Fic: Trust by neevebrody (The Lost Boys)

[neevebrody.livejournal.com]

Fic
Title:  Trust
Author:neevebrody
Episode and type of story:  The Lost Boys - Missing Scene
Additional spoilers:  Spoilers Lost Boys
Rating:  G
Categories:  Gen
Pairing:  McKay/Sheppard (pre-slash)
Warnings:  None
Word Count:  613
Summary:  Of all the unknown quantities in the Pegasus galaxy, and there were many, the one constant was Rodney's innate ability to feel superior, and the irresistibility to demonstrate that superiority at every given opportunity.

I've revisited another of my mini_nanowrimo stories.  I thought I'd cross post several of the better ones here.  I promise not to spam.  Some of the earlier ones were only posted to my journal, so I thought I'd share.

Trust

McKay's genius, not to mention his inquisitiveness, made him very predictable.  Sheppard found him in the makeshift lab toying with one of the Wraith data devices.  The one Ford called Jace was studying the translation notes Rodney had prepared and given him.  Of all the unknown quantities in the Pegasus galaxy, and there were many, the one constant was Rodney's innate ability to feel superior, and the irresistibility to demonstrate that superiority at every given opportunity.

That one character trait, or flaw depending on how you looked at it, made McKay a prime target.  The rub was, Rodney didn't realize it, even though John had attempted, patiently, on several occasions, to explain it to him.  Finally, John had accepted that Rodney couldn't help displaying his intelligence and capabilities, and apparently needed John to protect him from himself.

He made his way over to Rodney.  Jace didn't even stir. 

"Rodney," he asked, casually resting his hand on his shoulder, "what are you doing?"

Without pausing or bothering to look up, Rodney answered, "You want to be able to fly that dart, don't you?"

"I'd really rather not, but since it's our only ticket out of here, I don't see I have much of a choice, do I?"

Rodney did look up then, that irascible expression of frustration flickered for just a second, then dissolved.  "I am trying to figure out which systems I'm going to need to program translation codes for in order for you to read the HUD.  Unless, of course, your Wraith has improved immeasurably in the past few hours."

John cut his eyes at Rodney.  "No."  He watched as Rodney scrolled through the data, making copious notes effortlessly.  The enzyme.

"How are you feeling, Rodney?" John asked.  He was truly concerned how the Wraith enzyme was affecting his team and what sort of residual problems they were going to face on their return home.

"Oh, fine, fine.  That is if you enjoy hot flashes, and you consider being able to hear your own blood circulating - feel it vibrate your entire body, fine."

John winced.  "Well, I've asked Ford to dial back your dose.  Actually, I asked him to cut it out all together, but we have to take what we can get."

Rodney looked into his eyes then.  John knew he wouldn't say it, but understanding and gratitude, maybe even a little relief flashed across Rodney's face.  It was uncanny how they'd come to be able to read each other so well. 

"Right.  Well, if he really wants this mission to succeed, he--"

"Exactly," John said.  "I told him you didn't need to feel like you were going to jump out of your skin-- I mean you are a little on the excitable side anyway."  They exchanged feeble smiles before turning their attention back to the display.

After a few moments Rodney asked, "So, are you're sure about this whole thing?"

This time the look on Rodney's face was one of uncertainty, not really fear, but a need for reassurance.  Flying a Wraith dart on a mission to a hive ship - full of Wraith - and doing so as hostages of Ford and his men?  Was there any way he could be certain of something like that?  But Rodney already knew that, and John knew he didn't want to hear doomsday scenarios, certain Rodney could come up with enough of those on his own.  So, he gave Rodney what he needed.

"Sure, Rodney.  We're gonna make it."

Rodney's face seemed to soften at that and John watched his mouth squirm into a crooked half-smile before turning back to the display and his notes.

"Hmm, I thought so."