No Man Is An Island

Chapter 1: The Sendoff

"I really, really don't like this." Steven grumbled.

Connie, and the gems occupied the dining room table in the temple kitchen.

Connie sat indignantly, crossing her arms and scowling at him. "Steven, I can handle myself. I've been training with Pearl so long that I could easily disarm and mutilate someone with a plastic spoon and a toothpick."

"She's right," Garnet said, adjusting her visor. "She'll be fine. She is more than capable of scouting out this island."

Pearl nodded in agreement. "Steven, you have to remember that we already scouted it and saw nothing dangerous. Connie is just going to make sure it stayed that way."

Amethyst burped and nudged a grumpy Steven playfully. "Come on, dude! Lighten up! You remember how Connie helped defeat Jasper? And those weird gem experiments? And Blue Diamond?"

"But that's just the thing!" Steven exclaimed. "I was always there!" He simpered and turned to Connie, pulling out his Universe charm. "Connie, what about always doing this together? What about all of our training? Jam Buds?"

Connie sighed, setting down her bag and cupping his face. "Steven. I want to do this. I have to do this. I know you're worried about me. But I will come home to you, I promise. Please let me do this, Biscuit." Steven groaned when he saw her pull puppy dog eyes and poke out her lip. He nodded and she gave a joyous laugh. "I won't let you down, Steven."

Steven's breaths were coming in short bursts but he managed a small smile. "One more hug?" He pulled her in and squeezed her tight, nuzzling into her neck and breathing deeply. Connie pulled away first to give him a deep, promising kiss. For a moment in time, everything felt okay.

But then he blinked. And he was sitting on the couch, waiting for his Berry to come home to him again.

A/N: Shout out to caramelle222 for sending me this incredible idea!

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