N.B.: An epilogue to the second season episode “Singularity.” ~RB

Trip’s hand reached out, shrank back, and reached out again toward the buzzer next to the door. He struck it before he could change his mind. Then, he waited. And waited... He was contemplating whether he should ring again or slink away when the door opened.

Malcolm blinked groggily at him from the doorway, hair mussed, red pillow marks marring one cheek. Trip thought he was damn cute like that and smiled a little at the sight.

“Commander?”

“Hey, Malcolm. Sorry to wake you. C’n we talk?”

Malcolm stepped aside, motioning Trip into the room. “What about?”

“I wanted to apologise.”

“Apologise?”

“Yeah, for jumpin’ on ya in the Situation Room like that.”

“Well, you weren’t exactly yourself, and ... I shouldn’t have said what I did. I’m sorry as well.”

Silence settled between them as they each stared at their feet. Trip was the first to look up and speak. “Does this mean we c’n kiss and make up now?”

Malcolm smiled shyly. “I’d like that.” He took a step toward the Southerner, tilting his chin up when the man ran a knuckle under it. When their lips met, he let his eyes fall shut, and he melted into the embrace.

“I’d never really want to hurt you, you know,” Trip whispered when the kiss ended.

“And I’d never want to see you taken out and shot. I love you.” A smile graced Malcolm’s features. “Even if you are less than disciplined at times.”

“’S why you love me.” Trip rested his forehead against Malcolm’s.

“Mmm... Partially, yes, I think it is. Could I go back to bed now?”

Trip pulled back reluctantly. “I suppose I should go and let ya sleep.”

“Who said anything about you leaving?”