Work Text:
gift
Chris doesn’t let himself think about it, just grabs the box before he leaves his borrowed quarters for the last time. He still hopes he’ll find a way to give it to her that isn’t... inappropriate.
Then Discovery defends herself against destruction, and everything goes to hell.
It’s safe in his pocket, but Tilly’s going to the future; there’s no time, he can’t go find her. He’s rapidly running out of chances.
"Mr Saru?"
"Captain?"
Saru loves Tilly dearly. They have only minutes. This is his best option.
He takes the box out of his pocket. "Can you make sure to give this to Ensign Tilly? I won’t get the chance, and I want her to have it."
Saru’s gaze softens. "Of course." He slips it into his own pocket, pats it gently, twice. "You have my word."
It’s not ideal, but he trusts Saru. At least Tilly will get it, which is almost all he cares about. (He’ll never get to see her reaction.)
"Really gonna miss you, Saru," he says again.
Saru bows in that graceful way he has. "And I you, Captain. It has been an honour."
Chris grasps his elbow for a second; Saru nods. There’s no time for anything else.
~ fin ~