- Chapter 03 -

Drew blinked open his eyes. He glanced over at the clock. It was just past 0600. He frowned. He had been asleep for close to six hours. He sat up in bed and glanced around. She had done it. He had gotten six hours straight. The quirky scientist had really done it but where the hell was she? "Edi, where is Dr. Bradley?"

"Dr. Bradley is in her quarters, Commander."

He frowned. "When did she leave?"

"The doctor returned to her quarters at 0432," the disembodied voice responded.

Drew rubbed his eyes. She had stayed for four and a half hours then left and he had gotten another hour and a half he thought in surprise. He climbed out of bed and made his way to the bathroom for a shower. This was the first time in a long time he felt like himself. He was refreshingly alert and relaxed. He snorted amused. The woman's methods were unorthodox but they got the job done.

Cora woke to her alarm blaring. She opened her eyes and glared at the unit. It was only 0700. She had only been asleep for two and a half hours. She sat up in bed and groaned. She was sore. Being with the Commander had been pleasurable but now she was suffering the after affects. She glanced at the clock again. She wanted to take a shower but didn't have time. Grimacing she crawled out of bed and changed into fresh clothes, tossing her old clothes in the laundry bin. She gathered a few data pads, checked her hair then rushed out of her quarters headed for Professor Solus's lab. She was scheduled to meet with him at 0730.

Nine hours later Cora entered her quarters again. She really needed a shower and she needed to sleep but she had to check her samples and she had promised Dr. Chakwas she would help in Med Bay. She glanced at the clock. She still had a few minutes before she was expected in Med Bay and she really did need a break. Moving to her terminal and tapped the control. She scrolled through her messages making mental notes of those she would need to follow up on. She continued to sift through her messages. There were several from fellow colleges. She stopped when she came to an unexpected message. Cora smiled and sat planning on giving the message her full attention. Messages from this particular individual always brightened her day. Grinning she read the message several times. She let out a deep breath and stood. His message had been brief, only wanting to let her know all was well, but hearing from him brought him to the forefront of her mind. She missed him. She hadn't seen him in weeks. She could only hope the Normandy made a trip to the Citadel soon so she could see him. She smiled. She had good news for him. Cora left her room headed for Med Bay. She glanced down at her watch. It was 1700 hours. If she was lucky she could be done by 2400 hours and she could get at least six hours of sleep tonight.

At exactly 0230, Cora stumbled into her quarters. She was exhausted. She dropped everything, stripped and crawled into her bunk. It had been a full day and she was working on two and a half hours of sleep. She wondered how the Commander was able to function without sleep for so long. Her eyes shot open, the Commander. She had been so busy today she had completely forgotten all about him. She wondered how he was doing. She let out a slow exhausted breath as she closed her eyes again. She would look in on him tomorrow to make sure he was getting rest. "Tomorrow," she mumbled as she slipped off to sleep.

The following day Cora found herself roaming the corridors for what seemed like the tenth time. She had been trying to catch a glimpse of the Commander all day and had yet to see him. She frowned. He was probably just busy. She could only hope, because the five hours he had gotten was only going to carry him so far. She let out a deep breath. She had her own work to do. She made her way back to her lab already thinking of all the things she had to do once she reached the lab and her samples.

Cora entered her quarters and glanced at the clock. It was almost 2200 hours. She had gotten her work done a bit earlier than expected. She glanced over at the laundry pile and scowled. She really hated to do laundry but she would begin to run out of clothes soon if she didn't do something. She let out a frustrated breath and began moving about her quarters gathering discarded clothes. She prepared her laundry bag and gathered a few data pads for something to read while the laundry was being cleaned. She was about to exit her quarters when her terminal chimed.

Cora set down her bags and went to check the message. It was odd to receive a message at this time of night but not impossible. She opened the message and stared unmoving. The message was from the Commander. He was summoning her to his quarters. She let out a slow breath. It had been more than a week since their last encounter. In that time she hadn't even caught of glimpse of him let alone spoken to him. She had tried looking for him but he was always away doing something. She had finally given up thinking he was probably sleeping again or perhaps he had found someone else to serve his needs. Yet here was a message from him summoning her. She gaped at the message.

"I am in need of your services. 2330 tonight."

Cora swallowed as her palms began to sweat. Could she actually go to him? The courage to go to him before had been born of desperation. She had burned to help him and was determined to do whatever was necessary to achieve the goal. She had no way of knowing exactly what would happen, but she knew exactly what going to him now would entail. She felt her skin flush with heat at the thought. She chewed on her lip nervously. He was summoning her. That had to count for something right? He had said he needed her services which meant he was back to not sleeping. If she could help him she had a duty to do just that right? A slow smile spread across her lips. Of course there was nothing to say she couldn't enjoy the encounter. Commander Shepard was a truly stunning man and an amazing lover. Having the opportunity to be with him was something no sane woman would pass up.

Cora glanced at the clock. It was already 2300 hours. She stood and rushed to her bunk and grabbed a clean set of clothes from the drawer underneath. She needed a shower. She wouldn't have time to wash her hair but she could at least bathe the grime of the day off. Gathering her bundle she rushed out of her quarters to the showers.

At exactly 2330 Cora stood before the Commanders quarters. She chimed and stood stiffly. "It's open," she heard from the interior as the door slid open. She took a deep breath and entered. Shepard sat casually at his terminal reading some sort of report. She waited until he addressed her. He powered down the terminal and stood to face her. Cora swallowed as she took him in. He wore only his snug briefs. She felt the heat flush her skin and her heart skipped a beat. She swallowed again. She needed to stay calm. After all it was entirely possible he wanted something other than sex. Shepard stood watching her calmly. Cora focused on her breathing trying to give the appearance of calm. She wanted to fidget under his intense stare.

"You're a little overdressed," Shepard said breaking the silence.

Cora gulped as heat assailed her. "I was unsure if you would want to employ the same methods."

The Commander arched a brow at her. "It got the job done last time. Why bother changing it now?"

Cora swallowed again. Her throat had become unbearably parched. The moment she had seen the message her body had begun to gently hum. Looking at him now that hum began to morph into an ache and knowing he wanted to have sex with her again was making the ache throb. She inclined her head to him. "As you wish." She took a step forward. "Shall I please you Commander?" The question came out huskily as her desire flared. She watched his eyes darken with his own desire.

"I want you naked and on your back. That would please me."

Cora's breathing hitched at his words. Her heart raced at what his words implied. Clearly the man knew what he wanted, why waste time with preliminaries. She licked her lips then backed up and began walking to his bed. She pulled off her shirt along the way then slipped off her shoes. By the time she reached his bed she was wearing only her bra and panties. She stood at the foot of his bed and reached back to unlatch her bra when she felt his warmth. He took her arms and wrapped them around her front where he held them with his own. The Commander pulled her back so she was pressed against his chest. Cora closed her eyes basking in the feeling of his strong arms wrapped around her. She gasped with pleasure as he began to suckle her neck. He let go of her arms and let his own roam her body. Cora's breathing came hard. Her body was on fire and she ached to have him inside her. He cupped her breast as he suckled her neck hard. Cora shivered and moaned with pleasure. She felt a new flush of wetness between her legs and moaned. He took her nipple and squeezed as he let his other hand drift down her body. The Commander slipped his hand slowly beneath her panties and let his finger dip into her curls. He gently touched her clit and her body jerked. He continued to suckle her neck as he squeezed her nipple and fondled her clit. Cora's whole body spasamed from the attention. She gasped for breath. He was quickly bringing her to climax. "Commander," she breathed. "This is supposed to be for you, for your release. Let me please you," she groaned.

Shepard nibbled his way to her ear. "Doing this to you, feeling your body writhe in my arms, knowing what you want, what I'm doing to you, that pleases me," he breathed in her ear.

Cora shivered. "Commander, please," she moaned. She was so close. If he continued she would climax and she wanted to feel him inside her when she did.

"Get on your knees," he breathed as he let her go.

Cora staggered and quickly slipped out of her bra and panties then crawled onto the bed. She was on fire and throbbing painfully. She took a breath and glanced back at him. He stood behind her fully erect. She hadn't even realized he had taken his briefs off. She bit her lip knowing what would come next - aching for it. Shepard climbed on the bed with her and gripped her hips. He pulled her back towards him as he thrust forward. Cora cried out from the pleasure as he buried himself to the hilt. He dug his fingers into her hips as he pounded into her without mercy. She gasped already at the brink. She squeezed him with her inner muscles and moaned. He groaned and quickened his pace. Cora came hard, spasming around him. She gasped for breath as he pulled her hips back and thrust forward. He was so deep inside her she groaned then gasped as she felt him release. Her body continued to spasm from the pleasure. She was barely able to stay on her knees.

"On your back," he commanded as he pulled out of her.

Cora groaned at the loss then quickly flopped onto her back. She stared up at him as he moved to climb over her. His features were intense and focused. She bit her lip and moaned. By the stars he wasn't done. Shepard lay atop her and licked her lips. She wrapped her arms around him and brought him closer. She ached to taste him, to devour him. He deepened the kiss as he rubbed himself against her. She groaned as he quickly moved her to another climax. She broke the kiss moaning as he rubbed himself against her again. He took the opportunity to capture her swollen nipple in his mouth. Cora gasped her eyes drifting closed from the pleasure. Shepard left her breast and began to kiss and suckle his way down her body. Her breathing came harder in anticipation. She knew what he was going to do to and she ached for it. The first gentle kiss from him on her most private part made her gasp. By the stars this man was truly amazing she thought as he began to lap at her.

Cora lay on her side watching the Commander sleep. He had worked her body masterfully, bringing her to climax three more times. She smiled. He had given her four but he had at least three of his own. It was after the last that he had finally settled and relaxed enough to fall asleep. That had been three hours ago. He had satisfied her so much she too had drifted off to sleep. Thankfully she was a very light sleeper and was unaccustomed to someone in bed with her. She gave him one last long look then crawled out of bed. She glanced at the clock. It was 0430. She would stay for another hour then head back to her own quarters. She didn't want to be roaming the corridors when the bulk of the crew began to report to their stations. Cora dressed quickly and sat to read for the last hour with him. She powered on her data pad and was about the search for her study when the Commander shifted. Cora instantly stood and went to him. She spoke quietly. She talked about mundane things to help his mind calm. After a few minutes he stilled and slipped into a deep sleep. She glanced at the clock, it was almost 0500. It was time to go. She stared down at him for a few minutes more then stood to leave.

Drew blinked open his eyes and glanced at the clock. "Shit," he breathed as he hopped out of bed and rushed to the bathroom to shower. It was almost 0730 hours. He had overslept. He froze. He had overslept. He hadn't woken once and his dreams had been benign, if he had even had any. He continued toward the bathroom still frowning. He stepped into the shower and began to lather his body as his mind wandered. The last time he remembered looking at the clock it had been almost 0100 hours. He had slept six and a half hours. The Doctor had helped him get six and a half hours straight. He shook his head in wonder and continued his shower. Ten minutes later Drew left the shower and toweled off. He stood before the bathroom mirror preparing to shave still thinking about Dr. Bradley. What was it about the woman that relaxed him enough to sleep so soundly? Was it possible it was just the sex? He'd had lovers before and it never had this effect on him. He had always been a man who was energized by sex. And in his lifetime he had never been a heavy sleeper and yet both nights with the Doctor had been some of the deepest sleep he had ever had, never mind the fact that he hadn't had the nightmare. After their first night together he figured he could do without. He had been curious as to her methods of helping him sleep. He had never actually met her before the day she waltzed into his room and it intrigued him that this woman who knew nothing about him had wanted to help him. Having sex with her had not been something he would have ever imagined. The woman had been literally trembling before him not to mention the fact that Dr. Cora Bradley was not his type of woman in any way shape or form. She was the epitome of a scientist. She always wore her hair tied up so tightly that it literally pulled her eyes up at the corners. She always wore a lab coat and clothes that were wrinkled and too big for her. He had seen her once or twice before and had initially thought her frumpy, maybe even a bit on the chubby side. He snorted unamused. He must have been seriously hard up that first night to agree to her crazy method. Of course now he knew better. Cora Bradley wasn't frumpy or chubby. The woman had the kind of curves to drive any man crazy. She defiantly got his blood flowing and once he got rid of the silly glasses she had become a woman not just another lab rat.

Yes Cora Bradley had her charms but she was everything he didn't want in a woman. He had never been a man attracted to a woman simply because of her looks. He had dealt with enough beautiful people in his life to know there were more important things than beauty, something that could be bought easily enough. Drew pulled on his boots and grabbed his coat from the chair. She had single handedly helped him find the peace he needed to sleep but it was probably a fluke of the moment. He hadn't been with anyone for a while. It was probably just release of tension. He would summon her again tonight and every night after until he finally got her out from under his skin. "Sounds like a plan," he muttered as he left his quarters headed for CIC.

Cora lay beside the Commander trying to catch her breath. He had just given her another amazing orgasm. She had been coming to him every night for the past two weeks. They would spend a couple of hours pleasing each other then he would drift off to sleep, but tonight they were going on hour number 3 and still he was wide awake. "Your methods don't seem to be working tonight doctor," Shepard remarked breathlessly.

Cora bit her lip. No they weren't. Either he was already tiring of her or he had a lot on his mind. She was going to need to try something new. She swallowed and sat up. "Roll onto your stomach." Shepard arched a brow at her in question. Cora rolled her hand indicating he roll over. He let out a slow breath and did as she asked. "What's the most mundane thing you can think of?"

The Commander lifted up and turned to look at her. "Huh?"

Cora chewed on her lip, "how about the weather? That's pretty mundane right?" The Commander gave her a look as though she had just lost her mind. "The weather it is," she muttered as she climbed onto him. She ran her hands along his back up to his shoulders. She gulped. Shepard was magnificent and already she was aching for him but he needed to sleep. Cora made sure to stay on her knees allowing her hands to be the only contact between then. She began to knead his shoulders as she recited weather patterns for Tyr Prime, keeping her voice soothing. After twenty minutes of weather patterns and messaging she felt his breathing deepen. She slowly climbed off of him and pulled the sheet up to cover him. She gathered her clothes and went to the bathroom. Cora collapsed against the counter, closed her eyes and let out a slow breath. If he continued to have nights like tonight they were going to need to find an alternative because the sex just didn't seem to have the same effect anymore. Letting out a resigned breath Cora opened her eyes and began dressing. He had been getting at least five hours of deep sleep every night. He had even stopped having the nightmare. Maybe it was just time to move on. Maybe he was ready to go it alone. If he summoned her again tonight and they had the same problem she would discuss alternatives. Maybe reading before bed or a warm shower to help him relax would do the trick. She checked her appearance in the mirror then left the bathroom. She now had a plan. It was for the best. If she kept coming to him the crew were bound to notice. Quietly she went and sat on his sofa to watch him sleep. The Commander had been sleeping peacefully the last week. She probably didn't need to stay but she stayed regardless. She glanced over to the bed and watched as he snored softly. She wanted to crawl back into bed with him and drift off to sleep with his warmth beside her. She let out a slow breath. That's what she wanted but not what would happen. She would stay for an hour to be sure he continued sleeping then she would head back to her own bunk. She settled back in the sofa and stared out the window as the stars blazing by. Back to her own small, cramped, cold bunk she thought sadly.

- Chapter 04 -

Cora entered Dr. Chakwas's lab and rushed to her samples. She had overslept and now her entire day was on its ear. She pulled out her sample tray and began her examination.

"Oh Dr. Bradley, I thought you'd be preparing to leave the ship," Dr. Chakwas said as she entered the room.

Cora glanced up from her work. "Leave the ship," she asked confused.

Dr. Chakwas smiled. "We are docking with the Citadel in the next thirty minutes. I thought you would want to go to the station to visit your patient."

Cora hopped off her stool. "I had no idea. Thank you Dr. Chakwas. I will go gather my things to depart," she said already halfway to the door.

Dr. Chakwas chuckled. "Give him my best."

Cora grinned. "I will."

Cora rushed to her quarters to change. She had been a jumble of nerves lately. Between the long hours, the time spent with the Commander and her reduced hours of sleep she was always on edge but this shore leave would be good for her, she just knew it. An hour later she was entering the Huerta medical facility. She made her way to the seats beside the large windows. She saw him sitting gazing out at the view and smiled. He turned and glanced around sensing eyes on him. When he saw her he smiled and stood. She rushed to him and hugged him tightly.

"Cora," he breathed as he gathered her close.

"Thane, how I've missed you."

Thane pulled back to look at her, "and I you. Come sit with me. I learned the Normandy had docked. I wondered if you would visit."

Cora reached for his hand and squeezed. "Of course I would visit. I look forward to these trips more than anything. I would have been here sooner but I had no idea we would be coming here today." The ridges above his eyes rose in question. Cora gave him a sheepish smile. "I have been preoccupied of late."

Thane smiled.

"How is Kolyat?"

Thane's smile broadened. "He was here not two hours ago. Perhaps someday I will have you both here so you may finally meet."

Cora smiled. "I would like that." She swallowed. She always loved seeing Thane. He had a way of refocusing her, of giving her peace but he looked tired and that scared her. "I – I've made progress Thane. It's not the cure but I think I'm on the right track."

Thane sat forward and reached for her hand. "Cora I am overjoyed to see you but surely you understand it is not because of your work."

Cora nodded, "of course. We've been through too much together. I know you care about me and it's not just because of the research." She gave him another sheepish smile.

Thane gathered both her hands in his. "Cora, can you not guess why it pleases me to see you?"

Cora's brow furrowed. "I don't understand."

Thane sat quietly and watched her. Cora studied him for a moment then shook her head slowly. He squeezed her hands as he realized she understood his meaning. "You – you can't feel that way about me. How could you?" She swallowed. She had known Thane for so long and never had he given her an indication that he felt that way about her, or that he even could.

Thane gave her an indulgent smile. "How can I not?"

Cora swallowed. Thane was calm and serenity. She knew who he was, what he had once been. She knew he had made his living taking the lives of others but for her he was her savior. He had saved her life and put her on the right path. He had an inner strength she wanted to emulate. He felt a level of peace that she wished she could achieve. Thane was everything a woman could want in a man, everything she wanted in a man. He was smart and charming and handsome and so very loyal. "Why didn't you tell me? Things could have been different for us."

Thane smiled. "Our species are incompatible Cora."

Cora's jaw dropped. She shook her head disbelieving. "We could have made it work Thane. I would have found a way."

He squeezed her hands. "I know you would have tried, to your dyeing breath, but your brilliance is better served researching a cure."

Cora pulled her hands from his frustrated. "I could have done both, Thane. For us to be together I would have found a way."

Thane reached for her hands again. "I would have been incapable of giving you children. I would not have even been able to satisfy you."

Cora scowled. "A relationship isn't only about that," she said angrily. She swallowed as her stomach churned. No a relationship wasn't only about sex. She should know. She had been having sex with the Commander for weeks and they were as much strangers now as they were the first day she entered his quarters.

"No Cora, it is not only about that, but I would have wanted that. I would have wanted that for you," Thane continued breaking into her dark thoughts.

Cora swallowed and stared down at their twined hands as her chest tightened. He squeezed her hands and she glanced up.

"I am dying Cora. I would not bind you to me knowing what comes. I want only the very best for you. It is because I love you that I remained silent."

Cora felt the tears sting her eyes. She blinked them back and swallowed the lump in her throat. "Why – why are you telling me now?"

Thane squeezed her hands, "because it will not be long now. I wanted to die knowing you knew the truth."

Cora shook her head desperately. "No – no Thane, you just need to hold on a little longer. I'm close. I just need a little bit more time."

He gave her an indulgent smile. "The Goddess calls Cora and I must answer but my soul is filled with hope. I know you are safe and can care for yourself. And I know you will find a cure so that none other need ever suffer."

Cora choked as the tears began to flow. She didn't want to lose him. He was the light of her life but no matter how much she tried to deny it she knew he spoke true. He stood and pulled her into his arms. "You will live with me always Cora Bradley," he whispered as he squeezed her tightly.

Cora swallowed and stepped back wiping away the tears. "I will find a cure Thane. For you, for what you have done for me, for who you are to me I will find a cure or die trying."

Thane pulled her close and kissed her forehead. He stood back and stared at her a moment then smiled. "Now go, I believe the doctors have new information for you."

Cora nodded slowly. "I'm coming back. When the Normandy docks again I'm coming back and I expect you to be here." He inclined his head to her and smiled. She gave him a tight smile and turned to leave just as the tears began to fall again.

Drew entered the medical facility and froze. He stood and watched the intimate exchange between Dr. Bradley and Thane Krios. Thane had been a valuable part of his crew until his illness had progressed to the point that he had to be here. He had certainly been gone by the time Dr. Bradley had come aboard. He clinched his fists as he watched Thane embrace Dr. Bradley and kiss her forehead. She pulled back and left Thane's side. Drew watched her go. He frowned. She was crying. What could have happened between them that made her cry? He took a slow calming breath and approached Thane determined to find out.

Thane turned and faced Drew as he neared. "Shepard, what a surprise. Are you here to visit Lt. Commander Williams?"

Drew nodded. "Yeah, I want to talk to her about her plans going forward. Was that Dr. Bradley I saw you with a moment ago?"

Thane smiled and sat. "Indeed."

Drew clinched his teeth suddenly annoyed. He sat across from Thane stiffly. "Seems an odd friendship. What could you possibly need a behavioral psychologist for?" It sure as hell wasn't what she did for him he thought darkly. Drell and human psychology were incompatible, unless they somehow found a way around it. His annoyance jumped up a few levels.

Thane watched Drew. Thane was a hard one to read. As a master assassin he had always been absolute control. Thane never lost his cool. That was why he had been the best. But dealing with a man who was always in complete control also made it harder for Drew to gage his thoughts. "Have you not looked into her crew bio," Thane asked.

Drew's annoyance was quickly becoming uncontrollable. He shifted in his seat. "I've been a little busy. I know only what she told me."

Thane inclined his head, "of course. Dr. Bradley is indeed a behavioral psychologist but it is only one of her areas of study. She also happens to be a Xeno microbiologist."

Drew's brows shot up.

Thane smiled sadly. "She is researching a cure for my disease."

Drew blinked trying to absorb all this new information. His be speckled, awkward behavioral psychologist was a Xeno microbiologist researching an alien cure? He shook his head disbelieving. He and Thane had talked about his disease before. Thane had said the brightest minds had yet to find a cure and these were people familiar with Drell physiology. What could a human think she could do? He cleared his throat. "Has she been able to make any progress?"

Thane inclined his head. "She says she is close to discovering a cure. It has been fortunate that she has been aboard the Normandy. The resources on board the ship have undoubtedly been invaluable. She is close and I believe her. She will not achieve her goal in time to save me but she will spare any others from suffering. She is truly brilliant."

Drew glanced out the window trying to calm the anger that was quickly building within him. The admiration in Thane's voice was hard to miss. He glanced back at the Drell and saw the deep feelings he felt for the doctor. Drew's anger snapped. "Brilliant? She's a behavioral psychologist. Liara is brilliant, Mordin is brilliant. She is smart I'm sure, but brilliant?"

"You surprise me Commander," Thane replied coolly. "You have always kept an open mind. Yes it is true that Dr. T'Soni and Professor Solus are brilliant. They have both had great successes in their lifetimes but combined they also have at least one hundred and fifty years on Dr. Bradley." Thane stood abruptly. "If you will excuse me Commander, I have an appointment with my doctors. Before I go, if I may, I suggest you do a bit more research on your crew. I am quite certain you will discover all manner of surprises."

Thane inclined his head to Drew and left. Drew sat seething. He took several long deep breaths. When he had first seen Thane with Dr. Bradley he had been irked. He had no idea they knew each other and certainly not as well as the embrace implied. Then his irk had morphed into annoyed. Not only did they know each other, they were close. But now – now he was downright pissed. Not only did they know each other well, Thane was in love with her. Was it possible she shared his feelings? Had she been coming to his cabin all these weeks while in love with another man? He stood agitated. Honestly why should he care? She was coming to him to provide a service, nothing more. Worse that service didn't seem to be working anymore. She had come to him just last night and it had taken more effort to finally fall asleep. They had gone three hours before he had finally drifted off. Granted they had been three very stimulating hours but it had still taken longer. Drew made his way to the recovery rooms. It was time to move on. He wasn't having the nightmare anymore which had been the cause of all his sleepless nights. He didn't need her anymore.

Shepard stood outside Ashley Williams' room trying to reign in some of his agitation. Ashley would be back on her feet again soon. Maybe he could convince her to come back to the Normandy. They had been dancing around each other for years. If he found he still needed the sex he could approach her and see if they could finally get past the dancing and to the good stuff. He let out a slow breath. That was exactly what he would do he thought feeling some of the tension leave him. Smirking slightly he stepped to the sliding door and entered Ashley's room.

Cora sat at her desk reviewing the latest medical reports on Thane's condition. He was right, his condition had progressed and it wouldn't be long now. She let out a slow as breath. It was still amazing that he had lasted this long. She could only pray that he lasted a little bit longer. She was close she knew she was but in order to find the cure in time she would need to double her efforts. She swallowed the lump of apprehension. For a chance to save Thane she would forsake everything and everyone. She had to save Thane. He was her rock. She wouldn't survive without him. She would focus all her time and energy to this one task. She would save Thane, there was simply no other option. As a new sense of determination spread through her she stiffened her spine and picked up the medical data pad. She was about to begin the examination of her results when her door chimed. She frowned and glanced at the door then at the clock. Who in the world would be looking for her now? It was the middle of the day. She knew few people on this ship and at this time of day they would all be busy with their own duties. Frowning Cora went to the door and pressed the pad locking the door and it slid open silently. She swallowed nervously when she saw who was standing at her door. "Commander," she squeaked. She cleared her throat and backed away from the entrance. "Please come in."

Shepard entered the room and glanced around. Cora felt instantly on edge. She was embarrassed by the messiness of the room. Heck she was embarrassed by the size of the room. She was so very uncomfortable with him here. He seemed to dwarf the small space and suck out all the oxygen. She swallowed again. "What can I do for you Commander?" He walked further into the room and absently picked up a data pad. "You were at Huerta on the Citadel today." Cora frowned at his odd behavior. "Yes. I was there visiting a friend."

Shepard tossed the data pad on the desk and reached for another. "You were visiting Thane Krios." Cora swallowed. How could he know that? He glanced up at her when she remained quiet. "I was there. I saw you with him. You two looked very – cozy."

Cora took a deep breath. Her chest tightened at the thought of Thane. "Thane is a very dear friend."

Shepard inclined his head. "I had a chance to speak with him after you left. He tells me you're working on a cure for his disease. Imagine my surprise when I learned my behavioral psychologist was researching an alien cure."

Cora swallowed but said nothing. The Commander seemed agitated. His tone was clam but his body language belied that calm. He was stalking the room like a great cat on the hunt. He was circling his prey searching for the opportunity to pounce. Worse still his eyes told her she was the prey. He took a step toward her and she instinctively took a step back. He kept advancing as she kept retreating until her back was flush against the wall and she had nowhere left to go. Shepard stood before her stiffly, only mere inches from her. He let his gaze roam her face. Finally he looked into her eyes. "Did you know he is in love with you?"

Cora gaped at him. How could he know that? "Did he – did he tell you that," she asked dumbfounded.

"Thane and I have been through a lot together, Doctor. It's hard to hide something like that from a person when you've faced death together."

Cora swallowed at a loss for words. Thane's admission had been hard to hear and even harder to accept. He had been such a large influence in her life in the short time she had known him that she looked to him as a guardian more than a lover. The first time she had seen him she had felt safe. When she had finally come back to herself she had fallen in love with him, how could she not, he had saved her life. But he had always kept their relationship platonic and she always felt he viewed her as a sister not a woman. To discover she was wrong was shocking to say the least. She had been completely honest with him when she told him she would have found a way. She would have found a way to be with Thane Krios because he was worth it.

Shepard watched her closely then took another half step closer. "Are you in love with him?"

Cora watched the coiled tension in the Commander. His behavior was so at odds with anything she had ever seen from him before. She was at a loss as to explain it but her relationship with Thane was something she wasn't ready to talk about and certainly not with this man. She gulped. "That's – that's none of your business."

Shepard scowled and moved forward another step – crowding her. "I have seen you naked on several occasions. I have tasted you in the most intimate ways. I have put my cock inside you in every way possible and you think knowing if you're in love with another man isn't my business?" He stepped forward again and pushed her up against the wall. "Edi, seal the room and engage privacy mode," he growled.

"Yes Commander," the disembodied voice replied.

Shepard stared at her, his gaze intense, full of purpose. Cora gulped. He was so close his heat was seeping into her. She felt her body flush with desire. She wanted him. She ached to have him. Her lips parted as her breathing came harder. His eyes dropped to her lips. A split second later he kissed her. The Commander pushed up against her and kissed her hard, marking her, claiming her. Shepard broke the kiss and stared at her. Cora stood breathless aching from his kiss. She wanted more. She wanted it all. "Have you been with him? Has he had you Doctor?"

Cora swallowed. She was consumed with desire for The Commander and he wanted to talk about Thane? She shook her head frustrated. "What I've done with Thane is between him and me."

Shepard crowded her again and kissed her. He broke the kiss and spun her around. He leaned into her and suckled her earlobe. Cora closed her eyes lost in the sensation of him at her back. "Have you thought of him when you've been with me" he growled.

He ground himself against her. Cora groaned. She couldn't breathe. Both his kisses had been demanding – consuming. She ached for him painfully.

Shepard reached around to grab her breast. He squeezed her nipple as his other hand wrapped around her neck. "Your species are incompatible Doctor." He squeezed her nipple again. Cora groaned as her body burned. "He can touch you," he breathed in her ear, then licked her earlobe. "He can taste you," he whispered as he kissed along her neck. He let his hand drift down her body. He slowly began lifting her skirt. "He can give you pleasure Doctor, but he can never give you what you want." He leaned in. "What you truly want," he whispered as he ground himself against her.

Cora gasped at the sensation. She was throbbing and drenched and she wanted him – needed him. She knew the kind of pleasure he could give her.

Shepard pushed her against the wall again. She felt him everywhere. Her body screamed for him. If he didn't do something soon she would be consumed in flames. Cora had been so lost in her lust she hadn't realized he had backed off enough to release himself from his pants. She felt his heat between her legs along her slit. By the stars she needed him.

"Remember doctor," he growled. "He can never give you what you want." Cora gasped as he thrust into her filling her – stretching her. "He can never give you what I give you." The Commander pushed into Cora deeply. She moaned. His smooth voice whispering in her ear was driving her mad. The feelings were so intense she was at the brink. She gasped for breath as he moved inside her. He reached down and fondled her clit. She groaned. One more swirl of his masterful fingers and she shattered convulsing around him. She felt him quicken his pace. "He can't give you what you want Doctor. He can't give you what I can," he growled. Cora felt The Commander stiffen as he released into her causing her body to convulse anew. He leaned into her breathing hard. "When you see him again, remember what you want Doctor." Shepard pulled out. Cora groaned at the loss. She heard a zipper then felt him against her back again. "Remember who gives you what you want Doctor and remember… I don't share – ever" he added menacingly then backed off and left the room.

Cora collapsed against the wall still trying to catch her breath. She closed her eyes tightly. What had just happened?

- Chapter 05 -

Cora left the crew quarters headed for Med Bay where she was to meet with Eve. It had been over two weeks since they left the Citadel. She had been working on Thane's cure with little luck.

She was distracted. She hadn't heard or even seen the Commander since the day he had come to her quarters. She was still at a loss as to what had happened. She couldn't explain his behavior. He had sounded almost jealous but the Commander was a man in complete control. He didn't suffer fits and certainly not jealous ones. She thought about him constantly, about his parting words to her. Part of her wanted to believe he had said them because there was more between them than just sex but it had been two weeks since she had last seen him. She may fantasize about there being more but her rational mind made sure she understood there was simply nothing there. She had to constantly remind herself that she had gone to him to help him. He had finally begun to sleep on his own. After two weeks without summoning her she could only hope he was still sleeping.

It was time to move on. She knew it was past time actually. After Thane's revelation she found she was more confused than ever. She loved Thane deeply. He had always been there for her but there was no denying she was attracted to the Commander. Yes she wanted the Commander but she could never have a life with him. But Thane, Thane would be good to her. He could actually love her – did love her. He accepted her for who she was. She never felt she had to be anyone other than who she was with him. She let out a slow tension filled breath. Now if she could just cure him before he died.

Cora rounded the corner and froze. She swallowed as Lt. Commander Williams and Commander Shepard realized they were no longer alone. They had been kissing passionately when she rounded the corner. She swallowed. "Apologies," she breathed as she moved past them and rushed to Med Bay. She reached the bay and took a deep breath. So Commander Shepard and Ashley Williams she thought darkly. That explained why he had not summoned her. She closed her eyes as her chest tightened painfully. She let out a deep breath. She couldn't stay on the ship now. She covered her face with her hands as indecision flooded her. She was being ridiculous. The Normandy had the best resources to help her find the cure. Regardless of how difficult this would be she had to find the cure. She let out a deep breath and entered the lab. She needed to spend some time with Eve. Eve always had a way of calming her.

Cora sat with Eve chatting about her world and its long history. After about an hour Eve patted her hand. "What troubles you doctor?"

Cora smiled faintly. "Oh Eve, the challenges I face are so miniscule in comparison to what you have endured."

Eve inclined her head. "It is said that hearing the troubles of others often helps one deal with their own."

Cora smiled. "Misery loves company."

"Indeed. Now tell me what troubles you."

Cora swallowed. "I find I am in a bit of a tangle," she offered uncomfortably. "I chose to do something to help someone and now things have gotten – complicated. I feel I am at an impasse. I must make a choice but both paths will prove difficult," she added sadly. Difficult didn't' begin to describe what she would be forced to endure. In order to save Thane she needed the resources of the Normandy. But staying meant constant reminders of what she and the Commander had shared and that he had now moved on and worse still that she still wanted him.

"Change is never easy Doctor," Eve said bringing Cora out of her troubling thoughts. "But without change we cannot grow. Through pain and suffering we become strong. We must never shy from the path placed before us. We must face it head on."

Cora gave Eve a small smile. "Thank you Eve. I believe I will leave you now. I have some thinking to do."

Eve inclined her head, "of course Doctor."

Cora stood and patted Eve's hand then turned to leave. She froze mid-step when she noticed the Commander standing in the doorway. She let out a slow breath and approached. She inclined her head to him. "Commander," she said as she walked past him.

Drew watched as Dr. Bradley stiffened when she saw him then greet him stiffly as she left. He clinched his teeth. Why was this woman plaguing him so? He had decided to keep his distance after their last encounter. He had been angry and he had gone to her. He had basically attacked her. He'd had an unnatural need to show her who she truly wanted. To prove to her that Thane could never give her what she wanted. He had left her quarters disgusted with himself and even angrier with her. She did this to him. Drew was a man who prided himself on his control and yet this woman reduced him to his most base nature. He didn't like the man he became when he was around her so he had sought Ash. Ashley was everything he could ever want in a woman. She was smart, dedicated, loyal, strong and beautiful. She had been more than willing and he had finally gotten to kiss her only to be discovered by Dr. Bradley. His annoyance had gone through the roof, but he had also felt guilt and then the anger had settled in. Why should he feel guilt for being with Ash? He and Dr. Bradley weren't in a relationship. He had every right to do whatever he liked with whomever he liked. He kept telling himself that yet the agitation had stayed with him. He hadn't expected to see Dr. Bradley again so soon or at all for that matter. Since their last encounter he hadn't seen her at all. Of course he had been busy and if he were honest he had been avoiding her. He clinched his teeth. It was his damned ship. Why was he going out of his way to avoid the woman? That thought just served to annoy him further. Based on her cold greeting she wasn't completely immune to what had happened between them and that just confused him. His agitation grew. This back and forth was ridiculous. He had a job to do which was why he wanted to visit Eve. It was time to get back to work. He swallowed his annoyance and approached Eve.

"Commander, it is good to see you," she said as he neared.

"And you Eve. Is everything all right?"

She inclined her head to him. "Of course Commander."

"I ask because you were with Dr. Bradley just now." Drew swallowed a groan. Where the hell had that question come from? Who the hell cared if Dr. Bradley visited.

"Dr. Bradley often visits. We talk. She has an inner peace I find soothing," Eve answered oblivious to Drew's dark thoughts.

"Dr. Bradley has inner peace," Drew asked not quite able to hide his surprise. Inner peace was not exactly one of the attributes he would associate to the woman. But then again they never really talked much. They had always been busy doing "other" things. Drew stifled a groan as he felt the stirrings of desire at the memory.

Eve inclined her head. "She has suffered greatly in her young life and yet she has overcome it to become the woman she is today."

Drew's brow furrowed. "Suffered, how do you know? Did she tell you?"

Eve faced Drew squarely. "When you have endured the kind of suffering I have, you gain the ability to recognize it in others."

Drew swallowed as his gut bottomed out. "What you went through was beyond barbaric. Are you saying Dr. Bradley has suffered the same?" He watched Eve closely as his mind raced. Cora Bradley couldn't have suffered as Eve had. Cora showed no outward sign of suffering a trauma like Eve had and he had seen her naked. He knew not a scar or welt marred her luscious body. Could it be possible? He didn't want to believe it – couldn't believe it.

Eve blinked slowly. "There are many levels of suffering Commander. She may not have endured what I did but that does not lessen the level of her suffering. Dr. Bradley has faced tragedy Commander. It has been that tragedy that has given her the strength she has now."

Drew thought of the object of their conversation. Dr. Bradley had always been nothing more than a scientist, a visiting one at that. He knew she was on Normandy, he knew everything that happened on his ship but he had never spared her a thought. That was until she had come to his cabin to help him sleep. He had noticed her then and though he didn't know her well he knew the crew liked her. He had thought her mousy once but what she had done by coming to him had taken guts. Yes Dr. Bradley may appear to be a mousy scientist but Eve was right, she was strong too. He let out a deep breath. "Thank you Eve, I honestly had no idea." Eve inclined her head to him. Drew gave her a tight smile and turned to leave the lab headed for his quarters. It was time to take Thane's advice and do a little research.

Cora roamed the bowels of the ship. She absently ran her hand along the smooth casing of one of the many boxes of cargo in the hold, her mind a blur. She was at odds. She didn't want to be on the ship anymore she thought morosely, wandering deeper into the cargo hold. This place mirrored her mood perfectly. It was dark and gloomy. She shivered at the cold. The cargo hold was always cold. The ship barely spared any resources here. There was no need to keep cargo warm. She had often wandered down here to be alone. It was always quiet. Rarely did she ever encounter another down here and she liked it that way. It allowed her to think. Cora frowned as the current situation surged to the forefront of her thoughts. Seeing the Commander with Ashley Williams kissing had affected Cora more than she wanted to admit. She kept telling herself it shouldn't matter, after all she and Commander Shepard were lovers at best. She grimaced at the thought. Even that term didn't seem appropriate. Lovers implied they shared more than a bed but she and Commander Shepard barely shared that. She could leave the Normandy and ask for space at the Huerta medical facility on the Citadel but she would lose all the valuable resources the Normandy had to offer. She let out a frustrated breath. Why did she have to get attached? Why couldn't she have kept it clinical? She rubbed her forehead exhausted. One thing was certain she had to do something. She had been in a daze for the past two days neglecting her research and her research was too important. She was running out of time.

She rounded the corner and ran right into a group of young people. She glanced around at them and her heart jumped into her throat – biotic's. She swallowed. "If you'll excuse me," she said nervously as she tried to go around them but one of them side stepped into her path.

"What's the rush," he said grinning.

Cora glanced around the group again. They were in the cargo hold with no one else around. Her palms began to sweat as the fear began to consume her. She glanced around again nervously.

One of them chuckled. "She's scared shitless." The others chuckled. They circled her and began to taunt her. "Are you going to cry little girl," one of them taunted.

Cora's fear began to drag her down. The memories where surging forward – drowning her. She looked around wide eyed as her breathing quickened. They continued to taunt her then one of them reached for her glasses. Instinct took over and she slapping his hand away. His eyes shot open in surprise. She took a deep breath. She would not be afraid. These were not the ones from her past. She could control this situation. That's why she had become a behavioral psychologist. She could talk her way out of this she just needed to assess the situation clearly. She looked at each of them, studying them closely. They were all young and clearly biotic but why were they down here? She frowned. "You are all biotic and powerful, why are you down in the cargo hold?"

"Why are you in the cargo hold," one of them retorted.

Cora turned to face the young man and shrugged. "I had some thinking to do and wanted to be alone." The boy snorted. He saw right through her. She sighed. "I suppose I was hiding."

They began to shuffle uncomfortably. Her eyes widened in surprise. "You're hiding too? But why? Why would you hide?"

One of them scowled. "We're not hiding."

"Yeah you are," a female voice called out. They all turned to see a young woman approaching. Cora took in the new arrival. She too was a biotic yet she was not like these men, she was confidant standing tall, in command. Cora's assessment was proven when she reached the group and punched the nearest young man then turned to face Cora. "We're being deployed to the front lines in a few days. We didn't even finish the academy and we're headed to the thick of the fighting."

Cora's brows shot up. They seemed so very young and yet they were being sent to the front lines? She swallowed and shook her head slowly. "I don't pretend to understand Alliance strategy. Yes you are young but clearly capable. Someone out there believes you are ready. The Alliance needs all the help it can get. They aren't going to sacrifice anyone. They wouldn't send you unless they believed you capable." She turned to face each of them taking in their implants and appearances. "Besides, you are biotic's. There isn't anything you can't do," she said a little in awe.

They young men smiled and puffed out their chests and began shoving each other playfully. The young woman reached out a hand to her. "I'm Sam Gutierrez."

Cora took her hand and shook. "Cora Bradley." She turned in a circle as each male introduced himself. She smiled at each. "I have no doubt you will all be a great asset to the Alliance."

They grinned in response.

Cora smiled sheepishly. "I should get going."

"Hey Cora Bradley, we're going to Purgatory before we are deployed. Join us and see us off," Sam said cheerfully.

Cora smiled. She had never been in a nightclub before. It would be a unique experience. "I have work to do on the Citadel but I'll see what I can do."

"We'll message you to remind you," Sam responded. Cora smiled and nodded then left the cargo hold.