Out of the Blue Part 01- 03

 

Janeway's face turned an odd shade of pale and her eyes widened.

 

"You can't be serious."

 

"I'm very serious," Chakotay said evenly.  He stood motionless in front of her, his hands clasped behind his back.

 

A couple of boxes sat open on the captain's ready room desk.  She had been in the middle of packing when he had requested a meeting with her.  His expression was stone serious.

 

"This was the best plan you could come up with?"

 

"I wouldn't have suggested it to you if I hadn't considered all other options.  This would be most effective."

 

Voyager had arrived in the Alpha quadrant a week ago and as first officer he had been running himself ragged keeping an eye on Star Fleet and how they intended to handle the non Star Fleet members of the crew. Most the issues concerning former Maquis members were written off, they were seen as members of an extinct group, little trouble seemed to be coming from that area. He began to relax until he found intelligence officers poking around Cargo Bay 2.  He also discovered all of Seven's medical records had been downloaded by persons unknown.

 

He had been working with a Starfleet liaison to help the crew make a smooth transition back into their old lives, but this same liaison had been remarkably tight lipped over Seven's future.  It was obvious plans were being made, none of which they were willing to discuss with him or Seven. A sense of foreboding tickled down his spine and had turned into throbbing in the back of his skull.  Seven had no status with Starfleet, she was just a piece of equipment.  That was when he realized he needed to find her some status.  The Federation was heaping praise upon their hero of the hour, Captain Janeway, their new shining example of a good captain.  There was nothing they wouldn't do for her. And that's when he discovered his solution.

 

"You want me to enter into a fake marriage with     Seven?"

 

"If she’s your wife it'll keep Starfleet at bay.  They're up to something Kathryn, believe me.  Have I ever taken a stance on something I wasn't absolutely sure of?"

 

"What if..."  She paused and looked out the window. "You're sure?"

 

"There are Starfleet intel officers on this ship right now collecting information without your knowledge or permission.  They've already downloaded her medical files."

 

"Have you mentioned any of this to Seven?"

 

"No.  But I have discussed it with Tuvok; he thinks it a logical plan."

 

"Well, who can argue that?"

 

"Starfleet Intelligence is a powerful entity to go up against, but if she's your spouse they might back off a little to save face.  It could be just a one year license that ends in a no fault dissolvement of the marriage.  By then arrangements could be made to keep them away from her.  I know this is a hard decision, especially coming from a Traditionalist background, I know you take marriage seriously, but this is Seven's life we're talking about here."

 

She pulled herself up and took a breath.  "You're right, if it's a serious as you say it is."

 

"I know I'm asking for big leap of faith."

 

"But I'd be remiss if I didn't heed your advice.  It's a god plan." Her commbadge chirped.

 

"Seven of Nine to Janeway."

 

"Go ahead Seven."

 

"Please report to the shuttle bay."

 

"On my way.  Come on, it will give us a chance to talk to her about your plan."

 

When they got there they found Seven facing down a Starfleet officer with his hand resting suspiciously on his phaser.  She seemed slightly flustered, which was unnoticeable to the trained eye. There was a shuttle standing by and as Janeway walked past it she got a glimpse of heavily armed guards waiting inside, one was sitting down with his rifle propped against his seat.

 

"What seems to be the problem?

 

The officer looked up to watch her approach. "Starfleet wants her relocated immediately."

 

"I wasn't informed of this.  Relocated where?"

 

"It's confidential.  It's for her own safety.  As you know Borg aren't real popular in this quadrant."

 

"I see.  Does Seven have any say in this?"

 

"I have my orders."

 

"First of all, I never gave you permission to step foot on my ship and I suggest you friends in the shuttle stay where they are.  Second, my fiancé' and I have some things to discuss."  She took Seven's hand, whom had suddenly been struck dumb, and gave it a little squeeze.

 

"Come on, darling.  Let's go."  She gave Seven a message loaded glance and hoped she would go along with the ploy. Seven nodded and allowed her to lead her to the turbo lift.

 

"So, you're ready to go ahead with it?" Chakotay asked after the door closed behind them.

 

Janeway was still holding Seven's hand protectively,

 

"We'll see.  Seven, we need to talk to you."

 

"Will the conversation explain why you're holding my hand and calling me 'darling'?"

 

"Yes."

 

"Then I look forward to it."

 

They went into the ready room and explained the situation the young Borg, whom Janeway could see was becoming visibly nervous.  It was Seven's worst fear realized that she might be in danger on earth.  They were sitting on the couch and Janeway squeezed her shoulder comfortingly.

 

"There's more.  I've discovered listening and visual devices installed in Cargo Bay 2."

 

"Why didn't you report this?"

 

"I assumed it was acceptable."

 

"Being spied on is not acceptable. This charade isn't necessary, this is flagrant-"

 

"Kathryn, these people don't care, they'll do anything in the name of necessity.  We need the leverage of the marriage."

 

"I want to speak with Admiral Necheyev first, see if we can get this straightened out first, then we'll decide from there.  Seven, are you willing to go along with this if we feel the situation requires it?"

 

She paused and took a deep breath. "If you feel it is the best solution...I have no plans anyway."

 

"Okay then.  Chakotay, could I have a word with Seven in private please?"

 

"Of course."  He quietly ducked out of the room.  Janeway scooted closer to Seven.

 

"You don't have to do this if you don't want to, it was just an idea to get them to avert their attention from you."

 

She folded her hands on her lap. "What will your mother think?"

 

"I think she'll survive."  Janeway's workstation beeped and she moved across the room to answer it. A stern Admiral Necheyev appeared on her desk monitor.  She sat down in her chair and tried to compose herself.

 

"Admiral," she said icily.

 

"Captain, where do you get off tossing intelligence officers off Voyager?"

 

"When they try to abduct a member of my crew.  Seven of Nine-"

 

"Is a former Borg-"

 

"Is my crew member, a citizen of the Federation-"

 

"That was forfeited when she was assimilated."

 

"She was a child."  Forfeited?  Had everyone just lost their minds while she had been away?  What kind of fascist mentality was Starfleet running on these days? "She is also my fiancé. Now if you want this plastered on every press outlet in the Federation I suggest you rethink your plans for Seven.  I could suddenly become very camera shy and do further damage to Starfleet's sagging recruitment statistics."

 

"Well then," the Admiral leaned back in her chair.  "When's the big day?"

 

"Soon."

 

"I'd love to attend."

 

"It will be a private ceremony."

 

"Will your family be there?"

 

"It hasn't been decided. I have to run, good day Admiral."  She shut the screen off.  "She's going to call my mother, tell her god knows what, probably that I'm nuts."

 

Seven rose from the couch and clasped her hands behind her back. Janeway took a moment to appreciate her profile. Well, not that nuts, a little voice said.  Where did that come from?

 

"We should begin making plans immediately." Seven stated.  "Will I be residing with you as well?"

 

Janeway thought she almost detected a bit of eagerness in her voice.

 

"It wouldn't look good if you didn't"

 

"I prefer the right side of the bed."

 

Instead of going ashen like Seven expected Kathryn's face flushed a furious red. Seven found it very curious.

 

"I was teasing you, Captain."

 

"Oh," she laughed.  "You should call me Kathryn."

 

Seven nodded.  She was a little relieved to be staying with Janeway since her own future on Earth seemed too uncertain and she had feared Starfleet would take possession of her like some war trophy.

 

"We need to get a contract written up.  Chakotay suggested a one year contract."

 

"Logical choice."

 

Kathryn was overwhelmed by a protective surge that made her catch her breath.

 

"Please don't feel you have to do this."

 

"I trust you, Kathryn."

 

Several hours later they beamed down to a house just outside of London.  It belonged to a minister friend Chakotay had known several years ago.  t was a typical rainy day, practically soaking them before they could get to the cover of the tiny front porch. Chakotay knocked on the flimsy screen door, which rattled noisily.

 

"Hold on!" a man yelled, "I didn't know you'd be here so soon. I'm getting the paperwork together right now."

 

The screen banged open and a black cat darted out, mischief in his eyes.

 

"Mister Lawrence! Dammit!"  A long haired man came barreling out the door but the cat was long gone.

 

"Chuckles, go get my cat," he ordered Chakotay.

 

"He'll come back."

 

"Only with some sweet talking, I'm not easy to live with you know." He hastily put his graying blonde hair into a pony tail, shoving the book in his hands to Janeway to hold.  The marriage contact was sitting on top.

 

"Okay, let's get the show on the road." He took back the book and handed the contract to Chakotay.

 

"Hold that, witness. You two ready to go?"

 

Seven looked a little bewildered but nodded.

 

He opened the book and cleared his throat.  "Do you Kathryn Janeway take...Seven of Nine to be your legal spouse for a period no less than a year?"

 

"I do."

 

"Do you Seven, can I call you Seven? Good.  Do you Seven take Kathryn Janeway to be your legal spouse for a period no less than a year?"

 

"I do."

 

"This contract begins today and will expire in exactly one year unless renewed at that time." He lowered the book. "You may kiss the bride."

 

He was met with blank stares.

 

"Humor me, you got me out of bed for this."

 

Janeway swallowed nervously and looked over at Seven.  She leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.

 

"You call that a kiss?"  Something caught his eye and he glanced to his right.  He spotted a familiar black cat sitting high in the cover of a nearby tree staring down at him.

 

"Oh you just think you're real cute, don't ya.  Chuckles, crawl up that tree and get my cat."

 

"I'm not climbing a wet tree for your cat. He must want to get away if he goes out in this weather."

 

"Fine, provide me with a counselor later then.  I need you two to sign this.  Witness, sign here, and we're all set." He turned to Seven. "You are now married to Starfleet captain, I hear the benefits are good. Janeway, you are now married to a Borg, holidays will be awkward and the in-laws atrociously pushy.  Enjoy."

 

He shuffled back inside the house and the door banged shut behind him.

 

"What kind of minister is he?" Janeway asked.

 

"A legal one." Chakotay answered.

 

As they turned to leave the door cracked open.

 

"If you see that cat on your way out tell him to get his little butt in here."

 

And by this unspectacular ceremony began the unexpected marriage of Kathryn Janeway and Seven of Nine.

 

No pictures were taken.

 

***

A resounding gasp filled the corridors of Voyager, resulting in several spanners, cups, and padds crashing onto the decking (Neelix also received a minor burn from the cooking unit).  This phenomenon was immediately followed by several shocked utterances along the line of

 

"You're kidding aren't you? Are you serious? When?" And of course, "Have you recently experienced blunt force trauma to your head?" which was directed from B'Elanna Torres to Tom Paris as she helped him pack his things.

 

"My head is fine, I heard this from Chakotay, and he was there, B'Elanna, he was the witness."

 

"How....when?" Tom watched in amazement as B'Elanna was literally struck speechless, not even a string of Klingon profanities could work its way out.  Her eyes became saucer shape and she managed a blink, but that was all.

 

"They got married a couple of days ago, very private ceremony I guess."

 

"I wonder if...Do you think they've been involved this whole time?"

 

"I'd guess."

 

"When do you think that happened?"

 

He shrugged.

 

"I'll bet it was when Seven left with the Borg Queen, Janeway was really steamed over that deal."

 

"You're probably right, in the shuttle on the way back there we were in the middle of this fire fight, I look behind me and they're just staring at each other.  There was a moment there when I was certain they were gonna kiss.  I just forgot about it later, chalked it up to an over active imagination."  He thought about the mission and remembered Janeway holding the phaser rifle.  "The Captain's always liked big guns and Seven's certainly packin'." he said, making a rather crude cupping gesture in front of chest.

 

B'Elanna threw a pillow at him. "You're a pig, Tom.  I'm going to go ask Janeway about this myself, I'll bet you Chakotay was just pulling your leg."

 

On her way in the turbo lift Ensign Wildman asked her if she'd heard the news.  She rolled her eyes and exited onto the floor where the Captain resided. Kahless this crew was gullible.  She pressed the door chime to the Captain's quarters and was immediately granted access.

 

"B'Elanna!  I was planning to come see everyone before I left, I'm glad you stopped by," Janeway said jovially as she packed some things into a box.

 

"I just wanted to clear up a rumor I heard.  Tom said you and Seven got married a couple days ago."

 

The Captain glanced up at her, her expression unreadable. "That's true."

 

B'Elanna almost fell over for the second time that day. "Why didn't you tell anyone?"

 

Janeway stepped around her packing and put her hands on her engineer’s shoulders.  "B'Elanna, it was just totally unplanned, came right out of the blue."  That was putting it mildly. She looked back disapprovingly at her packing.  "Do you have a beach towel?"

 

"Beach towel?"

 

"We're going to the Caribbean for our honeymoon.  Never mind, they'll probably have towels at the hotel."  She could see B'Elanna was visibly shocked and some part of her found it deliciously entertaining. Maybe this wouldn't be so bad after all.

 

"You're taking that Borg to the beach?  she'll sink."

 

"She'll be fine.  I'm sorry to leave everyone in the dark on this, you know I value your friendship, it's just..." She sighed and sat down on the couch.  "Starfleet was really breathing down our necks, they wanted to take her like some piece of property, so we had to move fast. With us getting married it forced them to back off."

 

"Was it that bad?"

 

"Yes, it was."

 

So was this to get Starfleet off Seven's back?  She didn't have the courage to ask. Instead, she chose to just watch her captain, who seemed filled with good cheer. Maybe it was for real. The door chimed and Seven entered.  She glanced at Torres then back at Janeway, her lips pursed.

 

"What is it, Seven?" Kathryn asked

 

"It's regarding the ring issue we discussed earlier. I believe you said we should purchase wedding bands-"

 

"Captain! You didn't get her a ring!"

 

"Well I-"

 

"What kind of wife are you?"

 

"I feel it is not necessary," Seven stated.

 

"Why?"  Janeway asked.

 

"I...I," She stammered a little and looked at B'Elanna.

 

"What is it?"

 

Seven seemed a little distressed and looked over at Kathryn, who moved closer to her.

 

"I do not wish to draw attention to..." she trailed off.

 

Janeway searched her eyes, then gently took Seven's mesh covered left hand in her own and lifted it between them.

 

"To this?" she whispered, noticing how incredibly blue Seven's eyes had become.

 

"Yes, I don't-"

 

"I know. You could wear the ring on the other hand."

 

"But that would not be in accordance with tradition."

 

"Who cares?" A lump formed in her throat and it was making it difficult for her to talk.  She moved closer to her and the universe suddenly shrank to only the woman in front of her.  "I want you to have a ring, any ring you want." She took Seven's other hand and absently rubbed her thumb down the delicate bone of her ring finger. "Wear it here if it makes you more comfortable," she said as her thumb continued to caress the soft flesh beneath it.

 

"Will you put it on for me?" Seven asked quietly.  They were a breath away from each other and the effect was so great B'Elanna could feel HER heart racing.

 

"Yes." Janeway drawled.  "If you do the same for me."

 

Was there a fire extinguisher around here? The engineer fretted.

 

"Absolutely.  Will you come with me to choose the ring?"

 

Janeway took a step back and almost seemed to shake her head a little.  "I've got some things to finish up here.  B'Elanna, could you take Seven shopping? Help her spend some of my money?"

 

"Sure, come one Seven, let's go somewhere expensive."

 

As they left Janeway could've swore B'Elanna threw a glare in her direction.

 

"I just don't get it,” B'Elanna said as she and Tom sat down for dinner at a small Italian restaurant planet side. "I mean, you should've seen it.  I'm waiting for the two of them to start a mating ritual right in front of me, Janeway's practically in tears because Seven's feeling insecure about her implants, then she just sends her off to get her wedding ring by herself!   What the hell's wrong with that woman?"

 

"I thought you said you went with Seven," he pointed out.

 

"That's not the same.  And Seven was just fine with it. 'She's the Captain and has duties to attend to.' she said.  Well, I'll tell you what, Seven better nip that shit in the bud quick.  I wouldn't put up with that I'll tell you what."

 

He nodded.  He didn't need to be told.

 

"I think I better start spending some time with Seven, I think she's going to need some help handling Janeway."

 

"B'Elanna, I'm sure they'll be fine. The only person who thinks this is a big deal is you."

 

"It'll be a big deal to them eventually too, just watch."

 

At that same moment Janeway tossed in her bed, wondering how she could've shoved Seven off on B'Elanna like she had, and why the woman hadn't bothered to contact her upon returning from her shopping trip. A strange ache filled her stomach when she thought of their encounter earlier that afternoon and she felt her face flush. You made a point of making sure she was tagged as yours, didn't you? A little voice chided her. She rolled over again.  It was going to be a long night.  She punched her pillow and looked up at the ceiling.  On the bright side Seven would have to see her tomorrow, because that was the first day of their "honeymoon." And she still hadn't told her mother.

Ugh.

 

***

 

I'm going on vacation for a little while," Janeway told her mother as they sat on the porch of her family's Indiana home.  "Just to the Caribbean for a few days."

 

"That will be good for you, they should give you more time than that though."

 

"Probably later. Did an Admiral call you by any chance?"

 

"Actually, yes, she said you would have some news for me."

 

 You can say that again. "Do you remember Seven of Nine?  You met her at the homecoming party?"

 

"She's not easy to forget."

 

"Well, I'm not going on a vacation, I'm going on a honeymoon with Seven.  We got married. What I tell you has to stay between us.  This is just to keep Starfleet away from her and that's all.  We have to keep up the appearance that it's for real."

 

"So you don't love her?" she asked incredulously.  She remembered they way her daughter and Seven had hovered around each other the whole night, she could've sworn there was something between them. Kathryn still hadn't answered the question.

 

"Why are you hesitating?

 

"Well, I love her of course, just not in that way.  The marriage will terminate in a year."

 

"There was no other way to handle this Starfleet business?"

 

"Not that we could find."

 

"It will be difficult."

 

"I don't know. I enjoy Seven's company and I'm glad to have her staying with me.  She balances me when I need it, and in the weeks ahead I'll definitely be needing it." She turned to look at her mother and her face suddenly became more animated.  "I'm meeting her at the hotel later today.  I think we're going to have a great time.  It will be nice to be with her away from Voyager.  Seven isn't the leisure type so it should be entertaining at least.  And it will give us a chance to sort out things as far as how we'll handle ourselves in public and everything."

 

"Are you going to bring her by so I can get to know her?  She'll be a big part of your life for the next year."

 

"Sure, I'll bring her by."  She stood up and stretched.  "I need to get going.  I need to pick up my things on Voyager and meet Seven."

 

"Have fun."

 

"I will."

 

Janeway expected Seven to be on Voyager so they could beam down together to the resort they were staying at but was dismayed to find her absent. The honeymoon had been Tuvok's idea, it would look good and would give them a chance to get comfortable in the situation. She was looking forward to the vacation but now was experiencing a sinking feeling.  That ring situation must have upset her.

 

"Captain!"

 

She stopped and turned around to see Naomi Wildman rushing towards her.

 

"Mom said you and Seven got married," she held out her hand formally.

 

"Congratulations."

 

"Thank you Bridge Assistant Wildman," she said shaking her hand.

 

"Seven said you'd be living together in San Francisco and I could come and visit."

 

"Sure you can come visit.  I just might be getting a dog you can come play with too.  Did you see Seven today, Naomi?"

 

"She was on board earlier."

 

"I must've missed her.  I'll see you later."

 

As she gathered her things she found herself growing more nervous, her heart rate was through the roof and her palms were sweaty.  She changed into a white shirt and jeans, grabbed her suitcase and headed to the transporter room. By the time she had beamed down the sun had set.  She was late.  Her heart was pounding and her mouth had gone dry. The night air smelled fragrant and she could hear the ocean waves gently rolling in. The resort was a small one, usually not too crowded since most people preferred to go to places like Risa rather than the beaches in their own backyard.  There was virtually no one in the lobby when she checked in.

 

Their room was several floors up and was supposed to have an ocean view. When she stood before the door she waited a minute to let her racing heart calm itself. What was she so nervous about?  She was acting like a teenager on her first date. Should she knock? She wiped her hand nervously on her pant leg and knocked gently. No answer.  Now she was near panic.  What if Seven didn't show? She sighed and opened the door. The lighting in the suite was dim.  She put her bag on the cream colored sofa and looked around. The door to the balcony was open and a breeze was blowing in.

 

"Kathryn."

 

She jumped a little at the voice and looked towards the balcony. Seven stepped out, her hair down and she was wearing a midnight blue silky night gown with a matching robe.  She was holding a champagne glass.

 

"I'm sorry I'm late," she stammered as a tingling sensation swept through her body.  "That looks very nice on you," she said.

 

"B'Elanna bought it for me yesterday as a wedding gift."

 

Thank God for that engineer. Her brain froze as her eyes roamed the silk that lovingly embraced Seven's voluptuous form.

           

"Would you like a drink?"

 

Speech returned. "Yes, thank you."

 

"Then report to the balcony, Captain."

 

Kathryn's expression was reminiscent of a leer as she followed the shapely blonde outside and Seven handed her a glass of champagne and sat down in a chair.

 

"I was worried you were upset with me because I didn't go with you to get the ring."

 

"B'Elanna was an acceptable companion."

 

"And it looks like you got a gift out of it too."

 

"A productive day."

 

She didn't see the ring on Seven's hand but decided not to ask about it.  She took a long swallow of champagne, emptying the glass, then after pouring herself another one walked over to watch the ocean below.

 

"It's a nice view."

 

"Yes, it is."

 

"I talked with my mother today.  She wants to meet you."  She could see her shift a little out of the corner of her eyes and smiled.

 

"But she has met me already."

 

"But now you're her daughter in law."

 

She turned and looked at the full moon above them, noticing the dark patches of maria on the surface, reveling in the familiarity.  She took another long drink.

 

"I thought alcohol negatively affected you."

 

"Ensign Paris said that was point."

 

"Very true.  I got an apartment in the area I told you about. Most of my things are already moved in.  When we get back we can start getting your things moved and get settled." Her glass was getting dangerously empty again and she picked the bottle to find it empty.

 

"Don't tell me we downed the whole bottle."

 

"I won't." Seven stood up.  "I'll get another."  She sauntered back into the suite, leaving Janeway on the balcony.

 

Kathryn looked over at the cart on which sat the now empty bottle in an ice bucket.  Next to it was a covered silver platter she hadn't noticed before.  She lifted the cover and saw two velvet boxes. Seven came back with another bottle and Janeway felt like she had just been caught with her hand in the cookie jar.  Her expression must've been interesting because a small smile curved Seven's lips.

 

"I was saving them for later."

 

"Oh." She put the lid back on.

 

Seven opened the bottle and a good stream of bubbles shot out.

 

"This bottle is defective."

 

Kathryn took it from her.  "That's normal.  How'd you get the first bottle open?"

 

"Someone from the hotel staff assisted me."

 

"If you were wearing that I would've twisted off Voyager's hull for you," she smiled, then mentally slapped herself for the comment. What was wrong with her tonight?

 

"We better go easy on this."

 

"We're celebrating, Kathryn, excess is allowed."  She walked past her and retrieved one of the boxes.  "This one is for you," she said, handing her the box.

 

Kathryn put aside her glass and opened it. It was a white gold band with an intricate carving around the band that appeared to be oak leaves.

 

"It's gorgeous."

 

 Seven took the ring out of the box and slipped it on Kathryn's finger. She held it up to admire in the moonlight. Seven sat back down in her chair and watched her.

 

"It's handmade," Seven added.

 

Kathryn picked up the other box and took out the ring's companion.  She approached Seven and knelt in front of her.

 

"I'm sorry I didn't go with you to get the rings."  She took Seven's right hand and gently slipped the ring on.

 

"You can make it up to me.  I believe the minister felt your kiss was lacking.  You owe me another."

 

She wasn't sure if it was the alcohol or the dizzying effect of Seven's perfume but she was very receptive to the idea.

 

"Well, it's the least I can do," she smiled. She looked deep into the blue of Seven's eyes and found herself moving forward. The kiss lasted longer than she planned.  She intended it to be a peck on the lips but Seven's mouth tasted so wonderful she had to reach in and ring a deep kiss from her that left her gasping. She had to get away.  She got up and hurried into the suite, turning up the lighting. Seven was right on her heels, standing in the doorway.

 

"Kathryn."

 

 Janeway was leaning against the four poster bed, feeling the electric shock dig into her as she looked at Seven in the moonlight, smelling of the sea and champagne. She was strong but not that strong.  Her steel melted away in seconds.

 

"Lights out." she barked, then marched over to Seven, wrapping her arms around her waist and burying her head in the tall woman's shoulder.

 

"Just hold me." She inhaled her scent deeply and closed her eyes. They moved to the bed and lied down, Janeway never sacrificing her hold on Seven's waist. No words passed between them and they both drifted off to sleep.

 

When Janeway woke she realized this was going to be a lot harder than she thought it was going to be.  She got up and crawled into the shower.  She stood under the water and as it raged around her she let her mind race. What happened last night?  It all seemed like some dream. She had never considered any having any romantic inclinations towards Seven, of course being the captain of a lost ship consumed everything.  Now that distraction was gone and the veil was lifted and it was glaring down on her like a sun. The question was did Seven love her?  Her heart told her she did, the way her eyes became incredibly blue when she looked at her and how her voice lowered a couple of octaves when she said her name. And if she didn't know better she had stumbled into a carefully planned seduction last night. But then again Seven knew little of seduction; she was probably doing what came naturally.

 

So what should she do now?  She didn't need something like love complicating this marriage.  She laughed a little at the idea and leaned her forehead against the cool shower wall. She needed time.  What of Seven?   What expectations did she have of her now?  She ran her fingers through her hair to help rinse out some of the shampoo when she noticed an unfamiliar weight. The ring. She looked at it and noted the extra weight, how it felt on her finger. How did she get in this mess? She turned off the shower, dried herself off, and wrapped herself in a white terry cloth robe. Upon returning to the bedroom she found Seven fast asleep, her arm draped over the spot where Janeway had been lying.

 

"I thought you were up," Janeway said quietly, brushing Seven's hair away from her face.

 

"I was but it was very unpleasant."

 

Kathryn jumped.  She had been certain Seven was asleep, she felt caught again. "What's wrong?"
 

"There is an aching pain in my head.  Why are you speaking so loud?"

 

"I think you have a hangover." "Hangover?"

 

"You drank too much.  Don't worry, we'll get you fixed up.  I have a cure that's fool proof."  She went to the replicator and starting punching in instructions.  Seven just groaned and pulled the covers over her head.

She returned with a glass of greenish liquid and a hypospray,

 

"Come out of there.  I need you to drink this."

 

Seven poked her head out wearily and took the glass.  She took a sip and an odd look crossed her face.

 

"Taste is irrelevant, remember?"

 

Seven downed the contents of the glass and handed it back to her.  She then obediently turned her head and allowed Kathryn to administer the hypo. Her eyes roamed the elegant curve of Seven's neck and her heart started pounding.  This was unbearable.

 

"There's just one more thing." She handed her a half full glass of champagne.  "Hair of the alien that bit you."

 

Seven looked at her incredously.

 

"Trust me."

 

She took the glass and sipped from it gently until it was gone.

 

"Now go take a shower, you'll be feeling better in no time.  What do you want to do today?"

 

"I'm uncertain.  This situation is unfamiliar to me."

 

"Why don't we try the beach?"

 

Seven nodded as she went into the bathroom.  As she stood in the shower she fretted as to whether she should bring up last night events.  Normally, she was not one to shy away from any subject but Kathryn seemed so skittish about the previous night's events, she felt as if she took one wrong step she would send her running away. She remembered something the Doctor had said to her once, a conversational tool.  Sometimes it was easier to approach a subject from an indirect angle. She emerged from the shower and dressed in a matching robe. When she entered the room Kathryn was busy making the bed.

 

"That was the first time I've slept in a bed," Seven commented.

 

Kathryn paused for a moment.  "How'd you like it?"

 

"It is inefficient, but the company was desirable."  That probably came out wrong, a voice chided.

 

Janeway smiled and went about her task.

 

***

B'Elanna nearly growled when she received the communiqué from the Academy. She had put in for an internship in the engineering department and had been given two days to give them a request letter from Janeway or they wouldn't consider the application. She knew they were pulling red tape to keep her out, she garnered no love as a former Maquis member and had no contacts at the Academy. Her communicator beeped.  It was Chakotay.

 

"What'd they say?"

 

"They won't take one from me," he answered. "Only from the Captain.  I've had no luck getting a hold of her.  We'll just have to track her down."

 

"She's gonna kill us, she's on her honeymoon."

 

"She'll understand."

 

"You go, I would like to keep my head attached to my shoulders."

 

"Meet me in the transporter room.  We'll make a day of it."

 

"But-"

 

"B'Elanna, relax."

 

****

 

There was a tide pool at the resort beach that was deserted that day. Kathryn thought it was the perfect place to get Seven acclimated to swimming in the ocean. Seven had no experience swimming at all, only the memories and the programming, she knew the movements but had no practical experience. Kathryn swam with her for a while, keeping close tabs on her until she felt comfortable leaving her to swim on her own, then took a seat up on the beach. She had brought some padds detailing the plans for Voyager's refit that she had to review.  The breeze was giving her a slight chill and she slipped on a light shirt she had brought along. Tossing on a hat to shade her eyes she got to work reviewing the data for the refit.

 

***

"Only three miles of beach to comb through,” B’Elanna sighed.  "Maybe should wait for them here.  I don't want to walk up on the Captain being assimilated."

 

"B'Elanna," he took a breath, "That won't happen, believe me.  Look, I'm going to tell you something but you have to swear on your Klingon honor you'll tell no one, understand?"

 

"Chakotay, we were in the Maquis.  I think I can keep a secret."

 

"This marriage is just a smoke screen to keep Starfleet away from Seven."

 

B'Elanna stopped to give him a peculiar look.

 

"Are you sure?"

 

"Yea, I'm sure.  It was my idea."

 

"Well I...hmmm."  She resumed trudging through the sand.

 

***

Janeway glanced up from her padd, the sun blinding her momentarily.  She hadn't heard anything in the tide pool for a while.  She scanned the surface and didn't detect a ripple. Where was she?  She watched for another few moments.  Nothing.  She stood up to get a better view, throwing off her hat.

 

"Seven?" No answer. "Seven!"

 

Now she was running, plowing into the water.  She was waist deep and ready to dive in when she heard a voice.

 

"I thought you were done swimming?" Janeway stopped and saw Seven a few feet ahead of her, treading water.

 

"Where were you?"

 

"I was underwater.  My Borg enhancements allow me to go for long periods without oxygen."  She said, swimming towards her.

 

"I thought...don't scare me like that.  I spent the latter part of my career in the Delta Quadrant keeping you out of trouble, I don't need you in a drowning accident now when we're finally home."

 

Seven was standing in front of her now. "I didn't mean to scare you, Kathryn."  Her voice grew husky when she reached her name. Kathryn was getting a handle on the signs of a frisky Seven, lowered voice, eyes darkening as they were now.

 

"Well, don't do it again."  Her eyes roved down Seven's dark one piece suit and lingered a little...noticeably.

 

"Let me make it up to you," she said, moving closer.

 

Kathryn's hands wound themselves around her waist.  It was happening again, sea air, blue eyes, pheromones.

 

"I don't think that we should be doing this." Janeway said.

 

"No one can hear your protests, I know they're not for yourself and I'm not interested in them," Seven murmured.  She pulled her close and moved in swiftly, searing her lips with a kiss that ended too soon. Kathryn tried to come up with some sort of coherent sentence.  Seven seemed almost smug.

 

"Just...do that again."

 

Seven took a step back.  "Then come and get it."

 

Kathryn moved forward and lost no time in engaging her in another heated kiss that she refused to break away from even as they stumbled back into the water.

 

***

 

"Yea, that's them," Chakotay said as they walked down the beach, then he suddenly froze. "No...that's not them, can't be."

 

"Oh yes it is," B'Elanna said.

 

He glanced over to see her peering ahead with a small set of binoculars.

 

"Where'd you get those?

 

"I brought 'em.  I thought there might be some good scenery...boy is there."

 

"Give me those."  He focused them ahead and saw a better image of Janeway and Seven.  They had separated for a moment, Janeway was saying something, Seven backed away, then the captain pounced on her, and eventually they fell back into the water.

 

He lowered the binoculars and looked over at B'Elanna.

 

"I told you we were going to walk up on something."

 

"But..."

 

"Oh right, you're little secret.  Looks like they have one too.  Let's wait for them back at the hotel.  Did you see that little cabana back there?  I bet they've got margaritas." She turned and began to walk back up the beach.

 

"Chakotay, come on."

 

***

 

When Kathryn and Seven returned to the resort they both looked as if they had gotten plenty of sun and were appropriately sapped of energy. They ran into Chakotay and B'Elanna, who were each on their fourth margarita.  They explained the situation to Janeway, who wrote up a quick recommendation for her on the spot.  As she did she couldn't help but notice a peculiar smile that graced B'Elanna's features but decided not to ask.

 

They had dinner sent to their room and ate on the balcony, watching the sun set. After the meal was finished Janeway waited before broaching the subject that had been gnawing on her mind.

 

"Seven, I don't think this is a good idea," she said quietly.

 

"What isn't a good idea?"

 

"We shouldn't be getting involved like this.  It's just going to make things too complicated for us.  It's not that I don't want to and it's not that I don't care about you but-"

 

Seven slammed her hands down on the table and walked towards the door. Before she exited the balcony she paused to look at Kathryn.

 

"I don't know whether to be angry at you or feel sorry for you because you can't do anything that you don't perceive as a 'safe bet.'  You can take risks with a starship but not with your own happiness.  Perhaps you should consider resurrecting your relationship with Mark and quit attempting your half hearted gambles with the things you really want."  She slammed the door with a resounding boom of thunder.

 

Janeway sighed and forcefully threw her napkin down on the table as the sun disappeared from the sky.

 

***

Seven didn't stay at the hotel that night, she beamed back to Voyager to regenerate, and the silence left in the empty hotel was deafening. Seven's words rang in her ears.  This was what she wanted to avoid in the first place. She thought over the day's events and an image of Seven at the beach swam into her mind and it sent fir burning through her veins that jolted her.  She got herself a hard drink and settled in for the night. After a few glasses of liquid courage she also had herself beamed herself to Voyager and found herself marching into Cargo Bay 2.

 

Seven stood in her alcove, eyes closed and standing perfectly still. She wasn't in her biosuit, rather a pair of khaki pants and a white shirt she had thrown on over her bathing suit.  Her hair was down and partially covered her eyepiece. Janeway tapped in the sequence to interrupt the regeneration sequence.  Seven eyes opened and she looked down at Janeway, noticing the circles under her eyes and the slight slump of her shoulders.

 

"Yes, Kathryn?"

 

"I don't want you upset at me like this, Seven.  I'm sure you can understand my position..." She swallowed and Seven watched her captain say the two words she had never heard fall from her lips.

 

"I'm sorry."

 

A little sigh escaped from her lips.  "I apologize for my earlier outburst.  I was angry at you.  I disagree with your opinion on this matter."

 

"Well, I'm pretty used to that by now."

 

"This is not the end of this debate."

 

"I know," she whispered. "I just couldn't sleep knowing how upset I'd made you."

 

"Get some sleep, Kathryn.  I'll see you in the morning."

 

Kathryn watched as she stepped back up on the dais and began regenerating. Seven returned the next morning and remarkably there wasn't the tension between them she was expecting. They spent the day touring local sites as Janeway tried to draw on her limited history knowledge.  They took a sunset ride on the Jolly Roger after dinner on the beach. The ship dated back to the pirating rum running days of the Caribbean. It was magnificently decorated with strings of lights winding their way up the mast. They walked the deck as the sun settled down into the ocean for the night.

 

"It's fortunate there was no 'plank' on Voyager," Seven commented.  "I'm sure you would've sent me to walk."

 

"You were never that bad."

 

"I had my moments," she said almost wistfully as she gazed up at the sails.

 

"You could be difficult at times.  You probably would've marched right off that plank just to spite me."  She got an image in her head of her ordering Seven to walk the plank and Seven walking right off it in that self assured manner of hers, not pausing for a moment.   She laughed at the image Seven raised her eyebrow as if there was a serious possibility Kathryn had just lost her mind. Janeway leaned against the railing, giving it a little nudge.

 

"I'll bet this ship isn't as old as they say, I'll bet it's a replica. What do you think?"

 

"I don't have enough data to say.  I have no reason not to believe it."

 

"Can't you scan it?"

 

"I could, but I won't."

 

"Why?"

 

"It's better not knowing."

 

"Spoilsport."  She knocked the wood on the rail as if that test could tell her something.

 

"Perhaps you should get out and kick the tires."

 

"Maybe you should try out that plank."

 

"When I walk it I won't scan its age first.  Maybe I should scan you for your age."

 

"You wouldn't dare.  I'd prefer if you'd treat me like a tree and count my rings."

 

"I think that one alone will age you a few years," she said pointing at the Captain's wedding band.

 

"Is the gray showing already?"

 

"Wait until we move in together."

 

She laughed and slipped her arm around Seven's waist.

 

The crew finished moving themselves out of Voyager before the ship disembarked for its refit at a nearby space station.  Most of the engineering crew was tagging along to help and Janeway began the daunting task of moving Seven into her apartment. She was at Starfleet headquarters most of the day when she came home to find most of the living room of her new apartment filled with boxes.

 

"Seven," she sighed in exasperation.

 

"Yes, Kathryn," A blonde head popped up from behind a container.

 

"What is all this?"

 

"My things."

 

 Her face took on a blank unbelieving expression.  "Where did...how did you accumulate so many things? There's not enough room." She looked down into an open box and picked up a computer interface console like the one she had in her ready room.  She attempted to activate it but it didn't respond.

 

"Seven, this is broken."

 

"I'm going to repair it."

 

"When?"

 

There was a pause. "Soon."

 

"Are there other projects like this scattered around in these boxes?"

 

Seven seemed to be having some difficulty answering the question.

 

"Let's get everything organized into now and soon sections.  Soon's going in storage.  That's a command decision."

 

"And you have to stand by command decisions."

 

Kathryn froze in her steps to see Seven's eyes turn a steely blue.

 

"Yes," she whispered.

 

She really wasn't surprised Seven collected things.  Her individuality was still so fragile and part of assisting in that struggle was the concept of ownership, a uniquely individual thing.  The more things she owned the more her individuality was enhanced.  She had encountered enough pack rats in her life to know things could get integrated into self identity.

Seven seemed to have a lot of things she was planning to fix, to rescue from the recycling bin.  Maybe like she herself had been.

 

"How were things at Starfleet?"

 

"Well, they want to start the debriefing in a couple days.  I'm not looking forward to it.  I probably won't be around here much.  I was wondering if maybe you'd like to spend a couple days in Indiana with me before this starts."

 

No answer.    She leaned up from the box she had been going through and didn't see Seven anywhere.

 

"Seven?" She stepped out from behind the boxes to see the tall blonde collapsed on the floor.  "Seven!" She banged her knee hard on the coffee table in her scramble to get to Seven. She was unconscious.  Kathryn checked her pulse on her neck and couldn't find it.  She checked her wrist and noticed a bit of thinness she hadn't noticed before.  Her pulse was weak and her breathing was shallow.

 

"Janeway to Starfleet Headquarters: Medical emergency.  Two to beam to the E.R. I need the Voyager EMH there."

 

"We're more than equipped-"

 

"Voyager's EMH, now! Site to site transport." She took Seven's had as they dematerialized.

 

At the hospital a virtual swarm of emergency personnel surrounded Seven, moving her out of Janeway's sight.  Kathryn became panicked and tried to follow only to find herself being held back.

 

"Captain, please, wait out here," the EMH said forcefully.

 

"But-"

 

"Wait out here.  I'll come get when I know anything," he said as he retreated behind a set of swinging doors.

 

Janeway had been in the waiting room for over an hour when the EMH emerged.

 

"Doctor," she yelped, jumping to her feet.

 

He held up his hands. "She'll be alright, everything's fine."

 

"Can I see her?  What happened?"

 

He took her by the arm and led her to Seven's hospital room, his voice lowering to hushed tones.

 

"Her heart stopped.  Her regeneration alcove wasn't working properly, her body was wearing down, circulatory and respiratory systems were shutting down."

 

"What could stop her alcove from functioning properly? Seven keeps that thing tuned like a piano."

 

They entered Seven's room.  The lights were dim.  A blue sheet covered her and her hair was undone and spilling across the pillow.  A clear facemask was covering her mouth and nose, attached to a machine that was essentially breathing for her.  The unit she was lying on was providing energy for her to regenerate.

 

"She'll have to stay like this for a while," the Doctor said.  He watched as the color drained from her face.  She stepped forward and placed her hand gently on Seven's forehead.

 

"Her alcove was tampered with.  Someone wanted this to happen."

 

She remembered her conversation with Chakotay.  Starfleet intelligence officers moving about Cargo Bay 2.  Her jaw clenched and she leaned up, a cool rage filling her.

 

***

"You're making some very serious allegations, Kathryn."  Admiral Necheyev said, drumming her fingers on her desktop.

 

"Who else?  Starfleet intelligence has been lurking around her from day one."

 

"Did you ever think of your own crew?  There are plenty of people on Voyager who have no love for Seven of Nine."

 

"Why now, after all this time?  I don't have any doubt about who did it, the question is, what are you going to do about it?  She could've died, you know.  How would you feel in my position?  That's my wife."

 

"We'll look into it, alright."

 

"Thank you."

 

***

Janeway came home to the sound of drilling coming from one of the bedrooms.  The high pitched whine continued for a few moments then stopped when she entered the room.

 

"How's it going?"

 

B'Elanna stopped her drill, and took a step back from her work.

 

"Almost done."  She wiped at some of the dust flecks that had accumulated on the regeneration alcove.  "What do you think?"

 

"Looks great," she said, examining the alcove.  "I like it much better than her old one."

 

"I have better design sensibilities than the Borg.  Throw some dried flowers on it and no one will ever notice."

 

"I'm going to make some dinner, you want some?  I should take you out for all you've done but I feel like staying in tonight."

 

"When's Seven getting home?"

 

"They're going to release her in a couple days.  It will be nice to have her new alcove waiting for her, I want to surprise her.  Thanks for putting it together, I know it was short notice."

 

"It was no problem, kept me busy.  I'm still waiting for my application to get processed."

 

"Where's Tom?  I haven't seen him around."

 

"Neither have I," she said.

 

"Oh." She decided to drop the subject.

 

"Did Seven have fun on your honeymoon?"

 

"I think so.  We had a bit of fight on the second night but it worked itself out."

 

B'Elanna began to smile in a way that made Kathryn suspicious.

 

"What?"

 

"Oh nothing.  When we went to get you for that recommendation we sorta walked up on you at the beach.  Chakotay about had a heart attack."

 

Janeway swallowed nervously. "Oh...well"  God, what was Chakotay thinking?  she rolled her eyes and looked back at her meal.

 

****

Kathryn picked up Seven the next day at Starfleet Medical, the EMH prattling off a list of instructions before they left.

 

"How are you feeling today?" Janeway asked as they walked outside.  The sun was gentle and the trees in the park seemed to just shimmer.

 

"I'm functioning within tolerable parameters.  Can we walk home?  The view from the hospital room was lacking."

 

"Sure."

 

"The Doctor said my alcove was tampered with."

 

"Starfleet's looking into it right now."  Inside she knew the investigation would reveal nothing, but Seven didn't need to know that.

 

"We've already taken steps to ensure that won't happen again."  She glanced up at the blue sky and sighed.  "I'm sorry."

 

"Why? You did not sabotage my alcove."

 

"I know but I'm the one who brought you here, insisted that-"

 

"Kathryn, are you going to apologize every time something unpleasant occurs to me on Earth?  I hardly think you should be responsible for the planetary body as a whole."

 

"I know, but this isn't how things should be."

 

"And how should things be?  According to whom?"

 

"I can't handle philosophy right now, let's just enjoy the walk."

 

When they got home Seven looked around in dismay for her missing boxes. Janeway nodded to the bedroom.  "They're in your room."

 

She waited for Seven to go in the room, a little smirk playing on her lips.  She waited for a moment and then followed her.

 

Seven was already scrutinizing the unit. "Does it meet with your requirements?" "It is acceptable.  Thank you, it was very generous of you to allow this to be installed in your apartment."

 

"B'Elanna did the real work, you should thank her."

 

"I will thank you first." She rose and kissed Janeway on the cheek.

 

"Thank you."

 

Janeway smiled.  "Come on, I got dinner planned."

 

"Are we going out?"

 

"No, I'm cooking."  She said over her shoulder as she headed into the kitchen.

 

"I did just return from the hospital, I would like to avoid a repeat visit so quickly."

 

"Get in here, I'm not that bad."

 

Janeway prepared shrimp and rice for dinner and afterwards they sat on the couch and had coffee.  Seven initially declined but Kathryn talked her into it.

 

"Seven, come on.  You never indulged me on Voyager.  Just this once."

 

"Very well." Janeway poured her a cup of coffee.  "Now this is an acquired taste.  It may take a little to get used to."

 

Seven took a sip and tried not to grimace too much. Janeway sat down on the couch next to her and put her feet up on the coffee table.  Seven imitated the action.

 

"You are nervous about tomorrow," Seven commented.

 

The debriefing was starting tomorrow for Janeway by Starfleet and Federation officials.

 

"A little, but I'm sure it can't be as bad as my imagination has made it."

 

She sighed and rubbed her brow.  A quietness overtook her that Seven found profound.  She was really worried.

 

"If they were going to throw you in jail they would've done it by now," Seven said.

 

"That's true."  She cleared her throat and took a sip of her coffee. "This coffee won't make it hard for you to regenerate will it?"

 

"I don't believe so."

 

"Well, the good thing is I'm alright, you' re alright.  That's all that matters."

 

Seven reached over tentatively and touched Janeway's shoulder.  Her hand set on her shoulder like a nervous bird and Kathryn covered it with her own and held it for a moment.  They were silent for a moment.

 

"Well,"  Janeway cleared her throat.  "I think I better turn in early tonight.  I need all the rest I can get."  She patted her hand and stood up.

 

"I should regenerate as well."

 

"Goodnight Seven."

 

"Goodnight, Captain."

 

Janeway paused when she heard her rank, then continued into her room.  She tired to read a little of a book but ended up pondering why Seven had gone back to calling her Captain. When Janeway woke the next morning she got up early to give herself plenty of time to get to the debriefing.  She made herself a coffee and while still dressed in her robe, peeked in on Seven. Seven's new alcove actually had a metallic piece that extended when the unit was activated.  It circled about four inches in front of her waist, securing her in. Psychologically, it made her seem protected in some way and Janeway wondered if B'Elanna had subconsciously designed it that way. She tip toed into the room.  When she was in front of the alcove she got up on her toes and kissed Seven gently on the lips.

 

***

Janeway was expecting to be grilled by a panel of Admirals but what she came into was worse than her most fevered imaginings. It was a hall, in actuality a courtroom used by Federation delegates, the galleries on either side were filled with Federation and Starfleet representatives.  It reminded her of the House of Commons in London, and she knew the big seat in the center was hers.

 

***

Seven's regeneration cycle completed and she woke to the taste of coffee on her lips.

 

***

As Kathryn looked at the people around her she realized she was scared, damn scared. There was no rational need for this fear.  She hadn't done anything wrong, but she was reminded of a story she had read when she was in school about the lady or the tiger, and she felt certain she would be facing the latter.

 

***

 

Several agonizing hours later the day was over and Janeway found herself standing in front of her apartment door with rubbery knees. She stumbled inside to see Seven staring at her with wide eyes.

 

"I must look as bad as I feel," she grumbled, flopping onto the couch.

 

"Things did not go well?"

 

"It was...unbelievable.  I didn't know it was possible to get so many people in one room.  Anyone, everyone you could think of, scientists, diplomats, there was even a representative from the Romulan Empire.  I guess they wanted to make sure we didn't bad mouth them out there." 

 

She pulled her boots off and lied back on the couch.

 

"And this is just day one."  She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.  An aroma caught her attention and she opened her eyes.

 

"What are you doing?"

 

"Cooking dinner."

 

"Oh." She paused.  "Have you ever cooked before?"

 

"No."

 

"Ugh."

 

Seven set the table and Janeway crawled up from the couch. She sat down to a plate of suspicious pasta.  She poked at it a little with a fork and took a tentative bite, Seven watching from across the table. She tried not to give away the slightest grimace at the taste, but wasn't completely successful.

 

"You don't like it," Seven stated.

 

"No, I...it's fine," she said around a mouthful of pasta.  "It's a good first try."

 

Seven stood up, collected both plates and threw them in the recycler with such force they shattered. Janeway tapped her fork on the table and sighed, looking down at the spot where her plate had been.

 

"You made me dinner yesterday, that made me happy.  I only desired to do the same for you.  I have failed."

 

"Seven, you didn't fail." She stood up and approached her.  "You can't be perfect at everything.  Give yourself a chance." She touched her shoulder gently.  "I would've chewed on that pasta all night just because you made it for me."

 

"It would've taken all night.” Seven commented.

 

"How about some soup?  My stomach has been full of butterflies all day and can't handle much else.  I'll just replicate it."

 

Seven nodded and took a step towards the living room before Janeway grabbed her arm.

 

"Seven..."

 

She turned to look at her, her blue eyes electric.

 

"I...thank you."  The words she wanted to say echoed endlessly in her mind for hours afterwards. I love you.

 

***

 

Janeway got up early the next morning and found her first cup coffee had a peculiar taste to it.  She tossed it back in and programmed another cup. Same thing. She went into Seven's room to see her regenerating.  She got up on her toes again to kiss her on the lips, and then set a padd next to alcove asking her if she could take a look at the replicator unit. The second day wasn't as harrowing as the first, but Janeway still left feeling rattled.  Not a good start of the day without a morning cup of coffee. She found herself getting angry, angry at them for putting her through this. The anger kept her from getting tired and giving sloppy answers.  Every answer was clipped and precise.  The day went much faster than before and she found herself home before she knew it.

 

Seven was seated on the couch working on the portable interface unit she had seen earlier.  She glanced up at her and smiled. Smiling?  Holy shit.  Janeway gulped and tried to smile back.  She went over to the replicator.

 

"Coffee, black."  The machine whirred as a cup was produced.  She took a tentative sip and found herself spitting it into the sink as quickly as possible.

 

"That's terrible!  I thought you were going to fix this today."

 

"I did.  You said it was an acquired taste.  Isn't it supposed to taste like that?"

 

"No."

 

Seven made a little sigh as she stood up and went over to the replicator. She removed a circuit board and did some minor adjustments.

 

"Things must be going well, you're still uniform," Seven commented.

 

"Guess so."

 

"Don't worry, I'm not cooking this evening.  Dinner, however is planned.  I am beginning a new rule for you starting today and there will be no arguing, it is a command decision."

 

"Oh really?"

 

"Yes.  No uniforms at the dinner table.  Please change into appropriate attire."

 

"But-"

 

"Command decision."

 

"Who put you in a command?"

 

"I did.  I'm here more than you, therefore I outrank you in this apartment."

 

She did have a point.  Janeway decided not to argue and high tailed it into her bedroom. On the bed she found a flannel burgundy pajama top and bottom folded neatly sitting next to a pair of matching slippers.  The material was incredibly soft, like velvet slipping across her skin.  She took a moment to revel in the feeling before returning to the living room, a little bounce in her step.

 

"Spending more of my money I see.  What do you think?" she asked, turning around.  The color did exactly what Seven had wanted it to; it brought out the highlights in her hair and made her eyes shimmer a dark blue.

 

"It looks very nice," Seven stated as she set the table.  "I ordered out. Heating up food is one thing I am capable of.  I ordered Chinese."

 

"Perfect."  Janeway sat down to her plate of fried rice.  "You're right. This is better than that uniform.  Thank you."

 

Seven nodded and sat down across from her.

 

***

 

"You're cheating, I know it."  Janeway said sourly as she examined her poker hand.  She sat on the couch cross legged, Seven sitting on the other end. "You're implant's twitching."

 

There seemed to be a moment when Seven might believe her, but then her stoic facade returned.

 

"Unlikely."

 

"Then I call."

 

"Full house," she said, laying her cards down.

 

"Damn."

 

Seven smiled a little and gathered the cards back up.

 

"Maybe we should bet."

 

"I have nothing to bet," Seven stated.

 

Oh yes you do, a voice growled in her head. "Well, it's time for me to go to bed anyway.  Thanks for everything today, Seven."

 

"I am merely being a good captain's wife."

 

"Maybe I should've married you while we were on Voyager."

 

A stony silence filled the room and Janeway thought something like pain flickered across Seven's face for a brief moment. That night she lied in her bed and realized without a doubt that Seven loved her, and the feeling was mutual. 

 

***

 

The next morning Janeway felt unaccountably drowsy and stumbled to the shower, peeling off her pajamas as she went.  Her eyes went from tiny slits to wide open shock when she opened the shower door to find Seven standing there, fully clothed, working on the shower head.

 

"Good morning, Kathryn."

 

She gasped and slammed the shower door shut.  She grabbed a towel and covered herself up.

 

"What are you doing?"

 

"Servicing the shower.  It's water use is very inefficient.  We should have a sonic shower."  She opened up the door and stepped out.  "I'm finished now." A little grin was playing on her lips as her eyes raked across Kathryn's form.

 

"Get out of the bathroom.  You aren't going to get to see me naked twice today."

 

The water had enough force to feel like her skin was going to be ripped off. She got out of the shower feeling thoroughly scrubbed and found her uniform waiting for her. When she exited the bathroom she found a cup of coffee and a bagel waiting for her on the kitchen table.  She tasted the coffee and it was tolerable.

 

"Not bad," she muttered. "Seven!"

 

Seven emerged from her room.

 

"That shower, the water pressure's a little too strong, could you lower it a little?"

 

"Yes, Kathryn.  I'm going to try cooking again tonight."

 

"Just follow the recipe and I'm sure you'll do fine."

 

"Recipe?"

 

Oh brother.  She gulped down the rest of her coffee and had to leave the bagel untouched.

 

"I've got to run, I'll see you tonight."

 

The previous night's revelations had left her feeling weary.  That day's debriefing was about the Borg and went late into the evening. The whole time she was kicking herself, knowing Seven was waiting at home trying to cook for her. As she headed out she heard a familiar voice call her name.  She stopped in the crowded hallway and turned to see Commander William Riker approaching her.

 

"Kathryn!  I haven't had a chance to see you since you got back.  How are you?"

 

"I'm pulling through alright.  Are you here the debriefing too?"

 

"Enterprise has interest considering how many times we've been up against the Borg."

 

They stood to the side, ducking into a deserted area by a stairwell.

 

"Can you believe all these people?" she whispered.

 

"I think everyone's just curious, I don't think they're trying to burn you in there."

 

"Then you should try out my seat tomorrow."

 

"Do you want to go get a drink, catch up a little?"

 

"You know, I'd really like to but Seven's cooking tonight.  It's her second try at it and she's a little anxious."

 

"Seven, she's the wife, right? I'd heard you got married.  I saw a picture of her in the briefing packet, definitely not hard on the eyes," he smiled. In fact, that was a big reason he wanted to rekindle his friendship with Janeway.  She had always courted boring studious men, this new development fascinated him.   “I wish all Borg war trophies were so handsome.”

 

"And Captains always get first dibs," she smiled.  "Maybe later.  Are you going to be here for the whole debriefing?  By next week I'll be needed that drink."

 

"Okay, I'll see you next week then," he smiled and watched her go. Who could've guessed?

 

Seven had fallen into a light nap on the couch and never heard Janeway enter the apartment. She was in the middle of a dream, a nightmare.  She twitched and turned over to her side. Janeway decided to wake her. Seven jumped when she felt the hand on her shoulder.

 

"Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you.  Things ran late at the debriefing."

 

"I can reheat dinner."

 

"I'll do it."

 

"I fixed the shower."

 

"Thanks.  I ran into Will Riker today, he wants to me to have a drink with him, probably next week.  Do you want to come along?"

 

"It will give us an opportunity to practice socializing as a married couple. I've been doing some research," she sat up and grabbed a padd off the coffee table.  "I believe we should develop pet names for each other.  The computer had some suggestions," she said, handing her the padd. Janeway scanned the list, and then handed it back to her.

 

"No."

 

"But-"

 

"Seven, do you really want me calling you these things?"

 

"No."

 

"Then it's settled. Maybe I should call you by your given name."

 

"I would not like that either."

 

"Then never mind.  Besides, pet names are usually used in private, not public, Annika."

 

"That was tolerable, I suppose."

 

"Then would you like me to call you that when we're out with Will?"

 

"No."

 

Janeway tried dinner and found it was a huge improvement from the day before.  She even slept better that night. The next morning her good cheer was squashed by a shower that dribbled water like an old hose.  She sighed and rested her head against the wall. During the following weeks Seven overhauled every piece of technology in the entire apartment, sometimes even twice.  Janeway knew she needed to find something for her to do but everything was being consumed by the debriefing and there seemed to be no end in sight.

 

The sessions began to regularly stretch into the evening and Janeway could find little time for anything else but eating and sleeping. Suddenly, Seven's tinkering came to an abrupt stop, and when Janeway found a book on massage lying on the coffee table she knew Seven had a new project: her.

 

*****

Janeway was becoming more distant as the debriefing dragged on, by the sixth week Seven barely saw her at all and was beginning to become uneasy. She needed advice, and she found herself back on the rickety porch where they had gotten married, knocking on a flimsy screen door. The same long haired man answered, this time his hair was flowing freely down his back.  He seemed rather surprised to see her.

 

"Looking for an annulment?"

 

She ignored his question.  "You conduct marriage ceremonies, correct?"

 

"Yea, I guess.  Not regularly."

 

"You are an expert on the institution then?"

 

"Oh god no.  Having some problems?"

 

"I am having difficulty communicating with her and-"

 

"Why don't you come inside?" he said, holding open the door. Inside was a living room, one wall was covered with bookcases, and a beat up couch was pushed up against the other wall.

 

"You're a friend of Chakotay's?"

 

"Yes.  Have a seat."

 

He seemed amazingly more hospitable then the first time she had met him. Chakotay had told him about Seven of Nine and deep down he had felt a lot of sympathy for her.  He knew it would be hard for her to fit in on Earth, to make friends.  That was why when he saw her on the porch her had no qualms about inviting her in immediately.

 

"Would you like something to drink?"

 

"No, thank you."  He went into the kitchen and got himself a glass of water. While he was gone two black kittens roared into the living room, one following behind the other until one had the advantage and pounced. A fierce war cry pierced the air. Seven was watching the display when he returned.

 

"They're a little rambunctious.  Have you been around animals much?"

 

"No."

 

He sat down in a chair next to the couch, tucking his legs up underneath him so he was sitting cross legged.

 

"So, how are things with the Captain?"

 

"She is distant and I am unclear of her feeling toward me.  I don't see her often and when I do she is tired and in an unpleasant mood."

 

"Isn't she still in that debriefing?"

 

"Yes."

 

"That's probably it I'm sure."

 

Seven shifted a little.

 

"Are you always so tense?" He got up and took a box off the bookcase, then sat back down with it.

 

"I'm doubtful that is the case entirely.  My feelings toward her have changed considerably and I am certain hers have as well."

 

"I'm not surprised, you see each other in a different light now, you're not captain and crewmember anymore.  Here."

 

She took the offered object and examined it carefully. "Cannabis?"

 

 "Here's a light."

 

***

 

"I don't understand her," Seven said an hour later, taking another drag off her joint.

 

"Wait until this debriefing thing's over, that's distracting her right now. Then make your move."  He scratched his head and thought for a moment.  "You should have a party for her after this thing's over, give her a chance to relax."

 

"Then I make my move."

 

"Right."

 

She nodded and took another drag.  The kittens started to fight again and she watched them.  Suddenly, a throaty laugh emerged from Seven that caught them both off guard.

 

"Hey, would you like to have one?"

 

"One what?"

 

"A kitten."

 

"I do not know how to care for one."

 

"It's not hard, cats are pretty low maintenance.  I've got one that would be perfect for you."  He got up and walked into another room. He brought back a sleepy eyed gray and black tabby kitten and lied it in her lap.

 

"Pet him, he's got a good motor in there."

 

"Motor?"

 

"Just pet him."  She did as instructed and the cat began to purr loudly.

 

"I should return home, I require food."

 

"Here, take some for later," he handed her a small paper bag. With marijuana in one hand and a kitten in the other she headed home.

 

***

 

Janeway got home to find a kitten sleeping on the couch and Seven devouring a pumpkin pie at the dinner table.

 

"You got a cat?"  She really wasn't fond of cats but could begrudge her a pet if she wanted one, it was a good development step.

 

"Huh? Oh yes."  She was attacking the pie with a fork, not even bothering to cut it into slices. Something was going on.  She stepped closer to her and a smell caught her attention.

 

"Have you been...smoking something?"

 

Seven wordlessly handed her the bag. She opened the bag and the scent assailed her, making her head reel back a little.

 

"Seven, this stuff isn't good for you, you really shouldn't be smoking this. What did you do today?"

 

"I visited Bob, the minister who married us.  He gave me the kitten."

 

"And the marijuana?"

 

"That too."

 

She REALLY needed to find something for her to do.

 

***

Seven did find something to do.  While Kathryn was busy with the debriefing Seven met secretly with her mother to arrange a surprise party for when the ordeal was finally over.  She also contacted B'Elanna to have her contact members of the crew and invite them as well.  B'Elanna thought it was possibly one of the bossiest invitations she had ever received in her life.

 

On the last day of the debriefing Kathryn returned home early to see Seven stalking out of the bathroom, her hair down and dressed in a black silk suit with a plunging neck line.

 

"Your mother invited us over for dinner, she's expecting us soon."

 

"I just got home, I want to relax for a second."

 

"You will have time to relax when we get there."

 

Can't you just stand there and I can gawk at you all night? she pondered to herself.  Oh well.  Seven seemed a little over dressed for dinner.  She didn't think about it much though, the visible cleavage scrambled her thoughts before they could progress further.  She dressed in black slacks and a white shirt.  Since when did her mother and Seven start speaking?  She walked out of her bedroom and found Seven's cleavage scrambling her thoughts again.

 

The afternoon sun was still pleasantly warming Indiana when they got to the Janeway farmhouse. As soon as they got to the door she knew something was going on. The inside was decorated and most of the senior staff was there.

 

"So they didn't throw you in jail?" B'Elanna asked.  Tom was standing next to her smiling mischievously.

 

"Then I guess the rest of us are safe," Chakotay smiled.

 

"They haven't cleared me as of yet, but apparently the Captain has me listed as a 'war trophy'," Seven stated. Everyone laughed and William Riker stepped forward and gave the Captain a little wave. She shook her finger at him, a smile turning up the corners of her mouth.

 

***

The sun set and the party was in full swing.  As soon as Janeway had a chance she pulled Chakotay aside.

 

"I need to talk to you.  I need some advice on Seven. I know you've been busy, that's why I haven't tried to talk to you sooner."

 

A series of tragedies had struck Chakotay's family and he had been busy getting things settled.

 

"You know you can always call.  What's going on?"

 

"I think I'm in love with her.  I know you and B'Elanna saw us at the beach that day, that's as far as its gone.  I don't know what to do."

 

He paused and looked down at his shoes, then back up at his former captain. "You have to discuss it with her.  Ignoring it isn't going to make it go away.  Have you had any discussions about the situation?"

 

"No, not really, just the once when I told her I didn't think it was a good idea  I thought it would just complicate things but I don't know how I can live like this."

 

"Then you need to talk to her right away, before she moves on. I think her heart's open to you right now, but it may not be later on down the road."

 

"I know, you're right of course."  She scanned the party and didn't see the blonde anywhere.  B'Elanna was nearby and she grabbed her attention.

 

"Have you seen Seven?"

 

"No, not in a while."

 

"God, I hope she's not outside smoking that-” She stopped herself and cleared her throat.

 

Their eyes fixed on her.  "Smoking what?"

 

"Seven's been a friend to the herb lately," Janeway muttered.  "Your buddy Bob gave her a whole bag," she said, poking Chakotay.

 

"Seven's been riding the giggly green?" B'Elanna asked with a huge smile.

 

Tom came up. "Seven's smoking pot?"

 

Their heads all swiveled to look at him.  "Huh?"

 

"Old expression."

 

"Anyway, I'm going to go outside and get some air."  Kathryn slipped out the back door and into the night.

 

***

Seven noticed she didn't see Janeway anywhere.  She scanned the crowd and couldn't find her. She exited the house and in the darkness caught a spot of red.  Janeway was standing by the old barn, her hands in her pockets, looking up at the stars.  She never turned to watch Seven approach her.

 

"It's a nice night," Janeway commented when she got closer.

 

"Yes, it is.  Are you enjoying the party?"

 

"Yea, I am.  It was a thoughtful gesture. Thank you.  I seem to be thanking you a lot lately, except in the way you should be thanked."

 

"What do you mean?"

 

Janeway moved closer to her and lightly ran her hand up her arm, fingers drifting along the silk of her jacket.  She traced the curve of her neck, then weaved her fingers into her think blonde hair, cupping the back of her head gently, pulling her down. She just brushed her lips against Seven's at first, breathing in her scent. She deepened the kiss, her tongue pushing forward delicately. Her mouth tasted of wine.  They moved together effortlessly, bodies melding. Kathryn was dizzy when they finally separated.  She trailed her lips to her ear and gave the lobe a delicate swipe with her tongue.

 

"I love you," she whispered.

 

Seven's body tingled with excitement.  "Then perhaps it's time to consummate this relationship."

 

"That would be...very nice."

 

"Then meet me behind the barn in three hours, the party should be over by then."

 

Janeway snickered.  "Do you have any idea how lewd that sounded?  Why don't we go back home?"

 

"We'll discuss it in three hours, or as soon as the party is over."

 

The rest of the night Janeway was downright jittery with excitement, she almost spilled her drink a few times.  Her eyes followed Seven constantly, the anticipation was more than she could stand.  Chakotay commented on distraction and she pulled him aside.

 

"Seven and I are going to ...talk later. I'm a little nervous."

 

"Talk huh? Is that all?"

 

"I'm not confiding in you anymore."

 

***

When the party cleared out Kathryn practically ran to meet Seven behind the barn.  Seven was already standing there, looking across the rolling green crops that stretched into the dark distance.

 

"It is nice here. Someone told me once that I should try sleeping under the stars."

 

Janeway noticed a bedroll spread out on the ground.  "That sounds like a good idea."  She walked forward and took Seven's hands in her own.

 

"Are you okay with this?"

 

"Yes."

 

"I'm sorry I fought...this like I did.  I really thought I was doing the right thing."

 

"I know," she said, leaning in to kiss her. Her hands were already unbuttoning her shirt. Cool air touched her as her shirt fell away.  What if someone came out here? She really didn't care, that and knowing Seven she probably made arrangement so no one would interrupt them.  She unfastened Seven's jacket and slipped it off swiftly, delighted to see Seven was wearing a matching black silk bra.

 

Wow, her overheated mind thought as they tumbled onto the blankets.  They quickly got out of the rest of their clothing and soon nothing separated them as they lied together. Kathryn nuzzled Seven's cleavage, her object of obsession for most of the night.  She sucked each nipple delicately, leisurely, lost in their delicate pink color.  Seven sighed at the attention, running her fingers down Kathryn's back.

 

It was a little chilly and Kathryn reaching down to pull the light blanket up around them, giving Seven a quick kiss as she did so.  Seven moved towards her for another but found Kathryn had disappeared beneath the blanket and was finding other uses for her mouth. She gave each breast a quick kiss before moving lower.  She discovered if she brushed her lips across Seven's ribcage on her right side little giggles came spilling out of the normally stoic Borg.  She performed this splendid little maneuver a few times, laughing herself, until she moved lower. Seven's sex was incredibly engorged and wet.  Kathryn was a little cautious at first since she had never tasted another woman.  She found it to her liking and very tenderly wrapped her lips around Seven's clitoris, giving it delicate little swipes with her tongue.

 

Seven moved her hips up to push herself closer to Kathryn's mouth, encouraging her to be a little more forceful. Kathryn waited until she knew Seven was at the right state of arousal, then put more strength behind her caresses, even reaching down at one point to slip a finger into Seven's welcoming heat.  She didn't move it around inside, just kept it sheathed in her wetness until she felt Seven begin to buck and cry out, her inner muscles clamping down on her. Seven moved with the orgasm, and it racked her body for several seconds. She grabbed Kathryn and held her tight, kissing her neck.

 

"Are you okay?" Kathryn asked.

 

"Okay is an understatement," she murmured into her red hair.

 

"Then you wouldn't mind if I tasted you again?"  She moved herself down Seven's body and quickly drove her to a second orgasm. Afterwards they laid on their backs, looking at the stars, Janeway's head pillowed on Seven's shoulder.

 

"Making love outside was a good idea.  All your ideas are good.  Next time I doubt you toss me out an airlock."

 

"We're not on a ship anymore, but very well."  She watched the heavens above her as they both slipped into a much needed sleep.

 

***

The morning sun made its presence known through Kathryn's eyelids, forcing her from her slumber.No wonder people used to wake with the sun.  It was strange, after all those years in space to be yanked back into a circadian rhythm dictated by a sun and moon.  Seven slept on beside her, her lean form wrapped comfortably around Janeway's smaller one.  They were both naked, sleeping on a makeshift bed behind her mother's barn in broad daylight. What on earth had she been thinking?  And where were her clothes? Seven stirred and rolled over onto her stomach.

 

"Good morning," Kathryn smiled.  "I'm going to borrow the blanket for a second while I gather up our clothes, okay?"  She pulled the blanket away, exposing Seven's naked form.  She had expected Seven to give her some sort of reaction, but she merely lied there contentedly.  Kathryn let her eyes roam the form she had had such a sensuous introduction to the previous night, then wrapped the blanket around herself and gathered their discarded clothing. Seven turned her head sideways and watched her. As she collected their clothes she couldn't stop glancing back at Seven.  It would be wonderful to run her hands over those curves, memorize them, maybe even sculpt them.  She hadn't sculpted anything in over two years.  Towards the end of their time in the Delta Quadrant she had ceased using her DaVinci program all together.

 

"What do you say we get dressed and get some breakfast?  There's a lonely kitten at home waiting for you."

 

"He'll adapt."

 

"Kittens don't adapt, you adapt to kittens."

 

"I thought you didn't like cats?"

 

Kathryn thought of several dirty jokes for that comment but let it go.

 

"I'm going to change in the barn."

 

"I'll go with you," Seven stated, standing up.

 

Kathryn almost gasped at the sight.  "Let's cover you up a little, just in case there's anyone around."  Kathryn took the blanket and wrapped it around the both of them, and they shuffled over to the barn. 

 

"Stay close."

 

They walked in through the barn back door, only to come face to face with Kathryn's sister, Phoebe.

 

"Well...good morning.  I was just putting up the table from last night."

 

"Phoebe-"

 

"I don't want to know.  I'm not asking any questions.  Hi, Seven."

 

"Phoebe."

 

"Listen, don't tell mom, okay?"

 

"No problem."             

 

"We were just on our way home.  We...stayed here last night."

 

"No kidding.  Don't explain. See ya later."

 

It was nice to embarrass her sister for a change.  They changed and caught a transport back home. The kitten had managed to knock over just about everything he get could his paws on and was now sitting on the counter mewling pathetically. Janeway immediately picked him up and cradled him, scratching him behind the ears.  "Poor baby.  You get to clean this up," she said pointedly to Seven as she sat down on the couch.  Seven sat down next to her and Janeway leaned against her, allowing Seven to wrap her arms around her.

 

"I uh, I didn't expect last night at all.  I'm not sure where we go from here, how we can make this work and not jump into this too fast."

 

Seven didn't like her tone and tensed up a little.

 

Janeway turned to look at her.  "How do you feel about me?"

 

Seven gathered her thoughts before answering.  "I find I desire your companionship, I wish to be close to you.  You're an interesting person, I enjoy talking to you.  Sexually-"

 

"Seven, I told you last night I loved you.  I meant that."

 

She swallowed hard.  "I love you, too." Her voice was different, choked with emotion. Janeway smiled and gave her a tender kiss on the lips.

 

"It's hard," she said after a while, "Being married like this, it doesn't give us much space."

 

"And you're used to space."

 

"Yes, frankly I am.  If we jump into this head first we could get lost in our circumstances and get hurt."

 

"I understand what you're saying," Seven stated. Separate rooms, a voice told her.  "Can we still engage in sexual relations?"

 

"No sense in throwing the baby out with the bathwater.  Speaking of baths, I'd like to take one.  Care to join me?"

 

Seven's eyes lit up and Kathryn didn't need an answer.  "Give me a moment, come in the bathroom in about ten minutes."

 

Seven felt her heart tremor with excitement.  This would be interesting.  She watched as Kathryn went to her room, retrieved her robe and went into the bathroom.Seven waited the prescribed time and after shedding her clothes entered the bath area. Janeway had drawn a bath and even lit some candles.  The light was dim and she was propped leisurely against the side of the tub when Seven entered.  She caught her breath at the sight.  She was still surprised to see Seven's naked form.

 

"Come in and try out some of that massage you were reading about."

 

Seven gave her a little nod and stepped delicately into the water.  She slid behind Kathryn and placed her hands delicately on her shoulders.

 

"You are very tense, as I imagined you would be."

 

"Anticipation."

 

Seven smiled and began to slowly knead her shoulders.  "There are certain things that can be done to relieve such tension. One technique involves pressure points," she said, emphasizing her point by applying pressure with her thumbs to such points.  Kathryn sighed and relaxed back into her touch, her limbs turning to jelly.  She closed her eyes and let out a long breath.  Seven's hand continued to rove her body, caressing the muscles of her back and reaching down to gently knead her thighs.

 

"The next technique is crude but effective."  She slid her hands up and gently circled Kathryn's nipples, which rose excitedly to the occasion.  She circled them delicately, barely touching hem.  Soon Kathryn was arching forward to increase the contact but Seven held back, not allowing the situation to get too heated.

 

Janeway growled and turned to face her.  "Tease."

 

"I am doing no such thing.  Your libido is...like a bull released from its pen.  Please turn around so I can continue."

 

"Appropriate analogy." she grumbled turning around and nestling herself back against Seven.

 

"Social lesson number 47, using analogies for better communication.  I believe that one was the suggested analogy to describe the libido of a starship captain lost in the Delta quadrant for seven years."

 

"Highlighted it in your notebook, did you?"

 

"I'll have to find something to occupy your mouth later. No, let us continue." She reached forward and began to torment Kathryn's aching nipples slowly. Janeway opened her legs wider and took slow shallow breaths.  She felt Seven gently run her lips across her shoulder and sighed.

 

"And of course, there is another technique which will relax you."  She slid her hands down and between Kathryn's legs. She gasped and thrust forward but Seven kept her touch as light as she had previously, swirling her fingertips in the slippery moisture. Kathryn gritted her teeth and moved her pelvis forward.  Seven took one arm and slipped it around her waist, pulling her close to her so she couldn't move forward.

 

"Relax," she whispered in her ear.

 

Janeway did as instructed and after a few moments found an orgasm crashing through her body that startled her with its intensity.  She cried out and arched back. When it was over Seven kissed her tenderly on her cheek as Kathryn relaxed in her arms.

 

"That was very nice," she smiled.  "We should probably get out of this water.  You said you would find other uses for my mouth and I don't feel like drowning today."

 

Seven hurried out of the bathtub as fast as her Borg enhanced legs would carry her.

 

***

Several days later Janeway sat in front of four admirals.  They had summoned her to receive her new orders.  She waited patiently, hands folded on her lap.

 

"Captain Janeway, you've been given a command of Research Station 015 orbiting Jupiter.  You will assume your command in three months time."

 

"Research station?  What about Voyager?  Why am I not getting another starship command?"

 

"There's a security matter that restricts you from commanding a vessel."

 

"Which is?"

 

"Your wife.  A former Borg who has made attempts in the past to return to the Collective no less."

 

Janeway's heart sank as her universe crashed around her, making her ears ring. Seven had a visitor that same afternoon.  The doorbell rang and she found Naomi and Samantha Wildman standing before her.

 

"Hi, Naomi wanted to see you.  I was wondering if you're not too busy if you could look after her today, it'd give you two a chance to catch up."

 

"I have no other obligations for the day. Naomi Wildman, would you like to accompany me to the park?"

 

"Of course.  I have so much to tell you.  Hey, is that a kitten?"  She walked past her into the apartment to search out the gray cat who observed her with a bit of worry.

 

"Does he have a name?" she asked.

 

"No, I did not know it was customary to name animals."

 

"Of course it is.  The Captain had said you were getting a dog."

 

"I imagine it’s a possibility."

 

"I'll be back for her at four.  You two have fun."  Samantha waved and stepped away from the door.

 

"We have to think of a name for him."

 

"We can discuss it at the park."

 

Naomi smiled and followed after her.

 

***

 

Kathryn didn't come home that night.  Seven tried every possible way to contact her but had no luck.  It wasn't like Kathryn to not come home.  Eventually she resigned herself to regenerating to get her mind off it. When her regeneration cycle completed she stepped into the dim room and saw Kathryn curled up asleep on the floor before her, still in her uniform, her head resting on a pillow.  She looked tired, even now as she slept.  The kitten slept with her, curled up next to her head.

 

Seven was hesitant to wake her, but wasn't too thrilled with the idea of Kathryn sleeping on the floor either.  She knelt down and nudged her shoulder.

 

"Seven?" she whispered.

 

"Why are you sleeping on the floor?"

 

She shook her head a little and stood up.  The kitten slept on.

 

"Where were you?"

 

She didn't answer the question, her mind couldn't get past the one thing that occupied her thoughts, the one thing she hadn't said.

 

"They took my command, Seven," Janeway whispered.

 

"Why? What did they-"

 

Janeway shook her head.  She couldn't tell her, not now.  The guilt would be too much, too much for both of them.

 

"Come to bed with me."

 

Seven nodded, and helped Kathryn to her feet.  She scooped up the kitten, who looked around groggily as they walked to Kathryn's bedroom.

 

"Did they give a reason?" Seven asked quietly.

 

Kathryn sighed.  "Yea, they did.  Let's not talk about it right now."  She took Seven's hand and squeezed it.

 

When they into Kathryn's bedroom Seven set the kitten down on the bed and unfastened her biosuit, letting it fall around her feet. Kathryn stopped and turned to look at her.

 

"I have no sleeping garments," Seven explained as she stood there.  Kathryn's face flushed as a torrent of thoughts tore through her mind.  This did not go unnoticed by Seven.

 

"Would you like to...make love?"

 

"Not in front of the child," she said, gesturing at the kitten.

 

Seven gave her a small smile and crawled under the covers.  Janeway undressed and joined her.  She nuzzled her neck and took a deep breath.

 

"I just can't believe it.  When I first got command of Voyager it seemed like something to try just out of curiosity, now I can't imagine doing anything else."

 

"Maybe they'll change their mind."

 

"I don't think so."  She wrapped her arms around Seven's bare waist and pulled her closer.

 

"I've never known you to be so pessimistic."

 

"Maybe things will look up in the morning."

 

Seven knew Kathryn was being suspiciously secretive.  When she woke the next morning she found a note on the kitchen table. Kathryn had effectively snuck out in the middle of the night.  The note explained that she needed some time to herself and planned to be gone for a few days.

A few days.  What qualified as a few? The doorbell rang and Seven ordered it open.

 

"I have a name for your cat, Seven," Naomi announced.  She entered the house with a bag slung over her shoulder.  "How about Misty?  He's the color of mist kinda."

 

"Naomi Wildman, what do you define as a few?"

 

"I guess it depends on what you're talking about, 3-4 maybe."

 

"Kathryn has left for a few days.  I find her lack of clarity unacceptable."

 

"Are you upset?  You look sad."

 

"I'm unsure." She took a deep breath and tapped the note with a mesh encased finger.  "I'm glad you're here Naomi."

 

"Are we still on for racquetball?"

 

"Yes, or course."

 

"Don't be sad, Seven."

 

She sighed deeply.  "I'm sad, but I'm not sure why.  Let's go play our game."

 

Seven was a little restrained in her playing to give Naomi a chance.  They were both new to the game and were easing into it carefully.  Naomi's height had shot up considerably since Seven had first met the girl and she held her own well with the former Borg. The speed of the game picked up and Seven seemed more interested in playing with the wall more that Naomi.  Naomi stepped aside and watched Seven. She had never seen the ex drone so expressive.  She grunted and grimaced with each grimace and in one final stroke she yelled as she swung at the ball, shattering it against the wall.

 

"Gosh Seven, you're really pissed off."

 

"Pissed off?  Yes, I'm pissed off.  Enough of this."  She tossed her racket down and began stalking away.

 

"Where are you going?"

 

"To get Kathryn's job back."

 

***

Kathryn Janeway stood on the porch of a house, scanning the dusty shrub filled horizon.

 

"I didn't expect you so soon."

 

She jumped at the voice and turned around to smack a grinning Chakotay on the arm.

 

"You scared the hell out of me.  I thought were out there, watching the herd or whatever."

 

"They don't need a lot of watching."

 

"You know, I never saw you as a cowboy."

 

"Me either.  It's harder than I thought it would be."  He put his hands in his pockets and looked out where her gaze still lingered.

 

"I'd like to think you came out just to see me, but you look troubled.  How are things with Seven?"

 

"That went pretty well, it Starfleet.  They don't want to give my command back."

 

"Command of Voyager?"

 

"Command of anything."

 

"You're kidding?  What a bunch of assholes.  Did they give a reason?"

 

"Did they really need one?  They said it was because of Seven."

 

"Does she know?"

 

"No, I couldn't tell her.  I don't know what to do.  I need some time to sort things out."

 

"You can stay here if you want, if solitude's what you're looking for.  It's pretty quiet around here, I'm not around the house too much. You can help me with the cattle, hey," his eyes lit up.  "You could be my first officer."

 

A few days stretched into a lot more.  Kathryn realized that as she peered up into the sun after falling on her ass as she attempted to repair a fence along the outskirts of the cattle's grazing area. She stood up and gave the offending fence post a good kick. Looking around she drew a deep breath.  It was calming here, even if she did have no particular fondness for cows.  She leaned down, gave the barb wire a tug and managed to get it reattached to the fence. She dusted her hands off and climbed up into the saddle of her horse.  She took a lazy ride back to Chakotay's house, unsaddled her mount and after cleaning up a bit went back to the porch where she had set up a small area for sculpting.  The area had a natural clay in the soil that compelled her to do some artistic meanderings. Sitting down in chair and as her hands began to mold the clay her mind began to wander, as did her hands.  She didn't realize it unto Chakotay's voice interrupted her.

 

"Nice."

 

She had molded a very voluptuous female torso and her hands were right on the headlights.

 

She shot him a warning glare, "Dammit, Chakotay!"

 

He started laughing and she hurled a chunk of clay at him. He ducked back inside and emerged later with two frosty bottles of beer.

 

"So I take it you got a look at the promised land," he commented, handing her a bottle.

 

"You could say that."

 

He sat down on a chair beside her and kicked his feet out, "Did that fence give you any problems?"

 

"No."

 

There was silence for a while before he spoke.  "You have to talk to her, Kathryn.  Remember what I told you at the party? Her heart's open to you, but it may not be forever.  Don't mess this up."

 

"I know, " she sighed, taking a sip from her beer.  "It would be easier if it wasn't for this whole marriage thing."

 

"I know."

 

"I don't know how to approach this, how to deal with it all.  She'll...I'm terrified what she'll think, terrified she'll blame herself, or think that I resent her, or even resent me for putting her in this situation."

 

"I thought you came here to think things out but I think it maybe time to go back, you're just hiding now."

 

"You're right. Everything just seems so tenuous right now, like it’s just going to crumble apart."

 

"Not if she loves you, she'll understand, but you have to give her a chance to do so."

 

***

 

The next day Janeway collected her things and headed home. When she entered the apartment the computer monitor on the wall beeped loudly, informing her of a pending message.  She went to the screen and read it.

 

I have left for "a few days." Naomi will be coming by to see to the cat's nutritional and emotional requirements. Seven of Nine

 

"Damn," Kathryn muttered.  She had really wanted to see her, she had really missed her in the past few days.  She hadn't realized how much she had grown accustomed to Seven's presence. The kitten sat on the counter watching her curiously.

 

"What are you doing on the counter?  I can see Seven's not teaching you social etiquette. Not surprising."  She picked him up and put him on the floor.  After getting herself a scotch she sat down on the couch, putting her feet up on the coffee table. The kitten bounded over and sat up by her shoulder.

 

"You know," she sighed, "I don't like cats.  You can't take a cat to the park, you can't throw a frisbee for a cat, can't go jogging with a cat." She stopped to sip at her drink.  "They leave hair everywhere, self assured, hell, barely domesticated."  She turned to look at the kitten who obligingly rubbed his cheek against hers.

 

"I guess things don't go as you plan, do they?" she asked him ruefully.

With glazy eyes he gave her a little squeak. Several days passed with no sign of Seven.  Janeway was practically at her wits end, but she knew she had no room to criticize, after all, hadn't she done the same thing?  During that time she managed to turn their porch into a small arts studio where she sculpted during the day, and at night curled up on the couch with a book, the kitten nestled next to her. It was during one of these lazy afternoons that she heard the front door open.  Both she and the cat looked at each other in surprise and she jumped up, fumbling with a towel as she cleaned her hands off.

 

"Seven, I..."  She froze as she entered the living room, seeing Seven dressed in a Starfleet Intelligence uniform, lieutenant pips at her collar.  Her face was a mask, her blue eyes icy, unyielding.  She walked with a formal air over to Janeway and handed her a padd.

 

"Your command has been restored."

 

Kathryn took the padd and read her new orders.  She was once again commanding officer of the U.S.S. Voyager, which was under going an intensive refit.  She swallowed hard and looked at Seven.

 

"How?"

 

"This was the price," Seven said, gesturing at her uniform.

 

"Oh God Seven, you didn't have to-"

 

"Of course I did."  She looked up, her eyes blazing. "I love you. I trust you, have  confided in you, but you do not find me worthy of such faith."

 

"That's not true."

 

"Then why did you leave? Your actions spoke of your feelings.  It is acceptable because you do not owe me those things, but I do not like it."  She brushed past her and stalked to her room.

 

"What-where are you going?"

 

"To regenerate."

 

"Don't you- don't you just drop a bomb like that and just walk away!" 

 

She tossed aside the towel she had been holding and chased after her.

Seven was already stepping into the unit when she caught up with her

 

"Don't turn that thing on!"  She jumped into the unit as the metal half circle began to extend, locking them together, nose to nose.

 

"Deactivate it!" Seven demanded.

 

"I can't reach it.  I guess we're stuck."

 

Seven glowered and lowered her gaze.  They were pinned together, not a breath between them.

 

"We're going to discuss this."

 

"No."

 

"Then I'll stand here until you talk to me.  Seven, you don't have to do this, to hell with my command."

 

Seven said nothing.

 

"I didn't leave because I didn't have faith in you or because I didn't want to share with you.  It was a bad decision and I'm sorry.  I should have been honest with and I was wrong."

 

"Your actions-"

 

"Were badly inspired.  I'm new to this, Seven, to us.  I didn't know what to do, how you would handle it.  I love you with everything I’ve got in me, you have to believe me."  She moved her hands up and rested them on the blonde's waist."

 

"Deactivate this device."

 

"I told you, I can't reach it."

 

Seven tried to twist sideways to reach it herself, and only managed to press their bodies closer together. They were both silent for a long time, neither woman looking at each other.

 

"I can't bear the fact that I've hurt you," Janeway whispered.  "It was never my intention, I was trying to do just the opposite."  She drew a shaky breath and Seven's eyes darted quickly to hers, noting the moisture that had gathered there. It shocked her and she sucked in a harsh breath.

 

"I've...never seen you cry."

 

Kathryn looked up, a single tear cascading down her cheek. Seven reached up and brushed it away.  Kathryn leaned into the caress. Seven felt her chest constrict and it frightened her.  She was just a drone in the service of her queen.  She kissed her gently on the lips, her arms coming around to hold her reverently. More tears flowed freely down both of their cheeks.  Seven reached up and touched her own cheek, surprised by the moisture.

 

"Do you believe me?" Janeway asked.

 

"Always," Seven whispered.  She tightened her embrace and they held each other for a long time. Kathryn skirted her fingertips up Seven's side and tickled her on the spot she had learned behind her mother's barn. Seven sucked in a breath and tried to pull away, but there was no where to go. Kathryn grinned and kissed her on the cheek.

 

"I love you so much, you know that?" She ran her fingertips across her face and kissed her deeply.

 

Seven relaxed, the tension flying away from her body.  She moaned into Kathryn's mouth and hugged her tight. Kathryn pulled back.  "Why don't we- oh damn, we're still stuck in this thing."

 

"Can't you reach the controls?"

 

"I told you I couldn't."

 

"I thought you were being dishonest."

 

"Ok, here's the plan, suck it in."

 

"What?"

 

"Just...hold on."  She shimmied her body down, bending at the knees and ducked out form under the restraining device.

 

"There!" She deactivated the device and it slid back into place and offered Seven her hand. "Come with me, I want to know everything that happened."

 

"Later.  Now I must regenerate.  I'm tired."

 

She wasn't sure if it was true, it seemed like there still may be some distance between them still after all that would have to be resolved later.  She nodded and stepped away from the unit.

 

"Pleasant dreams," she whispered.

 

Seven reactivated the device and closed her eyes.

 

Kathryn slept very uneasy that night and in the early morning went in to look at Seven.  She indulged what had become her habit and got close to the unit, and then getting up on her toes, kissed Seven delicately on the lips. At that moment, the regeneration cycle ended.  The device disengaged, the barrier between them retracted and the she fell forward into Seven's arms, her lips glued to hers. Seven immediately wrapped her arms around her and moaned, pulling her in.  They separated and Kathryn blushed furiously at being caught.  Seven seemed indifferent to her embarrassment.

 

"I've missed you," she said throatily.

 

"I've missed you, too."

 

Seven picked her up easily and began to carry her to the bedroom against her meager protests.

 

"But Seven, I want to know what happened."

 

"Later." She carried Janeway into her bedroom and lowered her gently to the bed.  She was very delicate, taking time to drop tiny kisses across her nose, eyelids, and cheek bones before delving into another deep kiss that lasted for an eternity. Kathryn stopped her protesting and eased into the sensations. Soon her top had been removed and the gentle explorations continued across her breasts, her nipples being teased delicately, Seven taking an inordinate amount of time giving attention to each one, rolling the nipple around in her mouth as if she were tasting a fine wine.

 

Kathryn moaned and tangled her fingers into Seven's blonde tresses, hugging tight.  Too tight for a moment, Seven leaned up and threw her a glance, and she relaxed her hold. Seven moved further down and kissed her abdomen, carefully unfastening her pants and sliding them down. Kathryn knew where she was heading and caught her breath.  Seven had never gone down on her before and a little nervousness flooded her form.  In fact, no one had gone down on her ever.  She had been too much of a control freak and unwilling to trust someone to that extent.

 

Seven took one of her legs and hooked it over her shoulder, exposing her to her gaze and the cool morning air. Kathryn sucked in her breath, fighting the warring emotions that filled her.  Seven could feel her tense a little and looked up, her eyes capturing Janeway's stormy blues.  She could see a wall there and paused.  Reaching up she took Kathryn's hand and pulled her up into a sitting position so she could kiss her delicately, which she continued to do until the tension left, and then moved lower with Janeway's blessing. Janeway leaned back into the pillows behind her and closed her eyes.  She felt a soft breath touch her heated center then a delicate tongue swiped across her clitoris and she sighed as the remaining tension left her body.  Seven glided her tongue slowly around the entire area, dipping in to taste her, driving her tongue in as far as it could go.  Kathryn writhed beneath her and gasped, as if the action caught her off guard. Seven continued this maneuver until Kathryn began to move her hips in a more frenzied motion so she drifted up and sucked her clitoris into her mouth, then releasing it to torment with hard little swipes until Kathryn arched off the bed and gave a long scream, then collapsed back into the bed. Seven took her in her arms and held her for a while.

 

"Get out of that uniform and tell me what happened," Janeway grumbled. 

 

Seven did as ordered, slipping out of her clothes and returned to her comfortable position snuggled against her captain, who obviously had decided to put off their conversation just a little longer as she melded their mouths together, tasting herself on Seven's tongue.  She dipped down and tasted Seven's breasts with the same amount of leisure Seven had demonstrated earlier.  Seven wrapped her arms around Janeway's waist and held her tightly.  They were lying on their sides and Kathryn liked the way gravity helped those magnificent breasts find their way into her mouth.  She nuzzled them and inhaled deeply, her hand skittering down to play idly at the damp curls she found below.

 

Suddenly, there was an urge in her to be on top, to be in control. She urged Seven onto her back and shifted so she was lying over her, her fingers still caressing the soft flesh between her legs.  Seven opened herself, wrapping her legs around Janeway's waist, and gave her a little smile. Kathryn's fingers slipped easily inside of her and soon they found a heated rhythm.  The bed frame creaked and the air was filled with grunts and cries.  Their bodies were covered with a thin sheen of sweat and all the while Kathryn stayed focused on Seven's eyes, watching them change to a brilliant blue.  Her expression was so tender it made Seven's eyes fill with tears until her orgasm came crashing down on her and she shut her eyes tight, tears spilling down her cheeks.  Janeway reached up and brushed a tear away, forcing Seven to look at her as the orgasm continued to crash through her body.

 

It was a matter of trust, and they both knew it.  Trust had been broken and had to be rebuilt.  With amazing speed Seven touched Kathryn, and she orgasmed so quickly they were still riding out their respective climaxes as they collapsed into each others arms. They were silent for a long time, and then Seven began to tell her the story of how she had become a Starfleet Intelligence officer.  She had stormed into Starfleet Headquarters and had created such a ruckus that she had actually been arrested. While she was waiting in her cell she received a visit from an Admiral who never identified himself, and made her an offer.  If she took a position in Starfleet Intelligence and disclosed everything she knew of the Borg, Kathryn could have Voyager back. She had accepted the offer, and spent the last few days going through a rather hurried officer training, and was already set to begin work on the Borg project.

 

"They could've just asked," Kathryn grumbled.

 

"I would have refused otherwise."

 

"Keep you enemies close," Kathryn sighed.

 

"What's done is done."        

 

"No, I don't-"

 

"I'm not unhappy with my decision.  They told me I could leave anytime I wanted."

 

"You should be doing better things."

 

"Such as?"

 

"Well...what do you want to do?"

 

She smiled and gave her a quick kiss.

 

"Are you trying to shut me up?"

 

"Yes."

 

"Well, it's working," she grinned.

 

***

 

B'Elanna Torres peddled along furiously through the park, working up her pulse as she roared along the bike path.  Light filtered through the branches above her bit she barely had time to notice. As she sped along a shapely blonde in a Starfleet uniform caught her attention.  She turned to look and was shocked to see it was Seven of Nine. Seven watched as a very startled B'Elanna zoomed past her and crashed into the bushes. When she got over to her she was lying under the bike, one tire spinning helplessly in the air.  Shielding her eyes from the sun the part Klingon woman watched as Seven leaned over her and offered her a hand.

 

"Are you damaged?"

 

"No, just a little...surprised.  Are you playing dress up or is that for real?"

 

"It's for real."

 

"They gave you a commission?"

 

"At a price."  She pulled the other woman to her feet and righted the fallen bike.

 

"I'm on my way home.  Would you like to join me?"

 

"Sure, I'd love to see the Captain.  So, what's she think about you're commission?"

 

"She's not pleased."

 

"I thought she'd love the idea."  They began to walk together down the path, B'Elanna pushing her bike along. "Look at the good side, you look great in that uniform.  I bet the Captain won't be able to keep her hands off you.  You'll be getting some action."

 

"B'Elanna Torres!" She snapped, her cheeks reddening.

 

"Oh my...you have, haven't you?  You finally bagged the Captain.  Look at you, you're practically crimson."

 

"This conversation is not appropriate."

 

"Well, congratulations.  She seems like she'd be a tough catch."

 

"It...was a difficult task."

 

When they got home B'Elanna busied herself with parking her bike by the front door as Seven went inside. Kathryn emerged from the back patio wearing a loose cotton white button up shirt and jeans.

 

"There you are, I was getting worried," she made a low noise in her throat that sounded like a growl.  She slid her arms around Seven's waist and pulled her in tight for a deep kiss.

 

Seven pulled away after a moment.  "B'Elanna is here, I invited her over for dinner."

 

Kathryn froze and looked over the tall blonde's shoulder at her former engineer.  She swallowed hard.

 

"Hi, B'Elanna. I'm going to go get changed." Her face flushed red as she hurried out of the room. Seven seemed a little confused and looked to B'Elanna, who pulled her aside.

 

"She's just a little uncomfortable that I witnessed her in a private moment.  I was her crewmember for seven years," she explained in hushed tones. She stepped back and smiled, "I think I was right about the uniform.  Even I almost broke my neck trying to get a look at you."

 

"Almost broke your neck doing what?" Janeway asked, emerging from the bedroom dressed in dark black sweater and wearing the same jeans.

 

"I was riding my bike in the park and was too busy leering at your wife and wrecked, that's how we ran into each other, or at least I ran into the bushes.  I was telling her she looks real nice in that uniform Captain.  You better watch her, I'm a single woman now."

 

"I'll keep it in mind." She threw Seven a little smile which delighted the Borg to no end. They had a nice home cooked meal and B'Elanna caught them up with everything that was going on back at the Academy.  After having a few glasses of wine at dinner Janeway and B'Elanna decided to continue down that path with a few brandies while sitting on the porch.  Since Seven and alcohol were a tenuous combination she decided to stay inside and let B'Elanna and Kathryn catch up. The two women settled into their chairs on the patio and sipped their brandies while enjoying the fresh evening air.

 

"So, how are things going?" B'Elanna asked.

 

"Ok.  By the way, I never got to thank you for that silk nightgown you bought Seven, I think I got the most out of it so I owe you."

 

"You old dog, Captain."  She turned to look at her, "You're just bursting to talk about it aren't you?"

 

"Now Lanna, I don't kiss and tell...but you don't mind some girl talk do you?"

 

"Not with a few drinks in me, no.  It's okay Kathryn, I know."

 

"Know what?"

 

"That this is a new situation for you.  I know why you had to get married.  Don't worry, it's safe with me.  After I saw you two together in your quarters before you left Voyager I figured this would happen.  So, was it good?"

 

She gave her arm a squeeze.  "Are you kidding! Oh my god!  I don't know, they say when women get my age they reach their sexual peak and I'm feeling it."

 

"What a person to peak with.  Does she have any vibrating parts?"

 

"That she doesn't.  I'm trying to just relax and enjoy myself, try not worry," she said with a shrug.

 

"What are you worried about?"

 

"Everything.  The age difference, careers, the way we got thrown into this situation.  We had a fairly good fight just recently.  I hate fighting with her, she's ruthless."

 

"How was the make up sex?"

 

"Fantastic."

 

"Well, there you go."  They started laughing hard, both women holding their sides.  Seven poked her head out of the door, gave them both a strange look, and then went back inside, which only made them laugh harder.

 

***

 

The Intelligence division within Starfleet that was exclusively devoted to the Borg was enormous, and Seven was surprised when she was warmly welcomed into the department.  She found herself actually enjoying her new duties.  There were several departments from reverse engineering of Borg technology to sociology, and Seven was the designated liaison between the departments.  She was assigned a young ensign to assist her.

 

A new commanding officer was assigned to the project just days after Seven had begun her assignment, a Commander Shelby, who developed a rather instant dislike of Seven and her utter lack of respect of Starfleet protocol.  Seven, who would not suffer fools gladly, gave the commander and her opinions little mind. Seven's assistant, Ensign Shannon Wilkes returned the favor by developing a distaste of her own for the new commanding officer out of her own sense of loyalty to Seven.  

 

"She's a real bitch," she commented to Seven one day.

 

"Versus an artificial one?" Seven smirked in that peculiar little way of hers when she found humor in something.

 

"You know what I mean."

 

"She does not concern me," Seven said as they examined some star charts in the enormous Astrometrics lab.

 

"Well, I think-" She hushed when the aforementioned commander stepped into the lab.

 

"I thought you were going to have that report to me today?"

 

"I did not say it would be completed by today."

 

"But I requested it."

 

"Yes, you did, but it is not," she said, turning to appraise her coolly.

 

"When I ask for a report at a certain time I expect it to be done."

 

"Then expect to be disappointed again in the near future."

 

The ensign bit her lip to hid the snicker that twisted her lips into a tight grin. Shelby's mouth dangled open and was interrupted when the door to the lab opened.  She turned around and was shocked to see Captain Kathryn Janeway walk into the room in full uniform.  Seven looked up and felt her heart jump a little at the sight of Kathryn in her new uniform.

 

"Captain!" she exclaimed, clearly awestruck. "What brings you Astrometrics?"

 

"The same thing that's brought me to Astrometrics for the past three years.  I hear there's a lovely young lieutenant here who may be free for lunch."

 

Shelby was stunned to see Seven practically beaming at the Captain, at least as close to beaming as Seven can get, which mainly consisted of a small smile and a softening of her gaze.

 

"You heard correctly, Captain."  

 

"Well then, shall we?"  She asked, hold out her arm.  Seven slipped linked their arms cozily and they strolled out of the room, not before Janeway gave Shelby a cool gaze and an almost dismissive nod of her head. Shelby gaped at the ensign after the couple had left.

 

"What?  You didn't know?  She only wears a glaringly obvious wedding band just like Captain Janeway's.  They really keep you in the dark, don't they Commander?" Shelby glowered. After they left the lab Seven glanced at Janeway.

 

"You're wearing a uniform."

 

"I had a meeting today."

 

"But you're still on leave.  You were throwing your weight around for the benefit of the Commander."

 

"Maybe I was.  She needs to know that if she tangles with you, she tangles with me.  When it comes to you, I'll throw my weight around any time."

 

Seven felt that awful clenching in her chest again, like when she had seen Kathryn cry in her alcove.  When they stepped into an elevator Seven dropped a feather light kiss on her captain's temple. Janeway was a little surprised by the sudden affection and smiled at the tall blonde.  "I thought we could have lunch at the Officer's Club, have you been up there yet?"

 

"No."

 

"You'll love it, it's on the top floor, wonderful view of the bay, it's gorgeous."

 

Seven reached down and gently took Kathryn's hand in her own and gave it a squeeze. Kathryn was tickled by Seven's suddenly affectionate behavior and held her hand until they were seated at their table. A realization was dawning on Seven that day, her feelings for Janeway were changing considerably, they were deepening in a way she had not imagined was possible.  Not that she had not been in love with her before but it was deeper now and infinitely more complex.  It was almost painful at times, the sheer strength of the emotion that would course through her unexpectedly at times, spurred by the smallest action on Kathryn's part, a smile or a kind word.  At lunch, Seven sat there transfixed by Kathryn's eyes, and only once glanced out the windows that overlooked the bay.

 

It was difficult at times, to feel such emotion and not having the ability to voice it properly.  That day when she left work she picked a single rose and took it home to Kathryn.  She fingered it idly as she walked home and was still holding it when she entered the apartment.

 

"That's a nice rose."

 

Kathryn's voice knocked her out of her reverie and she looked up at her beloved, and held out the rose silently.

 

"Thank you, it's beautiful."

 

"As are you," she said, reaching out to brush back a lock of Kathryn's auburn hair.

 

"Seven..." she stammered to a stop when Seven grabbed her up tightly in an embrace.

 

"Kathryn," Frustration at her inability to express herself welled to the surface and her eyes teared up. Finally, the words found her.  "I love you."

 

Janeway hugged her tight and held her for a while.  "I love you, too.  I have an evening planned for us if you're interested, Lieutenant?"

 

"Of course."

 

Janeway surprised her by whisking her away to New York City for dinner. They ate a restaurant that a very nice view of the Brooklyn Bridge.  Seven wore her uniform and Kathryn wore a black dress.

 

"You know, I never appreciated how nice it was just to wear normal clothes.  Maybe I'll quit, become a housewife."

 

Seven rolled this comment over as she chewed on her dinner.

 

"It would not suit you," she commented finally.

 

"No, probably not.  I'm going to have to go see Voyager at Utopia Planetia for a little bit.  I'll probably have to go out there more frequently the more the refit progresses."

 

"Oh," Seven said quietly.

 

"It won't be too bad, I promise."

 

"And once Voyager is refit?"

 

"That won't be for awhile, Seven.  Voyager doesn't have any orders or even a crew right now, it's like starting over from scratch."

 

Seven nodded and looked out across the water. Kathryn reached across the table and squeezed her hand.

 

"Don't look so down, sweetheart, we have time."

 

"Do we?"

 

"Yes, we do."

 

"I would like to serve with you again on Voyager."

 

"Don't trust me on my own, do you?"

 

"No."

 

She laughed.  "I'll keep that in mind."

 

A few days later Janeway left for Voyager.  She was going to be gone for two weeks and Seven found the prospect of being alone in the apartment a little frightening.  She had never occupied a living area alone before, and Cargo Bay 2 hardly counted. The first few nights she was uneasy and thankful for the kitten's presence.  Eventually, she began to adapt, she even invited her young assistant over for dinner one evening. One day when she was at work her assistant came in carrying a vase of flowers so large that she had to peek around it to see her way.

 

Seven looked up from her console.  "Ensign Wilkes?"

 

"These were delivered for you," she said, setting the vase down.

 

Seven looked at them perplexed.

 

"Well, read the card."

 

She found the card and pulled it out of the envelope.

 

"What's it say?"

 

"It's from Kathryn.  She wanted me to be aware that she was thinking of me."

 

"She's quite a catch, your captain."

 

"Yes, she is."

 

"Have you ever thought about taking her name?"

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"Well, it's hard to know what to call you, Lt. Seven, Lt. Seven of Nine, Lt. Nine.  It would be easier to call you Lt. Janeway."

 

"Lieutenant Janeway," Seven said quietly.

 

"Oh, I almost forgot, this was delivered with it, too," she said, pulling a box out of her pocket. It was a dark velvet box and she opened it to see a shimmering silver chain with a teardrop sapphire pendant.  Ensign Wilkes peered over her shoulder to catch a peek.

 

"That's gorgeous, Seven.  It matches your eyes."

 

The door opened unexpectedly and they both looked up to see a solitary Vulcan approaching.

 

"Commander," Seven exclaimed, her cool demeanor hiding her thrill at seeing Tuvok.  She hadn't seen him for some time. He stood rigid and linked his hands behind his back.  "Seven of Nine, there's something I must discuss with you in private." Wilkes knew that was her cue to leave and did so. After she was gone Tuvok drew himself up, taking a deep breath.

 

"There has been an accident at Utopia Planetia involving Captain Janeway."

 

 The chain slipped from her hand and drifted to the floor

 

 

***

 

Seven stared at Tuvok fixedly.  He stepped forward and picked up the necklace she had dropped and studied it for a moment.

 

"What happened?" she asked finally

 

"Voyager suffered a massive engine failure, the warp core breached.  She was not in dock at the time.  The warp core was ejected but the system failures caused the core to eject too late and it exploded close to Voyager. Extensive damage has been reported.  No contact has been established with anyone inside.  A breeching team is approaching the ship now."

 

"What's taking so long?"

 

"It is a hazardous materials situation.  The exploded warp core matter has caused a radioactive field near Voyager that is disrupting communications, sensors and transporters."

 

"I have to get there."

 

"A transport has already been arranged."

 

***

Tuvok had always known Seven to be a logical individual, but when that logic left it flew away fast and far.  She stared fixedly out the windows of the starship that was barreling towards Utopia Planetia, as if her Borg enhanced vision could detect something before the rest of them. They were in a small waiting area, the ship was a small one, dispatched immediately once the accident was reported.  The breaching teams had already gotten inside but there was still no word of what they had found inside. Tuvok was sitting quietly watching Seven.  He hadn't said a word since they boarded but finally decided to speak.

 

"Perhaps meditation would calm-"

 

"No," she barked sharply.  Her agony consumed her now, and she didn't want a moment without it. The flight was short and reached amazing warp speeds.  They dropped out of warp several meters away from a decimated U.S.S. Voyager. Seven felt her jaw slacken at the sight.  It was almost inconceivable to her that the little ship could be damaged at all, it seemed untouchable, a safe haven, but now as she looked at it she knew Voyager's journey had come to an end.  One of the warp nacelles had been blown off and a huge gash had been torn form under its belly up to the entrance of the shuttle bay.  Twisted metal and wiring hung bared for all to see.  Her enhanced vision picked up large heat signatures inside, there were fires burning inside.  An out of control fire meant certain death for a starship. She never noticed Tuvok rise from his seat and stand next to her.  After a moment she turned to look at him.

 

"Open a comm link to whoever is in charge of the breaching teams."

***

Kathryn Janeway didn't know where she was, or what had happened.  It was dark and the air seemed heavy.  She was immobilized under something heavy.  Tentatively, she drew her legs up and found them to be free from any entanglement.  She then decided to roll to her feet and there was an awful tearing in her shoulder.  All she could manage was a muffled cry.  Her left shoulder and arm were pinned good.  She reached over to her trapped shoulder and felt something sticky covering her side. She closed her eyes against the total darkness and took a shallow breath.  Whatever had happened, it had been bad.  She reached over and gripped a steel girder that had fallen near her.  She gripped it for a while, formulating her thoughts.  Finally, she opened her eyes.

 

"Okay, this is probably one of the last time we'll be having one of these discussions, Voyager.  Get everyone out safely and you can take my life in trade.  The captain will go down with her ship.  Do we have a deal?"

 

***

 

Seven had to get on one of the breaching teams.  She would have to convince the incident commander that she would be an asset to the mission, not an hysterical spouse.  The only commanding officer she had ever had to manipulate to get what she desired had been Kathryn, who usually folded for obvious reasons, usually all that was required was a lingering gaze and a please. She would have to develop another method.

 

***

"Seven! Release the Commander's throat immediately!" Tuvok barked.

The Commander managed a few 'acks' before he was released and dropped to his knees.

 

"Okay..." he wheezed.  "The enhanced strength is impressive."

 

"It is not irrelevant and could serve you in the search on Voyager.  I could remove fallen bulkheads and equipment in confined areas.  I am also intimately familiar with the layout of the vessel. I am Borg, Commander.  I will be efficient."

 

He got to his feet and brushed off his pants.

 

"Okay, you're in.  The main rescue teams have already headed over.  I'll give you a quick debriefing.  Follow me."

 

He led her to a small command area they had set up.  Schematics of Voyager were everywhere.  He showed her a sensor display.

 

"Voyager is in bad shape.  We can't use transporters, that warp core left a good sized radiation field.  Some decks have lost environmental controls.  Decks five through seven have collapsed in some areas.  Engineering no longer exists, but luckily it looks like it was sealed off before the explosion.  Sensors are having a hell of a time out there, although inside tricorders seem to be working to a limited capacity.

 

"Some areas have breathable air, some don't.  We're trying to clear it out deck by deck, and shut off oxygen where it’s not needed.  There are fires here, here, and here," he said, pointing to the glowing red areas on the map.  "There are 32 people on board, and so far we've found none.  I won't lie to you, this is a bad one.  Are you sure you want to do this?"

 

"Yes."

 

"Okay.  Report to the launch bay, they'll gear you up there. Good luck."

 

***

 

The darkness that surrounded Janeway was complete, so much so she doubted her sight had survived the explosion. She gripped onto the metal beam next to her, cold and hard beneath her.  They were in a death grip, sliding into oblivion together. The captain always goes down...

 

She tried moving her trapped arm but could barely wiggle her fingers, and when she did she heard a clink of metal on metal.  The wedding band.

 

"Seven," she whispered.

 

***

 

Seven twisted her wedding band on her finger as she sat in the tiny runabout that was taking her towards the ruined hulk of Voyager.  It was vacant except for herself and the pilot. The ship felt empty and cavernous.  Everything was white, the ship interior, the suit she was wearing, a space environmental suit like she had worn when she had gone aboard Ares Four, the preserved ancient earth Mars ship they had found in the Delta quadrant.

 

She continued to twist the ring distractedly until the pilot alerted her that they were near the docking area that had been cut earlier into Voyager's hull. She stopped her fidgeting and slipped on her gloves.  He came back to help her secure her helmet and secured it into place.

 

"What's that for?" she asked as he prepared what looked like a harness.

 

"I've got to lower you down.  The decks have collapsed in this area, unless you want to drop fifty feet down."

 

She got into the harness as he secured the floor hatch to the hull, and cranked open a door that opened up at the bottom of the runabout. Seven looked through the round hatch and saw pitch blackness.

 

"If you get into trouble, we aren't going to be able to beam you out, you know."

 

"I know."

 

"Are you sure you want to do this?"

 

"Yes."

 

"You ready?"

 

She nodded, and lowered herself down through the opening.  The harness caught her weight and she was lowered into the black canyon, her wrist lamp making her a single point of light in the darkness.  She looked around, shining her light and trying to see some landmark she recognized. The pilot lowered her carefully, trying his best to scan the dark environment.  The readings he was getting were unpredictable, and as he watched the inertial dampeners let a piece of bulkhead go flying with such force it cut through Seven's line like butter.

 

"Lieutenant!" he screamed as Seven fell into the darkness.

 

***

Seven and Janeway had the exact same thought at the exact same time. I'm going to die here.

 

***

 

Seven felt the line give way, sending her falling blindly.  There was nothing to grab, nothing to hold onto.  She waited for impact but felt herself begin to slow down. She had reached a part of the ship where artificial gravity was not working.  Her descent slowed, she resembled a diver hitting the water.  When she hit she landed perfectly on her feet. Well, not dead yet, she thought to herself.  She reached for her tricorder, but found it missing.  It must have been lost during the fall.  She scanned around for it briefly but decided to move on.

 

The first deck she entered had no environmental controls and she had to activate her gravity boots to make it through.  She had been given a rough map of the area that still had environmental controls and oxygen pockets.  She switched on her communicator to see if the comm channels had been reestablished but only heard static and an occasional voice would break through.  She turned it off and continued on her way.

***

           

She really didn't want to die here, but she had made a deal.  Kathryn moved her finger again and heard the clink of the ring.

 

Seven.

 

Boy was she gonna be mad, probably would chew out her corpse at the funeral.  The thought made her smile.  Secretly, part of her loved to watch Seven get flustered, it was just so damn adorable. Seven had sacrificed so much for her, if she died today, it would be so unfair to her.  But she had made a deal, and she was the captain.  She tightened her grip on the metal next to her.

 

***

 

Trekking through the decks in gravity boots was tiring and slow.  Seven stopped to rest for a moment. All she could hear was her breathing and it relaxed her, until an abrupt voice interrupted her.

 

"Riley to Seven of Nine, respond."

 

"This is Seven, go ahead."

 

"Thank goodness you're alright.  Comm is up, some what.  The contamination field is starting to dissipate.  We should have sensors and hopefully transporters shortly.  I think I've got your location, are you heading to the deck below?  It has environmental controls?"

 

"Yes, Commander."

 

"Alright.  Good luck."

 

Out of the corner of her eye she saw a communicator floating in the air and it made her shiver.

 

***

Janeway was getting weak, and the force holding her down was making it harder to breathe. She didn't want this, she didn't...

She let go of the metal and reached up.

 

***

 

Seven used some undamaged Jeffries tubes to get deck to deck.  Debris was heaped everywhere, and she had to climb and crawl over it to get anywhere. She stopped to get her breath and survey the area around her.  The torment seemed endless.  She had been using her Borg implant to scan for heat and life signs and it seemed to wear her out faster.

 

As she sat there she started to imagine the worst, that the crew had been near engineering and been sucked into space after the explosion.  She didn't know what to do, where to look.  She felt helpless.  She realized suddenly that she was sitting in the ruins of Cargo Bay 2 and a terrible ache hit her that forced her to close her eyes.

 

No, she had to keep looking.  With a sigh she opened her eyes and looked up.  A drop of blood splashed onto her face plate and she almost gasped.  She narrowed her gaze and trained her light on the roof above her.  A spike had been driven through the decking, and blood was dripping from it.

 

Scrambling to her feet she tore into the Jeffries tube.  Flying up the ladder she got to the upper deck and scanned the wreckage. At the same moment Janeway was reaching up blindly.  Her fingertips jolted a delicately balanced piece of deck plating and it toppled over with a crash. Seven hurried over to the sound, pushing the wreckage out of her way.  She leaned over a fallen beam and wound up staring directly into the face of her captain.

 

"Kathryn!" she beamed.

 

"Seven!  Oh God, I must be dead."

 

"No, not dead,"

 

"Are you sure?"

 

"Positive." She grabbed some debris and tossed it aside, leaving only the heavy beam that pinned Kathryn's left side to the floor.  She worked around it slowly, examining it as best she could.

 

The beam had two rods attached to it, which had effectively impaled Janeway to the floor.  The one through the shoulder looked workable, but the second one was closer to the heart, and had probably punctured the lung.

 

"What are you doing here, my knight in shining armor?"  Kathryn smiled.

 Seven looked done at her suit.  She was armored, sort of, but it really wasn't shining.  She scanned Kathryn's hairline and found what she had suspected, a head injury.

 

"I came as soon as I heard."

 

"It's dangerous here, honey," Kathryn whispered.

 

"I know," Seven said.  Kathryn seemed delirious, she had lost too much blood.  Seven had brought a first aid pack and searched through it for something to use as a tourniquet.

 

"How are you feeling?"

 

"Tired...and cold."

 

She found what she wanted, a rubber strap.  She lifted Kathryn's head delicately and fitted it the best she could under her and around her upper chest.  She then got out a thermal blanket, tucking it around her.

 

"The crew?" Janeway asked.

 

"I don't know anything yet.  Communications and scanners are ineffective."  She glanced around. "How's the air?"

 

"No, Seven, leave that on, we could loose life support."

 

Seven ignored her and removed her helmet, setting it aside, and then began to remove the upper portion of her hard suit.

 

"What are you doing?"

 

"Seven of Nine to Riley.  Seven of Nine to Riley, please respond."

 

A choppy reply came through.

 

"I've located the Captain."

 

"Stand....by. No...transporters."

 

"Understood.  Seven out."  She went back into the medical bag and produced an oxygen mask and secured it over Kathryn's nose and mouth.

 

"Dammit Seven, put that helmet back on," she mumbled.

 

Seven ignored her.  Janeway's temperature was dropping rapidly and she had to move fast.  She activated the thermal blanket and then lied down next to Janeway, wrapping her arms around her. Janeway did her best to put her good arm around Seven and closed her eyes.

 

"I'm...relieved I found you," Seven said quietly.

 

"So am I, darlin'. So am I.  It's not a bad way to spend eternity,"

 

"You're not dead, Kathryn."

 

"I'm not?"

 

"Again, no."

 

"I'm supposed to go down with the ship."

 

"Not today."

 

"Riley to Seven of Nine, we have communications back."

 

"We need to move the Captain immediately, she's been impaled to the deck.  She needs to be transported with the impaling object intact."

 

"We may have to move her physically.  Stand by at your currently location."

 

That was the first time Kathryn realized what sort of danger she was in and she had an abrupt moment of clarity as she watched Seven.

 

"I think...my head, Seven. I think I hit it."

 

"I know."

 

Her vision blurred and time jumped suddenly.  There was a white light above her and someone was removing the oxygen mask Seven had attached to her.  She blinked her eyes and tried to focus.  Seven was standing off to her right, completely covered in blood.  Janeway gasped at the sight, but couldn't sit up.  Something had happened but darkness swallowed her and she was gone again.

 

The next few hours Kathryn slipped in and out of consciousness.  When she did wake briefly Tuvok was standing by her bed. He said something about Seven going back in to assist with the rescue operation.

 

"Seven was here?  I thought it was a dream."

 

"She's here Captain, she's on Voyager right now."

 

"She'll get them, I know she will."

 

This time when she slept she dreamt of beautiful fields and a smiling platinum blonde knight riding to her rescue. In her dream Seven rode a superb white horse and was dressed in shining armor.  She seemed to be riding towards her, her hand resting lightly on the hilt of her sword. When she approached Kathryn opened her eyes, blinking to focus on the figure that stood at the end of her bed.  The room was dark except for the light streaming in from the doorway.

 

It was Seven, still in armor, or rather the environmental suit, holding her helmet at her side.  She looked a little tired but a sight for sore eyes none the less.

 

"My knight," Kathryn smiled.

 

Seven gave a small nod of her head, like a good knight should.

 

"All crew members of Voyager are present and accounted for, Captain, and with the exception of yourself, all injuries were minor."

 

She sighed, feeling the weight lift from her.

 

"You are aboard the medical ship the U.S.S. Nightingale.  Your prognosis is favorable."

 

"And you?  I saw you, there was blood."

 

"That was your blood, Kathryn."

 

"Oh."

 

Seven set her helmet aside and approached the bed.  Without a word she leaned over and kissed her delicately, dropping the lightest of kisses on her lips.  As she leaned over the weight of the pendant she wore around her neck caused it to slip from under her suit and dangle before Kathryn's eyes.

 

"I guess you like it,"  Kathryn commented.

 

"I love it."  She straightened and took a breath.  "There's something myself and the crew would like to inform you of, it will only take a moment."

 

"What?"

 

Seven slipped out the door and ushered all thirty two people into the dark room.  She cleared her throat and on the cue they all began to sing a very quiet rendition of happy birthday. Janeway couldn't clap at the end but she could smile.  It was the best birthday ever. That night Seven stayed with her, sitting in a chair next to her bed, holding her hand.  Little was said, and the wonderful thing was, it didn't have to be.  She fell into an easy sleep and didn't wake again until she felt the sensation of whiskers tickling her face.  She opened her eyes to see Seven's gray kitten, who in turn meowed loudly in her face.

 

"Oh, you've got to be kidding me.  How did you get here?"

 

"Seven arranged it.  I think you're his person," a male voice said with a deep Southern accent.

 

She found the controls of her bed and moved it so she was in a sitting position.  The kitten made himself comfortable by kneading the blankets at her waist. A man stood by her bed, he had thinning blonde hair and a moustache.  He pulled up a chair and sat down.

 

"Hi, I'm your doctor, my name's Ron Wright."

 

"Do you usually let animals run around your hospital, Doctor?"

 

"Sometimes, if it helps to relax our patients.  He's becoming quite the celebrity around here today, I think he's visited every patient we have."  He gave the cat a quick scratch behind the ears.  "Now, let's talk about you.  I've got good news and bad news.  Good news, you're all in one piece, bad news: one piece has to be replaced.  It's a simple surgery really, I want to replace your left shoulder blade.  That pole punched a good hole in it and it caused a lot of fracturing.  We used a bone knitter but I'm concerned about weaknesses showing up later, the damage to it was too extensive for the knitter to put back together to its original state, its still very weakened.  Other than that, we got your lung repaired and patched up the holes.  Seven went to your quarters to get some rest, I'm sure she'll be back soon to check up on our efficiency levels."

 

"Has she been a bother?"

 

"She's just a little over protective, no bother. You up for some visitors, Captain?"

 

"Sure."

 

"Torres and Kim are here, I'll show them in."

 

She perked up a little and ran her fingers through her hair.  Her left arm was immobilized in a sling and felt like dead weight at her side. B'Elanna strode in with Harry Kim at her heels.  She gave Janeway a bright smile.

 

"Captain!  How ya felling?"

 

"Better.  What brings you out this way?"

 

"Starfleet assigned us to investigate the accident.  Seven years I slave away at that coil and you blow it in a matter of seconds."

 

"Any ideas what happened?"

 

"Not yet, but I have a pretty good idea.  She was on her last leg, it was just a matter of time."

 

"Seven said you got stapled to the deck," Harry commented, "Her words, not mine."

 

Kathryn chuckled, "That's a good description of it.  I guess I'm in good shape, although they want to do another surgery to replace my shoulder blade, my arm feels like its dead."

 

"Speaking of Seven, where is the hero of the hour?  Rumors are already flying that Starfleet is going to give her a medal."

 

Kathryn blinked and braced herself.  "What...are you talking about?"

 

"She didn't tell you?  That little sneak.  Well, most of the crew had high tailed it into the escape pods when the core went critical, but once they were in them the power to launch them went offline so they were stuck in there.  Initially, it wasn't that bad, it kept them out of harms way with plenty of air, but then the fire swept into that area.  There were still no transporters and the fire was out of control.  The pods had to be launched by"

 

"The manual release controls," Janeway said.

 

"Yea, so Seven went into the fire and launched all the pods before they burnt up. They were just little pockets of O2, if the fire had hit them...boom."

 

"She didn't tell me."

 

"Well, you've been a little out of it Captain, she probably didn't want to worry you.  It's all in a days work for super woman."  B'Elanna said, giving her leg a comforting pat.  "We just wanted to come see how you were doing, the doctor doesn't want us to stay long.  Everything's under control, we're handling everything, just rest and get better, okay?" She nodded and watched them go.   The kitten curled up next to her and soon she was asleep.

 

When she woke Seven was sitting silently at her bedside, her hands folded in her lap. Kathryn watched her for a moment before speaking.

 

"Harry and B'Elanna were here, they told me what happened.  Seven, what you did was insanely dangerous, do you realize that?  Fire and starships is something you do not approach lightly."

 

"You would have done the same thing."

 

"Probably, but I'm the Captain, my crew is my responsibility."

 

"But you were incapacitated, so that responsibility fell to me."

 

"How do you figure?"

 

"I'm your spouse and partner.  In a partnership one person assists or takes over when the other isn't able to.  You were not able to assist your crew, so it became my duty to do so."

 

Janeway reeled.  None of her previous love interests would have crawled into a fire to save her crew, hell, Mark didn't even like starships.  Her position as a Star Fleet Captain held little personal significance with him.  It was always something to be overcome come, in spite of...  With Seven everything just was, and was accepted. You better hold onto her tight, a little voice told her. "I feel sorry for whomever was in charge of the rescue efforts.  You must have been hard headed and obstinate as usual."

 

"Commander Riley adapted."

 

"I'm sure he did.  Come over here."

 

Seven raised her eyebrow.

 

"Don't give me that look, come here."

 

Seven's blue eyes sparkled and she leaned close, allowing the redhead a gentle kiss.

 

"Let's get out of here," Janeway purred.

 

"You have to rest."

 

"I'm fine,"  she said, leaning up from the bed.

 

"No, you're not."

 

"Then make me feel better."

 

"Kathryn!"

 

"What?  I've ignored doctor's orders plenty of times."

 

"Do not force me to tie you to that bed."

 

"Would you?"  Kathryn asked, her eyes darkening.

 

The change caught Seven by surprise and she felt her pulse begin to race as her face flushed.  The thought intrigued her and her mind reeled with possibilities.  Tie her up?  The look in Kathryn's eyes made her realize she may appear to be joking  but there was a very serious edge to her request. Seven thought her heart would hammer itself out of her chest, she couldn't recall ever feeling so aroused. Kathryn watched her curiously, and tilted her head.

 

"Well, would you?"

 

Something like a snarl flickered across Seven's lips and it made Kathryn gasp.

 

"If it suited me."  She leaned down and kissed her hard before turning on her heel to take a very long walk, maybe a shower. Kathryn's surgery went off without a hitch, although the doctor said she would have to keep her arm in a sling for another few days.  She wasn't sure why, his explanation was an analogy of a new baseball mitt needing to be worked in, or something to that effect.

 

She was given the go ahead to leave sickbay and recuperate in the quarters that had been assigned to herself and Seven.  The ship was a galaxy class starship and the guest stateroom was an enormous suite.  The kitten was there, bathing himself contentedly, the window above him giving her a devastating view of Voyager. A startled gasp slipped out and she felt the breath leave her.  She stepped closer to the window and stared for a long time. She didn't turn around when the door opened, her body tingled with an instinctive knowledge of who it was.

 

"Kathryn?"

 

"There's no fixing this," she said, her voice thick with emotion.

 

"No, there isn't."  Seven stood silently.  She knew Kathryn was upset and she had to let her have her space to gather herself.

 

"God Seven, it's amazing no one died."

 

"We were fortunate."

 

"We were just lucky to have you here as usual."

 

"There was no way in hell I was going to lose you, not now."

 

Janeway was startled by Seven's uncharacteristic language and turned to look at her. Seven's face was flushed and her breath was coming faster than usual.  She was wearing her Starfleet usual.  She was wearing her Starfleet uniform, which was still a delightful surprise to Kathryn. Kathryn realized how truly close to death she had come. She glanced back out the window at the remains of Voyager.

 

"I guess it's over now isn't it?  Voyager and...everything."

 

"I'm not sure what you mean."

 

"I don't think I do either."

 

"I..."  Seven was interrupted by the sound of a hail.

 

"Tuvok to Janeway.  Admiral Paris has arrived and wishes to speak to you."

 

"On my way."  She sighed and ended the hail.  "Another inquest I'm sure."  She turned and headed towards the door, taking a moment to pause next to Seven.

 

"Can you meet me back here later?  I know you're a busy woman but-"

 

"I'll be here."

 

"Good,"  Janeway said, flashing her a smile.

 

Tuvok and herself met with the Admiral.  She wasn't sure why Tuvok was there, after all, he wasn't on Voyager when the accident occurred but he had obviously collected quite a bit of information on the subject.

 

"Well, it looks like the refit is officially canceled," the admiral said after a long few hours of discussing the incident.  "Can you handle another ship that may not be named Voyager, Kathryn?"

 

"Yes sir."

 

"You'll be hearing from us shortly.   In the meantime report back to Earth and I'll speak to you at the medal ceremony."

 

"Medal ceremony?"

 

"Yes, your wife will be receiving the Silver Cross.  She did tell you didn't she?"

 

"Oh...um yes, of course."  She covered quickly.  She couldn't let the Admiral think the marriage was anything less than legitimate.  The sheer bizarreness of the situation hit her head on and almost made her reel.  Married but not...one year contract... Her heart began to pound in fear.  When the contract expired what then, what should she do?

 

"Are you alright Captain?" he asked.

 

"Oh yes, just thinking."

 

"Maybe you should go back to your quarters and rest.  Commander Tuvok."

 

He looked up from the computer terminal he had been working on briefly.

 

"Could you escort the Captain back to her quarters, she's a little tired."

 

He nodded and they left the briefing room together.  They were silent for a long time before Kathryn finally spoke up.

 

"Thank you."

 

"For what Captain?"

 

"For taking care of Seven when the accident happened.  I'm glad you were there for the both of us."

 

"Seven requires specialized handling, as you yourself know.  I thought it best that I be the one who informed her of the accident."

 

She could've sworn her had just made a joke, but she let it go.  Special handling; she liked that.

 

"Well, thanks all the same."

 

"I received a brief message from her while we were talking to Admiral Paris, she asked that I inform you that she will be waiting for you in your quarters wearing the necklace you gave her."

 

"Oh, alright.  I think I'll be alright to walk the rest of the way.  I'll see you later."

 

"Goodnight Captain."

 

"Goodnight."

 

When she got to her quarters she saw what Seven had meant.  She was lying on the couch, looking out at the stars, wearing nothing except the silver chain around her neck. Kathryn gulped.  It was secretly how she had always envisioned Seven wearing the necklace; naked, the silver and blue matching her implants, her hair undone and flowing around her shoulders as it was now.  Although she couldn't see her eyes because she  was turned away from her, looking out the window, she knew the sapphire matched them perfectly.

 

"Seven," she whispered.

 

She turned her gaze towards her, noticing how Kathryn shifted her wounded shoulder uncomfortably, straining against the sling it was in.

 

"You look...stunning.  You know, part of me bought that necklace with the hope that I'd get to see you wear it with nothing else."

 

"I think I know what 'part' that is."

 

"Is it that obvious?" Kathryn smirked.  She approached the couch and knelt down before Seven. Seven reached up and cupped her cheek.

 

"I've missed you."

 

It struck Kathryn that this was the first time they had truly been alone together since she had left to oversee the refit.  Sure, there had been those brief moments in the hospital but that wasn't really a private place.  She relaxed and let that pert of her open which had begun to become exclusively Seven's, the private part that was beyond captain and any other label, a part she didn't even know she had until recently. She covered Seven's hand with her own and turned to kiss her palm.

 

"I've missed you too, I want..." she stopped and sighed, "My shoulder..."

 

"We'll adapt."

 

"Yes, we will."

 

***

 

Hours later Kathryn lied in bed, enjoying a rather pleasant afterglow.  Seven had replicated some white cotton gauze and had wrapped her arm close to her chest, so it was still in the position it was in when it was in the sling but secured so it couldn't get moved around.  Seven had been rather pleased with her solution, it made it easier for Kathryn to move around and the white gauze gave her an ethereal look. Seven snuggled close to her since Kathryn could do little but lie on her back.  She tossed her leg over the smaller woman's thigh and pulled her close. Janeway found it particularly endearing that Seven was being so affectionate and could barely finish a sentence without stopping to kiss her at least once.

 

"I received a message from my mother, I had to beg her not to come all the way out here."

 

"I'm sure she was concerned."

 

"She was, I don't think she likes the fact that I went back to work so quickly.  In fact, she asked if you and I could house sit for her while she goes out of town for a few days."

 

"House sit?"

 

"It's just her way to try to force us to take some more time off."

 

"I think we should,"

 

"Are you serious?"

 

"It would give you a chance to take me to Indiana, a promise you have yet to fulfill."

 

She gave her a slow kiss, "I guess your right.  The Admiral told me about the Silver Cross.  When were you planning on telling me?"

 

"I hadn't given it much thought.  Medals are irrelevant."

 

"It depends, this captain rewards very well for medals."

 

"Then let's hope no other crew member is similarly honored."

 

"You're very attractive when you have that little spark of jealousy running through you."

 

Seven leaned up and looked at her.  "I do not get jealous."

 

"Oh that's..." She started laughing and Seven watched unamused.

 

"Explain your levity, Kathryn Janeway."

 

"You don't get jealous?  You could barely stand to be in the same room with Chakotay the whole time we were in the Delta Quadrant.  You didn't think I was really interested in him, did you?"

 

"No, I...Are you suggesting that I was in love with you during our time in the Delta Quadrant?"

 

"Well, weren't you?  I know I was.  What other Captain in the fleet spends so much time in Astrometrics?"

 

A myriad of emotions crossed Seven's features before she settled on one.

 

"Why didn't you say anything sooner?"

 

"Because you were captain and...You could've approached me."

 

"I didn't know if I could."

 

Seven lied back down and turned away.

 

"Don't be upset, we both were caught in our roles at the time."

 

"Have you really loved me that long?" she asked quietly

 

"Yes.  Now that I look back on it it was fairly obvious.  I was practically a mad woman when your cortical node began failing."

 

"You're behavior was erratic."

 

Kathryn wrapped her one good arm around Seven's waist and placed a kiss on her neck.

 

"Maybe we do need that time in Indiana."

 

"It would be pleasant.  What would we do in Indiana?"

 

Kathryn was stumped.  Good question.  What was there to do in Indiana?

***********

 

"Indoor sports?"  Kathryn suggested as she turned to look at Seven, who sat on the swing that was on her mother's back porch.  She had been feeding her mother's rambunctious group of dogs in the back yard.  Her arm was out of the sling now and it felt good to be active. Seven watched her from the porch, swinging lazily in the afternoon sun.

 

"I have unleashed a particularly dirty mind," she commented.

 

"You're the one who's jumping to conclusions," she said, tossing a ball for one of the dogs.  "I'm planning to cook you dinner if you must know, I owe you one."

 

"A romantic evening in?"

 

"That's the idea."  She dusted her hands off and climbed up the steps of the porch.

 

"Do you need help cooking?"

 

"I'll manage, you just relax."

 

"The results would be better if I did not assist."  She commented. 

 

Kathryn went into the house and came back a while later with a steaming cup of tea and a blanket over her arm.

 

"What's this?"

 

"Something to help you relax.  Here, put this blanket over yourself," she said, handing it to her, "And drink this.  I'll call you when dinner is ready."  She leaned down and kissed her quickly on the cheek before going back inside.

 

One of the dogs had finished his dinner and rather than go off with the rest of the dogs decided the solitary blonde on the porch swing needed his company. He made his approach stealthily, coming onto the porch and staying on the edge, looking casually into the distance.  Every now and then he looked back to give her his best doggie smile, complete with lolling tongue.  After reassuring her of his friendly intentions he moved a little closer to the swing. It was a long process but eventually he was right next to the swing. Seven patted him gently on the head then was struck by an odor. When Janeway came back out Seven had the most peculiar look on her face.

 

"I know, he's a smelly old thing."

 

"It is a fortunate thing we have a feline," she said.

 

"Not all dogs are like him, I mean we could wash our dog..."  She knew there was no arguing, Seven had obviously come to her conclusion.  Boy was she whipped. Kathryn had made chicken and rice, something simple she could be sure not to screw up.  Seven seemed to genuinely enjoy the dinner and frequently tossed looks in her direction that were full of gentle warmth.  Kathryn shifted a bit in her chair when Seven's eyes would reach hers.  God, she was aroused.  It almost frightened her that Seven had this ability to push her into an extreme arousal with just a glance.  She took a long swallow of water and tried to calm herself.  Well, what was wrong with a good drenching after a long draught? she thought to herself.

 

She had planned to teach Seven how to dance that evening.  She like to dance and now that they were living in San Francisco she thought it would be nice to be able to go out some evenings and work some stress out by hitting the dance floor.  When they finished dinner she proceeded with her plan but was surprised to discover that Seven already knew how to dance, and quite well in fact, as long as Kathryn let her lead.

 

"The Doctor's influence I take it?"

 

"You are correct as usual."  Seven had her pulled tight and the close contact was serving to further distract her, which was exactly what Seven had in mind.  She could tell Kathryn was restraining herself so she leaned in and gave her ear a quick nibble.

 

"That's it; I have you get you upstairs, but the idea of being intimate in my mother's house..."

 

"Kathryn, these irrational fears are not helping you get any closer to your climax."

 

"Since you put it that way..." she grabbed her hand and led her to the guest bedroom they were sharing.  When they got into the room Kathryn quickly closed the door, which Seven observed with some amusement.  Kathryn had an excited jittery air about her, as if she was doing something particularly naughty.  She was standing across the room like a shy teenager waiting for her date to make a move. Seven did.  She strode towards her purposefully and kissed her roughly.  It was too light in the room and she pulled away from Kathryn to order the lights off.

 

"What are you doing?"

 

"I would prefer a more subdued lighting."  A match flared to life in the darkness and a gentle glow grew from the flame as she lit a candle that was sitting on a nearby small desk.  She turned her attention back to Janeway and abruptly and with out warning shoved her down on the bed.  Before Janeway could protest she crawled onto the bed after her and grasped her captain's shirt, ripping it open and sending buttons scattering across the room. Janeway gasped and Seven leaned down to bite and suck at her neck.

 

"Oh Seven."

 

"Do you enjoy that?  Do you need me to tell you what to do?"  She leaned up and sat on her haunches, appraising her coolly.  "Take off your pants, and your underwear."

 

Kathryn gulped and quickly did as she was told.  She pushed her pants down and she wiggled out of them tossed them across the room.

 

"Now lay back down.  They say these things should be discussed but since the request was made I am merely granting it."  She reached to the side of the bed and before Kathryn knew what was happening her right arm was tied down comfortably at her side, not pulled up and tied to the headboard but tied with a long strap of leather to the bed frame.  Her breathing came quickly and she waited in anticipation as her other hand was tied in a similar fashion.  When she was done she knelt between her legs, which she spread apart to create room for her to sit.  She ran her fingernails down Kathryn's stomach and watched her writhe in response.  She touch a few reflex points and watched Janeway try to jerk her arms up to no avail, they stayed tied securely at her side. Then she leaned down and sucked hard on her breast, almost bruising it with her intensity.  Kathryn arched up and Seven pushed her back down, keeping her pinned against the mattress with her Borg enhanced left hand.

 

All of her senses seemed hyper aware at that moment, even Seven's clothed form against her seemed harsh and arousing, at that moment she could have easily rubbed herself to climax on Seven's pant leg but the woman was doing her best not to touch her unnecessarily, holding herself away from her.

 

She released the one breast with a slight suckling sound and moved to the other one, using her teeth to pull and tease the nipple.  Kathryn tried pushing her pelvis forward again and Seven steadfastly pushed her down.

 

"You'll come when I allow it."

 

A wave of wetness flooded her opening and she moaned, dreaming of Seven's fingers on her, in her.  The suckling at her breast was starting to become an unbearable torment and it was all she could do not to beg. Seven teased her relentlessly and then suddenly untied the straps from the bed frame.

 

"Wha-what are you doing?" Kathryn asked sitting up.

 

Seven tied the straps together, and then turned her around.  "On your knees."

 

Janeway complied immediately as Seven hooked her bonds around the bed post which she gripped onto.

 

"Is this what you wanted?"  she asked, slipping two fingers deep inside her, which Kathryn thrusted back towards with an animalistic grunt.

 

"I thought so.  Don't worry; I'll take care of you." She smirked a little to herself as she began to fuck Kathryn rather thoroughly, appreciating the view as she began to shake, her muscles tensing as an orgasm overtook her. Seven untied her and pulled her down into the bed with her.  Kathryn snuggled close to her and sighed.

 

"Thank you," she breathed, running her hands under Seven's shirts and slowly pulling it off her.

 

"It's my pleasure, as always."

 

***

 

A few days later Kathryn's sister Phoebe came to visit them at the house.  Seven was a little nervous, stalling for time as she got dressed in the upstairs guest bedroom.  Making new acquaintances were always an uncomfortable task for her, eventually when that person was Kathryn's sister, whom she had only met a handful of times before.  She pulled open the window a little to get some fresh air and could clearly hear Kathryn and Phoebe talking on the porch.

 

"It's not like that Phoebe?"

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"I mean, we're not really married, it's a cover, and that's all."

 

Seven closed the window and swallowed the lump in her throat.

 

Part 4