Many, many thanks to a Lucyndareads who requested ' Shepard will lick Miranda's whole body, because I love the moments when Shepard admires Miranda's body.'
This suggestion kinda kicked me in the butt and inspired me. I'm gonna shake things up and move our heroes to different locations. And yes, I will happily fulfill your request - it will be in chapter 29 ;-)
Chapter 28, Transition
Miranda Lawson was complaining. Miranda almost never complained. But being forced to wear an Alliance uniform? That was one bridge too far!
"The material feels so rough on my skin. The pants are not comfortable. And don't get me started on the boring grey color!"
Jane sighed. She thought Miri looked hot in the uniform. Then again, Miri would look hot in a brown paper bag.
"We just don't want anyone linking you with Cerberus. There are half a dozen authorities investigating the remains of Cerberus right now. If anyone finds out you were one of their top agents, you could be in danger. I worry about you. The uniform is simply a disguise."
"I know. And I agree. But it is so... " She plucked on her short sleeves, "lifeless. Mundane. Unshapely."
Jane intentionally stared at Miri's spectacular breasts. "Unshapely is not a word I would use."
Miranda grinned. "Those are my tits, thank you. I just want you to know I don't feel comfortable in this. There has to be a better solution."
Jane was quiet for a few seconds. Above all, she wanted Miranda to be safe. Perhaps she could-
"Mmm... I might have an idea."
Councilor Tevos raised an eyebrow. If she had eyebrows. "Assistant? Why do you need an assistant? And what would this person's duties be?"
Jane was taking it on the fly. "Paperwork. Supplies. Maybe some reconnassaince. Basically anything to make my job easier."
"And-"
"I want this person to be directly under my Spectre protection status. She will be immune, like me. No questions asked."
"But how-"
"No questions asked."
Tevos frowned. She didn't like to be interrupted and would not take that from anyone. But the woman standing opposite was Commander Shepard. The Commander Shepard. They both knew the Council was not going to refuse anything to the saviour of the Galaxy.
She bowed lightly. "As you wish Commander. Make sure to visit administration. They will issue an ID card right way."
Jane smiled, a devilish grin. Having the ability to strong-arm the Council felt damn good! And knowing that she had secured Spectre protection for Miranda felt even better. "Thank you Councilor. It's been a pleasure."
"Just one more thing Shepard. We have a few teams on Chronos station and they just came up with some interesting information. I'd like you to pay them a visit."
"Chronos station? What used to be Cerberus headquarters?"
"Correct." Tevos noticed Jane's surprised expression. "Is that a problem?"
"Not at all. I will depart as soon as possible."
Liara closed the fridge and took a sip of her drink. She looked around the kitchen, the living room. Over the last few months this apartment had been their home. It even felt like home. But now things were set in motion and she had to admit, leaving the comfy apartment was a bit... unsettling.
Walking over to the poker table she heard her friend's voices. Listening to the cheerful, happy sounds soothed her mind. Relax Liara. War's over. Enjoy the moment.
Miranda Lawson, Jane Shepard and Ciux T'mare were waiting for her at the poker table. Liara took the fourth chair, took a few more sips and looked at her friends. "This cocktail is nice. I'd love to get the recipe."
"Oh no!" Jane quipped. "This is my secret cocktail. Classified information."
"Mmm." Taking a big swig Liara nearly finished her drink. She felt it sizzle on her tongue, felt her mind embrace the pleasant alcohol. "Delicious."
"Careful," Jane quipped, "that's your third. Don't get corrupted by my lifestyle!"
Liara purred and winked playfully.
They had already discussed their plans. Jane was heading to Chronos station. Miri was coming along, to check the remains of Cerberus and -oh, to be the Spectre's 'personal assistant.'
Liara and Ciux had been talking about Thessia for days. Ciux needed to go there for a College assignment, which could be neatly combined with a visit to her family. Liara was intending to visit a few of her old professors and she wanted to check on her Mother's estate. It felt like the perfect moment. It was a shame Jane couldn't be there, but at least she'd be travelling with a friend. Both asari were really looking forward to seeing their Homeworld.
"So," Liara stated, licking her lips, "this is where our paths diverge."
She gratefully kissed Miranda's hand. "It's been fabulous." She also kissed Ciux's hand. "I've had a fabulous time." Jane did the same thing and holding hands they all smiled at each other, cherishing the warm moment.
"Lovely." Liara sighed. She turned her attention to Jane. "Any idea how long you'll be gone?"
Jane hummed. "Well... your guess is as good as mine. A few days? A week?"
"I'm going to miss you." Liara whispered, touching Jane's shoulder.
"Same here Blue. But as you mentioned(*previous chapter), you wanna pick up your academic career. Thessia, with your college contacts, is a great place to start."
"Too bad you can't come along."
"Indeed. I'm kinda regretting saying 'yes' to Tevos. But I gotta go to Chronos station."
Liara was almost pouting. "Too bad. Promise me you'll be careful."
"It's a non-combat mission. It'll probably be kinda boring. Tevos wasn't very specific."
"You attract danger. It's in your blood."
"True." Jane smirked. She wrapped an arm around Miranda and carelessly pulled her close. "Miri will protect me!"
Miranda giggled and rolled her eyes. "Never change Shepard."
