fend off.

The hum of the stolen ship's engines was a low purr that vibrated through the metal floor, a constant reminder of their precarious escape from the Nebularis Belt station. Vela piloted the ship with a deft touch, her fingers dancing over the controls like a pianist during a complex symphony. The darkness of space enveloped them, stars scattered like distant lighthouses guiding their way.

Loxley leaned against the console, watching her with an amused expression. "You handle her like she's a delicate lover," he commented, his tone light but laced with innuendo.

Vela shot him a glare that was half-hearted at best. "Focus on the sensors, lover boy. I don't need any distractions while I'm trying to get us out of this mess."

Mara, sprawled in the co-pilot's seat, chuckled. "You two bicker like an old married couple. It's cute, in a nauseating sort of way."