Posted by Lieutenant Junior Grade Rand Farquharson (Yeoman First Class) in What If…

Posted by Commander Roman Alden (First Officer & Chief Science Officer) in What If…

Posted by Lieutenant Junior Grade Rand Farquharson (Yeoman First Class) in What If…
Posted by… suppressed (60) by the Post Ghost! 👻
Miranda Farquharson sat at the vanity in her dressing room, applying the outrageous makeup required for the stage. Up close it was garish and comical, but it was necessary to give the appearance needed for those in the audience to get the effect. After the final curtain and before she appeared at the after party, Miranda would wash and reapply to something appropriate. Today she had a coffee and cream colored wig, instead of her own red hair. She was playing the the part of Guinevere in the play King Arthur. Told from ancient records from the Roman Empire. The term in the play was Woad for the people she was representing. The makeup artist was applying cuts and contusions to her and tapping her fingers into place. The first scene she was to appear in, was in a small hole dug into a cave with iron bars, where is was malnutritioned, dehydrated, and had been tortured. Looking at the fake bruises and lacerations, the dark circles under her eyes and the amount of powder and paste to make her look dried out oppressive.

When it was time, the stage crew helped her climb into the small alcove of her prison and closed the bars over it. It was a difficult part to play, but Miranda loved it. In this iteration of the famous tale Guinevere was strong and independent and fierce. Even more so because of the cruelty and torment she endured.

Miranda, Leading Lady

Jay had talked him into this. Roman hadn’t wanted to go. Well, Roman hadn’t even wanted a vacation. The two men sat in the front row of the audience, Roman’s arms crossed, wearing that signature pout of his.

Jay, meanwhile, looked happy and excited, and kept tapping Roman’s arm and pointing to things. Roman would nod and smile politely, and then promptly begin pouting playfully once more. Both men were dressed to the nines, hair done up, wearing their nicest. “C’mon, Roman, life can’t be all work.” Jay said, elbowing him again. “Look at the curtain! All the design on it is lovely, isn’t it?”

Roman huffed and nodded. “Sure it is, but I’d still rather our lab than this. We’ve got things to do and not enough time to do them.” Complained the darker haired gentleman.

“Oh relax. We’ve done everything required of us, and you know things’ll be fine while we’re gone. Just enjoy the show!” Urged the red haired one, grinning and waving towards the stage. “Oh! Oh! I think it’s starting. Shhhh!”

Both turned their eyes towards the stage, remaining politely quiet as the curtain opened.

Roman Alden, on vacation | Jason Caliano, on vacation

It had been three years since Miranda’s debut on her 18th birthday. It had been a struggle and precarious. She had switched troupes after though. She had been lucky that Randy had decided to accompany her. The director had been after bigger prizes with Miranda being his crowning jewel and he was willing to gain more at her expense. It could have been disastrous for her.

This production was in an outdoor amphitheater, which meant the battle scenes were much bigger and they had horses and wagons and things were much more authentic. The play began and went through three scenes before Arthur and his knights arrived at the home of a Roman family that they were evacuating north of Hadrian’s Wall. It was there they found a door, stoned up and sealed up. Breaking the door down, inside they found a dismal damp and dark dungeon. A priest begged them to leave the people alone. He was going to stay with them and save their souls before they died. Bodies, emaciated and dead, were found forced into small inhuman alcoves. A small boy was found alive in a pit and a woman, Guinevere played by Miranda, in a small bared hole. She stares back at Arthur, looking distrustful and wary. Battered, bruised, injured, and unable to walk.

They were lifted and carried out to a wagon. Arthur gives the Roman patriarch the ultimatum to go willingly or be arrested. They leave to escape the the army of Saxons invading the British soil.

Miranda, Leading Lady

The two men watched the show. Roman had read the play before, he seemed a little disinterested… Until the part where the men found Guinevere. The actress was beautiful, and though she had spoken no lines yet, she seemed good at what she did. As he watched, his eye mostly on Miranda, Jay nudged him and whispered in his ear, “So you do have a sense of women after all, do you? She looks nice, I’ll give you that, but I wonder what she’s like for real?”

Roman elbowed him in the ribs and shot him a playful glare. “Quiet, I’m watching.” They were quiet again, out of respect for audience members around them.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Guinevere sat quietly in the wagon, which was opened faced on the side toward the audience so they could see. She was quiet, but it allowed Rand to watch the audience. There were two younger men, dashingly dressed, making quiet comments to each other. That was not unusual and their faces didn’t display displeasure. For some reason though, it made her want to blush.

The next time they got to see Guinevere, Arthur climbed into the wagon and made his way toward her. She forced herself to sit up and back as far away as possible. His purpose was to check on her. He was incredibly kind and gentle as he unwrapped her hand and the audience got their first look at the disjointed and swollen appendage. “They tortured me. With machines. To make me tell them things that… that I didn’t know to begin with,” the woman explained by way of explanation. Her voice was pure and carried across the audience without help technology. The ache and torment clear in the sound, creating fear and anger within the audience.

Arthur warned her it would hurt as he reset the joints. Her body stiffened, but she didn’t cry out. Arthur rebandages her hand and leaves.

Later he returns, “How’s your hand?” She smiled at him with irony, “I’ll live, I promise you.” There are many scenes back and forth between Guinevere and Arthur and even Lancelot. She is proud and curious, but courageous. The audience sees this when the convoy is stopped across a frozen lake by the appearance of the Saxon army. Tristan, a knight and the best archers, tests the distance, but his arrow falls short. Unseen behind Arthur and his men, Guinevere leaves the wagon, takes up a bow and arrow. An arrow streaks up and past the knights coming down to land in the chest of one of the Saxons. Arthur turns to see Guinevere walk up, knocking another arrow. Here the Arthur and the audience see that Guinevere is not a tortured woman, but a warrior as well.

Equally impressive, the shot was not made with tricks and props, but the actress had actually made the shot herself.

Yeoman Rand

The two men sat in the front row of the audience, transfixed by the scene. “She is talented,” Jay whispered. “Of course she is. Look at the program.” Roman replied, opened the little booklet and pointing to the small paragraph biography of Miranda Farquharson. It listed some of her other performances and things about her career. “Now hush and watch.” Roman whispered, nodding towards the stage. “You can gawk later.”

Jay grinned, “Last I looked, I’m not the gawker today, Romeo.” He whispered back, giving Roman another look. Roman scowled playfully and shook his head.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

The play continued, and Rand was aware of the attention she had drawn from the two young men in the front row. She was familiar with attention from fans, bit she was never co portable with it. She spent intermission alone in her dressing room, talking to her brother because she felt extremely anxious for some reason. She was professional though and went right back out on stage. She was moving and captivating, bringing a real life and soul to the character of Guinevere. She was witty and kind, feminine and brave. The play had a lot of action with one subdued love scene. The final battle ranged all over and Rand was dressed in armor of wide leather straps (that were not historically accurate unfortunately) and blue body paint. She led a charge across the field, fencing and fighting with the rest. Taking hits, falls, and attacks with the rest. The whole audience gasped, holding their breath as she went down to the antagonist and then cheered as she fought her way back up.

The fi AL scene, of course, was the wedding between Authur and Guinevere. The dress was beauitful, flowing, long accented in gold and true to the time period. Uniting Britain under a new king, having expelled the Roman’s and the Saxons. As Author raised his sword, Guinevere claspsed her hand around his, showing a unity of leadership unusual for the Arthurian Legend. The curtain closed, then opened with all the performers and crew coming out to take their bow.

Miranda, Leading Lady

It was a fantastic performance. The audience stood and clapped as the crew took their bows. Roman and Jay included. Roman had his eyes on her the whole time, but each time she looked his way, he glanced away modestly. Then the audience began to file out.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Jay wasn’t the only one who noticed Roman’s interest. As the actors and actresses left the stage, Lori, her understudy, hurried up to her. “He’s so dashing Miranda! Who is he?”

“Who is who?” Rand asked heading for the lobby. The troupe always met the audience in the lobby.

“The two men up front. The dark haired one can’t keep his eyes off you. You should introduce yourself.” Rand shook her head. “If they want to meet me they will be able too. They probably just want an autograph in their play bill.

They all made their way into the lobby, still in costume, and greeted their audience.

Miranda, Leading Lady

As they were greeting the audience, Roman hurried past. Jay grabbed his arm and stopped him. “Where d’you think you’re going? Say hello! You only stared at her all night. Aught to do the polite thing.” Jay said, grinning and pushing him towards Rand and her understudy.

“She was on stage , Jay. She’s used to being looked at. Besides, I wasn’t staring- oof!” He grunted as he was accidentally pushed by another member of the audience, rushing out to get ahead of the crowd. He ended up right in front of Rand. “Oh, erm… hello.” He said. In the background Jay was grinning, trying not to chuckle. Roman was usually quite confident… Except with dating prospects.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Miranda was greeting people, and mostly she stayed in character. People loved it and it was one of the things that made her so popular. Lori saw the two young men approaching and she nudged Rand. Rand looked over at her quizzically but was only met with a grin. Rand turned back only to be very close to the much more handsome of the two young men from the front row, and mesmerized by the most stunning blue eyes she had ever seen. For the first time ever in her career, Miranda Farquharson forgot herself. “H… hello.” Her voice, her natural voice, had a strong Scottish lilt, and she was blushing.

Miranda, Leading Lady

Roman smiled a little at her accent. Naturally Scottish, but the English one she used was good. Indistinguishably good. “I’m sorry, I was pushed, I didn’t mean to-” he stepped back a little as he stumbled over his words in a way that was most unlike him. Causing Jay to giggle like a little schoolgirl behind him. He shot Jay a glare. “Anyway, err, you are- it was… very good. The play, I mean. Your acting. Excellent, really.” His eyes were full of life, playful and lively, expressing the nervousness he felt speaking to someone so beautiful. Not for work but for personal reasons. If this were work, in his lab, he’d be fine.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Rand didn’t say anything until she was nudged by a sharp elbow in her back. She blinked in an effort to stop the spell she seemed to under. “Oh,” she moistened her lower lip, “Tapadh leat.” The sound of Lori giggling made her realize what she had done. Shyness and nervousness flashed across her eyes and flushed her cheeks. “I mean, Thank you. Uh,” it sounded like she was thanking him for bumping into her and she turned redder, “It’s alright, it’s crowded.” Her lilt seemed to get stronger the more flustered she was. She glanced down finally and when she looked up again she seemed more composed. Randy had walked her through this many times. She knew how tobtalk to people from the audience. “I haven’t seen you before. We love to hear people enjoy our art. Will you come again?”

Miranda

Roman cracked a little smile as her accent got stronger. He did that to most people he talked to, so long as they were interested that is. He took a deep breath himself and smiled his usual confident, charming smile. Jay was practically quietly cheering behind him. “I hope so. I mean, I’d love to but- well, I’m Starfleet.” He cleared his throat and straightened, holding out a hand. “Lieutenant Commander Alden, of the USS Ardent. That- my friend over there- he’s Lieutenant Jason Caliano. My… ugh, my friend.” The redhead was waving like crazy in an intentionally goofy manner. Then pointed to Roman and mouthed ‘ask him out!’

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Rand smiled at him and took his hand with a firm grasp that quickly faltered as she simply held his hand and the color returned quickly to her cheeks. Her hand was still in his as she politely shifted her gaze to his friend. “Nice to meet you bo…” Her voice trailed off as her eyes went wide. Her hand trembled noticeably in his. Her hand slipped from his and she clasped them in front of her to hide the nerves. This had happened before, it was fine. Randy had coached her on this as well. Her gaze returned to… he said his name was Roman Alden. But she didn’t quite meet his gaze, and her breath seemed harsher. Almost too rapid.

Change the subject and focus on the person in front of her. “Star Fleet seems very exciting. The Ardent docked just a few days ago.” She smiled gently, “Returning ship’s are always such a big deal to us little people.” Rand had many fans in the service. They talked often of their ships and family. “Oh… Caliano? Henry and Maryann Caliano?” They had mentioned two sons returning when they attended a play last week. Oh dear… they hadn’t tried to set her up had they? The prospect was suddenly overwhelming and her vision tunneled slightly.

Miranda

Roman looked very surprised and nodded. “Yes, they’re his parents. You know them?”

“Yes, they come to our shows regularly. They are a wonderful couple. Mr. Caliano has such stories to tell, and Mrs. Caliano is just lovely. I always look forward to their attendance.” Oh dear what was going on here?

“Fantastic. I’m glad their attendance is appreciated.” Then he paused and glanced at Rand. “Stories… About his time in Starfleet, I hope.” He said and smiled.

Rand missed the social cue. They were wondering if they talked about their sons. They had, but Rand was far too embarrassed to mention anything so personal. “Oh yes. He makes me want to see the stars. It sounds very exciting.”

Lori wasn’t just her understudy but also a very good friend. She realized at once what was happening. She caught the director’s eye with a speaking glance.

He watched her carefully, used to watching his crew. He was first aid trained, in case of lab accidents. “Are- are you okay? You’re breathing pretty fast.” He set his own hands politely behind himself. Jay stepped forward too, calmer, and looked at her. He looked concerned, too. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to embarrass you. Oh, jeeze. Sorry. I didn’t mean anything by it. Really, honest.”

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Her eyes were saucers and she seemed frozen. They couldn’t see, they simply could not. They were so polite. Oh why, why had she forgotten her part?

“Guinevere!” The director walked up, and the utterance brought Rand some clarity. “King Arthur and his knights wish to toast their fealty to you.” He turned to the two men. “Please join us in the celebration. Our fearless Lady will no doubt wish to continue your discussion, but we need her presence for a moment. Lori, bring them a drink.” He led a relieved Rand away. She turned her head to peek over her shoulder at Roman and his amazing eyes.

Then she was being ushered forward. Her posture and expression changed and she reached both hands toward Arthur and fell into her role as they toasted and celebrated.

Lori smiled warmly at Jay. “Come, let’s get a drink. These after show performances are really fun. Please stay.” She waived at a server who brought over a tray of drinks. She had never seen Rand react to anyone that way.

Miranda

“Of course, milady,” Jay said happily, smiling at Lori. Then his look turned more concerned, quite a similar look to Roman’s own. “She will be okay, won’t she?” He asked.

Lori slipped her hand onto his arm and nodded, “Of course. Some times after a long performance the press and heat of people can get to them.” It was the lie they were told to give. This troupe was very protective of Miranda and wouldn’t give the media reason to harass her more than normal.

“I’m glad.” Jay said, taking her arm happily.

Roman followed them quietly, stealing one more glance at Rand. The poor young woman. He’d never seen anyone freeze like that. He hoped she was okay. Maybe he’d let her be. Jay had pushed them together, she must not have been comfortable.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

The problem was, her gaze kept finding those blue eyes around the room. It was magnetic. Rand never broke character again, but David, aka Arthur, noticed. He was very much like a big brother and decided to do something about it. He managed to speak quietly to Lori and then began to lead Guinevere around the room introducing her to several people. They stopped before the two young men. “My dearest lady,” he lifted her hand and kissed the back of it, “May I present the last of my noble knights. Sir Roman Alden and Sir James Caliano of the Ardent.” Guievere curtsied with such grace it was to be believed she really was a queen. “It is my honor to meet such fine men such as yourselves.”

“Ma’am.” Roman greeted politely, the greeting coming from his time in Starfleet. “I mean, your majesty.” He smiled at Rand, still pretending to be Guievere. “It is my pleasure to meet such a distinguished and fine young lady.”

Rand thought she might catch on fire she felt so hot. Almost, almost she broke historical period and offered her hand to his with a curtsey. She caught herself though and could only stare at him. David and Lori couldn’t help but smile.

“And mine,” Jay added, “I hope you’ll forgive my earlier behavior.” He said. He elbowed Roman discreetly and Roman looked at him and shook his head.

‘Guinevere’ gave him a curious look and succeeded in not sounding flustered or hopeful, but her hands gave her away if one was to pay attention. “There is nothing to forgive. Today is a day of celebration. We should all enjoy it.” Her gaze flicked to Alden and then shyly away. She couldn’t believe she was being so forward.

Roman caught her looking and smiled slightly, but then she looked away. He glanced at Jay and then focused elsewhere.

Lori leaned in and whispered to Jay, “We always do something for those that serve.” She sounded excited.

Jay nodded and smiled politely. Both Jay and Roman looked a little uncomfortable with the attention on their service. It was their job, nothing to have so much attention over.

Rand turned and took a drink off a tray, “Come! Come our guests! We are fine company tonight. We have many great and noble knights with us. We shall toast to their bravery!” Servers swarmed the area, and then one by one Guievere announced the name and service of each officer. Whether Star Fleet or Earth Defense Force, Human or not. She remembered every name and position. She said them all with perfect pronunciation. “And finally we have Lt Cmdr Roman Alden and Lt Jason Caliano of the USS Ardent.” She raised her glass high, “Let us toast to their bravery, wisdom, and continued success!”

There were loud cheers and everyone raised their glasses in toast. Rand was absolutely flushed. She pretended to drink, but did not imbibe the alcohol.

Miranda

Roman and Jay both abstained from drink as well, taking a drink to be polite, but not drinking any. Roman glanced at Rand again, and then swept his gaze over the rest of the people present. But he couldn’t stop meeting her gaze.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Rand had to make herself pay attention to the other guests, but she kept drifting closer to where they were, and then getting too nervous. Lori was exasperated and muttered quietly to Jay, “She’s so shy.”

Miranda

“He won’t ask her.” Jay whispered back to Lori, shaking his head.

Each time she drifted closer, Roman would look up with interest, but then go back to what he’d been doing when she moved away. He didn’t say anything unless she did. She must get so much unwanted attention, he would not add to it. And he couldn’t tell whether it was wanted or not.

Cmdr. Roman Alden
First Officer & Chief Science Officer

Rand did get attention. She was getting it tonight. She hated it. It was very obvious if he was watching her, that she moved quickly away after a polite exchange. She never lingered and there was a odd shift to her posture when some more adamant admires tried to follow. Those times she seemed to come closer, as if seeking refuge. But she would always lose her nerve. David would appear at her side at those times, giving her a buffer against the attention. He would lead her to a less crowded area, or older patrons. And each time she would glance back at Roman. She caught him watching her most of the evening, but he never came and spoke to her again. Rand was feeling dejected and very stupid and even more embarrassed. She thought perhaps he had wanted to talk to her, but she had misunderstood.

Roman watched her carefully. Once, he almost said something, but he lost his own nerve. He was fairly sure, but not quite certain.

Lori sighed and then saw the director speak to Rand and she nodded and disappeared. The rest of the cast swarmed into her place keeping people engaged. Lori squeezed Jay’s arm. “Oh, perfect. Miranda always gives a sneak peak of what her next part is. The person who guesses gets free tickets. Maybe I can make the pot sweeter.” She dashed away and spoke to David who laughed and nodded. Who then spoke to the director who seemed uncertain.

Jay grinned. “Now just what are you thinking, my sweet lady?”

Lori chuckled. She explained the plan and even gave Jay the answers to feed to his friend so he could win a date with Rand.

Miranda returned in an off white dress with bell sleeves and an empire waist. The brown wig was braided and twisted into a crown on her head and threaded with small flowers. She had very little makeup and she walked with a proud and intelligent gaze. She danced through the crowd and was passed from dance partner to dance partner as if at a ball. She paused and came to a stop. She paused and waited, but she found those blue eyes again.

“Now, Ladies and Gentlemen, Ms Farquharson will give you one line from her next part. If you can guess you will get free tickets to the premier of her next show on Friday.”

In a very perfect British accent she spoke, “Of a fine stout love, it may. But if it is only a vague inclination I’m convinced one poor sonnet will kill it stone dead.”

Miranda

Roman knew the line. He’d read Pride and Prejudice, and he had a good memory. He found himself wanting to impress her despite being unsure if they’d still be here on the show day. “Then what do you recommend to encourage affection?” His accent was on point, perfect and posh, his voice rich and full. He knew how to speak, he’d been taught, though he never did do any acting. He looked at Rand almost expectantly, waiting to see what the actress would say.

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

Rand fought not to bite her lip. She began to speak and the director chuckled and interrupted. “Ah well, Sir, you have jumped the gun. Before the lady can answer you must tell us who she is.” Rand could barely breathe. She had no idea what was coming next. “Now usually the contest is tickets for the identity, but we have an extra prize today. If the person can identify the character and give the next line you get tickets, but also dinner with Ms Farquharson.” Rand thought she might die, but it didn’t show. She just watched the young Star Fleet officer, holding her breath.

Miranda

Jay hadn’t even had to tip him off, Roman had jumped the gun all on his own, and he looked quite embarrassed about it. “I apologize. I… I’m familiar with the book. It’s Elizabeth, from Pride and Prejudice.” He looked, quite embarrassedly, around the room. Then he cleared his throat again, “Errr. Sorry.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

Everyone smiled and waited. Rand met his gaze and smiled reassuringly, “Dancing. Even if one’s partner is barely tolerable.” Elizabeth gave her impromptu Mr. Darcy a coy smile.

The gathered cast clapped enthusiastically and the crowd joined in. “Well done young man,” the director applauded and walked over with an envelope with his tickets. Rand wanted desperately to disappear. She thought she couldn’t breathe. She had no idea what this dinner thing was about. They had never done that before. But she hoped the man would talk to her again, but she would probably stutter horribly in her embarrassment.

Yeoman Rand

Roman accepted the envelope, and then promptly handed it to Jay. He stood, steeling his resolve and looked at Rand, holding out his hand. “May I have the next dance, Miss Elizabeth?”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

Rand stood transfixed and baffled, but a soft flush graced her cheeks. She set her hand in his, “You may.” His hand was pleasantly warm, and she only just realized how cold her nerves were making her. She wished she had the nerve to invite him to use her real name, but only Elizabeth Bennet’s sass kept her from running in embarrassment.

Roman smiled warmly and took her hand, closing his gently around it. He came closer to her, he smelled of expensive, but not overly so, cologne and up close his outfit was perfect, not a speck of dust or lint to be seen. “If you’re interested, I would love a more… private meeting, between the two of us.” He murmured to her.

His proximity had an effect on her. She was noticeable flustered and flattered by his attention (something she had not been with the other attention she had recieved), but she was also nervous. Her features didn’t give it away, but there was a slight tremor in her hand that did. Something she quickly tried to hide once she was aware of it. Private? Rand was horribly awkward and embarrassing the few times she tried to date. She would make such a mess of things.

Roman noticed. He wished he could help. He didn’t know how. He settled on simply smiling at her.

His cologne was very nice and up close he was devastating. His aura was subtle and steady. She didn’t feel like a trophy when he looked at her like she did with other people. She didn’t know how to answer though. Was he simply being polite because he won or was he after a bigger prize or could he possibly be interested in her? In her nervousness it slipped out, quiet and soft, “I… I’d like that very much.” Then she flushed brightly, her gaze dropping shyly.

Relief and happiness etched into his own features. There was a calmness about him, a cool confidence that settled back into him. “It will be a lovely time. Here’s my comm signature.” He said, giving it to her. “I’ll tell you when or where.”

Oh, oh! She wasn’t going to have to make a decision or make a suggestion. She wasn’t going to have to figure out how and when to contact him. She seemed to relax. She murmured a soft thank you. Then after an awkward pause she fumbled about, but she didn’t have anything to write with. She asked one of the servers and they brought her something.

Her cheeks all the way to the tips of her ears turned even redder when she had to let go of his hand to write. She offered it to him quietly, wondering if this was what she was supposed to do? “My comm signature.” She did glance up at him again, finally, trying very hard to not show how flustered she was.

Roman took it and smiled again. “Thank you. We’ll be in contact.” He gave her a look, “I look forward to it, truly.”

That look seemed to still the breath in her lungs and gave her butterflies. “I do as well.” Then suddenly, before he could walk away, she blurted out, “Miranda. My name, I mean. You know that though, it’s in the play bill. People call me Rand though.” She was rambling and started to wring her hands, so she clasped them behind her back and stopped talking.

Roman smiled. “Miranda. Beautiful name, that is. I hope I am not keeping you. I’d hate to be a bother.”

“Oh no, you aren’t. We don’thave another performance tomorrow.” Her feelings fell though, perhaps she was keeping him. “Am I keeping you?” She glanced around. Lori was gone. “Your friend seems to have disappeared.”

Roman shrugged. “We’re staying with his parents. We can find each other later. I’m sure he found himself a date of his own.” He shook his head, “Not at all. I’ve nowhere to be. Jay would rather me do this anyway, knowing him.”

---

Lori nudged Jay and looked up at him. “Well Lt. Caliano, now that we have played match maker for our friends, perhaps we could be selfish and worry about ourselves?”

Miranda

Jay grinned and nodded. “I would love to play matchmaker for myself instead of my relationship-ally challenged friend.” His accent was the same as Roman’s, if a tad more casual. “I’m Jay.” He said. “I don’t think I caught your name before?”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

The naturally sandy haired woman smiled at him. “I’m Laurel Drusus. My friends call me Lori.” Lori spared a thought for Rand, but there were plenty of people around if she needed them, and Lori very much wanted to spend some time getting to know this outrageous officer.

Miranda

Jay poked her playfully and smiled. “Okay, Lori, how do you feel about a date? A nice date, with pretty old me?” He asked. He was much smoother with dating than Roman. He was naturally outgoing, more of a people person.

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

Lori grinned, a happy flush on her cheeks, and her eyes danced. “I feel very positive over such an offer. It must be soon though. We travel,” she indicated the troupe, “and so do you.”

Miranda

Jay nodded. “That we do, that we do. Tomorrow, then. No time to waste, right?” He said and smiled a big smile. “At… 1900. Wherever around here you like best.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

“We’re staying at the Midland Hotel, here in Manchester. I’m in room 312. ‘ll leave your name at the desk.” The gathering was winding down and there was still a lot of work to be done before they were through for the night. She squeezed his hand, “Unfortunately, work is not done. Don’t be late, Jay.” She winked at him and slipped away.

Miranda and Lori

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” Jay said and grinned one more time. “See you later.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO | Jay

“Good.” The chronometer chimed 2 a.m. “I’ll see you later today.” Lori was reluctant to go and glanced back a few times, but the longer she tarried the layer they would be.

Miranda and Lori

Jay glanced back too, but moved on. He’d see her again soon. He’d call Roman a bit later, he didn’t want to interrupt what seemed to be going on between Roman and that actress.

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO | Jay

---

Oh, he was doing this to appease his friend. Of course. That made sense. Perhaps he was just competitive and had a natural need to to win any challenge put in front of him. Rand smiled though. He was a calm presence and though she was nervous he didn’t make her anxious. It was a pleasant surprise. “I hope the director didn’t put you on the spot.”

Miranda

“Not at all.” He didn’t care what Jay wanted, really. He’d gone many years telling Jay to leave him alone about not dating all that much. He was married to his labs, after all. “I’m quite familiar with the story. Can’t go through school without reading that one. It was good though, I liked it.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

“You were lucky then. Such literature isn’t taught as frequently in this century. It is considered outdated.” She smiled genuinely, “It is one of my favorites though. Some themes and lessons surpass the passage of time. Do you have a favorite piece of literature, Lt Cmdr?”

Miranda

“It was… an outdated school,” Roman said. He thought and then said, “It depends. For fun, the Davinci Code, for depth of reading, one of my favorites is Juliet Caesar, Shakespeare’s play.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

“Classical then. Mine was as well.” Her head tipped slightly and picked a quote, “And since you know you cannot see yourself, so well as by reflection, I, your glass, will modestly discover to yourself, that of yourself which you yet know not of. I like that particular line.”

Miranda

“It’s a fine line, a good choice,” Roman said with a nod. “I can’t pick out a favorite quote right now… It’s been a good while since I’ve sat down and had a read. I’ll have to make time.” He smiled, “I’m a science officer, that’s what I do in Starfleet. Me and Jay both. We’re usually quite busy.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

She flushed, she supposed her life probably seemed lazy and indulgent to him. Woth very little purpose or benefit. “Constant study is a large part of what I do.” He had her full attention, “What type of science do you study?”

Miranda

“I noticed. Your arrow work was impressive,” he complimented. Then Roman grinned and spoke excitedly, “Biology and xenozoology. We run a joint project studying a planet called Kelmao. Previously we did a great deal of study into another world, Aldaria.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

“Animals! I love animals. Have you actually seen them or just recordings?” Her posture was more animated. “I don’t think I could study them. I would want to bring them all home.”

Miranda

“We have a lab full of them.” Roman replied, his smile widening. “They have custom enclosures and we feed and take care of them and study their behavior and secretions. Perhaps I can show you some of our recordings. Jay and I do video diaries detailing all our work.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

For a moment she thought he was going to offer to take her to his ship, she was more relieved by the actual offer. “I would like that! No temptation to pet or feed them. I really am a hopeless cause. The only alien animal I’ve seen is a Pyrithian bat. I was always bringing animals home as a child.”

Miranda

Roman chuckled lightly. “Some of my animals you would not want to take home unless you live at a fully equipped hospital.” He said. “Some are safe enough, some are quite dangerous.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

He was even more attractive when he looked amused. “Oh, well I learned my lesson when I was a wee one. Took a bunch if baby snakes home that I thought were worms. Gave Seanair a fit.” She laughed ruefully. “I was very very young.”

Miranda

Roman laughed too. “Most snakes are safe, at least. Not venomous.” He wasn’t much the outgoing type, he didn’t seem completely comfortable just standing there conversing. But he didn’t want to go either. “My creatures are alien. Bioluminescent or… Well,” he smiled. “You’ll see.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

“I look forward to it,” she really did. She wasn’t overly comfortable just standing and talking either. Their conversation paused a handful of times as people stopped to compliment her performance or ask for a photo or autograph. She spoke to each person, giving them her full attention and conversing with them. She was kind and sweet and genuine.

“How long are you here for?”

Yeoman Rand

“It depends. I’m also the Ardent’s new first officer, so I may get called back early. But we’re planning on a week.” Roman said. He smiled slightly at her and sighed. “I wish we had more time than that, I’m sorry.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

Miranda gave him a curious look. “Whatever for? Did you lie and not like the performance?” It absolutely did not occur to her that he might mean her. “You seem to enjoy what you do. I would be eager to return to something so exciting.”

Miranda

Roman blinked as if confused. “I loved the performance. I want more time… for you.” He said, looking at her. “I dunno, I do love what I do. I just… I like you.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

“Oh!” Miranda looked as surprised as she felt. The permanent flush on her cheeks gave proof that the surprise was genuine and welcome. “Thank you. I,” she was supposed to say something but she wasn’t sure what. She did like him, or at the very least she liked him so far, but would that be too forward to say so? Rand didn’t know, “like you, as well. I am enjoying our talk.” Oh she sounded so naive. Why couldn’t she sound as sophisticated as the women she portrayed?

A woman cleared her throat and walked over. “I’m sorry to interupt…”

Rand smiled at her, “What is it Colleen?”

“We need Elizabeth’s dress. I need to pack it for shipment to the theatre, for Friday,” Colleen explained. Rand looked down at the dress. “Oh dear. I had forgotten I was wearing it. I’m so sorry, Colleen. I will come change right away.” Rand gave Roman another shy glance, “I’m sorry, I need to… will you excuse me a few minutes?” He might not wish to stay it was very late.

Miranda

“Of course.” He said politely and took a seat. “By all means, do what you need to do. It is I who took your attention away, after all.”

~ Roman

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

Colleen thought Rand would gladly let that man take anything away he wanted, just so she could be next to him. The whole backstage was abuzz about it, but when Rand headed toward her dressing room, the talk stopped. Rand was like everyone’s little sister. No one wanted to embarrass her. In fact, they were happy to see her find interest in someone. The man, was at least, very polite.

Rand was quite tidy, she kept all her personal things in one trunk so there was nothing extra to be packed. Colleen helped her out if the dress and wig. Rand brushed out her hair, pulled on a soft knit calf length teal sweater dress and tall boots. She usually wore something much plainer late after the shows. It helped to blend in, but she wanted to look nice for him. She didn’tknow why. She tossed her things in the trunk and locked it. The moving crew would get everything tomorrow. She took her hat and coat from a hook along with her bag and headed for the lobby. She wondered if he had stayed or if he left. She wondered what he would think of her outside of her character. The reality, she knew, didn’t stand up to the magic.

Miranda

When Roman saw her again he stood and smiled at her. She was even more alluring sans the make up and with what must be her natural hair. “Miranda. You look lovely.” He said, greeting her as he walked up to her.

~ Roman

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

“Th..thank you.” Her smile brightened her face all the way to her eyes. He waited. The way he said her name sent warm shivers down her back. She took a step closer to him as he stopped next to her. “Ummm…”

“Miss Farquharson, I’m ready when you are.” An Andorian man had walked up, he was dressed in a crisp suite and obviously was wearing a weapon under his jacket. Rand stepped away slightly and the man smiled gently at her. “I know you hate it, but your brother would have my antenna if I didn’t.”

Miranda nodded, “I know, Bys. I appreciate everything you do. Ummm…” she glanced at Roman and back, “I’m not ready to go yet. Is that all right?” The man grinned, “It’s perfectly fine. I’m at your disposal. Enjoy your evening.” And he melted back into the shadows.

She looked sheepishly up at him through her lashes. “I’m sorry. Bys takes his job very seriously. I suppose it was rude to not introduce him, but he doesn’t like such formalities while he is working. My brother insists, and he’s more stubborn than usual recently.”

Miranda

A bodyguard. Roman caught on immediately. He should’ve expected no less. “Your brother insists on your having a bodyguard? Has someone gone after you before?” He asked, concern flashing across his face.

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

She bit her lip nervously. “About a year and a half ago. Right after he stopped traveling with me. He hired Bys and his team. There have been some threatening letters recently, so they have been extra cautious.”

Miranda

Roman nodded and sighed. “I’m sorry people can be so… Odd.” He shook his head and smiled. “Why don’t we talk about something more… Cheerful? I don’t want to make you nervous. Though if it helps, Jay and I have trained in martial arts since we were young children. With our Starfleet training we’re quite skilled in self defense.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO