"We can modify your patch, or replacement, to your specifications."

He'd promise her the sky if it would make her happy, right about now. Her request, though, creates a familiar pang.

"Of course."

He can remember how he felt, trapped in the medbay, after his own ordeal.

"All my other obligations are extraneous. I can remain as long as you wish me to."

His hand strokes down her back, cautious and gentle.

"As soon as you are able, I will help you leave the medbay. Until then, I will stay with you as much as possible."