Cast of Characters

Howard arrives at Bridget's home on HIP 14101 in January 2216, nervous about their in-person reunion. He steps out of the cargo bay and approaches Bridget on her porch, and they greet each other warmly.

Howard has been hesitating inside the cargo bay, overcome with anxiety similar to stage-fright. After only three seconds of delay, he orders the door open and walks out. Bridget is waiting on her porch and greets him with a smile and wave. As Howard approaches through the cool evening air, he is acutely aware of every sensation transmitted through Manny—the breeze, the uneven walkway, his clothing. The distance between them seems to close like falling into a gravity well. He climbs the two wooden steps to the porch, holds out his hands to her, and they make contact. Bridget comments that he's looking good, and Howard responds warmly that it's nice to see her again. Howard observes that Bridget is now physically 57 years old, with gray hair and crow's feet, but finds himself indifferent to these signs of aging.