"I'll threaten Rodney. Don't worry." John did just that and three of the ships major utilities were back online by the end of the day. John stayed with Rodney for the rest of the week. Constantly hounding him to speed up and move more scientists to this project. Soon Rodney grew tired of John's constant griping and complained to Sam.
"Sheppard," she called into the radio, "I need to see you in my office."
"On my way." John gave one last look at Rodney before leaving the ship. Upon arriving in her office she motioned for him to sit. John obeyed quietly.
"John you need to leave Rodney alone and attend to your own duties." Sam said sternly.
"Have you seen how much work he has accomplished with me there? That ship is just about ready to leave." John responded.
"John is this about those rumors?" Sam hadn't planned on bringing it up.
"No mam those are just rumors, but I do think they are clouding the minds of the people on Atlantis and the faster that woman leaves the better." John sat up straight, "We have more important things to worry about."
"My orders are still the same, leave Rodney alone." Sam dismissed him.
John wondered through the halls looking for things other than paperwork to do. Defeated he went to his office and began to work.
"I hear she'll be back in two days." Larrin stood in the doorway. "I think I might stick around until then."
"Fine." John continued his work.
Larrin did just that. Her ship was finished early on the second day, but she stuck around to see Teyla emerge from the wormhole. John greeted her as soon as she stepped through. Larrin watched as neither of them moved their mouths.
"What are they doing? Just staring at each other?" Larrin thought out loud.
"No, they can communicate with their minds…kind of" Sam informed, "It's very handy in battle."
"I bet it is." Larrin said watching the two depart from the gate room, "I guess it's time for me to leave. Thank you for your hospitality."
"Anytime. You are always welcome in Atlantis." Sam smiled and showed Larrin out of her office. Larrin walked down the hall to her ship where John and all the scientist that worked on the ship waited. Most wished her a safe travel back to where ever she came from. John held out his hand.
"It's called a handshake." He said stupidly.
"I know what it is." Larrin shot back, "You're not going to tell her are you?"
"I'll deny it to my grave." John whispered.
"Be careful John Sheppard." Larrin shook his hand and got in the ship. It successfully took off into the sky. John hoped it would be the last time.