[Note attached to box found outside Mae's quarters, April 19th, 0600 hours]

  Mae,

  Leaving today at 0900. Pretty fucking nervous.

  I just want you to have this. You might need it more than I do. Might come back or not. Prayed hard since last night.

  This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

  Look, I know the timing for this is never right, but I get it. We won't be together. Just, take good care of yourself, Mae. You're worth more than you think.

  Your friend,

  Patel

  [Box contents: Six bottles of whiskey - various labels, smuggled stock from Patel's equipment locker stash]

  [Handwritten note at bottom of page, Mae's writing:]

  Why does everyone keep trying to make me cry for fuck's sake