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"Jeff, why are you attempting to hack the lock on Shepard's cabin?" EDI asked.
Joker looked up, grinning sheepishly at getting caught. He should have known she'd find out. EDI was everywhere. It sometimes made things a little awkward, having an omnipresent girlfriend, but in this case, he suspected she'd go along with him.
"I needed to drop something off for him," he said. "Why don't you be awesome and unlock the door for me? I'm about to break a shin trying to crouch down like this."
"I don't think Shepard is aware that you're attempting to enter his cabin," she said doubtfully.
"Come on, EDI. It's gonna be really funny. I promise. Totally worth it."
"Oh, I see. This is a joke?"
"Yes!" he crowed. "Remind me to explain practical jokes to you later. Just get the door and warn me if he starts to come up."
The lock flashed green, and Joker limped inside, checking out Shepard's digs. The commander had a pretty sweet setup, though the fish tank was maybe a little over the top.
He found what he was looking for, and his omni-tool glowed as he scanned it over the face of the frame. Stepping back, he admired his work. How long would it take him to notice? Joker sort of hoped he wouldn't for awhile. It would make the whole thing even better.
"What do you think, EDI? I think it improves the feng shui of the place."
"I…don't see how this relates to ancient human energy practices."
"You'll see."
"Shepard is returning," she warned. "I have provided him with a distraction to give you time to escape."
"You're the best, EDI."
Now to wait and see.
Jake walked into his cabin, shrugging out of his jacket and casting a longing look at the bed. No time for sleep now. There was too much to be done. Liara had something to show him. Vega needed to speak with him. Diana Allers wanted an interview. And they were on their way to meet with the quarians. Too much to do, too little time. He'd barely even gotten the chance to speak with Kaidan since his return.
He paused by the photo of the handsome biotic, giving himself a moment just to look at him. Kaidan didn't know about the picture, and he wasn't sure how he'd react, but it was one of the few things that gave Jake peace in the midst of the chaos.
Kaidan's picture wasn't there. In its place was a photo of…
" Joker ." He gaped at the picture, shaking his head in disbelief, and burst into laughter. "EDI, did you know about this?"
"Yes, Shepard. It was a joke."
"Do not tell Joker that I noticed it. Let's let him squirm for a little bit."
Still chuckling, he went to the terminal and invited Vega up. He'd find another place for Kaidan. Beside the bed, perhaps. He couldn't remember the last time he'd truly laughed.
Now, to figure out how to explain it to Kaidan….