-INTERMISSION-

Vincent Kapoor sat in Director Teddy Sanders' office, the aforementioned standing in front of the window, gazing down at the paved lots below. They were currently awaiting the arrival of Mark's psychiatrist, Dr. Allen. Making small talk to pass the time, they were interrupted when a soft knock echoed in the room.

"Come in."

Peg opened the door and walked inside, saying hello to both of the men. Teddy gestured to the chair beside Vincent, offering for her to sit down, which she gladly did.

"Thank you for coming, Peg. I know how hectic your schedule can be." She smiled at Teddy, waving him off.

"Not nearly as busy as the Director of NASA's schedule, I'm sure." Vincent chuckled in response, even Teddy quirked a smile.

"Let's just get straight to it then," he began, getting their attention, "how is he?" The smile he got made him feel some relief, even though she hadn't spoken yet.

"Mark's progress is almost a little intimidating. He's functioning well, he hasn't had any PTSD triggers for months, his nightmares are becoming less frequent…" She trailed off, debating what she should and shouldn't tell them, patient confidentiality considered, "I think he's starting to find new ways to move past his experience on Mars. I'm bound by doctor-patient confidentiality, so I can't go into very much detail…but I will say this; Mark Watney is one of the easiest patients I've ever worked with, all things considered."

Vincent chimed in, asking "So do you think the job offer with ACP will be good for him? Mentally, I mean."

"I do."

"How many more sessions do you think he needs to go through before he finishes his recovery?"

Peg thought for a moment, "That's difficult to say. Most cases of therapy, while the patient has recovered, the sessions continue on a semiregular basis, just to touch base and discuss anything on the patient's mind. I believe, in Mark Watney's case, that when he feels more secure facing everyday society like before he went to Mars, then he will no longer need my assistance. However," she paused, emphasizing the word, "if, for whatever reason, he feels he still needs my help, my door will remain open and he will have my contact information in the event of an emergency."

Teddy nodded, finding this acceptable. "Peg, you have been a blessing in this situation, the Administration owes a lot to you." Vincent was inclined to agree with him, Dr. Allen was one of the best in her field, in all of Houston, even. The fact that Mark was in such good physical and mental health barely seven months after his return was almost a miracle. They'd honestly been expecting him to be much worse, despite having the entire trip home to recover with his crewmates.

"I'm simply doing what my job entails, Teddy, nothing more than that. Your praise is appreciated, but unnecessary." Vincent smiled, she was almost as humble as Mindy Park, although he kept this thought to himself.

"Regardless, we thank you for your hard work. Is there anything else involving Mark we should be aware of?" When Peg declined, stating that no, there was not, Teddy thanked her for her time, allowing her the chance to leave. She stood up, shaking both men's hands and bidding them farewell, leaving the room at a calm pace.

When she was gone, Vincent turned to Teddy. "I think we have a new class to install into the program." And he agreed with him, so they got back to work.