Summary

The next chapter takes place in August 1981. Joan’s group of ASCANS were informed that they had successfully passed their training and were now fully qualified astronauts. They were given a silver pin to mark the achievement. Frances was very proud of Joan when she saw the pin. Later, the group went to a bar to celebrate. No longer concerned that their relationship would affect Donna’s career prospects now that she had qualified, Hank and Donna announced they were engaged. Gradually, everyone went home, leaving Vanessa and Joan alone together in the bar. Vanessa offered to drive Joan home. They went into Joan’s apartment together. Vanessa told Joan that she did not have endless patience and Joan claimed not to know what she meant. Vanessa accused her of pretending not to understand her when she did. Vanessa asked Joan to tell her...