Aliens in New York

Julius gently lifted Margarita’s hand from his chest, let his gaze travel along her slender hips, and rose quietly from the bed.

He opened the blinds. Outside, a vast, glowing tunnel was cleaving through buildings and trees. From far away came a low, turbine‑like hum.

Julius felt his body go numb. He took a step back.

‘Margarita…’ he whispered.