Disclaimer: I own nothing except my OC Audrina and any alterations to the original storyline plot her presence creates to various readers amusement everywhere across the globe.
Heart of Atlantis Chapter 18
And just like that the hostile animosity between the sea and surface dwellers came to an end. Well not instantaneously. After the damage Orm had caused there remained a rift, but it wasn't anything that wasn't repairable yet. There was hope.
The leaders of the surface dwellers' government were informed that the Atlanteans were tricked unknowingly into war. Now that they knew the truth regarding the circumstances that led up to the invasion the Atlanteans were making a tactical retreat back into their oceans under the guidance of their new Queen. It took a lot to convince them at the behest of the Justice League, but they were somewhat relieved when they were told of the promise Audrina made. Basically, she vowed not to attack their shores again unless there was an underlying threat to her kingdom and peace could be kept. So the surface dwellers went about fixing the damage, healing the injured, and returning those separated from loved ones.
Cyborg was one of those undergoing repairs of his own at Star Labs in Metropolis. He'd sustained heavy damage in the battle and needed his systems checked for. Fortunately, there wasn't any permanent damage that couldn't be mended. The benefit of being part machine is that damage that upon first glance appeared fatal was now less exaggerated and life-threatening depending on the methods a person used.
Cyborg repairs were being overseen by an acquaintance who worked at Star Labs.
Cyborg was currently lying on an exam table while Dr. Sarah Charles fitted him with a new chest plate since the previous one had been damaged beyond repair. The rest was easily fixable.
When it was done Cyborg sat up feeling mightily refreshed.
"How is that," asked Dr. Sarah Charles.
"Let me check. Run system diagnostic," commanded Cyborg, running an inner analysis.
The automated voice said, "All systems operational."
"Seems okay," said Cyborg, satisfied.
Stepping closer, putting a gentle hand on Cyborg's chest, Dr. Sarah Charles said "I mean, how does it feel?"
"Uh…," said Cyborg, awkwardly, Dr. Sarah Charles's touch and expression on her face showed her intentions to him, "feels good."
Presumptuous Dr. Sarah Charles leaned in to kiss Cyborg and he leaned in to meet her. But as they were about to kiss Audrina's face appeared in his mind. Audrina's lovely eyes, beautiful voice, soft, full mouth, and entirely stubborn chin. He couldn't do it. Cyborg put a hand on her shoulder to stop her advancement.
He said "Sarah, I can't."
Surprised, Dr. Sarah Charles "Why? Is there something wrong?"
Blunt, Cyborg sighed "I'm sorry, but I don't see you in that way. Maybe I did before, but not anymore."
Brow furrowed, Dr. Sarah Charles said "There's someone else, isn't there?"
Nodding, regretful, Cyborg whispered "Yes."
He loved her, but she couldn't love him back is what Cyborg kept to himself.
Shaking her head, Dr. Sarah Charles chuckled "Guess I made myself known a little too late then. So much for the dinner plans I had made up in my head."
"Sorry it couldn't work out," apologized Cyborg.
"It's all right," assured Dr. Sarah Charles. "Can't blame a girl for trying though."
No he certainly couldn't.
Before either of them could say anything else the doors burst open revealing Shazam as he came in.
Grinning toothily, Shazam said "Vic, we got to go!" She skidded to a stop when he saw how close the two of them were. "Whoa, am I interrupting?"
Casting a sidelong glance at Dr. Sarah Charles, Cyborg said "No, you're not. What is it?"
"Haven't you been keeping track of the time? We're gonna be late. The others are already on their way to Atlantis. We have to hurry if we're going to meet them on time," said Shazam.
Shazam was right they were behind schedule. Audrina was about to be crowned Queen of Atlantis and if they didn't hurry it up then they would end up missing it.
"Thanks for the repair job, Doc," said Victor.
"No problem," said Dr. Sarah Charles.
Cyborg and Shazam then left. Shazam couldn't resist having some fun with Cyborg, given his actual age.
"Bet you can't wait to see Audrina," jested Shazam, aware of the attachment Cyborg had on the new Atlantean Queen. "Victory! Victory!"
"Not cool, man. Not cool," said Cyborg.
Authors Note:
I know. Breaks your heart, doesn't it? The way he's pining for Audrina. A woman Cyborg honestly believes he could never possess. Cyborg has lost so much in his life and now a woman he's come to care for is out of reach.
Or so he thinks.