5 - Marshal's visit to Mike in hospital

"Mike, good to see you're recovering. You'll be out of here in no time." said Commander Steve Marshall as he knocked and entered the hospital room.

"About that sir, wondering if I'll be going to sea or shore? Any word on my papers?" Kate had been spending as much of her time at his bedside as she could when the Hammersley was docked at home port keeping him informed of the evolving circumstances on Samaru and Ray Walsman's whereabouts, sometimes complaining about his replacement's command decisions.

"Yes, Mike. That's why I've come to see you in person. I've got some news." Marshall paused. Mike raised his eyebrows waiting for Marshall to continue. "I've been posted to Canberra, helping to fill the void in leadership as this Samaru issue has been heating up."

"Oh? What does that mean for me?" asked Mike.

"Mike, your old colleague, Commander Maxine White, will be taking NAVCOM operations in Cairns. Your promotion will be up to her. I've asked her to keep it a priority but Mike, things are really heating up in Samaru just now. I wouldn't expect an answer for you in the immediate future." Marshall finished.

"I understand sir, thank you for letting me know in person."

Steve stood up to leave, but then paused. "You and your XO, Mike…you make a good team. If I'm not mistaken, this is the longest relationship you've had. It'll be tough when you break up." Steve had been informed of how many times Kate had been to see Mike while he was recovering from his injury. He was confident both officers were above reproach but couldn't help wondering if this might have some bearing on Mike's request for a shore posting.

Mike blushed at the innuendo, if only he knew! Sputtering, he responded to Marshall's comment, "…yes, yes, you're right this is the longest posting of an XO I've had. We do make a great team sir."

"Mike, I couldn't help notice how much time Kate (not XO) has spent at your side while you've been in hospital. Is there something I should know?"

"Sir, I can assure you we've been nothing but professional. X has been keeping me informed about the crew and patrols in my absence." Mike felt bad for not being totally honest with his friend and mentor however, until his paperwork came through, he was not at liberty to pursue anything more with Kate. He wasn't willing to jeopardize her career.

"Of course, thank you for your honesty. I'll be in touch Mike. Fair winds" Steve reached out to shake Mike's hand before leaving him in the hospital bed.

Damn it, thought Mike. This really wasn't what he was expecting. If Marshall suspected something – did anyone else? Did he do the right thing, confiding to him? He really needed to get out of this hospital bed and back on the ship! His crew had been in on the beginning of this Samaru situation, he wasn't going to miss the opportunity to make sure it ended. And once it was over – then he could concentrate on other things!

Hammersley crew were instrumental in putting down the insurgent coup of the Samaru Islands and for the arrest of Ray Walsman. Commander Marshall addressed the crew once they docked at the Cairns home port. His remarks were well received, the crew would receive another commendation for their actions.

"Hammersley crew, dismissed!" yelled X.

"Mike, a word," said Steve.

"Sir."

"Mike, given everything that's happened in the past few weeks Canberra is behind on its paperwork."

"Understandable, sir."

"I'm afraid you'll be remaining on Hammersley as CO for the foreseeable future. I hope this won't be a problem," Steve continued, glancing from Mike to Kate who could be seen hovering on the boat dock.

"No sir," Mike replied, following his gaze toward the dock.

"Good. Sorry Mike, I know you were hoping for other news. Fair winds, it's been a pleasure."

Commander Marshall walked away after receiving a salute and shaking hands with both Mike and Kate. Mike turned to Kate…"I guess I'm on Hammersley again."

"Congratulations, Sir" Kate sighed and walked away.