The Very Black

"The Very Black" by Dean Evans is a science fiction story from the early 1950s that follows test pilot Eddie Anders as he wrestles with the perils of flying the XXE-1, a very modern jet, and his complicated connection to Margie Hayman, whose father designed the plane. Human feelings meet high-tech dangers, and the story asks what happens when imagination becomes real. Eddie faces a tough choice between his duty and his heart, especially when a bizarre being appears, claiming to be from his own mind and demanding he give up his love for Margie. During a high-stakes test flight, Eddie discovers that his love and who he is are key to making it through, exploring the complicated ties between affection, terror, and what's real versus what's imagined.