"Drabble: Not Like This" by Rowan

Date: Mon, 31 July 2000

~ Not like this by Rowan

It shouldn't be like this.

Sam shifted uncomfortably.

Not with him strapped to a chair. Before an audience. Before he's ready. And under interrogation by a species he doesn't trust.

"Like someone who was about to die." Still evasive.

She watched the display.

"Sir." The word stuck in her throat. She hated having to push him, but they had to do this. The alternative was unacceptable.

His voice was quiet and even.

"I didn't leave because I'd've rather died myself than lose Carter."

She closed her eyes briefly, awash in a poignant mixture of pain and joy.

Not like this.

The End