"Do you know about the "Big Bang" theory, Mrs. Baker?" asked Jay. She began to take on a suspicious expression, and nodded.

"After the Big Bang," continued Jay, rapt in his own story, "there are two possible situations. We know that all the matter is flying out---that the Universe is expanding---right now. So what do you think could happen?"

"It could keep expanding, for all eternity," answered Ms. Baker.

"Yes. We could be headed farther and farther away from all the other matter in space. The Universe could be a one-time deal. What else do you think could happen?"

Millicent couldn't think of anything.

"There is also that chance that the Universe will reach a point where gravity will overpower the expansion. In short, that the Universe will...contract. That it beats like a heart. That it's not a one time deal, that it happens over and over again, and this is not the first time."

"It could go on like that forever?" murmured Millicent.

"That's exactly it," hissed Jay.

The plane had taken off, and Millicent hadn't really noticed.

Seat 24C (Anna)
Part Three: Knitting

Seat 11E (Greg Mushroom)
Part Four: A Very Strange Prayer