The other woman listened and nodded as Tiraa spoke and was able to recognize within herself how important passion could be to experience and share with another. “I have no doubt such feelings are quite recognizable,” she said. There wasn’t a lot of confidence in Tiara's response about typically not intruding on the thoughts of others, but she didn’t debate it either.

“If you aren’t able to find a way to help you sleep better, I will extend the offer to join me in meditation, if you like. It’s a straightforward process and I find it helps me to center on my own thoughts and drown out my own anxieties in the background. The astrometrics alcove is a beautiful place for such things” Lindsy added.

Tiraa was relatively certain the offer wasn’t genuine, and instead of being hypocritical with what she had just said, she didn’t reach out to find out if that was the case. “I’m sure I’ll get used to it in time, though an occasional stroll across the hallway as a kindness wouldn’t be unnoticed now and then.”

She gave a simple smile and ran her fingers through her dark hair.

“As I am sure you have picked up, I value my privacy. Strolls will certainly be a common thing, and besides, he has bigger quarters and more furniture. More opportunities to appreciate everything that I do.” Lindsy had light hearted in her reply, accompanied by a smile.

She continued “I am looking forward to working with you as the Command Liaison, Zedd was quite specific on my role and not stepping on any toes. I hope we can develop a level of communication and understanding that is unmatched.”

Tiraa’s smile transformed into a mischievous grin at the other woman’s comment; she didn’t laugh, but she was clearly deeply amused and appreciative of her awareness. It faded back into a milder smile when she spoke of her position. “I’m sure Zedd will want to monopolize most of your time, truthfully, in whatever capacity he needs. You don’t need to worry about me, though I would be glad of your help. Rallid has served that function for me for years, so I will not be without when you are occupied elsewhere.”

A nod in understanding “The way I see it, is when Zedd and whomever else goes off ship to board..whatever it is…you and I are likely not going. Someone has to run the ship and someone has to fly it. Between that and my work to assist both you and the Captain, and my time in the alcove, I can agree I will have little time for much else. Despite everything, I want you to know that if you do need me, I’m here to do the job I signed up for. Speaking of which, now with the added Liaison role, I’ll need to renegotiate my contract. Been meaning to do that since the first day I signed on anyways, Zedd did say we would. And now with this..well. More latinum is always better.”

“Yes, you should definitely make sure you do that.” Tiraa paused, her head tilted just slightly, and she added, “Take my advice and do so after you’ve rearranged some furniture in his quarters though.”

Despite the undertone of the conversation up to this point, Lindsy absolutely could not hide a true smile to the statement, nor did she want to. “I agree, it’s always important to take advantage of an opportunity at the best possible time, when things are in one’s favor. That is part of the Rigellian in me, I think we do better business than the Ferengi by a long shot. Especially these ones here in the Gamma Quadrant. They fold too easily.”

Tiraa scoffed though it was playful. “Please. They all fold like tissue paper if you know where to squeeze; that goes for most men, though.”

She slid her cup closer to her plate, her expression gradually drifting toward something more neutral. “I know you have a lot to do, so I won’t keep you. This was fun, and I look forward to working with you when occasion arises.”

“Very true” Lindsy replied. “I should let you return to your work as well. Thank you for sharing lunch with me, Tiraa. I am sure we will find more opportunities to share fun with one another.” She cleaned up her own items as well and placed them on her tray.

They both moved to the replicator to discard their dishes, and Tiraa gave another parting smile. “Take care, Lindsy.”

With that, she walked out of the mess without another glance back.