High above Nexus Spire, anchored in a geostationary location by an OTech drive at the edge of the planet's atmosphere, a domed garden hung peacefully. The location was used frequently by any number of people for many different events which meant that the venue was an expensive one to book. Of course, this wasn't an issue for Del, especially since a majority of the resources used to produce the platform came directly from him.
Vivian was surprised that Del had been able to keep the place a secret from her. Not that Del was actually keeping it secret, he just had a hand in so many different projects and places that Vivian could live her entire natural life and not have time to see everything he had access to.
It was much more than Vivian thought any one person should have, but to his credit, most of the spaces that he contributes to, if not owns directly, are designed for public use, including dozens of other gardens just like this one. As their transport moved in to dock in a hanger below the garden, Vivian couldn't help but feel like she was in an old Sci-Fi movie.
After they stepped off the transport, Vivian and Del were ushered across the hangar by a companion to an elevator that took them up to the surface of the Garden. The elevator doors opened to a breathtaking view of a veridian pasture complete with a few hills and a large oak tree marking the exact center of the garden. The garden was on a gentle gradient, creating a greater view of the atmosphere and curve of the planet below.
"Oh my God!" Vivian couldn't help herself.
"It is beautiful, isn't it?" Del replied. His fingers weaved into hers as he pulled her close.
The bright blue atmosphere and main star above provided ample light, but the atmosphere quickly faded to a black starscape. The couple stepped out of the elevator and began walking a white stone path toward the tree at the center. Vivian looked at the grass on her side of the walkway.
"Are there any bugs?" She asked.
"No, not here," Del said.
"Oh, damn," Vivian had a tinge of disappointment, but she was glad that she didn't have to worry about stepping on anything. She removed her heels and began walking beside barefoot in the grass.
"Many of the other gardens have butterflies and bees to help pollinate the flowers, but this one is distinctly insect free."
Vivian had to resist the urge to peel off into the grass and roll around in it like a child would. She kept herself contained and at pace with Del. A companion followed behind, carrying the basket and blanket needed for a classic picnic.
Even though the garden was meticulously temperature-controlled, they chose a spot under the shade of the oak tree for the cool, manufactured breeze. The companion laid out the blanket and basket, then disappeared from sight. Vivian took Del's hand as they took their positions on the blanket.
A plate of finely crafted tuna sandwiches was retrieved from the basket, followed by a bottle of real, vintage, pre-contact wine and a pair of glasses. Vivian raised an eyebrow as she watched him remove the cork and begin pouring.
"What's the occasion?" She asked.
