"It must depend on where someone is from. If you're just getting started, I imagine it costs a lot more. And those are powered by fossil fuels, right? Our ships use renewable energy." She won't press the issue, though. A man has his pride. But she hopes Josh gets to travel in space at some point.

He doesn't need to fill in the punchline. She's witnessed firsthand what happens when someone feels like they can't go on. "I still think it's very brave," she insists. You're not getting out of her compliment so easily, Josh. "The Nexus is... it's wonderful, truly, but it can be intimidating, too.

She looks down at her empty plate, and then at his. "I think I'm going to get a few more things. Do you want anything while I'm up, or are you all set?"