to see what he could find. His hand immediately brushed against Eva’s back; she was sleeping peacefully at his side. He wasn’t dreaming. He had simply woken up and was at home in bed with the most amazing woman in the world. Luis lay back down again and draped his arm over Eva’s body. She clasped his hand and brought it up to her chest.
“Don’t ever leave me, Luisito…. I know you’ll always be there to protect me…” she murmured, half asleep.
Luis smiled with joy. He had never felt so full and complete as he did at that moment. All his feelings of foreboding had vanished; calm invaded his mind. He closed his eyes, hoping to fall back to sleep, enjoying the sensation of peace and tranquillity. Something told him that with Eva by his side, he would never be tormented by agonising dreams again. He would never forget what had just happened. He could finally say that his life was perfect. He had everything he had ever dreamed of. His final thought before lethargy stole him back to sleep was that this was the start to a new stage in his life. He would never again have anything to fear and would always do his utmost for those he loved. Losing what he had now wasn’t an option. He wasn’t even prepared to contemplate it; he doubted he would ever recover. Nothing was going to spoil this moment, this happiness. And all with her… Giving up all resistance, he drifted off into sweet, gratifying dreams.
Meanwhile, life outside carried on as normal for the inhabitants of the planet called Earth. Prisoners of their hectic lifestyles. Witnesses as new lives sparked into being and others were quietly extinguished. All under the watchful gaze of the firmament, unaware of the lights and shadows that were advancing across it, drawing inexorably closer.