A second screen appeared on another wall, next to the first. On this screen, I saw the Earth growing smaller in space as our ship raced away. I shook my head. This couldn’t be real. I wanted to deny it all. But by the time I saw the rings of Saturn pass by in the screen, I knew I had to face facts.

I wouldn’t be going back. Ever.

The second wall screen continued monitoring the new life of my double. The very next day, my clone purchased a single lottery ticket and was declared the sole winner of a $100 million payout later that week. I don’t know how, but I’m sure the aliens arranged it for them.

As my wife enjoys her new mansion, her new Corvette ZR1, riding horses, private school for the twins and a new yacht with the clone, I must watch her enjoy it all without me. The fluids of my environmental tank eliminate any need for sleep, restrict my range of movement and supply me with intravenous nutrition. Unable to close my eyes for more than a blink every few minutes, I see my life with her as it could have been – as it should have been.

I was wrong again. The aliens are punishing me for my crimes. I just wonder how long I’ll have to pay for them. What kind of justice system do they have? Is this a part of it?

I’ve heard it said that living well is the best revenge. If that’s so, then my wife has unknowingly taken vengeance on me for the rest of her life. She believes she’s living with a changed man. She has no idea…

I wonder; will I go insane? Will the aliens allow it?

No. This is just the beginning of the longest running show I’ve ever watched. There will be no commercial interruptions, channel changes or bathroom breaks. Still, in the back of my mind, I can’t help but think in liquid suspended silence. It’s just a single thought.

Lord, I sure could use a drink.

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