With hearty laughter

To Samantha's surprise Dr. Marque bursts out in laughter. Deep rich laughter that makes his chest rumble. It seems so unlike him to find the horrors of Rhiain's story amusing, but Samantha finds that she likes the sound of his laughter even if what he finds amusing is so very troubling.

“You left out the scene with Mistress Maria.” He tells her and suddenly Samantha understands that Dr. Marque knows that Rhiain had fabricated her entire story. It isn't until he explains that she understands why he found Rhiain's tale of woe so humorous. “I'm a sophisticated hospital administrator now, but you forget I served three terms in the Navy after med school.” He chuckles softly and flicks the tip of Samantha's nose good naturedly.

“One thing us Navy men do is watch a LOT of porn.” He explains, “Even holos from one hundred years ago.” Samantha can feel Rhiain slip away leaving Samantha alone to deal with the consequences as she realizes that her story didn't fool the doctor, fair weather friend that one is. “It was even called 'First Fruits' wasn't it?” Samantha nods sheepishly; she has no idea what the holo was called, but she is relieved at least that Dr. Marque does not appear overly upset with her lies.

“I have to say, your recounting of the horrors of interplanetary slavers was far more moving than the actual holo.” Suddenly Samantha realizes that she is still draped over the doctor's lap and tries to put some space between their bodies but Dr. Marque holds her tightly to his side. “I tried to stop you, really I did.” He apologizes with another hug that makes her feel even worse about letting Rhiain try to manipulate him. “But you were so emotional, it really made me want to protect you, even though I knew it was total Jerah shit.”

Dr. Marque's arms are still tight around her shoulders holding her to his side gently but firmly. Instead of feeling afraid or trapped like she imagines Rhiain might feel, Samantha relaxes against Dr. Marque's ribs again. He feels so right against her, she closes her eyes and lets out a deep sigh of contentment. He strokes her hair softly as they sit in silence but after a minute or two he shifts awkwardly and asks gently.

“So, do you want to try again, or should we just forget about who you are and just sit here in silence?”