The President and the Admiral were the last to leave the meeting, having stayed behind to iron out a few final details. They were nearly at the hatch when Tory let herself in, blocking their way, saying she needed to speak to the President. The Admiral was confused to notice their interaction. Tory held the President's eyes, then flicked her gaze sideways, as if trying to tell Laura something, while talking about some diary changes. She made no move towards the table, leaving Laura with a view of the half open hatch.
Laura seemed confused for a moment, then she stiffened, her eyes on whatever was happening through the hatch. Obviously paying no attention to the stream of information Tory was giving her, one hand lifted to her mouth and the other reached out for Tory's arm, as if to steady herself. Tory showed no reaction to the President's actions, simply continued her monologue.
Bill was intrigued to see the tiny smile flicker across Laura's face, and the sheer relief that accompanied it, wishing he could see what was happening in the corridor.
"She's really here. She really is alive and safe. Oh, thank the gods." The words were whispered, but the emotion that laced them was powerful, love, joy and relief. She continued staring for a long moment, before turning to her aide, tears shining in her eyes.
"Thank you."
The answering smile was small, but the hint of moisture in Tory's eyes showed she wasn't completely unaffected either. With a nod, she accepted the thanks, closed the diary she held and took her leave with one final comment.
"Your next meeting is on the Rising Star, the transport is ready to leave as soon as you are."
Laura stood, still staring at the spot through the hatch. Before he could ask the question though, she pulled herself together and turned to him.
"Admiral, thank you for everything. I will see you at our briefing tomorrow, no doubt."
Leaving him no option but to escort her out the room and hand her over to her security and waiting aide.
Watching them, as the small group disappeared in the direction of the hangar deck, he then scanned the area, settling on one of the marine guards.
"How long have you been stationed here?"
"The past two hours, Sir."
"Was there anyone in the corridor about five minutes ago?"
"The President's guard, of course, Starbuck, Hot Dog and Racetrack were jogging together, the Agathons with their baby. I think that was all, Sir."
"Thank you. As you were."
Deep in thought he strode in the direction of his quarters.