Chapter Text
Kelly knocked on the door of Admiral Halsey’s office.
“Come in,” the admiral called.
Kelly entered, and Halsey motioned for her to sit down.
“You wanted to see me, Admiral?”
“Commander Grayson,” Halsey began, “over the past few months, the admiralty has been… quite impressed with your work ethic. You’ve always been exceptional, but lately, you’ve seemed to throw yourself completely into your assignments.”
Kelly’s throat tightened. It was true. Her work was all that was left for her now. The only way she could try to make some sort of positive impact on anything. Besides, it helped keep her mind off of… other things. And it wasn’t like there was anyone missing her at home, or anyone to socialize with when work was done. All she said was, “I’m fortunate to have a job I enjoy.”
Halsey nodded. “The USS Jefferson is losing its first officer to promotion, and we’d like to offer you the position.”
Kelly was surprised. She hadn’t been expecting this. She’d always wanted to serve on a starship, but lately, her reputation had taken a serious hit. Would anyone even listen to her? And there were other, more personal, factors to consider. “Admiral, I’m honored. But… I have to respectfully decline.”
“May I ask the reason?”
“I just… feel like there are others more qualified. More deserving.”
“If you mean Ed… I wouldn’t put him in any sort of leadership position right now. Certainly not on as big a ship as the Jefferson.”
Kelly shook her head. “He should be the one getting this job. Not me.”
Halsey shrugged. “Maybe a few months ago. But right now, he’s not ready, and you are. Simple as that.”
“But it’s my fault he’s not ready.”
Halsey scoffed. “You’re both adults. You make your own decisions.”
“Then you must realize that I made a decision that will cause lower-ranking officers to not want to take orders from me.”
“You must make them respect you. Did you plan to hide in an office building on Earth forever? Your father wanted more than that for you.”
“Then add him to the list of people I’ve disappointed. I can’t accept, Admiral. I’m very sorry. I wish I could.”