Two Losers Turned Heros

by Veiladae

Not everyone who rises to the top is born with a silver spoon in their mouth. Jane Shepard and Jeff Moreau may come from very different places, but they are united under the same goal: Stop Saren. As they find, sometimes opposites attract... Over time. ME1 story line. FemShep/Joker. Heavy in dialogue. Rated M for language in dialogue. All other would rate T.

3. Noted

"Lieutenant."

"Commander," Joker responds dryly.

They endure an uncomfortable minute before Shepard continues. "I want to talk with you." Another pause. "How are you?"

Joker rolls his eyes. "I'm well-rested. Thanks, mom."

"No, I mean…"

Joker interrupts. "Did I break my shin bone on my way outta here yesterday? It wouldn't affect my flying even if I had."

"I know." Shepard responds. "I'm glad you're okay."

"You know?" Joker eyes her.

Shepard visibly squirms a bit.

"You watched me hobble outta here and went to find Chakwas shortly after, didn't you?"

Shepard breaks eye contact and shrugs. "I just wanted to make sure you were all right."

"What?!" Joker feels his embarrassment turn to anger. "That scene was just another day in a cripple's life. Thanks for making sure it was during peak hours to make sure everyone could get a gander."

Shepard falters. "I didn't… know. Intend for…"

Joker lowers his head. "Good. I can't believe you still don't believe I'm the best damn pilot out there after all you've seen me do at this point."

Shepard waves a hand and shakes her head. "I'm not questioning your skills, in the least, lieutenant. I just wanted to make sure you were taken care of and…"

"I don't need your help." Joker sighs. "Dammit, Shepard. I've had Vrolik's syndrome all my life. I was born with broken bones. I've learned how to deal with it. You think I've make it to this point by having my mom remind me when to eat, sleep, and shit?"

Shepard glares at him. "Listen, smartass. I didn't come here to argue with you. I came to…" Shepard mumbles under her breath: "Fuck… just say it." She faces him but cannot maintain eye contact. "Apologize. I came to apologize."

Joker eyes her.

"Listen." Shepard continues. "I didn't realize just how ba… that you need cru…" Shepard closes her eyes and rubs her temples. "Look. It won't happen again. I know now to trust your unconventional ways. You… You really saved our asses back on Therum."

"Not bad for a cripple, huh?"

"Not bad for any man. I'm glad to be here to fight another day."

"Good deal, Commander." Joker says, then adds. "Just, keep your fights on the battlefield, if you don't mind."

"Noted."