Red

Surprise flushed through him the first time he was introduced to Secretary Roslin, full head of cascading red hair moving gently with each shake of her head. Even in Galactica's artificial lighting, her beautiful copper hair glinted and rippled, sending waves of attraction crashing through Bill. He could almost imagine running his fingers through her hair, yanking slightly as he brings his mouth down over hers. Banishing the thought from his mind (and all subsequent thoughts that followed), he attempted to refocus on the conversation at hand long enough to reject her suggestion of networking Galactica.

Now, as he gazes at Laura in awe, dressed to the New Caprican nines in the most beautiful red he has ever seen, he can't help but stare. The way the wrap situates itself just right against her petite frame, and the way her cherry locks dance in the slight breeze. He smiles indulgently, but continues to fidget with the sand…ah, alluvial deposits, until she comes over. Standing near him, Laura teases Bill gently, calling him a romantic and laughing like the little red-haired vixen she is.

"That's a nice colour on you," says Bill appreciatively, with just a touch of shyness. The red now colours her cheeks rather than just her clothes, as she smiles contentedly.

Crimson oozes from his face, mingling with sweat and drying on his moistened brow. He has taken quite a beating, and Laura can't help but worry about Bill. After all, she has only just begun to realise her feelings for him, and the mere thought is enough to send a delicate rose to her cheeks. Giggling guiltily at the memory of New Caprica, she returns her attention to the sanguine travesty facing her. Tears sting in the corners of her eyes, as she realises that this – all of this – is his attempt at distancing himself from everyone. From her.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed it! I also wanted to say thank you to the guest reviewer(s) and to Tel nok shock for reviewing the last two chapters, it means a lot to me! Please leave a review if you liked it :)