Authors Note:
This one is in answer to the IceMenace and Shadows-of-the-Realm downtime challenge and is set a couple of months after Sunday, Lifeline, etc - when they are still settling on their new planet. In Word this is 300 words exactly (minus the note of course!) ...
Reluctance
"Take the day off Major," Sheppard's expression brooked no opposition.
Evan held in a sigh. "Yes Sir."
It was pathetic being so reluctant over a mandatory day off that your CO had to order you to leave. But all Lorne could think about was his last day off - the sunday Carson died ... he hadn't felt inspired to pick up a paint brush since.
So ... what to do?
When the idea hit he ran with it, ignoring his personal motivations. Organising done soon after, Evan strode into the infirmary, spotting his quarry immediately. He had to smile - the estimable Doctor Keller was hunched over her desk, her office door mostly closed. "Hiding isn't an option you know," he told her, approaching silently.
Jennifer jumped, glaring at him. "I like hiding."
Evan held in another smile - she was cute when irritated but he didn't think she'd appreciate his assessment.
"Then you'll like my idea for the day off," he announced. "Come with me?" He held out a hand, waiting for her to decide. That sunday had changed her life too, more than his ... in helping her deal maybe it would help him too.
Jennifer narrowed her eyes suspiciously but she did take his hand, no questions asked. The level of trust in that warmed his heart ... but then, everything about Jennifer did.
"So ... what do you think?" Evan swivelled in the pilot's seat to look at his companion. He'd 'parked' the Jumper in a stable orbit above their new planet. It was quiet and peaceful, and about as far from a day off in the city as two people could get.
"Thank you Evan," Jennifer leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. "This is perfect."
"You're welcome," he returned simply.
The End!