"Thank you for coming, Doctor McKay," Caldwell waved him to take the chair on the other side of his desk. "I appreciate your taking time out of your busy schedule to see me."
"I wanted to see the latest modifications Hermiod made to the drive system, anyway. I can't imagine what could be so important that you wanted to see me here, though."
Caldwell schooled his face not to reflect his delight at having McKay in his own private office on the Daedalus. "I'm concerned about Colonel Sheppard. His career could be in grave danger. There's even a possibility that he could be recalled to Earth and face a court martial."
McKay stared at him in surprise. "Court martial? Sheppard? But – he hasn't done anything wrong! He's – don't tell him I said so, but he's the best thing that could have happened to the expedition. I've worked for the US military for years, and he's the best officer I've ever dealt with."
Caldwell smiled. "Your loyalty is admirable, Doctor McKay, and Sheppard's record here in the Pegasus Galaxy speaks for itself, but there are certain things that simply can't be overlooked. I've come to you because I believe you have his best interests at heart." He leaned back to deliver the coup de grace. "I know about you and Colonel Sheppard. I know what you've been doing – together."
"Me and Colonel – " McKay's face registered momentary incomprehension before guilt blossomed across it. "You mean – you know about – "
He was right. The man's face showed everything, and any doubt he'd had was now put to rest. "Yes, Doctor McKay, I know. And so do my superiors back on Earth. I've pleaded on Sheppard's behalf, but I'm not sure how much it will help." This was perfect. McKay was completely taken in by his show of altruistic concern.
"I just can't believe...it's harmless, you know? Neither of us would do anything to endanger Atlantis. I just – I needed…" McKay looked down at his hands, clenched in his lap.
"I understand, Doctor. A man has certain needs, desires, that can't always be met in the ordinary way. Living here in another galaxy for so long out of contact with Earth must have made it even harder. Look, Doctor McKay," he leaned forward, deliberately creating the impression of imparting a confidence, "I think I can salvage the situation. I don't think you should tell Colonel Sheppard about our conversation. I'm afraid he might decide to try and bluff his way out of this, or even resign his commission, and it's far too late for that. I think it would be better if you wrote out a full confession for me to take back to Earth, along with a promise that you'll cease all illicit activities. As a civilian, you can't be prosecuted, and I might be able to persuade the investigating panel that you were the instigator. That Sheppard was just trying to help you."
McKay nodded slowly. "I, um…I'll do that. I'll have it ready before your departure." He rose unsteadily, not looking at Caldwell, looking slightly dazed. At the door, he turned back.
"Are you sure that's the best thing to do? There's no chance of, you know," he waved his hand in air vaguely, "plausible deniability, or something like that?"
Caldwell shook his head solemnly. "I'm afraid not, Doctor McKay. The best you can hope for now is to minimize the damage, and the only person who can do that is you."
A/N: Wasn't that a surprise? Just as much for me as it was for you, I can honestly say. Now, you may think that this chapter has turned the story into slash…but read again, and you'll see that nothing has really been confirmed. Is Rodney talking about the same thing as Caldwell, or has the Colonel been a little too vague in his accusation?
I'm sorry to leave you hanging like this, but I promise that I don't know any more than you do. Hopefully I'll figure it out by tomorrow. Thanks so much to everyone who has read and reviewed this. I'm astonished and gratified at the overwhelming response I've received.