“Depression huh?” Connor muttered, grimacing as he scratched behind his neck. “That’s...it explains things.” He said, turning his head to look out into the hangar and shoving his hands into the pockets of his jumpsuit, his shoulders bunching up awkwardly.

Despair, sadness and anger were things that he did not want to think about right now. He wanted those as far away from him as possible. He didn’t want to entertain the idea that when he walked into the office earlier, he was looking at his future.

Like throwing a switch his mind focused on the equations and schematics for the training program Pauline had shown him. Mentally he double checked what he had seen, his lips moving slightly and silently as he rebuilt what he saw in his mind. 

Turning back to Reece and Pauline he looked between the two of them, especially Pauline’s bright and almost pleading face. His mind still rolling around numbers it took him a moment to remember that he had the final say in not only what Pauline would be doing, but also whether or not she could stay.

Connor wanted her to stay, just like he wanted Deli to stay. Both young women were so bright, happy and put out a light energy that was rather infectus. Hell if he had been straight he probably would have flirted with them. Or attempted to. That was one equation he could never crack.

“I don’t mind you staying.” Connor said with a small shrug. “If the training programs need updating then by all means help yourself. From what I’ve seen on that tablet you know what you’re doing.” He chewed a bit on his black lip ring as he mulled over his next thought before saying it, “But I’d rather not have you working on the engines. They required a lot of specialty training and being I’m kind of responsible for the lives and safety of the four crews, as well as the entire fleet, I only want people trained and qualified touching those babies.” 

“Speaking of which I have a cable to replace.” He muttered to himself, rolling his shoulders. He could already feel the familiar knots and aches forming in anticipation for the long work day. “You keep an eye on that cat. I’d hate to have to explain to it’s owner why I’m giving them their pet in a jar.” He said to Pauline, giving her a bit of a smile before turning to his superior and meeting Reece’s eyes. “Do you mind if I excuse myself sir?”