The Un-Reconstructed Woman

"The Un-Reconstructed Woman" by Hayden Howard is a science fiction story that looks at what it means to be human and how we connect with others, told through the experiences of Paul, a young man alone on another world, and a strange blue-haired being he calls Harriet. After losing his brother, Harry, Paul's solitary existence changes when he captures Harriet. Over time, their relationship goes from him being her captor to something far more complex, as he tries to teach her about human ways in a tough environment. He grapples with tough questions about her rights and safety. Their unusual bond makes Paul rethink his ideas about friendship, family, and what it truly means to care for someone as new settlers arrive. The story builds to a climax as Paul faces difficult decisions about who he is, what freedom means, and the reality of love in a huge and indifferent universe.