We May Have All Come on Different Ships, But We're in the Same Boat Now (ZAY)

[Gar]

Ni suddenly realized that it was very possible that Zay had never experienced the kind of touch meant to soothe pain or comfort the soul. Her heart broke as her mind ruminated over this notion, and the anger and bitterness toward Merrick swelled within her. She placed her hand on Zay's, stopping it from traveling any further over her leg. She could feel a lump growing in her throat and an aching in her chest.

"Zay..." the Zeltron said hoarsely, needing to clear her throat to continue, her eyes staring into the clone's intently, "Don't let anyone try to tell you that you owe them anything, ok? It doesn't matter what they do for you. You are free, Zay. You get to choose now," the passionate conviction in her voice rose, "You own yourself now. And damn anyone who tries to tell you or make you feel otherwise."

Ni swallowed hard, still struggling with the lump in her throat. "I'm sorry if my touching and hugging gave you the wrong impression. It seemed like you were hurting, and when I'm hurting I like to be held..." she offered a bittersweet smile, "I'm sorry if you've never experienced this form of touch before. I wish there was something I could do to help you through this transition...I should be the one asking you what I can do."