"I may have put it jokingly," protested Dark, a little taken aback, "but I'm serious, Maya."
"I know you are!" she giggled. "That's what makes it so funny. Answering you in the same vein, Mr. Kensington, I don't intend to put you in double jeopardy!"
Dark raised his eyebrows quizzically.
"I arrested you and you were killed resisting arrest," she explained mischievously. "I've discharged that duty as a terrestrial agent, so I don't think I'm either required or entitled to arrest you again. And as for the other, well, I am a little sorry for Nuwell, but I do love you, and I won't marry Nuwell, since you're alive. But I can't marry you, Dark."
Dark was stunned at this.
"Why not, Maya? You mean, because you're a terrestrial agent?"
"No, it isn't that. I'm planning to resign as an agent, as soon as I get back to Mars City, and that wouldn't stop me, anyway. The reason I can't marry you is simply that you haven't asked me."
Dark laughed, a rollicking, relieved laugh, and swept her into his arms.
"Maya, darling, I ask you now!" he exclaimed. "Will you marry me?"
"Yes, Dark," she answered demurely.