Moon Hoax

24 GOODBYE

Both Peter and Viktor were strapped in the Galileo ready to complete the plugs-out test they were unable to do the day before. Fortunately, the computer wizards fixed the problem. Peter hoped all systems would check out during this final test so they could launch Thursday as planned. After two hours of lying on their back, everything seemed to be going fine. They were reaching the end of the test, the nine-minute mark of the countdown. This would be the final hold point, expected to be a ten-minute hold on launch day, allowing Bud to complete status checks with his control room personnel before proceeding with the countdown.

According to the checklist hanging above the control panel, at the eleven-minute mark Peter needed to adjust the final switch settings for the stabilization and control system. Peter listened to the countdown in his helmet and timed the switches perfectly.

“This is Kennedy Launch Control. We’ve passed the eleven-minute mark. T-minus 10 minutes, 55 seconds and counting,” said the spacecraft test conductor, Floyd Keller.

Viktor monitored the computer screen in front of him making sure all systems were “Go.” At the ten-minute mark, Galileo’s onboard computers and backup flight systems changed to launch configuration, signaling the test was nearing its end.

Peter radioed in, “Kennedy, this is Galileo and all systems are go.”

Floyd radioed back, “Roger, Galileo. All is looking good in the control room as well. Approaching the nine-minute mark; T-minus 9 minutes, 25 seconds and counting.”

Both Peter and Viktor did a final check of their monitors as they would on launch day, making sure everything was going to plan.

“T-minus 9 minutes, 0 seconds. Countdown is put on its final planned hold at the nine-minute mark.” There was a silence over the radio for a moment before Floyd said, “Good job gentleman, looks like the test went well. Sit tight while Bud goes through his status checks.”

Peter glanced over at Viktor and put out his gloved fist for a fist bump. “Good job, Viktor.”

Viktor had a puzzled look as he eyed Peter’s fist, obviously not knowing what to do.

Peter slowly pulled his fist back reminding himself Viktor was old school. “We need to have our own special fist bump.”

Viktor still looked confused.

“It’s like a high five,” said Peter, hoping that would help. No luck; Viktor still looked lost. Peter put his fist back out. “Viktor, ball your hand in a fist like this and tap the top of mine.”

Viktor slowly balled his hand in a fist before tapping the top of Peter’s. Peter then brought his around over Viktor’s and tapped the top of his.

“Now, we both pull our fist slightly back.” Peter demonstrated and waited for Viktor to do the same. “And then we lightly bring them together and do a light fist bump before pulling our hands back, opening them like this.” He moved his hand back in an open position. Viktor tilted his head as he was a little behind moving his hand back.

“Is this important?”

Peter smiled. “Yes, as commander I feel we need a special way of celebrating. So we will call this the Galileo fist bump.”

Peter was about to try again when Allen came on the radio. “Nice work, gentlemen. It appears everything has checked out fine. Looks like you two will be launching into space tomorrow, you lucky sons-of-bitches. We should have you two out of there shortly.”

Peter tried to do their fist bump, but Viktor screwed it up yet again. Peter shook his head, smiling as Allen continued.

“Viktor, Anya is waiting in the conference room to see you. I’ll have the van drive you when you’re ready. Peter you stay behind, I need to talk to you,” said Allen.

Both men looked at each other. Viktor’s open mouth and large eyes meant he knew nothing about a visit from Anya. Peter’s heart began to race as Viktor answered, “Roger.”

Peter clicked off their microphones. “Did you know she was coming out?”

Shaking his head with a concerned look, Viktor said, “Nyet.”

Peter was both happy and surprised. He wondered if she had learned the outcome of the mission and if that was why she was here—to see her dad for the last time. “Any idea if she found out it’s a suicide mission?”

“I hope no. I not want her know this.” Viktor settled his helmet on the empty seat next to him, staring straight ahead.

Peter gazed out the rocket’s window in front of him, wondering why she was here. She apparently asked to see only Viktor. Did she not want to see him? Jealousy gnawed his insides, and guilt that he had no right to feel envy. Since arriving at Kennedy he was never able to get her completely out of his mind, always wishing he’d told her his true feelings. Those last images of her upset festered in his head, reminding him constantly how hurt and distraught she was. Every time the image of her tear-streaked and accusing face crossed his mind, he questioned if he did the right thing. Fortunately, he had been able to suppress most of his guilt and hurt since arriving at Kennedy, allowing him to focus on the task at hand. But now she was here. I have to see her! But would that be right? What would I say? Will she even see me? Questions mixed with heart sore emotions poured through him; he couldn’t believe all this was happening less than twenty-four hours before launch.

Viktor asked, “When I see Anya, if she wants to see you, do you see her?”

Peter didn’t know what to say. He thought for a moment. Opening his heart to Viktor he said, “I do want to see her. I would love to tell her how I feel, but I don’t want to hurt her anymore. What do you think I should do?”

Viktor looked out the window for a moment. “Let me see her. Find out why she here. I do what best.”

Peter wasn’t sure what that meant, but he trusted Viktor as her father to do the right thing. He so hoped to see her one last time.

VIKTOR ENTERED THE CONFERENCE ROOM dressed in his flight suit. Sitting alone at the conference table was Anya. She had been crying; her eyes were puffy. He assumed she must have found out the operation was a suicide mission. Anya immediately jumped up from her chair and ran to him, arms extended. He set his helmet on the table before putting out his arms as she approached, both hugging tightly. Nothing was said for a moment; this would be one of their final embraces. Hearing his daughter start to cry brought a tear to the stalwart cosmonaut. For this moment he was only her father.

Anya was the first to speak. She said in Russian, “Why didn’t you tell me you were going to die on this mission?”

Assuming she must have found out from Dmitri, Viktor first gave his daughter a squeeze before answering in Russian. “I didn’t want to hurt you, dear. I thought it would be best keeping this information from you. I also felt you might try to talk me out of it, and I am doing this for Tom Novak. I am repaying on a long overdue debt.”

“With your life?” Anya pulled slightly away, tears in her eyes. Wiping her eyes with her shirt sleeve she said, “Dad, I know you miss Mom. So do I.” She looked down for a moment. “I guess I understand why you’re doing this. It’s just hard for me, losing you so soon after losing Mom.” A slight smile came to her face as she looked back at him. “Dad, I haven’t seen you this happy since she died. I know you have always dreamt of going to the moon. And knowing you are helping restore Mr. Novak’s legacy, I wouldn’t have taken this from you.”

Viktor pulled his daughter back to him, hugging her tightly and crying. “Anya, I love you so much. I was wrong not telling you. Please forgive me.”

“Daddy, I’m just happy to be able to tell you how much you mean to me and how much I love you. Because of you, I grew up to be a confident and happy woman. You are a great father. I never would have forgiven myself if I didn’t get the chance to tell you before you left me.”

Viktor kissed his daughter on her forehead as they hugged in silence.

PETER HAD STAYED BACK at the launch pad per Allen’s request. Eventually Allen drove up in a SpaceQuest truck from the launch control building. He quickly got out and approached Peter, who stood by the rocket holding his helmet.

Allen extended his hand. “Are you excited about tomorrow?”

Peter shook Allen’s hand and calmly answered, “I’m confident and, yes, excited.”

Allen looked up at the Newton 9 next to them. “I’m jealous. I wish I was flying her.”

Peter smiled.

Allen, with a serious look, asked, “Peter, Doug wants to be sure you’ll be able to disengage the laser. If there is any chance this can’t happen, he wants the mission called off. The White House is being pressured by the UN Security Council, and we cannot afford to cross the council if the mission fails. It will put the president in a difficult position with both the UN and China, hurting America’s reputation even more in the world.”

Peter smirked. “I’m positive the factory codes were never changed, and I know the procedure of changing them within the required time. Remember when I told you the mission had an 80 percent chance of success?”

Allen nodded.

“It’s better than 90 percent now. You tell Doug not to worry. We’ll get him those pictures!”

Allen patted Peter on the back. “I figured you would say that, but wanted to hear it for myself. I’ll let Doug know.”

Peter blurted, “Do you know why Anya’s here?”

“Nope. I thought maybe Viktor called her out.”

Peter put his head down and sighed in frustration.

“So what’s the deal with you two?”

Peter never told Allen what happened in Texas. They weren’t friends; he had no reason to. Allen’s only concern was a successful mission, and that required Peter to be focused and on point with the assignment. He looked up again. “We broke up. I felt it was best considering how the mission was going to end.”

Allen crossed his arms. “Peter, you need to make sure you’re prepared and focused tomorrow. I do not want any distractions.”

“There won’t be. You don’t have to worry about me. I’ll be 100 percent ready.”

Allen studied Peter for a moment. “Maybe you should go see her. Work out your differences. I want to make sure your head is clear tomorrow.”

Peter stood straighter. “You’re right, I should see her. I promised Viktor I would let him talk with her first and decide if I should. But I have to see her, if only as a friend.”

Allen signaled for Peter to follow him to his truck. “Come on. I’ll drive you there.”

ANYA SURPRISED HERSELF how well she was able to keep composed as her dad discussed his estate and wishes for his funeral. She held her father’s hand at the conference table during most of the conversation. When he was done, she was happy to hear him ask, “Did you want to see Peter?”

Of course she did, but did Peter? Especially considering he broke up with her. “Does he want to see me?”

Viktor patted her hand. “He does. In fact he just told me so. He stated how difficult it was breaking up and how he did it for you. I know he would love to see you, especially since you now know the final outcome of the mission.”

Anya smiled, feeling she did the right thing coming. “I would love to see him!”

“I’m so sorry you two are meeting under these circumstances. Peter is a good man.” Viktor got up from his chair. “Well, he’ll be here soon. Why don’t you go to the ladies room and freshen up?”

Anya touched her hair and one cheek; she must look like a wreck from all the crying. She got up and hugged her dad. “I love you so much, Daddy.”

“I love you too, dear.” He escorted her down the hallway to the ladies restroom.

ANYA CAME OUT OF THE RESTROOM feeling much better and refreshed, excited to see Peter. As she started to walk down the empty hallway back to the conference room, the door at the other end opened slowly. Bright sunlight came shining through, preventing Anya from being able to see who was coming in. From the silhouette she could tell it was a man carrying a helmet. The man suddenly stopped, Anya doing the same. The door slowly closed behind him and as the sunlight disappeared, she saw the man was Peter, looking as handsome as ever. Both stood still for a moment. Anya wasn’t sure what she should do. After a long motionless beat, she couldn’t take it any longer and started running toward him. She extended her arms wide open. Peter dropped his helmet with a loud thud, echoing throughout the hallway, as he extended his arms. He picked her up and twirled her around, neither of them saying a word. Anya never felt so good in her life. This was what she wanted.

Anya broke the silence. “Peter Novak, I love you!”

Peter pulled his head back and looked into her eyes. “Anya Alexandrov, I love you too!” He gently set her down and they shared a long passionate kiss.

VIKTOR SAT ACROSS from both Peter and Anya during their last dinner together in SpaceQuest’s cafeteria. It was an emotional dinner filled with tears and smiles. Unfortunately Anya could not stay on the base. When Viktor asked Allen, the CEO made it clear she could hang around for dinner, but would have to leave afterward as well as watch lift-off from Launch Control. She would stay at a local Cocoa Beach hotel, which would transport her to Launch Control the following day. Fortunately, Allen did give the okay for one of the men to drive her back to the hotel. Watching the two during dinner, Viktor decided it should be Peter.

After dinner, Viktor escorted the couple out to the truck. As the sun set, a slight chill filled the air. He wrapped his arm around his daughter, keeping her warm. It was a solemn walk for a father, the last with his daughter.

Peter flung Anya’s luggage into the truck bed. Before getting inside, he leaned over to Viktor’s ear, whispering, “No matter what, I’ll be at Dr. Johnson’s office tomorrow by 7:00 a.m.”

Missing the night’s quarantine was taking a gamble of the mission being scrubbed. But being checked in by 7:00 a.m. for their pre-launch medical tests was critical. Viktor winked at Peter. “I cover for you.”

Viktor walked his daughter to the passenger side and opened the door. Anya hugged him one last time, tears shining in her eyes. Viktor hated saying goodbye to his daughter. Neither said a word.

Finally Anya broke the silence saying how much she loved him in their native language. “Ya budu vsegda lyubit tebya.”

Viktor squeezed, telling her the same. “Ya tebya lyublyu.”

Anya pulled away, wiping the tears from her face. “Tell Mom I miss her and how much I love her.”

The notion brought both a tear and a smile to Viktor. She was releasing him, accepting what was going to happen, knowing he would be in a better place with her mother. Pulling her close for the last time he answered, “I will, and I give her hug for you.”

Anya smiled slightly as she pulled away and climbed into the truck. Viktor gently closed the door behind her. With his hands on the door, he met her gaze through the window. She put her hand on it, wanting to touch him. He put his over hers, only the cool glass separating them. Peter started the truck and Viktor slowly pulled his hand away, stepping back, staring intently at his daughter with a forced smile. Anya blew him one last kiss as the truck gradually pulled away. He pretended to catch it and put his hand to his face, placing her kiss there. He saw her smile as they drove away.

PETER STARED UP AT THE CEILING as Anya’s warm body clung tightly to his, her head resting comfortably on his chest. Peter hadn’t been sure if he would be in this position when he checked her into the hotel; it hadn’t been discussed. Allen would have disapproved, wanting his astronaut safe on the base focusing on the morning launch. When she asked him to stay, he felt one last evening with her would invigorate his body and soul, allowing him to focus and function better on the mission. Since that was one of Allen’s concerns, he said “Yes” guilt-free.

With his arm wrapped around her, he finally grasped the meaning of true love. He felt blessed to have these last moments with her, connected and free for the mission. Relaxed in body, his mind began reviewing the procedures of the operation. He couldn’t believe he would be launching into space for the first time in less than eighteen hours. A surprising calmness settled over his body. He attributed the tranquility to Anya lying next to him, and releasing his true feelings, confessing them to her. She was now a part of him, in his heart, comforting him throughout the dangerous journey ahead.

One portion of the mission had never specifically been discussed—the ending. What would he and Viktor do once they completed their tasks? He assumed they might have a few days, possibly as much as a week orbiting the moon before consumables, fuel, or power ran out. What would they do during that time? With Anya back in his life, he had hoped to have a number of conversations with her in those last days and hours. The radio wouldn’t be private, but he could maintain their connection.

Peter stroked her hair. “I hope you’re back in Russia when we reach the moon. I would love to be able to talk with you while in orbit, especially when our tasks are done. I’m sure your dad would want the same.”

She gazed up at him. “Don’t worry. I plan on catching a flight tomorrow after launch. I’m sure Dmitri will get me into Mission Control after you two hijack the Soyuz.”

Realizing he only had at most a couple of weeks left to live if all went to plan, Peter quipped, “I can honestly say I’ll love you the rest of my life.”

Anya lifted her head off his chest, slightly laughing. “I can honestly say I’ll love you forever.”

PETER SAT ACROSS FROM THE BED, dressed and ready to leave. The room dimly lit only by the reflection of the bathroom light. He quietly stared at Anya as she slept facing him. Wisps of her hair strayed across her cheek, tangled in her dark lashes. Her lips, plump and gently parted, begged for his kiss even in her sleep. She looked like an angel. Peter wanted the image burned into his memory to reflect back on easily, whenever needed. He held an envelope addressed to his mom that held letters for her and Anya. Anya’s letter was inside so she wouldn’t know about it until his mom opened hers, insuring it wasn’t opened sooner.

Peter was pleased to have gotten five hours of heavy sleep. When he awoke, he drafted the letters on the hotel’s stationery in the bathroom light. He wanted to let both women know his feelings and wishes for each.

Anya slowly opened her eyes and smiled when she saw Peter sitting across from her. He smiled back with affection. “Good morning.”

“How long have you been awake? What time is it?” she said groggily.

“I’ve been awake for about an hour or so. It’s 6:10.”

Anya frowned and grumbled. “Already? Darn it. Why didn’t you wake me?”

Peter sat next to her. Stroking her hair he said, “You looked too pretty and peaceful to wake. I enjoyed sitting and just watching.”

Her frown eased into a smile and she sat up. She caressed his cheek and kissed his lips, pulling gently with her hand as she lay back. Peter resisted the invitation with a groan.

“I wish I could crawl in there right now, but I need to leave. I want you to know last night was wonderful. It was one of the most special nights of my life.”

She grabbed his hand. “It was wonderful. A night I will cherish forever.”

Peter lifted the envelope. “This is a letter for Mom. Please hand-deliver it to her sometime after the mission is over. Maybe at my funeral?”

Anya squeezed Peter’s hand at the word “funeral,” tears welling in her eyes. “I wish you didn’t have to go. I finally find my soul mate, the man I love and adore, the man I wish to spend the rest of my life with, and he goes off and kills himself.”

Pulling her hand up and kissing it, Peter said, “I wish I didn’t have to go either. I would love to grow old and have a family together. But this is bigger than one or two lives. I have a responsibility to my country and my father. Always know I love you with all my heart.”

She launched herself into his arms, clinging to him. He hated to pull away from her, but he did. He stood, handing her the envelope.

Anya started to get out of bed, but Peter stopped her. “You stay in bed. I want my last image of you just as you are, lying in bed. There is no better picture to have in my mind, no better place I would want to be. This last image will help me get through the difficult times ahead.”

“You want your last image of me with messy hair and no makeup on? Khorosho.” She sat up, pulling the sheet up before wiping the tears from her eyes. With a forced smile she said, “Peter Novak, I will always love you!”

He leaned over and gave her one last kiss, before walking toward the door. He opened it, turned, and blew her a final kiss. She pretended to grab it out of the air, putting her hand to her face. Both took one last long look before the door was slowly closed.

ANYA WAS TOO DISTRAUGHT to get out of bed. She clung tightly to Peter’s pillow, breathing in his scent as she thought of their last moments together. She stared at the door hoping the nightmare would end and the love of her life would come crashing back in.

But he wasn’t coming back; he was gone. Her stomach twisted.

She lay in the hotel bed reliving the past month and reveling in how lucky she was to discover her one true love loved her. She would hold on to that the rest of her life. She had to accept his fate, as he did, but she was glad to have had this last night together.

Eventually she walked into the bathroom and saw written in bold letters on the mirror with her red lipstick, “I will love you for eternity!” Hanging off the light above the mirror was her half of the pendent dangling at the bottom of the necklace she’d thrown away in his mother’s garden.

She collapsed to the floor sobbing, without the strength to move.