Sammel was surprised at first at the notion of Minnesota using him as a pillow, but he found he rather liked the idea after he got used to it. He knew he should be sleeping as well, but he just wasn't tired. Besides, he wanted to savor the moment, especially after she thanked him for his help.
For the first time in his life, Sammel didn't feel like a screw up.
Minnesota turned a little, a deep breath escaping her as she settled further into sleep. Sammel shifted beside her to make it more comfortable and felt the twinge in his side. This time it felt old and deep, but no longer confined to one spot. Like the area was spreading. He remembered the encounter in the engine room of the Day Wanderer and wondered what the close contact with the alien had done to him.
Sammel forced down a surge of anxiety and freed himself gently from Minnesota before leaving her. He gave in to the truth at last, the truth he'd been avoiding.
He had to find out what was wrong with him.
***