MINDTRAP 10

Thank you Eris, Moon Bunny, Sara, Tara Bateman, anonyomous, Fessie, Wink, Gary, Gerok & Gok.

Special thanks to Sabrina for betaing!

Disclaimer: All hail the Great maker. JMS

(When they get back to the station, Marcus is taken directly to Medlab, whilst Susan goes to her quarters, opens her vodka and downs several shots. In Medlab, Stephen is checking Marcus over)

Stephen: This was one strange week for you. Sounds like it was worth it though.

Marcus: Why Stephen, I'm sure I don't know what you mean.

Stephen: uh huh.

Marcus: When can I go home?

Stephen: I want you in here overnight, at least. Your body has been though a lot. And I do need to run some tests. (Marcus groans)

Marcus: Oh bloody typical.

Stephen: Marcus, you disappeared while we were surrounded by Shadows, and Bester's had you for several days, plus in some twilight zone way you've been inside someone else's mind. Speaking of Ivanova, where is she? I should run some tests on her too. (Marcus closes his eyes, and concentrates. He frowns slightly as he opens his eyes)

Marcus: Her quarters. (Stephen just stares in disbelief)

Stephen: Ok.

(Meanwhile, in her quarters, Susan trembles when she feels Marcus search for her, and sends back a wordless reassurance, before swallowing another shot of vodka.)

(In Medlab)

Stephen: Marcus? You with me?

Marcus: Sorry Stephen, I'm just a bit distracted.

Stephen: You're worried about Susan, aren't you?

Marcus: A little.

Stephen: Well, if you'll concentrate here for 5 minutes, I'll be done and you can get back to your daydreams. Think you can manage? (Marcus grins)

Marcus: Stephen, you should know by now, I have a very short attention span.

Stephen: Except when it comes to Susan.

Marcus: I'm only human after all.

(Later, Stephen contacts Susan over the link)

Susan: Ivanova here

Stephen: I was wondering when you were coming down for a check up Susan?

Susan: Stephen, I'm tired, can't this wait til morning?

Stephen: Sorry Susan, but its gotta be done. It won't take long.

Susan: Alright, give me 10 minutes. Ivanova out.

(When she arrives in Medlab, Stephen is busy.)

Stephen: Susan good. I'll be about 5 minutes. Why don't you go talk to Marcus? He's in exam 5 (Stephen points. Susan takes a deep breath and walks in. Marcus greets her with a warm smile. She won't look up)

Marcus: Hello.

Susan: Hi. You ok?

Marcus: Yep, the old worry wart refuses to let me out til morning. You?

Susan: I'm fine.

Marcus: You were drinking earlier.

Susan: Is that a crime?

Marcus: No, you just seemed upset?

Susan: I uh, had a ton of paperwork waiting for me. (He knows this is a lie.)

Marcus: Yeah, that pesky paperwork. (sadly) I'm glad you're okay Susan. I worry about you. I always have.

Susan: I can take care of myself.

Marcus: I know, believe me. But I still worry. (Stephen enters)

Stephen: Okay Susan, if you'll come this way we'll get started (She nods & follows him out)

Susan: goodnight Marcus.

Marcus: Night. Sweet dreams Susan. (He leans back with a depressed sigh & punches the side of the bed.) Bugger.

(The next day Delenn visits Marcus in Medlab.)

Delenn: Good morning.

Marcus: Delenn. Good morning.

Delenn: Dr. Franklin tells me you are physically fit and can return to work next week.

Marcus: Yep. All fine and dandy.

Delenn: Do you feel well enough?

Marcus: I'm alright Delenn, thank you. Just a bit tired.

Delenn: I trust Susan is well?

Marcus: As far as I know.

Delenn: Did you two have an argument?

Marcus: No. Not even a fight.

Delenn: Not even?

Marcus: We've come to an understanding.

Delenn: I do not understand.

Marcus: It's simple. I'm not what she wants.

Almost there people, just 1 chapter left