Summary: The Captain loses her pip which leads to a number of adventures. A bit of a take off on "Someone To Watch Over Me" but only because a few of the characters were borrowed for this fantasy...
Copyright 2000 Cassatt
Captain Kathryn Janeway was preparing for a meeting with the Kadi emissary. She was in her quarters putting on her dress uniform, straightening the tunic, polishing her shoes. Her hair was giving her fits today, she couldn't seem to get it to lay the way she liked. It just looked too hard or something. Running out of time, she quickly attached her four pips just below the gold braid, checked herself once more in the mirror and headed out the door to the bridge.
Chakotay was running through the same routine in his quarters. Man, he hated these dress uniform occasions. The tunic drove him crazy, it felt so stiff. Regular uniforms were bad enough, in his opinion, this dress thing was awful. And though he was not going down to the planet with Kathryn and Tuvok, he had to make his appearance as First Officer. He had some misgivings about this Kadi culture, they were awfully rigid in their customs. He also had his usual anxieties about Kathryn leaving the ship for the Kadi planet. He checked himself in the mirror and decided he looked good enough, left his quarters for the bridge.
As Chakotay walked on to the bridge, Kathryn was in tight conference with Harry at his console. He assumed she was going over some last minute details of scans she wanted performed on the planet while she was away. Even though he hated these uniforms, he had to admit that on Kathryn, they looked good. Her auburn hair was nicely accented by the gold braid and the cut of the jacket looked particularly fine on her. Uh oh, he was starting to day dream about her again. He smiled to himself and went to sit in his chair, pretending to look intently at his console. He could feel Kathryn's presence behind him. Even if he hadn't seen her with Harry, he would have known where she was, it was a bit uncanny.
Kathryn finished talking with Harry and started down the steps. She finally noticed the dark headed man sitting in the chair next to hers and felt her heart skip just a bit. As she passed his shoulder she had the urge to squeeze it, which she quickly subdued. Goodness, Chakotay certainly is doing something seriously on his console. She walked in front of him and turned to take a look at her Commander. Her heart skipped another little beat when she saw him in his dress uniform. He really looked handsome in it, it seemed to set off his dark looks spectacularly, she had to admit.
"So, Commander, are you ready to meet the Kadi?"
His eyes turned upward to meet hers. "Well, Captain, I believe I am. I just hope there are no surprises on this mission. I'd like for us to have a smooth few days."
"I know what you mean, believe me. But everything seems ready. I know I am."
"You look like you are." but as he looked at her more closely something was wrong. He couldn't quite put his finger on it.... Oh my god, she only has three pips. "Kathryn, have you demoted yourself? You've lost one of your pips." He was grinning at her.
"Oh no, Chakotay -- really? Oh goodness, I need to find it and fast! The Kadi will be here in less than 30 minutes... help me look, would you?"
She bent over to look in the cushion of her seat, and Chakotay took a second to watch her. He stopped himself just as quickly before anyone noticed then started to scan the floor. She didn't find it in her chair and started swearing softly to herself. He loved it when she swore. Probably the Maquis in him.
After 5 minutes of quick searching of the bridge floor and Harry's console they met back at their command seats. Kathryn's panic was rising. Not having the proper rank on her uniform would be a disaster with the rigid Kadi, almost an insult. They had already reviewed a preliminary data base that contained non-technical information about Starfleet, the Federation and Voyager. Voyager needed the minerals on Kadi, they had to get them. Okay, Kathryn, she asked herself, where have you been since you got dressed?
"Chakotay, I'm going to check the ready room, would you help me there?"
He followed her dashing form into her office. She was already looking everywhere around her desk, on the floor, on her seat. He felt a little bit useless, but made an attempt to look on the rest of the carpet. "Damn!" he heard from below the desk.
She raised her head, her cheeks flushed. She looks beautiful. His heart skipped a beat.
"We'll find it, Kathryn, lets retrace your steps a little further. Turbolift? Quarters?"
"Right" she said, and off she trotted. He was right behind her, chuckling to himself. I'll follow you anywhere...
The turbolift was empty of stray pips. Going down the hall towards her quarters, they kept their eyes glued to the floor, but didn't find anything. She opened the door with Chakotay immediately behind her. She could hear his breathing, practically in her ear. She got a whiff of his scent, sort of a musky smell, a little sweet, and one that she liked. She thought it must be his aftershave because he usually smelled the same. Walking through the door she was distracted by thoughts of Chakotay shaving....
"Kathryn?" Oops, she shook herself. Back to floor searching.
She retraced her steps into the bedroom with Chakotay close behind. And finally, there it was! On the floor, right in front of the mirror, thank God. As she stooped over to get it, Chakotay beat her to it. They bumped shoulders, she had to stifle the urge to giggle.
Straightening up their eyes met. They both saw sparkling color, he saw blue crystals, she saw deep brown onyx.
"May I help you put this on, Kathryn?" he said quietly to her.
Kathryn felt herself blush a little, suddenly feeling awkward. She realized with a start this was the first time he had been in her bedroom. Thank goodness she kept it neat. She wondered if he would notice that Mark's photo was nowhere to be seen. She wasn't sure if that would be a good thing or not.
"Yes, of course. Thank you." and she moved closer to him, putting her chest out a bit and turning her head.
Chakotay savored the moment of being so close to her. He took in her scent, which he couldn't quite identify. Lavendar? Not entirely... something slightly mysterious that he'd never been able to figure out. He wished he had the nerve to ask her. Well, why the hell didn't he? He was a Maquis for pity's sake.
"Kathryn, what is that scent you're wearing?" She actually blushed! Is that a good sign or a bad one?
"Well... I don't know if I should tell you... I mean my mother always told me that a woman of mystery was enticing..." Uh oh, she's flirting - And she is looking so lovely .... "But I guess I can. It's my shampoo. I brought it with me from Indiana and I've been replicating it ever since. A shameful waste of replicator rations I know, but I can't seem to help myself. A small shop in town makes their own blends of toiletries using local herbs and flowers." She was gazing at him.
"I don't think its a waste of rations at all. It smells wonderful." Kathryn saw that small smile raising up the corners of his mouth and felt a warm feeling in her chest. He really looks spectacular in that uniform tunic. Uh oh, she had to get moving....
"Here, Chakotay, let me" and she tried to get the pip away from him.
"Hey! I found it and I get to do the honors. Stand still..."
He moved a little closer to her and pulled her tunic braid away a bit, putting the pip stem in the fabric and gently attaching the clasp on the inside. He wanted to stroke her cheek and feel the softness of her skin against his hand. He reached out to smooth down some of her hair that had become mussed, not even thinking about what he was doing. When he met her eyes he saw wariness there, then a softer look.
"Excuse me, Kathryn. Just trying to help our Captain to look her best for the Kadi."
She winked at him. Did she just wink at me?
"Thank you, Chakotay, for taking such good care of me. This Captain is grateful to her Commander, once again." She smiled that lopsided smile of hers that made his heart melt. She reached up and smoothed the front of his tunic, resting her hands for a split second longer than necessary. He groaned to himself. Kathryn, don't do that. You touch me again and I swear I am going to kiss you so deeply it will make your knees buckle...
But she didn't move her hands. Left them resting on his chest, burning a hole through his tunic. Looking up at him with those blue eyes of hers. He bent over and put his lips to hers.
Kathryn realized with a start that she had just given Chakotay the opening he probably had been waiting for, or that she had been waiting for?.... His kiss was so tender, and soft, she found herself returning it, feeling a warmth spread throughout her body... She pressed her mouth a little harder against his and felt him respond. Their kisses continued, back and forth. She felt his arms wrap around her. She reached up and put hers around his neck and they melted into one another.
Their mouths began to open, tongues exploring the inside contours. Kathryn felt her legs go weak. Chakotay felt himself falling off the the top of the mesa. All of their feelings for each other came out in a rush of longing, and love... they pulled more tightly together...
"Captain to the transporter room" came shouting over the comm from very far away.
Go away, Kathryn thought to herself. She felt Chakotay pull his mouth back
"Kathryn" he said softly in her ear "we have to go.."
Oh Chakotay, couldn't you just keep talking to me like that, I love your voice so. She kept her arms around his neck and put her head to his chest. After a second or two, he gently pulled her arms off and she looked up into his face. What she saw there made all of her previous reservations disappear. If eyes truly were windows to the soul, then she just saw the most wondrous thing. He really did love her, and she knew without a doubt that she really did love him. It is all so very simple...
Chakotay looked down at her and, meeting her eyes, felt a rush of joy fill his heart. She loves me, I'm sure of it. Ancestors, please don't take this away from me... Not again. He smiled at her and tried to contain himself. He felt like picking her up and spinning around and around and around, shouting at the top his lungs She Loves Me! Big Maquis warrior, you are, Chakotay. He laughed out loud. She joined him.
"Tuvok to the Captain. Captain, the Kadi will be arriving in 5 minutes. I suggest you and the Commander, how do you say it, get a move on?"
Kathryn giggled. Tuvok must have had the computer locate them... "Oops, busted!" She tapped her comm "Thank you Tuvok, we're on our way."
"Okay, Chakotay, do I still look good enough to meet the Kadi? Or is my uniform wrinkled?" She quickly turned to look in the mirror. Her heart jumped at the sight of the two of them standing together. Is this what the crew sees when they look at us? She was well aware of people's opinions about her and Chakotay... They wanted their Captain and their Commander together, she had no doubt. She didn't think Chokatay had any either. We really do make a very handsome couple... She sighed.
"Kathryn, I won't say what you really look good enough for, but I will admit it has nothing to do with the Kadi. You look perfect."
"Thank you, Chakotay, for -- putting me together. So .... I guess we'll need to talk when I get back? Wait for me?"
"I'll be right here, anxiously awaiting your return. Promise me you'll be careful?"
"Absolutely."
With that, they dashed out the door and ran to the turbolift. As the doors closed, Chakotay quickly leaned over Kathryn and kissed her, briefly and warmly. "I love you, Kathryn" he whispered in her ear. She felt her knees go weak. She gave him a big smile "I love you, Chakotay." He grinned at her, dimples flashing.
The door swooshed open and they hurried down to the transporter room, smoothing their tunics and their hair, dashing through the door to stand with Tuvok and Neelix, trying to catch their breath. Neelix looked at them askance, wondering at the flush in their cheeks. My, they looked excited. I guess they really like diplomacy!
And as Kathryn and Tuvok stood on the transporter platform 10 minutes later, waiting to beam down to the planet with the Kadi high praetor, Chakotay met her eyes. Be careful, I love you, good luck he said to her with a small wink. I love you, I'll be fine, take good care of the ship and the crew she sent back to him with a wink of her own. Just before she shimmered away out of his sight. Chakotay felt a little stab in his chest and took a deep breath.
He didn't notice Neelix looking at him out of the corner of his eye while talking to the ambassador. Chakotay, of course, missed seeing Neelix notice the winks and the looks. He turned to the ambassador to tell him he could be found on the bridge if he was needed. It was then that he noticed Neelix looking at him a little strangely, with a grin on his face.
Chakotay dismissed the incident and, thinking about Kathryn, left for the bridge via his quarters where he removed his tunic and put on his daily uniform. As he moved his Commander's bar from dress to standard, he smiled to himself. One little missed pip, falling to the floor of Kathryn's quarters, and everything changed. An act of the Ancestors? Coincidence? He didn't think so. The planets had very definitely been put in alignment in the last hour, he could feel it in his bones.
Kathryn materialized on the planet with Tuvok and the high praetor. She felt a small ache in her chest not seeing Chakotay's smiling face in front of her. In the very next moment, she felt almost giddy. Kathryn get that stupid grin off your face or you'll blow this entire deal. She took a breath, put on her Captain's face and went to work.
Tuvok and the Captain did their best work in these circumstances. They were deferential, charming - well at least Kathryn was charming - and shrewd. They asked the correct questions thanks to Neelix's briefing on the Kadi society. They were well prepared for the negotiations, knowing exactly what Voyager could do without in exchange for the minerals they needed. The day proceeded according to schedule and soon late afternoon was upon them. They were due to attend a reception in their honor and Kathryn realized she really was not looking forward to it.
The Kadi had strict rules about pretty much everything in their lives. They actually reminded Kathryn of a small religious sect. They abhored anything that wasn't plain - food, clothing, music, houses - anything you could imagine. She couldn't live like this, but she respected their choice to do so. She and Tuvok had been given small and spare quarters in the praetor's residence for the night. She was in hers, taking a brief rest and some time to herself before the reception. She removed her tunic and hung it on the chair, brushing her finger on the magical pip. If I hadn't lost it in my quarters... What would have happened?
She reached down and tapped her comm badge. "Computer, secure channel, locate Commander Chakotay." From her badge she heard "Commander Chakotay is in his quarters."
"Computer, keep secure channel open. Janeway to Commander Chakotay." Her heart was beating a little fast.
"Hello, Kathryn. How is everything going? How are you?" Kathryn's heart did a flip-flop at the sound of his voice.
"Things are going well. Chakotay, I'm speaking to you over a secure channel so I could, well, you know, talk privately with you. How are you? How's the crew, the ship? You?..."
"Well... Aside from the fire in the mess hall, Tom doing some kamikazi maneuvers for the ambassador, the Doctor giving him a rendition of "Speak to Me Only With Thine Eyes", everything is fine. Just kidding, Kathryn... Voyager is as smooth as ever. I, however, am suffering some acute distress in my chest region... Missing you..."
Kathryn laughed to herself imagining the Doctor singing to the ambassador. "I miss you, too. This is bad, Chakotay -- I just saw you this morning -- it feels like a week ago. Tomorrow feels like forever. What are you doing right now?"
"I'm sitting here on my couch, looking out the viewport at the planet, wondering where you are down there. Getting ready to go to the mess hall for the ambassador's reception. Ugh, it means I have to put on that dress uniform again. I hate that thing, Kathryn - it is so uncomfortable..."
"But Chakotay, between you and me? You look incredibly handsome in it. I bet all of the women at the reception are going to be staring at you with pure lust in their hearts! I'll have to ask B'Elanna for a report when I get back - she can fill me in on how many hearts you break tonight.." She laughed.
"Kathryn! I am not in the habit of breaking hearts. Yours included, and that's a promise you can count on." His voice took on a quiet, serious tone. "You are a part of me, I am a part of you. Nothing will ever change that. I'll tell B'Elanna to put that in her report so you can see it in writing..."
Kathryn felt her throat constrict. She loved this man so. In one day, everything had changed, her eyes had been opened and the light she saw was blinding. "Thank you, Chakotay. I love you..." She didn't want to end the conversation. She knew she was expected soon at the reception, acting cool and composed. She longed to be back on Voyager, sitting with Chakotay in his quarters, curled up together on the couch, talking about everything and nothing.
"Kathryn, are you all right?"
"I'm fine, just a little homesick that's all. Wanting to be with you right now instead of heading off to be the Captain."
"Well, I'll be here with you tomorrow. Go get 'em, Kathryn - you'll be fine tonight. They won't know what hit them, they will be so dazzled by your aura and your command presence. You can do it with your eyes closed."
She took a deep breath and felt her spirits lifted. He was right, she was just as much Captain as she was Kathryn. She would sail through tonight and before she knew it, morning would be here and she could go home, to him and Voyager. "Thank you, Chakotay, again. I feel much better. Good luck to you tonight, I hope everything goes well."
"Showering you with praise and words of support is the easy part of my job, Kathryn. And it's a job I take very very personally. I love you. I miss you. Hurry home."
"I love you, too, and miss you like crazy. I'll see you in the morning. Good night, Chakotay."
"I look forward to welcoming you back, in private. Good night, Kathryn."
Reluctantly, she tapped her comm. "Computer, end secure channel." She
sat on her bed and pulled her knees up, wrapping her arms around them and
putting her head down. She rocked herself slowly back and forth, thinking
about this amazing Maquis warrior that had come into her life and slowly
turned it upside down. She wouldn't have had it any other way.
Chapter Two
The Kadi high praetor was speaking with his wife in their bedroom while
getting ready for the reception.
Captain Janeway had been in her room for a little less than an hour,
Commander Tuvok was downstairs in
the library perusing the religious tracts there.
"But Ramlu, I heard her. She was talking to a man in the most intimate fashion."
"The Captain is in there alone I believe. Commander Tuvok hasn't been upstairs and it certainly couldn't be anyone else here in the house. You must be mistaken. The Captain is not married."
"I am not mistaken. I couldn't hear everything but I know what a woman's voice sounds like in that situation, I've heard the servants gossiping. You may think that everyone on this planet believes in abstenance and purity but that isn't always the case..."
"And again, dear wife, how could the Captain be talking to a man in her room when she is alone?"
"I'm certain I don't know. Either way, she was talking with a man and he was talking with her, and they sounded... intimate. Inferences were made about what they would 'do' to each other... And if she is not married, well then, there you have it."
Ramlu the high praetor pondered this while he finished dressing. There they had it, indeed.
Chakotay, in his dress uniform, was heading for the mess hall and the reception. Distracted with thoughts of Kathryn down on the planet, of Kathryn coming home in the morning, of how this change in their relationship would play out, of Kathryn in his bed ... he didn't see B'Elanna until she ran right into him in the corridor.
Startled out of his reverie he helped her get up from the floor, apologizing profusely.
"It's okay big guy. I'm sure you have a good reason for being a million light years away." She smirked.
He stared at her. "What the hell does that mean, B'El?"
"Nothing, honestly. Sorry. It's been a strange day. Ready for the reception?"
Chakotay looked at her for a minute more. "I guess so. Not looking forward to it, but ready. I'm sorry for bowling you over."
"No problem, I've heard you've been doing that a lot today..." She strode down the corridor smiling to herself before he could answer her.
Chakotay stared at her back. Something was definitely afoot and he planned to find out exactly what it was. Probably another rumour was running rampant through the crew. This time, however, it appeared to be about him. Damn.
Kathryn woke with a start, trying to remember where she was. Coming to consciousness she thought about the day. The warmth she felt in the stuffy room had nothing to do with the ambient temperature and had everything to do with a certain man orbiting above the planet. Her finger itched to tap her comm. She restrained herself.
There was a knock on her door. She greeted Tuvok reluctantly.
"Good evening, Captain. I trust you had a good rest?"
"Good enough, Tuvok. The bed is a little hard for my taste. How soon until the reception?"
"I believe we are expected in approximately 15 minutes."
"All right. I'll go freshen up and meet you downstairs by then."
"Very good, Captain."
The high praetor Ramlu was in conference with the council, his closest advisors. There was no consensus as to the action required. Ramlu felt strongly that the Captain should be made an example for other races attempting to trade with the Kadi. He knew leaving the conference he was mostly on his own, a position not unfamiliar to him. The council would hear the case but he would present it.
He contacted security upon returning to his home.
Coming into the mess hall Chakotay was aware of conversations stopping. Not every one, but a few. One of those just ending was between Tom and Neelix at the galley door.
"Okay, you two, what is going on? I want answers, now."
"Chakotay, my friend, why do you think something is going on? Neelix and I were just going over details for the ambassador."
"Speaking of whom, where is he?"
Neelix caughed discreetly. "Well, Commander, actually... He's on the holodeck. At Sandrine's. I can't get him out of there."
"Well, perhaps between the two of you someone can bring him back to reality. But if you think this is going to distract me from finding out the latest gossip, which I am certain involves Me, you'd better think twice. I know who will talk..." Chakotay turned to leave.
Tom stopped him with a hand on his arm. "Chakotay..."
"Yes?"
Tom shook his head. "Nothing."
Chakotay left and once in the corridor located B'Elanna through the comm. She answered her door immediately.
"Chakotay, look I'm sorry for teasing you earlier. Tom tells me you're wondering what the latest scuttlebutt is. I think you might not want to know this one."
"Why not, for God's sake?"
"Because I think this time it's true."
"What the hell do you mean?"
"You and the Captain. It's about you two."
"But that rumour's been around off and on for years..."
"So?"
"So... Why do you think it's true now?"
"One word - Neelix."
Chakotay, luckily, couldn't blush. "Oh." He tugged his ear.
"Exactly."
"So how far has this gone?" All he could think was how upset Kathryn was going to be. They hadn't even really started and already they were the topic of the day. "Damn!"
"Chakotay, it'll be okay. It's not too far, just the senior staff. So how far did you get?" She grinned mischievously.
"Damn it, B'Elanna!" He stormed out of her quarters.
Uh oh. "Lt. Torres to Lt. Paris..."
Two Kadi security guards knocked on the Captain's door. Upon opening it, she was physically removed from the room with no explanation. She traveled just across the green from the house to a building which she assumed was some sort of detention facility. The room she was left in didn't look too different from her "guest" accomodations, but the door was locked behind her. Stunned, she tried to gather her wits. Her comm badge was still on her tunic, draped over the chair where she had left it, out of her reach.
"Lt. Commander Tuvok to Commander Chakotay."
"Yes, Mr. Tuvok?"
"I'm afraid we have a situation on our hands, Commander. The Captain has been taken into custody..."
"WHAT?!"
"I have not been given a satisfactory explanation as to the high praetor's reason for locking Captain Janeway up, and I will continue to press the matter."
Chakotay attempted to calm himself with a few really deep breaths.
"Commander, are you all right?"
"Yes, Tuvok, I think so. I'm coming down there."
"Are you certain that is a wise decision?"
"Yes, I do. Lt. Paris and Ensign Kim can handle the bridge and we'll be in constant contact. The Kadi ambassador is proving to be quite a handful, but I'll fill you in on that when I see you. Chakotay out."
Chapter Three
Tuvok and Chakotay had a chance to talk outside after the beam-down. Tales of the out of control ambassador were told and both men agreed to keep this information in their back pocket, so to speak. Chakotay allowed Tuvok to continue taking the lead in communications but insisted that they, or he alone, see the Captain as soon as possible.
"Commander, I am certain that she is being well treated. However, I do concur that we need to speak with her. She does not have her comm badge - I believe it is still in her guest room here. Perhaps retrieving that is the first order of business."
"Where was her room? I'll go and get it while you talk with Ramlu."
"Let us attempt to get Ramlu to voluntarily hand it over first."
"I apologize Mr. Tuvok. I guess I'm a little more upset than is productive at the moment."
Tuvok stared at Chakotay for a minute. "I believe I understand, Commander. Your relationship with Captain Janeway has changed again, has it not?"
Chakotay threw up his hands in frustration. "Is there anyone on Voyager who doesn't know that?! Kath...Captain Janeway is not going to be happy about this. The senior staff up there is telling tales about us... And now this... Gods above, could this get any worse? Don't answer that, Tuvok!"
"Commander, the Captain needs you to stay focused. You are her strongest source of support - now more than ever. I will do everything I can to bring a positive resolution to this situation."
Chakotay put his hands over his face and slowed his breathing, using some of his meditation techniques. After a minute or two, he felt more grounded. Angry, but grounded. "Thank you, Tuvok. Let's go 'talk' to Ramlu."
The high praetor Ramlu sat stiffly behind his desk looking at the two senior officers from Voyager. The Vulcan Tuvok he felt some kinship with but the Commander with the ...adornment... on his forehead seemed quite emotional under his calm exterior. Ramlu felt some unease looking at him.
"High praetor. I believe that both the Captain and myself have conducted ourselves with propriety while here. We have acted in good faith. I request that you return the favor and in good faith tell us why you have locked up Captain Janeway and allow us to see her."
"Well, Mr. Tuvok, there is propriety and then there is propriety."
Chakotay mentally shook his head in frustration. He's got Kathryn and he's speaking in riddles...
"I am afraid I do not understand your implication."
"I will concur that you acted with propriety, but I have information that Captain Janeway did not. She partook in actions that can only be deemed as offensive to the sensibilities of my household, my wife in particular. She must be made to face the consequences."
"Would you care to be more specific?"
Chakotay was astounded once again at Tuvok's calm exterior. Only someone familiar with the Vulcan would detect the slight change in tone to know how angry he probably was. This gave Chakotay some comfort.
"I don't know if that would be wise. The two of you, being men, should not be privy to the information."
What the hell is he talking about? Chakotay's fists were starting to clench.
"I do not think there is anything you can say about Captain Janeway that would shock either of us. We are the people she is closest to, and have lived and worked with her for years. I would like you to tell us what happened."
The high praetor gazed at them over his fingertips. "I have a question first. Is the Captain married? I believe not, but I want to be sure."
Chakotay sputtered. "What does her marital status have to do with any of this, high praetor?"
"It is vital. Is she married?"
Tuvok put himself back in the line of questioning. "No, high praetor, Captain Janeway is not married. And I agree with Commander Chakotay in wondering what influence that fact has on the situation we are facing."
"Well, only married women should be heard talking of ... intimate things ... with a man. Your Captain was heard to do so with an unknown man, here in this house."
Chakotay stared at this insane fellow across the desk. He slowly turned to face Tuvok, who raised an eyebrow at him and cocked his head just a bit. Chakotay could merely shake his head in disbelief and subtly point his thumb toward his chest. Tuvok nodded equally subtly.
"High praetor, as I understand it the Captain was in her room with the door closed at all times while she was out of my sight. How is it that anyone heard her conversation?"
"My wife heard it, through the air system."
Chakotay put his hand over his mouth in an effort to keep himself quiet. He wanted to shake this nasty minded little praetor until his teeth rattled.
"I see. And thus, your wife was offended. And she has assured you that the talk was on topics that could be considered lascivious?"
"Most certainly."
Chakotay could stand it no longer. "Now wait just a minute! What exactly do you consider 'lascivious'? Saying 'I love you'?"
Ramlu looked at Chakotay through slits. "And how do you know what the Captain was saying?"
Tuvok put his hand on Chakotay's arm, startling him. Tuvok rarely touched anyone. He met the Vulcan's eyes and after a moment, conceded to keep his mouth shut.
"High praetor, the Commander is merely stating what he assumes the Captain would probably say, to whomever she was speaking. As I said, he and the Captain have been working side by side daily for years and they know each other very well."
Ramlu didn't look reassured. "Well, either way, your Captain will be held accountable to the council tomorrow morning. She can then explain her actions and they will make the necessary punishment."
"Since the Captain is going to remain in your custody, we have two requests, which I'm sure you will consider fair. The first is to take Captain Janeway her uniform tunic, for we believe it will not only keep her warm but will give her a measure of comfort. The second is to see her personally, both of us. On this point, we insist, as representatives of the United Federation of Planets."
The high praetor studied the two Voyager men across from him. He thought he was beginning to understand the personal dynamics playing out before his eyes, but he wasn't certain. What consequence it would be if the Commander was the man in question he couldn't be sure. That would be up to the council. He was merely the prosecutor. He decided to grant them their requests for no harm could come of it.
"All right, I will allow you to see the Captain and take her the uniform."
Chakotay let out the breath he wasn't aware he had been holding. He and Tuvok rose after thanking Ramlu and headed for the guest room.
Though Tuvok was the one who opened the door and stepped in first he deferred to Chakotay to gather the Captain's uniform and personal items. Chakotay quickly repacked her small bag and tenderly pulled her tunic off the chair, brushing his finger over the pips. He folded it neatly and held it tightly against his chest. Tuvok again touched his arm.
"We will bring the Captain home, Commander, one way or the other. If we have to beam her out we will. This planet can't be the only one with the minerals we need."
"Thank you, Tuvok. If I have to personally carry her home, I'll do it. Voyager needs her. I need her. Let's go."
The guard unlocked the door to Kathryn's 'cell'. She sat up quickly on the bed and looked shocked to see not only Tuvok but Chakotay. It took every ounce of his control to stand there and not take her in his arms.
"Chakotay..." She rose with tears in her eyes and put her hands out.
"Kathryn" he whispered. "I can't touch you, please act as though I am merely your first officer. We'll explain." And loudly he said "Captain, please have a seat and Tuvok and I will tell you what you are in here for." The door was closed and locked behind them.
She nodded calmly and sat. Chakotay handed her the tunic giving her fingers a quick squeeze. She put on the uniform and felt better. Tuvok placed her bag on the bed next to her. She met both pairs of eyes gratefully, they radiated strength to her which she desperately needed just then. Tuvok spoke.
"Captain, it appears as though your conversation this afternoon was overheard by the high praetor's wife. Through the air ventilation system. You are being accused of speaking inappropriately to a member of the opposite sex. Speaking of things only a married woman should think, much less say."
Kathryn's mouth hung open in disbelief. "Only a married woman should say? Like what? 'I love you'? What the hell else did I say for God's sake?" She hissed. She looked at the man she loved questioningly.
Chakotay shrugged his shoulders in return. He tried to recall the specific content. He suddenly remembered talk of how handsome he looked in his tunic and the lustful crew members. Uh oh. And something he said about being a part of each other, twisted it could sound as though they were already intimate. A fine line which at this point seemed irrevelant.
"Chakotay, what? What are you remembering?" Kathryn whispered.
"Something about how I look in this tunic and some female crew members who would be lusting after me... And then about us being a part of each other... And a few other things..." The conversation continued in whispered tones.
Kathryn blushed. "Oh no, you're right, those don't sound good. Then you said you looked forward to welcoming me home in private... I'm in deep, aren't I? I mean aside from all the 'I love you's' and the talk of being in your quarters.... This is bad..."
"This is ridiculous more than it is bad, and it's making me feel very much a Maquis right now!" He hissed. "I'd dearly love to wring a certain praetor's neck..."
Tuvok, comprehending their conversation a bit more, agreed with her. "Captain, I would have to concur that if they had a transcript of your ... colorful... conversation this would be very bad. We have to decide how to handle this."
Kathryn was suddenly acutely embarrassed that Tuvok was hearing all of this. She blushed deeply and twisted her hands in her lap. "Tuvok... I'm sorry. I let my all too human emotions put this entire diplomatic mission in jeopardy. I just ... needed to talk to Chakotay. I missed him and I thought using a secure comm channel would be discreet enough."
Chakotay was up and sitting by her side in an instant. Tuvok attempted to stop him but he shook off the restraining hand. "Kathryn," he whispered, "Don't. Don't apologize, don't feel ashamed. We did nothing wrong by any standards that count. Be angry, but don't be guilty, please. Guilt will destroy us before we even have the chance to begin..." He pleaded with his eyes. She met his gaze steadily then her face softened and the blue irises swirled in response.
Tuvok turned to stand with his back to them, facing the door. Partly to give them privacy and partly feeling the need to protect them both from the unknown danger outside the room.
High praetor Ramlu was watching the drama playing out on his viewscreen which he raised from the surface of his desk. The three Voyager people were talking too softly to hear the conversation but he had a good view of the room. And the details in their facial expressions.
Captain Janeway looked quite distraught. He hadn't missed the way she reached out for the Commander when he walked into the room. So his suspicions were well founded. At least she hadn't been talking with someone from Kadi. And now there was this little tussle between the Commander and the Vulcan. Emotions out of control. Disgusting.
His wife came into the room determined to see what was happening. He tried to stop her but she resisted his attempts and stood behind him, eyes riveted to the screen.
And now they both saw the truth. The Commander was sitting next to Captain Janeway with his arms around her shoulders. She had her face buried in his chest and her arms around him, too. The Commander was talking in low tones to her, gently rocking her back and forth, occasionally kissing her hair. The Captain appeared to be crying. It was more than Ramlu could take. He looked with disgust at the Vulcan who stood with his back to the couple, watching the door. He reached for the power controls.
"No, Ramlu, don't turn it off. I want to see what happens..." He spun around to look at his wife. She was transfixed by the scene and he swore her eyes looked... wet.
"Why would you want to bother your mind with this ..." He couldn't even describe it adequately.
"I don't know. I think perhaps I should make a visit to Captain Janeway before retiring."
Ramlu looked steadily at his wife but she would not meet his eyes. He returned to the screen.
"Thank you Chakotay. I guess I needed that. I promise, no guilt." She gave him a radiant smile as she sat up.
"That's the Kathryn I love." He beamed back at her with both dimples, dying to kiss her but knowing that would push it. She reached up and touched his lips gently. He did kiss them. She responded with a wink and a silently spoken "I love you."
She stood up and tapped Tuvok on the shoulder. "Thank you as well, Tuvok. For your support and your discretion."
"You always have that Captain. And I agree with the Commander, feelings of guilt and remorse will do you no good. Shall we proceed with our plans?"
"By all means." And the three put their heads together.
Kathryn was adamant. "I can't just beam out of here as much as I'd love to. If I go along with this little drama they've got me in, perhaps the trading mission can continue. Maybe I'm grasping at straws, maybe not. All I know is that if we just leave then all hope is lost."
"But Kathryn, what about the punishment phase of this? Are you planning on going along with that as well? Because I can guarantee you that the high praetor is not going to back down."
"The Commander is correct in his assessment. Offending his spouse has apparently sincerely affected Ramlu. However, we do always have our, what did you call it Commander?"
"Our trump card. The ambassador up on Voyager. Kathryn, he is enjoying his time away from the strict structure of Kadi society a little too much I'm afraid. I left Neelix and Tom trying to prise him out of Sandrine's."
"I see. Sounds like a very good trump card. Okay, I'll agree to save that one for the morning after we get a better idea of how my little trial is going. And I still plan on going through with this trial. In the absolute worst case scenario, beam me out. But until that point, I stay here."
Chakotay regarded her quietly. "All right, I'll support you on that. On one condition. You and I have an open comm link at all times, secure channel, so I can monitor what they are doing to you if anything. Agreed? Tuvok?"
"A wise decision Commander."
"Yes. I agree." Kathryn didn't want either of them to see how much she wanted that open comm connection with Chakotay. She didn't want to feel alone tonight.
"Good. Now, Kathryn, I hate to go but I had better get back up to the ship. Gods only know what chaos is reigning by now. And one more thing. I don't want to upset you, but with the open link you'll be hearing my conversations. The senior staff is apparently running with the rumour that you and I are now an official item. Neelix started it, and I intend to finish it, or at least stop it before it travels to the rest of the crew if it hasn't already. I'm sorry, Kathryn, I know how much you value our privacy. I'll do the best I can to control the situation."
Kathryn threw up her hands in quiet frustration. She shook her head at Chakotay. "This has been quite a day, hasn't it? Damn it, we might as well just make a Delta Quadrant wide announcement at this rate. I guess there's no turning back now, huh?" She grinned at him.
"Don't you even dare!" He grinned back.
"I wouldn't dream of it. Well, good luck, Chakotay. I'll be interested to hear how it goes. Talk to you later?"
"Captain, Commander, I suggest that Mr. Kim turn the volume down considerably on the comm channel?"
They both laughed silently and nodded in agreement. After another quick
squeeze of hands, Chakotay knocked on the door to be let out. He then headed
for a dark spot on the grounds and beamed back to the ship. Tuvok stayed
for a few minutes more then headed back to the praetor's residence, hoping
he could still spend the night in his 'guest' quarters.
Part 3
Chapter Four
Chakotay went immediately to the bridge where Harry opened the comm
link with Kathryn, volume on low.
After telling Tom and Harry about the meeting, he then headed off to
call the rest of the senior staff to the
briefing room, allowing Neelix an out to take care of the ambassador.
Chakotay had to tell his staff in person
to keep the secure comm link open, but didn't mind the walk a bit.
He was pent up with nervous energy. He
took a few opportunities in the lift to talk quietly with Kathryn.
He found he quite liked having her always there with him.
In the mess hall, Neelix informed Chakotay that he had managed to get Sandrine's shut down, but not before the ambassador got fairly drunk. He was sleeping some of it off in his quarters and he had accosted Seven with sexual innuendos. Chakotay shook his head, but secretly was glad - Seven would be a good witness if they needed her. Back in the corridors, Kathryn was chuckling.
In engineering, Chakotay found B'Elanna working on a minor problem that likely could have been done by one of her staff. She told him that since Tom and Harry were still working she would, too. Besides, she was feeling guilty about riding him so mercilessly earlier in the evening.
"B'El, that's part of what I need to talk to you about in the briefing. About the rumour. I need you there asap."
"No problem, I'll be right behind you."
Once more in the lift, Kathryn spoke up.
"So, what exactly was B'Elanna riding so mercilessly? Hm-m-m?"
"Kathryn, how can you even make such an innuendo? You are the only one... Uh oh, better stop right there."
"Deck six." The computer intoned. Swoosh. Kathryn was giggling softly, enjoying herself immensely. This was actually kind of fun...
In cargo bay two, Chakotay disconnected Seven from her regeneration cycle. Told her about the briefing, which received the usual eyebrow lift and tilted head that only Seven and Tuvok had perfected. Chakotay didn't have the energy to argue with her, just turned and left, ordering her to be there asap.
He made a quick detour to his quarters to get out of the dress uniform.
"Chakotay, where are you? What are you doing?"
"I'm changing my uniform, got to get this damned thing off."
"Not fair! I want to watch..."
"Captain! You continue to amaze me. Tomorrow night you can watch me take it off..." He rustled with hangers away from his comm badge on the dresser. He heard her voice but couldn't make out what she said. He walked back, tugging on his standard jacket.
"..... Cha-ko-tay.... Come in Chakotay..."
"Hm-m-m? I'm back, sorry about that. What did you say?"
"I said, was that a proposition I just heard? For tomorrow night?"
"Absolutely." He attached the comm badge and his insignia bar. No response was forthcoming. "Kathryn? Have I scared you off already?"
"Absolutely not. I just got a little distracted by my own imagination, that's all... So whose quarters? I want to be able to picture it tonight."
"Your pick. I don't care whose bed it is as long as you're in it." He felt a twitch between his legs. "Just pick quick because I have to get out of here and off this topic..."
"Are you getting bothered?"
"Kath-ryn, whose quarters?"
"Okay, okay. Mine. No, yours. Yes, yours, definitely yours."
"All right, mine it is. 1800 hours, dinner. And then we'll see..."
"We'll see!? Are you reneging?"
"No, I just suddenly didn't want to push you..."
"Well, you'd better push Chakotay, I fully expect to be pushed to the limits of my senses and yours, too...." She giggled.
He gave a small groan. His voice got husky. "Kathryn, fine. I promise I will do my best to push you past the limits of your senses and then push you some more. Now, I have to go before I'm forced to take a cold shower. I love you."
"I look forward to it, Chakotay, trust me. I love you, too. Now are we going to the briefing?"
"Yes, we are. Feel free to join in the discussion whenever you wish."
Swoosh.
In the corridor, he heard the door open to Kathryn's cell. He froze, straining to hear. He heard a woman's voice and Kathryn as she greeted her.
"Captain?"
"It's all right, Commander. The high praetor's wife has come to visit me."
"I will wait to commence the briefing in your ready room while you finish your visit, if that meets with approval." Kathryn was impressed with Chakotay's improvisation.
"Yes, I think that will be fine. You need about two or three minutes I believe until you are there?"
He was in the turbo lift, "Deck one. Yes, Captain that will be enough time."
"All right, we'll just wait until then. So Sidri, let me explain what is happening here..."
Kathryn was still explaining as Chakotay walked into the briefing room. He held up his finger to his mouth and motioned for everyone to surround him. He then put his hand carefully over his comm and talked very softly to the group.
"It's complicated and I can't take the time to explain, but I need to go into the ready room for awhile, while the Captain talks with the praetor's wife. So please wait for me here, or on the bridge if you'd prefer. The briefing will continue as soon as she's done." Then loudly he said "Captain, the crew will wait until you are finished."
"Thank you Commander."
He then strode out of the conference room to the other side of the bridge and got settled on Kathryn's couches, leaving the door open.
"So Sidri, let me explain what is happening here. I think our means of communication have surprised you. You see, there is about to be a meeting of my senior officers, to discuss my situation and I need to be involved in the discussion. So these badges allow us to open channels of communication. I can hear everything that's being said at the meeting and they can hear what I have to say as well. It gets fairly complicated technologically speaking but that's the end result."
"And Captain, the man you are speaking to is your Commander Cha... I'm sorry I cannot remember his name."
"Commander Chakotay. Yes, that is correct. He is in charge of Voyager while I'm not there."
"Captain, the crew will wait until you are finished."
"Thank you Commander." Kathryn was grateful the comm link would remain open. She pictured Chakotay in her ready room. He was probably lounging on the couches, feet stretched out on the table, head back. She hoped he stayed awake.
"And your Commander is the man you were speaking to earlier here in the house, isn't he?"
Damn. "What makes you say that?"
"I recognize his voice, it is very distinctive. The resonance of it, the cadence."
Kathryn didn't know what to do.
Chakotay was now sitting straight, feet planted on the floor. He was dying to jump in and say something, anything...
"And if the man I was speaking to earlier was my Commander, would that make any difference to my situation here? Why are you asking me this?"
Sidri got up from the chair she was sitting in and began to pace the tiny room. For her part, Kathryn was mystified. Why this woman was here and why she was asking these questions she couldn't fathom. She watched her pacing and twisting her hands together. She was not particularly the picture of spiritual peace.
"Captain Janeway, our two cultures are very different, I probably don't need to say that. Here, we are taught to abhor the weaknesses of the flesh. Once we marry..." Sidri took a deep breath, "we can participate in a physical union of the most intimate kind. However, we do not believe that touching need be done at other times."
Okay, I knew that. "I'm afraid I don't understand what you're trying to say to me, I'm sorry."
"Please excuse my confusing communication. Perhaps I can just ask you another question. What does it feel like to have your Commander's arms around you while you cry?"
Kathryn's mind went into overdrive. She could almost hear Chakotay's do the same. She looked carefully around the upper perimeter of the room and sure enough, there it was. A small black eye piece. She turned back to look at Sidri who sat expressionless.
"So you were watching us this evening? As was your husband?"
"Yes, I forced him to let me watch, too. I was curious about you. But can you answer my question?"
Now it was Kathryn's turn to pace. Prime Directive was screaming in her head. She could tell she wasn't being interrogated, this woman wanted personal information. Did the PD really apply here? Who knew. Kathryn didn't have the time to debate it.
"Well, Sidri, as I am understanding your question, you as a woman who has been taught that touching outside of the marriage bed is unnecessary wants to know what it is like to have someone comfort you while you are upset. I need to say this is strictly my own personal experience. Everyone's is different. For me, having Commander Chakotay's arms around me when I am crying is one of the most wonderful experiences I get to have. I feel safe and supported. I feel cared for. And loved."
"Does this help you feel less sad?"
"In a way it does. It makes the sadness go away sooner. It helps me remember that I am more than just a sad person. Does that make any sense?"
"I think so. Although I don't really know what the thing is that you call 'love', I believe I can imagine what that would be like. To have someone help you when you're sad."
"Why are you asking me these questions?"
Sidri had a small grin playing on the corners of her mouth. "I'm not really sure. I experienced a new emotion watching the two of you. I felt sad. I don't know why. My husband wants to make an example of you, you know. He is concerned that I was deeply offended by your talking earlier. It is one of the rare reasons he gets involved in my welfare. I'm not sure I feel as offended tonight as I did."
"Why is that?"
"We are also taught that speaking intimately with a man prior to marriage means that a woman is wicked. That the words spoken are lewd. I don't believe what I saw this evening was lewd or wicked. And yet you were sharing a very intimate moment and you are not married. So something is wrong somewhere, isn't it?"
"I don't think that is for me to say."
"Do you have deep feelings for your Commander?"
"Yes, I do. I am in love with him."
"And do you know if he returns those feelings of what you call 'love'?"
"I do. He is in love with me, too."
"I see. Thank you, Captain, for being honest with me."
"Sidri, I just want to say that I am truly sorry if I did offend you earlier. I thought I was being careful. I was simply missing the Commander and needed to hear his voice. I was homesick for my ship and for him. I had no intention of showing disrespect for your customs."
"I can see that now. I will try and talk to my husband. He is stubborn, however."
"Thank you."
Sidri nodded and knocked on the door to be let out. Kathryn sat back down heavily on the bed.
"Chakotay, you still there?"
"Uh huh. What can I say. This day just gets weirder and weirder."
"What I wouldn't give right now for a cup of coffee. I'm going to have to cover up that camera eye..." She dug around in her bag for something to use. "Do you think lipstick would work?" She dragged the chair to the corner and stepped up. She could just reach it, and smeared the lens as well as she could.
"Yes, and I know you've already tried it. Creepy to think they were spying on us. I know I said I'd support you in staying down there, but that place is starting to bother me. Too many contradictions. I'm heading for the transporter room..."
"Chakotay! Don't you dare. You're kidding me, aren't you?"
"Yes. How could you tell?"
"Your voice wasn't quite serious enough. And besides, I think we need to head to the briefing room."
Chakotay sighed. "Is this day ever going to end? Goodness, it is almost 2200. Can't I just beam you up so we can sleep together - just sleep! - and then I'd send you back in the morning? Please?"
"Too tempting, sir. Though I highly doubt we would end up getting any sleep."
"You're probably right. Okay, I'm dragging my body upright and heading out to the bridge. By the way, thank you for saying those sweet things about me."
"Showering you with praise is the easy part of my job, Commander. Personally and professionally."
"Thank you. I'm almost at the ready room door. I'll talk to you in awhile. You ready?"
"I'm ready if you are."
"Let's do it."
Chapter Five
Gathering up the troops this time was much easier. They were all still in the briefing room, beta shift having taken over the bridge. Somewhere they had gotten some cards and they were engaged in a serious game of gin. Four handed gin. Neelix was still absent.
"So who's winning, as though I need to ask. How far ahead are you, Seven?"
"Chakotay! Why do you think she's winning?" B'Elanna glared at him.
"Because she can count the cards better than anyone on the ship."
"Commander, I believe I am owed many talaxian peanuts, whatever they are."
"Got that right, Seven. I for one, owe you 900. Harry owes you 827 and B'El owes you 788."
"Well, at least I owe the smallest amount! That should count for something..." B'Elanna muttered under her breath.
"When that hand is over, I'm calling the meeting to order." Chakotay sank gratefully in the chair at the head of the table. He put his head in his hands and felt himself drifting off.
"Hey, big guy... We're done." He opened his eyes unwillingly.
"Well then. The first topic to discuss is the Captain. She has been detained on the planet and will stand trial, for lack of a better word, in the morning..."
The room exploded in sound as everyone spoke at once. Chakotay allowed it to peter out, given the late hour he understood their lack of control. As the noise quieted he continued.
"Though the Captain is going to stand trial in the morning, Mr. Tuvok and I have absolutely no intention of letting her submit to any type of punishment. In the worst case scenario we will beam her out of there. In the best case scenario the trial will not even occur. She is willing to keep herself in custody in the hopes that the trade agreement will not collapse and that we can still obtain the minerals we need."
"But Commander, what is she supposed to have done?" Harry, as usual, cutting to the chase.
Even though Chakotay was obviously expecting the question, he still wasn't sure how to answer.
"Captain, what do you think?"
"Go ahead and tell them, Chakotay. It's too late for propriety, so to speak..." She chuckled and Chakotay joined her. Their crewmembers looked confused, unsure of what was so funny given the situation.
"The Captain supposedly offended the wife of the high praetor by speaking to a man, namely me, in her room. Over the comm."
Tom looked suspicious. "Just talking to you? How is that offensive?"
"Well, it was the content of the conversation that the woman overheard that was potentially offensive. Given their strict moral code and all."
Kathryn spoke up, "Chakotay, you don't need to keep protecting me.."
"Maybe I'm protecting myself too."
"I know, but just go ahead and tell them, what the hell."
By now everyone was beyond curious.
Chakotay took a deep breath. "The Captain and I were speaking intimately with each other, saying that we loved each other ... among other things."
Tom, Harry and B'Elanna merely grinned at him. Seven had apparently no reaction.
"So you have no response to this? What am I to make of your grins?"
Tom spoke up. "Well, Chakotay, Captain, I guess we're just relieved you finally admitted it, to each other most of all. And to us. I think I can safely say that we are just happy."
The Captain answered him. "Thank you, Tom and everyone. I think I can safely say that we are happy, too, and would be moreso if the situation tonight were different than it is..."
"So by speaking to Chakotay, Captain, you get arrested? That is pretty harsh..." Tom was trying to understand. "I know the Kadi are strict, but isn't this a bit over the top?"
Kathryn tried to explain the intricacies of her situation, which provoked more discussion of the strange society the crew of Voyager was now involved with.
Chakotay tried to regain control of the meeting as he dearly wanted some sleep.
"Which brings up the second topic of this briefing. The so-called 'scuttlebutt' that has been travelling around this crew today, also regarding myself and the Captain. Obviously, you were right, the rumour is indeed true. However, I do not want any gossip about this situation to go beyond the senior staff. Do I make myself clear on this? Do any of you know if other crewmembers have been told the rumour?"
B'Elanna shook her head. "I don't know about Neelix, but I haven't told anyone. In fact, after you stormed out of my quarters earlier today we all talked and made the same decision. I'm sorry I gave you such a hard time."
"I forgive you, B'El, thanks for making the decision. I'll talk to Neelix sometime tomorrow, if tomorrow ever gets here... Captain, do you have anything you'd like to add?"
"No, I don't think so. I just want you all to know that I'm grateful for your support and I look forward to coming home."
Everyone called out "good luck" and "good night".
Chakotay finally could say "Dismissed." But of course then had Tom, Harry and B'Elanna wanting to personally say something to him before they would go to their quarters. Seven merely nodded and left. Eventually the briefing room was empty.
"Kathryn, I'm done in and heading to my quarters. How are you?"
"I'm doing okay. Surprising calm, all things considered. Regretting my decision to stay here a bit, missing you alot."
"Well, one last chance before I go to bed..."
"No-o, I couldn't take it. I'll content myself with listening to you sleep instead..."
"Okay, let's go..."
Twenty minutes later Chakotay was under the covers with his comm badge on the pillow next to his head. Kathryn was doing the same.
"Chakotay? You asleep?"
"Uh uh, almost..."
"Thank you."
"For what?"
"For kissing me this morning."
"Was that just this morning?"
"I think so."
"Well, you're welcome. I didn't really have much choice, though..."
"What do you mean?"
"You were just looking so beautiful, and then your hair smelled so good and then those eyes of yours just did me in. I had no choice."
"I'd like to think you had some free will involved there..."
"Oh, complete free will. Just powers beyond my control, that's all."
"Hm-m-m."
"Thank you."
"For what?"
"For burning a hole through my tunic with your hands this morning."
She giggled. "I didn't realize I had."
"Oh, definitely, didn't you see the fire?"
"No, but I felt it..."
"M-m-m, yeah, I did, too... It was very very nice..."
"Yes, it was nice..."
"More than nice actually."
"How much more?"
"Teraquads."
"Wow, I'm flattered."
"You should be."
"Well, Chakotay, it was way more than nice for me too. I believe I remember that my knees were giving out just about the time that damned comm shouted..."
"Knees giving out? That sounds good."
"It's very good. Although since that's never happened to me before, maybe I'm misinterpreting it."
"Never?"
"Never. You're the first and hopefully the last."
"Well, like I always tell you, trust your instincts, Kathryn...." He rolled over onto his stomach.
"You going to sleep?"
"Hopefully soon. I just moved that's all."
"Back, sides or stomach?"
"Stomach. Now. You?"
"Back at the moment. This bed is horrible, you have no idea..."
"This one is nice, but a little cold."
"Doesn't your regulation sleepwear keep you warm?"
"Only if I wear it, which isn't often."
"Chakotay, how am I supposed to sleep now?"
"What, you starting to feel a little bothered?"
"Well... Yes."
"Okay, then, what do you have on, if anything?"
"God, I wouldn't be naked here in this cell. They left me a gown of the most uncomfortable material. Maybe they're trying to get me into the local convent..."
"Ha - you? Over my dead body. I'm sorry about the conditions there. If you were in your quarters, what would you be wearing?"
"Alone? My favorite gown, it's sort of a silky fabric and feels wonderful on my skin."
"I don't remember you having a silky gown..."
"Well, I never wore it. I think I was saving it... Never mind, I don't want to bring that up again. Here and now. If I weren't alone, then I would be wearing nothing."
"Side, back or stomach? Not alone, I mean."
"Depends. Side is nice, with a strong, warm, tatoo'd man curled up behind me, holding me close..."
"You trying to torture me? Or just keep me awake all night..."
"You asked, big guy. Feeling a little bothered?"
He groaned. "I'll be right back."
A few long minutes later he got back under the covers.
"Chakotay, what did you do? If you don't mind saying."
"Short version of a cold shower and herbal tea. Next best thing to you beaming up here and us getting Voyager the hell away from that planet..."
"Soon, I promise. Although the beaming up plan is sounding pretty good right now... I just need sleep and there's no way I'd get it in bed with you."
"I would do my best to leave you alone."
"I'm not worried about you, I wouldn't be able to leave you alone ... You are so beautiful..."
Silence.
"Chakotay? You still awake?"
"Yes, I'm here. Why do you think I am beautiful? No one's ever called me that before."
"To me you are. I mean along with incredibly handsome, sexy, gorgeous. I just think of you as beautiful, inside and outside. The whole package..."
"Thank you, Kathryn. That's one of the nicest things anyone's ever said about me."
"I love you, Chakotay."
"I love you. So ready to go to sleep now?"
"I guess so. Sweet dreams my love."
"Sleep well, Kathryn. I love you with all my heart and soul. Good night."
"Good night, Chakotay."
She lay there for awhile, listening to him fall deeply asleep. Then
rolled over to her side and hugged the extra pillow tightly to her chest,
comm badge next to her ear. She let the sounds of his breathing lull her
to sleep.
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