“Could you lower the lights?” he asked.
“Yes.”
Looking at her expectantly, he saw she returned the expression. “I didn’t want to say anything until I had verified it, but Jules believes the Vancurelian fighter that fired on us has crashed about five kilometers from here. If they survived, I don’t want Athena to be a beacon in the night.”
“Ten percent,” she spoke, and the lights dimmed. “Don’t think that keeping things from me is protecting me. I’ve been protected my entire life, and you forget that I can read your energy, and if I choose to, your thoughts as well. I’m quite capable of handling any situation that arises. You must be honest with me.” She held his gaze, imploring him to understand her request.
Gage silently applauded her for knowing herself well and telling him what she w
