Tasteful Conversation
Laughter ricocheted around the bridge. Muted laughter, but laughter nonetheless. He glanced around at his companions, blissfully unaware of the spectacle he was causing.
"What?" he demanded, twirling to look behind him. Nothing there.
Nothing on his uniform either.
"Harry?" he asked, eyes pleading for understanding, or at least inclusion.
Harry shook his head.
"What?" He looked around. "Is this some kind of practical joke?"
The laughter died down as the turbolift doors opened.
"Forget something?" called an all too familiar voice.
He shook his head, uncomprehending. "No."
The newest arrival charged across the bridge, ignoring the snickers that followed.
* * * * *
She stopped within millimeters of his larger form, eyes blazing, teeth bared. "No?" she demanded, embarrassed and insulted.
He shook his head, eyes growing wider still. He held up his hands in surrender. "Tell me?"
She brought a hand up as if to slap him across the face. Very gently, she brought her palm down across his cheek. Held it up for him to see.
Blood.
His hand went to his face.
He sighed. He wondered how many ways she was going to kill him. In a whisper he asked, "Dermal regenerator?"
She nodded, opening her hand to show him.
* * * * *
He closed his eyes in embarrassment, wishing he could turn back time. Wishing that she had stopped him earlier - before he went on duty. Then remembered that she had called after him as he left, but he had been rushing to be on time.
Deft fingers guided the regenerator over the wound on his face, and he felt the small lacerations begin to close. He remembered, too late, that they were still on the bridge. This story would be around the ship before she arrived in Engineering.
She stepped back, turning off the regenerator with a click.
He almost relaxed.
* * * * *
She turned away, walking as quickly as she could towards the turbolift. She wiped her bloody hand on her uniform trousers, being careful not to look at anyone. Her jaw was set in a harsh line, her eyes were fire.
It was a look that promised hell for everyone she would encounter during the day. And pain - without pleasure - for him.
He watched her leave. Then sank into his chair and did his best to ignore this latest incident.
A voice startled him out of his reverie.
The captain, very amused by the show.
"So, does this mean you're engaged?"
*END*