Archiving: Sure, just let me know.

Warnings: Angst

Spoilers: Possible S3

Disclaimer: Not mine, wish they were, but I play with them. Thanks to MGM studios and TPTB for providing me with such fun.

Summary: Challenge fic - How or to whom would John reveal his feelings for Teyla?

Crossing the Line

He'd watched them with the wariness of one who had spent too many years on the run. His senses had taught him what to instinctively trust and who. There was something about the pair that drew his interest. It was not just the fact that they were also enemy of the Wraith or that they had technology he could use. There was an uncommon bond between them. It flowed like energy yet both seemed oblivious to it or rather chose to ignore it.

Later as he came to know each better, he understood. It was as if an invisible line had been drawn, one that they both acknowledged and worked hard to respect. However, he suspected that over the last months that line had been tested. Not crossed he knew, but tested in a way he observed - instinctively knew that neither were ready for.

He understood the necessarily of not crossing the line. He felt he understood him quite well. But she'd been missing for two weeks now. The search had gone from frantic to silent desperation. It's hidden well - she's part of his team - you do not leave your people behind. He would do the same for us all.

It is late at night when he works though the familiar routine of the Kata she has taught him, going though the movements with an intensity that betrays his outward appearance of the past days. He does not attempt to dissect- the need is understood for he too visits the gym for his own reasons.

When finished he bows his head in the traditional Athosian manner and shudders. Slowly walking to his bag he deposits the sticks. As he walks away it is with a weariness and sadness that others will never see.

Then He knows - the line has been crossed.