She's your junior officer!

You are a bit shocked by Serena's blatant offer, you must say. A small part of you is flattered that she finds you attractive, but it's not something you would ever take her up on. You've never really been attracted to other women, and even if you were, she's your subordinate. It wouldn't be proper in the slightest to take advantage of her this way. Still, you know she's had a very eventful and emotional day. She has been nothing short of an exemplary officer in the time she's served under you, so you are willing to concede that she only made this offer in a very vulnerable state of mind. You decide to let her down easy.

You place your hands on her shoulders and very gently ease her away from where you sit. "I'm sorry, Ensign," you say in a quiet voice. "I just don't feel that way about you. I am honored to have you under my command, and hope that we can remain friends. But anything else would be quite against regulations, and therefore impossible." The young woman's face goes beet red...you can tell she's mortified. "Oh my god!" she stammers, struggling for words. "I am so....sorry....Major. I shouldn't have....I mean I....." She cuts off, unable to even look at you now. You reach over and gently turn her back to meet your blue eyes. "Listen, Ensign....Serena. No harm done. It's been a rough day for both of us. We are both exhausted, and not in the best state of mind. Let's try and get some rest and get ready for tomorrow. I still need you. It's going to take both of us to get off this forsaken rock. Ok?" you say, trying to alieve some of her humiliation. It takes her a moment, but she eventually takes a deep breath and meets your gaze. "Yes, Major. I understand. And....thank you." she says. You nod, "Now...lets get some sleep. That's an order," you say, with a smile on your face. She smiles back, and you both bed down for as good a night's rest as you can get.

All too soon, the sun's rays peeking through the trees wake you both up. You take a few moments to gather up your supplies, while Serena puts out the remains of your fire. When you are both ready, you point in the direction where you saw the smoke the previous day. "I figure we can make it by lunch time, barring any unforeseen interruptions," you guess, and the Ensign nods in agreement. "Let's get going then." With that, you both set out to resume your search.