Small Moments, Big Meanings

Normandy, 2185, October 12th 7:58 AM

I step out of the elevator, balancing two coffees. Riley gives me a wave from her spot by the galaxy map, I nod to her before heading for the armoury. Hopefully, Jacob's in a better mood today, he's been distant ever since the whole Gernsback situation.

The door slides open, and there he is, sitting at a table, eyes fixed somewhere in an absent stare. So much for that. At least it'll be easier to hide that I'm actually in a good mood today... thanks to Miranda.

Striding over, I set a coffee down in front of him. "You okay, boss?"

He blinks, surprised, and wraps his hand around the drink. "Thanks, Vex. Sorry-I guess I've had a lot on my mind."

I slip into the chair across from him, taking a sip. "I'm all ears."

Jacob sighs, offering me a small smile. "It's just-adjusting to everything that happened on Aeia." He shakes his head, his smile fading. "It'll take time."

"No one expects you to be fine overnight," I say, tapping the side of my cup. "Take all the time you need."

"You're right." He lifts the coffee, taking a long sip. "Thanks." Setting it back down, he straightens. "I won't let it affect me. We've got too much work to do."

We do? I raise an eyebrow. "Maintenance already?"

"And inventory," he adds with a smirk. "We also need to make sure all the medi-gel regulators are working properly."

"That-" I slump back in my chair. "That's a lot of work."

"We've got two days," he says with a casual wave. "Don't worry too much."

That catches me off guard. "Why only two?"

Jacob gives a smile, one that seems just a touch too smooth. "Because I wouldn't want you working through your birthday."

What? My eyebrows shoot up. "How'd you know about that?"

"Uh, Shepard mentioned it." He shrugs a little too casually and busies himself with his coffee.

Right. I narrow my eyes, trying to read him. Either Jacob's terrible at lying, or Riley's up to something.

"Well, we better get to work." I stand up and head over to the weapons case.

Jacob clears his throat, setting his coffee down a bit abruptly. "On it."

As he comes over, I catch a flicker of something like relief on his face. Whatever they're up to, I'm going to find out.

Normandy, 2185, October 12th 5:58 PM

The mess hall is quieter than usual when I walk in, besides the sound of silverware clinking against a plate. Peering around the corner, I spot Riley sitting alone. Perfect. She doesn't see me slip up behind her, smirking as I lean in.

"Fancy seeing you here." I place my hands on the back of her chair. "Eating dinner alone?"

Riley raises an eyebrow, taking her time to chew before replying. "Keeping tabs on me?"

"Me? Never." I round the table, sliding into the seat across from her and folding my arms. "But maybe I should be. Seems like something's going on around here."

She leans back, giving me a casual shrug. "No idea what you're talking about."

"Right," I say, glaring at her. "Then how do you explain all the strange looks I've been getting? Oh, and you just so happened to mention my birthday to Jacob?"

She takes a slow sip of her drink, a hint of a smirk at the edge of her mouth. "I might have mentioned it in passing."

I scoff. "Come on, Riles. I know you're up to something."

Riley lets out a low chuckle. "Vex, you're seeing things. I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about."

I lean in, holding her gaze. "I'm onto you. I'll find out what you're hiding."

"Maybe," she counters, standing up with her plate in hand. "If there's anything to find."

She winks, grinning playfully before heading to clear her plate, leaving me to slump back in my chair. She can be coy all she wants, but I know her too well. Something's going on, and I'm going to figure it out.

Normandy, 2185, October 14th 1:13 PM

I lay my tools on the table, giving Thane's viper a quick once-over. It's basically already perfect, as usual. Thane always keeps his weapons maintained. I pick up a datapad and check it off the list. Well, now that that's done, time to move on.

The door to the armoury opens behind me. Weird. Jacob's supposed to be on break for another twenty minutes. Glancing over my shoulder, I'm surprised to see Grunt standing in the doorway, looking... almost sad.

"Grunt?" I ask, turning in my chair. "What's up?"

He lumbers over, head slightly lowered, eyes scanning the ground like he's lost in thought. "I'm... confused," he begins slowly, not making eye contact. "About what you humans call a birthday. Shepard says I'm supposed to give you something, but I don't know what that is."

I blink, trying not to laugh. Fucking hell, Riley. "You don't have to get me anything."

"That's what Shepard said." He frowns. "But the others are doing it. I want to know what you're supposed to give."

I sigh, setting down the datapad and leaning back in my seat. "Well, a birthday gift usually means giving someone something meaningful that shows you care. But really, Grunt, you don't have to do anything."

He looks up, a grin crossing his face. "I think I can find something meaningful for tomorrow."

Fuck, I forgot it was tomorrow. I feel my eye twitch slightly. Seems Riley's just telling everyone on the ship. "Honestly, Grunt, it's fine, you really don't-"

"I will," he cuts me off, crossing his arms with a nod. "You're my friend."

I straighten up. "But Grunt, I-"

His hand lands on my head, and he gently messes up my hair. Then he turns toward the door, his grin spreading wider. "I'll bring it tomorrow."

As he steps out, I blow a strand of hair out of my face. Great. It's going to be a long day tomorrow.

Normandy, 2185, October 15th 6:00 AM

Beep, beep, beep.

I open my eyes, staring up at the spacelight. I still feel tired, so I'm glad I don't have training this morning. I can just relax, whenever I can drag myself out of bed.

Before I can even sit up, Riley's face appears over the railing above. "You're awake?" She grins. "Happy birthday, Vex."

I groan and pull the blanket over my face. "Fuck."

"Oh, come on." I hear the smirk in her voice. "At least pretend to be happy about it."

"Riles." I drag the blanket down, reluctantly sitting up. "It's not that I'm unhappy. I just-I don't want to make a big deal out of it, you know?"

She waves her hand, brushing it off. "Relax. Nobody's rolling out a red carpet. Just enjoy it, okay?" She retreats to her desk, and the sound of her chair being pulled out follows.

I sigh, standing up and grabbing my shower bag and clean clothes. As I climb the stairs, I glance over at her typing away at her terminal. "What are you doing?"

"Emails." She pauses and turns in her chair. "What are you doing today?"

I raise an eyebrow. "Why?"

"Come to the mess hall at four," she says with a mischievous smile, glancing at her omni-tool. "But don't go there after one."

I stare at her, my eyes narrowing, I know what she's up to. "Why is the mess hall suddenly off-limits for three hours?"

She half-shrugs, doing her best to look casual. "Garrus."

"Really?" I cross my arms. I'd love to hear this. "What's Archangel got to do with it?"

"He-" She looks away, just barely, but enough for me to notice. "He's working in the kitchen during that time and given your history, it's best to steer clear."

Bullshit, but I can play along. "Oh, got it. I'll stay away from the mess hall until four."

She looks relieved, which only makes me more curious. "Good, so go shower and enjoy your day off."

Shaking my head, I walk toward the bathroom. Just as I reach it, there's a knock on the door. Riley and I exchange glances, and she just shrugs. Well, whatever.

I place my stuff in the bathroom and open the door to find Miranda standing there, her hands behind her back, a slight smile on her lips.

"Good morning, Vex." There's a hint of hesitation on her face, so I give her a curious look. "I wanted to say happy birthday."

"Oh, uh-thanks." I step further into the room, motioning her in. "Did you want to come in?"

She steps inside, noticing Riley at her desk. "Morning, Commander."

Riley gives her a nod and a knowing smile. "Morning."

Miranda turns back to me, her face softening. "This is for you." She brings a bottle out from behind her back, holding it toward me. "I'm not good at giving gifts, but I thought you might like to share this with me tonight."

I take the bottle, and our fingers brush before I read the label. "A 2178 Pinot Noir? Canadian wine?"

She shifts, hands behind her back again. "Yes. I thought it would be fitting since you were born there."

I smile, that's actually so thoughtful. "I love it."

She returns my smile. "I'll let you get ready, then." She takes my hand, giving a brief, warm squeeze before nodding to Riley. "See you later, Shepard."

Riley waves as Miranda heads out, and as soon as the door closes, she smirks at me. "You two are disgustingly adorable."

I glance at her. "Hold that thought." I head down the stairs and grab a pillow from the couch, throwing it at her.

She deflects it and starts laughing as I roll my eyes and head into the bathroom.

Normandy, 2185, October 15th 10:25 AM

"Hi, Vex," Tali greets, soft and cheerful, as she steps out of the engine room. I stop at the top of the stairs leading down to Jack's room, surprised to see her.

"How did you know I was here?" I raise an eyebrow.

"I asked EDI to let me know if you came to engineering." She takes a step forward, something small glinting between her fingers. "Shepard told me gift-giving on birthdays is a human tradition. So... happy birthday." She extends her hands, revealing a necklace.

Of course, Riley did. But, I can't help the slight warm feeling. "Thank you, Tali." I accept it, holding it up. The necklace has a piece of metal encased in a clear stone-like material. "What is it?"

She watches my expression, seeming a bit sad. "Us quarians can't see our homeworld, so we call the Migrant Fleet home. I know you can't see your homeworld either, so... I thought maybe you could use a piece of your own Migrant Fleet."

I look up at her, a smile on my face. "You're saying this is a piece of the Normandy?"

"Yes," she confirms with a nod. "Well, a discarded part of the engine that was replaced, but it was part of our Normandy."

I feel a pang of emotion, and I swallow, my chest tight but in a good way. "Thank you, Tali. I really appreciate this."

She places a hand gently over mine. "You're welcome, Vex. I'll see you later at the part-" Her voice catches. "Bye," she blurts, turning quickly and hurrying back into the engine room.

Uh-okay. Well, that just confirmed my suspicion. I shrug, tucking the necklace carefully into my pocket before heading down the stairs.

Once I reach the bottom, I spot Jack lying on her bed, casually scrolling through a datapad. There doesn't seem to be as many on the ground, which means she just got a new stack of them.

"Hey, Jack." I make my way over, and she quickly sits up at the sound of my voice. "Still nothing?"

"Not a thing." She glances down at the scattered datapads with a sigh. "I know it's in here though."

"Does-" I hesitate, not sure if I should ask. "Does Miranda help with the files?"

Jack gives me a curious look before shrugging. "She's the one I have to go to when I need new information put on them." She smirks to herself. "She doesn't like our little chats."

"I can imagine." Miranda never mentions it to me, which makes sense. She probably knows I hang around Jack.

Jack shifts slightly and then reaches behind her bed, pulling out a sleek, black leather jacket. She tosses it to me. "Anyway, here. For your birthday, or whatever."

I catch it, looking it over. It's well-made and looks like a good fit. Jack knows her stuff. "This is great. Thanks, Jack." I meet her eyes, genuinely surprised she got me something. "I love it."

She waves a dismissive hand, trying to play it off. "Yeah, yeah, just don't mention it."

"I mean it." I grin, unable to hide it.

She rolls her eyes. "Whatever you say, Ward."

Normandy, 2185, October 15th 1:11 PM

Kelly's gaze snaps to me as the elevator doors slide open onto the CIC. Oh, no. Please don't start-

"Vex," she greets with a bright smile. "Happy birthday." Fuck.

Suppressing a sigh, I step out of the elevator and try to act like I'm not annoyed. "Oh. Thanks, Kelly."

"You're welcome." She waves a dismissive hand before leaning in. "Actually, I wanted to ask you how Jack's been?"

I blink. "Jack? Couldn't you just... ask her yourself?"

Kelly starts to look flustered. "She doesn't exactly want to talk to me."

Can't imagine why. I shrug and edge toward the armoury, wanting nothing more than to leave this conversation. "Look, sorry. I can't really help you with that. So, I'll just be going now." Before she can respond, I slide through the armoury door and let it close behind me.

I can hear Kelly's muffled voice before it's cut off mid-sentence. I can't help but smirk as I turn, only to find Jacob staring at me with a confused look.

We lock eyes before I just shrug again. "Don't ask."

Jacob shakes his head with a small smile. "I won't." Standing, he reaches over to the desk and picks up a small box, extending it toward me. "Here, happy birthday."

"Thank you." I take the box, quickly opening it. Inside is a sniper scope, the exact model I've been eyeing for weeks. The one that's more stable while moving and highlights targets through smoke. I turn it over in my hands, admiring every detail. "Jacob, I don't even know what to say."

"Don't mention it." He shrugs it off, settling back down at the table. "I was going to give it to you later since you're not supposed to be working today. But, no harm in giving you it now."

"Working on my own sniper doesn't count as work," I reply, grinning. "Can I go grab it?"

Jacob lets out a sigh, but smiles anyway. "Yeah, go get it. I won't stop you."

"Yes!" Closing the box, I set it down carefully on the table and turn toward the door. As I head out, I can hear him chuckling behind me.

Normandy, 2185, October 15th 4:01 PM

The lights are dim as I step onto the crew deck, and I catch a few figures slipping behind corners and ducking behind furniture. I'm right on time.

"Surprise!"

The lights flicker on, and everyone pops out of their hiding spots with grins on their faces. I try to look shocked, putting on the best act I can. But, I catch Riley and Miranda exchanging a glance. They don't buy it.

"Happy birthday, Vex." Riley grins, coming over and patting my shoulder. "Enjoy it while you can."

Terrible music kicks in, definitely Joker's playlist. Surprisingly, I don't mind it much right now. As people start coming over to say hello, Kasumi drapes an arm around my shoulder, holding a navy-blue hoodie in front of me.

"Happy birthday, I got you this," she says with a wink.

"Thanks." I examine it, brand new and most likely stolen. That checks out for Kasumi.

She slips away as Joker approaches. "Happy birthday, Ward." He holds out a device. It's small, white and blue, and has a button on it.

I take it, raising an eyebrow. "What is it?"

"It's like a pocket-sized Joker," he explains proudly. "For when you need advice." He clicks the button, and his voice comes out.

"It's okay to eat food that's just 'a little bit expired,' it won't hurt you," says the recording.

"Perfect," I mutter, rolling my eyes but smiling. "Should've known."

"Genius, right?" Joker grins before retreating to find a seat.

Someone taps my shoulder, and I turn to see Grunt holding his claymore out toward me with a serious look on his face. "Vex. Take it."

Blinking in surprise, I take a small step back. "Grunt, that's your shotgun. I can't take that from you."

He frowns, confused. "But everyone said I had to give you something. This is what I use the most."

I stifle a laugh. "Seriously, you didn't have to put so much thought into it. How about... you just give me a hug instead?"

After a moment of hesitation, he nods. "That works." He pulls me in for a hug that nearly cracks my ribs.

"Okay." I pat his back. "That's good."

He releases me and steps back with a smile. "I'm supposed to say happy birthday."

"Thanks, big guy." I place a hand on his shoulder. "Now go put that gun away and enjoy the party."

As he walks away, I notice Jack trying to convince Riley to join in where people have started to dance. I can tell Jack's having fun. I'm happy she's not just hiding in her room.

"Come on, Shepard," Jack urges, grinning as I walk over.

Riley crosses her arms, smirking. "Trust me, you don't want to see me dance."

"I don't know," I reply, glancing at Jack. "I kind of do."

Jack's eyes light up. "See? The birthday girl wants you to."

"You asked for it." Riley sighs, striding past us onto the makeshift dance floor. She starts moving-or trying to. Awkward shuffling is the best description I have for it.

Jack bursts into laughter, leaning into me. "Is something wrong with her?"

I can't help but smile, watching as Jack heads over and cheers Riley on. Then she turns to me, motioning for me to join. Shrugging, I set my gifts on the table and hurry over.

The dancing is fun and by the time I finally pull away, the party is in full swing. I feel a light touch on my back as someone passes me. Turning around, I see Miranda, who glances at me and nods toward the starboard observation room.

Following her, I slip away while everyone is distracted and find her waiting by the open door. As it closes, she takes my hand, leading me to one of the couches.

"Are you enjoying yourself?" she asks, her fingers intertwined with mine.

"Yeah, I am. It's a nice surprise," I admit, giving her hand a squeeze.

She arches an eyebrow. "I think we both know you knew."

I laugh, guess I'm caught. "Fine, maybe I knew. People aren't as sneaky as they think."

Miranda leans into me, pressing her lips against mine in a gentle kiss before she pulls back. "Then let me make tonight a surprise for you instead. Come to my quarters after the party?"

I tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. "I'd love to."

She starts to lean in again but stops. "Good, because we've used up all the time Shepard gave me."

Laughing softly, I nod. "Okay, I'll save it for tonight."

With one last smile, she pats my leg and stands up. "You should head back first. It's less suspicious that way."

I get up to leave, planting one last kiss on her lips before she pulls away, playfully smacking my arm, a smile still lingering on her face. I mirror it, watching her as the door slides closed between us.

I rejoin the party just as Riley catches my eye. She gives me a nod before lifting her glass, and everyone gradually falls silent.

Riley clears her throat. "Vex and I go way back." Oh, no. "To what feels like a lifetime ago now." She pauses, her gaze softening. "When we met, she was thirteen and looking out for her brother. After that, I watched her take on every challenge, push every limit, and succeed, well, most of the time at least."

There's a few murmurs from the crew as she continues. "But now, she's more than just that kid. She's become someone who fights not just because she's strong, but because she cares. Because she believes in what we're doing, and in making things right, even when it doesn't go as planned." She lifts her glass higher, her gaze meeting mine. "Vex, I know Jay would be proud of you because I'm proud of you. So here's to you."

Everyone raises their glasses, chanting, "Here's to Vex!"

I feel my throat tighten as tears well up. I step back, needing a moment, and slip out of sight to the elevator.

The tears fall freely once I'm alone, and I barely notice Riley following me until she rests a gentle hand on my shoulder.

She gives me a sad smile. "I'm sorry, Vex. Maybe I shouldn't have-"

"No." I shake my head, wiping my eyes. "It's okay. I just..." My voice trails off.

With a soft smile, she hands me a framed photo. It's an old picture of her, me, and Jay. We're all laughing, happy. The memories hit me hard, and I can't help but swallow. Another tear runs down my face as Riley squeezes my shoulder.

Normandy, 2185, October 15th 8:28 PM

The party finally winds down, and most of the crew has already gone to bed. Riley is one of the last few left, stacking plates.

"You don't have to stay and help clean," she says, waving me off. "I know where you'd rather be."

I glance towards Miranda's office door. "Yeah, but I don't want to make it obvious."

"I'll handle it," she suggests, stepping away from the pile of plates. "Just pretend to leave."

I nod, moving toward the elevator and announcing to the room, "All right, I'm heading to bed. Goodnight, everyone."

As the crew calls out their goodnights, Riley grabs their attention. "Listen up. Let's get this place spotless, and then we're all out of here."

Slipping quietly back toward Miranda's office, I hide behind the wall. As I expected, it's unlocked. Inside, I spot Miranda across the room, already dressed in her robe. She stands up, so I put a finger to my lips, waiting for the door to close.

Once it does, she moves over to her desk where a bottle of wine and two glasses sit waiting. "The commander returned the bottle earlier today."

"Of course." I take a step forward, tapping my fingers on the desk. "Riley thought of everything."

She chuckles softly and fills the glasses, handing one to me. "How do you feel after her toast? I wanted to check on you."

I let out a breath. "A bit overwhelmed."

"I thought so." She raises her glass, clinking it softly against mine. "Just one. We're still on the mission."

"Deal." I take a sip. It's very... sweet and fruity. "Yep, that's Canadian wine."

She arches an eyebrow. "You don't like it?"

"A little sweetness never hurt anyone," I reply, setting the glass down. I pause, feeling nervous all of a sudden at what I'm about to ask. "Since it's my birthday, can I ask you something?"

That catches her interest. "You could have asked me any time, but go on."

I take a breath, trying not to feel self-conscious. "What made you interested in me?"

She holds my gaze as a small smile forms on her lips. "Because you don't see me as anything but... me."

That's-I suppose that's true. I'm not the only one though. "Riley does that as well."

She places her glass on the desk, moving in closer until her hand traces up my arm to my shoulder, fingertips grazing my skin. "Yes, but I don't want the commander." Her hands slide over my shoulders, up to the back of my neck. Her lips hover just inches from mine. "I want you."

"Oh-" I barely get a word out before her lips gently meet mine. I don't get much time to enjoy it before she pulls back. She smiles as she takes my hands.

"Come with me," she murmurs, guiding me gently towards her bed. She pushes me onto it and her hands fall to the tie of her robe. "I did promise a surprise."

The robe slides off her shoulders, falling to the floor in a pool around her feet, revealing her bare body beneath. I smile as she steps toward me and traces her hands up my thighs, bringing her lips to mine again.

Thank you for reading.