A conversation with mother

[ElaineDelgado 0]

((special thanks to my rl mom who had way too much fun writing this with me))

 

Elaine walked into her room and sat down at the desk. A small light flashing alerted her to the fact that someone wished to have a video transmission with her. She noted that the invitation was from her mother, and connected immediately.

 

“Hello, Mother,” she said when T’Pen’s visage appeared.

 

“You look tired, T’Lan. Have you been taking your vitamins and supplements?”

 

Raising an eyebrow, Elaine replied, “Of course, Mother. Every day.”

 

“You lie. And you do it badly.”

 

Elaine blinked. “Was there a purpose to your contacting me, Mother?”

 

“Oh, yes. I am taking a teaching position at the Academy.”

 

“You seemed to enjoy teaching while I was a child. Teaching again should make you happy.”

 

“Happy?” T’Pen snorted, but decided to let the comment pass. After sighing she asked, “Is something bothering you, my daughter? You seem troubled.”

 

“He’s not really bothering me, Mother, more like pursuing me. Actively.” Elaine played with a paintbrush on her desk, thinking.

 

“Pursing? I did not realize you had any predatory species on your ship.”

 

Elaine looked up. “I beg your pardon?”

 

“Ah, so you are listening. Who is this he?”

 

“He is Lieutenant Junior Grade Crispin Xavier, assistant engineer.”

 

“An engineer? Hmm…engineers are worthless cogs on a starship. Most of their responsibilities can be done more efficiently by a computer and without the emotional outbursts that are so common to their profession.”

 

“But Mother, you married an engineer.”

 

“He was an exception,” T’Pen rubbed her eyebrows for a moment. “Have you reciprocated his… advances?”

 

Elaine tilted her head to the side. “Not… really.”

 

“Are you keeping details from me?” T’Pen’s eyes narrowed.

 

Elaine sighed. “Only details that must be kept from all people.”

 

“That was quite cryptic. I am sensing that you are distressed by his attentions.”

 

“Yes, Mother. I would like to let him know I am not interested in him romantically, but I would like to develop a friendship, instead.”

 

“The most logical solution would be to be forthright.”

 

“I’ve never been that assertive,” Elaine lamented. “You know that.”

 

“You’re more like your father than you know,” T’Pen pointed out. “Draw from your memories of him. Let his strength be your strength, his assertiveness yours. Meditate on what you will say to this… Crispy… Crunchy… what was his name again?”

 

“Crispin.”

 

“Ah, yes… think on what you will say to him before you speak. Remain in control of yourself and the conversation. When you are finished, walk away. Success is yours, my daughter.”

 

“Thank you, Mother.”

 

“Of course.” T’Pen nodded to her daughter. “And T’Lan, do try to get more sleep. Your eyes look baggy.” She ended the transmission.

 

Elaine leaned back in her chair, and began processing what her mother had said.