When Neal woke up, Vala allowed herself a rather large sigh of relief. She'd been holding it all in - somewhere in between worried sick for how he would recover, and annoyed with herself for being stupid enough to let this all happen in the first place.

But things had gone smoothly. No one was asking questions, and they had left them alone, apparently taking her stupid story at face value. But playing the attentive and devoted wife was a role she had some experience in, so it flattered her in a strange way to think she played it well.

Leaning forward, Vala grabbed his hand and gave it a small squeeze. "That's because we have actual doctors here, Neal." She paused, trying to make sure she got her story straight before she moved on. "There was some kind of malfunction on the ship... I don't really know what happened. But I was just so worried and I didn't even think to turn back. But we're safe now and you're going to be just fine, like I said." She punctuated the news with a proud smile, even though she knew he didn't have any recollection of her comforting words on the ship.