Catching Up

Posted on Wed Dec 11th, 2019 @ 5:15pm by Brigadier General Kaden Ross & Liam O'Connor

915 words; about a 5 minute read

Mission: Episode 101 - Peace During War
Location: Kitty O'Shea's
Timeline: MD3, 1000 hrs

Kaden was walking on the promenade after finishing his duties early it had been a slow day strangely but it was nice getting work caught up. He passed by Kitty O'Shea's before realizing he hadn't dropped in to see Liam since the attack in the shelter. The man owed his newfound friend a drink for helping Freya as well. Walking inside Kaden took a seat at the bar setting his briefcase and coffee mug on the counter.

“...you got everything,” Kitty O’Shea asked as she followed Liam into the bar. To those that knew her well, it was clear to hear the sadness in her voice. It was in stark contrast to her normal flamboyance.

“Yes, I’m sure,” Liam commented with an eye roll. “I always pack light. Old habi - Kaden! You must be a mind reader, I was about to come see you!”

He dropped his frayed kit bag on a bar stool and went to join his friend at the bar. “Last couple of days have been insane. Wait, there is someone I want you to meet,” patting Kaden on the shoulder he hurried back to the living area in the back, carrying a baby carrier. Carefully he set it down on the bar, the tiny infant inside fast asleep and swaddled in a pale blue blanket.

“Meet Joshua,” Liam grinned, “my son.”

Kaden looked at the baby then at Liam then at the baby again. "Well, I see you been busy since the last I saw you in the shelter during the attack." He teased as he studied the baby.

“I wish,” Liam sighed. “His mother, we went on a couple of dates, nothing serious or anything. I didn’t do relationships back then. And then she just showed up, cool and calm and was like, congratulations you’re a dad! Dr Hades checked him over and he is my boy. Better than perfect I think. Sleeps like me too.”

“Hope he doesn’t snore like you,” Kitty piped up drily as she set two glasses on the bar, pouring them each a drink. “You have a ship to be on Liam but it’s tradition to wet the baby’s head, so I think a quick drink is quite alright.”

Liam sat next to Kaden, “that was the other reason. Joshua’a mom is from Sydney and she has no interest at all in living so far from home or her family. I’m going back with them. Try to make something work. Be a dad. Carolyn arranged us transport aboard her grandmother’s ship. But it leaves, today. In like thirty minutes.”

“I’ve loved being here, meeting you, being with Kitty and Jimmy and all the rag tag bunch of regulars. Carolyn... I’ve even appreciated the chance to be useful again. I was lost after my medical discharge. Marines were my life, you know? But Carolyn is right and I have to think of what is right not just for me, but this little one. Gonna miss you all. So, cheers?”

He raised his glass, hoping perhaps for some understanding if not approval of his decision.

Kaden was shocked he knew he been busy with his new role as the new XO of the Division. But he hated to see the first friend he made here up and go. "Liam, I...didn't think this be the last I see you." He looked at his drink. "I had so much to share hoping to catch up even thank you for watching out for my wife."

“No thanks necessary,” Liam assured him as he took a drink, “as I recall you were busy watching out for everyone else. And if you ever need to talk, just call.”

Kaden looked at Liam before he offered him a smile. "I can't blame you for heading to a place more suitable to look after your boy." He took a drink of his glass. "But I will certainly call and write you."

“Do that,” Liam grinned as he drained his glass. “And I know my family here is safe with you all around to watch over them. Who knows, maybe I’ll come visit now and then. But for now, I gotta get this little guy to the ship. Make sure you watch your six and look after that lady of yours, okay?”

Kaden gave Liam a hug. "I'll miss you, my friend, rest assured I will keep an eye on Kitty and the others here for you."

“Appreciate that,” Liam smiled, reaching over and lifting the baby carrier. He glanced over his shoulder as his uncle picked up his kit bag, flashing Kaden a grin, “that’s the sign it’s time to ship out. There is a bottle of your favourite behind the bar, in case you ever feel a need.”

He took a deep breath, looking around the bar but avoiding his aunt. He had done that goodbye. Twice.

“Let’s go son, before she starts wailing like a banshee,” Jimmy said, putting a hand on Liam’s shoulder.

Liam nodded. “Until next time,” Liam said. “Have another drink on me then go spend some time with your lady.”

Kaden almost wanted to stop Liam he was a good friend and part of him didn't him want to go. But he understood his reasons and not saying a word just waved him farewell. Until he heard Kitty start wailing next to him causing him to groan in agony.

RSS Feed