Since leaving Remy’s quarters earlier that day, Alita had made certain to be in motion because if she stopped to think for too long, she would start overthinking the night before, which was something she didn’t want to do. She had definitely gone to Remy’s bed of her own free will and would definitely do so again but, sometimes, other thoughts intruded.

Diaz cast an accusing glance as Alita had entered the office that morning. The ship was too damned small. The rest of the day had gone by in a blur. Now it was late evening and Alita lay stretched on her couch exhausted from work and a session on the holodeck. Shifting, she realized she had pulled a hamstring and would probably have to take it easy for a few days. Glancing around, she also realized the cart with all those delectable left overs was in Remy’s quarters. The thought of having the replicator do anything for her at this point was terribly disheartening.

• Alita