35 Plan A, B, and C

Emma opened her cellphone and tried to research on the internet about what Haoran was saying just now. Moon bounce? What's that?

The girl furrowed her brows as she read carefully what she found online.

"Maybe this will work," Emma murmured softly. "So, Moon Bounce is usually done as a hobby by people who like sending radio waves to the Moon, and the Moon's surface reflecting the waves back, but it's actually a one-way communication. It's like people playing squash with the wall. But, if we consistently sent radio messages to these specific coordinates on the Moon, maybe whoever was in there will begin to pay attention and reply to us. And this way, we'll not attract other people's attention because many people do Moon Bounce activities for fun."

Haoran looked at Emma with an enthusiastic expression. "You're right! But just in case, we should send radio messages to two other different coordinates on the Moon at the same time. We can find random locations on the Moon and use their selenographic coordinates as decoys. Others will think we're just doing an experiment."

"That's a good idea." Emma continued reading more details online about Moon Bounce and narrowed her eyes. She made rough calculations and plans in her head and said, "We can only do this at particular times when the angle and position are ideal for us to bounce radio waves to those specific coordinates consistently. Maybe we'll have to stay up really late, or we can only do it on weekends."

"That's right. Still, it'll be fun, I'm sure. We can have a slumber party at my home and do it." Haoran looked very excited at the possibility. "I can build the antenna and get all the equipment needed for the project!"

"But, what's most important is we have to check the actual location of these coordinates that my father left me," Emma added. "Otherwise, we won't be able to find the correct timing."

Over time, only 59% of the Moon's surface was visible to humans on earth, the opposite side was hidden and referred to by people as "The Far Side of the Moon" because it never faced the Earth.

Since the Moon and the Earth were both rotating in their axis, their position would change all the time. And since the Moon also orbited the Earth, they must time it properly if they wanted to send a radio message to a specific location on the Moon's surface.

The coordinates Emma's father had left might be located on the other side of the Moon, so they needed to bounce their message precisely at the right time. This was what Emma meant.

"Let's do it once we're back home. I'll find ways to get the coordinates checked and make plans," Haoran said.

"While we're trying this way, I'll also study computer science and try to understand ways to hack into satellites like Goose, in case Plan A doesn't work," Emma said, typing a reminder on her phone. "We also have to slowly gain access to SpaceLab."

Haoran nodded. "You're right. Wow, you have plans A, B, and C, apparently."

"I know," Emma said. "I wouldn't be able to do it without your help, though."

"We'll definitely need an adequate radio set and antenna. I can work on that. For computer science, there are plenty of courses or programs where you can enroll in. But for hacking... we can have Goose teach you. I can pay for her to be your mentor." Seeing Emma about to object, Haoran hurriedly added. "Let's just say I'm investing in you because you're a genius. Later, when you're good at it, you can help me do lots of things. So this isn't free aid. It's an investment on my side. Remember, I want to be a businessman like my father."

It was only after that, reluctantly Emma nodded and smiled faintly. "In that case, I'll accept it."

"Good, I'll slowly get access to SpaceLab with my father's position, but we need time. I don't want to make my father suspicious if I don't play it smoothly. I'll show him I'm very interested in the space program by doing the Moon Bounce project. Later, after I graduated from high school, I'll start following my father and be his intern to gain his trust. Slowly, I'll pave my way there."

"Ah... that's right," Emma nodded. "But first, we have to put you in Class 3A, then you have to maintain your good grades to enter a top university."

"My father will like you," Haoran said suddenly with a big smile. "He'll think you changed me. Like I now finally have a purpose in life."

Emma nodded. "Don't worry. I won't tell your father that your life's goal is to get rid of him. I'll be your cover. We'll let him think you changed for me."

"Thank you," Haoran said quietly. His lips curved up in a thin smile. He liked how Emma understood him so well now.

The two stared at each other for a few moments with knowing smiles. Haoran had long decided to take revenge and destroy his father by turning himself around, so he could inherit his father's wealth and business. Then, once everything was in his hands, he'd get rid of his father and the wife whom Haoran deeply hated.

In order to do that, he needed to study hard and get his life together first. He had to be patient and wait until he got enough power and influence. Haoran had even made plans for the next six years. His goal was to snatch everything from his father by the time he was 25.

Meanwhile, Emma had her own goal to find her parents. She knew that she had to be careful in her search. Emma couldn't let their existence be known by people from Earth.

She had to be patient and do things properly for it would take some time before she could find them. Emma had waited for thirteen years. She could certainly wait for a few more.

Emma was grateful that she met Haoran at the right time and place. They had different goals, but their objectives, just like their paths, crossed.

Since Haoran was very kind to her, Emma decided to trust him and let him be on her team to find her parents.

"I'm glad we have an agreement," Emma said. "Thank you for all your help."

"The pleasure is mine, Stardust," Haoran said. "Actually, ever since I met you, my life has become more exciting! So, Thank YOU!"

Emma nodded. After writing down more notes on her cellphone, she then excused herself. "I'll be sleeping now. See you tomorrow morning."

Haoran checked at his watch and gasped in surprise. "It's already 2 AM. Why don't you just sleep here?"

"Gosh, Haoran, how far do you think my room is? I'll just take the elevator down," Emma scowled, hitting his shoulder.

Haoran laughed and stood up to open the door for Emma.

"I'm just kidding," said Haoran.

Emma frowned and walked toward the elevator.

"See you tomorrow," Emma said, waving.

"Good night, Stardust."