I am not sure this one is done. I have just come to a reasonable stoppiing point
Freezing rain pinging the windows. Sheets soaked. Triage.
Enough, Colonel. Shower, shave.
Downstairs to the pit. Fire lit, books stacked.
Coffee or tea?
Rooibos.
Unlock the front door.
The Shining. No.
The Martian. Yes.
Sit. Read.
The door cracks open.
"Are you open?"
"Yes."
"Can I come in?"
"Hang your coat, Captain."
"I need to eat."
"The kitchen is open. Fix what you like."
"What will I owe?"
“Captain, the kitchen is on your left. Fix what you like."
The coffee perks. The refrigerator door shuts.
Selects Project Hail Mary.
Turns the chair to face the door.
Pages turn.
The coffee grows cold.
Chair returned.
"I have obligations."
"I'll bookmark your place."
The hook is bare.