Hey, dont worry, I dont mind, she said huskily as she took Danas hand in her own and moved it to her lips to give it a light kiss.

Nice to meet you Dana, Im Shane, she whispered in her ear still holding Danas hand in her own. Dana felt a shiver going up her spine and her skin tingled where she felt Shanes breath caress it. She had that funny feeling in the pit of her stomach. Before she could say anything the door flew open and the other finalist came strutting in talking excitedly about the question who had made the final cut. Dana hastily withdrew her hand from Shanes and stepped back quickly putting some distance between her and the gorgeous brunette who had managed to stir something inside simply with her touch. Shane looked at Dana with amusement as they both joined the others in taking a seat. A woman came walking in the room with a bunch of papers tucked under her arm. She had long dark curly hair and a nice chocolate skin color. Although she was to put it delicately an older woman, Shane couldnt help noticing the way her uniform was clinging to her curvaceous form. Both Shane and Dana recognized her as Kit Porter.

Sorry ladies and gentlemen for running late, she said a little out of breath. Im Kit Porter as Im sure you will all have guessed by now, she spoke moving to the head of the table placing the papers in front of her.

I guess you all know why youre here, she asked not waiting for anyone to reply.

First, I would like to say that you all are an excellent bunch of pilots and engineers. Otherwise, you wouldnt be sitting here of course, she chuckled. In a more serious voice she continued.

Unfortunately as you might know there are only two positions open. You have all had to take several tests and simulations to determine which one of you is the most qualified for these positions. After long deliberations we have finally made our choice. She looked at the expectant looks on the faces around the table. Finally her gaze rested on Dana and Shane who were conveniently seated next to each other.

The two officers who have been selected for this mission are Shane McCutcheon and Dana Fairbanks. I would like to thank you all. Dana Shane if you could stay for a moment? And with that she dismissed the other recruits. Noisily they scraped back their chairs and filed out of the room their faces not nearly as animated as they had been when they had entered. Dana and Shane glanced at each other as big smiles spread on their faces.

Kit also had a huge smile on her face now said, Dana Fairbanks, pointing at Shane, Meet Shane McCutcheon your pilot. Shane McCutcheon, pointing at Dana, Meet Dana Fairbanks your electronic engineer.

Shane and Dana look at each other and in an explosion of joy they clapped both hands in a loud high five and Shane pulled Dana into a hug almost yelling, We made it dude! The moment Shanes arms wrapped around her, Dana felt that heat again and for a few moments she was oblivious to her surroundings.

Kit coughed a little to remind the young ladies she was still there. Shane let go of Dana reluctantly and they both became serious again but they really had a hard time controlling their joy.

You have the rest of the weekend to celebrate but I want you ready to go Monday morning, fresh and clear headed. You will receive via comlink the time and place to meet the crew. You can go now. And with that she gathered her papers and walked out the door with a triumphant look on her face leaving an overjoyed Dana and Shane in her wake.