walked out under blue skies.
Great ending!
The pipe was a prop indeed. I certainly was caught up in the illusion. Must be what it's like to have an alternate reality.
Reminds me of the ending of A.I. Artificial Intelligence, brilliant Kubrick/Spielberg production (because Kubrick died before it was finished). There a robot child is nurtured and protected as he holds onto his illusion that he is human.
Your story is wonderful. I won't say it's one of your best, because so many of yours are amazing. But this is a great one.
RE: Departure Times