In a futuristic setting, a wealthy uranium merchant named Negu Mah enjoys a tranquil moment in his garden with his Venusian guest, Sliss. His wife, Nanlo, is discontent despite her luxurious life, feeling trapped in her marriage. She had initially married Negu Mah to escape poverty and secure a better future for her family, but over time, her resentment has grown due to his unwavering kindness and control over her freedom. Nanlo secretly plans to escape with her lover, Hugh Neils, a young engineer working for Negu Mah. They intend to steal Negu Mah's cargo rocket, the Vulcan, and flee to start a new life together. As they prepare for their departure, Negu Mah reflects on his wife's unhappiness and his own failure to understand her desires. He believes that if she had been honest about wanting freedom, he would have granted it. Negu Mah observes Nanlo and Hugh's clandestine meeting from a distance, realizing their intentions. Despite feeling betrayed, he decides to let them go, believing that their love may transform them and give them the strength they lack. He has secretly equipped the Vulcan with a device that will lock its course toward Proxima Centauri, ensuring that they will be unable to return to Earth for twenty years. As the Vulcan launches into space, Negu Mah contemplates the consequences of their actions. He acknowledges that they will have what they sought—each other for eternity—while also recognizing the potential for their love to evolve during their journey. The story concludes with the ship disappearing into the vastness of space, leaving the characters to face the unknown future that awaits them.
By Robert Arthur · First published 1964 · Genre: Science Fiction, Romance, Drama