WIP Wednesday - Clan Companions: Joseph

When Almon’s smiling face slid into view, Joseph realized he’d been turning in a mesmerized circle, taking in the view like a tourist. He flushed and dropped his gaze to his feet, in their shining new black boots with traction soles—a good idea in a mountainous region.

              “How does it feel?” Almon’s rumbling voice was soft, like distant ocean waves.

              “Amazing. And terrifying.” Joseph had made a promise to himself to always tell the truth, especially to Almon. If things between them were to work out, he couldn’t hide the bad stuff, no matter how afraid he was. Admitting he was scared before the imperturbable warrior was embarrassing, but necessary to keep his vow. To minimize the potential sting, he quickly added, “I’m ready. Let’s get out of here.”

              “Shuttle pad’s this way.” If Joseph’s confession of fear bothered Almon, who saw himself as the Earther’s protector, he showed none of it. They fell into step side by side, heading to the flat area that served as visitors’ shuttle parking.

              Within seconds, they reached a small craft, fairly new and compact with a cockpit sporting seating for two and a small passenger cabin that could fit another two people or a small amount of cargo. That was where Almon stored Joseph’s bin as the Earther settled in the co-pilot’s seat.

              He was fine until Almon started the shuttle’s humming engine. Almon was taking him to his home, where they would live together as a couple. All at once, Joseph slammed his hands on the armrests, gripping them in white-knuckled panic. “Wait. Just—I—wait.”

              He stared at the psychiatric center, housed in a massive cavern with its glass front twinkling from the brilliant sun, reflecting the snow-topped mountains before it. How could he leave its safety? His routine, planned out for him every day, reliable, known? Secure? 

No release date set.