“I must get our belongings off the ship before it departs. Prudence is already packing up as we speak. She’s delighted for the opportunity to visit her family, of course. However, we are all stranded here on the Earth colony now.”
“We are?”
“This trip was bought and paid for by the FitzOsberns. I don’t expect they will want to fund our return journey to Alpha-Prime now that I’ve spoken my mind.”
“For which I’m very grateful.”
Her mother sniffed and looked uncomfortable. “I’m only after your best interests, Alexandria.”
“I know.”
Cam wasn’t quite ready to celebrate. The shocking turn of events made a future with Ria more than possible, but not guaranteed. He expected her mother would have a say in whether he remained in her life. He couldn’t imagine the Governess would want to remain on a colony planet for very long. The moment she secured funds to return to Alpha-Prime, she’d likely kidnap Ria and head back pronto.
From behind him, a familiar voice piped up, “Hey, Cam, did you miss me?”
He turned and stared down at Aunt Dixie and her cohort in crime, Miss Penny.
“I suspect you know I was pretty busy away from the truck stop and the way station,” he said.
The elderly woman beamed. “Well, I figured that. At least I hoped so, anyway.”
For the first time in recent memory, Cam relaxed as he faced a conversation with his wacky and unpredictable aunt. “Didyouhave a good trip?” Given her jubilant expression, he suspected she had.
“It was dandy. Those luxury cruise lines sure know how to treat their guests.”
Aunt Dixie saw Ria’s mother watching and waggled her fingers in a wave. “Well, hello there. How are you?”
The Governess’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. “I’m sorry. Have we met?”
Miss Penny leaned in and whispered something in Aunt Dixie’s ear. “Right. I forgot.” She stuck out her hand. “My name is Dixie Lou Grey. This here is my best friend, Miss Penny.”
“Charmed to meet you,” the Governess said, looking only slightly uncomfortable.
“Say, have you ever considered living on Earth?”
Ria’s mother managed to look only slightly horrified. “Earth?”
“Let me tell you about the old folks’ home here in Alienn. It’s the best place to live for us girls getting up in years. You know what I mean, honey.” Aunt Dixie poked Ria’s mother in the ribs. “Say, you look pretty good, though.” Aunt Dixie studied her face carefully, as though inspecting it for flaws. “Have you had some work done?”
“Work? Done?” Ria’s mother sounded genuinely puzzled.
“You know, like a little nip and tuck, a bit of plastic surgery.” Aunt Dixie squinted at her hairline. “Whoever your doctor is, he’s marvelous.”
“I beg your pardon.”
“Oh, no worries, you’re excused.” Aunt Dixie looped her arm through Ruth Latham Borne’s and pulled her away from Cam and Ria. “Say, how do you feel about fundraisers?”
Ria put a hand over her mouth as a giggle escaped.
“What’s so funny?” Cam asked.
“I love your aunt Dixie. It definitely was her who came to your door that morning after the night at the karaoke bar. I can totally believe she talked Prudence into going along with her plan to swap places.”
“She’s the wiliest woman I know.” The emotion Cam usually associated with Aunt Dixie was irritation, closely followed by exasperation. Now, he felt only pride and gratitude. His aunt had done him a huge favor. He’d have to return the gesture with a huge IOU. He only hoped he wouldn’t end up buck naked in a calendar to benefit the old folks’ home.
“Do you think she could talk my mother into staying here?”
“Are you kidding? She could sell overpriced sand to a desert dweller.”
