Chapter 53: Archer

Archer released Sun after a few moments, feeling better for having the comfort of another. Her grateful smile warmed him and helped him fight off the crippling doubt threatening only moments before to drive him to his knees.

He watched her go, back in control of himself. He knew he didn't have time to fall into the black pit of despair. Archer had a job to do, crew to protect, a ship to fly and people to rescue. The overwhelming pressure of such a tall order was exactly what sent him into his tailspin in the first place and he refused to go back there.

Instead, he focused on the present. Of all the lessons his father taught him, leaving what he couldn't change for others to worry about was the best and he latched on to it with all his might as he marched back onto the bridge.

He sat in his chair, alone with the stars, his hopes reaching out into the black.

Dad, he thought, I'm coming to get you. I swear I'll find you and rescue you. Hang on. I'm on my way.

***