Shepard pulled her helmet off and looked at her crew as the Normandy sanitized their armor.
Liara's face was downcast; they had just come back from Noveria. Shepard sighed and removed the pony-tail from her long black hair, allowing it to fall over her shoulders.
Garrus shifted awkwardly behind her and she smirked.
"Uncomfortable, Vakarian?"
He chuckled, "No ma'am. Just readjusting to the Normandy's pressure."
She rolled her eyes and the door opened.
Liara rushed through CIC to the stairwell. Shepard glanced at Garrus and sighed.
"I think...I should give her time."
Garrus nodded, "If that's what you think is best, Commander." He flashed her a quick salute.
She smiled, "Thanks."
He blinked and cocked his head, "For what, Commander?"
Shepard laughed lightly, "For not questioning my judgment. I had to kill the Queen."
Garrus briskly nodded as they walked through the CIC together.
"I understand your reasoning, Commander and I think the galaxy would rather avoid the second Rachni War while fighting the geth and Reapers."
She scoffed, walking down the stairwell, "I don't think anyone believes in my visions, other then Liara."
"I do."
He stepped into the elevator and she smiled.
"It's nice knowing you don't think I'm crazy," she spoke warmly.
He nodded. "Commander."
She laughed, "Vakarian, call me Shepard when we're not shooting geth."
Garrus blinked, "Permission to speak freely, Shepard?"
She placed her hands behind her back, straightening, "Granted, Garrus."
He didn't know why, but he got a rush when she spoke his first name so lightly. Her voice wasn't hard with him, the way it was when she was threatening people or cursing like the sailor she is. It almost revealed a vulnerability, a softer edge of the blade of his favorite biotic Commander.
Her gorgeous green eyes poured into him. Shepard felt the atmosphere thicken, she started to feel awkward standing there with this turian.
"I know you're under a ridiculous amount of pressure, Shepard. I also know you're afraid. You're afraid you won't save everyone. You're afraid Saren will win," he spoke each word softly, like she was a child getting lulled to sleep. The velvety tones of his voice probably could be her lullaby. Maybe she'd sleep for once.
Shepard shook her head lightly and took a deep breath.
"That's putting it delicately. I haven't slept." She smiled sadly but regained her composure a second later.
No. Personal feelings do not interfere with professionalism. That had been her mantra since day one of training. Friendships cause attachments. Attachments result in loss. Loss meant mourning and Shepard couldn't mourn anyone. Not anymore. Not after Akuze. She refused to put herself through that.
"He won't win, especially since I'm around," he smiled, "If you ever need to talk, I'm here."
Without another word, he walked into the elevator and saluted her.
"Commander Shepard."
She nodded, "Officer Vakarian."
He smiled.
Damn it all. A small tug on her heartstrings and she would unravel completely. The room grew warmer. Perhaps she had a fever? Maybe the Noveria weather got to her.
The elevator closed.
She released a breath she didn't realize she was holding.
A/N: There it is, NeverEatRoses. I hope you liked it. :)
BrokenEmber