Deadline

"Deadline" by Walter L. Kleine explores the tense creation of the first human settlement on Mars. Facing a strict deadline, two survivors named Marsh and Helene navigate the relentless Martian environment, striving to resolve mechanical setbacks and their individual emotional challenges. Tasked with building a landing strip in just seventy days for incoming ships, they must overcome personal grief and grow close to forge a bond of love to cooperate and beat their high-stakes mission. This story emphasizes survival, and the human connection found far away from Earth under the tremendous strain of isolation.