We're in Space ... So What?

Chapter 24: Two's an Alex, Three's a Crowd

As Angelia continued working on the ship's repairs, the rhythmic clanging of her tools filled the otherwise quiet ship. She glanced up when she heard footsteps approaching, half expecting Judah or Jamie, but to her surprise, it was Alex again, his hands shoved into the pockets of his worn-out jacket.

"Hey," he greeted with an awkward smile, not sure if he was welcome.

Angelia raised an eyebrow but didn't seem as irritated as the others had been. She put down her tools, wiping her hands on a rag. "You're back," she said, her tone neutral.

Alex shrugged, a sheepish grin on his face. "Yeah, couldn't help it. This ship... you guys... it's all so different. I've never seen anything like it. I mean, I've been on this frozen rock my whole life. I don't think I've ever even left the system."

Angelia nodded slowly, leaning against the ship's wall. "That explains why you were poking around earlier. Just curious, huh?"

"Yeah," Alex admitted. "I didn't mean any harm, just... wanted to see what it's like to be part of something bigger, you know?"

Angelia studied him for a moment, sensing his sincerity. "Well, the others don't really trust me right now, let alone some stranger who just wandered onto the ship. But," she paused, "you seem like a decent guy. I'll make a case for you."

Alex's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? You'd do that?"

"Yeah," she nodded, giving him a small smile. "But you'll have to help us first. Prove you're useful. The crew isn't big on freeloaders, and neither am I. Besides, we can't exactly stick around here. It's cold, and we've got too much heat on us from the last planet."

Alex scratched the back of his head, clearly nervous but hopeful. "I can help. I know this planet better than anyone, and I can work. Just... get me off this ice rock. My grandparents are great, but I don't want to spend the rest of my life here, y'know?"

Angelia chuckled lightly at his enthusiasm. "I get it. Let's see what the others think when they get back."

As they talked, Alex helped her with small tasks, asking questions about the ship, and Angelia explained things as she worked. He was clearly eager to learn, and she appreciated the extra pair of hands.

By the time Ryan returned from town with supplies and food, the ship was looking much more functional. He noticed Alex but didn't react too aggressively this time, probably because he saw him helping Angelia. Ryan set the bags down and looked at her. "You're letting him hang around?"

Angelia shrugged. "He's not so bad. Just wants off this planet like the rest of us. He could help."

Ryan glanced at Alex and then back at Angelia. "Well, it's not up to me. It's up to Jamie and Judah."

Alex, hopeful, turned to Ryan. "I'll do whatever it takes, man. Just give me a chance."

Ryan nodded but didn't say much, heading off to start putting things away. Alex stayed behind with Angelia, his excitement tempered by the nervous anticipation of what the others might say.

"Think they'll say yes?" Alex asked.

Angelia smirked and gave him a sideways glance. "We'll see. Just be ready to prove yourself."