Chapter Text
Three days ago Astrodude got a call from Houston saying his contract had expired.
He was going home.
The moment he's been dreaming of for years and...he's scared.
He really shouldn't be. He gets to go back home. To see his wife. To see his son!
But he also doesn't know how much has changed. There's been so many things that have happened, so many almost life ending events. What if he doesn't fit in anymore?
He breathes out and checks the ships coordinates one more time. He's going to get this right.
'You ready?'
Astrodude hears a familiar chirp from next to him. He peers out of the large window, directly at Earth.
He smiles.
"Yeah, the coordinates are set. They've got the landing procedure all set down there."
'We'll miss you.'
'I know you will.'
'I'll miss you guys too.'
'I'll visit.'
'You...can do that?'
'Oh, yeah, I go down to my surface all the time.'
He's not even going to try and rationalise how that works. Astrodudes whole knowledge of the universe has been forever altered, not much surprises him anymore.
'Well, I'd best start my descent. Wish me luck.'
'Bye Astrodude!'
Earth waved as Astrodude put the ship on autopilot, descending towards Earth.
'Bye!'
The landing went about how he expected it to. He landed in the Atlantic ocean as planned, a medical team and camera crew waiting for his arrival.
As of today he is officially the first astronaut to spend multiple consecutive years in space.
He looks up at the sky for the first time in years and can't help but feel a sense of sadness. He knew he'd never see any of them again. His lifespan is so miniscule in comparison to theirs.
It was honestly kind of terrifying to think about.
The medical staff gave him the clear several hours later.
When he left the room he was immediately engulfed by his wives arms.
"You're finally home."
He looked at her with tears in his eyes and hummed.
'I missed you.'
Instead of what he was expecting, she looked at him like he had grown two heads, which he very well might've as he hadn't looked I'm a mirror for well over four years.
"Are you sure the doctors gave you the clear?"
Astrodude tilted his head.
Why wouldn't they have...oh! He's been around the planets for so long he's forgotten that no one else talks like that.
Using all of his brain power he possibly could, he focused on forcing his mouth to make the now unfamiliar English words.
"Yes, I'm fine. I haven't spoken properly for so long now. I must've forgotten."
Astrowife looked slightly more relieved at this, glad her husband didn't have a brain injury.
"Just take it slowly, okay?"
Astrodude chuckled. He's longed for so long to hear her voice in person again.
As they left hand in hand, Astrodude could feel the familiar sensation of being watched, and he knew his friend, his home, was watching over him.