"Nonsense, Aisu! No one could've been expected to think straight in your circumstances!"
"I'm not just anyone. I haven't been for sixty years. I serve the people and I've let them down. I abused their confidence in me." He rose, gesturing expansively.
Ysilvalov rose, following him as he paced.
He turned, finding her behind him; arms crossed angrily over her chest. He stopped in surprise.
"I am ashamed of you, Aisu." She glared at him.
"Of me? Why?"
"You're indulging in self-recrimination and doubt. You don't have the luxury. Instead of berating yourself, you should take action. Where is the Aisu who is calm, decisive, in charge? Did I leave him behind at Shakazhan? If so, I'll commandeer Hecate and go back for him! This other Aisulov isn't the man I respect and love!"
"Perhaps this one is the real me. Perhaps the old one died with my family and my world!"
"That's ridiculous! I saw how you handled the crowd the day we returned. Didn't you see how they love you, respect you and look to you for guidance? I've watched you daily as you put the pieces of this galaxy back together with one hand and help me plan our wedding with the other." Her eyes grew tender. "I know this Aisu isn't the one who has served the people so long. Could a coward have squashed the Rebellion of Trivolia? Could an indecisive man have successfully mediated the strike at Huber Mines? Could a man who wasn't fit to hold this office..."
Aisulov held up his hand, laughing gently. "Enough, Silva, enough! Your point is made!"
Taking the lapels of his jacket softly in her hands, she drew near him. "Could a man not fit to hold this office hold my heart?"
© 2017 Dellani Oakes
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