Author: Porthos
Summary: Kate breaks up with Rodney. McKay/Insert your female character of choice.
Spoilers: The Gift
Author's notes: I know most people, including myself, don't take Rodney's comment that he was dating Dr. Heightmeyer at face value. But I've also read some fics about Kate and Rodney's "relationship," in which she is always cool and calm. I wanted to write a fic in which she was as emotional as the people she treats. Updated author's note at end of story.

And special thanks to my betas, Cali (aaobuttons) and Hans (PurpleYin).

oOo

"Excuse me?" Rodney asked. "Would you mind repeating that?"

Kate Heightmeyer pinched the bridge of her nose briefly before again meeting his furious glare. "I said, it's over, Rodney. I've met someone else."

His nostrils flared. "Oh, I'm sorry," he said, sounding anything but. "I wasn't aware that the single most brilliant man on Atlantis wasn't up to par with the military grunts who can bench press ten times their IQ."

"He's not like that, Rodney."

He snorted. "Well, you did say he's nothing like me, didn't you?"

"Yes." Kate's eyes flashed in anger. "But that's because he sees me as something more than just a welcome distraction."

Rodney rolled his eyes. "Oh, that's rich. When have I ever treated you—"

"You say her name in your sleep!" Kate shouted before the lump in her throat appeared, forcing her to lower her voice. "You're lying there, next to me, and you're dreaming about her." Bitter tears threatened to fall, but Kate fought them back.

The silence that fell at Kate's outburst seemed to stretch between them. Finally, Rodney swallowed thickly. "Oh," was all he said.

Kate bit back a mirthless laugh. The thought that he didn't even have to ask who "she" was sent Kate over the edge, making her bottom lip start to quiver. If she'd ever had any doubts…

With a curt, "Goodbye Rodney," she spun on her heel and began to walk away, finally letting the tears fall.

oOo

Author's notes: Okay, this could potentially be a multi-chapter fic, but I need some feedback from you guys. I know there's a lot of possibilities for where to go with this, I just can't really think of any. Any suggestions?

Updated Author's note to reviewers: I'm surprised nobody's brought this up yet, but doesn't anybody wonder exactly who Kate has been seeing behind Rodney's back? Is it someone he considers a friend? Ooh, I smell delicious Rodney angst, write me (or review) and let me know who you think Kate should have dumped him for, and why, and I'll see if I can work that into another chapter, possibly…