A/N: The muse bug bit me while re-watching This Mortal Coil, the look on Sheppard's face when they come back from New Athos. Spun this short scene up. Please critique and let me know what you think, esp. if it seems to be in character. Thanks =D

Rain pattered down the window as a suitcase was slammed onto the bed.

"I can't stand the secrets anymore, John. Communication is the most important part of a relationship."

He stared out the window, his gaze impassive, then turned back to look at the woman near tears standing next to the dresser. She opened the top drawer, dragging all her clothes out and stuffed them into the open bag.

"I can't help it." He started, but didn't trust his voice.

"I know. And that's why I have to move on. I can't sit here and knit by the hearth while my husband is out fighting God knows what and I have absolutely no idea what the hell he is even fighting!"

"You could always crochet."

"John!"

"I know! I would tell you but..."

"What? National Security? Terrorism? Why do you always have to play the hero? Why can't you just be there for me?" she put her hand up. "Don't answer that. I know, you have to prove something to yourself."

"Don't psychoanalyze me Nancy."

"Maybe, just face your demons, get help from…" She pleaded, a tear slipping down her cheek.

"I don't need a shrink." He crossed his arms in front of him; anger furrowing his brow.

"Maybe you do." She walked off into the bathroom, leaving him to stare at the halfway filled suitcase sitting on his side of the bed.

"Nancy, we can make it work. Come on, just another chance." He implored as he followed her.

"I did! Months ago. I just kept telling myself it's alright, he's coming home tonight. Every time the phone rings when you are gone, every time there is a knock at the door, every time I see one of those government issued cars, my heart freezes, my throat tightens. I care too much John, and that's why I have to leave." Another couple tears slipped down her cheek.

"I…"

"No, I'm leaving now." She walked back to the packed bag, tossed in the last few things, and then zipped it up.

"Nancy." He tried again, the helplessness washing over his face, but she missed it as she left the room.

After hearing the door slam, he sat down on the edge of the bed and let his head fall into his hands.