Author's Notes:
 Mass Effect and its characters are the property of BioWare.
 This is written specifically w/ my personal Shepard in mind.

Dr. Liara T'Soni shifted again in her chair, waiting for the awkward silence to end. In contrast, Commander Shepard appeared to be completely calm, her gaze never flinching from the challenging look that was aimed at both of them.

Counselor Anderson sighed. "Commander Shepard, Doctor T'Soni, I recognize that the two of you, along with the rest of your team, have done a tremendous amount of work on behalf of the Council."

From his desk nearby, Udina let out a derisive snort; Anderson ignored him. "And I also realize that it is only because of you that the Council is even here at all." Another snort, also ignored. "But regardless of your status as a Spectre, Commander, and despite all you've accomplished, you are still an Alliance officer, and there are still rules and regulations that must be followed."

Liara wasn't sure, having only really interacted with humans since joining the Normandy, and thus still counting herself as inexperienced in the nuances of human tone and body language, but it seemed to her that Anderson wasn't really putting much effort into his reprimand. Reflexively she glanced over at Shepard, and saw only that same focused expression.

"To that end," Anderson continued, "I must formally advise against any further behavior of this sort. Is that clear?"

Shepard nodded quickly. "Clear, sir. We'll implement the necessary measures and precautions." Her voice didn't even waver. Liara merely nodded, relieved she wouldn't have to speak.

"See that you do. That'll be all, though I'm sure the Council will have another assignment for you and your crew, Commander, so I'd suggest sticking around for now." Anderson's tone warmed slightly. "Maybe see if you can persuade Joker to actually take some shore leave, get out of that precious chair of his."

Liara couldn't resist smiling as Shepard laughed. "I can't promise anything, sir, but I'll see what I can do."

"Very well. You're dismissed."

Shepard and Liara both stood, Shepard saluting out of respect, and they turned to leave the room. Liara waited until they were in the elevator, headed for where the Normandy was docked, before speaking. "I cannot believe that just happened, and it was all my fault."

Shepard gently rested a hand on Liara's shoulder. "It's fine, really. Anderson wasn't actually mad at us, and no report's going to be filed about it."

Liara was grateful they were alone in the elevator. "But to think that he had to reprimand me, and especially for such a grievous offense!"

Shepard chuckled. "You do know you're taking this way too seriously, right?"

"But I defaced Alliance property, Shepard!"

"Liara, I told you, it's Evelyn, even when we're in public."

Liara smiled softly. "Alright, Evelyn, but I worry you are not taking this seriously enough."

Shepard shrugged. "So I wear a high-collared shirt for a little while, so what?" She grinned. "Totally worth it."

Liara could feel herself blushing. "You just… say these things..."

There was silence as the elevator continued its ascent. Since it was just the two of them, Liara felt safe voicing her question. "What was it, again, that you humans call it?"

"A hickey."