Holly Short's Diary
Why didn't I remember the cameras? That one little slip up in all these years, foiled by my own technology. I'd like to be able to say it was all a mistake, a fluke, something that I never wanted to happen. But it felt too right to be wrong. Listen to me, thinking up these stinkworm-brained clichés! But... why would they be "cliché" if there wasn't a genuine element of truth to them?
Trouble sat behind Root's old desk. Ironically, he had taken to fungus cigars (one of the few things Holly DIDN'T miss about Julius Root) He propped his legs on the creaking wood and Holly bit her lip to keep from shouting out " So am I fired?"
Eventually, Kelp decided he would grace the two with his words.
"Holly, you're my best officer" Holly prepared herself for those two little words "I would hate to loose you" just say it! "so I'm going to help you clear this up. Think of it as an intervention." Both Holly's and Artemis's mouths dropped slightly, but Artemis recovered faster.
"What is your course of action for the intervention?" Artemis looked strait into his eyes, acting brave, but hidden deep within himself he was worried about what an intervention might mean to Trouble. Kelp glared at Artemis as if he was trying to forget that he was there and turned back to Holly.
"I'm sending you away for awhile. You need a break. Obviously all the stress has clouded your judgment and you acted on impulse, a dangerous move for an officer." Holly was astonished, she could handle of week or two off, she hoped it wouldn't be more.
"Where exactly are you sending me?"
"Oh you'll be happy with my choice." He paused for dramatic effect "Above ground" She was beginning to like this idea. Fresh air was probably all she needed to get over her silly teenage crush on Artemis, but all those "I love you"s could she take those back? She did love Arty, but as a friend or as a lover?
"Alright Commander. Artemis and I will be on the next shuttle out of here. But you failed to mention when I should return." Kelp lowered his feet and sat strait in the chair.
"This is the part you may not like. It has to be done though. I need you on top of your game 24/7." Holly swallowed; she was on top of her game she thought…
"I want you to stay above ground for a year."
Artemis almost smiled but he knew how hard this would be on Holly. A year, Holly would never make it. But perhaps, he could help her. He doubted that anything would be done about the sparks between the two of them in a year other then perhaps make them stronger. He had come to terms with the fact that Holly was the only person he had ever felt feelings this strong towards before, he doubted anyone else could take her place.
Holly almost cried. A year! She would never make it! Even with Artemis helping her she feared she would go insane, or end up taking steps backwards. Why didn't Kelp see that? He had an odd sort of shine in his eye, he grinned at her and winked. Wow, something's up with the commander… she was so confused! Well it didn't matter much, at least she would have Artemis for a whole year.
