The story revolves around a young woman who has been living alone on a remote planet after her husband's death. She receives a message that he will be returning to Earth and she must prepare for his arrival. As the day of his return approaches, she becomes increasingly anxious and isolated, struggling with the prospect of confronting her past and the reality of their relationship. The narrative explores themes of loneliness, grief, and the complexities of human relationships through the woman's inner monologue and interactions with the planet's environment. The story builds towards a climactic confrontation that challenges the woman's perceptions of herself and her husband. Throughout the narrative, the author employs a unique blend of science fiction and psychological realism to create a sense of unease and tension, raising questions about the nature of identity, memory, and human connection in the face of loss and isolation.
By Kris Neville · First published 1958 · Genre: Science Fiction, Drama, Romance