The narrative follows Jeanne Peterson, the fiancée of Tom Bentley, the first man to land on the moon. As the story unfolds, Jeanne grapples with her emotions and the public's fascination with Tom's historic achievement. The initial excitement is overshadowed by her internal conflict regarding the commercialization of their relationship, particularly when approached by reporter Dan Lubrano, who proposes to exploit her newfound celebrity status for profit. Jeanne's family and friends are eager to bask in the glory of Tom's success, but Jeanne feels increasingly uncomfortable with the idea of turning her love into a public spectacle. Lubrano's plans include endorsements and media appearances, which Jeanne initially considers but ultimately rejects, fearing it would cheapen her genuine feelings for Tom. As the story progresses, Jeanne is faced with the reality of Tom's isolation on the moon and the pressure to maintain a public persona. She is invited to participate in a live broadcast to communicate with Tom, but the scripted nature of the event frustrates her. She desires an authentic connection, not a rehearsed performance for an audience of millions. In a moment of desperation, Jeanne decides to take matters into her own hands. She learns that another astronaut, Captain Curt Macomber, is being sent to the moon to assist Tom. A young woman named Mary, who is secretly pregnant with Curt's child, implores Jeanne to intervene and prevent Curt from going. This adds another layer of complexity to Jeanne's situation, as she contemplates the implications of love, duty, and sacrifice. Ultimately, Jeanne's determination leads her to sneak aboard the spacecraft intended for Curt, aiming to reunite with Tom. The story culminates in her daring decision to join him on the moon, symbolizing her rejection of societal expectations and her commitment to her true feelings. The narrative explores themes of love, identity, and the tension between personal desires and public perception, culminating in a bold act of agency as Jeanne seeks to reclaim her relationship with Tom amidst the chaos of fame and expectation.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1960 · Genre: Science Fiction, Romance, Drama