Chapter Text
I really don’t want him to go, Will said.
Soji and Kestra stood some distance away, watching with embarrassment as the three ‘old people’ embraced. Will started it, of course — he couldn’t help it. He enveloped Jean-Luc in a tight bear-hug, hyper-aware of the smallness, the fragility of Jean-Luc’s body, how tired he seemed. In fact, Deanna agreed. The weariness was rolling off Jean-Luc in waves.
She joined the hug. Jean-Luc’s broad hand landed on her waist, a gentle touch. She heard the soft noise of Will’s lips on Jean-Luc’s cheek, then a little bolder, a kiss on the lips — quick and chaste — and Deanna leaned in for one too.
I’m surprised he let me, she said.
I’m not, Will said. He tightened the hug to stop Jean-Luc from walking away. Listen to him. He’s sick and tired of all this fighting. He’s been desperate for someone to take care of him ever since the Borg.
Agreed. Deanna paused in the middle of rubbing Jean-Luc’s back. What do you mean, ‘listen to him’?
Will paused, unsure. He pulled back a little to study Jean-Luc’s face. Jean-Luc raised his eyebrows.
You should manipulate him into staying, Imzadi, Will said. You’re great at manipulation.
Thanks, said Deanna sarcastically. Why don’t you try asking him yourself?
“Ask me what?” Jean-Luc said.
Will opened his mouth to explain, but the words died on his tongue. He turned to Deanna. She stared back at him, just as speechless. Jean-Luc glanced between them, concerned.
Will? Deanna? said his voice in both their heads. Is something…
Realization caught up to him. His face blanched.
…wrong? His thoughts echoed through their heads. A massive grin split Will’s face. Deanna took Jean-Luc’s hand with a disbelieving chuckle.
“Nothing at all,” she assured him.
And she added, so only he and Will could hear:
Imzadi.