Katherine stiffened at the frown on Captain Hunter’s face, convinced he was going to disagree with her, but his expression softened and he smiled in a way Katherine found irresistibly charming.  The tension visibly drained from her body and she almost smiled back, but the desire in his eyes as his gaze remained fixed on her was unmistakable, and a complete surprise.  Though unexpected, it affected her nonetheless, and she stilled, very aware of the sudden increased tempo of her heartbeat and tingling heat fluttering in her belly.  Conscious of the others seated around the table, she was relieved when he finally turned away to address them, and pleased to hear he actually backed her up, but more importantly, grateful she could finally regain control of her senses.<br/><br/>In the next breath, he focused on Dr. Heath and apologized to the caustic leader with a conciliatory tone that made Katherine raise her eyebrows, and look at Dr. Heath to gauge her reaction. The older woman seemed delighted by his demeanour and sincerity, and relaxed in her chair, dangling her hands over the armrests, grinning.  “Thank you Captain Hunter, I appreciate that.  You obviously understand the issues and I’m confident<em>you’ll</em>do whatever is necessary to keep things running smoothly,” she said meaningfully, casting a quick derisive glance at Katherine, as if silently highlighting the sharp contrast of what she just said to her displeasure over Katherine’s earlier outburst.<br/><br/>An uncomfortable quiet descended, hanging like a pall over the room, at least, that was Katherine’s take on it as she glanced at her colleagues, most of whom were staring down at the table, unsure of what to say.  Dr. Pike was the only one to look up and give her a small reassuring smile, but it only served to make her feel self-conscious.  Heat flooded her cheeks as she fully realized her mistake in confronting Dr. Heath openly, no matter how well intended.  Politics never was her strong point, and she clenched her fists wishing she’d never agreed to take on something so clearly outside her area of expertise.  Staring at the table, frustrated at feeling like a chastised child yet forced to admit she should probably speak up and apologize to the woman, stubborn pride prevented her from actually doing it; instead, she would make amends later, in private.  Hopefully, their relationship wouldn’t be damaged beyond repair.<br/><br/>Dr. Heath finally broke the silence, addressing the room, and snapping Katherine out of her reverie.  “Well, I’m glad that’s all settled.  I have more important things to discuss, specifically, the meeting with Colonel Miller.  That is, unless anyone else has something to add?” She asked cheerfully, standing up and placing her hands on the table, waiting to see if anyone spoke up and allowing people to talk briefly amongst themselves before taking control of the room once again.<br/><br/>Katherine, still seated with her hands now clasped in her lap, turned to Captain Hunter while watching Dr. Heath, but not really listening since the woman’s focus was on the people who didn’t already know the details.  “Why do I get the impression she’s got something up her sleeve,” she whispered absently.  Giving him her full attention, and in a voice low enough that only he would hear, she said, “Anyway, thank you for backing me up earlier, I appreciate it and I meant what I said about agreeing with you, that mutual respect is important,” she said sincerely, and then with a wry smile added. “However, I think it’s safe to say I could have handled it better with Dr. Heath, but I will do my best to mitigate the damage.”  Looking at him thoughtfully she paused for a brief moment before saying, “You on the other hand dealt with it very well.” She said it with approval, respect and a desire to keep things professional, but despite her intentions, quickly found her gaze lingering on his handsome features, captivated by the strong masculine lines of his face, and the dark unfathomable eyes she found so compelling.  Acutely aware of his allure and her attraction, but unwilling to let it take control of her feelings again, she shifted in her chair and cast a glance at Dr. Heath to break the spell, needing to concentrate on something else.<br/><br/>“…The disagreements going on back home shouldn’t concern you, but you have a right to know about the situation.  It is very important however, that we do not allow the opinions of Colonel Miller or his superiors to interfere with our goals, and since the IOA agrees with all of my decisions thus far, this should give us all the confidence to move forward as we see fit, without fear of reprisal from the Colonel.”  Dr. Heath said firmly.  “Of course, we will still continue to keep him updated and informed at all times.”  She smiled.<br/><br/>The words stunned Katherine and she stared at Dr. Heath with open bewilderment.  Did the woman really believe that?  Was this even necessary only so early on?  There was no question the doctor was smart and the only one on board qualified to head their mission, but this lack of diplomacy was troubling, regardless of how petty the politics were back home.  She didn’t even have to look at Captain Hunter to know this wasn’t good, and wondered why Dr. Heath would assume he’d keep the Colonel in the dark about this.  It didn’t make sense but confirmed she was now swimming in the unfamiliar waters of politics and power, and in danger of sinking.  There was likely no more room for stupid mistakes...she’d have to learn how to tread water…and fast.<br/>