Fic: Starting Over series

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Title: Starting Over series
Author: angelic_mand
Pairing: Weir/Teyla, implied Sheppard/McKay
Rating: PG?
Recipient: ladydewinter
Spoilers: Various spoilers for the second season.
A/N: Thank you Dawn for the wonderful beta.

Starting Over series

Chapter One: How About That?

Summary: "It's human nature to be afraid, Teyla. You haven't changed, you're still the same person you were before discovering the truth, but sometimes, as human beings, we aren't that understanding. We're all afraid of the unknown."

Scene: Corridors

Teyla continued to sprint down the empty corridors of the South pier; her eyes remained shut as she quickened her pace, oblivious to the collocation course straight ahead, until it was too late and she collided head-on with another being.

Teyla's ass hit the ground hard and her eyes shot open, also lying on her ass was Novak. Color flamed into Novak's face; she quickly stood up, her head lowered, as she began stumbling over her words, music continued blaring out of her dark-blue headphones. "I...I'm... *hic*... s-so-so-so... *hic*... (Teyla bit her lower lip to prevent her laughter from escaping) sorry... *hic*."

With that, Novak ran off in the opposite direction, only to stumble over her feet, landing flat on her face.

Suddenly, the corridor erupted with laugher, and again color flamed into Novak's face. Teyla's head crocked in the direction of the laughter. Her eyebrow rose, mirth spreading through her at the unexpected culprit-Elizabeth Weir.

Elizabeth's hands shot up as she noted Teyla's look, her eyes traveled past the Athosian to Lindsey, who had now disappeared around the corner.

"I'm sorry Teyla, that couldn't be helped," she said, walking towards the younger woman, before offering her a hand. "I don't think I've ever seen anyone run so fast. Of course, it doesn't help when you both run with your eyes closed, unless, of course, that was your intention," she said, somewhat teasingly as she pulled the younger woman up.

Teyla darkened, taking a few steps back. "I find it rather therapeutic."

Elizabeth's eyebrow arched. "You find it therapeutic bumping into people?"

"Until today, my record has been perfect."

"And yet, you still managed to bump into Novak, of all people."

A smirk began tugging at the corner of Teyla's lips as she replied, "It could have been worse. I could have bumped into Colonel Caldwell."

Elizabeth laughed. "True. But instead you bumped into a woman, whom, if the rumors are anything to go by, is very much scared of you. (Elizabeth raised her hands). I don't take notice of rumors...much. And I'm pretty certain that if you actually attended one of the poker nights, she'll see that you're really not that scary." Amusement surfaced as a mirthful smile began forming at the corner of Elizabeth's lips, and she added. "And it's a real wonder how you haven't ended up in the Guinness Book of Records with such a flawless and therapeutic record."

A half smiled formed on Teyla's lips as she ducked her head, slightly tilting it in the diplomat's direction; amusement surfaced into her voice as she replied, "Unfortunately, we do not have one of those. What with the Wraith around and very much awake, the life expectancy is not that long. Had they not awoken, I can grantee you that the life expectancy would be much higher and we too would have a 'Guinness Book of Records'...possibly."

The diplomat couldn't help laughing.

"Although, they themselves might make it into the great book."

A perplexed look graced Teyla's features. "That been said...they would actually seep the life out of everyone they meet, so there would not be any book of any kind."

The smile finally broke out on Elizabeth's lips. "And I'm sure that you've learnt a valuable lesson about running with your eyes closed."

The Athosian gazed at the older woman. "Yes, I have."

Elizabeth eyebrow rose questioningly. "Which is?"

A smirk began to tug at the corners of Teyla's lips, "That neither Novak nor yourself will be here tonight, which means I will not bump into another person, so I am free to sprint with my eyes closed."

"Until you bump into another person," she said matter-of-factly.

Finally the smirk broke out. "That is not going to happen."

Elizabeth brow creased. "And you know this for a fact?"

"As I said, before today my record had been flawless."

Mirth graced Elizabeth's features. "Smartass," she muttered.

Teyla looked at Elizabeth innocently. "And just what is it that makes me a 'smartass'?"

Elizabeth darkened.

"Well?"

She opened her mouth to speak.

"I was not meant to hear that, was I?" Teyla continued, "Of course not. Otherwise you would not have muttered it," she stated smugly.

Elizabeth couldn't help being surprised at Teyla's smugness as she held Teyla's mirthful look. "You wanna know what makes you a smartass? Answers like that. I bet you think you're real cute and funny with all these comeback answers."

Teyla crocked her head, her mirthful smile widening. "Well, I have been told by numerous people; although I do believe that they were being rather polite...Some say I have been spending too much time with the Major and Doctor McKay."

Elizabeth laughed, "And it's beginning to show."

Teyla again tugged at her ponytail, this time loosening it, allowing her hair to fall down, as she briefly shook her head from side-to-side.

Elizabeth couldn't help but stare in admiration.

All Teyla now needed to do was re-enact the shower scenes and she'd look like one of those women from the 'Herbal Essences' commercials. No doubt advertising 'Summer Fruits'.

"My hair could do with a wash." Teyla admitted sheepishly after noting the way Elizabeth looked at her.

Elizabeth darkened further. "Oh, I wasn't implying-"

A smile began to form at the corner of Teyla's lips. "I was planning to wash it after my morning jog, and I was wondering..." Teyla licked her bottom lip, nervously, "if you would not mind lending me your hairdryer?"

Elizabeth's eyebrow rose again. "My hairdryer?" she reiterated Teyla's words questioningly. "Well, if I had my hairdryer, then you could borrow it, but it appears that my hairdryer spouted legs and danced off, because I can't seem to find it," she smirked, "I wouldn't be surprised if John had it. He's such a metrosexual (Teyla glanced at her in confusion). You should ask Doctor Heightmeyer, she'll be happy to lend you hers."

For some reason, this made Teyla blush.

Elizabeth noted this. "I'll tell you what," she began, wearing a warm smile, "I'll ask Kate, if you do me a favor."

Teyla's eyebrow rose inquisitively. "What kind of favor?"

Elizabeth smiled slyly. "Would you say you're a summer or fall...autumn, person?"

Teyla looked questioningly at her, before repeating her previous words: "What kind of favor?"

Elizabeth gazed at the younger woman briefly. Yes, Teyla definitely struck her as a summer person. "Never mind, you definitely strike me as a summer person."

An amused smile curved Teyla's lips as she replied. "I am an all season's person."

A small smirk began forming on the corner of Elizabeth's lips. Okay, I stand corrected, she thought.

"I love everything about spring, summer, fall, as your people put it, and winter. But how can you not love the seasons? What is not to love? Every year, we have a festival to celebrate the arrival of spring. Spring brings new life and hope. Summer is more of a fun season: the children gather together in small groups and compete to see who can gather the most fruit. I have always loved autumn, ever since I was a child. The way the leaves change color and fall from the branches...I could sit for hours watching the colors change...and the way the leaves crunch under your feet..." She wore a half smile, becoming distant as she recalled a childhood memory. "I loved gathering leaves, raking them into huge piles and then jumping into them. I used compete against Halling, Leetna and Haron; I may have been the youngest, but I was the fastest. We would always rake the piles of leaves towards the far end, then walk towards the second tree and have a race and whoever won got to jump into the piles, whilst the person who lost...ended up raking all the leaves together again. Winter is similar to autumn in the sense that the snow crunches underneath your feet, whether you are just walking, running, or even dragging your feet...I loved, and still love, the sound. As a child, I loved the way the snow stuck to my clothing and hair and then, then there were the snowball fights...I was always a target, and to this day I could not tell you why that was. Winter may have always been hard for us, but the snow made the season magical."

"I'm more of fall person, myself." Elizabeth laughed, lightly. "How are you coping? Really coping?" she asked suddenly. "Truth be told, I haven't had the time to ask, not properly."

Teyla looked at her slightly startled by her question. "I am fine. Why wouldn't I be?"

Elizabeth held her gaze. "I didn't mean for it to come across as an interrogation," she replied softly. "It's just with recent events..."

Elizabeth trailed off as she watched Teyla slump against the walls.

Concern and confusion surfaced over her.

"Which event would that be?" she asked, with a hint of humor in her voice. Elizabeth walked towards her, sitting down, as she continued, "The majority of my people turning their backs on me since discovering the truth about my gift? A Wraith gaining control over me? Twice within one afternoon, may I add? Or discovering that I have some Wraith DNA?" she smiled faintly. "So many choices, so pick your poison."

Elizabeth smiled wearily. "Ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer," she muttered, holding Teyla's gaze. "It's human nature to be afraid, Teyla. You haven't changed, you're still the same person you were before discovering the truth, but sometimes, as human beings, we aren't that understanding. We're all afraid of the unknown. Your people will come around, it'll just take them time to adjust," she replied softly. "They're afraid to understand, afraid to try, because then it'll mean discovering more about the Wraith, possibly more than they want to."

"I hope so. Do not get me wrong, I had always known that once they discovered the truth, they would fear me, but I had always hoped..." Teyla smiled faintly. "It sounds ridiculous; I'll grant you that, but..."

"It doesn't sound ridiculous. Again, it's human nature to want and hope."

Teyla sighed. "How are things with you?" she asked, the tables suddenly turning.

Again confusion graced Elizabeth's features. "Excuse me?"

Teyla smiled, faintly. "Well, you have enquired about me, now it is only fair that I do the same. How are things, really?"

Elizabeth fiddled with her hands, clearly Teyla wanted to drop the subject, and of course, she couldn't help feeling guilty.

Of course, Teyla wouldn't want to talk to her, why would she? They barely knew each other outside of work, they would mainly talk during briefings or debriefings it was rare for them to speak outside of work-related matters.

Elizabeth hardly knew Teyla at all- be it on a personal or professional level.

Ironic, considering how they'd resided in the city for a little over a year now, and she still hadn't stuck to her promise of getting to know Teyla and her people.

And yet, here they both were in one of those "rare moments". She could feel Teyla's gaze, no doubt waiting for an answer, and the least she could do was grace the younger woman with a reply. "Fine," she said, raising her head. "Granted, things could be better, but they could be worse."

She surprised herself at her own openness. But in order to form a relationship of any kind, honesty and trust have to be two of the main fundamentals, otherwise there really isn't any point in forming friendships or relationships.

"You must be looking forward to tomorrow, finally returning to Earth to visit loved ones?"

Elizabeth chuckled. "Nineteen days on the Daedalus, listening to Sheppard and McKay bicker like schoolchildren. Honestly, half of the time they act like a married old couple," she sighed, her head lowered, before adding, "Had you, Rodney, or John died during the siege, I honestly don't know what we'd've done."

Teyla's eyebrow arched. "Well, Doctor McKay would have no doubt confused them with his science 'babble' as Major Sheppard puts it, but as for Major Sheppard? Well..." a small smirk began to form at the corners of her lips, amusement surfaced into her voice, "his hair is rather dangerous by itself, would you not agree?"

Elizabeth laughed, tilting her head in the Athosian's direction. "I think we're all aware of the hair."

"Had a Wraith actually killed me, Major Sheppard would not have been happy; after all, he did promise me a ride on the Ferris wheel, tickets to see a Boston College football match, and more popcorn and beer," she grimaced. "However, after watching the same football over and over again..." She held Elizabeth's amused look. "It becomes tiring. I do not know how Major Sheppard and Aiden could continue to watch the same game over and over again."

Elizabeth smirked as she spoke, "When it's football...or any type of sport, as long as their team wins, then John, Aiden, and the rest of the men will watch the match over and over again. To them, a victory is worth celebrating over and over again, even if it is the same game. But, men love to explain the game of football, basketball, soccer, baseball..." an inexplicable smile formed on the diplomat's lips. "Between you and me, John would make a lousy tour guide."

"Is that a fact?" Teyla asked, rising her eyebrow.

Elizabeth gazed at her, wearing a real smile, before replying matter-of-factly, "Yes. And do you know what else? I'd make a much better tour guide, not to mention the fact that we could go shopping for hours on end or every day, if you'd like, because unlike John, I wouldn't mind."

Teyla's eyes twinkled as a full smile blossomed on her lips. "I would like that, but it is a shame that I am not going, with you."

"Yes, it is. And the next time we go, you're coming with us, and as for Caldwell? I'll deal with him. And wait until you've tried Indian, Chinese, or Italian food-it's sensational, although, some of the best places to try some of these dishes are in their homeland. Before visiting places such as India and Africa, I knew enough, or at least I thought I did, but when I actually visited these countries I was in for a cultural shock and I didn't know what had hit me until weeks later. What I thought I knew about Africa and India...I had barely scratched the surface," she brought her hands forward, "I'd always seen the commercials, whether it was for Red Cross, World Aid, or any other organization, and I'd always contributed, but it wasn't until I witnessed the actual deviation or the poverty for myself, that I realized how fortunate I've been. How fortunate the richer countries are. You see, on Earth, the countries are divided-you've got the rich, developed, and advanced countries such as the US, Britain, France, Canada...and then there's the third world counties, such as Africa and India, who aren't so fortunate. Africa and India, particularly Africa, are deprived of money, technology, food- the basic essentials we need to survive," she closed her eyes, briefly, "In the third world countries, if you're born poor, you'll remain poor, if you're born rich, you'll remain rich, there's no in-between. But the irony is that the third world countries are so rich in culture. For each holy event, the rich and poor come together as one and celebrate for that particular night, there is no divide, they're brought together as one, and it's a rarity. It's events like these that no amount of money can buy."

Color flamed into Elizabeth's face. "Look at me! Here I am, rambling about sports one minute and culture the next."

Teyla smiled, but it wasn't one of her usual friendly smiles or her shy one, it was one of those rare ones, and Elizabeth couldn't help being taken aback. "Cultural inheritance is something to be proud of. I am proud and honored of my cultural upbringing."

Elizabeth returned a wide smile as she replied, "It shows."

A broad smile broke out on Teyla's lips as Elizabeth continued. "Your daily routine for one: each morning and night you light two candles-one for your mother and the other for your father, along with a prayer. The same candles are lit until they burnout, then you move onto the next one."

Teyla's eyebrow rose questioningly. "And you know this, how?" It wasn't interrogation, more curiosity if anything.

"Teyla, didn't you know that I'm your personal stalker?"

Perplexity graced the Athosian; Elizabeth blushed in embarrassment and she flicked her hand, dismissing the subject, "Never mind. Not many people understand my humor."

Surprise washed over Teyla. "Oh, that was a joke? I did not understand it, but that been said, it did not sound like one," she admitted sheepishly.

Elizabeth ducked her head, color flaming into her face.

"My father was like you, he did not seem to be very amusing, for his sense of humor was rather dry, kind of like yours."

Elizabeth was surprised at Teyla's openness, but she wasn't surprised at her bluntness. A mirthful smile began tugging at the corner of Elizabeth's lips, she crocked her head in the younger woman's direction, "Okay, I'll admit my humor could a bit of tuning, but-"

Teyla's eyebrow rose and she tried her best to hide her amusement, but ultimately failed. "A bit?"

Elizabeth laughed, "And what do you mean by that? I'll have you know that I can be a very funny woman at times. Now, I know that's hard for you to comprehend, but I am funny- granted I'm not as hilarious as the bickering duo. But I do have moments."

Teyla ducked her head, hair falling into her face as she tried to hide her amusement again and failing, as her body began shaking as she laughed silently.

Elizabeth noted this. "Careful, Teyla, you might split your sides from all that laughter."

Teyla stopped abruptly, again confusion surfaced, but before she could comment, Elizabeth added, "Fugitively speaking that is."

Still failing to understand the meaning, Teyla closed her eyes, forming a silent 'Oh'.

"Teyla?"

"Mmm?"

Elizabeth hesitated, before replying, "It doesn't matter."

She opened her eyes, crocking her head in the diplomat's direction, "If it did not matter, then you would not have said anything."

Elizabeth smirked, holding Teyla's gaze, "Smartass."

Teyla grinned. "It is in my genes," she teased.

Elizabeth lowered her head, locking her fingers together, as she inclined her head slightly in the Athosian's direction. "The next time we revisit Earth, I would like for you to come with us," she said, watching as Teyla ran the tip of her tongue over her lips. Her eyes widened a fraction, and she couldn't help wondering what it would be like to kiss those lips, to taste and feel them against her own.

A sharp, shaky intake of breath escaped Elizabeth's lips, her eyes shut, shaking her head, she became lost in her thoughts; this was not what she wanted. Teyla wasn't who she wanted, Simon was the one she wanted, the one she could picture her life with, the one who had waited for for over a year, for her return and now, now she'd be able to see him, familiarize herself with his scent, his touch, his lips, his smile, his cooking....

A soft, electrifying touch startled her.

"Sorry, I did not mean to startle you," came the soft reply.

Elizabeth licked her bottom lip, her eyes remained closed as spoke, "I would like for you to be my guest," she paused. "The next time we revisit Earth, I would like for you to be my guest."

She heard movement, but thought nothing of it until she felt Teyla's forehead against hers; she froze and again her throat dried up. This was the first time she'd had the official Athosian blessing and acknowledgement of friendship. And yet, here she was, finding herself with feelings, feelings that she shouldn't have.

"I would like that," Teyla murmured, her warm breath drifting over Elizabeth's face. "Of course, I would like for both Major Sheppard and yourself to be my tour guide...as you put it," she said, before pulling back.

Elizabeth's eyes shot open, confusion surfacing at her own feelings. This isn't right, she thought frantically. I'm finally going to see Simon and he'll be coming with me and-

"He could take me to a football game," Teyla continued, interrupting Elizabeth's thoughts. "He could take both of us to the football game and you could take-"

"I love basketball," she said, trying to block her train of thoughts.

Another silent 'Oh' formed on the Athosian's lips.

"I mean I love chess and poker, but...as a child, my father used to take me to all the LA Lakers games," she snorted softly, "before the whole divorce happened, and then after that I resided in Boston until I was eighteen."

"So, what is basketball, exactly?"

Elizabeth broke out into a grin. "I'll show you."

"Now?" she asked, gazing at the older woman in bewilderment.

Elizabeth laughed, "Once we've got a basketball hoop...and a basketball. I could teach you, granted that I'm not six-foot-something, but I used to play every Sunday night with my father...until the divorce, obviously. But first I think we ought to show you a few games, and believe me when I say that basketball is waaay better than football."

Teyla's eyebrow rose. "Major Sheppard would beg to differ, as would others, no doubt."

"Yes, well he would, wouldn't he? Perhaps when we come back, we ought to have a challenge and see which sport really is the best, although we both know which sport it is," she said as she winked.

Teyla stood up, offering her hand, but Elizabeth hesitated before taking the younger woman's hand, and again a jolt of electricity sped through her.

Elizabeth felt the sudden rush of heat and immediately ducked her head. Teyla noted this. "Have I done something to offend you?" she asked hesitantly.

The diplomat raised her head, "No. I'm sorry, Teyla. I was just thinking about...tomorrow," she lied, "You didn't offend me."

Teyla gazed at her, searchingly.

"Honestly," Elizabeth added, "You didn't say anything wrong."

She watched as relief surfaced over the younger woman.

"Just be careful when you're off-world with Lorne's team," she said, squeezing Teyla's hand, surprising herself and startling Teyla in the process, as she tried ignoring the electrifying reaction.

Confusion graced Teyla's features, "From whom? Aiden?"

"Aiden isn't Aiden. He isn't the same person anymore. You yourself witnessed his behavior, he could have killed Beckett."

"But he didn't. And in case you had forgotten, that was the enzyme, it was not Aiden."

Elizabeth sighed as she rubbed her brow. "Don't make me out to be the bad guy. Can't you see? He could have killed Beckett, and that's my point. He's addicted to the enzyme and-"

"Aiden truly believes that we are afraid of him, and you are afraid of him." It wasn't a question, it was a fact.

Elizabeth held Teyla's anguished gaze. "I'm afraid of what he'll do. I'm afraid of what the consequences will be as a result of his actions. Like you said, he thinks we're all afraid of him, and with that thought who knows what he might do. I'm only asking one thing from you, Teyla and that's to be on your guard. But apparently that's too much to ask for." Frustration and anger surfaced in her voice.

"You are avoiding my question." Teyla stated, her stern gaze matching her voice.

"I'm not avoiding your question."

Elizabeth couldn't help feeling like she was being interrogated by the school principal.

"And I trust Aiden." Teyla continued as if Elizabeth hadn't just interrupted her.

"Unlike me, you mean?" she asked, sighing. "He has changed, and as I said, I'm afraid of what he'll do. What if he shows up on one of the missions, that you and Major Lorne team happened to be on? Say Aiden was to attack you? Then what? Do I just leave it at that? Blow it off and think: 'Oh it's only Aiden; he had no control over his actions and therefore, he's not at fault?' Am I really supposed to be that blasé?" Anguish began to surface into her voice. "I understand that you trust Aiden and that you'd trust him with your life, and I admire the amount of trust and faith you're putting in him, but you witnessed for yourself the drastic change in his behavior. What's to stop him from doing it again? He isn't Aiden...not fully, and the next time you see him...I'm afraid of what he'll do. And I didn't come here to start a fight, clearly we see things differently, you don't think he'll harm you, whereas I disagree and yes, I am afraid! I'm afraid that he'll harm my people or you...and if that makes me out to be the bad guy, then so be it."

Teyla closed her eyes, briefly; clearly, this was one battle she was not going to win. "I'm touched by your concern."

"My concern isn't for you." Hurt flashed through the Athosian's eyes. "At least not just for you." Elizabeth amended. "I'm concerned about what'll happen while we're not here. And yes, that happens to include Ford. "

"And I appreciate your concern, I truly do, but I would trust Aiden with my life...I am just sorry that you cannot seem to understand why."

Anguish mixed with annoyance washed over Elizabeth. "Teyla-"

"I should get going," she said, taking steps back. "I think it would be best if we were to agree to disagree," she stated, before spinning around and continuing with her morning jog.



Chapter Two: Foolish

Timeline: Intruder

Summary: How could she have been so foolish?



Scene: West pier, balcony

Elizabeth leaned further against the balcony, reflecting over the past month; on how she could have been so foolish-foolish to have expected him to wait, foolish to have believed that he actually loved her, foolish to have loved him, never doubting his choices, foolish for believing that their love could have survived this long, foolish for believing that he'd come to the Pegasus Galaxy, foolish for sending that message, telling him not to wait, when in reality she wanted him to wait, foolish for believing that he'd understand her decision, foolish for believing that she understood him, and foolish for believing that she truly knew him.

She ducked her head, rubbing her brow and let out a deep breath. "How could I have been so foolish?" she muttered.

She heard the doors open.

"May I join you?"

"Sure," she mumbled.

Teyla walked toward her, stopping at her left side.

Elizabeth raised her head. "I'm sorry you haven't found Aiden."

Teyla smiled faintly. "All is not lost. I am confident that we will find him and bring him back. I just hope we find him and that he has come to no harm."

"Me too," she uttered, closing her eyes. "About our last encounter..."

"Think nothing of it."

Elizabeth angled her head in the Athosian's direction, while her eyes slowly opened. "It wasn't meant to be offensive, nor did I want you to take it the wrong way. It's just..."

"You were concerned." Teyla said, reiterating Elizabeth's previous words. "I understand that, I truly do. I understand that you were doing your job, but as you continue to stand by your beliefs, I continue to stand by mine. And again, think nothing of it."

Elizabeth smiled slightly, Teyla squeezed her hand and like her previous encounters, electricity flowed through her.

"How are you?"

"Fine," she lied, holding the Athosian's concerned gaze.

She could feel Teyla's eyes studying her-not judging, but studying her. "Good news, about John's promotion," she added, changing the subject and the mood. Since when did it become a struggle to talk to Teyla?

From the corner of her eye, she witnessed Teyla light up. "Indeed, but he deserved it."

Elizabeth snorted, softly. "Caldwell and Landry begged to differ." She closed her eyes, silently cursing herself for her slip up.

"He will make it to full rank," Teyla said with reassurance.

"Yes, he will. Although, when he does, I hope to God he doesn't constantly remind us at every given moment," she replied, refocusing on the younger woman.

Teyla smirked in amusement. "He has reminded me several times, now."

Elizabeth arched her eyebrow questioningly.

"I purposely forget that he has been promoted and he..." she grinned, "he is like a child, constantly reminding me: 'Teyla, it's Lieutenant Colonel. You're as bad as McKay.'"

Elizabeth laughed, and grinned. "Without a doubt, Rodney's purposely forgetting too. Those two, as you know, love to wind each other up."

Teyla brought her hands toward, "It must have been nice, revisiting loved one."

"From what I recall, Carson did."

"And you?"

Elizabeth didn't reply; her gaze now turned to the pier.

"Forgive me for prying, but upon your return, you appeared different-disheartened, as if all your expectations had shattered," concern surfaced in her dark eyes. "And I was just wondering if you really are fine."

Elizabeth's lips twisted in uncertainty, "Sometimes," she said quietly, "things rarely go our way. And those close to us end up being the ones to betray us."

"I am sorry." Teyla said softly.

Elizabeth smiled weakly, "Yeah, me too."

Teyla gazed at her hesitantly before airing her uncertainty. "I am not sure if this is the right time to bring this up..."

Again Elizabeth arched her eyebrow, "And I know what you are thinking: if it not the right time, than why bring it up at all?" she looked at the older woman, sheepishly, "Honestly? I do not know, but perhaps it would ease your mind from recent events."

Confusion flooded the diplomat, as Teyla took her hand a broad grin blossomed on her lips. "Follow me."

"W-where are you taking me?" she asked, trying her best to ignore the spark.

"To the East pier," Teyla replied, leading them toward a transporter. "As you are aware," she said, stepping into the opening, she touched the screen and immediately the doors shut, only to reopen moments later, and they stepped out, "since installing the Zed-PM, reports about newly found discoveries continue to arise..." Without missing a beat, Teyla loosened her grip from the diplomat's, stalked off ahead, and continued, "And there is this one particular room which I believe you may find of particular interest."

Elizabeth arched an eyebrow in response, noting the mischief in the younger woman's voice. Teyla paused out the opened doors, inviting the older woman in. "I hope this isn't an experiment go awry," she said, stalking toward the Athosian.

Her eyes widened in surprise as she stepped inside and took in the view: two basketball hoops on either side, the basketball in the far corner.

Kavanagh, Radek, and Major Lorne continued their argument without taking notice of the two women. Teyla cleared her throat to alert them of their presence, and immediately the men stopped their bickering, color flaming into their faces.

Elizabeth walked around the room. "When did this happen?"

A wide grin blossomed on Teyla's lips. "While you were gone. And also," she strode toward the benches, unzipping the sports bag to reveal two yellow jerseys, "you said you were a fan of the LA Lakers," she stated, walking toward the dumbfounded diplomat and handing her the jersey.

Elizabeth shivered as Teyla's fingers brushed against hers; quickly her gaze fell onto her purple printed name and white-colored number eight. Her jaw dropped in surprise. "Since you did not mention a particular player...Maj... John," she corrected herself, "thought it would be best if it was personalized."

"I-I don't know what to say..."

Radek, Calvin, and Marcus glanced at each other before glancing at the Athosian, nodding before exiting.

Elizabeth's eyes flickered up in time to see smooth, golden brown flesh. The diplomat became dizzy, this was too much-Teyla was too much.

Teyla flashed a smile, before putting on her fitted, personalized jersey, stalking toward the far corner, picking up the basketball.

Elizabeth's jaw opened slightly, her voice caught in her throat.

Teyla began spinning the ball in her hand and there was no denying the Athosian's natural beauty.

Elizabeth closed her eyes, trying to block the image of the Athosian out of her mind.

"Doctor Weir, are you all right?"

Elizabeth smiled weakly, tingling at Teyla's concern-which was the last thing she needed. "F-fine," she replied, opening her eyes.

Teyla stood several feet away, wearing a broad smile, "Ready?"

Elizabeth eyebrow rose, her hands shot up. "Oh, n-n-no, I can't play, now."

Teyla threw her an amused glance, "Why not?"

"I have reports that-"

A smirk blossomed on Teyla's lips, "Are you afraid?"

"Excuse me?"

Teyla looked at her with a look of innocence, "You say," she threw the ball in Elizabeth's direction, the ball slammed against the ground hard, bouncing twice before Elizabeth picked it up, "that you want to play, so let's play."

Her eyebrow arched at the Athosian's chosen words. "Y-you've got to learn first."

"Then," Teyla grabbed the basketball from Elizabeth, as an inexplicable smile blossomed on her lips, "teach me," she said, her warm breath drifting across Elizabeth's face.

Elizabeth ducked her head, heat rushing toward her cheeks. "I...really should get going," she said, stalking toward the exit.

"Afraid of losing?" Teyla asked again, teasingly.

Elizabeth paused in her tracks, partially turning around, "No."

"Then prove it. Take me on..."

The diplomat's eyebrow rose at Teyla's chosen words. "Take you on?" she reiterated.

Teyla blushed and Elizabeth couldn't help looking at her in awe. "It sounded much better when Major Lorne said it," she stated.

"So you've been practicing?"

Teyla threw her a look of innocence, "Possibly."

Fully aware that this wasn't a smart move, Elizabeth replied, "Fine. I'll take you on."

Teyla broke out into a victorious grin.

She unzipped her jacket, tossing it aside. She tried to ignore the feeling of Teyla's eyes on her skin as she removed her top, replacing it with the yellow jersey.

She stalked toward the younger woman, "I'm going to kick your ass. I hope you know that."

"We will see," Teyla said, dribbling the basketball in her left hand.

"Why don't we raise the stakes?" Elizabeth asked, parting her feet at shoulder width.

Perplexity surfaced over Teyla, as she reiterated Elizabeth's words, "Raise the stakes?"

"A bet," Elizabeth replied sliding her feet left, in beat with the Athosian's.

"Oh," Teyla said, smirking as she dribbled the ball between her legs.

"You know I'm gonna kick your ass," Elizabeth said, taking metal notes.

Teyla began moving backwards, now dribbling the ball in her right hand. Elizabeth smirked, blocking the Athosian's path. Teyla looked at her, still dribbling the ball; an inexplicable smile blossomed on Elizabeth's lips as she waited for the right moment, before reaching for the ball in a side-to-side motion.

She flashed the awed Athosian a smile, before approach the basket slowly, dribbling the ball. "Watch and learn," she said, pausing six feet away from the basket.

She felt a sudden push as she hit the ground, she quickly rolled over. "That's known as cheating."

Teyla smiled smugly as she crouched over the diplomat's body, grabbing the ball. "All is fair in love and war, is it not?"

Elizabeth laughed, raising her head from the floor. "I was going to win."

"You do not know that," she pointed out, carelessly tossing the ball aside. It bounced for several moments before coming to a stop.

"Yes, I do and you know it. That's why you had to tackle me. This isn't rugby, you know," she said pointedly.

Teyla's eyebrow arched as she offered her hand, but Elizabeth shook her head; before taking her offer, she gazed searchingly at the younger woman.

Elizabeth's warm breath drifted across Teyla's face, her throat dried up as she stroked the younger woman's face; her skin was like velvet.

Confusion surfaced over the Athosian, "Doc..."

She claimed the younger woman's lips (Teyla's eyes widened) and like her skin, Teyla's lips felt velvety; she ran her tongue over Teyla's lips, capturing her bottom lip between her teeth, before gently nibbling.

After a brief moment of hesitation, Teyla tangled her hands in Elizabeth's hair as she parted her lips, allowing Elizabeth's tongue to enter.

Elizabeth shivered, the realization of her actions suddenly dawning on her: whether it was due to attraction, her confusion, or her anger at Simon's betrayal, she really couldn't say, she pulled back, startled by her own actions. Teyla was an innocent bystander and she certainly shouldn't be used in any form, be it for revenge or personal need. "I-I shouldn't have done that."

Teyla's confusion remained as she reclaimed Elizabeth's lips, and immediately, Elizabeth pulled back. "A-and y-you shouldn't have done that."

"Elizabeth?" Beckett's voice boomed through the communicator, startling both women.

Elizabeth looked at the Athosian, even more confused-not only by her own actions, but by Teyla's. "I-I-I should be going,"

Teyla grabbed her hand, ready with a reply, when Elizabeth added, "I'm so sorry."

And with that, she fled. This was too much for her, too confusing.



Chapter Three: Black and White

Summary: It wasn't going to be as easy as she'd hoped. In life, nothing was ever that- black and white, or simple.



It had been a little more than a month since that incident-kiss and a lot had happened within that time.

Aiden had been discovered, and from reports, his behavior had altered rapidly. And the fact that he purposely jumped into the culling beam certainly didn't help matters.

Of course, Elizabeth couldn't help but wonder how Sheppard was coping. He wanted to be the one to break the news to Aiden's cousin, in spite of her telling him that it wouldn't be a wise idea, but he wanted to-had to. Without a doubt, it devastated him, and then to see Aiden purposely jump into the oncoming beam, it would only be a matter of time before he cracked, and not just due to recent events, but in addition to past events like Sumner.

Ronon was a new addition to Sheppard's team and the city. He wasn't replacing Aiden, although Ronon was proving to be of great value. She couldn't imagine what it must have been like for him-having the wraith-tracking device in his back, running for several years, from the Wraith, having to isolate himself from civilization-and just like Ford, she barely knew Ronon. (He had resided in the city for almost a month and she barely knew him-time wasn't what she had-in fact, if anything, time wasn't on her side).

Then there was the mishap between McKay and a new recruit-Cadman. And when McKay, or rather, Cadman, kissed Carson, it certainly was a Kodak moment.

But of course, that kiss brought back memories of her own, memories that she'd tried to bury, which refused to be buried.

Not to mention the incident with the female Wraith, and that Anti-Wraith drug that almost cost Sheppard his life. Elizabeth still can't help worrying about him-about all of them.

The pre- and de-briefings with Sheppard and his team were harder than she'd imagined; Teyla being there made it that much harder and that much more awkward. Perhaps this is why she barely acknowledged the Athosian in the meetings and only spoke to her when needed.

Without a doubt, talking would accomplish something, but her pride was worth much more than that. And yes, sometimes swallowing your pride is the best solution, but not for her-if anything, it would be the worst solution.

A knock on the door brought her back to the present.

"John, what can I do for you?" she asked, wearing a warm, but forced smile.

Sheppard's eyebrow arched, fully aware that the smile was forced. He walked toward the empty chair, casually propping himself, he leant forward, speaking with concern, "What's going on between you and Teyla?"

Elizabeth's eyebrow rose in response. "Excuse me?"

Sheppard wasn't buying any of it. "Don't give me that look of innocence. You fully know what I'm on about."

"I'm afraid you've lost me, John."

He glared at her. "Oh come on, Elizabeth! In spite of what you all believe, I'm not blind and I certainly wasn't born yesterday! What the hell's going on between the two of you? What am I missing?"

"Yes, John. I'm aware that you weren't born yesterday. Nothing is going on between us, and you've missed nothing."

Again Sheppard's eyebrow rose, this time at Elizabeth's snideness-this wasn't like her. "Funny how I don't believe you."

"John," her voice bears warning.

"Than explain this to me-for a woman who tends to kick my ass on a regular basis, why did I have the upper hand several times? And this was before the exposure to the anti-Wraith drug. At first I thought she was easing upon me, but then it turned into a regular pattern."

Elizabeth looked at him questioningly, ready with a reply, when he continued. "I'm worried about her. She missed her last few sessions with Heightmeyer."
Elizabeth closed her eyes briefly, rubbing her brow.

"I'm surprised that Heightmeyer hasn't spoken to you about this."

"She has."

Anger gripped Sheppard. "She has? So haven't you done anything about this?"

Elizabeth's eyes flickered open. "She's a grown woman, John, who doesn't need me to hold her hand, and for you-"

He shot up out of his chair. "Okay, the Elizabeth I know would never be so blasé, nor would she have this attitude."

"The Elizabeth you know?"

He ignored her remark. "Whatever happened-"

"John, I'm warning you."

Again Sheppard choose to ignore this. "Whatever happened between the two of you needs to be sorted out, now."

She glowered at him.

"If you won't provide me with the answers, then I'll ask Teyla."

"Why don't you do that then?"

A frustrated growl escaped his lips as he stalked toward the door, only to pause in his tracks, changing his mind. "The reason I came to you first," he said, partially turning around, "is because you're supposed an adult and-and instead you're acting...like some spoilt brat!"

"If I wanted a lecture, John, I would have asked for one!" she snapped, folding her arms.

Screw this, Sheppard thought. "I don't give a damn. You're getting one whether you like it or not!"

Elizabeth stood up, leaning over her table. "Colonel-"

"Whatever happened between you and Teyla is clearly affecting the way you both work. Now, I don't know what happened to cause this kind of drastic alteration in your behavior, but I do know this-you were the last person to have seen Teyla, so clearly something happened for you to have this...this sudden attitude problem. I'd like I said, I don't know what happened, or who's really at fault, but sort it out, before someone gets hurt."

Elizabeth looked at him with the air of a bored woman, "Is that it? Lecture over?"

He stared at her, appalled at her behavior. "Sort it out. If you won't, I will and if that means confining you both in one of the rooms, then so be it."

With that, he stormed out. Elizabeth ducked her head, rubbing the back of her neck, fully aware of the honesty behind Sheppard's words.

She stood up, stalked out of the office, down the stairs, fully aware of what she had to do.



Scene: Gym.

Teyla spun around as the door swished open, the basketball dropping from her hands. For a few moments she was taken back, and then she blinked in surprise, her nervousness and awkwardness surfacing into a single syllable. "Hi,"

Elizabeth ducked her head, walking toward the younger woman. "We need to talk," she finally said, raising her head.

It wasn't going to be as easy as she'd hoped. In life, nothing was ever that-black and white or simple.

"We'll finish our session later," Lorne said, grabbing the basketball and heading out.

Teyla stalked toward the furthest bench, slumping down. "What is there to talk about?" she asked, crocking her head in the older woman's direction.

"About what happened...between us," she replied, awkwardly walking toward Teyla.

Teyla tugged at her ponytail. "You made your feelings rather clear. And the only reason you are here is because of the Colonel."

Surprise surfaced over the diplomat as she remained several feet away from the Athosian.

Teyla snorted softly. "You didn't think I would know? Ronon saw the Colonel heading into your office and he put two and two together and came up with four, as your people put it."

The bond between Ronon and Teyla was undeniable, everybody knows that they connected immediately, and ironically, Elizabeth can't help feeling jealousy at the slight mention of his name.

She'd seen them together so many times, and it begged the question of whether or not there's more to their friendship than meets the eye. Are they lovers? Or is their closeness due to their similarities?

And yet, her behavior toward the younger woman over the past month has been anything but friendly.

"What do you want me to say?"

Teyla snorted softly, replying, "The truth. Unless of course, you cannot admit to your own feelings, whatever they are."

Elizabeth didn't reply, and suddenly the room was filled with more tension.

Teyla ducked her head. "Is it so difficult for you to be honest?" she asked, raising her head and finally breaking the awkwardness. "I never realized that a simple kiss would lead to such anxiety. When the Colonel... kissed me because of the anti-Wraith drug, it was not as bad...awkward as this."

"H-he kissed you?"

Elizabeth wasn't sure whether or not Teyla heard that, and if she did, she certainly wasn't intending to continue the subject.

"Over the past few months, I have found myself very much, attracted to you, and when you kissed me..." Teyla shrugged, her eyes briefly flickering towards the diplomat, "I was relieved. I finally knew how you felt and where I stood. But then something changed-you changed, a-and you pulled away as if you had made some kind of mistake and that the very thought of us being involved was repulsive. We should have talked about it, and I tried so many times (her voice cracked) but you, you did not want to know. And now, here you stand, because of something the Colonel said..." she laughed weakly, "That says a lot about your character."

Elizabeth couldn't help the feeling of awkwardness or embarrassment. "In retrospect, I should have spoken to you, and I-I should have handled things better and for that, I'm truly sorry, but it's far more complicated than you think."

"Simplify it."

"If I could, I would."

Teyla stood up, stalking toward Elizabeth. "It is often we who complicate things, simply because we are too afraid to face the reality, the truth, too afraid to simplify matters and instead, we opt to hide."

Without realizing, Elizabeth grabbed Teyla's hand, frustration surfacing into her voice, "If I could simplify it and if it really was as simple as you make it out to be, don't you think I would have tried?!"

Teyla held her anguished gaze, before uttering, "No. As I said, you are too afraid."

"You don't know me. So don't-"

"I thought I understood you at least. But clearly I was wrong. Clearly, I did not know you as well as I thought I did. Answer me this-why did you kiss me?"

Embarrassment began creeping into her cheeks. "I-I don't know. But I am sorry."

Teyla nodded. "You said that before."

Elizabeth gazed at Teyla with desperation. "I'm sorry for my behavior, for the way I've treated you, but can't you see? It's complicated."

Teyla began walking toward the exit, "So you keeping saying," she paused halfway through, "But why is it complicated?"

Elizabeth spun around, her eyes searching the younger woman's; the sudden feel of butterflies in her stomach is the last thing she needed. "It just is," she said after a long pause. "I-I kissed you, when I shouldn't have. I-I took out my anger, my frustration b-by kissing you and it was wrong of me to do that. Simon was the one to betray me, not you, a-and I used you, I used you!" Elizabeth began pacing, as the truth continued to emerge and she began repeating herself. "And I shouldn't have, but I did, and I hate myself for that. Believe me or don't believe me when I say I like you...and (she laughed, weakly) I am attracted to you, but I used you, when I shouldn't have. And I hated...correction, hate, myself for that. That's why I've been behaving the way I have for the past month, I know that's no excuse, but..." she trailed off,

Teyla gently grabbed her by the shoulders, her voice bearing perplexity, "Why didn't you tell me?"

Elizabeth smirked, running a hand through her hair, "Because it was, and still is, complicated. I used you for personal vengeance, lied to you, and I was supposed to explain all this to you? You wouldn't have understood, even I don't even understand it myself. So how am I supposed to expect you to understand my feelings, when I can't understand my own emotions?" She gazed at Teyla, searchingly. "Do you understand any of this?"

"No," she replied honestly.

"Well then."

For the first time, Teyla found herself at a loss, and she aired her confusion, "Where do we go from here?"

"I don't know."

On to part 2