Reality Check

Posted on Tue Nov 5th, 2019 @ 2:28pm by Captain Henry Crow & Patricia Crow

Mission: Bless the Maker
Location: 5 n' Dime Lounge
Timeline: 48 hours following Mediation

Henry sat in the lounge in solitude eating dinner. Things at home had been a little tense and he knew Edra was disappointed in him but there were things she did not know and therefore understand about his reluctance and outright obstinance about going to the Counselor.

Lost in his thoughts as he stared at the plate he saw the form drop down into the seat across from him. A moment later a PADD clunked onto the table.

"What's that?" Banks asked.

"It's a PADD."

Her momentary silence shrieked of annoyance. "And what's on it?"

"A transfer order."

"And for whom?"

"Ms. Stepanova."

"You can't do that."

"I must have missed your promotion to Admiral. Congratulations."

"I'm serious. She means a lot to people on this ship. People trust her."

"I don't."

"I do."

He glanced up at her. "You of all people know what it means to hold things close to the vest."

"Yes I do. There are things I've done, parts of me, that your son has no idea of. Same that your wife doesn't know about you. But you and I know what it's like and I've been able to open up to her and get some things off my chest. Not everything, it's a slow process and she can be infuriating when she picks and picks but it does work."

"You don't strike me as the kind to sit on a couch and spill your guts."

"Because I don't. Normally we work out or have some drinks and just talk. It doesn't have to be uncomfortable. Pick a setting you're a little more at ease and give it a chance."

"We'll see."

"While you're seeing about that there's something else I want...a favor."

"What is it?"

"Turn that transfer form into something more permanent. She's terrified of setting down roots because tomorrow she could be reassigned. It's a miserable way to live. I know you can call your shots on personnel when you want to."

"You want me to call in a favor to have someone I've thought about sending away to be permanently assigned to this ship."

"Mmhm." She smiled.

"Who's asking, the assassin or my daughter in law"

"Does it really matter?"

He mumbled something unheard before taking a bite. "Get out of here and give my grandson a hug."

She kept the smile as she rose up and walked away.

He cut a piece of steak and chewed on it, among other things.