An instant after they rematerialized on the transporter platform, Statzia grabbed K’Naut by the elbow. She didn’t say a word as she pulled him along beside her, exiting the transporter room. Twenty meters down the corridor, she veered left into an alcove, dragging him with her. She spun to face him, releasing his elbow. “I’m not sure what you need to do to keep yourself together, Lieutenant.” She almost spat the last word, knowing she never used his rank when speaking to her bondmate. “But you have one more day. A cold shower, a few hours with a holodeck version of me, I don’t care what you have to do. But don’t you ever act like that towards me on an away mission again.” 

K’Naut was shocked by Statzia’s breach of etiquette, and yet he knew he’d crossed the line on the surface. He’d have to make it up to her, but for now…

He snapped to attention and said, “Ma’am.”

It took all his will to leave it at that and just stalk away down the corridor.