Mr. Wilson by Jeff Tanyard

Terry Wilson is leaving Earth. Nothing remains there for him but painful memories.

The Wagon Train project offers him the chance to settle a new planet, and he jumps at the opportunity.

While in space, he receives important news from home. It comes too late, though, and his contract forbids his return. He's finished with Earth whether he likes it or not. But Earth isn't quite finished with Mr. Wilson.

Mr. Wilson is a 11,000-word short story.