I blinked at him instead, concerned because I wasn’t sure if I could obey him with whatever he was going to do. But he noticed that too. “It’s h...rd, I know. I can offer you the gag to make it easier, but I would really rather you do this one on your own. Do you think you can do that for me, kotik?”I shook my head frantically, but then reconsidered and nodded, clenching my teeth. I really, really wanted to give him what he wanted. It was just a command to not talk, even though he was going to. I am going mad. I must be. Why else would I be like this? The puppet master sends another command and I am powerless. I walk over to where David and sit next to him on the bed. Placing my arm around him I lay my head on his shoulder and say, ‘I told you already, you’re the only man for me and always will be.’ A half smile, ‘Promise?’ Lightly I pull his head closer and lightly place my lips against his murmuring, ‘I promise.’ As I knew he would, David responds. He holds me tight and kisses. Ben knelt behind her. He wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face in her hair."Shh, Mom. It'll be OK," he consoled.Allison looked at her mom and brother, unsure what to do. She glanced at Jack and saw that he had tears in his eyes as he watched the scene before them. Allison turned back to her family."Mom," she said quietly. "Mom, I'm so sorry it had to happen this way."Sharon's sobs continued unabated as if she didn't even hear her daughter's words.Ben lifted his tear-streaked. “We’re safe now too, we’re out of their fire arcs”“I’m recharging shields again John, we’re back up to 62% now!” Sparks chimed in.“Great job, the pair of you” John praised them sincerely.“What happened with the boarding party and why is your face covered in green goop?” Sparks asked him.“They were no match for our surprise Counter-attack!” Alyssa said grinning. “They messed with the wrong marine, right John?”John chuckled good naturedly. “Yeah, I’m wearing Kirrix at the moment” he said, wiping.