Thanks for the reviews, I really appreciate it. The next chapter takes place about a month or so after Andros tells his story.
It was another quiet night shift on the bridge. It was TJ's turn to monitor space. The story that Andros had told them had done a number on all of them. He had lost everything; his family, his friends, and his home. TJ couldn't imagine fighting a war for Earth when he was twelve. Andros had been through more in a few years then most people experienced in their whole life. The only positive that came out of the situation was that Andros was really starting to open up to them. He was, by no means, a sociable person, but he was becoming one of the "guys". Andros had started to let the team into his personality, and they were truly becoming friends. TJ also noticed that some of the members were friendlier with Andros than others, but that was a whole different story.
"So, are you going to let me pay you back and take your shift?"
TJ turned around to see Cassie standing in the doorway.
"Sorry Cassie, but once I am up, I'm up. You are, though, more than welcome to join me if you wish." TJ replied. Cassie smiled and sat on the chair next to TJ's monitoring station.
"So, what's up?" Cassie asked, trying to avoid the silence.
"Nothing much, you?" TJ responded.
"Just trying to keep my head together. Did you ever think we would be space rangers? Flying through the universe trying to find an intergalactic warlord, and save the Earth?" Cassie asked.
"Never, I just came to play basketball, not learn how to surf in space," TJ replied with a smirk. TJ had wanted to get Cassie alone to talk with her about more "private matters" for a while now. No moment, though, seemed right. Tonight, however, looking at her, he decided that now was as good as time as ever.
"Cass, can I ask you something?"
"Sure, Teej. You know, you don't have to ask," she joked.
"I know, but it's kind of personal. I…you know….just…kind of wondering…just…what is going on with you and the Phantom Ranger?" TJ finally spat out. Cassie was not prepared for the question. She had always felt close to the Phantom Ranger, but had similar feelings for TJ. She did not, however, believe that he could ever have feelings for her. She was very confused. She tried not to let it show, but TJ knew her too well. He was about to apologize for the question, when she interjected, "I guess he is just a friend of mine. I don't think we have anything going on. Why do you ask?"
"No reason Cass, just curious." TJ replied, trying not to show the concern and nervousness he felt. Cassie, however, saw right through him. She was perplexed at the moment. She had always looked at TJ as a friend. To be perfectly honest, she was beginning to question her feelings. As she stared into his eyes, she felt even more confused. She thought she had feelings for the Phantom Ranger, but he was never there for her, but TJ always was.
"TJ, do you mind if I stay up with you and talk?" Cassie asked, wanting to explore their relationship.
"Of course not, and besides, you owe me anyway," TJ joked as they got more comfortable.
The next day a familiar sound could be heard from one of the common rooms…
"It's not moving," Ashley complained.
"Remember, focus on the ball. Don't see it, feel it," Andros replied. Andros had been trying to teach Ashley telekinesis ever since she had observed him using it on Earth. Telekinesis was something Andros didn't like to use often, but when Ashley had pleaded for him to teach, something inside of him couldn't say no.
"I can't do it," Ashley said again.
"Ashley, trust me, you can do it. It takes patience and practice. You are getting closer to moving the ball. I can feel it. You just have to trust me," Andros said sympathetically.
"Ok, I'll try again," Ashley said. This time she looked at the ball, and then closed her eyes, picturing the object in her mind.
"Ashley," Andros whispered, "feel the ball. You have the potential, just use it. You can do it. Concentrate…" At that moment, the ball began to float.
"Ashley," Andros said calmly, "Look." Ashley opened her eyes and the ball moved a little before it fell to the ground.
"Andros, I did it. Thank you so much," and with that she hugged him. He returned the hug, equally satisfied. As they parted, their eyes locked. For a moment, Ashley saw Andros. It was if she was seeing into his soul. Andros was confused. He felt something. He let his battle-hardened exterior fall as he looked tenderly into her eyes. He was beginning to fall in love with her. He tried to regain his composure, but was failing miserably.
"Um….I have to go," and, with that, Andros walked out.
"Sorry," Ashley whispered for no one's ears.
Sorry the chapter was so short, but the next one is kind of big, so I am working on that one. Here is a little preview (The Phantom Ranger/Cassie/TJ triangle will begin)
Cassie is seen sitting with the Phantom Ranger, discussing something. She then sees TJ pass, and rushes to him.
"TJ we never got to finish our conversation."
"It's okay Cassie, go be with him, we can talk later," TJ replied trying his best to put on his "do what's right" face.
"TJ, you are obviously not okay with this, can't we just talk about it? What do you want?"
"Like before, we can be friends."
"That's not what I asked TJ. Stop trying to avoid the question."
"Cassie, what do you want from me!" TJ asked intensely at the woman who had stolen his heart.
"I want the truth," Cassie replied.
"Fine, here it is. Cassie, I love you…"