A/N: I had so much internal conversation in previous chapters that I thought it was time for some outside talk :) Two chapters to post today! Enjoy and please read and review!
HERS
"So?" Ash laid a knowing look toward Shepard. She hated that Ash was so intuitive.
"So what?" Shepard said in a lame attempt of innocence, because her voice caught as she talked. She cleared her throat. Everyone saw right through me.
"Why did you run away last night? You looked like you were having a good time. Finally," came Ash's exasperated response.
Commander Shepard took over. "First of all, it would be best for you to show the proper respect. Second, I don't answer to you about anything. Third, I had work to do and I just remembered how important it was." That was a good enough lie, right?
"Mm-k. It didn't have anything to do with L-T? I won't even tell you what Wrex said after you almost steamrolled him," Ash teased.
"What does it matter what Wrex said?" Shepard said decisively. But I have to know. "What did he say?"
"He said something like that you smelled like sex or something," Ash said matter-of-factly. "What was going on out there with you and L-T? I don't know how krogan noses work, but I do know that L-T was…"
Words tumbled out of Shepard's mouth, as she involuntarily interrupted Ash. "I was hot and tired, and had had a little too much to drink."
"What do you mean you? I thought L-T came on to you and Wrex smelled him on you. Shepard, um, Commander, do you like L-T?" Ash giggled ferociously.
"NO! Uh, I-I mean, not in that way. Shit. Ash, don't you dare look any way into this." Shepard's face turned a bright crimson.
"The lady doth protest too much, methinks." Ash said, quoting Shakespeare. "Besides, he's into you too. God, I've never seen a guy so messed up with a woman. My sisters would be jealous."
"Really?" Shepard smiled, the red fading from her face. Ash giggled.
HIS
"What the hell, Alenko?" Joker cursed. "You let that nice ass just run away from you? Are you not into women or something? I mean, not that there's anything wrong with that, but I know you…what the hell?"
"I couldn't, Joker. That'd be wrong, and you know it. Regs." Kaidan kept his eyes on his console.
"Oh, that's right, Mr. Picture Perfect Soldier, can't break any rules, even when the woman throws herself into your arms. What are you waiting for, a goddamn invitation? She is hot for you!"
"Hey, I'm a little bit more of a gentleman than that, Joker. Unlike someone else I know who uses his freaking handicap as a pick-up line," Kaidan said defensively.
"Touché," said Joker, smiling. "But I'm not all pent up like a hormonal teenage boy. Ash was pretty fun…" The pilot faded into memories.
"I like her, Joker," Kaidan said quietly.
"Well, sure you do. I mean, shit, I'd take a crack at her, if you weren't."
"No, I mean really. I've never felt like this about anyone…not since Rahna." He stopped and shook his head. "It's stupid and wrong and I have to figure out some way to stop it."
"Why?" Joker asked delicately, sensing Kaidan's open honesty.
"I don't know. That's why I can't."
"Well, then go get her, son. She's waiting on you."
Kaidan shifted in his seat, feeling a little better about life.
Joker broke the silence. "So, how did she feel when you were dancing?"
"Like heaven."
