Hours later, the Imperial doctor and his assistant leave after verifying everything with our doctor. Presumably, I am pregnant now, and neither my commander nor the doctor want me moving ever. The Imperial doctor said that I shouldn’t move for the next two days and then to take it very easy. He said to remember that it’s easy to trick the body temporarily with medicine but that the body had a pesky way of letting nature back in given the chance. It’s difficult to believe I am pregnant now. But I want a baby so much that I stay where I am.

My Commander has brought me my tablet to read the rest of the Home Planet’s classic novels, which I am enjoying for the storylines and a greater understanding of their culture. Not surprisingly, only a few are written by Silver females, but I have read those first, and so far, they are my favorite. When I told the Commander this, he was surprised, but I think I surprised him even more when I said, ‘Why is it strange that as a female, I would identify the most with a story written by a female and about a female? You know males and females live separate lives, and I don’t always want to hear about males. I know everything about males as I have to cater to you.’

I think it must be the hormones the Imperial doctor used on me. Although I may think these things from time to time, I never before dared to say them. I think my yesterday self would have said, ‘I was curious to read stories written by females.’ I don’t know if my strong opinions for equality will fade as I get into the rhythm of my pregnancy, but I was pleased to see that my Commander made no move to chastise me.

CHAPTER 34

COMMANDER

The negotiations with the Empire are going well. I cannot deny that my marriage to Volunteer 4711 has something to do with this. I always ask her to accompany me for a few minutes to say ‘hello’ when the Imperials are here. None of my crew overlooks the way they look at my wife. They see her as one of theirs. And as a woman, they cannot help but treat her with respect as their culture is matriarchal. I have told her that having a good relationship with these specific people will help determine the future of our mission.

As soon as my wife says ‘goodbye’ today and leaves the conference room, we begin the meeting. I know we are close to striking a deal. It’s in the Empire’s best interest that my fleet is stronger now as the Home Planet is striking more and more trade agreements with the Agnorrians, angering the Empire.

After a few more hours, we all agree on a solution with more weapons and ships coming my way. Had it not been for my wife, none of this would have been possible. Imperials are wary of Silvers, but they respect her.