Hello, Everyone! I live! I know it has been a while since my last post, and I sincerely apologize. Damn life getting in the way! Work has been absolutely crazy but I am getting through it! This chapter is also very long, about twice the length of a regular chapter. There is a lot in this one and I didn't want to force/rush it. I hope I don't have too many mistakes in here, but I apologize if there are. I just didn't want to make you guys wait another few days for it! Okay, I will keep this short, because I am sure you are all itching to read it! (I hope so anyway!) Thank you to everyone sticking with me and all of those reading/following/favoriting and reviewing; you guys and gals keep me writing. Again, thank you all for your support and interest in my story, and I hope you enjoy this chapter.
P.S. Songs that are in this chapter will be referenced at the end of the chapter.
Chapter 17
This was the worst feeling ever; Tali was sure of it. You would think that I would be used to issues like this by now. Keelah! Tali clenched her fist in frustration. My face itches! She only hoped that one day she wouldn't have to live in the enviro-suit and would be able to see the galaxy with her own eyes.
The beep of her omni-tool interrupted her thoughts and when she read the message she had completely forgotten about her itch. It made her a little sad that she couldn't get ready to go out like most females, but at least Shepard was willing to be extra girly tonight. She met up with Liara in the hallway and the two smiled at each other. They had shared their thoughts and done their research for how they could "doll" Shepard up in a manner that would appeal to a turian but not make Shepard suspicious enough to question them. Really, there wasn't much, there species were very different; so, they decided to go the more human route where turian failed.
Shepard's door was locked when they arrived and they gave each other a quizzical look after studying the door.
"We agreed on 1500, right?" Liara asked, to which Tali nodded.
Jane sat on her bed with her hands resting on her knee, still too sore to bend it up to her chest. She hadn't thought about the time yet, she was busy thinking about the events that happened over the last week and a half.
John was released the day after she was, and even with accelerated healing in this day, he would have to keep a cast on his arm for another couple of weeks but his leg hadn't been as severe and he would be able to walk without assistance tonight. Hannah Shepard had stuck around for most of the week insisting on taking care of her children, though John and Jane had thoughts that it just gave her a good opportunity to snoop in their lives as well.
Hannah had insisted on meeting the crew to thank them for serving with her children, as well as congratulate them on their accomplishments. Wanting to keep things more on the business side (and hoping for only a quick meeting), Jane requested everyone (besides Joker, who they spoke to in the cockpit) to be in the cargo bay by the time they had finished the quick tour of the Normandy.
"Hello, everyone," Jane greeted, her body rigid and in her best 'Commander' pose. "This is our mother, Captain Hannah Shepard." John stood on the other side of Hannah looking more uncomfortable and grouchy than anyone had ever seen him. He had always been the light-hearted and good-humored one, but now, he could have taken on Wrex in his sourness. Jane couldn't tell what she was feeling as her mother met everyone. Most of the words that were spoken barely even registered in her mind. The only one that had bothered her was when she met Kaidan.
"Mother," Jane started, "this is Lieutenant Kaidan Alenko."
"Ah, Kaidan Alenko, pleasure meeting you," Hannah greeted him. "Relax now, this is not an inspection."
Kaidan completed his salute, "Thank you ma'am. Pleasure meeting you, Captain Shepard. Serving under your daughter has been an honor."
Jane felt that something had been odd in the meeting, and the way her mother looked between them with a strange grin was uncomfortable.
After the quick meet and greet, they went back to Jane's quarters to say goodbye. John gave his mother a stiff hug, "Good to see you again, Mom."
"You too, John."
Jane watched the exchange and noticed the scrutinizing eye her mother gave John; a look that she was very used to as well. John turned to his sister, "I'll see you around." She only nodded as he hobbled out of the room, his leg still a little weak from his injuries.
As the door shut, Hannah sighed, "I just wish that boy would get his priorities straight."
"There is nothing wrong with his priorities, Mom. He has made quite a life for himself, including before he joined me."
Hannah sent a critical look towards her daughter, "It isn't the same. But I am glad that you found the path that is meant for you." She ran a hand over her daughter's hair. Jane motioned to the chairs at the table and they both sat. "You have an excellent crew, Jane. I must say that I am impressed. I am glad that you don't discriminate in your crew like some Alliance members. And to get a krogan and a turian to work together? Remarkable."
"Thank you," Jane gave a faint smile. "It wasn't the easiest task to accomplish, but I would even say that they are friends now. Once they realized that the species, all species, really aren't that different."
The older woman nodded in agreement. "The quarian and the asari both seem to be more interested in things outside the battlefield. But they are efficient fighters?"
"Of course. For Liara being a scientist, she is quite formidable. And Tali, she is so smart and intuitive. Everyone makes it very hard for me to decide who goes with me on missions."
Hannah weighed her daughter's behavior; she seemed to be softened up enough for what she was about to mention, "And your lieutenant? Kaidan? Was it?"
Jane fought to keep herself relaxed. She was a still a little on edge about what he had said, though a lot of her frustrations with him had faded; the flowers still fresh in her mind, and on her desk. "He is a very capable fighter. Biotic as well."
"Ah… a biotic."
Jane didn't like the sound of that and looked over at her mother. What is she up to?
"I know this may come across as a bit strange to ask… but, is he just your lieutenant?"
'Strange' doesn't even begin to describe it… "Mom! That would be unacceptable. I am his commanding officer and Alliance protocol forbids it."
"You technically are not Alliance."
That sounds only too familiar. "Of all people… I never thought I would hear you suggest something like that."
"I only ask, Jane," Hannah said innocently. "He seems to hold you in high regard." She chose her words carefully, trying to keep the fact hidden that she had seen the flowers and was pretty sure more was going on than what her daughter was telling her. "It just… wouldn't hurt to start thinking about the future." She studied her daughter's face which was only set in confusion and probably some frustration. "I just mean to say that you won't be young forever and I won't always be around for important events in your life."
"Oh my God…" Jane shook her head and looked at the ceiling. "You are not saying what I think you are saying… Please tell me that I am dreaming."
"You and John are all that I have left," she reached out and placed a hand on her daughter's, "And the mother in me would like to see her children be happy and start a family of their own. And between you and me, I doubt that John is in a position to be giving me any grandchildren."
"And I am?!" Jane was getting a little exasperated. This was not happening. It couldn't be happening. She did not want to have this conversation with her mother.
"Jane," Hannah said with her tone stern, "that is no way to act. I was merely suggesting it. And sometimes," her voice had turned softer again, "love grows between two people when they least expect it, commanding officer or not."
Jane fought to keep her eyes from rolling and managed to keep her face calm while staring down her mother.
"In any case," Hannah said, "I am glad that I got the chance to see you two again." They stood and gave each other a hug. "Do you know when you are shipping out again?"
"For now, we are grounded until repairs on the Normandy are completed. Rumor is that the Council would like to put me on a special assignment, but they have yet to share that."
"Well, good luck, and congratulations, again." Hannah smiled down at her daughter, "I love you, sweetheart."
"Love you too, Mom."
Jane's mind jumped forward a few days to when the Council called her in. Special assignment my ass, she thought, still bitter about what they had decided. Again, they would sweep the Reaper threat under the rug and act as if Saren had manipulated the geth into doing his bidding. They wanted her out of the way; that was for sure. They wanted to make sure she wouldn't cause too much of a fuss and what better way than by getting her off the Citadel quickly. But she wouldn't go away quietly. That wasn't her way. While she would be out "hunting pockets of geth resistance" she would also be looking for more solid proof of the Reapers.
"Keelah, Shepard," Tali said entering the room and bringing Jane back to reality. "Thankfully you hadn't sent your special lock on the door or we would have missed the whole evening!"
"Sorry," Jane smiled sheepishly and got off the bed, "Lost in my thoughts."
"Can't say that I blame you," Liara smiled. "A lot has happened in the last few weeks. Are you sure you are up for tonight?"
"Of course she is!" Tali answered for her. "Have you decided what you are wearing?" she brought the topic back to what she deemed important, at least for the time being.
"Not really, no."
"Well, we have," Tali looked over to Liara, her eyes crinkling, indicating a smile. They moved over to the drawers under her bed and pulled out the familiar items they had picked up last time they had shore leave.
Jane eyed the garments, "I don't know. Isn't the top a little too… dressy? And a bit much?" Jane chuckled awkwardly.
"I have been doing some research and you said it yourself that by wearing these 'jeans' it 'dresses down' the garment," Liara answered with a smile.
Jane narrowed her eyes, "I need to watch what I say around you. Okay, but what about those shoes? Heels? If I am to be doing the amount of drinking that has been implied, I seriously think I should be wearing flats or boots."
"No," Tali said stenly. "This is what you are wearing. Now, let's get started on your hair and makeup."
Garrus heard the laughing coming from Shepard's room and struggled to keep his head in the game. To pass the time, Joker and John had suggested a quick card game and a something they called "pre-gaming" before heading out. He was having a hard enough time staying focused, and more distractions were not helping; he was losing.
"I don't know what gambling gods I need to be thanking, but I will take it!" Joker shouted as he laid out his cards; another winning hand. Everyone groaned as he collected the pot.
Kaidan began to shuffle the cards for the next hand and began to say something but Garrus's mind was already gone; thinking back on his time since the hospital.
He had been accepted into the Spectre training program; not much of a wait time when your Spectre friend goes behind your back and pulls a few strings along with a Councilor giving his recommendation. The training would start next week, which was great, and he was excited for it, but that meant he would no longer be a member of Shepard's crew. The Normandy crew would be shipping out tomorrow and there was no telling when they would see each other again.
A year. That is how long his training would last, a year. And, hopefully, after that he would then be evaluated by a Spectre and receive his own Spectre title. Then, and only then, could he make his own choices. I could join Jane if the offer still stood. He knew that he felt something more than just friendship towards her, but how could he tell her when they were about to be separated? It wouldn't be fair, to either of them. Keeping quiet would be best; especially since he still didn't know if she felt the same towards him.
He doubted it.
Sometimes it was hard to keep his mind off the topic and it proved to be inconvenient, at best. When he first met Jane and John's mother, Captain Hannah Shepard, he was tense and her choice of words didn't help.
Hannah stood before him and he looked down at her, studying her features. Garrus could see a few details that made it obvious she was related to the Shepards he knew; the biggest factor being that they all had the same eyes.
"So you are the one who showed interest in Jane first?" Hannah said after the pleasantries were exchanged.
Garrus was a little taken aback. There is no way she could know. "I'm sorry?" he asked.
"You were contemplating joining Jane's squad first and John followed?" Hannah clarified.
Oh.
John looked over at Garrus, his eyes staring a hole into his cards that he had yet to pick up. Knocking on the table in front of his friend, he smiled at the turian, "Hey Mr. Deep-in-Thought! You going to play the game or what?"
Garrus snapped back and fumbled with his cards while clearing his throat and nodding.
John watched his friend and kept the concern hidden from his face. There had been something definitively different about his friend since their confrontation with Saren. Maybe it is just because he won't be with us anymore, John reasoned.
Jane looked at herself in the mirror. The girls had really outdone themselves and had definitely done their research about female human culture. She still wasn't sure it was best to have a portion of her back showing (allowing everyone to see her tattoos) or even some of the skin above her hips where the corset didn't cover. But when else would she wear it?
She ran her hands along the top, she had to admit, it did bring out her figure, despite the fact that her torso was still sore. There was something oddly familiar about it though. What was it? The sharp detailing in the lines? The dark blue and black? The way it looked like armor?
It all clicked and Jane stormed out of her bathroom to glare at her friends. "You bitches! You two did this on purpose!"
Tali and Liara both looked at one another, each trying to feign ignorance.
"Don't play dumb with me!" Jane crossed her arms over her chest, "You knew all along what this looked like."
"You know, Shepard, if you don't keep your voice down, some people might be able to hear you," Tali cautioned.
Jane stopped and took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. "This top looks like Garrus's armor and the blue is the color of his clan markings."
"Oh, is that why it seems so familiar?" Tali struggled to keep control of her voice but a giggle escaped. The giggle caused Liara to break down and Tali could no longer keep a calm face. They both burst out in laughter as Jane rolled her eyes at them. "Oh, come on, Shepard! Don't deny the attraction."
"We are just friends," she said quietly.
"For now," Liara smiled. "You have to take a chance sometime, Shepard."
Tali followed up, "You won't be his commanding officer anymore so you can finally stop using that as an excuse."
"We are too different. It couldn't work," Jane said quietly while lowering her head.
"Shepard," Liara said sternly, "You two would hardly be the first turian-human couple. Just because it isn't common doesn't mean it won't work."
Jane opened her mouth to argue but she knew it was futile. "How long have you two known?"
"We have always had our suspicions, but you just confirmed them," Tali smirked.
Rolling her eyes at her friend, Jane looked down at herself. "I should probably change before we go. I don't think I can wear this…"
"Nope! Sorry!" Tali said rushing forward and grabbing Jane's arm and pulling her to the door. "If we procrastinate any more, we will be late."
"Late?" Jane questioned. "We get there on our own time."
"Not in my mind." She marched out of the room dragging Shepard behind her and Liara on the other side to where the guys were all waiting at the table. "Alright, boys! Let's head out."
Eyebrows rose as they saw their commanding officer in something that was definitely not her usual wardrobe. Garrus immediately recognized his clan blue and he had to admit, it looked good on her. The blue was lovely against her pale skin and golden fringe, and it also brought out the blue in her eyes. He clamped his mandibles down to keep them from showing his shock and he wanted to compliment her, but what would be appropriate?
Kaidan was the first to speak, "Wow, Shepard, you look amazing."
"Thank you, Alenko," Jane said quietly. "Uh, we should probably get going."
"No, no, no," John spoke up and stepped in front of his sister. "You are not going out like that."
Jane raised an eyebrow at him, "Oh, really? I had been thinking of changing, but now that you show objection, I think I will wear this." Linking her arms through Tali and Liara's, Jane smiled at her brother and then the men still at the table. "Come now, let's not be late," and they strolled out of the room.
"Drink! Drink! Drink! Drink! Drink! Drink! Drink! Drink!" the crowd chorused as Wrex and Jane chugged their respective bottles.
Shepard's team had expected it to be practically empty with the attack on the Citadel having been within the last two weeks. But, when words get around that Spectre Shepard will be celebrating with her team, people tend to show up. All of the crew would have preferred it to be a smaller crowd, but they wouldn't argue with the free drinks; they hadn't paid for one yet.
Wrex slammed his bottle down, with Jane close behind, and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. A cheer erupted from the crowd and he looked over at his friend. A deep, booming laugh erupted from him and he clapped Jane a little too hard on the back making her go forward a bit. "I gotta say, Shepard! I didn't think you had it in you!" He had lost track of the number of drinks they had already downed and yet Shepard was still keeping up with him. "Maybe we should tone it down, Shepard. Wouldn't want you to have to end things early."
Jane looked up at him, the effects of the alcohol already taking their toll, but she wasn't about to give up. Right now, she wasn't in too bad of shape, but she knew that later, when more had been absorbed into her system, she would be up shit creek. She punched Wrex in the arm with a smirk on her face, "What? Worried that I might be able to outlast you?" She knew that she didn't have a chance to beat him in a straight up drinking contest. Wrex was bigger and some of the drinks he had chosen affected humans more than it did other species. He was playing dirty and she had to do the same, because she was too stubborn to admit defeat. "Can I get a double of a Singapore Sling?" Jane asked the bartender and tried to bring up the recipe but was not getting very far.
"Oh, don't worry about that! I love that drink!" she replied. This was one benefit of having a human bartender.
"Jane, I really think that you should slow it down," Joker leaned in and whispered to her.
"Whoooooaaa! Someone pinch me! I must be dreaming! Joker being the voice of reason here?" Jane laughed, her words beginning to slur.
"I think that you will find that we are all in agreement here," John chimed in, concern heavy in his words. He looked around at the table and everyone nodded.
"She said that she wanted to continue, we continue!" Wrex laughed.
Garrus stayed quiet off to the side but he agreed with Joker and John. Humans were not built for the amount of alcohol consumption that krogans could handle. Any species would have trouble keeping up with them. He did know that if you told Shepard what she should or should not do, she wouldn't listen. So, how best to make her see reason?
The bartender came back and set the drinks down at both of them. Wrex raised a brow at the drink and then looked over at Shepard, "What the hell is this?" Until now, they had been ordering bottles.
"What, Wrex? Can't handle a simple human drink?"
He grumbled at her and picked up the drink. Sniffing at it, he cautiously took a gulp of it and threw the glass down, "WHAT IS THIS? POISON?"
Everyone laughed as Wrex sputtered with the drink. "Aww, what's wrong, Wrex? Too sweet for you?"
"This is disgusting! I can't drink this!"
"A draw, then?" Jane suggested.
Wrex glared at her and brought his forehead down to her. He knew what she was doing, and as much as he wanted to beat her, this was probably the best alternative so they could keep their pride intact and not kill Shepard. "Fine, Shepard. You played this one well." Jane smirked at him and he leaned back allowing a loud roar of laughter out. "This drunk and you are still able to strategize! I knew there was a reason I stayed with you!" He placed a hand on her shoulder and gave her a good shake before ordering a bottle of ryncol and plopping back down. "Enjoy yourself, Shepard, you deserve it."
"Awww, thanks, Wrex! I can now enjoy my evening with your blessing!" Jane swiveled around in her seat and looked around at her crew. "I just want to thank you guys, all of you, for sticking with me."
"Come on, now," Joker rolled his eyes, "I can't take too much of this sentimental crap."
Jane smiled at him and swayed in her seat, now that she had paused, she could feel the alcohol reaching her mind. She heard the muffled conversations around her and tried to focus on something specific. Drinking this much was not a good idea and she had a feeling she might do some things she could regret. Suddenly, she hopped up, her eyes bright, "Let's go dance!"
"I thought you didn't dance," Joker winked.
Kaidan moved forward to offer his hand to her but Jane had grabbed Tali and reached for Liara who backed away. "I don't think I can, Shepard," Liara smiled.
"Oh! Don't be silly!" Jane grabbed her friend and the trio went out on the dance floor.
John leaned towards Garrus and whispered to him, "Seems that he was thwarted again," he chuckled.
Garrus could only nod as he looked out into the throng of people dancing to the electronic beats. Liara and Tali both looked a little uncomfortable and unsure of what they were doing but Jane looked to be completely in her element; it even seemed that she was trying to teach her friends a few moves. Turians don't dance, he said to himself, but I wouldn't mind making a fool of myself with her. He heard Kaidan and John speaking but he wasn't listening, he merely sat sipping on his drink and stealing glances at their female companions. As he was watching them dance, he saw Jane turn and lock eyes with him. He quickly looked away but could still feel her looking at him and gave in to look back. Her eyes were still on him and she raised her hand motioning for him to join her. Taking a quick survey of his surroundings, he found no one else looking at her, or him, so he knew that she definitely meant him. Slowly, he shook his head at her, his subharmonics humming in laughter. She rolled her eyes at him and seemed to huff out in annoyance and moved further into the crowd.
He felt a small thought creep into his mind telling him to follow her, keep an eye on her, make sure she would be safe, but before he could move, his mind cued into the conversation around him.
"Wrex, man, why did you give in to that draw?" Joker asked the krogan, "You could have easily finished her."
The krogan grumbled a little and looked away almost ashamed, "I can't stand anything that is sweet, and Shepard knows that somehow. Besides, I don't think letting her get shit-faced into oblivion is a friendly thing to do."
"Don't tell me you are getting soft on us," Garrus jabbed.
"Shut it, turian. And if any of you breathe a word of this, I will personally smash your heads into the floor."
They all shared a laugh and a few of them ordered another round. "So," Kaidan piped up, "I haven't heard everyone's plans. Are we all still sticking together after this? We ship out tomorrow."
"Hardly," Joker answered him. "John and I are sticking around, of course. I have heard that Liara is on the fence, Wrex and Garrus here are leaving, and… what is Tali doing, John?"
John looked a little sheepish at being put on the spot but answered calmly, "She will eventually go back to the Flotilla, but for now, she has agreed to stay with us for a bit longer."
"Bet you are happy about that," harrumphed Wrex; John shrugged in reply and hid his smile by taking a drink.
"Why aren't you guys staying?" Kaidan asked.
"Going back to my home world," Wrex answered. "Gotta beat them into shape."
Heads turned to Garrus. He hadn't been sharing the story with many people, despite Jane telling him to be proud of it, "I have actually been accepted into a Spectre training program. Start in about a week."
"Wow, congratulations," Kaidan said. He liked Garrus, he was an amazing sniper and someone you would definitely want watching your back, but Kaidan couldn't help but feel a little thankful that he wouldn't be around on the Normandy.
"Great," Wrex roared, "Now we are going to have you AND Shepard as Spectres trying to save the galaxy?"
"That's what I say, right?" Joker chuckled, "Evil doers beware!"
Garrus shook his head at the teasing and looked out over the crowd, hoping to find Jane again.
Jane swayed and moved to the music, her mind already hazy and becoming lost to the sounds around her. The music wasn't as smooth as she liked, and of course it was too computer-generated. She wasn't sure how much time had passed but she noticed her companions beginning to get a little tired. They were being good sports about it, Jane would give them that.
"You guys need to take a break?" she called out to Tali and Liara, they nodded in response.
After getting away from the excessively loud dance floor, Liara turned to Jane, "So, I take it that you like to dance, Shepard?"
"I LOVE it!" Jane practically yelled. They had reached the group again and Jane slipped between John and Garrus to lean on the bar and ordered another drink. She turned around and leaned her back against the bar. Looking over John's shoulder she continued to speak to the girls, "Though, I have to say, they could use a change in music!"
"You know places like this," Joker called out, "they only play what is current."
"Until noooow!" Jane sang bringing up her omni-tool.
John grabbed her wrist, "You are not hacking their system, sis. You need to slow things down."
She narrowed her eyes at him and pouted; then, in a very un-commander-like manner, stuck her tongue out at him. "I will slow down," she grabbed her drink, "when I damn well please," and she knocked it back.
"You are so damn stubborn," John shook his head.
"You started it!" Looking at her group she began to wave her arms, "Alright, everyone! Get up! Time to dance!"
"Jane! Liara and I were just out there! We need a break!"
"Fine! Peace out, mo-fo's!" Jane pushed herself off the bar and practically skipped out to the dance floor again.
Joker and Liara shared a look and he decided to speak up, "Someone should probably go out there and keep an eye on her." When John turned on his friend with a strange look, Joker simply shrugged and feigned ignorance.
"Did you have fun out there?" John asked Tali and Liara (but mostly Tali).
The shared a look, "We are not ones for dancing," Liara said.
"But we did have fun," Tali smiled behind her helmet. "I must say, humans and asari are built better for dancing."
"Oh, come on," John said standing up and putting an arm over Tali's shoulders, "You just have to find your own way of dancing." He put his hand out to Tali.
She looked down at John's hand, a thousand thoughts rushing through her head. Eventually, Tali grinned at the man before her and placed her hand in his; she only wished he could see the smile. Tali took one fleeting look back at Liara who was trying to hide the smirk on her face. As they reached the dance floor, John sent her in a slow turn and began to move with the music. Tali tried to follow his moves and even managed to throw in a few she had learned from Jane.
"See?" John smiled at her, his eyes lingering at her hips, "Nothing to it!"
Tali shook her head, "Jane tried to teach me, but I don't think I am anywhere near correct."
"Wait… Jane taught you things like that?" John looked around trying to spot his sister. He had never seen his sister truly drunk, but he was starting to think that the alcohol had caught up to her; especially if she was teaching rather sensual moves.
As if on cue, Jane stumbled through a group of partyers, "Oops! Sorry!" She threw her arms around Tali and John, "Hey, guys! God, this is so much fun! I cannot remember the last time I relaxed like this!" Pausing, she placed a finger on her chin, "You know what? I don't think I ever have. Ugh! What is with this music? I think we need a change!" Jane pulled up her omni-tool and began to type away on it.
"Jane!" John shouted and tried to grab for her but she ducked away from him, "What do you think you are doing? Stop it."
"Nope! Plan is already in motion!" And she practically skipped away towards the bar.
"Why not just let her have this night?" Tali suggested.
"I can't believe that I am going to say this…" John started, "But I think I will agree with you… for now."
Jane could tell that her thoughts and actions were being clouded by the alcohol, but she just couldn't stop herself; some things just seemed to be too great of an idea. It didn't take her long to break into the sound system; it wasn't what you would call a high priority in security. Leaving the link up to her omni-tool, she put it away and rejoined her group still hanging out at the bar. "You guys are all being lame! Just sitting here at the bar? Come on! Seriously! Get out here and dance!" Jane practically whined.
"Krogan don't dance," Wrex huffed. While humans varied in their reactions to alcohol, most krogan just became crankier. He knew that he would have to keep himself in check until some of it had faded from his system, and that meant avoiding most confrontations; but he was still having a good time.
"Turians don't either," Garrus added quickly and took another long pull from his drink.
Jane slipped between Joker and Garrus, her back resting against the bar. She leaned closer to Garrus and snatched the drink out of his hand, "I don't accept that as an answer." Downing his drink, she placed the glass in front of him with a smirk, "I just danced with a turian out there," she nodded to the crowd behind him, "So, you are lying to me."
Garrus smirked at her at tapped a gloved talon on the bar, requesting another drink, "This turian does not dance." To his relief, someone refilled his drink quickly; again, being part of a group that is a big deal had its perks. Closing his fingers around the glass, he brought it to his mouth, but before he could take one sip, it was out of his hand again.
She grinned slyly at him and swirled the liquid in the glass. "So!" Jane practically shouted and turned to the rest of the group. She propped her arm up on Garrus's shoulder, glad that he was sitting down, otherwise she would not have reached). Taking a swig of the dextro-based alcohol, she said, "Who else is up for joining me?"
"I would love to," Joker clinked his glass to Jane's stolen one, "but you know that my bones would just snap… And that wouldn't be fun for anyone."
"Sorry, Shepard," Liara apologized, "It isn't quite 'me'."
Kaidan sat quietly at the end, watching Jane's reaction as she tried not to let her face fall in disappointment. Downing the rest of his drink, he got up to stand on the outside of the group. "Let's go."
Everyone turned to look at him. "What?" Jane said, a little confused.
"You wanted to go dance, so let's go."
Jane stared at Kaidan for a moment and could feel Joker's eyes on her. "Alright," she gave him a small smile, "Sure. Let's go." Finishing the rest of Garrus's drink, she held it out to him until the turian closed his talons around the bottom of the glass. "Thanks for the drink, big guy," she patted Garrus on the shoulder and hopped over to Kaidan.
Garrus watched them leave, his subharmonics emanating a low growl. His hand closed around the glass, the only thing keeping his talons from cracking it being the material of his gloves. Setting it back down, he ordered another and finished it as soon as it arrived. With any amount of luck, he would be able to get drunk and forget about the current events.
"You know," Joker started, "I gotta give the guy credit. At least he took a chance." The human pilot looked between Liara and Wrex, their minds in the same place as his. "I have seen the way she dances. Alenko is in for a treat." He looked over at the turian and had to hold in a laugh; if Joker continued these jabs, Garrus might kill someone. "You know, there was this one time – wait… what the hell is playing?"
The group paused and began to listen to the music just like everyone else in the club. People seemed to be looking around for answers, questioning when the club ever played songs with lyrics. They noticed the crowd parting slightly where the only real movement was occurring and they saw Jane. Kaidan stood awkwardly to the side, unsure how to deal with the music as well. A few people began to move slightly, rocking in time to the music and discovering that they liked it.
"Leave it to her to change everyone's minds," John chuckled as he approached with Tali.
"She's crazy!" Tali exclaimed, "There is no other explanation."
"We all knew that," Joker chuckled.
They weren't sure how much time had passed, yet no one bothered to check it either. Jane had sufficiently managed to intergrate her music into the club and every species there seemed to be enjoying the selection. Drinks flowed, laughter was shared, and memories were recalled; it was certainly a great night to be together.
"God, Garrus!" Jane shouted at him, "I don't think you have moved from that spot!" she punched him in the arm, "This is getting ridiculous. Even Wrex has moved!" She motioned at the krogan who was now over at a very drunk John and Tali.
"No need. I am very comfortable," he responded calmly. In reality, he just wasn't sure how to handle himself. The alcohol kept telling him one thing but his mind was still very much in control. Not to mention, he was still fuming from Jane and Kaidan scampering off to the dance floor, more than once too. Garrus wanted it to be him, but it would be inappropriate, awkward, and pointless.
The bartender came up suddenly and held out another tray of drinks, "Another round for the Commander and her crew," she said and motioned over to the group of humans (more than likely Alliance).
Jane picked up a drink and raised it to the men down the bar. Downing the shot, Jane placed the glass on the table and sighed, "Free drinks are always the best."
"And I know that you tend to get a lot of free drinks," Joker chuckled.
"Lord knows I put up quite a few," Kaidan added.
Garrus immediately felt his emotions rise again and he gripped the bar as he knocked back his shot. Spirits, I could smack that smug smile right off his face… Why the hell is Jane looking at me like that?
When his eyes met hers, Jane lingered for a bit, her mind wandering. Reality finally caught up to her and she had to quickly look away, only now realizing that she had been staring at him. If only I could get him alone or at least away from the group… but he is so damn stubborn! If only… A small part of her mind tried to poke at her, make her see where her mind was going and that she was only having these shameless thoughts because the alcohol was inhibiting her better decision making. At the moment, she didn't quite care and she finally was free of her worries that were linked to him.
"Oh my god!" Jane instantly changed moods and caused a few people around her to jump. "Soooo glad this song came on!"
She began to swing her hips, her body moving in perfect fluidity with the movement of the song. Garrus tried to remain a gentleman, but between her captivating dance and wanting to punch Alenko, it was becoming harder and harder to be the responsible party.
Kaidan slipped an arm around Jane as she continued to move, ignoring his advancement, "Well, come on then! We can head back out there."
Her eyes widened with excitement, but she ignored him. "My favorite part!" she yelled and without warning, hoisted herself up and onto the bar.
"Jane! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!" John demanded and came over to her. "Get down here! This instant!"
But Jane never heard her brother, she was too busy singing along and dancing to the music. When she noticed more and more people looking at her, she did what any drunk human would do: tried to get everyone as excited as she was. "Na na nana, na na na na! Heeeeeeyyy!" She repeated it with the song and by the third chant, people were joining in and the dancing had spread off the 'designated' area. Jane twisted, rocked and dipped to the flowing sound, the teachings in dance coming back to her. Even before the end of the chorus, other females (mostly asari) got up on the bar with herjjhuujj.
"Needless to say," Joker started, "This is getting a little awkward… But WAY too good to stop!"
"I think we should stop her," Kaidan said to John that came out as more of a yell. It had been loud to begin with, but with Jane sensually dancing with other females on the bar, the cat-calls almost drowned him out.
John nodded in response and they advanced on her, pulling her down from the bar. "Alright, sis. Time to go."
"No! Fuck you, John! And Kaidan, get your damn hands off me!" she shrugged his hand off her shoulder and disappeared into the crowd.
"I'll get her," Alenko offered but was stopped as Joker spoke up.
"Well, I could have told you both that wouldn't have worked and this sure as hell won't work either."
"Then what do you suggest?" Kaidan asked bitterly. He liked Joker as an individual, but it bothered him how close Joker was to Jane.
"You both just literally dragged her down. Send in a neutral party." Joker saw John begin to motion for Liara or Tali but they were both dancing off to the side. "Hey, Garrus, why don't you go?"
Three sets of human eyes and a krogan's turned on him. "Why me?"
"You and Jane are friends. And you are the tallest, easier to spot her in the crowd," Joker explained casually and sipped from his drink.
"You know, that isn't a bad idea. Please, Garrus?" John asked.
Looking between the two humans, his eyes fell on Kaidan who was obviously fuming and struggling not to refute the suggestions. "Alright, I'll see what I can do."
He began to weave his way through the throng of dancing bodies; he was already feeling awkward. He finally spotted Jane, lost in her dancing again. She looked so happy and carefree, something that he knew he would miss seeing over the next year. Just before he reached her, he noticed the guy trying to sidle in behind Jane to dance with her. It was inappropriate. Garrus grabbed the man by the back of the neck and jerked him back. "Beat it," he growled as he looked into the man's frightened eyes. Garrus may not be able to give the same treatment to the human he had in mind, but this would do for now.
Jane heard that familiar voice and spun around to see the back of a stranger practically running away from them. "Garrus?" When he looked down at her, he gave a weak grin.
"Shepard."
Rolling her eyes, she placed her hands on her hips, "How many times do I have to tell you to call me 'Jane'?"
"Heh. I guess it just seems more natural sometimes."
Beginning to sway to the music again, she smiled at the turian before her, "Finally accepting my request?" At his blank look, Jane sighed, "Dancing?"
"Sorry, Jane. I believe you are familiar with my opinion on dancing." It was strange, the frustrations he had been feeling earlier that evening all washed away while he was talking to her. Wishing that they spent more time together, her ridiculous behavior or even her going off with Kaidan, none of it mattered. "I just came out here to bring you back to the group."
"To get me to behave is more like it. I know your ploys," she chuckled.
He shook his head as she stumbled to the side. She wasn't quite as intimidating while drunk. He was about to refute her accusations, but it wouldn't be true. "They sent me."
"I figured as much," she shrugged, "We both know that you will not drag me back there. So, instead, I will agree to go back with you if," she placed a finger on his chest, "you dance with me." Jane saw that Garrus was already beginning to shake his head, "Guess I'll be out here for a while then…" she chuckled and turned, dancing away from him.
Several thoughts were going through his head in the moments as she turned away from him. Spirits! I can't believe I am going to do this. "Wait," he grabbed her elbow and tugged lightly. Jane spun around and stumbled forward, bumping into him. "I guess I could make an exception," he dipped his head closer to hers, "Just this once."
She was speechless. Was it just her imagination that he seemed flirty? "Really?"
He sighed, "I am willing to embarrass myself. Don't drag this out."
She laughed and did a quick turn beginning to dance, smiling up at him. Garrus took a quick survey of his surroundings, trying to pick up any indications how a male 'should' dance, but he was still lost. Jane was an amazing dancer and the way she moved was tantalizing but he still kept his distance. It wasn't long before the song ended, to Garrus's relief.
"Alright, time to go," he sighed.
"I don't think so!" she laughed. "That wasn't even half a song. One more. Then I agree to go."
"Fine, I won't argue with you."
"Because you know it is pointless."
"That is very true."
Jane started to pay attention to the song and realized how much she loved the song and how some of the lyrics might apply to her right now. For now, she decided to lose herself in the moment, again.
"I feel like I am dragging you down," Garrus grinned, "I did warn you."
She smiled up at him and his awkward dance shuffle. He was adorable, despite how dangerous he still looked. "Don't worry, big guy, there is nothing wrong with your dancing."
He shook his head at her as they continued to dance and he began to forget his manners and stole glances at her hips. The way she was able to move them didn't quite seem normal. Female turians definitely weren't able to move like that. When she began to sing along, he couldn't help but feel something he thought he probably shouldn't.
"But I know when the stars are aligned you can, Bump into a person in the middle of the road, Look into their eyes and you suddenly know," Jane sang, unable to stop herself. She undulated her body, and looked up at Garrus, her mouth continuing to sing, despite her mind warning her that it was coming off like she was singing exclusively to him. "Rocking in the dance hall moving with you, Dancing in the night in the middle of June, My momma told me don't lose you, 'Cause the best luck I had was you. I say hey, I'll be gone today, But I'll be back all around the way, It seems like everywhere I go, The more I see, the less I know. But I know, one thing, that I love you. I love you, I love you, I love you."
His mandibles fluttered in embarrassment, and the urge to repeat those words to her. She slipped her hand into his and spun herself, laughing at his befuddled expression. Even in her drunken stupor she was able to read him; she just knew him so well.
From across the room, Joker tapped John on the shoulder. Most of their group was pretty foggy (to say the least) and everyone was contemplating finishing out the night by going home soon; but the pilot had to point out this miracle. "Hey, check it out! Looks like Jane was able to get that stick out of his butt. Well, at least a little bit."
John followed his friend's gaze and was able to occasionally get a glimpse of his best friend dancing with his little sister, and both seemed happy. Was it just the alcohol? "Never underestimate her. I am partly convinced she is a witch with the magic she has. I swear, she can do or get someone to do anything."
"Nah, not witchcraft," Joker responded, "she is just a hot woman."
"Dude, that's my sister. Don't pull that."
Kaidan leaned on the bar. He had overheard their conversation and had noticed the pair dancing long before Joker had. The sooner Garrus left, the better.
As the song ended, Jane dropped her hands to her side and giggled up at Garrus. "Okay, so I see why you didn't want to dance."
"What did I tell you?" he laughed. "But, thank you for forcing me to try it."
"Anytime, big guy." Honestly, she didn't want to leave the dance floor yet, "A deal is a deal. I guess we should meet up with everyone."
"Yeah," he agreed reluctantly, "guess we should."
"Hey there, you two!" Tali shouted and stumbled over to Jane giving her a big hug, "I am having sooo much fun. I am so glad we did this."
Jane hugged her friend back, "Me too! It has been the best! Oh! Anyone want a drink?" she looked around at the group but no one had taken her up on the offer. Hopping over to the bar, she ordered anyway and handed one to Garrus, "For stealing yours earlier."
"Thanks."
Time seemed to blur together, but everyone was together, that is all that mattered. Jane couldn't imagine it another way and she loved them all. She only wished Ashley could be there.
"There is NO WAY you can completely give up the excitement of going into battle, Liara," Jane waggled her finger at her friend and leaned over the bar. "Trust me, you are going to miss it. You are going to come craaaawling back to join me again." Jane sipped from her countless drink that night.
"I won't miss my life being in danger!" Liara laughed, "I think I will like getting back to my work. There is still a lot to learn about the Protheans, especially with this information about the Reapers."
"Yes… enthralling," Joker rolled his eyes.
Jane smiled and teetered in her seat, "In any case, I fully expect all of us to get back together at some point. At the very least, maybe an anniversary thing."
"Hell, even I would enjoy that," Wrex rumbled.
They all raised their glasses, each of them agreeing without having to say a thing. "I love you, guys, you all know that, right?" Jane grinned after finishing her drink.
"Aaaand you are cut off," John took her glass and set it down.
"Let's go dancing again!" Tali exclaimed.
"Excellent idea!" Jane agreed. She moved to hop off the stool but her coordination was failing and her foot slipped. She did have a moment of panic as she fell but felt a set of arms wrap around her, saving her from hitting the ground. Looking up, she saw that she was in Garrus's arms. "Thank you," she muttered.
He brought her upright and set her on her feet, "Anytime." He dropped his hands from her but quickly put them back out as she wavered again. "You sure you can stand up?" he laughed.
"Maybe I should call it a night."
"It is late, or early, depending on how you look at it," Liara chuckled.
"Don't worry, I'll walk you back," John offered, getting up.
Tali dipped her head, "I guess we should all head back…"
Despite her state, Jane could see the disappointment in her friend's actions. "No, no. Stay, John. Tali wants to dance, you should go with her."
"But who will take you back?" John questioned her. He had no problem escorting his sister back, but he had also agreed to help Joker back, too, and of course he wouldn't leave Tali.
Kaidan opened his mouth to offer only to be beaten by the turian.
"I'll take her back," Garrus downed the rest of his drink and stood up. "Someone needs to have the reflexes to catch you."
Jane narrowed her eyes at him while crossing her arms. "And what makes you think there will be another time? I have had drunken nights before and I never needed an escort." She turned on her heel and began to walk away, only to bump into someone and begin to stumble to the side. A three-fingered hand grasped her elbow, holding her upright.
"No need to thank me," he grinned.
"Wasn't planning on it," she smirked. "I'll see you all later! Thanks for a great night!" They all shouted their own goodbyes and Jane began to stroll out of the club with a little more caution than before. As soon as the doors shut behind, effectively silencing most of the noise, Jane turned to Garrus, "Ready for a calm walk back?"
"I think we should take a rapid transport back."
"Why can't we just walk?"
"I would rather not have to catch you every minute."
"Don't act like you wouldn't be looking for the opportunity," Jane laughed, despite the fact that her sober mind didn't believe it. To her disappointment, Garrus only harrumphed. She rolled her eyes at him as the transit pulled up and they got in. After they began moving again, Jane slumped back in the seat and rolled her head to the side to look at Garrus. "So, what do you want to do when we get back?"
"You need to sleep. I will probably head back to my place."
"Oh, right. I forgot that you are renting an apartment now. Damn, that's weird to think about."
"Yeah, it will be odd not having the sounds of the Normandy to sleep by."
There is always one more night left… Jane thought. Getting out of the transport, they went into the elevator, almost back to the Normandy. "Will you be able to handle not being in battle? You know, bullets whistling by your head, gun hot in your hands, nailing a geth through the head with a well-placed shot… I doubt Citadel life will suit you."
"The Citadel actually has a nice simulator. That should hold me over."
"For a full year? I don't know, Garrus…" she chuckled, "but if you ever need to taste some real battle, you know how to reach me."
They were back on the Normandy and heading down the stairs. So far, they hadn't seen a soul, but it was pretty late. Arriving at her room, Jane typed in the code and once the door opened, stepped inside but paused, "You aren't joining me?"
"Jane, it is late."
"Oh, come ooooonnnn," she whined. She leaned against the doorway and began to pout, "I'm not tired and I can tell you aren't either. Hang out. Just a little longer. We can watch a movie. Your choice."
Garrus chuckled at her; she was still very drunk, but it was hard to say no. And, with her leaving the next day, why wouldn't he want to spend as much time as he could with her? "Alright, but if you fall asleep again, I get to hold that over you."
"Please! If either of us is going to fall asleep during a movie, it's you."
Ignoring her jab, Garrus said, "I would actually like to watch one of your movies. What's a good one?"
"Hmm…" Jane held the projector out to Garrus and he began to set it up like the last time he was there. She waivered in her stance as she scrolled through her omni-tool, looking for something that might be a good choice, "I think you might enjoy this one, though it may seem a little silly."
"Silly? How?" Garrus finished with the set up.
"It was made almost two hundred years ago, before humans were really able to do much in space exploration. When the movie was made, it was set in the future, a scenario." Jane selected the movie and as it began to play, she plopped down on the bed and handed the extra pillow to Garrus.
He gratefully accepted the extra support and took what was becoming his usual spot. "What's it called?"
"The Fifth Element." Before it had barely begun, Jane sat up abruptly, "Oh! I almost forgot. I have a treat for you. Parting gift as it were…" Getting up, she went over to a cabinet and pulled out turian brandy. "Congrats, again."
Garrus accepted the bottle reluctantly, "Jane, you really shouldn't have gotten me this. I will probably never drink it during training."
"Think of it as repayment for when I drank yours the last time we watched a movie together. We could always make it a tradition to have it during our movie nights."
"I don't think you should drink more. How much have you even had tonight?"
"Who are you? My brother? Don't be such a goody-goody," she held her hand out.
"Nope. I don't think so," Garrus laughed at her and held the bottle away.
"Don't make me kick your ass again," Jane warned. She kneeled on the edge of the bed and placed her hands on her hips. She knew that her current wardrobe was not fit to do any fighting, play or not; the jeans and corset were too tight and the corset wasn't allowing her too much movement in the way of contortion, or even twisting, but the alcohol made her forget all of it.
"I'm sorry… 'again'? When was the first time?" he teased. The comment only earned him a glaring look from Jane and she moved to try to tackle him. Her attack was incredibly slow and sloppy, so he simply grabbed her wrist and sat her back down. "Don't even try it." He could see the hazy look in her eyes, along with the playfulness behind them. Slowly, he began to release her.
Jane could feel herself get a little flushed,but she couldn't tell how long she had been feeling like that. She couldn't exactly see straight but she wasn't about to give up. Hopping up, she practically threw herself into him to push him over. Garrus flipped her onto her back and attempted to pin her arms but she wiggled out of the hold. His mandibles flared in a grin and he shook his head at her as she lunged at him again. Grabbing her upper arms, he sat her back down.
"Jane, you aren't in the state to be fighting, real or not."
"Maybe you're right…" Jane sighed. I shouldn't do it. I shouldn't do it. But damn… I have to know.
Garrus tilted his head to the side, she wouldn't meet his eyes. "Jane? What's wrong?"
She shook her head, her eyes still lowered, "No, it's nothing," she whispered.
"You know you can tell me."
"I know… but I guess I would… rather…"
"Rather, wha – " his words were cut off when Jane leaned forward and pressed her lips against his mouth.
The songs that are referenced: 1. "Can't Hold Us" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis (about 3 minutes into the song) 2. "Say Hey (I Love You)" by Michael Franti & Spearhead
And before I get some reviews asking why I didn't mess up Jane's (or anyone's) speech to indicate that they are drunk, I just feel like it distracts from the story. Also, everyone is different when they are drunk, so I figured I would leave it a little more open.