PART 26:
Trip walked through the garden. He needed to get his head cleared, but the words she said to him tore at his sole.
He couldn't wait to get back to Enterprise and throw himself into his work.
Even when Natalie sent that letter telling him it was over, she was kinder. Another failed relationship which made number four. He swore next time this wasn't going to happen.
That's if there is a next time, he thought.
He made a turn around a hedge and saw Liana coming out of the cave. He watched her and wanted nothing more than to hold her close.
Liana turned and saw Trip. She quickly looked around to see if anyone else was around.
Trip saw the fear in her eyes. "You don't have to be scared," he told her. "I'm not going to hurt you."
Liana dropped her gaze.
"This will probably be the last time we see each other."
She looked at him again. "Why?"
"I'm returning to Enterprise in the morning."
Liana's heart shattered at the thought of Trip leaving. "Will you be coming back?"
"No," Trip said. "There's stuff to be done on the ship that I have to get started."
"I see."
"I hope you have a good life," Trip told her.
Liana stared at him. She wanted to burn his look into her memory so she would never forget.
"Well I better get going," she heard him say.
Before he could turn and leave, Liana called out. "Trip."
Trip looked at her, he could have sworn he saw tears in her eyes.
Liana wanted to tell him she loved him and she wanted to go with him. But that's not what came out of her mouth. "You have a good life too." Tears fell down her face as she watched Trip turn and leave.
End of Part 26