Natara hadn't realized how long she'd been. That Clark had come to see where she had done, and she barely managed to choke out to him what had happened. She felt stupid, sobbing as Clark kept a straight face. He left her there to make arrangements to take a leave of absence, and managed to call Amy and had her arrange for her to fly back out. She scheduled a flight for early that morning, and walked back to her apartment. She managed to compose herself as she walked, making her appear somewhat sane among the people who walked past her. She packed her things, the same amount she had when she left the first time. When she was flying out on what Mal had called 'crap detail' to assist in the Maskmaker case. After everything was packed, she curled up like a cat in her bed, but did not find sleep.

Two months ago

Natara had her phone held to her cheek, talking quickly to Amy on the way to work.
"I know it's a three months away and it's a little early to make arrangements, but I'd really like to come back for Christmas. First Christmas with me and Mal as a couple you know?"
"Thats great! Are you going to make it a surprise for him or should I tell him?" she said.
Natara thought for a moment. "Surprise I think. That way if something comes up and I can't come no ones disappointed."
"Don't worry! I won't tell anyone!"

Present

She opened her eyes at the sound of the alarm on her phone, and saw she had a message as she went to turn it off. "Agent Williams" said Clark's voice "We have arranged for you to take a leave of absence from work. We would, if you feel up to it, like you to assist on the investigation. We will assume you accept this assignment if you do not respond. That is all". Natara closed her phone and stuffed it in her pocket as she dressed to leave. She summoned a taxi, and once again arrived at the airport. She remembered how Mal had wrapped his arms around her, saying this was not a goodbye. That they would make it work. Not there was no one, it was during the week and the airport was nearly empty. She went through security fairly quickly, boarding and staring at her silent phone. Half of her wanted to call and say she didn't want to work the case, however weak she sounded. Most of her though wanted to avenge Mal, should he be dead. 'He's dead' she remind herself 'he's dead and he's not going back'. She spent the next few hours staring blankly into the air, digging her nails into her palms in anxiety. She knew no one would greet her as she arrived. Not anymore.

Just letting you know, don't worry. FLUFF IS ON THE WAY