Bond

[lepidopterologist]

The doors on the ship were automated, so they didn't slam. But if the doors to Harry's office could have slammed, they would have.

"What the fuck was that?" snapped Harry, standing very close to Bond and glaring at him. "How dare you question my orders in front of the entire bridge crew."

Comments

[lepidopterologist]

Harry honestly wasn't sure he believed that anymore, but he knew it needed to be true.

"That doesn't have to be true for you though," he said quietly. "James... promise me that Q will come first for you. Ahead of the ship. Ahead of me."

[0_0_7]

Bond stopped and looked at him. He looked deep into his eyes and even deeper into his heart.

"Do you know something I don't?" he asked cautiously.

[lepidopterologist]

"No," said Harry, genuinely. "Only that I have a responsibility despite being stupid in love."

[0_0_7]

"Harry, I have absolute faith that if it ever comes to it, you will be true to the ship. I expect nothing less," Bond told him plainly. He knew where he stood. Harry's devotion to London was one of his most alluring characteristics.

[lepidopterologist]

"Yes," Harry said. "And this is precisely why I am glad that you and Q also have each other."

[0_0_7]

That gave Bond pause. He looked at Harry for a long moment.

"Harry, why does it feel like you're trying to back away?" he asked.