Page 61 of Prospecting

“Seems only fair,” Cade said. “I’m eating everything you cook. You spoiled me downstairs.”

“Now if only you could get him to organize stuff,” Calli said.

“Sheridan does all that,” Cade said.

“What are you doing with all the rooms,” Calli asked.

“One will be an office,” Sheridan said. “I need a place to do all my work.”

“We’re looking at computers for her while we’re traveling,” Cade said.

“The other three bedrooms,” Calli said.

“Storage for now,” Cade said.

“How soon,” Calli asked.

“We plan to enjoy our year,” Sheridan said. “Next year.”

“Lipt is really happy with the deal she made with you,” Calli said. “I’ve got a contract for you.”

“Good,” Sheridan said. “I’ll look it over and let Lipt and Henr know.”

“Lipt is the prospector,” Calli said. “What will Henr’s contribution be?”

“You mean aside from ravishing Lipt,” Cade asked.

“He’ll assist with the prospecting but he’s going to document, cook. He’s also got medical training,” Sheridan said. “They complement each other for skills. It’s one of the reasons I chose this route rather than selling the ship.”

“Starting a fleet,” Calli asked.

“Maybe,” Sheridan said looking at Cade.

“I’ve got two small ships we’re overhauling,” Calli said. “Interested in more employees?”

Sheridan looked at Cade who shrugged. “Depends on the cost,” she said.

“Of course it does,” Calli said. “Want to walk through them?”

Sheridan started to say no but Cade said, “We’ll walk through. We’re still taking the year, Calli. If we take them, you’ll have to work with Sheridan remotely.”

“Are you going to be in regular contact,” Calli said. “Your mother seems to think you’re falling into a void.”

“We’ll be available for certain things,” Cade said.

“Don’t tell …” Sheridan stopped speaking and leaned into Cade.

“Business purposes,” Calli said. “Let’s look.”

***

“It’s about time,” Hazel said, wrapping her robe around her. “I was on my way to bed.”

“Don’t be surly,” Louis said hugging both Cade and Sheridan. “When do you leave?”

“Midday tomorrow,” Sheridan said. “We’re getting supplies and heading out.”

“Good for you,” Louis said.

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