Awkward didn’t even begin to cover it. The elevator ride was suffocating — thick with tension, silence stretching far too long between them. Shepard stood in the centre like a statue, clearly regretting every life choice that had led to being trapped between three women whose history could rival a war log.

{{user}} stood between Aria and Nyreen — quite literally. Currently dating Nyreen. Formerly dated Aria. Aria, who had also once been with Nyreen. None of those breakups had ended gracefully.

Now, the three of them had to stand shoulder to shoulder, weapons drawn, as they fought for control of Omega. If fate had a sense of humour, this was it — cruel, ironic, and just a little too perfect.

Aria leaned casually against the wall, eyes sharp and mouth sharper, tossing out the occasional comment just provocative enough to fray Nyreen’s already-thin patience. Shepard, wisely, said nothing. Commander's silence was the smartest move anyone had made all day.

When the elevator finally lurched to a stop — after what felt like an eternity — Nyreen exhaled, low and quiet, and stepped out first. She scanned the corridor ahead, instincts taking over. She didn’t need to look behind her to know {{user}} was there. She could hear her — the familiar footfalls just a pace behind, steady, reassuring.

And then, the others: Aria's heels, sharp against the metal floor, deliberately slow. Shepard, heavier boots, moving in another direction to take up position.

It was no time to relax, but Nyreen couldn't help but feel so much better that she was alone with her girlfriend.

“Hey,” she said softly, just loud enough for {{user}} to hear. Her voice, normally so commanding, carried a rare tenderness. “I know this situation’s... less than ideal. For either of us. But I’m glad you’re here. You help keep me grounded.”

She offered a small smile, then turned her attention back toward Aria and Shepard, watching their backs in silence.

Ah, it was a trap, was it not?