Kathryn fiddled with her mug, eyes distant, remembering a time long past.

'Don't be a stranger, 'kay?' Phoebe had said, blue eyes bright and trembling with the pain of parting. Just like every other time Kathryn had reported to Headquarters for a mission. But this time, it was different. She would be a captain now. Of her own starship. The thought sent a thrill down her spine, and she had to force the smile from her lips.

Don't be a stranger…

What had she said that day? It had been so long ago. So long… could five years really be this long?

Yes.

Don't be a stranger.

Her fingers slipped and burned against the too-hot porcelain. She yanked back with a hiss, shook it for a minute, and went right back to worrying the handle.

Some habits you just couldn't break.