Page 13 of Desperate Measures

“You not only taught on Haven. You led the education board.”

“For a small region, Stacy. A single district. This is an entire planet.” And I was happy to let that job go.

Her career in education had been a placeholder until she’d figured out just what she wished to do for the rest of her life. Toni had never considered it her calling. She wasn’t quite sure how she’d ended up with over a decade of teaching under her belt.

“You spearheaded several enhancements that ended up being implemented on the whole colony. You set up a fast track for gifted students, as well as an intensive training college for educators who teach the intellectually disabled. Test scores doubled in most of Haven’s regions once your global learning initiative was put in place.” Kuran finished his recitation by bowing in respect.

As much as Toni preferred to downplay her achievements, she couldn’t. Despite the supposed temporary nature of her job, she’d worked too damn hard to accomplish what she had for Haven’s children.

“Your education committee head might be unhappy to be replaced,” she protested.

“He’s stepping down due to health issues. No one else on the committee is vying for his job…so they certainly won’t apply to run an entire department.” Stacy smirked.

“Boy, you have an answer to everything, don’t you?”

“I knew you’d resist. If I didn’t think you could do it, I wouldn’t ask.”

“Sounds more like you’re insisting,” Toni groused, but her heart warmed to have Stacy’s approval, if not the ball and chain she was fitting to her ankle.

She needs me, and I haven’t decided where my future lies. What else am I going to do?

Putting aside her uncertainty, Toni asked, “How close are you to maxing out your current school facilities and supplies?”

“Currently, we’re ready for the next five scheduled transports of new residents.”

“Which doesn’t come close to what you’ll actually require as these refugees pour in.”

Stacy shrugged, but she grimaced. “I’ll sign off on whatever funding you need. Buildings, curriculum, supplies…the legislature has already earmarked the funds and asked our allies for additional support.”

Toni glanced at Kuran. “Earth’s digging in the empire’s wallet again?”

He grinned. “As long as the fleet continues to pay me, you can have Kalquor’s treasury for all I care.”

“Fine. I suppose you want me to start right away, your governorship?”

“You can have lunch first.” Stacy beamed.

“You’re all heart, boss.” Toni kept her tone light despite a sudden urge to cry.

Chapter Four

Stacy couldn’t help beaming after Toni left. She bragged to Kuran, “She’ll amaze everyone here.”

“Her record on Haven speaks for itself. I’m surprised they haven’t shown up to kidnap her and force her back.”

“Her com’s been buzzing nonstop since she resigned. They’re begging her to reconsider and offering a promotion and raise in salary. Now she’s ours.” Stacy rubbed her hands and cackled in villainous glee.

“You’d better keep her happy so she doesn’t run off.” Kuran’s amused smile faded. “Speaking of which, I guess this is my official goodbye.”

Stacy’s heart gave a lurch, though in truth, Kuran wasn’t going anywhere. He’d continue to spend most of his work hours on Earth II in order to spy on those hostile to its government…and to guard Stacy, whom the Earthtiques had targeted more than once. However, he’d be phased, and she wouldn’t be able to acknowledge his presence.

“Maybe I’ll lose the election. Then we can clan, and I’ll live on Alpha Space Station,” she said.

“As much as I’d love our relationship to be registered, I’m pretty sure you’ll remain governor for the foreseeable future.”

“It’s a tight race. The legislature’s vote to toss Ken out as lieutenant governor after his child bride scandal has actually bolstered his numbers.” Stacy shook her head in disbelief, but Ken Bryant’s excuse he’d married a close friend’s teenage daughter to save her from the sick intentions of the original Earth’s leader had found sympathy…and support.

“When are you signing off on his expulsion?”

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