Tom kept a steady, intense gaze on her. Suddenly, he began to glide with graceful, artistic movements across the ice.


<< Well, if I keep this up, I’ll become a champion! >> he said, trying out various skating moves that made A-01 laugh, completely changing the atmosphere between them.


Tom glided toward her, extending both hands straight out- a silent invitation. A-01 hesitated at first, but eventually, she placed her fingers onto his reddened palms. Tom slid backward, pulling her along onto the slippery surface of the frozen lake.


<< Have you ever danced before ? >> he asked.


<< No..>> she admitted << You? >>


<< Neither have I..>>Tom replied, beginning to move in slow circles with A-01. << So.. this would be OUR first time..>>


A-01 laughed shyly.


<< I am going to go faster! >> he warned, and increased the pace. A-01 started to enjoyed the dance, throwing her head back with exhilaration.


He slowed down, raised one of his hands high, and pulled her close with the other. Gently, he glided behind her, capturing her hand from the front and wrapped her in his arms. A-01 leaned her head back, resting it lightly against his chest. He took slow steps backward, the two of them surrendering to a dance that expressed emotions beyond words.


They moved in sync, cutting through the air. Tom raised his arms, with A-01’s fingers clinging to his. She enjoyed the moment with her eyes closed, entrusting her body entirely to him.


With a swift movement, while they glided smoothly over the ice, he turned her to face him and placed his hands on her waist, with his fingers pressing against her skin. A-01 leaned her upper body back, her white hair brushing the ice. She saw the world upside down, a view she wished she could keep in her memory forever.


Tom gently pulled her back up. Their eyes locked. They could feel each other’s breath warming their faces. Tom’s finger tightened around her waist, pulling her closer. Their bodies pressed together, and their lips were so close it felt like they were already touching. Tom’s heart pounded, threatening to leap out of his chest. He surrendered to everything around him, to the moment.. to her…


He was dancing with an alien, one he couldn’t get enough of looking at.. of touching. There was no logical explanation in his mind for this overwhelming feeling he was experiencing. An explanation… What explanation would he give to Lancer?! His face darkened instantly. The mission! What was he doing?!What had he been doing all day ?!


He pulled his face away and released A-01 from his hands. Running his fingers through his hair, he slid away from her, taking slow steps backwards.


<< Sorry.. I..I have to go..>> he said, and quickly left, leaving A-01 standing alone on the frozen lake , watching him with a gray cloud settling around her.