Lael sighed as she dabbed the corners of her mouth with the napkin. They’d left this morning in such a hurry to meet Cailyn and Chris that she hadn’t had time for a proper breakfast. Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on one’s perspective), the transport had been slightly delayed, meaning she and Chythar had time for a quick meal. Protein and flavor-packed–just the right combination for a mom and two growing babies.
Rosek-Skyfire: Well, that hit the spot. What did you think, love?
Chythar was still eating his sushi, and savoring the flavor of it. He picked up the piece of octopus nigiri with his chopsticks and dipped it into the soy sauce as he glanced up at his wife.
C. Skyfire: (nodding as he swallows.) Tasty.
She glanced at the chronometer, her eyes widening when she realized the time.
Rosek-Skyfire: Oh! Their transport is due in any minute! We should get going!
Hesitating a moment, she considered how to handle the very tricky task of standing without knocking anything off the table or falling over. It was embarrassing. Part of her was more than ready for the twins to be born, so she could get on with the healing that would leave her on light duty until she was cleared.
At last, she managed to stand and lifted pleading eyes to Chythar, asking him to handle her tray for her.
CD finished up the last of his plate, dabbed his beard with the napkin, and proceeded to clean up the table. He was fully expecting Chris to go on and on about coffee, and didn’t really know what he and Cailyn would talk about.
{{Mini Time Jump}}
They approached the arrivals board, and Lael scanned for the Vaelik, the vessel that would be carrying her in-laws. She was frustrated to find that it wasn’t showing. Had it been diverted? Why wasn’t it listed?
Rosek-Skyfire: ::to Chythar:: Did Chris say anything about their arrival being delayed again?
C. Skyfire: Not when I last heard about four hours ago. Problem?
She resisted the urge to respond with sarcasm and a biting retort. No, Chythar was just Chythar.
Rosek-Skyfire: ::exhales:: Their transport isn’t on the arrivals list. I’m just hoping something didn’t happen to them enroute.
While part of her was concerned for their safety, her OCD side was frustrated at the thought of her big Christmas plans being ruined. She’d gone through a good deal of effort to make the holiday perfect for them. Everyone had been through their fair share of disappointments over the last several months, and she just wanted this to make up for it. Perhaps it was in part the pregnancy hormones, but she was holding back tears of frustration.
Chythar stood next to her and wrapped his arms around her, giving one of his family-famous healing hugs. He didn’t really know what to say, because he hardly ever did. However, he learned long ago that his silent strength was sometimes an answer in of itself. Especially while she was pregnant.
She chewed her lower lip, hoping they weren’t drawing attention. As much as she had spent most of her life not relying on anyone, even under extreme duress, there was a peace in knowing that Chythar stood beside her without judgment.
Rosek-Skyfire: oO What a silly thing to be getting so upset over. Oo
Taugan: Can I help you with something, ma’am?
The doctor turned his attention to the crewman while still maintaining a gentle embrace on Lael.
C. Skyfire: Status update on the Vaelik, if you have one. Otherwise, no. We’ll just wait patiently for it to show up.
Taugan: ::pauses:: They’re not on the board? Are you sure it’s arriving today?
Rosek-Skyfire: No, it’s not, which is strange. My husband’s uncle confirmed four hours ago that they were enroute. There was a small delay, but he didn’t indicate that it was anything extensive. Last we heard, they were supposed to arrive ten minutes ago.
Taugan: Well, I’m not an expert. Let’s see if we can get you to someone who would know better than me. ::motions for them to follow her::
CD took his wife’s hand and followed the crewman. He was glad that he left Kaidan at home, because otherwise this would take so much longer.
Her gaze flickered to Chythar’s, a kernel of hope replacing the frustration.
Rosek-Skyfire: oO Breathe. It’ll work itself out. Just breathe. Oo
They followed the crewman who approached a counter, behind which a friendly face stood.
((OOC: Anyone can write for the customer service person. Feel free to give them a name and a personality. ))
Customer Service Person: Response
Taugan: These lovely folks were looking for information on a transport they were expecting with family aboard.
Customer Service Person: Response
CD exhaled, a tad frustrated, but thankfully able to conceal the truth of his emotions. With his years of practiced experience he focused on projecting calm as he once again proceeded to explain.
C. Skyfire: The Vaelik should’ve been here by now, I feel. But it’s not on the board as having arrived. Don’t suppose you’ve heard anything recent?
Hopper: Response
The atmosphere shifted instantly, and Lael forced a smile that she didn’t quite feel. She’d become quite practiced at putting on a face. It was the story of her childhood and many of her adult years. Some habits died hard, she supposed.
Rosek-Skyfire: Nothing major. We’re just hoping for an update on a family member’s arrival. My husband’s uncle and sister are joining us for the holidays. Their transport is running a little behind, it seems.
Hopper: Response
Customer Service Person: Response
She tried not to be impatient as the pair worked to find out what had happened.
Hopper: Response
Customer Service Person: Response