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

(snip)

Roman had slipped over to her seat and when he saw her sway, put his hands out. He was relieved when Lori came to help her. Jay moved over and let Roman hold onto him while he got up. Then kept an arm around Roman to keep him upright. Roman smiled at Rand. “Thanks for trying, but you have to take care of yourself, too.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

She nodded, “I’m alright, really.” She stared up at the front of the Caliano’s home. It was pretty, homey, Rand liked it. It was different from her family’s home, but had the same feel to it. She and Lori followed everyone else inside. Bys and Pater disappeared around the side of the house. They were very careful as they checked the property and then seemed to disappear, though Rand knew they were very close by.

Yeoman Rand

The Calianos led them all inside. “Lori, Rand, make yourselves at home. Jay, settle Roman in, in bed, and we’ll take dinner to him.” Jay had told his father what the doctor had said. “Right, come on big guy,” Jay said, leading Roman back to the back bedroom. Fifteen years ago, it was guest bedroom. When Roman moved in, it became his. It was pretty bare bones, he’d never really moved in, despite the Calianos urging him to.

Lori led Rand over to a chair and they sat. Rand watched as Jay led him away. “Jay is really nice. Looking out for him.” He reminded her of her brother.

Lori nodded with a silly grin. “He is. He’s really sweet. I like him a lot. He really loves his family.”

Jay helped him to the bed and made him sit down. Roman sat willingly and lay back on his bed. “I’m alright, Jay, there’s no need for all this.”

“Yes there is, now lay down, shut up, and wait for dinner.” Jay said. He sat next to Roman in an arm chair in the room.

In the main living area, Mrs Caliano smiled at Rand. “Do you need anything? If not, it’s the back bedroom on the left. That’s where Roman will be.” Mr Caliano chuckled, “He better be. For the next twenty four hours minimum. I’ll make it an order if I have to.”

~ Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO

Lori laughed, “Jay said you would have to do that. Will it work?”

Rand shook her head. “Oh, no ma’am. I’m fine, thank you,” she said quietly. She hadn’t thought about the fact Roman having to rest meant in his bedroom. She looked down the hall and told Lori very quietly. “I… I think I should go.”

Lori helped her stand, “Nonsense.” She turned toward the hall. She paused to look at Mrs. Caliano. “Maybe some chamomile tea if you have any?” She asked quietly.

She stopped at the back bedroom door and knocked on the frame. “Are you two up for some company?” Lori asked.

Yeoman Rand