A/N: Hi folks. Sorry for not posting more updates these past few days. I've been sick (and still am sick). Here you go:


That evening Picard joined her and Dr Crusher once more for dinner. Alex didn't look up as she ate, focusing on eating her food. Picard made awkward conversation with Dr Crusher through dinner and into dessert which Alex elected to pass. She was starting to look slightly drawn which worried Dr Crusher. As soon as she thought it was late enough not to appear rude, Alex excused herself and went to bed, even though she just lay there listening to Dr Crusher and Picard talk for a few minutes. It didn't take long for him to feel uncomfortable and leave again.


The next few evenings went along similar lines until they arrived at the Starbase for repairs. Since they were there for a while, it gave all the crew some free time. Picard had been getting tenser progressively throughout the week as the day of Alex's moving in approached. That morning she packed up the things she had into her backpack and a small bag Dr Crusher had replicated for her. Picard came and carried her guitar to his quarters, Alex following in silence. When they entered she didn't have much of a chance to look around the living area, Picard heading briskly to what was to be her room. He placed the guitar down beside her door. It resembled the room Alex'd had in Dr Crusher's quarters, but everything seemed... straighter.

"Here's your room," Picard said a little gruffly as Alex looked around with wide eyes from where she stood. He left her alone, going back to his own business. A sinking feeling of loneliness was settling in her stomach.

Alex remained in her room the whole day, setting up her computer (which had now been equipped with a charging device) on her desk. She got herself a light lunch from the replicator, but ended up putting most of it in the recycler. Early in the evening, the door bell sounded. Alex made her way to the living area.

"Hello?" she called uncertainly. The doors opened, revealing Counselor Troi. Alex breathed a quiet sigh of relief seeing the familiar friendly face.

"I came to see how you were," Deanna told Alex. "Is Captain Picard here?" she stepped in, looking around.

"He's out," Alex said quickly.

"Really," Deanna said, disapproving rife as she crossed her arms and raised her eyebrows.

"He left this morning just after I got here. I don't know where he is, he didn't say," Alex added.

"He left you here by yourself?" Deanna asked, eyebrows raised. Alex nodded. I need to have a word with him about parenting techniques, Deanna thought to herself. She glanced over at the chronometer. "Will is performing a set in Ten Forward tonight. Dr Crusher and I are attending. Would you like to come?"

"Do I need Captain Picard's permission?" Alex inquired. Deanna considered this a few moments.

"As ship's Counselor, I think it'll be good for you," she reasoned. "I'll send a message to him, so he knows where you are."