Very strange scenario, but still poignant and heartbreaking despite its weirdness.

Some typos, like ‘he’ for ‘his’ in the fourth paragraph. Also, no need for his response to be a run-on in the second paragraph.

Thank THX, inspiration made me blind to simple things, though the body of the idea is fine.

I know you didn’t mention it, but for anyone else, I love making my own words:

Volteered + Retired = Voluntired

Defintion: In this futuristic setting, lighthouses PROTECT icebergs and beach sand, mining earth was never so good. Some citizens choose to Voluntire on Ocean Ranger’s Tugs or repurposed oil rigs. Earth’s vast oceans are now parks, violently protected like England’s forests or lore.

I do love that word. I shall use it in future if there is ever the opportunity to!

Some more typos: apostrophe required in ‘minds’ (second para). Could ‘what ever’ be one word in the same para? Or is this another American/English difference?

I like the introduction of setting as their problems settle down a little. Yet another really clever idea. Cool lighthouse. I’m also happy that their marriage is a little better.
Abby x