Oh no, Sunshine thought, her legs feeling like lead. The vote went sideways.
She stood at the center of the vast, echoing room, her hands clammy and shaking. She tried to tuck them into her pockets, but she didn't have pockets. She settled for fidgeting with her fingers, looking everywhere but at the Council members.
Commander Melvin, seated at the center, cleared his throat_ a loud, artificial sound that echoed off the high ceilings. He looked tired. Not the 'I need a nap' tired, but the 'I'm weary of the world' tired. "Sunshine Quinn," Melvin began, his voice heavy. "The Council has spent a great deal of time discussing your proposal regarding the Prime Core and the assistance of our Master Repairmen." He paused. The silence lasted a heartbeat too long. "Unfortunately, the Council has rejected your offer."
