Steve let out a heavy sigh and tried to smile at her again. He hated that look on her face and hated feeling like he'd just ruined her day. Even though Claire wasn't going to be the one retreating to her room for the next few hours.

"I guess I'll see you later, then," he said quietly. And like somebody'd fired a starting pistol, he turned on his heels and rushed towards the door. She'd been perfectly nice to him, given the circumstances, but he couldn't help feeling overwhelmed by emotions-- disappointment, shame, sadness, jealousy and anger, with little traces of optimism trying to remind him that Claire considered him family and wanted them to stay friends. He wanted the hell out of here. And since he'd been able to finally say something conclusive, there was no way he was going to take his time.

At least, that was the plan, but when he reached the end of the conference table there was an abrupt, strange humming sound. Steve slammed face-first into some invisible barrier, clutched a hand to his face and stumbled, falling over backwards on the floor.

There was a strange... thing hanging from the ceiling all of a sudden.

"This is of the utmost importance, and part of ongoing Crew Coherency and Cooperation Studies." A computerized voice spoke.

"Please express affection for your fellow crewmate to free them."

"Please do not attempt to leave the vicinity until you have participated."