Julia sank down on the couch. If only she could see him. "Don't leave me to die."
"How strange to talk about dying," said Vassi. "We all live so long we never think about it."
"You will take me with you, Vassi?"
"If people in your time have such short lives, then why does dying trouble you? It would seem a matter of course."
"Vassi, I haven't lived yet."
"This is out of my line. I'll tell you what. When I return, I'll talk to one of the scientists. If they're interested in the project, they'll send someone back."
"How long will that be?"
"Now let's see if I can figure in your time. Hmm.... I'd say about a year...."
Julia closed her eyes. She felt dampness under the lids. Her voice was hollow as she spoke to the empty room. "I'll be dead in six months."