Two Souls, One Heart - Greg & Brooke's Engagement Party (Open to All)

[Leanna Mazal]

[Leanna - Puzzles]

It wasn't difficult for the pregnant Betazoid to pick up on the emotions associated with Antoinette Ellis as the elder woman, engaged in conversation with her daughter. Having had enough experience of being in her presence, to understand how she was and of course, would remain as a supportive presence to her best friend. However when her Uncle appeared on stage, followed by Brooke's entrance, Lea couldn't help but feel pride at seeing their plans come to fruition, especially after only a few days of practice.

So her focus for the moment was on her other best friend, appreciating the meaning of the lyrics, before the song came to an end and she joined in with the cheers and rapturous applause. Once it began to die down, she didn't blame Greg for wanting to go see his beloved and thought about calling Jenna over to join their group. That was until Estelle arrived and spoke with Flick, unsure as to whether she should laugh or cringe with what was said.

Knowing she didn't have to say anything as she shared a look with Flick, who seemed highly amused and had to admit that Estelle sure knew how to make an entrance. Although was relieved that Brooke had already made hers, so the attention had been on the right person. Still this could either continue to be funny or awkward and wished that she had something stronger to drink.

" Would anyone like a drink?" she asked, as Aryn and Alec, excused themselves and didn't blame them for doing so.

********

[Brooke - Puzzles]

The euphoric feeling of not only the reception they had gotten, but also the fact that she had just sung in public continued to buoy Brooke as if nothing could burst the bubble, that she now found herself wrapped up in. However as she spotted Greg moving through the crowd, in order to see her, only added to how she was feeling right now, especially seeing how proud he looked.

His approval and reaction meant everything to her and at the same time, couldn't wait to be close to him again. So when he then stopped in front of the stage and reached up with his arms, Brooke grinned as she moved forward, before he lifted her down and took her in his arms. Barely registering the crowd's delight as he then kissed her with such passion, that it felt as though it was only the two of them in the room.

When they finally came up for air, Brooke didn't move from his embrace as she looked at him. " I know its a bit late, but surprise!" she said, unable to stop smiling.

[Judith Eastman]

"Your Honor!"

Felicity might have sounded vaguely scandalised by Judy's grandmother, but she was really highly amused. Maybe that shot was kicking in. When the older woman stagewhispered her offer to usurp T'Prina, Felicity valiantly tried not to burst out laughing.

"What Vulcan?"

[NPC - The Hon. Judge Estelle Roth (Ret.) - Puzzles]

"Don't pretend you don't know what I'm talking about, young lady. I heard the talking. Felicity, Hawke, Felicity, Hawke. Your last visit, in the summer, when you didn't even think to try and contact me. Sure, I was out of town, but surely you could've given me a call. Apparently you met everyone else, like Judith," Estelle kvetched at the outraged reaction. "But no matter, young lady, I'll still help you, since you're such a lovely young woman."

***

[Gregory Ellis - Puzzles]

Greg had very purposely moved away from his family when he'd returned from the bar, and closer to Judy, Max, Aryn and Alec. He loved his sister, but the Felicity / Antoinette combination was explosive, and he didn't want to have to police either of them during his engagement party. It was a night of celebration for Brooke and for him; something they wanted to share with their friends. It was a way of completely settling in to life here on the station, and a way of welcoming those most important to them into their lives.

When Greg saw his future wife take to the stage, looking like she belonged as the lead star in a blockbuster holonovel, all of his previous worries and concerns melted away. The lump in his throat formed and got bigger as she sang, her beautiful voice joining with Jem's with a practiced ease. The lyrics of the song spoke to him in many ways; but he especially thought the sentiment that she was perfect, and that he wasn't deserving of her, but would try nonetheless, to be very apt.

He was very proud of her. And beyond touched that she would do something so scary as a way to show not just him, but everyone else, how strongly she felt.

"She sure does," he agreed with Judy as the clapping began to die down. He was still in awe. "She sings when she bakes, but never like that. I had no idea." He turned his happy expression toward the stage and excused himself again. "I should go and get her before the band claims her as their own for the rest of the night."

With a chorus of 'excuse' and 'pardon mes', Greg made his way through the crowd to the stage. He stopped in front of the bowing pair and extended his arms to his fiance, ready to lift her down from the heady heights of stage performance. Once he had a hold of her, and much to the crowd's delight, he would take her in his arms and kiss her thoroughly.

[Leanna - Puzzles]

It wasn't difficult for the pregnant Betazoid to pick up on the emotions associated with Antoinette Ellis as the elder woman, engaged in conversation with her daughter. Having had enough experience of being in her presence, to understand how she was and of course, would remain as a supportive presence to her best friend. However when her Uncle appeared on stage, followed by Brooke's entrance, Lea couldn't help but feel pride at seeing their plans come to fruition, especially after only a few days of practice.

So her focus for the moment was on her other best friend, appreciating the meaning of the lyrics, before the song came to an end and she joined in with the cheers and rapturous applause. Once it began to die down, she didn't blame Greg for wanting to go see his beloved and thought about calling Jenna over to join their group. That was until Estelle arrived and spoke with Flick, unsure as to whether she should laugh or cringe with what was said.

Knowing she didn't have to say anything as she shared a look with Flick, who seemed highly amused and had to admit that Estelle sure knew how to make an entrance. Although was relieved that Brooke had already made hers, so the attention had been on the right person. Still this could either continue to be funny or awkward and wished that she had something stronger to drink.

" Would anyone like a drink?" she asked, as Aryn and Alec, excused themselves and didn't blame them for doing so.

[Professor Emeritus Judith Eastman-Williams & Max Williams - Puzzles]

"Good idea. Bring her back around to us at some point. We'll be here," Judy told Greg as he left, and justifiably so.

And then, Estelle happened.

Judy turned to Max and whispered, "I'm afraid we'll have to flee the country for a bit."

And when Lea decided to offer drinks, that was the time to make their escape.
"We'll come with you," Max offered, as Judy then began to stand up rather too fast for a woman of her health.
"Steady, you," he reminded her, putting an arm to slow the woman's motion. Judy's health woes, which could have overshadowed their first 6 months of marriage (and more) if they had allowed them to, had led Max to look at his wife as a fragile treasure to be protected.
"Yes, Lea, we'll walk with you," Judy echoed as she stood up, slowly and carefully. "So much champagne circulating around, nothing I can drink."

[Felicity Ellis]

[Doug Zaman - Puzzles]

"I'm alright, my dear. I've had worse, trust me," Doug answered Candy as he took the champagne and stood back up.

Doug then looked around. He had a tingling sense that there were El-Aurians - multiple! - somewhere nearby, but he wasn't sure where.
Consequently, in between sips of champagne, he asked Candy, "Have you noticed anyone around with an El-Aurian vibe?"

It wasn't a question he found her likely to have an answer to, but it would explain his searching.

[Hot Candy - Puzzles]

Candy was sipping on the champagne, which was really rather good. Her sharp eyes were weighing the room, as usual, but she had no real answer for Doug when he asked if she could sense another El-Aurian.

"What might constitute an El-Aurian vibe?" Candy was smiling as she helped him 'search', even though she had no idea what she was looking for. "Someone dressed a little like your fine self? Or someone with the aura of a sage?"

~~~

[NPC - The Hon. Judge Estelle Roth (Ret.) - Puzzles]

"Don't pretend you don't know what I'm talking about, young lady. I heard the talking. Felicity, Hawke, Felicity, Hawke. Your last visit, in the summer, when you didn't even think to try and contact me. Sure, I was out of town, but surely you could've given me a call. Apparently you met everyone else, like Judith," Estelle kvetched at the outraged reaction. "But no matter, young lady, I'll still help you, since you're such a lovely young woman."

[Felicity Ellis - Puzzles]

At her mother's one-word question, Felicity responded. "Commander T'Prina is Commander Hawke's..." What was she? Partner? Significant other? "Girlfriend." Was a strange word to use, since she wasn't at all sure what the nature of their relationship was, but lacking any real information she supposed it would have to do.

Felicity was frowning as Estelle spoke, not following straight away. "Summer..?" She repeated, confusion evident on her face. She hadn't visited that summer, she'd been light years away on the Shran. Then, the penny dropped. "Oh no, Your Honor, that wasn't me. That was an alternate future version of me. I would never visit Columbus and not call on you."

She was trying resolutely not to mention the nature of the alternate Felicity's relationship with Hawke. Not just because it made her wholly uncomfortable, but also because it would give her mother far too much ammunition.

"Thank you for the offer of assistance, though. I think we should probably leave the Commander and his lady Vulcan to their own devices."

~~~

[Brooke - Puzzles]

The euphoric feeling of not only the reception they had gotten, but also the fact that she had just sung in public continued to buoy Brooke as if nothing could burst the bubble, that she now found herself wrapped up in. However as she spotted Greg moving through the crowd, in order to see her, only added to how she was feeling right now, especially seeing how proud he looked.

His approval and reaction meant everything to her and at the same time, couldn't wait to be close to him again. So when he then stopped in front of the stage and reached up with his arms, Brooke grinned as she moved forward, before he lifted her down and took her in his arms. Barely registering the crowd's delight as he then kissed her with such passion, that it felt as though it was only the two of them in the room.

When they finally came up for air, Brooke didn't move from his embrace as she looked at him. " I know its a bit late, but surprise!" she said, unable to stop smiling.

[Gregory Ellis - Puzzles]

At Brooke's exclamation of 'Surprise!', Greg laughed, his eyes glinting happily as they moved from her lips, slightly swollen and red from their kiss, to her eyes. "You are a dark horse, Fiance."

His hand slipped from the nape of her neck, down her arm and grasped her hand. "That was amazing." He gave her hand a squeeze and then with gestured toward the crowd. "Ready to be congratulated?"

[Leanna Mazal]

[Leanna - Puzzles]

It seemed as though her offer of drinks, had come at the right time as Estelle continued, with the increasingly awkward topic of conversation, regarding Flick and Hawke. Of course Lea knew some of the details of what Judy's Grandmother, was getting at, but still it seemed as though she had inadvertently upset the former Judge. However as Judy and Max, accepted her offer, she knew it was not only a means of escape, but she also intended to return with a refill for best friend, as she didn't want to completely abandon her.

" That's great and I'll be back soon" she said, both answering hr friends and the small group that she was still a part of. Waiting until she had began to move off to answer Judy, regarding her comment about the Champagne, especially as Flick answered, her Mother then Estelle, which she hoped would placate the older woman.

" We can get you something, there's also a range of non alcoholic cocktails if you fancy one of those".

********

[Gregory Ellis - Puzzles]

At Brooke's exclamation of 'Surprise!', Greg laughed, his eyes glinting happily as they moved from her lips, slightly swollen and red from their kiss, to her eyes. "You are a dark horse, Fiance."

His hand slipped from the nape of her neck, down her arm and grasped her hand. "That was amazing." He gave her hand a squeeze and then with gestured toward the crowd. "Ready to be congratulated?"

[Brooke - Puzzles]

Brooke very much enjoyed hearing Greg's laugh and seeing that happy glint in his eyes as he looked at her, before calling her a dark horse. This only made the future Mrs Ellis grin, as there was no denying that she had been to a degree, with keeping all of this hidden from him. " I guess I am, but it was worth it" she quipped playfully.

Shuddering slightly as she felt his hand move from the nape of her neck, down her arm, reacting to his touch before feeling that extra love and support as Greg, then took hold of her hand. Taking a moment or two to answer him, both with his compliment and if she was ready to be congratulated.

" Thank you, Babe, to be honest I didn't know what was the most nerve inducing, singing to everyone or finally having that confidence to change my hair, but seeing you and the way you looked at me, took all of that away" she said as she squeezed his hand back, knowing that together she could face anything, including their guests.

" As for being ready, oh yes, especially with you by my side".

[Peter Dannenberg]

[Dr. Antoinette Ellis & Felicity Ellis - Puzzles]

"She could be helping people in a much more discernible way, don't you think? A career in medicine would have challenged her, could have made a difference to thousands." The inference was of course that Antoinette thought her daughter's work was a waste of time, but she never actually said as much. Not to a relative stranger, but anyone with half a brain would catch her very obvious meaning.

When Peter went on to tell her about his position and assignment to the Shran, straight out of the Academy, Antoinette managed to almost look motherly. "Ah, so young. Still plenty of time to set the galaxy on fire, Peter." The woman was somehow able to make the sentence sound affectionate and condescending, all in one.

The arrival of Felicity did not go unnoticed, nor did the smile or drink she bestowed upon the young man. Antoinette's eyes narrowed.

"So I've noticed," Felicity muttered in an aside to Peter when he said he'd met her mother. "I'm here to save you." Felicity managed not to wink, but Antoinette wasn't quite so restrained.

"My errant daughter arrives late, a drink in hand. As is usual."

"You expect me to deal with you sober?" Felicity responded, her tone light, and would have sounded almost teasing to anyone who didn't know her well enough to recognise the flash of her stare or slightly narrowed eyes.

As Leanna and Peter introduced themselves, Antoinette took the opportunity to move closer to her daughter. She leaned in, her hand on Felicity's elbow. "I expect you to act with a bit of civility," the older women muttered through clenched teeth, but still smiling for effect. Their eyes were drawn toward the stage, where Jem Sparkles was making her entrance. As the band struck those first opening chords, Felicity pulled her elbow from her mother's pinching grip. "This is Greg's night," she hissed the warning in her ear before moving off. "We can catch up later."

Felicity squared her shoulders and tried to push the ill-feeling building up inside of her back down again, so she could concentrate on the wonderful performance unfolding before them. And she almost managed to forget it. Greg was close by, positively beside himself with pride, and when Brooke and Jem reached the climax of their song together, Felicity was clapping so hard her hands were stinging.

Peter caught the slight condescending tone in Antoinette's words. Somehow she managed to distract from that with her facial expression but not fully successfully as it seemed. Peter was about to retort something – though he got the feeling that it wouldn't help matters really – but before he could do so he was pleasantly distracted by Felicity's arrival.

Since he was standing right next to the pair he could hear and see the words and faces of both ladies and it was apparent that Felicity hadn't overstated her relationship to her mother.

As Felicity turned away from Antoinette and back to him Peter gave her a fond look. Then leaned in closer to her to murmur in her direction. ,,You look amazing tonight." He smiled at her and then his attention was drawn to the stage.

He followed the performance attentively and in the end didn't hesitate to join in to the applause, though it was a bit awkward to clap your hands with a tumbler in his hand.

[NPC - The Hon. Judge Estelle Roth (Ret.) - Puzzles]

Estelle strode into Puzzles to the last strains of the song, not entirely aware of what had transpired. She saw the duo on the stage, the distinguished gentleman in the garish suit with the young woman - call girl? - and the large clump that included her granddaughter.

It was the last group that she approached, namely a very particular young lady.
"Felicity Ellis, as I live and breathe! I thought you'd died, to be completely honest," the retired jurist exclaimed.
Then, she turned to the woman more directly, while giving the young man she was next to a sort of 'just a moment' look.
"I heard something about you and Hawke again. If you're planning to get him back from the Vulcan, I can help you," she whispered.

"Your Honor!"

Felicity might have sounded vaguely scandalised by Judy's grandmother, but she was really highly amused. Maybe that shot was kicking in. When the older woman stagewhispered her offer to usurp T'Prina, Felicity valiantly tried not to burst out laughing.

"What Vulcan?"

At her mother's one-word question, Felicity responded. "Commander T'Prina is Commander Hawke's..." What was she? Partner? Significant other? "Girlfriend." Was a strange word to use, since she wasn't at all sure what the nature of their relationship was, but lacking any real information she supposed it would have to do.

Felicity was frowning as Estelle spoke, not following straight away. "Summer..?" She repeated, confusion evident on her face. She hadn't visited that summer, she'd been light years away on the Shran. Then, the penny dropped. "Oh no, Your Honor, that wasn't me. That was an alternate future version of me. I would never visit Columbus and not call on you."

She was trying resolutely not to mention the nature of the alternate Felicity's relationship with Hawke. Not just because it made her wholly uncomfortable, but also because it would give her mother far too much ammunition.

"Thank you for the offer of assistance, though. I think we should probably leave the Commander and his lady Vulcan to their own devices."

Shortly after a little old lady joined the group. Her rather blunt words directed at Felicity made Peter look at her in surprise. The fact that Felicity called the old lady 'Your honor' only added to his confusion. However, he pricked up his ears when she mentioned having heard something about Felicity and someone named Hawke again? Felicity being dead and something about an alternate future version of herself?

[Judith Eastman]

[Felicity Ellis - Puzzles]

At her mother's one-word question, Felicity responded. "Commander T'Prina is Commander Hawke's..." What was she? Partner? Significant other? "Girlfriend." Was a strange word to use, since she wasn't at all sure what the nature of their relationship was, but lacking any real information she supposed it would have to do.

Felicity was frowning as Estelle spoke, not following straight away. "Summer..?" She repeated, confusion evident on her face. She hadn't visited that summer, she'd been light years away on the Shran. Then, the penny dropped. "Oh no, Your Honor, that wasn't me. That was an alternate future version of me. I would never visit Columbus and not call on you."

She was trying resolutely not to mention the nature of the alternate Felicity's relationship with Hawke. Not just because it made her wholly uncomfortable, but also because it would give her mother far too much ammunition.

"Thank you for the offer of assistance, though. I think we should probably leave the Commander and his lady Vulcan to their own devices."

Shortly after a little old lady joined the group. Her rather blunt words directed at Felicity made Peter look at her in surprise. The fact that Felicity called the old lady 'Your honor' only added to his confusion. However, he pricked up his ears when she mentioned having heard something about Felicity and someone named Hawke again? Felicity being dead and something about an alternate future version of herself?

[NPC - The Hon. Judge Estelle Roth (Ret.) - Puzzles]

"Alternate future version, huh?" Estelle asked, almost in disbelief. It seemed so ridiculous, but so was all of Starfleet. "I don't get this fixation in Starfleet with weird [spoiler]shit[/spoiler]. But, if you want this future to be different, that is your choice, missy. Your friend here is easy on the eyes, if you know what I mean."
The "friend", in this case, as indicated by Estelle's hand gestures and gaze, was Peter. There was something between him and young miss Ellis, though Estelle wasn't sure exactly what.
"Rebound boyfriend?"

***

[Leanna - Puzzles]

It seemed as though her offer of drinks, had come at the right time as Estelle continued, with the increasingly awkward topic of conversation, regarding Flick and Hawke. Of course Lea knew some of the details of what Judy's Grandmother, was getting at, but still it seemed as though she had inadvertently upset the former Judge. However as Judy and Max, accepted her offer, she knew it was not only a means of escape, but she also intended to return with a refill for best friend, as she didn't want to completely abandon her.

" That's great and I'll be back soon" she said, both answering hr friends and the small group that she was still a part of. Waiting until she had began to move off to answer Judy, regarding her comment about the Champagne, especially as Flick answered, her Mother then Estelle, which she hoped would placate the older woman.

" We can get you something, there's also a range of non alcoholic cocktails if you fancy one of those".

[Professor Emeritus Judith Eastman-Williams & Max Williams - Puzzles]

"I think a coffee will be more helpful," Judy answered. "I'm afraid I'll be running around apologizing for everything my grandmother says and does tonight."
"You know we can't let you have that, kishka," Max told her, using his weirdest, most affectionate pet name for her. "I think everyone else could use a bomb cyclone at least, especially Flick."
"I actually think my grandmother is giving Flick a nice escape," Judy retorted, quietly enough that the Ellises wouldn't overhear. "What do you think, Lea?"

Being as close as they were, Judy and Max could easily keep going back and forth for weeks on end. They had to remind themselves to keep Lea in the conversation.

[Dugris Zaman]

[Hot Candy - Puzzles]

Candy was sipping on the champagne, which was really rather good. Her sharp eyes were weighing the room, as usual, but she had no real answer for Doug when he asked if she could sense another El-Aurian.

"What might constitute an El-Aurian vibe?" Candy was smiling as she helped him 'search', even though she had no idea what she was looking for. "Someone dressed a little like your fine self? Or someone with the aura of a sage?"

[Puzzles]

Aryn and Alec both clapped and cheered when Brooke finished her song. They smiled as Greg made his way to her, pleased to see how happy the couple was.

Alec was just turning to say something to Judy when Aryn put a hand on his arm. Do you...I sense something. Is there another El-Aurian here?

Alec closed his eyes and let his senses take over. Yes, he said slowly. I think there might be. He craned his neck to look at the other guests. Many were people that they were at least passing familiar with, but there were a few new faces. It must be someone who came in after us. I didn't notice anything when we entered.

Aryn nodded in agreement and said to those around them, Would you excuse us? We're going to wander around a bit. That said, the couple broke from the group and began meandering about the room, Alec snagging them both sparkling ciders to drink.

[Dr. Dugris "Doug" Zaman - Puzzles]

"I mean someone who looks like you can just talk to them," Doug explained. "Someone who seems inexplicably like a good listener. Some like these two!"
At last, Doug found the not one, but two El-Aurians he was looking for, and moved to approach them.
However, in between them was a napkin, which Doug naturally slipped on. He managed to steady himself, grabbing onto Candy's arm to do so.

"I'm so sorry about that. Whoopsies!" he exclaimed. "Are the two of you both Listeners?"

[Aryn Corliss]

[Dr. Dugris "Doug" Zaman - Puzzles]

"I mean someone who looks like you can just talk to them," Doug explained. "Someone who seems inexplicably like a good listener. Some like these two!"
At last, Doug found the not one, but two El-Aurians he was looking for, and moved to approach them.
However, in between them was a napkin, which Doug naturally slipped on. He managed to steady himself, grabbing onto Candy's arm to do so.

"I'm so sorry about that. Whoopsies!" he exclaimed. "Are the two of you both Listeners?"

[Puzzles]

Aryn and Alec both started smiling as they caught sight of the man in the loud suit, along with the woman beside him, but started in surprise when the man nearly fell approaching them. Alec even jumped forward a step to help if he hadn't been able to right himself. But in short order, he was standing in front of them.

That's quite all right, Alec answered. Yes, we are. And I sense that you are, too. Are you okay? He glanced between the other El-Aurian and his companion curiously. My name is Alec Trenzal.

And I'm Aryn Corliss. We're so happy to meet you.

[Felicity Ellis]

[...]
As Felicity turned away from Antoinette and back to him Peter gave her a fond look. Then leaned in closer to her to murmur in her direction. ,,You look amazing tonight." He smiled at her and then his attention was drawn to the stage.

He followed the performance attentively and in the end didn't hesitate to join in to the applause, though it was a bit awkward to clap your hands with a tumbler in his hand.

[Dr. Antoinette Ellis & Felicity Ellis - Puzzles]

Felicity returned Peter's look, her brows raised with some surprise. "Thanks," she murmured back, a smile curving her mouth. She didn't feel amazing, but somehow his presence, along with the kind compliment, helped pull her out of what could have been an introspective funk. The smile grew a little coy as she followed up with, "I remember that suit."

[NPC - The Hon. Judge Estelle Roth (Ret.) - Puzzles]

"Alternate future version, huh?" Estelle asked, almost in disbelief. It seemed so ridiculous, but so was all of Starfleet. "I don't get this fixation in Starfleet with weird [spoiler]shit[/spoiler]. But, if you want this future to be different, that is your choice, missy. Your friend here is easy on the eyes, if you know what I mean."
The "friend", in this case, as indicated by Estelle's hand gestures and gaze, was Peter. There was something between him and young miss Ellis, though Estelle wasn't sure exactly what.
"Rebound boyfriend?"

Felicity, who had been in the middle of a tasty sip of her whiskey, almost choked on it. She coughed enthusiastically, her eyes watering with the effort and sting of the alcohol going down the absolute wrong pipe. "What!?"

Her hand was splayed on her chest as she tried to compose herself. The colour was rising to her cheeks with a speed she hadn't realised possible. "No, Your Honor. I mean - yes, he is very easy on the eyes," she gestured toward Peter. And as though suddenly remembering he was still there, a whole new wave of embarrassment washed over her. Standing there talking about him like that was not acceptable.

She sucked in a breath, her throat and chest on fire from the accidental whiskey inhalation, and attempted to fix the situation. "There wouldn't be any rebound, honestly. Nothing ever happened between Hawke and I."

"Darling, that is not how it looked the last time I was here."

Felicity turned and speared her mother with a warning look, which Antoinette ignored and pressed on. "Speaking of the Commander, where is he this evening?"

"I hope for his sake that he's far away from here."

~~~

[Brooke - Puzzles]

Brooke very much enjoyed hearing Greg's laugh and seeing that happy glint in his eyes as he looked at her, before calling her a dark horse. This only made the future Mrs Ellis grin, as there was no denying that she had been to a degree, with keeping all of this hidden from him. " I guess I am, but it was worth it" she quipped playfully.

Shuddering slightly as she felt his hand move from the nape of her neck, down her arm, reacting to his touch before feeling that extra love and support as Greg, then took hold of her hand. Taking a moment or two to answer him, both with his compliment and if she was ready to be congratulated.

" Thank you, Babe, to be honest I didn't know what was the most nerve inducing, singing to everyone or finally having that confidence to change my hair, but seeing you and the way you looked at me, took all of that away" she said as she squeezed his hand back, knowing that together she could face anything, including their guests.

" As for being ready, oh yes, especially with you by my side".

[Gregory Ellis - Puzzles]

"I honestly had no idea," he whispered in her ear. "I knew you were planning something, of course, but I could never have expected all of this." He switched her hand to his opposite, and then wrapped an arm around her slim waist to better guide her through the well-wishers. "I was beside myself waiting," he added with a brief, self-deprecating chuckle, "You were so worth the wait though."

In truth, Greg knew he would wait for as long as he needed to make sure his future wife was happy. They waded through the crowds, stopping to chat with their friends for a few moments, though all the time steadily making their way back toward their families.

~~~

[Dr. Dugris "Doug" Zaman - Puzzles]

"I mean someone who looks like you can just talk to them," Doug explained. "Someone who seems inexplicably like a good listener. Some like these two!"
At last, Doug found the not one, but two El-Aurians he was looking for, and moved to approach them.
However, in between them was a napkin, which Doug naturally slipped on. He managed to steady himself, grabbing onto Candy's arm to do so.

"I'm so sorry about that. Whoopsies!" he exclaimed. "Are the two of you both Listeners?"

[Puzzles]

Aryn and Alec both started smiling as they caught sight of the man in the loud suit, along with the woman beside him, but started in surprise when the man nearly fell approaching them. Alec even jumped forward a step to help if he hadn't been able to right himself. But in short order, he was standing in front of them.

That's quite all right, Alec answered. Yes, we are. And I sense that you are, too. Are you okay? He glanced between the other El-Aurian and his companion curiously. My name is Alec Trenzal.

And I'm Aryn Corliss. We're so happy to meet you.

[Hot Candy - Puzzles]

Candy patted Doug's hand on her arm when he reached out to steady himself against her. When they very quickly encountered a pair of El-Aurians, she was quick to introduce herself. "It's lovely to make your acquaintance!" She enthused. "My name is Candy, Candy Barr. I'm a friend of Dougie's here." She patted his hand again, but then began to extricate herself.

"I'll leave y'all to chat about El-Aurian matters. I'm just a pesky 'lil human, but it was really very nice to meet both of you."

[Leanna Mazal]

***[Professor Emeritus Judith Eastman-Williams & Max Williams - Puzzles]

"I think a coffee will be more helpful," Judy answered. "I'm afraid I'll be running around apologizing for everything my grandmother says and does tonight."
"You know we can't let you have that, kishka," Max told her, using his weirdest, most affectionate pet name for her. "I think everyone else could use a bomb cyclone at least, especially Flick."
"I actually think my grandmother is giving Flick a nice escape," Judy retorted, quietly enough that the Ellises wouldn't overhear. "What do you think, Lea?"

Being as close as they were, Judy and Max could easily keep going back and forth for weeks on end. They had to remind themselves to keep Lea in the conversation.

[Leanna - Puzzles]

Whilst she understood Max's protectiveness and gentle reminder about Judy's coffee intake, she didn't blame Judy for the comment about her Grandmother or Max's about everyone needing a Bomb Cyclone. " I think most of us are used to Estelle, Judy, all though I will admit, I didn't know whether to laugh or shake my head back there, but Bomb Cylone's should help" she replied as they neared the bar.

Getting the attention of Jack as Judy kept her included in the conversation, when she was asked about Estelle given Flick a possible escape. Looking briefly at the group they had just left, " Let's hope so, if not I'll think of something to distract Estelle, when I go back".

********

[Gregory Ellis - Puzzles]

"I honestly had no idea," he whispered in her ear. "I knew you were planning something, of course, but I could never have expected all of this." He switched her hand to his opposite, and then wrapped an arm around her slim waist to better guide her through the well-wishers. "I was beside myself waiting," he added with a brief, self-deprecating chuckle, "You were so worth the wait though."

In truth, Greg knew he would wait for as long as he needed to make sure his future wife was happy. They waded through the crowds, stopping to chat with their friends for a few moments, though all the time steadily making their way back toward their families.

[Brooke & [Lucas Reynolds - Puzzles]

The sensation of Greg whispering in ear, was something that caused a similar effect to whenever he touched her and she always enjoyed when he did that. Still the future Mrs Ellis, couldn't stop smiling at not only his words but with the way he then slid his arm around her waist, keeping her safe and close. " I also have to admit, that Jem Sparkles and Lea were in on it, in fact the singing was Jem's idea, but I agree it was worth the wait and now you finally have me here".

As the couple then moved through the crowd and stopped to speak to friends, Lucas decided that he wanted to be the first to see his daughter and son in law, having watched everything from his spot, near the far end of the bar. Judging by the look of pride as he approached, he had enjoyed the performance as much as everyone else.

" There they are, my daughter, the talented singer and my soon to be son in law" he announced as he stopped in front of them. " Allow me to be the one, to congratulate you again".

" Thanks Dad" Brooke replied as she looked to Greg then her Father, happy to have Lucas here to share this time with them.

[Dugris Zaman]

[Puzzles]

Aryn and Alec both started smiling as they caught sight of the man in the loud suit, along with the woman beside him, but started in surprise when the man nearly fell approaching them. Alec even jumped forward a step to help if he hadn't been able to right himself. But in short order, he was standing in front of them.

That's quite all right, Alec answered. Yes, we are. And I sense that you are, too. Are you okay? He glanced between the other El-Aurian and his companion curiously. My name is Alec Trenzal.

And I'm Aryn Corliss. We're so happy to meet you.

[Hot Candy - Puzzles]

Candy patted Doug's hand on her arm when he reached out to steady himself against her. When they very quickly encountered a pair of El-Aurians, she was quick to introduce herself. "It's lovely to make your acquaintance!" She enthused. "My name is Candy, Candy Barr. I'm a friend of Dougie's here." She patted his hand again, but then began to extricate herself.

"I'll leave y'all to chat about El-Aurian matters. I'm just a pesky 'lil human, but it was really very nice to meet both of you."

[Dr. Dugris "Doug" Zaman - Puzzles]

"Don't wander too far, my lovely," Doug told Candy as he released her arm, and then kissed her cheek goodbye.

"Dugris Zaman, I go by Doug," the man then introduced himself. "Are the two of you from around here, or just visiting like myself?"

Doug pulled up a chair, for the benefit of his battered, tired knees. How many more of these bumps could he take?

[Peter Dannenberg]

[Starbase Columbus - Puzzles]

[Dr. Antoinette Ellis & Felicity Ellis - Puzzles]

Felicity returned Peter's look, her brows raised with some surprise. "Thanks," she murmured back, a smile curving her mouth. She didn't feel amazing, but somehow his presence, along with the kind compliment, helped pull her out of what could have been an introspective funk. The smile grew a little coy as she followed up with, "I remember that suit."

Felicity, who had been in the middle of a tasty sip of her whiskey, almost choked on it. She coughed enthusiastically, her eyes watering with the effort and sting of the alcohol going down the absolute wrong pipe. "What!?"

Her hand was splayed on her chest as she tried to compose herself. The colour was rising to her cheeks with a speed she hadn't realised possible. "No, Your Honor. I mean - yes, he is very easy on the eyes," she gestured toward Peter. And as though suddenly remembering he was still there, a whole new wave of embarrassment washed over her. Standing there talking about him like that was not acceptable.

She sucked in a breath, her throat and chest on fire from the accidental whiskey inhalation, and attempted to fix the situation. "There wouldn't be any rebound, honestly. Nothing ever happened between Hawke and I."

"Darling, that is not how it looked the last time I was here."

Felicity turned and speared her mother with a warning look, which Antoinette ignored and pressed on. "Speaking of the Commander, where is he this evening?"

"I hope for his sake that he's far away from here."

"You're welcome", he smiled back at her. When she commented she remembered that suit he looked down on himself before glancing back at her, one of his boyish grins tugging at his lips. "Do you?", he smirked. He had noticed back then that she had enjoyed seeing the suit on him, so he went for the same again.
When Felicity choked on her drink Peter rested a hand on her shoulder in alarm but luckily she seemed to recover of her own. The old lady commented him being easy on the eyes and Felicity confirmed that - it felt good.

"My name is Peter", he introduced himself to the old lady. "A pleasure to meet you, your honor." He wasn't sure why she was referring to the old lady like this. Then he assumed the lady might be mentally ill and be one of Felicity's patients. She probably wanted her to refer to her like that, so Peter went with it.

He then followed the conversation as the ladies mentioned that Hawke again and that there was something between Felicity and the Commander. Peter's brows furrowed the slightest bit. So that Cmdr. Hawke was here? And what was Felicity's past with him?

"Is he invited?", Peter asked Felicity, casually though ne watched her attentively.

[Fells Halgerdur]

[Apartment- Puzzles]

After 30 minutes Fells just about had it. Leas mother was killing every attempt of him educating and not spoiling Ari and at the same time dishing out well meant advice.
"Hey, I think I'm going to join Lea at the party."
He announced, very quickly got dressed and sashed out the house.

He took a moment to walk a few extra blocks before he went to the party, which was totally what he expected....noisy, stuffy, too many people and the whole ordeal.
Nevertheless he tried to put on a neutral face and look for Lea in the crowd.

[Judith Eastman]

[Starbase Columbus - Puzzles]

"You're welcome", he smiled back at her. When she commented she remembered that suit he looked down on himself before glancing back at her, one of his boyish grins tugging at his lips. "Do you?", he smirked. He had noticed back then that she had enjoyed seeing the suit on him, so he went for the same again.

When Felicity choked on her drink Peter rested a hand on her shoulder in alarm but luckily she seemed to recover of her own. The old lady commented him being easy on the eyes and Felicity confirmed that - it felt good.

"My name is Peter", he introduced himself to the old lady. "A pleasure to meet you, your honor." He wasn't sure why she was referring to the old lady like this. Then he assumed the lady might be mentally ill and be one of Felicity's patients. She probably wanted her to refer to her like that, so Peter went with it.

He then followed the conversation as the ladies mentioned that Hawke again and that there was something between Felicity and the Commander. Peter's brows furrowed the slightest bit. So that Cmdr. Hawke was here? And what was Felicity's past with him?

"Is he invited?", Peter asked Felicity, casually though ne watched her attentively.

[Dr. Antoinette Ellis & Felicity Ellis - Puzzles]

Felicity returned Peter's look, her brows raised with some surprise. "Thanks," she murmured back, a smile curving her mouth. She didn't feel amazing, but somehow his presence, along with the kind compliment, helped pull her out of what could have been an introspective funk. The smile grew a little coy as she followed up with, "I remember that suit."

Felicity, who had been in the middle of a tasty sip of her whiskey, almost choked on it. She coughed enthusiastically, her eyes watering with the effort and sting of the alcohol going down the absolute wrong pipe. "What!?"

Her hand was splayed on her chest as she tried to compose herself. The colour was rising to her cheeks with a speed she hadn't realised possible. "No, Your Honor. I mean - yes, he is very easy on the eyes," she gestured toward Peter. And as though suddenly remembering he was still there, a whole new wave of embarrassment washed over her. Standing there talking about him like that was not acceptable.

She sucked in a breath, her throat and chest on fire from the accidental whiskey inhalation, and attempted to fix the situation. "There wouldn't be any rebound, honestly. Nothing ever happened between Hawke and I."

"Darling, that is not how it looked the last time I was here."

Felicity turned and speared her mother with a warning look, which Antoinette ignored and pressed on. "Speaking of the Commander, where is he this evening?"

"I hope for his sake that he's far away from here."

[NPC - The Hon. Judge Estelle Roth (Ret.) - Puzzles]

Estelle extended a wizened old hand to shake that of the young man - Peter.
"Judge Estelle Roth," she introduced herself. "Retired, as it is. I take it you've already met Professor Eastman, Judith? She's my granddaughter, son."

Estelle was pretty sure she was the oldest human on the station, and she wanted to hammer that point home.

"Well, not rebound, if you say so, but what is it between you two? Just casual [spoiler]fucking[/spoiler], or more of a relationship?"

Estelle vaguely noted the woman about Judith's age who stood with Felicity, but she had her goals, her mission. She had to catch up with 6 or so months of Felicity Ellis, and all the details, societal convention be damned!

***

[Leanna - Puzzles]

Whilst she understood Max's protectiveness and gentle reminder about Judy's coffee intake, she didn't blame Judy for the comment about her Grandmother or Max's about everyone needing a Bomb Cyclone. " I think most of us are used to Estelle, Judy, all though I will admit, I didn't know whether to laugh or shake my head back there, but Bomb Cylone's should help" she replied as they neared the bar.

Getting the attention of Jack as Judy kept her included in the conversation, when she was asked about Estelle given Flick a possible escape. Looking briefly at the group they had just left, " Let's hope so, if not I'll think of something to distract Estelle, when I go back".

[Apartment- Puzzles]

After 30 minutes Fells just about had it. Leas mother was killing every attempt of him educating and not spoiling Ari and at the same time dishing out well meant advice.
"Hey, I think I'm going to join Lea at the party."
He announced, very quickly got dressed and sashed out the house.

He took a moment to walk a few extra blocks before he went to the party, which was totally what he expected....noisy, stuffy, too many people and the whole ordeal.
Nevertheless he tried to put on a neutral face and look for Lea in the crowd.

[Professor Emeritus Judith Eastman-Williams & Max Williams - Puzzles]

"The real way to distract my grandmother is to give her another victim," Judy observed philosophically. "Do something scandalous, say something outrageous. I can teach Max how to act out a heart attack."
Max chuckled at the wacky suggestion, but his gaze briefly wandered around the room. He came upon Fells, who looked like he was definitely trying, and also searching. Max understood that feeling - he himself could only really appreciate these events with Judy at his side.
"Lea, it looks like someone is looking for you," he told his longtime friend and boss, pointing out her boyfriend. "We can take care of the drinks."

Max had a feeling that Fells needed Lea just like he needed Judy, but at the same time, he knew that the genteel Academic and the blunt security man were not the best combination. They had conflicting styles and personalities, and not much common ground. This was the way to go.

[Aryn Corliss]

[Hot Candy - Puzzles]

Candy patted Doug's hand on her arm when he reached out to steady himself against her. When they very quickly encountered a pair of El-Aurians, she was quick to introduce herself. "It's lovely to make your acquaintance!" She enthused. "My name is Candy, Candy Barr. I'm a friend of Dougie's here." She patted his hand again, but then began to extricate herself.

"I'll leave y'all to chat about El-Aurian matters. I'm just a pesky 'lil human, but it was really very nice to meet both of you."

[Dr. Dugris "Doug" Zaman - Puzzles]

"Don't wander too far, my lovely," Doug told Candy as he released her arm, and then kissed her cheek goodbye.

"Dugris Zaman, I go by Doug," the man then introduced himself. "Are the two of you from around here, or just visiting like myself?"

Doug pulled up a chair, for the benefit of his battered, tired knees. How many more of these bumps could he take?

[Puzzles]

Nice to meet you!
Nice to meet you, the El-Aurian couple echoed as the young woman left them.

Alec and Aryn procured chairs and also sat, making a small triangle of space between them and their countryman, as it were.

We live here, actually, Aryn began. I'm Aryn Corliss, lieutenant in Starfleet and Chief of Operations of this station.

And I'm Alec Trenzal, husband to Aryn and civilian doctor in the station's infirmary. Welcome aboard. What brings you here? Are you acquainted with the happy couple? Alec gestured toward Greg and Brooke.