Chapter Text
Vesca stood by the railing on the 53rd floor balcony, looking out toward the harbor, and enjoying the sounds of the busy city. She knew San Francisco was a large city, but also knew that the humans usually preferred more personal space. Nothing would ever be quite like home here on Denobula. She chuckled at herself as she inhaled deeply to embed the memory of home. She so desperately wanted to leave and see what was out there, but couldn’t help but be nervous about leaving the familiar. She heard someone clear their throat from behind her. Felix spoke quietly, “I know you have plenty of time, but if you’re going to stop and see Rin on the way, you might want to leave soon.” Vesca turned to look at him, with happy tears in her eyes. “Brother. I will miss you so much,” she said as she pulled him into a warm embrace. Hugging her back, he playfully punched her in the arm. “I can’t believe you’re going to miss my wedding.” Vesca laughed. “You know that I need to get out before anyone decides to force my hand.” Felix grinned and shook his head. “I think everyone realizes that you have your own way of doing things.” Vesca winked. “Everyone except Forlisa.” He shrugged, not really having a comeback for that.
Vesca bent over to grab her travel bag, slinging it over her shoulder as she moved back into the family apartment. She was surprised to see the whole family gathered, and as she moved through the room, they all offered congratulations and well wishes. Felix helped usher her to the door, and when she turned around to say goodbye, she couldn’t help but look around for Forlisa. She finally saw her, leaning against the wall near the hall in the back. Forlisa looked into Vesca’s eyes and did something she hadn’t done in a long time. She smiled, and gave her daughter a polite nod. Vesca was both shocked by the smile, and angry that her mother couldn’t bring herself to say a proper goodbye. Sighing, Vesca gave a curt nod to her mother before turning to leave her family home.
Vesca maintained her neutral face until she got into the lift. Alone, she sobbed bittersweet tears. Before the doors opened at street level, she had composed herself, and given herself a pep talk about reaching for the stars and following her dreams. Crossing the street, she made way to Rin’s shop, and when she walked in there, she felt like she was home again. Rin waved her over as soon as she entered, and sat down with Vesca, a pot of hilinden tea already waiting for them to share. They embraced in the traditional Denobulan way, breathing in deeply to catch the scent of one another.
As was their usual way, they talked about everything and nothing. There was chatter about the new growths in the garden, more serious debate about the recent trials for sentient holograms, but eventually the conversation came back to the present day. Vesca shared her mixed feelings with Rin, and Rin, as usual, was able to help Vesca find confidence in herself. She reminded Vesca of all the work she did in the rehabilitation programs, and how she had redirected her curiosity in healthy directions, keeping her record clear so she could apply to Starfleet Academy. Rin had always insisted that this move would do Vesca a lot of good. The conversation helped remind Vesca about how eager she was to attend, even if she would miss this home with Rin as well.
After about an hour, the door to the shop opened once more, and when Vesca saw Rin’s smile, she turned to see who was there. Much to her surprise, Vesca saw both Paul and Lela. She just sat there with her mouth hanging open in surprise. Paul laughed loudly, and Lela did too as she looked at Rin, “So I guess you decided to keep it a surprise!”
“I thought dinner last night was our farewell!” Vesca finally said as she gathered her wits.
“Like we would let you go off by yourself!” Paul said.
Rin smiled at the Squad. “Well, off you should go, lest you miss your shuttle. Can’t have that!”
Vesca’s smile faded slightly as she thought about leaving this place. She got up and gathered Rin in her arms, giving her the biggest hug she could. “I can’t imagine not seeing you every day. Thank you for being my friend and my family.” Rin couldn’t say anything, as she was caught in her own emotions, but she squeezed the young woman in response.
With that, Paul grabbed Vesca’s bag, and grabbed her around the waist with his other arm, while Lela grabbed her around the shoulders from the other side. The three of them made their way to the port locked together that way. Vesca felt so lucky to have her two best friends accompanying her to the shuttle departure area. Once they found the right bay, the Squad circled up, holding hands with one another. Vesca looked up at them both, squeezing their hands, but unwilling to say goodbye. Paul broke the silence, grabbing Vesca around the waist, and pulling her to him. “You best give me one of those great kisses of yours to keep my memory company while you’re gone!” She laughed softly as they kissed goodbye, then stepped over to Lela and did the same. They huddled up once more, but not soon after, the announcement came over the speakers that it was time for departure.
Vesca took her bag from Paul’s outstretched hand, and backed away from them slowly, wanting to make this memory last. She turned to take the entry ramp, and noticed an Andorian security guard at the entrance. Vesca began to laugh to herself, muttering under her breath as she waited in line. “See? I told you I’d serve with you one day.”