Paying a visit

Posted on Thu May 23rd, 2024 @ 4:05am by Lieutenant Commander Alicia Kelea-Salik & Captain Gary Taylor

Mission: MISSION 0 - History Speaks
Location: Gary & Lia’s Quarters
1520 words - 3 OF Standard Post Measure

With Gary at home resting after his illness Alicia decided to drop in and see how he was feeling. Pressing the door chime she hoped she wasn’t going to end up waking him up.

Inside his quarters, Gary had gotten up and fixed himself a cup of hot chocolate and settled into the recliner. He had even gotten dressed and put a robe over his clothes as he still got chilled at times. He had just taken his first sip of hot chocolate when he door chime sounded. Wondering who it was but realizing he wouldn't know unless he let them in, he released the door lock and called out "Come in!"

Walking in Alicia offered a warm smile. “Hi Gary, I thought I’d drop by and see how you were feeling. It’s been odd not having you around.”

"Alicia!" Gary greeted her pleasantly. He like Alicia as a friend and she an outstanding counselor. "Thanks for stopping in. Would you like some hot chocolate?"

“I would love some, but don’t bother getting up I’ll get it” Alicia smiled as she walked over seeing Gary had made his own hot chocolate with more to spare. Picking up a mug she poured herself some before returning to take a seat. “I’d love to know where you got actual powdered Chocolate! You know Betazoid’s and Chocolate!” She grinned as she sat down and took a sip. “Mmm...lovely!”

Gary gave her a grin. Oh, I've managed to acquire a few favors over the years Alicia. having powdered chocolate is just one of them. I also have real chocolate bars if you would like some. Just has to stay our secret and keep them away from Savar."" He chuckled.

Alicia smiled a wry smile. “There’s no hiding anything from Savar, he knows when I’m telling fibs!” She sipped some more of her chocolate drink savouring the flavour.

Gary nodded. "Damn Vulcan." He teased. "Probably picks up facial tics or changes in your voice, heartbeat or some other thing. So, in that case, take a couple and share with him."

“That’s very kind, thank you” Alicia smiled warmly. “So, how are you feeling? It came as a surprise when we were told you were ill.”

"My pleasure Alicia." Gary answered with a grin. "You're telling me. I was just as surprised and shocked as anyone when I first fell ill and then ended up in sickbay."

“You’re out now and recovering that’s what matters” Alicia relaxed back in her seat. “I had to explain to Connor that he couldn’t visit as planned because you were poorly, he was a little upset, but I told him once you’re well enough he can visit you then.”

Gary smiled and nodded at the mention of Connor. His evil twins son from the mirror universe. "He's a good boy and you and Savar are doing a fantastic job raising him. He's welcome here anytime Alicia. He doesn't need an invitation."

“I know Gary” Alicia smiled. “It’s just you have Lia and Little Lia, it must be strange for Lia having your son from an alternate universe here. I know she hasn’t complained, but I don’t want to add extra weight on your relationship.”

"Lia has accepted Connor and loves him as much as I love him. It was hard at first but she has come around with Angel's death but there aren't any issues. All is smooth sailing."

Alicia nodded. “That’s good, if there’s ever any problems you both know where you can find me.” She sipped a little more of her drink. “There are some counselling groups being put together for the children, it would help Little Lia to attend with the younger children.”

"I think that is an excellent idea, Alicia. What is the purpose of the counseling groups? And then I have to convince Lia to let Little Lia attend. Lia has gotten very protective of her."

“That’s to be expected, Lia is welcome to attend the group with Little Lia.” Alicia offered a comforting smile. “We mother’s tend to be very protective of our young, I’m protective of my own children so I totally understand.”

Gary nodded. "I will tell her and I am sure she will want to attend. She and little Lia have become quite close and I think it is wonderful."

“Lia is a natural when it comes to being a mother, her maternal instincts are there and it’s wonderful to see.” Alicia relaxed back in her seat. “Have you...noticed anything worrying about Lia’s behaviour? I have already spoken to her, and you know I can’t divulge anything that was said, but I was worried about her state of mind.”

Gary thought on Alicia's question, He had seen plenty that concerned him about Lia and he knew Alicia had only Lia's best interests at heart. "Her state of mind is in turmoil Alicia. One minute she's rational the next she's flying off the handle. I think it is because she feels all alone that everyone is ganging up on her and not listening to what she is saying."

Alicia nodded. “I’ve reassured Lia as best as I can, I’m always available if she should need someone other than you to talk to. Plus there’s Savar and Tate as well. I will do everything in my power to help both of you through this rough patch.”

"I've told her that Alicia. I just think Lia feels everyone is against her ever since she and S'hib had their um altercation with a suspect in Miraj's attack. However, I will tell her again. On a personal note, thank you for your support for Lia. It means a great deal to me."

Alicia nodded. “It’s my pleasure, plus it’s what I do.” She smiled warmly. “Any worries, no matter what the time, let me know okay?”

"I will Alicia. I promise." Gary answered. "Between us, we'll get Lia straightened out and back to her old self, hopefully very soon."

Alicia nodded. “We can hope so, but just be prepared if it’s not as quick as you’re thinking. These things can take a lot of time to work through.”

"I know how to be patient Alicia. I'm with for the long haul. No abandoning her. With our help and others, she will get through this." Gary answered.

“I know you know how to be patient” Alicia smiled. “I wasn’t saying you’re not. Anyway I should be getting back, you get your rest.”

Gary chuckled at Alicia's comeback. "I know Alicia. Thanks for the visit, feel free to stop in anytime. I enjoy your company and conversation. Oh! get some chocolate bars for you, Savar and the kids."

“Really!? You know me I never say no to chocolate!” Alicia grinned as she stood up to leave. “I’ll drop by with little man tomorrow so he can see you.”

Gary smiled broadly, "I look forward to it and enjoy the chocolate. Take as many as you like."

“I ma ybe excited but I’m not greedy” Alicia grinned as she went to pick up the chocolate, taking a modest amount of them. “This’ll do for now, thank you.”

Gary chuckled. "Well come back whenever you want more and even just to visit. I really enjoy the visits and the conversation."

Alicia nodded. “You’re always welcome to come visit us as well if you feel the need.” She smiled warmly. “Now get your rest, you’ll be back on duty in no time.”

Gary nodded at Alicia's comment. "Good point. I will have to do that. I just hate cutting into your time with Savar and the kids. I know that time is priceless."

“It is very precious, but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid visiting.” Alicia smiled. “Bring Lia and Little Lia one night, we’ll do dinner! I’ll arrange it with Savar.”

"Now that is an excellent idea!" Gary answered with a broad grin. "I know both the Lias would love it and it will give Little Lia a chance to meet some other children."

Alicia smiled. "Wonderful, bearing in mind though that N'Vea is quite young, Connor is only half Little Lia's age, and Soral is older she's still welcome to
play with them."

"All true Alicia but it will give LL a chance to interact with other children both younger and older than she is. I think it will be a good experience for her." Gary answered with a smile.

"Spoken like a true parent" Alicia smiled warmly. "Okay I'll speak with Savar and I'll let you know what night." She started towards the door. "In the meantime enjoy the peace and quiet."

"Sounds good. Just let me know. Let us know if you need us to bring anything for the meal as well. As for the peace and quiet. Trust me I will. Thanks for coming by Alicia. You made my day."

{OFF}