The Valiant - Michael Jan Friedman [30]
Not so long ago, Ben Zoma had lectured him about his overzealousness. But surely, this was one case where he couldnt be overzealous. No amount of caution would be too great, Joseph told himself.
Even if the woman did look pretty harmless.
Ben Zoma put his hand on Josephs shoulder. Youll only be here a couple of hours. Then Ill get you some relief.
The security officer nodded. Acknowledged.
Ben Zoma smiled at the terseness of Josephs response. Then he left, and Fox and Sekowsky followed in his wake.
Joseph turned to Santana. For a moment, their eyes met and locked. Then, made uncomfortable by the contact, the security officer turned away.
I dont bite, she told him.
He looked back at her, but he decided not to reply. He didnt want to be distracted by conversation.
Santana smiled a wan smile. You know, she said hi a friendly, almost playful tone, the guards on the starbase talked to me. Are the rules that different here?
It seemed rude not to speak to her at all. No, Joseph reflected, more than rude. Cruel, really. After all, the woman was going to be in that cell for a long time.
If you need anything, he responded finally, let me know.
Ah, said Santana, her smile blossoming into something lovely. So you can talk. Thats good to know.
With an effort, he kept from smiling back. Is there? he asked. Anything you need, I mean?
She thought about it for a moment. Not right now, she told him. But if I think of anything, youll be the first to know.
Then he did smile.
Were making progress, Santana observed. First a conversation. Then a smile. Next thing you know, Ill have you in my power.
Joseph felt his heart jump up his throat. Instinctively, his hand went to the phaser on his hip.
She took note of it. Actually, she said, her voice a good deal more measured, I was joking with you.
As quickly as he could, he took his hand off his weapon. So was I, he answered, trying to salvage some of his dignity.
Santana smiled again. Listen, she said, I should probably let you believe you fooled me just now, but well, Im a telepath. I can tell when youre joking and when youre not. And just now She shrugged.
Joseph blushed.
So, she said, now that weve shared an incredibly awkward moment whats your name?
There didnt seem to be any harm in telling her. Joseph. Peter Joseph. But everyone calls me Pug.
Pug, Santana echoed, tilting her head to the side as if to get a better look at him. Yes I can see why.
The scrutiny made Joseph feel self-conscious. But in a way, it was also flattering. It wasnt often he had beautiful women staring at him.
Tell me something, Pug.
Whats that? he asked.
I dont mean something in particular, she explained. I mean tell me anything. Anything at all. Itll make it easier to pass the time.
The security officer tried to think of something, but he couldnt. He had never been much of a conversationalist.
All right, then, said Santana. Ill tell you something. Ill tell you about the place I come from.
And she did.
Picard reported to the ships lounge as soon as he received the captains summons. But by the time he arrived, Ruhalter and Leach were already seated around the sleek, black table.
Have a seat, Jean-Luc, said the captain.
Picard pulled out a chair across from Leach and sat down. Then he gave Ruhalter his attention.
I think one of us should get to know Santana better, the captain declared. Im not saying Eliopouloss conclusions arent valid, but Id prefer to have a second opinion.
Makes sense, Leach agreed.
Ruhalter regarded the second officer. I noticed some He smiled. Lets call it magnetism between you and Santana.
Picard felt his cheeks heat up. Magnetism?
Thats what I said, came Ruhalters reply. I didnt get where I am by being oblivious to that kind of thing. Shes attracted to you, Jean-Luc, no question about it.
Suddenly, the second officers uniform seemed a size too tight for him. He lifted his chin. If you say so, sir.
Id like you to spend some time with her, the captain told him. Take her out of her cell, if you like. See what you can