I love you. :-)
This was their usual routine: he’d run just a bit ahead, check it out, and if he got in trouble, she got him out. This is pretty close to what I imagined their relationship to be. Instead of the typical sidekick/hero-Companion/Doctor, I figure Ellie is more of a babysitter/guide/secret weapon.
The romantic element is great, Gates’ attitude is spot on and thanks for giving Ellie some much needed characterization.

Thanks to Howie & King Tarzan for some of the phrases used, particularly cosmic wank stain.

{freaks out upon seeing Tarzan’s review.}

how can a story go wrong with ‘cosmic wank stain’ in it.