For such a short story there is quite a bit to recommend it.  The pacing is quick and stays on target, we learn enough about the 3 characters (Elle, Vance and Alastair). They are each fleshed out a little bit and the romance is sweet if a little a rushed. 

Elle is a practical woman--she does her job well, she understands (even if she doesn't like) the position she has on the ship and tries to make the most of it.  It's not a perfect life, but she's doing what she likes so everything else can just fade into the background.  The fact she talks to the ship (and believes it responds) is a cute quirk--who doesn't talk to inanimate objects that you love?  And she does love the ship.

Alastair is everything she ever wanted and then a little more.  He's a little pushy, but since Elle spends most of the story injured in some way, I can completely understand why he is so worried about her.

I'm still a bit confused on the whole Guardian process--who they are, how exactly he was 'one with the ship' and such, but this was just a taste of the world.  According to the author's website Wild Rose Press will be releasing another story set in the universe, so hopefully we learn more about these Guardians of the Universe.