Miranda Lawson's 1st rule: Don't get close, friends are a weakness. Commander James Shepard fights first and foremost for his friends. When she see's his methods first hand her mind begins to change. My first stab at a fan fic, let me know how I do. Disclaimer: I don't own any part of Mass Effect, no copy right infringement intended, no revenue made, just for fun.

A dramatization of the events of Mass Effect 2 and 3, detailing the shared journey of Shepard and Miranda and their growing relationship.

AU. Commander Shepard's hunt for Saren is put on hold upon receiving a distress signal from a Dr. Miranda Lawson. The detour will force him to make a new ally if his squad wants to survive the terror that Cerberus has unleashed.