#third of five

Beverly and Geordi caring for Hugh in the aftermath of his dissimilation surgeries. Because if canon won’t be at all kind to him, I guess it’s up to headcanon. (Reposting this as an after-dinner mint for @startrekpotluck, since it was referenced in my 'fic this year, but not added in the story itself, since the tone really didn't really match up. ;) )

'Choose what I want?

I would choose to stay with Geordi, but it is too dangerous. They will follow.

Return me to the crash site. It is the only way.' - hugh [to picard]

reason:

Jonathan del Arco, Hugh's actor, is a gay man and portrayed Hugh as being in love with Elnor. When recording his scenes with Elnor, he posted a picture of Evan Evagora on his social media with the caption "My Elnor 🌈🌈🌈".

Prior to Season 2's release, Evan Evagora stated he would have liked to explore Elnor's sexuality, implying there's a slim chance that Elnor may have liked Hugh back.

Here is a list of different ways a character could leave a show without dying. With the right script they could all pack an emotional gut punch without rupturing someones spleen.

Prison

Coma

Missing at sea

Witness protection

Disappearing into the woods/Jungle

thinking about Elnor getting to make flower crowns with Kestra and Soji and them braiding daises into his hair.

thinking about Elnor bundled up in a soft blanket on a chilly day.

thinking about Elnor being incredibly fascinated with Hugh's borg implants and scars.