He rubbed his chin absent-mindedly as the elevator ascended up the tower. He was still feeling torn about what happened. In part he was still glad he had hit him. Still angry that the rumours were true. Still angry that he was working for them. It felt like a stab in the back. That everything they had worked towards was a lie. In part he was disappointed in his own reaction, lashing out like he did. He knew it was out of character. He knew Shepard was left in shock. He also didn't blame him for hitting him back. He chuckled to himself as he remembered that it was a good couple of punches. He'd never been on the receiving end from him before. But he also saw the sadness and disappointment in his eyes as he walked away. But he couldn't in all good conscience join him. Not while he was with them. He figured that Shepard understood why, even after everything. But it didn't make it any easier. One word still resonated with him.

Abandoned.

That was a kick in the guts for both of them. He was aware of Shepard's past. His life prior to the Alliance. Everyone was now aware, and to hear him use that word, in such a venomous way against him, cut him up inside. He was left feeling unsure if Shepard truly meant it or whether it was just the anger of the moment.

The elevator completed its ascent, the doors dinging as they opened, Kaidan stepping out and approaching the receptionist. She looked up and smiled. "Commander Alenko. The Councillor is expecting you." He just nodded his thanks as he walked past, continuing down the hallway to the Councillor's office. The door was open, knocking on the door as he entered, the Councillor looking up. He came to a stop and gave a quick salute. He didn't have to, but it was force of habit and also a sign of respect.

"Commander Alenko," Anderson stated, returning the salute, "You know you no longer have to do that, right? Don't get me wrong, the gesture is appreciated."

Alenko grinned slightly. "Force of habit, sir."

"I know what you mean," he stated, striding around his desk. The two shook hands before Anderson gestured at an empty chair near his desk. "Please take a seat. I've just been reading over your mission report." He took one of the chairs available, Anderson sitting in his comfortable looking leather chair, leaning forward, resting on his elbows as he looked down at the report, and then glanced back at him. "So, this makes for some interesting reading."

"He's alive, sir. And he's with Cerberus."

"I know. And he isn't," Anderson replied.

"Shepard told me you know. I have to admit my surprise," he replied, still unable to hide his astonishment that the Councillor was aware, "But how do you know? And how do you know he's not with Cerberus? I know what I saw. It's all there," he stated, pointing at the datapad lying on the desk.

"It's a long story, Commander. But I can assure you that Shepard is not… willingly working with them. But he's doing what has to be done in regards to the Collector threat. You know Shepard well enough to know that he won't sit back and do nothing. There are extenuating circumstances as to why he's with them. As I said, long story."

Alenko was still perturbed that the Councillor appeared fine with the idea of Shepard working with Cerberus. "I don't get it, sir. You're… okay with him working with Cerberus?"

Anderson shook his head. "Of course not. I'd rather he was back here with us, working for the Alliance. But he's doing a good job out there, even while he's with them."

He was silent as he thought. "Okay, Councillor. Fair enough. Can I at least know the truth? You know, about everything regarding Shepard being alive?"

"Of course. But better yet, why don't I get Shepard to join us? At least let him explain what's happened in the past two years."

"I don't know if that's a good idea, sir."

"Why not?"

"Our meeting on Horizon didn't end in the best of circumstances… Punches may have been thrown for starters. I, uh, didn't think I should put that in the report."

He didn't miss the surprised look on the Councillors face. "Suppose I shouldn't be that surprised."

"Best punch I've been on the receiving end of, sir."

Now Anderson chuckled. "I bet. But how did your meeting end after that?"

He sighed. "After going off at me, he looked... disappointed more than anything." Anderson simply nodded, appearing to understand. "Do you think he'd agree to meet with me?"

"Of course. I'm sure Shepard would like to clear the air after what happened. And he has already asked after you. I couldn't tell him what you were doing though. I told him it was confidential. He understood."

He suddenly felt a pang of guilt. "He did?"

"Of course. He wanted his old team back, particularly while he was with what is effectively the enemy. He needs people around him he can trust. That is why Tali and Garrus are with him now."

"What does the Alliance think?"

"How about we discuss it all when Shepard gets here. That fair?"

He nodded his agreement as Anderson started typing an email.

48 hours later and Alenko was sat in a relatively plain conference room, a couple of doors up from Anderson's office. The large table sat in the centre of the room, chairs dotted around with a couple of plants at either end of the room. Apart from one or two pictures on the walls, there was little else to give it character. Like the Presidium in general.

The Councillor explained that Shepard would also bring Tali and Garrus along for their meeting, in case he had any questions for them too. Alenko didn't mind as he would like to speak to them as well. He just didn't want to speak with anyone actually with Cerberus. In the end, he just hoped the meeting today went smoother than their reunion on Horizon. He still felt slightly guilty for his reaction but also believed he was right. Cerberus couldn't be trusted. He still wondered why Shepard seemed so sure that their intentions were noble. Surely he remembered everything they discovered during their chase for Saren? It was just one of the multitude of questions he would likely bombard him with.

Anderson was sitting on the other side of the table, tapping his hand absent-mindedly, obviously some sort of tune in mind, as they waited for Shepard to appear.

"How is he?" he asked. Anderson raised an eyebrow.

"You mean Shepard?"

"Of course. When did you speak to him last?"

"We swap the occasional email. He keeps me up to date with what he's doing, though he has to be careful how much he actually tells me. Cerberus would obviously monitor all his communications. I haven't actually seen him in a couple of weeks."

"He comes to the Citadel often?"

Anderson shook his head. "Probably not as often as he'd like. The Council said he could come and go as he pleases, but considering who he works with, it was judged that the best thing for all parties was for him to keep his time in Council space to a minimum if possible. It wasn't an order, just a suggestion. From the sounds of it, he has respected our wishes."

"What about the man himself?"

Anderson chuckled. "He'll be here in a minute, Kaidan. Just have some patience. Ask him yourself."

He just nodded and kept quiet, leaning back in the chair as Anderson resumed his tapping. It wasn't long until the intercom in the middle of the table buzzed, Anderson leaning forward.

"Yes?"

"Commander Shepard is on his way up, Councillor."

"Thank you, Ms. Simonsen." He flicked off the intercom and looked at Alenko. "Ready, Commander?"

He stood up, circling around the table though standing several paces back from the door, leaving space for Anderson to greet the Commander first. He heard voices echoing down the hallway through the already open door, Shepard appearing not long afterwards with the appearance of being agitated or irritated by something.

"I think you handled her quite well, Shepard," Tali stated.

"I know I did, but the question was completely out of line. Humanity wasn't the only one to suffer by my decision. Turians. Salarians. Asari. All suffered losses during the battle."

"But we recognised humanity was at the forefront, Shepard, which is why you got the seat on the Council," Garrus added.

"She was simply trying to wind you up, Shepard. Get you to say something out of turn," Tali said, clearly trying to calm him down.

The Commander took a deep breath. "I know. Still felt like hitting her though. I wouldn't, as I know she's just doing her job, but the thought crossed my mind."

"I'm glad you didn't, Shepard," Anderson stated, interrupting their conversation. Alenko noticed his face light up when he finally noticing the Councillor approach him.

"Anderson! How are you?" he asked, holding out a hand. Alenko couldn't help but notice the warmth of the handshake and the grins on their faces. Always knew they were close. It was obvious considering how upset he was at the funeral.

"I'm well, Shepard. I'm well. You?"

Shepard shrugged. "Things are alright, I guess. As good as can be expected." His eyes then shifted across the room, falling on Alenko. The Commander walked across the room, stopping a pace short.

"Kaidan."

He nodded. "Shepard."

Shepard held out a hand. Kaidan immediately accepted it. A good way to break the ice between the pair. At least he doesn't look angry with me. He noticed Shepard grin slightly. "It's good to see you again."

He tried to hide the surprise at the statement. "You too, Shepard," he replied. It wasn't a lie. He wanted to bury the hatchet. He wanted to understand why. And he remembered the most important thing. At one time, he'd been a very good friend.

"Your jaw still sore?" Shepard asked, chuckling as he rubbed his cheek, "Mine still aches from time to time. Hell of a right hook you've got there."

He couldn't help but chuckle. "Thought you were going to take my head off in response for a second, Shepard."

Shepard just nodded his head. "Yeah… Listen, Kaidan, I was a bit of a dick on Horizon."

"You were? Come on, Shepard, I know I was way out of line as well. I mean... You were my CO at one time. But it's still a lot to take in."

"And that's why we're all here," Anderson announced, "So we can discuss everything that's happened, basically since the day the old Normandy was blown apart and you were declared dead, Shepard."

"Although he is looking might fine for a dead man," Tali stated. Alenko just stared at her as he didn't miss the tone. She noticed his stare as she stepped forward to stand next to Shepard and grabbed his hand. Shepard automatically grinned as he glanced at her.

"You finally told her, Shepard?" He nodded. "About time!"

"It was worth the wait, Kaidan," they said almost in unison.

"Only now we have to put up with it all out in the open. It's hell, Kaidan. Hell," Garrus muttered. Kaidan just chuckled as the turian shook his head.

"Alright, alright. Why don't we sit down, we'll get some coffee in and we'll have a good chat about what's happened. I know Kaidan has a lot of questions, and I know Shepard would also like to explain things as well. Perhaps discussing it here won't result in a series of punches being thrown again, right?" Everyone had a laugh at the two Commander's expense. Anderson leaned forward, pressing the intercom. "Ms. Simonsen, could you bring in a round of coffee please?"

"Right away, Councillor. That'll be two dextro coffees too?"

The Councillor glanced at Tali and Garrus, who both nodded. "Yes, Ms. Simonsen. Thanks."

"There in a minute, Councillor."

Anderson sat back in his chair, arching his fingers as he looked across the table at Shepard. "So what have you been up to since Horizon?"

Shepard shrugged. "Not much, actually. Had to tend to one or two wounds. Not just for myself but one or two of my squad got hit as well. Mordin has started his research into some of the samples we gathered. No results yet, it's still early days but he's hopeful of answers soon. Not sure what those answers will be, but no doubt Mordin will end up talking for hours on end. And I'm waiting for Tim to get in contact about gathering more recruits for the mission."

Alenko leaned forward. "If you don't mind me asking, Shepard, how did you know about the Collector attack? Or, more to the point, how did you know the Collectors were there?"

Shepard visibly angered for a second, his hand laying on the table balling into a fist for a second, a flash of anger in his eyes. But he calmed just as quickly. "Because Tim is a conniving son of a bitch who used you and the colony as bait for the Collectors."

"Son of a bitch," Anderson muttered under his breath.

"Does he even care about the colonists?" Alenko asked.

Shepard shrugged. "In his own weird sort of way he does care about what is happening. But it's obvious we work in different ways. He was quite happy to sacrifice the entire colony for knowledge about the Collectors. In a way, I understand why he did it. But I don't agree. That's not how I work."

"What do we know about this Illusive Man?" Alenko asked Anderson.

"Barely anything. We never even heard of the organisation until after the First Contact War, so the assumption is that it was formed in response to the turian occupation of Shanxi and it developed from there. We've never been able to full understand how the organisation works but we know they've been responsible for countless acts of terrorism, espionage, assassinations and embezzlement. I don't suppose you've had any luck find out anything yet, Shepard?"

The Commander shook his head. "None. As I said, any information I'd like to get my hands on is safely locked away on board the ship computer. Not even Tali can crack it."

"And trust me, I've tried. EDI always catches me out though," Tali stated ruefully.

The conversation came to a halt for a second as the receptionist wheeled in a trolley with drinks for everyone. Anderson offered to make drinks, and once everyone had received a steaming mug of the black stuff, the conversation resumed.

"Okay Shepard, how about we get to what we're here for," Alenko stated. Shepard grinned slightly but nodded, making a gesture for him to continue. "The biggest question I have in mind is quite simple. How or why are you with Cerberus? How did you end up with them?"

"Do you want the long or short version?"

"Just the truth, Shepard. That's all I want."

"And you'll believe what I have to say?" Alenko was surprised to hear him sound so unsure. He looked at Anderson, who gave a brief nod, before returning his attention to Shepard.

"I'll believe whatever you tell me, Shepard. You have no reason to lie to me."

He grinned slightly again. "Thanks, Kaidan. You have no idea how much… well, you get the idea."

"Alright, alright. How about we just get on with it," Garrus added with a chuckle.

"Okay, first thing. How did I end up in Cerberus hands? I honestly have no idea. Tim hasn't informed me of how. Neither has Miranda. And there's no point asking anyone else as it's unlikely they'd be aware."

"Seriously?" Alenko asked in disbelief.

Shepard nodded. "I've asked. They won't tell me. Trust me, I don't like it either. I'm just left wondering why and who was involved. For example, I know it was none of you in this room."

"Why the secrecy?"

He shrugged. "No idea why. I don't see why it is such a secret. And as for why I'm actually working with them, that's… a tricky one. But it's pretty much as I've already explained. I'm only with them to fight the Collectors. Trust me, once that is done, I'm gone."

"So where were you for two years? I mean, was your death entirely fabricated? When I heard of your connection with Cerberus, I was hoping you were at least working undercover, trying to bring them down from the inside."

"I was hoping that was the case as well, Kaidan," Tali added.

"As far as I know, I was dead. Or as dead as anyone can be. Two years, twelve days in total, from what Jacob told me."

"Then how on earth are you here right now?"

"Can't explain that one, Kaidan. You could try asking Mordin, as he has access to some of the files regarding my resurrection. I don't understand most of it."

"Okay, Councillor, what is Shepard's status?"

"Well, we reinstated his Spectre status to help him move around without too much hassle. And as regards his position within the Alliance, Admiral Hackett has recently informed me that his status as KIA should be rescinded shortly. But there is currently no agreement on how he should now be classified. There are some who want him arrested and brought to trial for aiding and abetting the enemy. Hackett has explained the situation but some don't buy his story."

"Why's that, sir?" Shepard asked.

Anderson shrugged. "It's politics, Shepard. You should be used to that by now."

Shepard sighed. "Good enough reason to stay dead."

Tali slapped him lightly on the shoulder in rebuke. "Shepard, you promised."

"Sorry," he said quickly, though he had a cheeky grin on his face. He noticed the perplexed look Alenko gave him. He shrugged, the grin widening. "I promised Tali I wouldn't joke about it."

"I think he just has a poor sense of humour at times," Tali stated with a huff, crossing her arms across her chest, the appearance of anger though her tone suggested otherwise.

"You think that's bad? You should hear the awful jokes he constantly tells me. Comedian, this man is not," Garrus added.

"Then why are you always laughing, Garrus?"

"You must be pumping laughing gas into my room or something, Shepard."

Alenko just chuckled, shaking his head. Nothing has changed, it seems. "So you guys are all okay?" he asked.

Shepard nodded slightly. "Listen, Kaidan. As I've told these guys. I'm living by two words at the moment. Bigger picture. The Collectors are not the only enemy involved."

"You mean the Reapers?"

He nodded again. "Bingo. There is no doubt in my mind that the Collectors are somehow working on behalf of them. That is why this is so important. That is why, despite my own feelings about the organisation, I am currently working with Cerberus. Trust me, Kaidan, if I could leave tomorrow but know I could continue the fight against the Collectors, I'd do it in a heartbeat. But, at the moment, that just doesn't seem possible. So I have to make the best of the current situation."

Kaidan was quiet for a moment. "You know I'd like to join you, Shepard, but I can't in all good faith do it while you're with them."

"That's why I'm not going to ask you, Kaidan. I just want to know that your faith and your belief in me is restored."

"Give it time, Shepard. It's still a lot to take in. You are meant to be dead, you know?"

"Don't remind me. That's all I ever hear."

"It's okay, Kaidan. Garrus and I are there to support him. And some of the recruits we're picking up are of a good sort, too. It's not like the old Normandy but we're making the best of the situation."

"Actually, Kaidan, I do have one question for you. I've asked the Councillor, and he doesn't exactly know. Garrus and Tali are completely in the dark as well."

"What is it, Shepard?" Kaidan asked, intrigued.

"Do you know where Liara is? I'm not sure if she'd join up or not, but she's the only one from the old team I haven't seen yet. And I have no idea where she is."

"Don't you want to know about Wrex, too?"

"He's on Tuchanka. It's all good. If I have the time, I'll drop by and see him."

"He is? Good on him. And as for Liara, I have no idea. I hadn't heard from any of the old team once I was given my new orders two years ago."

"Why don't you just ask Tim?" Tali suggested.

"Because I don't want to owe him another favour. I feel I already owe him one as he was the one who told me that you were on Haestrom."

"Would you like me to put out more feelers, Shepard?" Anderson suggested.

Shepard appeared thoughtful for a moment, then shook his head. "No, don't worry about it. Honestly, I'm surprised she hasn't tried to make contact as surely news of my return has now spread everywhere. Maybe she's involved in something else. Or maybe she's alone on another planet, digging again, like she was when we found her the first time."

The conversation petered out as Alenko was relatively happy with the answers he had received. Shepard had been honest and forthright, and he had the support of Tali and Garrus, who both had asserted they would follow him no matter what on the old Normandy, so when he thought about it, them being there with him made sense. He realised that he would just have to accept the current situation for what it was for the time being.

"If we're all done here, why don't we all meet for dinner later?" Anderson suggested, "Garrus, I understand you have a lady friend you could bring along. And… well, I have someone I'd like you to meet, Shepard."

Shepard started to chuckle. "Anderson, you old dog! Found someone, have you?"

"Remember one of our conversations, long ago, about romance and the military?" The Commander nodded. "Well, no longer being in the military, and part of the Alliance, has its perks."

"Who is she?"

"Ah, not yet, Shepard. Not yet. You'll meet her later."

"Sounds good. Though you now have me quite intrigued."

"What about you, Alenko?"

"I'm in, Councillor. Though it'll just be me."

"Have you kept in touch with Rahna?" Shepard asked, sounding genuinely interested.

Alenko knew he blushed slightly. "Er… I may have done. Not as often as I'd like… but yes, we keep in touch."

"Good for you. How are the colonists?"

"Doing well, Shepard, from what she told me."

"And we carried out your wishes regarding the colonists, Shepard. Plenty of support in regards to rebuilding the colony," added Anderson.

Shepard nodded. "Thanks. That's another group of people I would like to eventually see."

The group stood and walked to the door. A series of handshakes were swapped, and with another farewell, Shepard, Tali and Garrus disappeared, heading downstairs to the wards, to collect Chloe and also for a quick bit of shopping, Tali mentioning she required more food tubes. Alenko waited in the conference room with Anderson, who turned his attention to the Commander once again. "So, Kaidan, what do you think?"

"I believe him, sir."

Anderson grinned. "Good. And you're okay with joining us tonight?"

"Absolutely. Just like old times."

"What's the name of the restaurant, Shepard?"

"It's called Gordon's."

"They have dextro food, right?"

She heard him chuckle slightly. "Of course they do, Tali. Anderson wouldn't have picked it otherwise. Garrus is joining us too, remember?"

"Have you ever been to this restaurant before?"

"No. Far too classy for my tastes. But the food is meant to be fantastic, plus there's a dance-floor that I know some of you would probably enjoy."

She couldn't help but look him up and down. "That explains the suit, then." She then couldn't help but chuckle. "But a dance-floor? You're not going to dance, are you?"

"No, I'm not. Well, I probably won't. And I thought you liked the suit?"

"Oh, I do, Shepard. I really do."

He stopped and looked into her eyes as a slight smirk appeared. He hadn't missed the tone. It would have been impossible to miss the… longing in her voice. "We really need to have that discussion." She didn't miss his tone either.

"I'm sorry, Shepard. I wasn't exactly feeling up to it after Horizon."

He grabbed her hand as they resumed walking. "Tali, I understand."

"But I know how patient…"

He came to a stop again, putting a finger to her speaker. "Don't even think about finishing that sentence. We've discussed that already." He grinned as they started walking again. "It'll be worth the wait anyway."

She shook her head slightly. "How can you be so… confident? About everything to do with this?"

He glanced at her as they approached the restaurant. "I just am."

Garrus and Chloe had already arrived and were chatting quietly in the waiting area as Tali and Shepard walked in. Shepard made a joke at the fact Garrus was out of his armour for once while Tali and Chloe chatted like old friends. In a way, they almost were. They didn't have to wait long for Alenko to show up, resplendent in his Alliance blues. Tali noticed any animosity that may have occurred on Horizon between he and Shepard had almost disappeared, the pair sharing a warm handshake and jokes were soon flying between the three males as they waited for Anderson and his date. Typical Shepard. He'll blow up in one moment then he's your best friend again the next.

The Councillor soon appeared, beaming with what seemed pride as he introduced the blonde woman on his arm. He made a point of introducing her to Shepard first.

"Shepard, I would like you to meet Kahlee Sanders."

Tali noticed the surprise on his face, looking at the blonde before returning his attention to the Councillor. "Hang on, you mean…" he trailed off, clearly with more to say but left in what appeared to be complete shock.

Tali figured Anderson's grin expanded even further, if such a thing were possible. "Yes, she is." He glanced at Kahlee. "Kahlee, please meet Commander John Shepard. Back from the dead."

She laughed, slapping Anderson's forearm. "I know who Commander Shepard is, David." She held out a hand. "Delighted to finally meet you, Shepard. David has always spoken highly of you."

Tali noticed the glance shared between the Commander and Councillor as he shook hands with the blonde woman. "Oh, I'm sure he's also shared a lot of other stories, Kahlee."

"Ugh, what is this? The mutual admiration society?" Garrus muttered with a slight chuckle.

Anderson held up a hand. "Okay. Okay. Why don't we go take out seats?"

Tali was introduced to Kahlee, along with the rest of the group, as the concierge walked them to their table. Tali was left relatively speechless by the grandeur of the restaurant. The cutlery alone must have cost thousands of credits, while the décor of the restaurant was of the latest design. She noticed one or two glances thrown her way. I bet they have never see a quarian in here. Shepard must have noticed, as he made a point of holding her hand and returning any glances with a hard stare, the diner soon returning their attention to their own plate.

The group were soon seated in a secluded corner, obviously to retain an element of privacy, Shepard and Anderson sat together, with partners to their side, with Garrus, Chloe and Alenko taking the other places. The conversation was soon flowing between the seven, shared stories of past missions from those of the Alliance, whether current or former, with discussion also falling on current events and the latest updates on the Collectors. There was much laughter and merriment as old friends reunited or could simply enjoy the company of the other.

Surprisingly, Tali found the meals provided were exquisite. She heard Shepard grumble about a simple 'steak and chips' but managed to find something he liked on the menu, while her own meal was just to her taste and prepared perfectly for own dietary and sanitary needs. Even Garrus found something he enjoyed, despite being in the same camp as Shepard as 'wanting a simple bloody meal' and being his usual difficult self in being unable to make a decision. She was left wondering how indecisive he was while he was alone on a date with Chloe.

With the meals complete, the group moved into the adjoining room where the dance-floor was located. The lights were turned down low, though not too dark not to find their way around. The stage ahead was well-lit, a brass band already in place and playing a tune. She was unsure what the tune was but it had a certain vibe and beat that already had plenty of people up and dancing. Meanwhile, a bar sat off to one side, Shepard and Anderson immediately moving off to buy a round of drinks and the rest found a table, the two men returning soon afterwards with a tray of drinks. Garrus and Chloe had one sip before they were up and dancing, while Alenko found he had plenty of admirers, eventually heading off to dance with a ravishing brunette. Shepard and Anderson were still talking between themselves, Tali sighing to herself every so often. This is one of the times I wish he was able to dance. But she made do with sipping on her drink. She wasn't going to hold this one fault against him, if you could call it a fault. Not everyone could dance, after all. Eventually even Anderson and Kahlee disappeared, leaving Shepard and Tali alone together.

"You want to dance?" he asked.

She had to stifle a chuckle. "Are you serious, Shepard?"

"Of course. I know you want to be up there and dancing, Tali. If you don't want to dance with me, why don't you ask someone else? I'm sure there are plenty of men who would be delighted to dance with you."

"I'll only dance with you, Shepard," she replied quietly.

He stood up and offered his hand. "Well, come on then!"

She followed him, hand in hand, onto the dance floor, finding just enough space. "Nothing extravagant, Shepard. Just try not to step on my feet."

"Oh ye of little faith, Tali."

She felt an arm wrap around her, his left hand placed in the middle of her back, grabbing her other hand with his right. She realised he wasn't going to do anything except hold her in his arms. It was simply a time to enjoy the music and enjoy each other, away from all the worries of the galaxy. She simply rested her head on his chest as they slowly swayed to the music, simple foot movements and swaying the only 'dancing' involved. She kept an eye on the others on the dance floor.

"So what do you think of Kahlee?" she asked, noticing Anderson and Kahlee in the middle of the floor. She noticed her laugh at a joke he made before they shared quite the intense kiss. She couldn't help but sigh at the sight. If only it was that easy for us.

"You okay, Tali?" he asked. She noticed the concern in his tone.

"Yeah, just watching those two over there."

He glanced across, noticing the obvious affection between his old Captain and his new partner. "Anderson told me at the bar that I was the inspiration behind him asking her out."

She moved her head back. "Why?"

"He told me before… that I would regret not telling you how I felt. That was the first feeling I felt when I woke back up. Regret. Mostly because I didn't know where you were, what you were up to. I figured out straight away you'd be back on the fleet, but as to anything else," he just shrugged his shoulders.

She lowered her head. "Oh…," she said quietly. She felt him lift her head with a finger. She noticed he was smiling.

"No regrets now, remember?"

She smiled ever so slightly in response. "I remember."

"Anyway, he had always put the military first. It was understandable. It was a sacrifice he was willing to make. She also understood. In the end, they were both military people. And it just wouldn't have worked between them. Not just because of fraternisation, but they would usually be in two different parts of the galaxy. Doing god knows what. Because that's just how it is. But once he became Councillor, and once I was gone, he finally found the courage to do something about it. As he said, he didn't want to live with regret. So he called her up and asked her out."

"I guess she agreed straight away?"

"They were like us, in a way. Both scared of how they really felt about each other."

"Did you know of her?"

He nodded. "He didn't talk about her often but there was no doubt she was the one. Or, as he said, the one who got away."

"What does she do?"

"She works at an Alliance facility called Grissom Academy. They work with young biotics."

"And how do they know each other?"

"Not sure of the entire story but it had something to do with his failed bid to become a Spectre. He never mentioned that specifically but he always mentioned her by name. They kept in contact but it was sporadic at best."

"And the future?"

"No idea. But he loves her. And her feelings for him in return are the same. Guess we'll just wait and see."

"Good. I'm glad."

"He deserves it. He deserves happiness, even if it's only fleeting. He deserves the love returned to him that he's giving her. He's always put everyone else first. The Alliance. Humanity. The Council. The galaxy as a whole. He's a good man. A great man. A leader. I'd follow him through hell itself. He wouldn't even have to ask. I'd be first in line, gun in hand, ready to face the entire galaxy just to fight at his side once again. And…," he trailed off. She noticed his voice quiver for a moment. She looked up in his face, noticing him look away for a moment.

"You okay?" she asked quietly.

He nodded. "Yeah. Just remembering something I should have told him a long time ago."

"What do you mean?"

He shook his head, looked at her and smiled. "Not now. It's not important. Well, it is but… I'm sure he knows anyway."

She was quiet for a moment as she thought about Shepard and his relationship with others. Apart from his love for her and his bond with Garrus, the closest relationship he had was with his former Captain. She had seen it during their time on the old Normandy. She remembered his constant advice and help, not just for him but for her as well. She remembered how distraught the Councillor had been at his loss. And then watching his friends depart. Then she thought about how the relationship between the two worked. Clearly Anderson had been and was still a mentor. Someone he respected and admired. Someone he was clearly fond of. Those feelings were clearly returned. But she was left with the feeling that there was also something… more. She looked at him again as he glanced every so often at his old Captain, the slight smile on his face as he watched him and his partner dance. It was like a light-bulb being switched on. In an instant, she realised what it was. And she decided that she would not question him further. She understood completely. It was obvious. It made her smile as well.

She stroked his cheek to gain his attention. He looked at her. "I understand, Shepard," she said quietly.

He looked perplexed for a second. She glanced at the other couple before returning her attention to him. He did the same before he looked at her again. She smiled behind her mask. He must have noticed as he returned the smile though there was no doubting the slight shimmer in his eyes. He blinked rapidly, and in an instant, they were normal again. He raised a hand to the side of her mask. She just wished that she could feel his hand on her face.

She just wrapped him in a tight hug as they continued to dance long into the night.