Set after the episode.


The Return (Pt 2)


Elizabeth Weir sat at her desk and did nothing for a few seconds. Taking in her office slowly, she nodded approvingly before shuffling through paper that really had nothing to do with work, and more to do with assuring herself that Atlantis was back in her control. Unlike some other things…blowing away the thought, she resumed looking official – which unfortunately she seemed to excel at.

The light tapping at the plexiglass sent needles skittering down her throat. Elizabeth looked up to meet blue eyes with what she hoped was an impartial gaze. Rodney entered the office and seated himself quite without invitation – although she might have had a hard time refusing him if he'd asked. Stiffly, Elizabeth laid the paper flat and inquired, "How are things, Rodney?"

"Oh, you know, can't walk anywhere without stepping in replicator remains," he answered lightly. "Apart from that, and the obvious post-traumatic upheaval by moving so frequently…huh. You could say things are sailing well. I was thinking we might even have time for pie or jell-o or any other suitable sweet thing. Except not the lemon meringue, because not only does it look evil, it is actually lethal – and not just to myself."

Elizabeth hesitated. "Much as the offer is tempting, I have some paperwork to finish."

"What paper work? We only just got back."

"In that case, I need some time to myself."

"You've had plenty of time," Rodney remarked. "All twenty minutes of it. I counted."

"I thought I made my point four weeks ago."

"And yet here you are talking to me," he pointed out.

Tapping her foot against the floor, Elizabeth tried to be impatient, but her skin warmed at the sight of him. A month was hardly a long time, by any means. But now that they were back to this point…she sighed. "Rodney, while we may be back on Atlantis, I'm not sure I want to resume our…our previous arrangement."

His not-quite hidden smile faltered. "Yes, well, I assumed – "

"You assumed."

"I assumed," Rodney repeated, louder, "that since you didn't actually say goodbye when the Ancients evicted us, you'd…you'd see me on the other side. Lizbeth, you can't do this."

Elizabeth looked at the plexiglass behind him. "Your next briefing is tomorrow. Don't be late."

She didn't dare watch him leave.


AN: I apologise... this one is a few minutes late!! Celebrations for Australia Day got in the way.

Therefore, as it is past midnight, I can now say - HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY!!!!!