DISCLAIMER: None of the SGA characters belong to me. If they did, Elizabeth would’ve come out long ago. Instead, they belong to Brad Wright, Robert. C. Cooper and co.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Thank-you Dawn for being my wonderful beta.
ARCHIVING: Only with the permission of the author.

The Decision
By teh_gandu

 

In spite of the facade she continued to put up, in spite of her reassurance toward the diplomat that she would have done the same had she been in Elizabeth's shoes, deep down, Teyla felt resentment and perplexity at Elizabeth's actions.

Sheppard, Ford, and McKay all defended her and continued to defend her, and for that she will forever be in their debt; they were there for her when she needed the support and understanding that only friends could provide.

"I wanted to thank you for what you all did. For-"

"Why?" Aiden asked, his voice bearing confusion, "We accused your people-"

Teyla raised her hand, silencing the slightly younger man. "The three of you defended my people, you didn't have to, and yet, you did, and for that, I am forever grateful." She smiled weakly. "Sergeant Bates has never trusted my people; perhaps in time, he will. But, we all know that that day will never come, but as you once said, major, 'Stranger things have happened'." She shrugged. "I have always valued our friendship, our trust, and our respect and today, today you all made me aware of how much you trust and respect me." She closed her eyes. "I wish the same could be said about Doctor Weir."

"Teyla," Sheppard began.

A soft smile formed on her lips, "I know, I'm being stupid, but…" she sighed, lowering her head, "Halling could not believe the amount of trust and respect I had for her…"

"That's good, right?" Aiden asked.

Her head rose as she replied, "Not when the trust and respect is not returned."

McKay finally spoke. "We all care for you, Teyla. But Elizabeth…s-she was torn, as we all were, but…" He trailed off, hoping she'd get the message. She didn't.

"I think what McKay's trying to say is that she cares for you more than you realize, and the events over the past few days…weren't easy for her, either."

They stood up as Sheppard continued. "And I think it mightn't be a bad idea if the two of you spoke."

Teyla studied her hands, "No, it wouldn't."

As they exited, Elizabeth entered. Her voice cracked as she spoke. "I'm so sorry, Teyla. And I wish things could've been different."

Teyla smiled weakly. "Me too. Me too."

She walked toward the bed, taking Teyla's hands into her own as she sat down. She gazed at the younger woman, gingerly brushing her fingers over Teyla's hands. "Where do we go from here?"

Teyla held her anguished gaze. "I do not know."

The End

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