John fidgeted awkwardly, eyeing Woolsey from across the desk before glancing around what used to be Elizabeth's office. So much had changed in the last three months but some things had an eerily familiar, almost surreal feeling to them.
Elizabeth had been allowed to stay in Atlantis as a correspondent but she was no longer in command reporting to Woolsey who monitored her progress. She'd been working with a psychiatrist to recover her memories and the IOA were in agreement, as long as she passed the necessary evaluations she would still be deemed an asset to their mission.
Of course she'd passed with flying colours but his relief had been overshadowed by the reality of what that meant going forward.
"You're asking me if I think she's ready?" He threw the question back at Woolsey who simply nodded his head in response.
It was no secret the two of them had been spending a lot of time together since her return. They'd been close before so it was only natural they'd gravitated towards each other again and John assumed the man was asking out of courtesy. He'd heard about the mission, brokering relations with a race called the Hindorians who were known to be reserved in their dealings with other cultures. They were an advanced democratic civilization and the IOA were pushing to get them on aside apparently with the newly formed idea that Elizabeth would head the talks.
The catch, the decision to allow her off-world to lead the negotiations.
"She's been cleared and the IOA want this to happen," Richard pushed the briefing folder across the table, "I'm asking what you think."
John picked up the papers more for show than anything else. Truthfully he didn't give a damn about what the file contained he didn't want her out there, end of story. The idea that she'd be at risk so soon after returning made him feel uncomfortable and he dropped the folder back on the desk swallowing roughly.
"I think it's too soon."
Richard considered the statement knowing his superiors wouldn't like it but still willing to listen to both sides. It was his call but he wanted to be absolutely sure before he made the decision. "May I ask what you're basing that on?"
"All I'm saying is, it wouldn't hurt to give her a little more time to adjust." John shifted uncomfortably, finding the words difficult to part with. He knew she was strong and didn't doubt her abilities but anyone would be struggling with the trauma she'd been through, much less be able to compartmentalize it all in a few months.
"I see." Richard regarded the man trying to discern if his suggestion held any merit or if he was simply being over protective. Losing Doctor Weir had hit Atlantis hard and to have her returned was indeed a miracle. No one would blame him for wanting to be cautious. "Thank you Colonel, I'll take that under advisement."
John nodded sharply as he pushed up from his seat. Elizabeth wasn't going to like it when she got wind of his recommendation but if it meant keeping her safe he was willing to wear the brunt of her anger. He'd sworn to himself he'd go to any lengths to protect her and he'd meant it.
There was no way in hell he was losing her again.
