“Is that everything?” A dark skinned woman who was exactly the same height as Pilar asked as her eyes casually looked around the room for any bags or items she could grab. Pilar nodded at Ensign Jackson, who had volunteered to help her move her personal items from the Counselor’s quarters to the Executive Officer’s suite, as she walked over to her old desk lifted the last duffle bag off it. “Yes that is everything. This is all that’s left”, she said as she patted the duffle on her shoulder.
“Oh, okay.” said Ensign Jackson, “I guess I will be heading back to my quarters so I can get some sleep before my next shift then.”
Pilar gave the woman a warm smile as they both exited her old quarters together and headed to the turbo-lift.
“Much gratitude, Lena. A non replicated lunch is on me. Just name the day and time.”
The Ensign shook her head, “No you don’t have to do that. I am happy to help. You helped me resolve a personal problem, so really this is my way of showing you gratitude.”
Pilar laughed and said, “I do not want this to be a swapping of favors, Lena. I insist on repaying you for your time and work. Also it will be an opportunity for me to catch up with you before I become fully immersed in my new role. We can talk about your progress. How does that sound?”
Lena presented a big smile and nodded, “Yes, Commander Halcyone, ” Pilar gave her a quick disapproving look which caused Lena to adjust her words, “Um…sorry…I forgot you prefer Pilar above all other titles in informal situations,” A smile reappeared on Pilar’s as she continued listening, “Pilar, that sounds good. I have some really positive updates to share with you too. Let me check my shift schedule and then I send you a date as well as a time.”
“I am looking forward to it,” Pilar said as she put her one arm around the woman and gave her a loving hug, like what a mother would give child before they got in they stepped into the turbo-lift.

Halcyone, XO