She Knew He Was Coming

"She Knew He Was Coming" by Kris Neville is a science fiction story that presents a snapshot of life on Mars, where love and dreams collide with a stark reality. The story follows Mary, a young woman employed in a Martian establishment, as she clings to the hope that an Earthman will offer her a way out of her difficult life. Her anticipation grows as she prepares for his arrival, a stark contrast to the skepticism around her. Despite warnings from friends and the controlling hand of Madame Bestris, she resolutely believes that this man represents her chance at happiness. The story builds towards a pivotal moment where Mary is forced to come to terms with the truth of her situation, resulting in a bittersweet ending that showcases the difficult decisions she confronts in her world.