Only One Option
by jackwabbit

Author’s Note: Set just as John and Ronon have to leave Elizabeth in “Lifeline”. I’ve watched that scene a lot, and I’m convinced Ronon bodily drags John out of there. Just saying.

She’s right, you know.

There’s only one way this can go down.

We have to leave her.

I know you know that.

But I also know that knowledge is small comfort. Especially with her.

And I’m sorry.

Really.

I am.

But I’m not sorry enough to let you die here for nothing.

More than that, I’m not sorry enough to abandon McKay and everyone back on Atlantis.

We have to go.

Our deaths won’t accomplish anything. Our escape might.

And not just in the self-preserving way.

This isn’t about us, John. It isn’t about her, either. It can’t be.

I’d die here with you in a heartbeat if it meant Atlantis would survive, but that’s not the situation.

This is a command decision, and only one option makes sense.

You’re usually good at those, even when that option is a horrible one.

That’s why I listen to you.

But not this time.

This time, you’ve got that look I’ve seen too many times in battle.

You can’t let her go.

I understand.

All too well, in fact.

But that doesn’t change what needs to be done here.

So this time, it’s on me.

I only hope you can forgive me.

The End