*Backstory* Flight from Titan: Part 3

When: 2104
The cruiser, the deep-space equivalent of an aircraft carrier, moved
silently towards the unsuspecting pirates. It was, for most of the crew
and all of the pilots aboard her, their first mission – a routine mop-up.
But this time, the pirates knew they were there.
“First wing, prepare for deployment.” Half a dozen pilots climbed into
their fighters as technicians completed systems checks, and announced
their readiness. “You will be careful, won’t you?” Jessie appealed to the
pilot of the ship she had insisted on checking herself. Nick winked at
her. “Don’t worry, Birdie, I’ll keep myself in one piece for you.”
“Would all personnel please clear landing bay one.”
With a shy smile, Nick quickly pushed a small box into her hand. “You
know what the question is,” he murmured. Jessie kissed him, whispering
into his ear, “And you know the answer.” She would have said more, but
was interrupted by the PA. “Repeat, all personnel clear landing bay one.”
“Good luck!” Jessie called, hastily moving towards the bulkhead. As she
looked back, Nick blew a kiss towards her, through the viewscreen. It was
to be the last she would ever see of him.
<to be continued in Part 4...>