A few days had passed and Commander Tucker had awakened and got better along with Captain Archer and Lieutenant Reed. They'd been released from Sickbay two days, providing they took things easy.
At first I didn't hear the chime go. I was too messed up with crying. Hoshi had given me some tissues she had brought with her. I appreciated that. Hoshi was always very understanding and I considered her a great friend. The chime repeated and I snapped out of what I was doing. I wiped any tears that had formed under my eyes away.
"Come in."
I turned to see Archer walk in slowly. He was dressed in casual clothing, clad in grey jogging bottoms, a blue t-shirt and blue hoodie. He looked worn out and looked like her hadn't slept in a week.
"I came to see when you wanted the funeral for Darren to be. I know this is a hard time for you Ensign."
"He was always one for promptness. He always came early to whatever event he had to go to. He hated being late. I think I'd like it to be early. It's the least I can do Sir."
He walked in further and laid his hand on my shoulder. I looked at him again; I couldn't hold my tears much longer. He seemed to understand and he sat on the floor with me and held me in his arms.
"Just let them flow. What's your name?"
"Jess," I said, amidst blinking tears back.
"Just cry till you can cry no more, Jess."
I did as I was told and I cried for all kingdom come to hear. I cried into his shoulder. He didn't seem to mind. We stayed like that for an hour or more. I couldn't tell. I just couldn't hold the prospect that Darren wouldn't be there for me anymore. He's gone. Archer held me closer and I appreciated his comfort.
"I think it's best if you don't work until a week after the funeral."
I just nodded into his shoulder. I didn't want to speak. Darren was all I could think about and I knew it would be hard letting go.
The time went and Archer pulled back but let his hands stay on my arms and shoulders.
"When would you like the funeral to be?"
"As soon as it can be done."
"How about Monday?"
"Yeah." I sniffed, wiping my nose with the tissue. "That would be fine"
I saw him look at me and he wiped the tears off my face. I realised I had stopped crying.
"He'd want you to move on."
"Yeah. I know."
The door chimed. This time I heard it the first time.
"Come in." My voice seemed a little more stable now that I had cried my heart out.
Hoshi walked in carrying a box.
"Oh. Sorry if I'm interrupting."
I shook my head.
"Major Hayes wanted me to give you this. I'm not sure if this is a good time but he said you should have them all the same."
Carefully I stood. Archer also stood, wincing a little at the pain.
"Thanks Hoshi."
Hoshi handed me the box and smiled.
"Just so you know. We're here for you, Jess."
"I'll bear that in mind." I smiled weakly, the first I had smiled in days. Maybe, with all these friends I could get through this and get by. Hoshi nodded and left the room.
Archer put his hand on my shoulder again. I didn't flinch and very much welcomed it.
"Hoshi's right. We'll help you through. In whatever way we can."
I thanked him. He told me he had to go but if I should need him at time in the evening, I should call him and he would come or I could go to him. I nodded to show I understood.
He put his hand into mind and squeezed it gently. Then he left after he cast a quick but sympathetic glance at me.
With help I can pull through.
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