Chapter 9

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Milky Way/Omega System

Earth year: 2183 CE --- April

Liara paced on the bridge of the ship Cerberus had provided her and Feron. She didn't like the arrangement she had with the pro-human group, but the idea, the hope that they could truly bring Shepard back outweighed any misgivings she might have had.

"How long before we reach the Shadow Broker's base?" Liara asked Feron for the fifth time in two days.

"Look T'Soni," Feron said, exasperated by Liara's behaviour. "We'll get there when we get there. I understand you want this finished. I even understand your urgency. But I assure you, we have time. The Collectors aren't due to rendezvous with the Shadow Broker for several days, but if you insist on continuing to ask me the same question every hour, I suggest you drive."

Liara opened her mouth to bark out a retort, but could think of nothing. He was right and that made it worse. She was being unreasonable and ridiculous. It was impossible to get there any faster and the more she asked, the more anxious she became. It wouldn't help anyone if she and Feron were at each other's throats by the time they reached their destination.

Sinking into the co-pilot chair, she sighed heavily, her eyes coming to rest on her hands held loosely in her lap.

"You're right Feron." She said, fed up with herself. "I'm sorry. I just wish I didn't have to do this."

"Not to be insensitive, but which part of "this" are you referring to?" Feron asked, watching her with interest. "Working with me? Working with Cerberus and using their resources? Or breaking into the Shadow Broker's base?"

"All of it." She said, meeting his gaze. "Although I suppose working with you isn't on the list."

"Really?" Feron was surprised. "And why not? I thought you didn't like me."

Liara smiled. "I didn't like you. You're secretive, evasive and you work for the Shadow Broker."

"So what's changed?"

"Honestly? I'm not sure. You're very good at your job. Smart, resourceful and..."

"And?"

"Kind. Considerate. And you've been very patient with me." She said, looking away from his penetrating black eyes. She'd never met a drell before, but she found the race fascinating. She also very much envied their ability to slip into and relive any memory as though it were happening at that very moment. What she wouldn't give to be able to do that with her memories of Shepard.

Feron noted the change in the asari almost immediately. "Something wrong Liara?"

"No. I was just thinking about Shepard and how I envy your uh... what did you call it again?"

"You mean the drell ability to slip into memory as though it were real?"

Liara nodded.

"I called it Solipsism."

Solipsism. Liara rolled the word over her tongue as though it were a piece of sweet candy melting in her mouth.

Feron watched Liara's features soften with interest. Whoever Shepard had been to her, Liara had cared about her deeply.

"Pardon my intrusion," he began, his curiosity getting the better of him. "But were you and Shepard close?"

Liara's brow furrowed as she dropped her feelings behind a mask. Giving him her full gaze, he saw a coolness there which he hadn't noticed a moment ago.

"We were friends." She said, her voice tight.

"I see." Feron said deciding to choose his next words carefully. "How long did you know her?"

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