Compromises
 

Chief Engineer B'Elanna Torres spent one more night in the captain's quarters, feeling as though she really should, and wanting to do so, even though Kathryn seemed to be moving along rather well. She was maybe a little more within herself than she usually was, but that was to be expected, and Torres admitted that even though she felt like she knew her lover fairly well, there were still parts to her, especially how she dealt with stress and bad situations, privately, that the Klingon had never experienced. All she knew was the captain in that respect. And Janeway, when feeling depressed or exhausted tended to only let it show through her lack of patience for smaller details that normally she let slip by without pause for contemplation, or she became overly pleasant, or worse, she turned into a distant and aloof workaholic robot.

Currently, Torres wasn't certain what was concerning her so much, but she figured that it had something to do with the fact that when she and Seven of Nine returned to the captain's quarters, two hours after their duty shifts, working late on modifying Seven's alcove, which they were pleased to report was ready to be tested the next day, they found their 'unbreakable' lover dressed in her full uniform, boots included, with damp hair after yet again, another shower or bath, curled up on the couch asleep, with all of the lights in her quarters on at full, and the temperature kicked up fairly high.

Before Torres could make a comment, Seven sighed and stated in a quiet and sorrowful voice, "This is unusual, B'Elanna Torres. Kathryn rarely regenerates with her shoes and tunic on." Then looking at the captain's face from a distance, Seven continued, "She is unsettled. Should we wake her?"

"Let her sleep," B'Elanna whispered back with a certain amount of regret. Patting Seven's arm, she said, "Come on, kiddo…let's go have dinner in the Mess Hall…maybe she'll be awake when we get back? Then maybe we can talk her into coming down to the gym to workout with us for a while?"

"Very well," the tall blonde nodded, exiting the cabin, equally regretful.

As they walked through the hall, Seven looked down at Torres and asked, "B'Elanna Torres, would you be agreeable if I were to hold your hand?"

Torres smirked and blushed a little shyly, then grabbed Seven's hand and responded, "I think I can handle that." Once they got into the turbolift, the Klingon laughed and said, "Besides…the whole ship's gossiping about me and the captain…why not give them something to really chew on?"

"There are also rumors about Kathryn and Lieutenant Fowler," Seven reminded, unhappily, her uneasiness toward the tall green-eyed women clear in her intonation.

Squeezing Seven's hand, Torres asked, "You don't believe those…do you?"

"No," the Borg answered surely, certain Kathryn would never behave in such a manner. "I find it curious, however, that this Collective consistently engage in irrelevant conversation about the captain, and believe the words spoken by a defective individual. I believe the only member of her senior staff that she has not been thought to be involved with at one time has been Ensign Kim."

Torres laughed as they exited the turbolift and said quietly before they encountered anyone, "Poor Harry…he just can't ever seem to get over his nice guy reputation. And as far as Red goes…well, she's the captain…it makes for interesting conversation. Most people that talk about it, really don't believe it. The only rumor that I think anyone ever believed was the one with her and Chakotay. I even believed that one…until he set me straight."

As they approached the Mess Hall, still hand in hand, Seven asked, "Then you do not think that this crew believes that I love Kathryn…or that you love her?"

"I'm not counting those because they're true," Torres explained, smiling happily as two officers passed them, gawking at the sight unabashed. Part of her wanted to snarl and bite their heads off, just to keep them on their toes, but the other part, the one she went along with at the moment, just continued to smile and give the look of 'look at what I got.' "Besides, I don't think anyone thinks that I love her…I think they think that I'm just…servicing her." Squeezing Seven's hand again as they entered the Mess Hall, she whispered, quickly, "I think everyone believes that you love her, though…and that she loves you too."

As Seven of Nine and B'Elanna Torres entered the Mess Hall hand in hand, Neelix, who was holding a plate of vegetables, stumbled forward a little and practically dropped the dish, completely bewildered, since he was under the impression Janeway and Seven had finally decided to get over themselves and admit their clear love for the other. Then clearing his throat, he looked down at the floor behind him as if he had tripped on something and said, nervous, "Well…ladies…it's…it's so nice to see you two here. Seven…what brings you?"

"I require a nutritional supplement as this time, as does B'Elanna Torres," Seven stated easily. "Since I wish to consume my beverage in her presence, I have accompanied her to this venue. Mister Neelix, are you malfunctioning?"

Fidgeting with his hat and then his apron, Neelix answered, "Malfu…no…no…I just tripped on something…no harm done." Grabbing the knife on the counter and starting to chop the various veggies he brought out form the back, he asked, "So, B'Elanna…what can I get for you today? We've got beef stew, leola root casserole with spinach and tomatoes…and some garlic bread that just came out of the oven."

Staying far away from the leola root since she thought that no matter what Neelix mixed it with, it was horrible, Torres answered, "Gimme some stew and bread…please."

"Seven…you?" asked the stout Talaxian.

Placing her hands behind her back since Torres had let go of her palm and was now resting her elbows on the counter, Seven answered, "I am required to consume liquid nutritional supplements at this time."

Scrunching his face, Neelix said turning around and dishing up Torres' dinner, "Still? Hmm…well, I guess the Doctor knows what's best for you. Don't you get tired of those, though?"

"Since that is what I am required to consume," the cool blonde answered, "it is irrelevant."

"If you say so," Neelix huffed, handing a tray of food to the Klingon. "But when you get tired of them…you just let me know and I'll fix you up."

"I will inform you if I require your services," Seven answered. Before she left, her eidetic memory reminding her that she had something to inform Neelix of, Seven of Nine raised the eyebrow that was attractively covered with the ocular implant that framed that side of her face rather well, and stated, "Mister Neelix, with regards to the statement you made, stating that anytime something new occurs that it is a special occasion, I wish to inform you that I have pondered your statement and believe that even though the premise is overly simplistic, you are correct." Then nodding and following Torres to an empty table without another word to the man, she asked when the brunette sat down, still standing, "Do you require liquid refreshment?"

"I'll have some milk," answered Torres. When Seven returned with three glasses, one water, one supplement, and one milk, the smaller woman said, "Thanks, babe."

"You are welcome, 'babe,'" Seven responded, smirking, which caused the Klingon to laugh. Raising her glass to her lips, Seven said after taking a sip, "B'Elanna Torres…there are several individuals in this room that are speaking of us at this moment."

"Oh, I'm sure," answered Torres, almost giddy with impish excitement, since she was not-so-secretly fond of making a scene. Then smiling wickedly, she whispered, "Dollface, would you be agreeable if I leaned over and kissed you…just to see them choke on their food?"

"I am agreeable," Seven smirked.

Pushing herself up, Torres leaned over, kissed Seven sweetly and said, clearly, "You're too cute for color TV."

As several people coughed, and the entire room turned around and began whispering rather loudly, Seven said, not really understanding her girlfriend's words, but understanding that they were a compliment, "Thank you."

When Nicole Fowler entered the Mess Hall and the whispering grew to a quiet roar, Seven stated, "Now they are waiting to see if you and Lieutenant Fowler are going to exchange vulgarities over Kathryn's affections."

Looking over her shoulder, Torres smiled and asked, "Do you mind if she joins us?"

Seven looked at Torres, then over at Fowler and finally answered, "I am not disagreeable, since you are her friend." Sighing, she finished, "I will adapt."

"Thanks, babe," Torres winked, then whistled over her shoulder, "Hey Fowler!" When the buzzing stopped and everyone turned to watch, Torres stood up, crossed her arms over her chest as if she was angry, but not overly obvious and said, punching her arm lightly, once she approached her, "You wanna come sit with us or what?"

Grabbing her tray, Nicole Fowler remarked, "Smooth, Torres…are you sure Seven doesn't mind?"

"It's cool," Torres responded. "Besides…if you don't sit with us…everyone will think that I'm ten seconds away from ripping your arms off."

As Fowler walked back with the smaller Klingon, Nicole amended, "You mean…you're ten seconds away from trying to rip my arms off."

"Cocky…I like it," Torres spat back, moving her tray to Seven's side and sliding into the double seat, letting the pilot have plenty of room for herself, and also so she could keep and eye on the Borg who still hadn't made up her mind about the pilot. "So, have a good day off?"

Digging into her stew, staying away from the leola root as well, Fowler nodded and said, "Yea…I slept in way too late though. Still having trouble getting used to being a morning person…I've always been a night owl."

"Me too…but you'll get used to it," Torres answered, always offering to give Fowler 'advise,' which was somewhat foolish since Nicole was four years older than her and had been in Starfleet almost two decades, but since the engineer had been a senior officer the longest, she felt it was okay for her to offer it. "So, whatcha do…anything fun?"

"Nothin' much…I cleaned up my room some," she answered talking as she ate. "Um…caught up on my personal logs, which I've never been very good at keeping…and kind of just laid around." Getting a bad taste in her mouth from some kind of strange vegetable that usually wasn't in the traditional version of beef stew, Fowler excused herself and grabbed a glass of water. Then coming back, she asked, "Yuck…what the hell is in that?"

Seven of Nine examined the bowl from across the table for two beats, then answered plain and flat, "Kreiate. It is native to the Delta Quadrant and found on most habitable planets. Mister Neelix grows the vegetable in the Airponics Bay." Sipping her supplement, she asked, "You do not find it acceptable?"

"Not exactly," Nicole answered. "Do you like it?"

"It is repulsive," Seven stated evenly. "Mister Neelix is fond of it, however."

Chuckling, Fowler remarked, "Hey…something we agree on…must be a fluke thing?"

Seven looked at her squarely, blinked her eyes and then responded, "The probability is high."

When Kathryn had informed her that Nicole Fowler was aware of the threesome's relationship, Seven of Nine had grown instantly uncomfortable, and it had taken all of the captain's diplomatic skills, which were extensive, to convince the Borg that Fowler wasn't being nosey and that she was just trying to be a friend to B'Elanna. After the untrusting Borg pondered that for a few minutes, she finally agreed that she would not approach the pilot about the situation and that she would continue to give the tall brunette the benefit of the doubt; however, she still made it clear that she did not trust the woman completely. The blonde's attitude was slightly different now, though, since Nicole had put herself in harm's way on several occasions to protect the captain, and continued to follow the captain's orders without question, which Seven of Nine demanded, even if she didn't always do so herself. Even though Seven still wasn't certain what Fowler's motivations were, she admitted to herself that the amazon's intentions seemed honorable.

"Was that a joke?"

"It was not."

Laughing, not able to help herself, Nicole shook her head and said, "Just checking…thought maybe I fell into an alternate universe or something?"

"You have not."

"So," Torres butt in quickly, before her girlfriend became even more unfriendly, "Seven and I are going down to the gym later tonight for a little workout…gonna try to drag Red with us too, but I'm not sure she'll to. Chakotay will be there…wanna come?"

Fowler looked at Seven who seemed as though she did not have an opinion, then back at Torres, who seemed rather enthused and replied, "What the hell? Wanna go a few rounds, Torres?"

Smiling, B'Elanna answered, "Sure…I'll let you kick my ass for a while. Maybe you could teach me some of the Kung Fu stuff I keep hearing about?"

Nodding, Fowler said to Seven, "What about you, Seven…you up for a bout? You might learn a thing or two?"

"My self-defense skills are sufficient," Seven stated. "I am Borg."

"Oh, you won't get any argument from me," Fowler smirked, "but, it certainly is a good workout for your abs, and since you're not used to having to worry about getting hurt there…you could learn a couple of techniques to defend that area?"

"Hey," Torres said nudging the stoic blonde, "she's got a point, dollface. Getting punched in the gut is no picnic…take my word for it."

"Very well, I will 'go a few rounds' with you, Lieutenant Fowler," Seven stated, finishing her supplement.

"You know, Seven…if I'm going let you beat the shit out of me…you might want to think about calling me Nick," Nicole said quickly, trying very hard to keep her voice light and friendly, determined to get past the Borg's arrogant shell and see what was underneath out of curiosity and because Torres, whom she liked a great deal, and the captain, whom she admired more and more every day, seemed to be so taken with her. "At least while we're in the ring." When Seven looked at her and furrowed her brow slightly, she sighed, "Or not."

"Lieutenant Fowler," Seven asked flat and fast, "your designation is Nicole…yet you insist on using Nick. Explain."

Fowler forced herself not to be put off by the tall, thin woman's words since she knew they were familiar to her and took a sip of her water to give herself and moment to maintain her composure. "Simple, Seven," Fowler started, forcing a smile and putting her glass down, "Nick is tougher than Nicole. Women seem to like it, well, at least the women I like, and since I like women…it works." Looking over at Torres, she asked, "Don't you agree?"

"Yea…Nicole is too…girly for you…no offense," Torres answered.

"None taken."

"Is that why you refer to B'Elanna Torres as Torres?" asked Seven, curious.

"Yea," answered the tall brunette. "Torres is my pal…we're similar. I think of her as tougher than most people…so I call her Torres. It's a compliment."

"Thanks, Nick."

"Sure," Fowler smiled crookedly. Then looking to the blonde, she asked, "So, why do you call her B'Elanna Torres and not just B'Elanna…or Lanna like the captain does?"

Seven remained silent for a few beats, looking directly at Nicole, again trying to surmise her intentions. Remembering the captain's words, and knowing that Torres and Janeway both wanted her to give Fowler a chance, she sighed and explained, "Lanna is the captain's designation for B'Elanna Torres." When Fowler didn't attempt to say anything, but looked as if she required more data, Seven went on, "I understand that this is a 'special' term that she uses when they are away from their duties. It is similar to Red…and Kathryn's preferred term of endearment…darling. They denote a change in position. Kathryn is no longer is the captain, and B'Elanna Torres is no longer under her command. That is why I do not use it. It is 'special' to Kathryn and B'Elanna Torres."

"So, why not just B'Elanna then?"

Sighing again, but this time because she was uncomfortable not being absolutely certain as to her actions, she stated, "I am not certain, but I prefer to use her full name…perhaps it is the Borg's influence? The Borg are precise." After sipping her water, she went on further, relaxing somewhat. "I also refer to Naomi Wildman in the same manner consistently, even though she often informs me that it is unnecessary. However, if I am not comfortable with an individual, I use their professional designation. Lieutenant Paris is an adequate example." Sighing a third time, Seven admitted, "I do not understand completely why I use professional names out of respect sometimes, as with Commander Tuvok, and out of discomfort, as in Lieutenant Paris."

Really intrigued, and now very curious, Fowler had to ask, "So, that begs the question…why don't you refer to the captain as Kathryn Janeway?"

Again, the Borg took a moment to pause and gaze upon the pilot and silently questioned her motivations. When she felt Torres' hand on her thigh, squeezing it slightly, obviously informing her that it was okay and that she should answer, the Borg looked to Torres for a moment, and then finally to Fowler, and answered the question with the utmost certainty and clarity. "The answer is simple," Seven stated, "to be allowed to use her given name is an honor that I cherish. It is a name that pleases me to speak, pleases her to hear, and reminds me that I am fortunate. It is perfection in of itself."

Putting her arm that had been on the Borg's thin thigh around Seven's back, Torres smiled and said to Fowler, "You see why I love her so much…no one says it better than Seven…ever."

A little taken back and surprised by feeling in the Borg's words, Fowler responded, somewhat breathless, "Wow, Seven…I'm…speechless. That's the sweetest thing I think I've heard." Shaking her head, and grabbing her water, completely bewildered that a woman as outwardly unfeeling as Seven could suddenly change into a hopeless romantic at the drop of the hat, or rather, at the presence of a certain redheaded captain, Fowler said, "I certainly hope the captain knows you feel that way."

That statement not only shocked the Borg beyond acceptable levels, but it instantly informed her that Fowler's words denoted a certain protectiveness for her own, Seven's, interests. She could not think as to how Fowler could use such a statement to her advantage, so believing that it was an honest response, Seven lightened up a little and replied, "I believe Kathryn is aware...however, I will remind her in the near future in 'case' she is not." After sipping her supplement, Seven sat it down with an audible thud, determination in her tone and stated, "Lieutenant Fowler…I am not comfortable with using Nick as your personal designation. Would you be disagreeable if I referred to you as Nicole Fowler?"

Fowler smirked a little, knowing that probably was as close as she was going to get to gaining Seven's trust, at least for a little while, and nodded, "Well, I guess that's better than Lieutenant Fowler? So…yes…I'd say that's fine."

"Very well," Seven of Nine answered, "I will endeavor to utilize this term in the future."

"Hey Seven," Torres asked, jumping in again when she felt that the Borg had reached the end of her friendly rope for the moment, still with her arm around the blonde, "we should give you a nickname…I mean…one that everyone can use."

"I was under the impression that Seven was my 'nickname' since my designation is Seven of Nine, Tertiary Adjunct to Unimatrix 01."

"Well, that's a mouth full," Fowler replied.

"That is correct," the blonde answered, bobbing her head once and turning toward Fowler. Then back to Torres, she went on reciting details which she had learned she was fairly fond of doing, even if it was less efficient than using a neural transceiver, "Shortly after I was severed from the Collective, Kathryn informed me that my Borg destination was 'cumbersome', and asked me if I would be agreeable to Annika Hansen. I informed her that I was not, so we settled with Seven. Kathryn only refers to me as Seven of Nine when she is attempting to gain my undivided attention, or reprimand me." Looking over at Fowler, and then back to Torres, she finished, "Sometimes, she refers to me as Seven of Nine, Annika Hansen…but that is usually when she is professing her affection for me as an individual."

"Yea…but that doesn't really count," B'Elanna replied. "We should come up with something else…Seven's…well…that's your name. That's what everyone knows you as…it's your professional name. Don't you want a personal name too?"

"I was not aware that I required one," answered the Borg. "The term that you refer to me as is sufficient. I do not require another one."

"So you like dollface?" asked Torres, smiling her grin.

"It is acceptable."

"Yea…but do you want me to call you dollface?" asked Fowler tentatively. "That seems sort of…private."

Forcing herself to take a step forward and trust the pilot, even if she was not certain she was doing the right thing, and prepared to change her mind at the slightest provocation, she informed, "B'Elanna Torres has other designations for me, Nicole Fowler. That one can be one which my acquaintences utitliize…unless you are disagreeable, B'Elanna Torres?"

Smiling, and going with the flow since it seemed that Seven was finally starting to relax with Fowler, she said, cheerfully, "Nope, dollface is a good nickname for you, babe. I've got plenty that I can use just for you…besides…you really do have a doll's face…it's perfect for you."

"Very well," Seven responded. Then sighing, she informed, "This conversation is peculiar. I am not certain how it is that it came to pass."

"It's just one of those things," the tanned chief answered. "It's what friends do."

After dinner, Seven of Nine and Torres informed their tall friend that they would meet her in the gymnasium in half an hour. Upon returning to the captain's quarters, both were not surprised to find that the captain was still asleep. However, they were further disturbed to find that she had obviously awaken some time while they were gone and taken another shower because now she was sleeping in the bed, her hair more damp than before, but this time she was dressed in her flannel pajamas.

Sighing heavily, Torres leaned against Seven's tall, thin frame as they stood in the doorway to the captain's bedroom, and whispered, "Dollface…I think that maybe you should wake her up and tell her that we're going to the gym. I'm pretty sure she doesn't want to come with us…so don't push her. I'm going to go to my quarters and change…I'll meet you there."

Seven nodded and responded, equally soft, "I will comply." Once Torres left, Seven walked silently to the bed and sat on the edge near Kathryn's curled up body. Softly, she touched her arm and said, "Kathryn…you are required to end your regeneration cycle for the moment."

Flinching and rolling away from the hand on her arm, Janeway mumbled, "You're not real..."

The Borg furrowed her brow and stated, removing her hand immediately, "Kathryn…it is Seven of Nine."

Opening her eyes, Janeway turned toward Seven, bringing her hand up to her head and sighed, "Seven…oh…darling…what did you say?"

Highly concerned but having very little idea how to handle the situation, Seven answered honestly, "I informed you that you were required to end your regeneration cycle for a moment. I am required to speak with you." Touching the captain's arm again, now that she was lucid, she stated, rather than asked, "You are distressed."

Janeway turned on her side and grabbed Seven's hand, bringing it to her lips and smiled, "Mmm…no, darling, I'm fine. What did you need to tell me?"

"I will be in the gymnasium for several hours this evening…as will B'Elanna Torres," Seven informed, remembering that she was not to force Janeway to answer her questions if she did not feel comfortable doing so, even though she was certain that the captain was indeed distressed. "Nicole Fowler and Commander Chakotay will be there as well. Did you wish to attend?"

"No," Janeway yawned, rubbing her eyes and nuzzling her pillow. "I'm too tired. It was a long day…and I think it's just catching up to me. Thank you, though."

As Janeway continued to hold her hand to her face, Seven asked, "Do you require my company? It is not required that I leave. I can perform my physical exercises here."

The captain kissed Seven's hand one more time and said, "No, darling…you go and have fun with B'Elanna and Nick. I'm just going to sleep anyway." Then turning on her back, she opened her eyes and smirked, asking, "Can I get one of those wonderful kisses before you leave, though?"

"That is something that you shall never go without for long, my Kathryn," Seven said, leaning down and kissing the sleepy redhead. Keeping the kiss tender and soft…passionate, yet not arousing, she pulled away after a moment, leaving the captain smiling and asked, "Are you aware that your name is perfection to me?"

Smiling rather brightly for her drowsiness, Janeway replied with a question, "My name…is…perfection?"

"This is correct," the Borg replied, nodding once. "It is perfection because it's barer is also perfection." Brushing the hair off the captain's brow, Seven explained, "I am Borg, Kathryn…my goal is to obtain perfection. In you, I have found it."

"Seven," Janeway whispered, turning back on her side and snuggling with the blonde's arm, "you're such a good fibber." Kissing her hand again, she said, "I love you so much, darling…you mean everything to me…you're my smile."

The Borg leaned down and kissing the captain's temple, she came back, "And you are my beautiful Kathryn. You may resume your regeneration cycle. I will return to you shortly."

"Okay…say hi to every one for me, huh?"

"I will comply."

"No luck getting the captain to come play with us?" questioned Nicole, not surprised, as she stretched out with B'Elanna Torres while Chakotay warmed up with the punching bag toward the back of the room.

"Ka...the captain is required to regenerate at this time," Seven stated evenly and somewhat protectively as she walked up to the two brunettes dressed in the back, sleeveless jumper she wore when she played Velocity with Janeway. "She sends her greetings, however." Looking at them oddly, the Borg finally inquired, "What is this activity that you are engaging in?"

"We're stretching our muscles so we don't pull anything," B'Elanna Torres explained. "Not everyone is as limber as you are all the time, dollface."

"She doesn't have to stretch?" asked Folwer, leaning down and placing her hands on the mat.

"I think it's a Borg thing."

Raising her eyebrow, Seven corroborated, "That is correct. I believe 'stretching' would be considered inefficient. The Borg are always prepared."

"Lucky you," replied Fowler, standing up and bringing her knees to her chest one at a time quickly, hopping a little. Then swirling her arms around and throwing a few punches, she said, "Well, I'm ready…you ready, Torres?"

Standing up, the chief answered, "Let the ass whopping begin…I don't want to be gone too long."

Nicole Fowler ignored that comment, knowing that if Janeway wanted to talk to her, she would, and said, "Okay…let's put on the pads. I don't want to have to explain away any bruises to the captain." Then looking over at Seven, she said, "Why don't you watch for a few rounds…and then you can take over. This will be a little different than the type of thing you're used to. It's not as efficient as simply breaking necks…but it's a good workout."

"Very well," Seven responded, following them to the ring at the back of the room. "What is the objective?"

"To kick ass," answered Torres, enthused and grinning happily. "Which I'm sure Nick will demonstrate effectively."

"Actually," Nick amended, putting on her gloves, "the objective is to learn how to defend yourself, an counter effectively. You've got to have a good defense before you can have a good offense." Throwing a padded helmet to Torres, she continued, "We're not here to kick ass…we're here to learn how to kick ass, if the need arises. This is about discipline, patience, and adaptation."

"Patience is irrelevant," Seven said without missing a beat. "Precision is all that is required."

"That's if you're trying to kill someone…and if you're Borg, Seven," Fowler reminded. "Try to set those aside for a while. We're not here to kill each other…or learn how to kill someone. We're here to learn how to defend ourselves and inflict only damage that is required. It's important to remember to respect our enemies...even if we hate them. Only kill if you have no other choice."

Jumping into the ring, putting in her mouth piece as Chakotay came over to her corner, Torres said, "Okay, Nick…enough talk…let's go."

Fowler ducked under the ropes and said, "Alright…now, no street brawling, Torres…I've seen you fight. You're all elbows and double fists. Why don't you work on just blocking…and I'll be the aggressor?"

"Don't worry, Fowler…I left the bat'leth at home," Torres smiled. Then raising her gloves, she nodded and said, "Okay, hit me."

As their bout began, the chief did well to keep her end of the bargain, not letting her Klingon side get the best of her. Although, there were a couple of times when the shorter brunette, after blocking and punch or kick, growled as her stocky body coiled on instinct, but the tall brunette did well to back off a minute and let the feisty hybrid recover and settle herself. After a few rounds, Fowler suggested that they switch tactics and let Torres be the attacker, which turned out to be a little more difficult than she had hoped since the engineer was obviously accustomed to fighting barehanded, using her elbows and entire body, and did little in the way of boxing as she struggled to maintain her technique and not revert to what she knew. Toward the end of the fourth round, Torres was making good progress with the assistance of Chakotay, who continued to give her advice from the corner during each round, reminding her to stay focused and box, not fight, but unfortunately, Fowler had to put an end to the match since she knew that if she continued to fight Torres, who was a fair opponent, even out of her element, she wouldn't have enough left to fight Seven, who she knew would give her a run for her money, just with speed alone.

After Torres and Fowler shared a few friendly pats on the shoulder and some water, Chakotay and B'Elanna came over to the bench near the ring and sat down as Seven of Nine stepped in. Fowler helped her put on her gloves and helmet, while they discussed what Seven had observed and how they would proceed. Fowler suggested that they should proceed in the same fashion as she and Torres had, the pilot being the aggressor at first. Furthermore, she stated, that since Seven's reflexes were so keen, she would add a few more moves, just to keep things interesting, and she warned Seven that she was going to focus most of her attempts on the blonde's abdomen, wanting her to get in the habit of defending that area, since it was her weakest region at the moment. She also reminded the Borg that since she had gloves on, she couldn't use grabbing someone's hand and crushing it as a defense, and that she should instead just block Fowler's hands, feet and knees away.

Seven took everything that Fowler said in, and finally nodded, standing straight, and informed, "Very well, Nicole Fowler…proceed."

Chuckling, Nick took a few steps back and bounced around on her heels, circling Seven who did not move, except to keep her body directly in front of the pilot. Not surprised in the least, Fowler threw her first punch, keeping it to a light jab, which Seven blocked easily, barely blinking. Smiling, feeling like the game was definitely afoot as Chakotay and Torres came up the ring, watching closely, Fowler threw a more powerful right cross, but again, Seven batted it away as if it were an annoying insect. Bringing up her foot, she jabbed at Seven's midsection quickly, prepared to pull away if the blonde did not block quick enough, not wanting to hurt her, but Seven remained true to form and defended herself easily.

Sighing, Seven stated, "You are adapting your technique because you are concerned about injuring me. It is unnecessary. I cannot 'learn' an adequate defense if I do not have an adequate opponent."

Fowler backed away and said, slapping her gloves together, "Okay, dollface…but don't break my neck or sick the captain on me if you miss once, okay?"

"I will not." Seven smirked. "You may proceed to…'kick ass.' I will only defend."

Bouncing on her heels again, Fowler spun into a kick, aiming right for Seven's chest, only restraining the power used as she did when she fought Wang…anything more she saved for when it was real, and she was attempting to hurt someone. When Seven blocked it, stepping out of the way, Fowler spun again quickly, barely waiting, lifting her leg higher, which Seven again blocked, the impact making a loud smacking sound. Again, Fowler spun, aiming lower this time, more for Seven's knees, and when Seven jumped back, Nicole came to a stop and said, "Good…are you ready for combinations?"

"I am Borg."

"Got it," Fowler smiled, and then didn't waste anytime coming at Seven. After she kicked at her head, not spinning, just jabbing at her, which the blonde avoided by leaning back a little, the pilot lunged at her with one fist to the gut, and as Seven was blocking that, another to the head. Seven continued to block the next five punches with both hands, not attempting to counter, although everyone knew that if this was a real fight she would have done so already. When Fowler spun in the air, Seven ducked, letting her kick pass over her head and when Fowler followed that with another kick, lowering it since Seven was squatting, the Borg caught her foot and pushed her back onto the mat.

Jumping up, Fowler said, breathing a little heavily, "Damn you're fast…that can't be all Borg?"

"You are still modifying your attack in attempts to teach me," Seven explained. "It was a logical assumption that your next move would be an attempt to catch me in my lowered state. I believe if this were a actual contest, your actions would not be as predictable."

"I think if this were an actual contest, I would have been dead five minutes ago," Fowler smiled and laughed, somewhat nervously. "Why don't we switch sides then? That way you can't predict what I'm going to do?"

"As you wish," Seven stated, nodding her head once. "I am not accustomed to kicking, however. The Borg do not kick."

"Okay, we'll work on that next time…just try to hit me then," Fowler said, raising her arms.

Approaching Fowler with her arms lowered, Seven stood in front of her, watched her for a moment and then swug, pushing past her arm and connecting with her jaw, which thankfully was padded.

As Fowler fell to the floor, Chakotay winced and said, "Uh, Seven…not so hard. Lighten up a little."

Torres rushed over to the downed amazon and asked from outside the ring, "You okay, Nick?"

Shaking her head, Fowler replied, "Guess I forgot to tell her to…adapt." Then standing, Fowler shook it off and said to Seven, "That's quite a punch you've got there, dollface…mind easing up a little? I'd like to keep out of Sickbay for a while."

Sincerely not meaning to injure the woman, the Borg informed immediately, "I apologize, Nicole Fowler. I will adapt." Her brow creasing and her full, coral lips turning downward, she queried, "Are you damaged?"

Rolling her neck around and bouncing on her heels, Fowler slapped her hands together and said, "Nope, but why don't we even the score and make this a real match? Defense and offense…I think you can handle both."

About to respond with her typical, "I am Borg" answer, she stopped herself, understanding that the Fowler might not appreciate that at the moment, so instead, she stated, "Acceptable."

Approaching Seven cautiously, keeping a defensive posture, she finally requested, "At least raise your gloves…I'd like to keep some dignity here." As Seven raised her eyebrow and then her hands, Fowler spun into a kick, which Seven blocked, then quickly sidestepped the Borg's counter, barely missing being caught the face again. Spinning away, she turned and raised her foot, keeping the blonde at bay, then twisted around with a backhand. Seven blocked that fairly easily, but before she countered, Fowler raised her foot, which forced Seven to jump back to keep from getting caught in the stomach. Feeling that the Borg was somewhat out of her zone, since she simply couldn't grasp onto the woman's hand or foot and crush it, the pilot stepped up the attack, jumping and kicking forcefully and crisply, the snap of her pants clearly audible, but Seven was ready for that, and after sidestepping, she turned and whirled with inhuman agility, into to a similar backhand that barely caught Fowler's shoulder as she jumped out of the way.

After that, they traded punches, all of them blocked with astounding skill, and as Fowler stood toe to toe with Seven, she could see behind her azure eyes that there was a computer honing in on her, studying her moves, learning techniques after only witnessing them once, predicting her next, and she could feel herself starting to lose what small edge she had as the Borg's speed increased, and before she knew it, Seven was at her, throwing a spinning back hand with stunning quickness, then followed by a left jab, a right cross, another back hand, and all Fowler could do was let instinct that came with years of training take over and block as fast as she could, having no time to think of a counter. Just when she thought she had had it, something caught the Borg's attention, and jumping on the opportunity, Fowler swung with her right hand.

Connecting squarely with the Borg's jaw, sending her crashing to the ground, Nick said quickly, running over to her, "Shit! Seven, I'm sorry. Are you okay?"

Seven of Nine blinked her eyes and stated, pushing herself up, "I am…functioning." Then looking over her shoulder at the compact redhead that was walking toward her with a definite crispness to her step, Seven stated, "Kathryn…your timing was…unfortunate."

"Seven, are you alright?" asked Janeway, glancing up at Fowler and looking at her disapprovingly, pursing her lips and narrowing her crystalline eyes.

The Borg stood easily and stated removing her helmet, "I was merely distracted. I did not expect to see you."

Sighing with relief that she hadn't hurt Seven, knowing that such an action would definitely be frowned upon by the captain just by the look she received moments ago from the redhead, Fowler took off her helmet as well and mumbled, "Well, at least I know she's got one weakness…"

As Fowler climbed out of the ring, Chakotay came up to her and patted her on the shoulder, saying, "Don't worry about it, Nick…you did well. I don't think I would have lasted two seconds under that kind of assault." Then whispering in her ear, he chuckled, "Besides, she could use to get knocked on her butt every now and then…I'm just glad it was you and not me, though."

"Right," Fowler huffed, tearing off her gloves. Then rubbing her chin, she said, "Well, I guess we're even then." Walking up to Seven and the captain, Fowler said, extending her hand graciously, although still staying far away from Janeway, "Seven, you're one hell of a fighter…glad you're on our side."

Shaking the pilot's hand, Seven stated, "You are an acceptable opponent as well, Nicole Fowler." Then looking back at the captain, who was now dressed in her uniform once again, Seven asked, paying the pilot no further attention, "Are you here to engage in physical activities?"

"I was just on my rounds," answered the captain. "Just thought I'd stop by to see what you were all up to." Grasping Seven's chin and examining her, she said, frowning, "I'm sorry I distracted you…are you sure you're not injured…your face is awfully red?"

"I am undamaged," Seven informed again, warmed by Kathryn's concern, although also not wanting it to continue at the moment. "Do not concern yourself with this matter further." As B'Elanna Torres and Chakotay headed over to the punching bag while Fowler continued to sip water and move her sore jaw back and forth, Seven informed, "However, I believe I have fulfilled my exercise requirements today. May I accompany you for the remainder of your ritual?"

"I'd like that," smiled the captain, releasing the tall blonde's face and winking at her, patting her on the shoulder. "Give me minute to talk to B'Elanna," she said, walking toward the punching bag where Chakotay was working on his jab as Torres held the bag. Sliding up next to him, the captain crossed her arms over her chest and asked, "Mind if I borrow your partner for a minute?"

Shaking his head, the commander tapped Torres on the shoulder and said, "I'll be over at the swinging bag…you still owe me a round or two, kid."

"Don't worry, old man…I'll make time to kick your butt," the Klingon smirked over her shoulder. Then turning back toward Janeway, she inched closer to her and smiled, saying, "You always did know how to make an entrance." When the captain didn't respond much, the brunette softened and whispered, "You okay?"

Shaking her head affirmatively once, and not entirely convincingly, Janeway put her hand on the bag, pressing her thumb into it and replied, partly avoiding the question, "I was wondering…if it's not too much trouble…"

Torres scooted closer and tapped the bag lightly, finishing for the redhead, "Do you want me to stay the night again?"

"Do you mind?" she sighed, asking. "I don't want to put you out…and I know you haven't had any free time lately."

Finally giving up on trying to keep her distance and not caring who saw her, even though everyone in the room already knew the situation, but if anyone else happened to walk in, she wasn't going to let that stop her, Torres grabbed the captain's waist with her gloved hands and said, "I was already going to stay…there's no place else I need or want to be tonight."

Running her knuckles across the muscular women's taught, bare abdomen, in a rare public display of affection, the captain said, practically soundlessly, "Thank you." Swallowing and looking down at her hand that was touching her lover, she continued in the same tone, "I'm just a little edgy right now…it's nothing to be concerned about…but you always seem to know how to settle me down."

"Well, that's a switch," Torres chuckled softly. Then lifting Janeway's chin, she asked, "Have I mentioned lately how completely crazy in love I am with you?"

"I think you said something early this morning to that effect…but it's possible I was mistaken," Janeway smirked shyly. Then patting her stomach, she said, "I love you too…and I won't keep you from your fun any longer." Making and fist and tapping it lightly against Torres' stomach, she said, "Pop the old man once for me, huh?"

"Not so fast," Torres replied quickly, grabbing the captain and pulling her in for an incredibly romantic kiss, bending her backward slightly. When she felt Kathryn's body finally relax and then grow relatively limp, Torres released her mouth, smiled still bending her over some, and said as she pulled the captain's back upright, "Now you can go."

Bringing her hand to her chest, catching her breath, she gasped fairly silently, blinking, "Gracious." Janeway then cleared her throat when she heard Chakotay snickering with Fowler and said, clearly, "Well…um…sorry to interrupt…thank you, B'Elanna."

As Janeway walked away blushing, straightening her uniform and centering her shoulders, heading for the door with Seven in tow, just a footstep aft, Torres said, hitting her fists together and grinning, "Anytime, Red." Once the captain was out of the door, the Klingon sighed heavily, then clenched her teeth and walloped the punching bag for all she was worth as she walked past it, snarling, vociferously, "QI'yaH."

Fowler nodded toward Chakotay who was sighing and asked in a hushed tone, honestly not knowing, "Does she always do that after she kisses someone?"

"Not with the captain," was all he said, walking up to Torres and meeting her halfway. "Want to talk about it?"

"Absolutely not," Torres replied clipped. "All I want is to know why we never get a fuckin' break?" Then jumping into the ring, putting on her helmet, she said to Chakotay and Fowler who both were looking at her with concerned expressions on their faces, and spat, "So…are boxing here or what?"

"Hiya, dollface," greeted the chief engineer, walking into the captain's cabin, throwing her sweat towel over her shoulder and waving at Seven who was standing by the window examining a PADD, most likely the one containing her Slipstream project information since that was practically the only thing the Borg worked on when she wasn't on duty. Covered with a thin sheen of perspiration, her grey sport's bra and matching shorts showing the signs of her workout, Torres wiped her face with her towel, then stood on her tip toes to kiss the tall blonde on the cheek, sighing as she heard the unmistakable sound of the shower, "She's taking another shower…"

"That is correct," Seven replied, looking away from the device and dropping her hands to her sides. "She states that they assist her to 'unwind' and think." Quietly, the stoic blonde informed, "I do not believe those are her only motivations. This afternoon I researched the behavior patterns of victims of sexually based assaults. The sensation that they are unclean is said to be quite overwhelming; thus, the need for constant cleansing rituals. Kathryn is demonstrating several typical responses."

"What are the other ones?" asked Torres, concerned and curious since she didn't feel like she had any idea how Kathryn should or shouldn't act.

Seven placed her hands behind her back as an automatic reaction to explaining a situation and informed, "This evening we when we returned, she was not only regenerating at an unusual time, but she was not in her bed, with the cabin illuminated, and dressed in full uniform. The first thing Kathryn does when she returns to her quarters is to remove her tunic and then her boots. She does this consistently, even if she knows she will only remain for a short amount of time." When Torres nodded like she understood, Seven went on, "Later, she was in her bed, but wearing her flannel nightwear. Kathryn prefers her nightgown; however, that garment does not cover her body as her 'pajamas' do."

"So, what does all that mean…exactly?"

Sighing, the ex-drone admitted, "I am not entirely certain. More research must be done. However, the need to be fully clothed signifies that she feels unprotected. Kathryn especially feels protected in her uniform. She feels more confident…less vulnerable. It is her… 'shield.' I believe that she is keeping this cabin unnecessarily illuminated so that she can detect everything. Even though I am certain that Kathryn does not believe that her attacker will return, there seems to be part of her that is doubting; thus, the need to make certain that if he does return, she is prepared and not caught off guard. It is possible that she has developed a phobia of the dark after her experience in Sickbay."

Torres sat down and couch and said, looking down as her head sunk, "What do we do?"

"It is possible that this is will pass quickly," Seven informed, sitting down next to her girlfriend. "Kathryn is the most resilient individual aboard this vessel. It is quite possible that she will adapt quickly. Patience is required at this time." Sighing, Seven finished, "I believe that only… 'time will tell.'"

Lifting her head, Torres said, getting up, "Okay…but Nick also told me that we should just continue to be ourselves…and that if she's uncomfortable, she'll let us know." Walking toward the bathroom, she explained, "So, I'm going to go join her…I need a shower anyway. That's something that I would do…right?"

"I believe that would be acceptable," Seven informed, standing. "However, I do not believe you should attempt to engage in sexual behavior unless she initiates it. That could be uncomfortable for her at this time."

Nodding, Torres gave her a thumb's up walked into the bathroom through the open door, a little surprised by the amount of steam coming out of the shower stall. Before she took off her clothes, she took a moment to pause and decided that maybe she shouldn't be so presumptuous. So, coming up to the smoky, fogged up glass, she opened the door just a crack, preparing to ask if it was okay if she joined her.

Standing in the shower, leaning with her arms against the back wall, letting the hot water beat down on her back as she lulled her head in between her outstretched arms, the captain's heart skipped a beat as a shadow passed quickly in front of the shower door. It had been sudden and soundless, but she was certain she hadn't seen the top of Seven of Nine's head; her buttery locks easily visible over the top of the partition due to the woman's height, especially when she was wearing her biosuit with the impressive heels sown into the feet.

Spinning around, Janeway grabbed the first thing she could find, a plastic bottle of shampoo and reared it back. When the shadow returned and stopped in front of the doorway, no longer fooling her senses, the redhead's pulse raced as she croaked, "Seven…is that you?"

As the door opened revealing a dark head of hair, Janeway tossed the shampoo bottle at the door and shrieked, reaching for the soap immediately, "Seven! Help me!"

Ducking out of the way of the bottle just in time, the plastic rebounding off the back wall and knocking over the captain's tooth brush holder, Torres said quickly, "Red…it's Lanna," as Seven of Nine bolted into the room in a rush of air. As she was about to apologize and not stop until the day she died for scaring Janeway so, Torres' eyes fell upon the captain's thin legs…and more specifically, the dark, black and purple bruises that were scarring the inside of her thighs and knees. Flinging the door open as Janeway dropped the soap to the floor and brought one hand to cover her forehead, the other holding her stomach as she breathed heavily and quickly, the chief asked, coming into the stall and not caring that her clothes were getting drenched, "What the hell happened?"

Trying to take a deep breath, Janeway said, still looking down and holding her forehead, then slicking her damp hair back, "You just startled me, Lanna…I'm sorry I threw the shampoo at you."

As Seven obviously saw what Torres had seen and stepped into the doorway, although staying out of the water since her biosuits tended to take a long time to dry once wet, the material rather sponge like, the Klingon explained, "Kathryn…your legs…what happened to your legs?"

Having forgotten about that being so frightened, Janeway looked down at the dark marks that she hadn't informed the Doctor she had, not wanting to remove her pants that evening, or wanting him to touch her anywhere below her waist, and having purposefully worn pants under her medical gown when her shoulder and ankle had been tended to, the redhead shut off the water quickly and said, pushing past Torres and Seven, going for a towel, "It's nothing, darling…I'll get it taken care of in the morning."

"Kathryn," Seven said, turning around as Janeway wrapped a towel around her slight body, "you have been damaged. Why have you not allowed the Doctor to repair you?"

Angry that her privacy had been broken, yet again, that she knew she looked absolutely pathetic in her fear, and that she was having to explain something very personal and rather traumatic, Janeway said, pushing past Seven again and going into her closet, closing the door behind her, "I haven't been damaged, Seven…I'm perfectly fine. Now, I'd like some privacy if you two don't mind."

As Kathryn Janeway 'slammed' the door closed with her hand, B'Elanna Torres stepped out the shower, her light, cotton workout clothes dripping wet, and reprimanded herself, slapping her forehead, "Idiot!" Snatching up a towel, she grabbed Seven of Nine, pulling her out of the ensuite and into the living room, closing the bedroom door, saying, "Go get a dermal regenerator from Sickbay…don't let the Doctor see you."

Nodding, Seven asked, desperately before she left, "B'Elanna Torres, what will you do?"

Trying to dry off, Torres said, frustrated, "Kiddo, I think we just royally fucked up. Let's just get her what she needs and then go back to my place for the night. I'll leave her a note and tell her that if she needs us, all she has to do is call. I think that's best right now."

The tall blonde sighed heavily and spun, heading toward the door walking with purpose, "Very well. I shall return shortly." Marching down the hall, keeping the tears from her eyes since she knew that if the Doctor's program was still active, he would be curious as to why Seven required a medical instrument. Stepping into the turbolift, she said, "Deck Five," as she began to formulate a plan to deceive him. Seven of Nine, however, was the first to admit that when it came to subterfuge and trickery, she wasn't entirely adequate; however, since this was vital to Kathryn's well being, she was prepared to give the performance of a lifetime.

Exiting the lift and marching down the hall, Seven took a deep breath, calmed herself, put on her best stoic, emotionless face and breezed into Sickbay, walking with purpose. When the Doctor turned around and smiled happily as he placed various instruments back where they belonged, obviously preparing to deactivate himself for the evening, Seven paid the hologram little attention as she approached the tray of medical equipment.

"Hello, Seven…is there something I can help you with?" the balding, photonic projection asked cheerfully, never being one to hide his fondness for the attractive young woman.

"I do not require your assistance at this time," Seven stated cool and calm, barely glancing at him, grabbing the dermal regenerator. Then turning on her heels, she started for the door and offered, "Goodnight, Doctor."

Before the Borg left with one of his tools, the man piped up, "Uh, Seven…do you want to tell me where you're going with that?"

Seven stopped and replied, lying, turning half way around, "My destination is Cargo Bay Two."

When the ex-drone started for the door again, the hologram folded his arms over her chest, creases forming in his sizable brow and asked, "And what do you plan on doing with it?"

Sighing on purpose, putting on that she was annoyed that she had to continually explain herself, making as if she thought that the chain of command was inefficient and unharmonious, since that was how she used to feel, very strongly, in fact, the Borg stated, "I am going to analyze this instrument. I will return it tomorrow, I assure you. There is no need to be alarmed."

"Seven," the Doctor said, coming up to her, somewhat unconvinced, "if you've been injured, then you should allow me to treat you. That instrument can do more harm than good if not used properly."

Raising her eyebrow, Seven replied, something condescendingly, "That is correct. That is one reason I wish to study it. I believe it may be possible to make this technology more efficient." Then titling her head and speaking firmly, she went on, "I am undamaged, and was under the impression that if I wished to work on my 'hobbies' during off hours, that I was encouraged to proceed. These words are expressly from Captain Janeway. Efficiency and technology are 'hobbies' of mine. Furthermore, I do not appreciate that you are questioning my motives." Facing him totally, she asked bluntly, "Do you not trust me, Doctor?"

The hologram backed down instantly, mostly because he certainly didn't want to get in between the captain and her protective instincts for the Borg, and said, "Of course I trust you, Seven. I'm just doing my job…sometimes crew members have attempted to hide their injuries from me. I was just making certain."

"As I stated, Doctor, I am undamaged. May I analyze this device or not?"

"Yes…of course…I've got plenty," the Doctor answered quickly. Walking away, he said, "You'll let me know what you discover?"

Looking at him like he was a complete lummox, the Borg answered, "It would be illogical for me not to do so since you are the Chief Medical Officer. I will return in the morning with my analysis."

As Seven of Nine exited the captain's cabin, Torres took a few seconds to settle herself and stop her silent castigation, knowing that this behavior would do no one any good at this time. Going over to her wounded lover's desk, sighing as she noticed that the flowers she had given her were gone and knew that they most likely died because Kathryn couldn't tend to them when she was hiding out in her cabin, she opened the top drawer, searching for a PADD or something that she could use to write Janeway a small note. Not surprised to find several pieces of paper and a fountain pen, she removed them and sat down at the desk, not having any time, however, to enjoy the redhead's somewhat quirky penchant for old-fashioned things. Torres had always found it rather odd that the captain, a woman that at the time of Voyager's departure for the Badlands commanded the most technically sophisticated ship in Starfleet and was a capable scientist and all around technical guru, would also find solace in such archaic things as paper, matches, bound books, and camping, but no matter how surprising her lover's preferences were, she had to admit that it added a certain charm to a woman who Torres thought was deeper and more dynamic than anyone she had ever met. Grasping the pen, the device feeling awkward in her fist, Torres did her best to scratch out her note in a semi-readable text, writing:

Looking up as Seven waltzed into the quarters silently, carrying the dermal regenerator, Torres sighed and questioned, putting the pen back in the desk, handing the note to Seven, "Can you read this?"

Seven raised her eyebrow at the fairly poor penmanship and replied, "It is…legible." Handing the device to Torres, Seven asked, following her toward the captain's bedroom door, quiet, "B'Elanna Torres…are you certain this is the most prudent action for us to take? Perhaps we should remain?"

Torres waited to answer until she placed the note on the floor in front of the captain's closed door, setting the dermal regenerator on top of it. Backing away, taking Seven's arm and pulling her out of the room, Torres said, "No…I don't really know…but I…think…that this is best. Let's just go and give her privacy…she deserves it. She's been watched, hounded, and bothered too much lately…she's not used to it."

The tall Borg pulled away from Torres quickly and walked over to the couch where she had dropped her PADD when the captain had screamed for her assistance. Picking it up and returning to Torres' side, walking out of the door with her, Seven explained, "I am required to continue my efforts on the Slipstream technology. I believe now would be a prudent time to return to the Alpha Quadrant. There are many facilities that could offer the captain assistance in this manner that are not available to her here."

"Maybe we should talk to Nick tonight?" offered Torres, stepping into the turbolift after Seven. "Deck Ten. Maybe she can tell us what we're doing wrong?"

Hardening quite a bit, the cool blonde answered fast, "Kathryn's personal struggle is none of Nicole Fowler's business. I do not believe she would wish us to discuss such matters with anyone. It is private. We would be violating her privacy further."

Explaining, B'Elanna responded, "That's not what I meant…maybe just you and I should talk to her…get some advice on how to be better…whatever we are…for Red? We don't have to say what exactly happened, just that we made her mad."

"I will not allow it," Seven answered. "Kathryn would not wish it. We must honor her wishes at this time."

Sighing, Torres crosses her arms over her chest and said, "Okay…but if things don't get better…I don't care what you say…I'm going to talk to Nick for myself."

Seven exited the turbolift and stated, "Very well…if you require the lieutenant's counseling services, I will not resist. I still believe patience is required at this time. It is still early in the process. I have researched this." Taking Torres hand, Seven said, "I do not mean to be…unreasonable…however, I believe that involving Nicole Fowler without Kathryn's consent could further her unease. She is an extremely private individual. Her position demands it."

"I know, dollface…I'm just worried sick. I've never heard her…scream like that," Torres said, sadly. "She sounded so scared. It's not like her…I don't know how to act when she's freaked." As one male and one female crewmember walked past, gawking, Torres lost her temper, figuring they were staring at the fact that she and Seven were holding hands, not that she looked something akin to a drenched puppy and that her clothes were practically see through, and growled, "What the hell are you looking at?"

Over her shoulder, the short, blonde female replied, flippant and irritated, "Nice outfit…why don't you just walk around naked, Torres?"

Stopping, and placing her hand on B'Elanna's shoulder as the Klingon tensed and started after the unknowing woman, Seven took several steps toward the female, who had stopped hearing B'Elanna's snarl, and stated looking down upon her, "Ensign Yates…how Lieutenant Torres chooses to dress on her off time is irrelevant to you, nor is it your place to make such a disparaging comment. You will cease this conversation and be on your way or I will bring this matter up with Commander Chakotay and let him decide who is in error."

"Since when did you get promoted?" asked the woman, standing her ground rather brazenly.

Seven of Nine took a threatening step toward the petite Operations officer and said, crisply, "Comply."

Huffing, the woman turned, walking away and spat, "Bitch…and yea…you can put that in your stupid report."

The stoic blonde raised her eyebrow and spun continuing on her way, explaining to the engineer who was smirking slightly, "She will be concerned for her position for several days. That is an acceptable punishment."

Torres grabbed Seven's hand again and said, "Thanks, dollface. She's pretty brave…gotta give her that much."

"She is merely jealous since she would not look as appealing as you do in such a state," Seven informed, walking proudly with her girlfriend at her arm. "I am also accustomed to hostility from other females aboard this ship that are intimidated by my…'assets.'"

Actually laughing, the Klingon said, approaching her quarters, "Seven, you really are a bitch sometimes…don't ever change."

Understanding that the derogatory term was a compliment from the only other woman on the ship who was referred to in the same manner as often as herself, Seven replied, "I will comply."

Kathryn Janeway wasn't certain how long she had remained in her closet, shutting out the world and everything that threatened her resolve, but after changing into a fresh uniform since she hadn't taken her other one from the bathroom with her on her hasty departure, she sat for what seemed like hours in her closet, examining the contents of her secret trunk, and did her best to hold back the ocean of tears she knew she would cry if she allowed it. After a lengthy trip down memory lane, using the various correspondence, trinkets and books that reminded her of who exactly she was, where she had come from, what she believed in, the forlorn woman packed everything back up, stood and took a few minutes to work the feeling back into her legs. Then leaving the closet, clearing her throat of all turmoil, Janeway took a deep breath, straightened her uniform and practiced her smile, hoping it wouldn't crack her granite like face.

Exhaling, she touched the sensor at her bedroom door and announced, stepping out, "I have a few things to do…"

Coming to a dead stop, glancing down at the silver object that caught her attention at her feet, the captain's heart broke as she instantly recognized it. Swallowing back her emotion again, she knelt down carefully and retrieved what was waiting for her. As she rose, she poked her head out into the living room, just to make certain that no one was there, friend or foe, and took the contents of her hands back into her bedroom, closing the door once again. Sitting carefully on the end of the bed, she chuckled once, almost silent, as she saw the erratic scrawl of the note, knowing before she deciphered one syllable that it was Torres' since she was fairly certain that if Seven of Nine did know how to write, her penmanship would be perfect.

Janeway squinted some as she read the note, cradling the medical instrument in the right palm, and sighed heavily, looking up when she finished. With a mixture of guilt, appreciation, angst, and confusion, she set the note on her bed and looked down at the silver cylinder, quite aware that she was breaking protocol by even having it, but also knowing that she never planned on letting the Doctor tend to her. The fact that two of her senior officers had swiped it for her, left her a little unsettled merely because it was one thing to break the rules herself, but something completely different to allow her crew to do it for her. Although, the moral 'dilemma' passed by her within seconds as the urgent need to use the stolen device welled up in her.

After requesting a lock be put on her door that only she could open, Janeway stripped off her pants and stockings and scooted back on her bed so she could stretch out her bruised legs.

Janeway held her hand to the sensor at the top and passed the bright blue light discharged from the instrument over the harsh remnants of her ordeal, doing her best to not look at them as anything other than as an outside observer. Since she had several marks, some of them fairly deep bruises, especially on her inner thighs since the skin was so incredibly sensitive there, it took her several agonizing minutes to return her limbs to an unblemished state. After setting the device aside, the captain ran her fingers over her legs, testing the sensitivity to make sure she hadn't missed any deeper wounds, and then sadly, she stared at her now heeled tissue and sighed because she didn't feel any better really, which surprised her. She had assumed that part of her unease was that every time she changed, or moved a certain way, she was reminded of her assault because her wounds weren't healed, but now that she was returned to her perfect physical state of health, she realized that there were plenty of other triggers left, most of them running around in her mind, that continued to tap her on the shoulder every other minute and say, "Hey you…don't forget."

Dressing again, Janeway set the note and the device on the small table next to her bed and exited her quarters, heading for the Bridge since she knew there was no way she was going to be able to sleep alone tonight until she ran herself into the ground, and since she felt she just couldn't face her lovers at the moment, there was no where else for her to go.

Entering the Bridge, she waved her hand somewhat harshly to the ensign who announced her presence crisply, obviously not expecting to see her and said, "As you were. I'll be in my Ready Room…and see that I'm not disturbed."

By rote, the captain ascended the stairs and retrieved her coffeepot, then shook her head, remembering that it was a replacement, the knowledge triggering more unpleasant thoughts. Snatching it up quickly, she cursed under her breath and stomped over to her replicator, barking at the device to fill it up. Then taking it out of the energy grind and making a trip to her desk to get her workstation, she climbed the stairs again and sat down. Pouring a cup, she gulped it quickly, ignoring the stinging sensation on her tongue, and accessed her terminal, hoping that there was at least something new for her to read, not really feeling like going over the reports that she had flagged and set aside, informing herself that they required a more in-depth study, or contemplation before she either okayed or returned them requesting for more information.

When five new reports popped up as well as one personal message, the captain made a fairly pleased sound in her throat, almost surprised that the universe seemed to be going along with her at the moment. Normally, it was the captain's habit of leaving personal correspondence for last, but considering the hour, she decided to tackle that one first which would leave the rest of her time before she dropped dead of exhaustion, to her actual duty. When she saw that it was from Naomi Wildman, Janeway managed to smile softly as she read:

Smiling in mirth as she shook her head, having a small laugh as she reread the note, clearly seeing Seven of Nine's influence on the young girl's linguistics, Janeway set down her coffee for a moment and replied:

At 0715 hours, Seven of Nine kissed B'Elanna Torres before exiting her quarters and informed the engineer that she had a few things to attend to before she and the brunette met up in Cargo Bay Two to test out Seven's adapted alcove. With less than her normal purpose to her step, the tall, cool blonde left Deck Ten, entered the turbolift and exited on Deck Three. When she approached the captain's quarters, which were also her quarters, although no official change in the ship's database had been made yet due to the recent, chaotic events, the Borg pressed her hand to the door call sensor, feeling as though she should not just enter.

After fifteen seconds when no one answered, Seven sighed and tapped the sensor, opening it and said coming into the dark quarters, "Kathryn…are you present?" Having a feeling that she wasn't since the lights were off and Janeway usually kept some lights on when she prepared for her day, Seven walked quickly toward the bedroom. When the door was open and the dermal regenerator was not on the floor in front of it, she proceeded cautiously into the bedroom. Spotting the perfectly made bed and the device, along with the note on the table next to Kathryn's side of the bed, Seven tapped her communicator and said, "Computer, locate Captain Janeway."

"Captain Janeway is in her Ready Room."

"How long has Captain Janeway been in her Ready Room?"

"Nine hours, twenty-two minutes and eleven seconds."

"Computer, is Captain Janeway logged on for duty?"

"Affirmative."

"How long has Captain Janeway been logged on for duty?"

"Nine hours, twenty-one minutes and twenty-one seconds."

The Borg sighed heavily and walked over to the nightstand, picking up the medical device. Then spinning, she quickly left the cabin and headed for Sickbay, since she had promised to return the instrument in the morning. After exiting the turbolift on Deck Five, she walked quickly, feeling like she had more of a reason to proceed with greater speed and breezed into the ship's infirmary.

The ship's Astrometrics officer stopped for a minute to watch as two members of Ship's Maintenance replaced the broken window in the Doctor's office. When the hologram turned around, raised his eyebrows and came over to her with a fairly intrigued look on his face, Seven extended her arm, placing the silver cylinder in his waiting palm and stated, "Your dermal regenerator. I was unable to devise a way to increase this device's efficiency."

As the Borg spun and started out of the room, the Doctor said, puzzled, "Seven…if you need more time…it's not a problem."

Seven of Nine turned around and informed, "It is not a priority at the moment, Doctor. When I have adequate time to analyze the device further, I will inform you. Thank you for your assistance." Then turning again, she walked out quickly before he could stop her, heading again for the turbolift, determined to get to the captain and wake her up before she was jolted out of her regeneration by someone else. Although, Seven knew that it wasn't certain that Janeway was asleep, she was fairly sure that she had indeed 'accidently' fallen asleep as she did two nights previous.

Having to wait a moment for the turbolift, Seven raised her eyebrow when the door opened revealing Ensign Harry Kim who brightened immediately at her presence. Stepping inside, she said, "Ensign Kim."

"Hi, Seven," Kim said, stepping aside and making room for the blonde. "Where are you off to this morning?"

"I must speak with the captain in her office," Seven stated. Then looking over at him, she asked, "What is your destination?"

"Bridge," Kim said, letting the turbolift start back up again. "Thought I'd get a jump on the day…guess the captain did too?"

Ignoring the comment, Seven turned, facing forward and said nothing, waiting for the doors to part in front of her. When they did, she stepped out, pretending not to hear Kim's sigh and proceed to the door on the lower deck that led to the captain's office. When the ensign on duty informed her the captain did not wish to be disturbed, Seven did not stop to acknowledge the warning, opened the door herself as she had done many times in the past, without announcing herself and proceeded inside. She did halt however when the captain, who was seated at her desk working at her workstation, turned her head toward her door in surprise and clear disapproval.

Placing her hands behind her back, Seven said quickly, "I apologize, Captain. I should have announced myself. Do you wish me to leave?"

Clearing her throat, Janeway said, turning all the way toward Seven, somewhat irritated, "Well, since you're already in my office…why don't you tell me what's on your mind?" When the stoic blonde furrowed her brow slightly and paused, Janeway asked, "Seven…did you have something to say?"

"I did not," the ex-drone answered with haste, but sans the emotion she was feeling. "I apologize for disturbing you. It will not happen again, Captain. Good day."

As Seven started to turn, Janeway said with authority standing, and coming around her desk, "Stop…right there. Seven…if you didn't have something to say, why did you barge in here?" Coming up to her, she said, "I'm used to you not knocking…but I'm not used to you not having a reason for doing so."

Sighing, Seven turned around and informed, "I was under the impression that you were regenerating, Captain. My purpose here was to inform you of the time so that you would not be startled by another individual. That is why I did not utilize the door call."

"Oh," allowed the captain. "Then…why didn't you just hail me?"

"I wished to see you," Seven said quietly. "I did not want to wake you in such a manner." Frowning clearly, Seven said, her voice shattered, now full of emotion, "You are upset. I am failing you." Then hardening instantly, she cracked, starting for the door again, "This is unacceptable! I must assimilate more data."

"Seven of Nine," Janeway called out in a relatively quiet, compassionate, but clear voice.

Stopping before she reached the door and it opened, sensing her presence, the Borg said, her back to the captain, "Yes, Captain?"

Janeway walked up to the tall blonde's back and stood right behind her, but did not attempt touch and said, her voice the same, "You're not failing me and you're not unacceptable." When Seven did not turn around, the captain requested, more lovingly and personal, "Darling, would you please turn around so that I can see you?"

Turning around instantly, Seven wrapped her arms around Janeway with inhuman speed, lifted her up like a child and said, "Kathryn, I am 'sorry'. I feel as though I do not know how to act. It is difficult…but I will adapt. I love you. There is nothing that I would not do for you, except harm you."

Being held up easily, Janeway wrapped her arms around Seven's neck and said back, "Please stop apologizing, sweetheart. You haven't done anything wrong." When Seven's enhanced arm moved to her bottom to help keep the captain in the air, Janeway wrapped her legs around Seven's hips and asked, kissing her cheek, "Darling, why are you carrying me?"

"I am uncertain," Seven answered. "I felt that is was necessary, however. Do you wish for me to release you?"

"Only if you can't hold me up," Janeway admitted, pressing herself against the tall woman's chest and embracing her tightly, sighing. "Am I too heavy now?"

Speaking surely, the ex-drone replied, "It will take much more than the loss of my abdominal implant to keep me from embracing you in this manner, my beautiful Kathryn."

"You're such a sweet talker," Janeway smiled into the blonde's neck. "But, why don't you put me down before someone walks in on us, huh? You're not the only one who has forgotten to knock before."

"As you wish," Seven answered. Then cupping Janeway's face, she asked, "Would it be acceptable to kiss you?"

The redhead took Seven's hand and kissed it, explaining, "Let me go brush my teeth…I've been drinking coffee all night." Walking toward the bathroom, Janeway said, yawning and rubbing her neck, "Why don't you sit down and have breakfast with me…or did you need to go?"

"I am not required to be anywhere else until 0900 hours."

From the bathroom, Janeway asked as the put some toothpaste on her brush, "What's going on then?"

Since Seven of Nine did not think it was necessary to yell, she came up to the bathroom door and responded, looking inside as Janeway started brushing her teeth, "B'Elanna Torres, the Doctor and I will be testing the modifications we made to my alcove."

After spitting out the contents of her mouth and rinsing, Janeway sighed, looking into the mirror at her face and frowning at the haggard appearance staring back at her, "That's today? Did I just forget, or hadn't you updated me?"

"It is of no consequence," the blonde informed, stepping into the bathroom, standing behind Janeway and placing her hands on her shoulders.

Looking at Seven's reflection, the captain smiled ruefully, leaning back into Seven's comforting chest and said, "That means I forgot. I'm sorry…did you need me to be there?"

"Your presence is not required," Seven informed. "If our efforts are successful, then I will spend three hours regenerating. If they are not, we will be required to continue our work. I believe the modifications will work, however." Touching the captain's chin, Seven said, "You are beautiful on this day."

"Seven...I look like hell," the captain replied quickly, pursing her lips some.

"You are always beautiful to me," Seven came back, equally fast and sure. Then leaning down, she put her head on Janeway's shoulder and smirked, looking in the mirror, "Is another experiment required?"

Janeway laughed once, unable to resist her lover's charm and said turning her face toward the blonde, "No…and thank you." Then turning around and putting her palms on Seven's upper chest, Janeway asked, "Have you had breakfast already?"

"No. May I kiss you now?" Looking out the door and then back to Janeway, Seven said, "I do not believe anyone will witness the event from this location."

Smiling, Janeway whispered, "I think that would be acceptable."

Seven leaned down, wrapped Janeway up and kissed her sweetly on the mouth. After a few moments, as the kiss grew somewhat more passionate, the captain pressing more of her body into Seven and bringing her hand up to the back of her neck, informing her to not stop, Seven picked Janeway up again in the same manner as before, the captain instantly wrapping her legs around her thin waist this time and settled them against the wall.

When the captain became rigid, now that she was pressed to the wall, Seven pulled her head back and asked, "Are you uncomfortable?"

Sighing, irritated at herself for feeling confined when she knew that if Seven had performed this action a week ago, she would have been breathing heavily by now, Janeway shook her head and said before she kissed Seven again, trying to force herself to get over it, "No, darling…kiss me."

The blonde pulled her lips away again and continued, "There is no need for you to 'push' yourself at this time. Are you uncomfortable in this position?"

Hugging Seven, not able to look at her face as she confessed, Janeway whispered, "Yes," but did not elaborate as to why.

Seven instantly moved Janeway away from the wall and said, "Then we will adapt." Sitting down on the commode, letting the captain straddle her legs as she unwrapped them, Seven asked as she settled into their new position that kept their bodies still close together, but gave the captain the feeling of being in control and able to back away at any time, "Is this acceptable?"

The captain pulled away from Seven's neck and said looking down, clearing her throat of emotion, "Yes…thank you." Then looking up, she ran her knuckles over Seven's cheek and said, softly, "Oh…I've missed you. I know things have been…unsettled lately…but we'll get back to normal." Rubbing her thin, intelligent thumbs over the woman's alabaster checks, Janeway smiled warm and small and said, "Do you know how very much I love you?" Kissing her fairly quickly, she rubbed her nose against the blonde's while she informed, "I love you bigger than all the stars, in all the galaxies, in all the universe."

Cocking her eyebrow, Seven replied, "That is a great deal, my Kathryn. However, I love you 'bigger' than all the stars, in all the galaxies, in all the universe…plus one." When Janeway chuckled, knowing she was always going to be out done when it came to the Borg, Seven said, grabbing the captain's hand and kissing her knuckles, remembering that such an action always made the captain's eyes twinkle and swirl into their crisp indigo hue, "I believe that we are required to consume our nutritional supplements at this time." Touching the captain's face, Seven explained, "You do not mass as much as you normally do, which is not a great deal to begin with. Your face is thinner than it usually is."

"I thought you liked me trim?" asked Janeway, pouting a little.

"Kathryn," Seven said, standing them up and letting Janeway slide off of her legs, "if you grow much 'trimmer' you will cease to exist." Ushering the small captain out of the bathroom, Seven explained, "You are losing muscle mass, not body fat…there is a difference."

Rolling her eyes, Janeway clipped letting Seven get the 'food' and going over to the sofa, "Really? I had no idea."

Seven ignored the woman's sarcasm and stated, bringing two supplements and fresh cup of coffee for Janeway, not able to keep herself from doing so since she knew that sometimes, coffee was the only thing that could make the captain smile, and reported, "I have been pondering our living arrangement, and our discussion about developing a routine. Now that my abdominal implant is gone, I am beginning to feel somewhat lethargic. I am certain that after my regeneration cycle today, that will be remedied...however, I believe that it would be beneficial for me to develop an exercise routine to strengthen my endurance level."

Setting the glasses down and sitting next to Janeway, who was leaned back with her feet on the coffee table, rubbing her forehead, obviously exhausted, Seven continued, handing the captain her coffee first by setting it in her lap and holding it there until Janeway reached down for it, "I would enjoy it if we could do this together. I believe it would help us develop a routine…one that is away from our quarters and our duties."

Sipping her coffee, Janeway questioned, "Well, what did you have in mind? I've never been a big fan of traditional exercise methods."

"I am aware that you prefer to use games such as Velocity and other 'outdoor' activities to keep up your strength...however, perhaps we could set up a rotating schedule so that we not only exercise our whole body, but enjoy ourselves why we do it?"

Still not committed, Janeway queried, "Like what?"

"I definitely wish to keep Velocity as part of the rotation since I enjoy 'playing' with you…for many reasons," Seven said, nodding and then sipping her drink. When Janeway smirked a little and raised her eyebrow, signaling that Seven should explain, the Borg took the glass away from her lips and continued, "You are a formidable opponent. You smile and laugh often while we 'play'…and you are extremely attractive in the garments you wear while we 'play.'" Smirking, Seven stated, "Red is my favorite color, Kathryn."

"I know it is, Seven," Janeway came back, informing her that perhaps she had chosen that outfit for that reason long before they ever professed their feelings for each other.

"Indeed," Seven smiled. Then continuing on, she said, "I also enjoy swimming…and would like to become a capable. There is still much for me to learn about the exercise." When Janeway nodded, agreeing, Seven went on, "I also believe it would be prudent to spend one day a week in the ship's gymnasium." Before Janeway could protest, the blonde stated quickly, "We could modify our activities in that room so that you do not feel as though you are doing to same thing consistently. We could use the weights, the treadmills and climbing devices, and we could also enhance our self-defense techniques."

Scrunching her face, Janeway said, "I'm definitely not a fan of being beat up…besides, Seven…I'm the captain…that's a very public place. I know it seems strange, but that place is for the crew, not for me. I don't want anyone to feel as though I'm trespassing on their territory." As Seven furrowed her brow, the captain set her coffee down, snatched up her supplement, feeling slightly sick to her stomach and hoping the thick drink would help settle it, explaining, "It's like the Mess Hall. I don't go there very often because I want the crew to feel like they have a place to be themselves. If I'm there, they feel less relaxed…more like they're supposed to act a certain way for fear that I won't approve, or they try to make a good impression. It's natural for them to feel that way…and it's part of living in a command structure."

"I understand this," Seven replied. "However, I believe you underestimate you crew's ability to see the difference in our situation. This is our home…not just your ship. You should be entitled to use the facilities as a member of this Collective. I believe the crew would benefit from your presence." When the captain looked less than convinced at that, Seven offered, "I know that you are not aware of this, but the majority of this crew like you as an individual…not just as its captain. Your presence is comforting to a great many aboard. The mood often changes when you are around…and not in the 'way' you believe. It is different aboard Voyager, I am certain. This crew enjoys seeing you operate as in individual."

Sighing, Janeway said, "I'll agree that I'm a fairly likable person…but one thing you have to remember is that it's not as important that my crew like me, as it is that they respect me…as their captain. That's all that matters. That's what gives them the ability to follow orders without question, often putting their lives in danger…because they believe that I put them before me. They don't need a friend, Seven…they need a captain. It's dangerous to try and be both…emotions become involved and many problems can arise." Patting her on the leg, she said, "Not everyone is as good as separating professional and personal as you are…and I think that even you have some difficulty with it." Then nodding, she added, "And it's hard for me sometimes too."

"It is difficult sometimes…but I am in love with you. I do not see how it would aversely affect the crew if you were to utilize the ship's gymnasium one day a week. It is likely that you would interact with a very small percentage them."

"That's probably true, but I still feel like they would put off by it. It's just not a very captain-like thing to do."

Seven looked away for a minute, and then finally offered, "Perhaps we should conduct an experiment? How do you feel about jogging?"

"I like to jog…why?"

"Let us utilize the decks of this ship as our 'track,'" Seven explained. "Many of the crew do so, and even though it is a 'public domain,' it is not possible for them to feel as though you are 'trespassing' on their space since you are often found walking in the corridors. We will test the reaction. If you find that it is acceptable…that your crew does not try to befriend you as you jog…then we will move once to the gymnasium. If the reaction changes, then we will not utilize that location during our routine, and I will simply accompany B'Elanna Torres and Nicole Fowler there on a separate day."

"You want me to jog through the decks?"

"Perhaps once you feel up to it, we could also utilize the Jefferies Tube ladders to further our routine?"

Her muscles aching already at the thought of climbing the ship's endless series of ladders, Janeway asked, sipping her drink, "Are you trying to convince me to exercise with you…or scare me into saying no so you have an excuse to go beat up on my pilot in the gym?"

Understanding that the captain was being sarcastic, Seven explained, "We will start out 'light.' We can exercise three days a week…only jogging once a week, or more often when we cannot acquire holodeck time." Sliding up next to Janeway, Seven put her arm around her, and pulled her into the crook of her arm, asking, "Do you prefer to exercise before or after your duty-shift?"

"Before…it's too easy for me to lose track of time once the day begins. Is that okay with you?"

"I prefer to leave my evenings open as well," Seven responded. "Also, since B'Elanna Torres will not reside with us, and has a comfortable routine of her own in the morning, it will not take away from the time we all require to spend together."

Sighing, Janeway said, "Well…every year I tell myself that I'll find time to work in a more consistent exercise routine, so I guess, now that I have a partner, I don't have an excuse any longer?" Patting Seven's leg again, she said, "Let's do it. When do we start?"

"Tomorrow…unless I am unable to regenerate…then we will have to wait until we find a solution."

Clearing her throat, Janeway said, "If we start tomorrow…we'll never get holodeck time. Does that mean you plan on dragging my ass out of the deck?"

"That is correct."

Janeway laughed once and warned, "Okay, but don't be surprised if I ask you to carry me halfway through."

Seven kissed the captain's temple and stated, even though she knew the captain was being facetious since Janeway was in relatively good shape, "I will not unduly tax you. You may set the pace and inform me when you become fatigued." Then putting her hand to the captain's supplement, of which she had only consumed a small amount, Seven stated, "You must drink this, and eat at least once more today. You must also return home at a reasonable hour and regenerate. If you do not do so, we will not begin tomorrow."

"Yes, Mom."

Leaning on one arm, dozing, the captain's head snapped up as someone announced their presence at her office door. Reaching for her coffee, she groaned, "Come in," and then proceed to take a healthy swing, scrunching her face when it was practically room temperature. Glancing at the clock as her visitor entered, she sighed, realizing at that she had been snoozing off and on for over an hour. Managing a half smile as Lieutenant Torres walked into her Ready Room, the captain said when the doors closed, "Business or otherwise?"

"Both…if that's okay?" Torres answered, coming up to the desk and stopping in front of it, forcing herself not to make a comment or notice the dark circles under her lover's blue-grey eyes.

Standing, rubbing her neck with both hands, Janeway allowed, "I hope the business part is good news, B'Elanna." Then blinking as she walked over to the front of her desk, starting for the sofa, just needing a change in scenery, Janeway asked, "Is this about Seven's alcove…how did that go?"

Smiling and following Janeway to the couch, Torres answered, "I'm happy to report that our resident Borg is currently recharging like a battery."

Flopping onto the sofa, unceremoniously, Janeway smiled as bright as she could and said, "That is good news…thank you, Chief…excellent work, as usual." Patting the sofa next to her, Janeway propped her arm up on the edge of the couch and asked, "Anything else…or can I stop and rest for a minute?"

Torres sat next to Janeway and leaned back with her, letting the captain put her arm around her and answered, "That's all…everything else is business as usual."

Placing her hand on Torres' neck, Janeway rubbed it gently as she let her head fall back and rest, saying, keeping her eyes closed, and yawning, "Mmm…that's good too…because I'm think I'm too tired to care." Then leaning into her engineer, Janeway rested her head on the woman's shoulder and said, softly, "I got your note, sweetheart…and I'm sorry for being so harsh. I wasn't mad at you…just startled." Sighing, she said, "I can't really explain it. I just hope you understand that it's wasn't you…or Seven that I was mad at." Moving her body and ending up with her head in the Klingon's lap, her face turned toward the brunette's body, Janeway said quietly, "I'm just tired, darling."

Stroking the captain's fine, auburn-kissed hair, Torres informed, "Red, you have nothing to be sorry about. You've been through hell this last week, and the two weeks before that weren't all that relaxing or stress-free either." Sighing, Torres admitted, "I'm sorry that I reacted the way I did to your…bruises. I should've been more understanding…it's not like it's any different than me insisting that the Doctor not fix me up when you mistook me for a scratching post." When Janeway exhaled once in rueful laughter, the chief placed her free hand on Janeway's hip, rubbing it gently and said, "I just…I can't stand to see you hurt. I know it's part of life and all that shit…but that doesn't mean that it doesn't burn me up." When Janeway turned her head and looked up at her, Torres smiled softly and finished, "You're my redheaded cowgirl…I can't help myself. Maybe it's a Klingon thing?"

"I don't think that reaction is limited to your mother's species, darling," Janeway smiled, nuzzling the Klingon's stomach with her cheek. "And no matter what I say…don't ever believe that I don't love that about you." Reaching down and grabbing Torres' hand, bringing it to her heart, Janeway asked, "Will you come stay with me tonight? I promise not to throw you out." Before Torres could answer, Janeway laughed once and said, "I'm under orders to return at a decent hour and complete a full regeneration cycle…and even though I'm sure I'll be out like a light…I feel better when you're there."

"I'll be there, Red…fuzzy slippers and all." Then rubbing Janeway's torso with her hand, B'Elanna reported, "Seven told me that you two are starting a new workout schedule tomorrow." Smiling, she explained, "She was, and I quote, 'very pleased that you and she could begin your fitness routine immediately.'"

Groaning some, Janeway said, "I think she's trying to kill me."

Laughing, Torres joked, "Maybe that was the Borg's Master Plan? Stick a hot drone on Voyager, have her seduce the captain, then talk her into exercising so she can die of natural causes…and take over the ship?"

Snickering, Janeway reminded, pinching the engineer's hand, "It's not very efficient." Then sighing, Janeway pushed herself up, saying, "Uh…I have to get up before I fall asleep." Then looking over at Torres, Janeway asked, smiling a little devilishly, "Darling, do you have some time…or must you get back?"

"I told Carey that I wouldn't be back until after lunch…wanna eat with me?"

"I'm not hungry yet…but thank you," Janeway replied. Rubbing her neck, she asked, "Would you mind treating me to one of those all-curing massages, though? I'm desperate."

Spreading her legs and pushing herself all the way back on the couch, Torres patted the spot and said, "Have a seat." When Janeway took off her tunic an eased herself between the chief's legs, she put her hands on the redhead's shoulders and asked, "Hard or soft?"

"Start out easy and work your way up."

As she started to rub Janeway's tense shoulders, not surprised at how stiff they were since she had performed this service several times now, Torres said as the captain groaned a little, "Hey, this time I don't have to tell you to shut up, 'cause I'm allowed to kiss you afterward."

Smiling, Janeway lulled her head forward and said, with her eyes closed, "Mmm…that's right. You know, we never really talked about what happened between us the first time you did this. What do you think brought all that on? Wasn't that the same day that you kissed me for the first time?"

"Kahless…I still can't believe I did that," Torres laughed. As she worked her hands a little harder into the captain's muscles, B'Elanna sighed, "Well, thanks to Tom, you know now that I was pretty crazy about you already, but I still had never really let myself do anything about it until that day. I don't know, Red…you were just so…you…and Christ, the way you looked every time you came out of the water. It was finally too much for me to resist. So, I kind of went a little out of my mind." Leaning in closer, she whispered as Janeway chuckled, "I remember the first time we did this…you were reading…or at least pretending to read."

"Pretending…almost the whole day," Janeway admitted.

"Right…so you were pretending to read, and I caught on at the end," Torres went on. "I wasn't sure what that meant really…maybe you were just distracted…or maybe you were excited? Anyway, when you put the book down and started enjoying the moment, I couldn't resist...so I started flirting." Sighing and kissing Janeway's shoulder quickly, she said, "Kathryn, when you flirted back with me…I thought I was going to have a heart attack…really. I was sure I was about to die…dead…the end."

"How do you think I felt? I'm your captain…you should have heard the things going through my head," Janeway laughed, softly. "But, no matter how much I yelled at myself…mmm…yes, that's good, darling…um, I couldn't stop."

"Then you said things like that," Torres said, her massage now focusing solely on Janeway's neck, "and I totally freaked and stopped the whole thing…of course, until later." Sighing, B'Elanna chuckled and said, "Until you looked at me that way you do when you're not being her...the captain…when you're just being you…and it was nice. There was a fire, a blanket, the stars…your lips. I've never kissed anyone like that before...just like that...right away, I mean. I remember realizing what I was doing, and thinking…this is the end of my life…she's going to hate me…but then you kissed me back. That was a really nice first kiss."

"Mmm…yes…it was…mmm…that's nice what you're doing."

"Do you think we would have…um…done more if those coyotes didn't show up?"

Janeway lulled her head forward again, and answered, grabbing Torres' thighs and rubbing them gently, "I'm not sure I would have slept with you…although, mmm…it is definitely possible…but I think more would have occurred before my mind caught up to me." As Torres' hands moved away from her neck and started down her back, causing Janeway to hiss lightly in pleasure, she said, biting her lip some, "Lanna…can I tell you something without it meaning anything…mmm…other than what it is? God, that feels so good…"

"You can tell me anything."

Janeway let her head fall back and said into the air, "You drive me absolutely crazy…mmm…I can't tell you how much you always…mmm yes, right there, darling…manage to turn me on. I don't know what it is…mmm…but no one affects me like you do." Pressing her back toward Torres' hands, she said, "Even now, when I'm tired and really not myself…all you have to do is…god…put your hands on me…and all I can think about is…mmm...sssssex."

Torres smiled brightly, flattered beyond belief because she totally understood that what Janeway was saying didn't take away from their love, but only added to it, and said, working her way back up Janeway's shoulders, "I'm glad you feel that way." Then whispering in her ear, she said, "This feeling it completely mutual…but I think you already know that. No one gets me like you, Kathryn…you're lucky I get any work done around this joint at all."

"Lanna?"

"Red."

"Will you make love to me…soon?" asked the captain quietly. "Not tonight…mmm…but soon?" Grabbing Torres' hands and putting them on her stomach, leaning all the way back against her lover, Janeway explained, "I love being with you…it's so wonderful. I want to feel that way again." Kissing one of Torres hands, she said, "I need you to touch me…remind me that it's okay. I want you to put your hands on me…I don't want to be scared of that."

Holding Janeway close, Torres kissed her cheek sweetly and whispered, shocked and surprised, "Kathryn...of course, baby...I'll make love to you whenever you want me to." Squeezing her, the Klingon admitted, "I'm…surprised that you're asking me, though." Explaining, she said softly, "I just assumed that…well, that you'd want Seven to help you through that…since you and she…well, you just help each other. You know what I'm talking about, right?"

"Yes, but I can't ask Seven to do that, darling," Janeway informed. "As much as I love and cherish her, I don't think she's ready to be in control in bed yet…and right now, as easy as it would be for me to just take over and make love that way…I know that that's not what I need right now." Snuggling, she said, "I need someone who is confident in those things…someone I don't have to guide or explain anything to. Besides, that's not the only reason I'm asking you…I love you. When you touch me, like you're touching me now…it feels right to let you lead. I like that you have that power over me…because you are so very gentle with it." Then chuckling a little, she admitted, "And even though I feel like part of me has been completely turned upside down…you still very much turn me on…some things never change." Shaking her head, she said quickly, swallowing so she could speaking clearly, "I don't want to turn this into some big event…I just want to be with you."

"Well, being with you is always a big event in my book," Torres replied, kissing her cheek and trying to bring the conversation back to a happier tone, "but I understand. Don't worry about it, Red. I'll take care of it…and we'll just let it happen like it's supposed to." Rocking the captain a little from side to side, Torres laughed, "And, I swear to god, if we're interrupted this time…I really am going to hurt someone."

Chuckling, Janeway sighed, "You and me both." Then groaning as her door call sounded, Janeway said, pushing herself to her feet and grabbing her tunic quickly, "Hold that thought." Then zipping up as Torres made her position on the couch look a little less relaxed, Janeway said coming up to the steps, preparing to send whoever it was away quickly, "Come in."

Although, when Naomi Wildman appeared in the doorway and stepped in, all Janeway could do was smile and greet her pleasantly, "Miss Wildman, please come in." Then looking at Torres quickly, nodding her head to B'Elanna, letting her know that they would have to continue later, Janeway said, walking down the steps, "How are you…I haven't see you for a while?"

"I'm fine, Captain…thank you," Naomi said politely. Then looking over at Torres, who was standing, she asked, "Do you want me to come back later?"

Answering for the captain, Torres said, coming up to the girl and rubbing her head affectionately, "Don't worry about it, shortcake…I gotta run anyhow." Then turning to Janeway, she said in a business-like tone, "Thank you, Captain…and don't worry about a thing…I'll take care of it personally."

Nodding once, Janeway responded, "I'm sure you will. Thank you, Chief." Once B'Elanna left, Janeway said to Naomi as she went over to her replicator to gather the needed refreshments she had promised, "Have a seat."

"Captain," the youngster questioned, taking the last cookie after the captain insisted, "do you think Dorothy loved Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion because she knew they were her friends? I mean…sometimes I dream about my friends…like Seven…and she looks different, but I still know it's her. Do you think Dorothy knew?"

Leaned back with her feet propped up on her coffee table, and her small lucky tea cup balanced in her hands on her lap, which, thankfully, had been in her bathroom and survived Deck One's decompression, Janeway squinted her eyes a little, titling her head, clearly pondering the question, and finally replied, "No. I don't think she knew…not until afterward. I think she truly loved them as her new friends. You don't think so?"

"I think that she didn't know who they were too," Naomi Wildman answered. Then taking a sip of her sugared tea as the captain did so, she said, "But, I don't understand how she loved them? She just met them."

"Well," Janeway started, trying to choose her words carefully, "part of it is because it's a fantasy, but," the captain smiled, "sometimes, Naomi, people meet once…and that's all it takes, and they're friends forever. Sometimes people just click…for whatever reason."

"Like you and Seven?"

Janeway looked down at her glass quickly, surprised by the comparison, and responded, "Well…sort of." Looking over at the girl, Janeway whispered, "Seven and I didn't always get along as well as we do now." Then speaking louder, she explained, "But yes, Seven and I are a good example, I suppose. Although, Seven is a member of my crew…I brought her here…so there was a certain amount of obligation for me to make sure she was as comfortable as possible. Still, I was always intrigued by her…since she was human and then assimilated by the Borg. Her point of view…her story…was always important to me…from the beginning…even when we were on the Borg Cube when we first met."

"I was scared of Seven when we first met," Naomi admitted, looking somewhat ashamed of that. Then brightening, she said, "But once Mommy and Neelix told me that she wasn't a bad Borg…I wasn't scared anymore. I'm so glad Seven's not a bad Borg anymore…she's my best friend." Setting her cup down, the girl said, "When Mommy was reading about how Dorothy met Lion, and how he scared her, but then she realized he wasn't bad, just scared too, it reminded me of Seven. I'm glad you brought Seven here, Captain."

"So am I, Miss Wildman," Janeway smiled brightly. Then setting her cup down and picking up the old, leather bound book and rubbing the cover, the captain said, "Well, since you've done such a wonderful job taking care of this for me…and since you obviously put a lot of thought into our discussion…would you like to read another book? I don't have a lot that you're old enough to read yet…but I think there are a few in my collection that aren't too advanced for you."

Swinging her legs more, excited, the girl's blue eyes twinkled as she answered, "Oh yes, Captain…thank you. And I can read any book…Mommy can help me with the big words."

Chuckling, Janeway explained, "I'm sure you could, dear…but what I meant was that most of the books in my collection aren't something you should read until you're a little older…more grown up."

"Oh," Naomi said seriously, nodding. "You mean they talk about things that 'aren't appropriate for little girl's ears.' That's what my mommy says to me whenever she makes me go into the bedroom and play after dinner and we have people over. Captain, when will I be grown up enough to read all of your books?"

Having a really hard time not laughing at herself for putting her foot in her mouth and not anticipating this line of questioning, which made her a little uncomfortable since Naomi wasn't her child, she answered, "Well, I think that's probably something that you and your mother should decide." Then standing and picking up the tea set, she said, "But, I think I have a few that you can read now, and I know that there are many, many books in the ship's database. They're not bound books, like that one, but you can still read them…and we can still talk about them. And, then when you get older, and your mother says it's okay, you can read some of my other ones. They're all very old, but I think they're still wonderful."

As Janeway went back over to the replicator, Naomi asked, "Captain, when we get back to Earth…will you still let me read your books?"

"Absolutely," Janeway came back without hesitation. "Even if we get back tomorrow…you can always call me and tell me that you need another one." Turning around, Janeway came up to the railing and leaned on it, speaking reassuringly, feeling that the girl was somewhat frightened of returning home, since it really wasn't her home, having been born on Voyager, "We might not see each other as often…or even live on the same planet…but that doesn't mean we can't keep in touch."

When Naomi still looked somewhat forlorn, Janeway put on her best captain's face and changed the subject, knowing her next question would substantially brighten the girl's mood, "Now, before I dismiss you…there's one more matter I think we should discuss, Miss Wildman. The captain's assistant position…tell me, what does your mother think of that?"

Standing up immediately, Naomi reported, placing her hands behind her back and smiling, "Mommy says that as long as I keep up with my studies and keep my room clean, and am home in time for dinner, and only if you are agreeable…that I can do it. She says that I'm not supposed to ask you about it though because you're a very busy woman…and that it's not nice to bother you."

Janeway walked around, back up to the sofa and sat down next to the young girl who kept standing, but turned to face her, saying, "Okay…so, why do you want to be my assistant?"

"Because I want to be a captain when I grow up," the strawberry blonde girl replied immediately. "I want to be just like you, Captain Janeway."

Crossing her arms over her chest as she leaned back, crossing her legs as well, Janeway kept her flattery hidden and said, seriously, "Being the captain of a starship is a very important job, Miss Wildman. It's not for everyone, you know?"

"Oh, I know, Captain," she informed, completely serious. "You've got to keep your shirt tucked in…and you have to go down with the ship…and you're never supposed to abandon a member of your crew."

Impressed that the girl had taken to heart what Janeway had told her when she had requested a meeting with the captain after Seven had 'rejoined' the Collective, the captain nodded once and said, "Okay…now tell me why you think I need an assistant?"

"Because you're a very busy woman, Captain…and I could help you do things."

"What kinds of things did you have in mind?"

Bouncing once, Naomi spoke as if she's been waiting her whole life to have this conversation, "I could help remind you of special things…like when Neelix is having a party, or when your birthday is coming up so you're not surprised like the last time, and when other people's birthday's are. I have a very good memory, Captain...Mommy always says so. And I could bring reports to you, and take them to other parts of the ship. I could find out things for you…I'm very good at finding out things, Captain."

Janeway chuckled soundlessly, and said, "I'm sure you are, Miss Wildman." Then nodding, Kathryn stood up and said, "Okay, then…let's go over to my desk and figure out what your first assignment should be, huh? We'll call it a test…to see if this is something that you really want to do, alright?"

"Aye, Captain," Naomi said, following Janeway and keeping her excitement reigned in, doing her best to remain stoic and professional like Seven always was. Sitting down at the chair in front of the captain's desk once Janeway told her she should do so, the girl remained silent as the women accessed her computer and gave the matter some contemplation.

Not finding anything right away that she wanted to give the girl to do since most of it was absolutely boring, just taking reports back and forth, and Janeway was bound and determined to make this somewhat fun for the girl since part of the captain always felt terribly guilty that she was being raised on a ship so far away from home where there weren't any other children for her to play with, the captain got an idea, turned to the girl and asked, resting her hands on her desk, "Miss Wildman, do you think you could find out for me what Seven of Nine wants for her birthday? It's not for a several weeks, and I have a few ideas, but I'd like to really surprise her with something extra special." Sighing, Janeway said, "And as you know…Seven doesn't usually think about special things that she'd like to have just for herself."

Ecstatic, Naomi stood up and said, "Yes, Captain…I'll get right on it!"

Holding up her graceful index finger, Janeway reminded, "Now remember…this is supposed to be a surprise…so you can't just ask her or she'll figure it out. You've got to be…subtle."

"Oh, I understand, Captain," Naomi turned serious again. "I'll be sneaky. I won't tell her that I'm on a special assignment."

"Okay…and you've got to promise me that you won't let this interfere with your studies or your other tasks…those always come first…no exceptions."

Nodding furiously, Naomi replied, "Yes, Ma'am…I understand."

"Alright," Janeway smiled. "Why don't you come back tomorrow after your classes and pick up your next book? Then we can talk more about when you should report for duty…and make certain you tell your mother everything we've discussed, and tell her to come see me if she has any questions."

"Yes, Captain."

"Thank you, Miss Wildman…for returning my book undamaged and for the insightful conversation. I look forward to working with you. Dismissed."

Placing her hands behind her back, Naomi turned and walked out the door, but before she exited and looked over her shoulder, smiled brightly and waved goodbye to the captain. As soon as the doors were closed, the youngster darted up the stairs, no longer able to control her excitement and ran into the turbolift preparing to go find Seven of Nine and tell her all about her tea time with the captain, but reminding herself that she couldn't give away her special assignment. Filled with a sense of responsibility like she had never felt before, and overwhelmed with glee, the young girl bounced as she waited for the turbolift to deposit her on Deck Five. Once the doors parted for her, Naomi pranced down the corridor, smiling proudly and looking at everyone that past her as if they were her coworkers now, and not just neighbors. Coming into Astrometrics, Naomi took a deep breath and said as Seven of Nine turned and looked over her shoulder at the sound of the doors opening, "Hi, Seven…can I come in?"

"Naomi Wildman," Seven stated, turning fully around and looking rather pleased for a woman who really rarely smiled anything more than a smirk or a toothless grin, "you may enter." Noticing the flash of white teeth and the flushed cheeks of her friend, Seven inquired, turning back to her task, "You are pleased. What has occurred?"

The girl came up next to Seven and reported, standing erect and mimicking the Borg, "I've just had tea and cookies with the captain. We talked about The Wizard of Oz, and she said that I can come by tomorrow and pick up another book to read."

Seven nodded and titled her head, asking, "It was an enjoyable time then?"

"Oh yes! I think the captain is so…neat," Naomi said, enthused. Then turning serious as she tended to do, she stated, "She's very smart, Seven. What does 'insightful' mean?"

Before Seven answered, she asked, "What were the captain's specific words?"

"She said 'thank you for returning my book undamaged and for the insightful conversation.'"

"The captain was informing you that she thought that what you had said during your discussion was intelligent, well thought out, and it gave her something to think about with regards to you in particular," Seven explained. "Insightful means to give insight…or to give someone information, or another point of view on a particular subject. It is a compliment." Then turning back to the sensor board, Seven smirked somewhat and said, never once tiring of talking about Kathryn, "Regarding the captain's intelligence…you are correct. She is a most intelligent individual. She is well versed in many things academic, as well as social customs, art and history." Looking back at Naomi who was nodding in agreement and smiling, Seven said, "She is a more than acceptable mentor. Have you given more thought to attempting to become her assistant? I believe she would be a good influence on you, as she has been for me."

"Yes," Naomi said, trying to think of how to explain the situation. "We talked about that too…but I didn't ask her…honest."

"I believe you. What was discussed?"

"She's given me an assignment as a test to make sure that I really want to be her assistant," answered Naomi. "And I do…but those were her orders, so I didn't say anything."

Seven smirked slightly and nodded, acknowledging, "That was correct. She is captain. What is your assignment?"

Swallowing, then straightening, the girl answered, "I can't tell you…it's a secret assignment."

"Indeed. Then I will not inquire further. It is important to maintain the captain's trust," Seven said, raising her eyebrow and then turning back to her work. Stepping around the girl and going over to another board, the ex-Borg asked, changing the subject, "How are your studies?"

Rolling her eyes and huffing, Naomi questioned, "Seven, why do you always ask me that?"

"It is important. If you wish to be the captain's assistant, you must keep up with your studies." The tall blonde turned around and said, looking down, "As you stated, the captain is very 'smart.' She requires a 'smart' assistant."

Renewed, Naomi responded, telling herself that she was going to start studying extra hard now that she realized that the captain needed her to be very smart, "They're good. I got to spend time with Mommy and Ensign Wang in the Science Lab today looking at…mitoc…mitochont…ria under the microscope."

"Mitochondria," Seven corrected, but not condescendingly. "What did you learn about Mitochondria?"

"They're part of a cell," informed the child. "They have DNA in them…and something called enzymes." Then thinking for a minute, she snapped her fingers and finished, "And they help provide energy for the cell…so that it can work."

"You are correct," Seven informed, knowing that any further, more detailed information would be too advanced for the child to understand and remember. "Is Science still your preferred subject?"

"Yes, but now that I'm reading the captain's books…I can't wait to take more reading classes so that I can learn how to read them all by myself." Leaning on the console and kicking her feet backward once at a time, she asked, "Seven, do you think the captain would like to teach me sometime? She's so well at reading…she said a lot of things about the story that I didn't think about."

"She's so 'good' at reading," Seven corrected the child, again. "I believe the captain's current duties would keep her from being able to instruct you on a consistent basis, Naomi Wildman. However, perhaps you should consider the time you spend with her discussing the books you read as part of your studies?" Then turning around, Seven continued, "Now that I am residing in the captain's quarters, perhaps you could come by from time to time and read with the captain during the evening? She often reads after her duty shift. I do not believe she would be disagreeable. You could also seek her advice with regards to your science projects…the captain is a scientist as well."

"NEAT!" Naomi exclaimed, running up to Seven. "You're so lucky, Seven! How come you get to stay with the captain? I thought you were going to get your own quarters?"

Raising her eyebrow at the query, pondering how to explain it appropriately, Seven informed, "That is correct. I am fortunate to be able to reside with the captain." Then looking away for a moment, then back at the girl, Seven explained, "The captain and I are compatible and have agreed that there is no need for me to dwell in my own quarters."

"Wow, Seven…that's so neat!" Then thinking for a second, she asked, "Does that mean that we can't have sleepovers?"

"No," the blonde answered, turning back to her task. "The captain and I have discussed this. On the evenings that we regenerate together, the captain will merely regenerate elsewhere. She is not disagreeable."

"Maybe she'll want to sleepover with us?"

"That is unlikely," Seven stated. "Although the captain would undoubtedly find your company pleasant, her position requires that she refrain from…certain activities. Sleepovers are one of them."

"How come?"

Sighing, Seven explained, "It is difficult to explain. She is very important, and must treat each of her crew equally. If she were to accept your request to sleepover with you…she would feel obligated to sleepover with anyone else that asked her to do so. She is a busy individual…and is required to regenerate so that she can continue to function as captain. Sleepovers, as you have described them, have little to do with regeneration…correct?"

Naomi nodded and said, "Yea…we're supposed to stay up late. I guess that would be bad…if everyone wanted the captain to sleep over…she's never get to sleep, and that would be bad."

"That is correct," Seven said quickly, thankful that she was able to explain the concept of the captain's position in such a way that Naomi would understand. "As you are aware, the captain is popular. She would undoubtedly receive many sleepover requests if the crew were to find out that she was agreeable to them."

"Well, I won't tell anyone that I get to sleepover in the captain's quarters…even if she isn't there," Naomi said seriously. "I don't want the captain to be bothered…Mommy says that I shouldn't bother her."

"You should not."

"Seven?"

"Yes."

"Where are you going to regenerate?"

Seven walked to the other sensor board, trying to dodge the question and reported, "My alcove has been modified to allow me to utilize it again. I will continue to regenerate in Cargo Bay Two."

"Then how come you're staying with the captain? You never stayed with her before..."

Feeling a little nervous, the ex-drone replied, "Due to the removal of my abdominal implant, I am also required to regenerate by sleeping. I require a place to perform this function. I will sleep in the captain's quarters."

The young girl sat down on the steps the led up to the dais and asked, "So, where are you going to sleep?" Excited, she asked quickly, "Are you going to get your own room like me?"

"No, the captain and I will utilize the same room. It is large enough for both of us to dwell within."

"Wow…NEAT!" Naomi said, bouncing. "That's so neat, Seven…you get to sleep in the captain's room!"

"That is correct."

After a few more moments of professing her thoughts on how exciting that was, Naomi grew a little quiet as Seven continued to work, and finally questioned, "Seven, does that mean that you love the captain…like my Mommy loves my Daddy?"

Seven sighed, feeling rather defeated, and said quietly, "Naomi Wildman, can you understand that I should not discuss such matters regarding the captain unless she initiates the conversation? It is not proper to discuss the captain's private life without her approval."

"It's like a secret assignment…you can't talk about it?"

Cocking her eyebrow, surprised and thankful Naomi had given her something to latch on to, Seven responded, "That is correct. It is similar."

"Then I won't ask anymore," Naomi repeated, the Borg's words. "It's important to keep the captain's trust."

"That is correct."

"Seven?"

"Yes."

Coming up to Seven and taking her hand, Naomi smiled and said, "I'm so glad the captain brought you here to Voyager."

"As am I, Naomi Wildman."

At 1800 hours the captain had finally caught up on all the work she had put to the back burner in the last two weeks due to Seven's procedure, the A.I., and the attack from the still unknown being that the captain had finally named officially Mister X. Dragging her body out of her desk chair, feeling like she had left a permanent mold in the leathered surface today, Janeway didn't bother picking up after herself, leaving the coffee cup and the empty bowl that had contained steamed rice and vegetables on her desk and walked slowly out of her Ready Room, rubbing her neck and yawning. Nodding to Tuvok who notoriously stayed on duty longer than required, informing him that she was done for the day and that he had the Bridge until he decided to turn it over to the Beta shift staff, the captain covered her mouth as another yawn came on as she entered the turbolift.

"Deck Three," she said in a husky, tired voice and once the doors closed, she leaned heavily against the back wall and sighed, beyond exhausted. Thankfully, the ride was short since she was certain that if she didn't reach her quarters shortly, she was going to have to request a intraship transport to get her there.

Exiting the carriage, Janeway walked slowly and somewhat crookedly toward her cabin that was at the very end of the final corridor. As she turned the final corner, she caught a glimpse of what could only have been the tall, sleek and toe-headed form of her Astrometrics officer entering their home, just ahead. The captain thought for a second about calling out to her, but not having the strength, and knowing that she would see her soon enough, Janeway continued on her way, keeping her head low as she continued to massage her neck with one hand. When she approached the door, still looking down, she had absolutely no time to react as the doors opened just a split second before she pressed her hand to the sensor.

Since Seven of Nine had not expected to see the captain directly in front the doors, she also had little time to react, and since she was walking with definite purpose, on her way to the captain's Ready Room to inform her that she was required to regenerate at this time, the tall, deceivingly heavy Borg plowed into the compact redhead, sending her backward, landing squarely on her rump.

Right after she was plopped on her bottom, Janeway looked up just in time to see Chakotay coming out of his quarters. As he noticed bodies in the hall, he automatically turned his head to investigate, and when his face flushed just a tad and a smile formed but was quickly hidden, albeit only partially, Janeway sighed, taking Seven's offered hand and spat to him as he approached, "You hush."

Pulling Janeway up, Seven said quickly, "Kathryn…I apologize. Are you damaged?"

"No…I'm fine," Janeway said, somewhat cranky, brushing off her bottom out of habit rather than need. Then turning to Chakotay who was doing his very best not to laugh, she smirked, "Oh, I bet you're just loving this?"

"What happened?" he asked, coming up to her and patting her on the back softly.

"Bad timing," Janeway explained, rubbing her neck again. "That will teach me to walk with my head down." Then looking up at Seven who was rather red faced, Janeway asked, "Seven…where were you off to…I just saw you walk in ahead of me?"

"My destination was your Ready Room," was all Seven said, hoping she didn't have to elaborate. "I am 'sorry.' I was not prepared to catch you. Are you certain you are undamaged?"

Patting the captain on the back, walking away, Chakotay said, "She's fine, Seven…she's greeted the deck much worse than that before. It's second nature to the captain…didn't you know?"

"Chakotay…remind me to move your quarters to the other end of this deck," Janeway said loudly as he left. Then turning toward Seven, Janeway informed, moving past her and into her quarters, "I'm not even going to ask why you were going to my Ready Room in such a hurry." Leaning heavily on her desk as she took off her boots and tunic, Janeway said over her shoulder as Seven came back into their habitat, "I hear that you were able to regenerate today?"

"That is correct," Seven answered, still feeling uneasy and having a hard time judging the captain's mood at this moment.

Walking to the bedroom lazily and still looking down, she asked, "Do you feel better?"

Seven followed the captain and answered, "I am no longer lethargic. I regenerated for three consecutive hours. The Doctor believes I will not be required to do so again for at five days, but said that if I felt the need, that it would not harm me to use my alcove at any time."

Collapsing onto the bed, Janeway mumbled into the pillow, "Mmm…I'm so glad, darling."

The ex-Borg sat on the bed next to the captain and said, placing her hand on Janeway's back, "Kathryn, you are depleted."

Janeway nodded her head and then rolled over, groaning a little. Looking over at Seven whose usual angelic face was creased with lines of worry, the captain exhaled, patting Seven's hand that was now on her stomach and reassured, "Sweetheart…I'll be fine. I just require a little regeneration of my own." Then yawning and stretching, Janeway informed, "But…I got all my work done that I had been putting off…so, if things stay quiet around here for a little while…we'll be able to work on that routine you keep talking about." Crossing her fingers, she sighed, "Keep your fingers crossed, huh?"

Familiar with the term, Seven crossed her two fingers that were on Janeway's stomach, and said, "I will comply. Do you require anything before you begin your regeneration cycle?"

Kathryn brought Seven's hand up to her lips and asked, closing her eyes and turning her head to the side a little, "Well, that depends…do you have any other engagements?"

"I am not required to be anywhere for the remainder of the evening except where you need me to be."

Smiling, feeling selfish but not caring at the moment, Janeway opened her eyes halfway and said, "Well, why do you put on something more comfortable and come keep me company."

"Do you require a change of attire?" Seven asked, standing.

"I'm too tired to move right now."

Making toward the closet, Seven said, "Very well, but I would be more than 'happy' to remove your clothing for you. Inform me if that is required."

"I think I better leave them on for a while," Janeway said, lazily rolling back on her stomach. "If I'm needed on the Bridge…I'm not sure I'd have the strength to put my uniform back on."

After a few moments, Seven of Nine emerged from the closet in a pair of the captain's grey, Starfleet issue underwear and one of her own t-shirts, the royal blue one and stated, crawling onto the bed, "Then it is wise for you to remain clothed. How is it that you wish for me to keep you company?"

Smiling softly, Janeway turned her head toward her lover and opened her eyes. Seeing Seven with her hair down and looking rather alluring in her thin, cotton garments that did little to hide her body, but a lot to wake the captain up, Janeway rolled over to her and said, pushing herself up on her elbow, and letting her eyes wander over the blonde's goddess like curves, "It really it is a shame I'm so…depleted…" sliding up next to Seven, who was on her back, and slipping her hand under the woman's shirt, "because you look awfully tempting." Kissing the Borg's cheek and then her jaw, moving down to her neck, and then back up to her ear, she whispered, letting her hand underneath her shirt settle in between Seven's breasts, "You are so beautiful to me, Seven of Nine." Then moving down to her neck again, her kisses becoming more erotic and arousing, Janeway said, "And sexy…mmm…and wonderful." Now at Seven's upper chest that was exposed by the neck line, "And sweet…and amazing."

Taking a deep breath, Seven remarked, "Kathryn…are you no longer tired?"

Janeway moved down quickly to Seven's stomach, pulling her shirt up some and said before she continued to kiss Seven's pale, smooth flesh, "I'm exhausted. Just give me a few minutes to enjoy myself before I pass out, hmm?"

Smirking, Seven replied, "I will not stop you then…proceed to enjoy yourself."

Janeway smiled as she chuckled, and started kissing the still fairly new flesh of Seven's abdomen, licking as she went, noticing that already her muscles were starting to become more prominent. Chuckling again, Janeway said against her stomach, moving up toward her ribs, "Looks like the beauty bugs have been hard at work."

"They are efficient," Seven smiled, not having too difficult a time becoming unduly aroused because even though she wasn't certain, she didn't believe that Kathryn wished to escalate this encounter to anything more than the redhead showing her appreciation for her exceptionally beautiful, blonde lover's body. Although, when the captain's hot tongue began teasing the sensitive, rounded flesh of her right breast, Seven had to take a slightly calming breath and swallowed.

Pushing up Seven' shirt more, exposing her bosom fully, Janeway smiled devilishly and asked, using more of her mouth on the woman beneath her, "Am I bothering you?"

"No, Kathryn," Seven answered clearly. "You may continue. Are you enjoying yourself?"

Finally taking the round, rosy nipple into the mouth, she moaned in response as Seven inhaled deeply, "Mmmhmm." Bringing up her other hand to pleasure Seven's other breast at the same time, Janeway pulled back a little after a few blissful minutes, and cooed into Seven's cleavage, "Seven of Nine…mmm…you have no idea how long I've wanted to do this."

A little breathless, Seven replied, "I can guarantee that it is not as long as I have waited for you to do so." Then the blonde brought her hand to the older woman's head and said, rubbing her hair, "However, I believe that it would be prudent to cease this action at the moment. It is becoming difficult to restrain myself."

Janeway chuckled into Seven's skin, then kissed her chest sweetly once more before she said, pulling down her shirt and crawling up to her lips, "You're probably right." Then kissing her softly, Janeway mumbled against her full, slightly parted lips, "Mmm…one of these days, darling…it's not going to be prudent to stop." Licking Seven's parted lips, letting her tongue slip inside, the captain said after her motion, and biting her bottom lip in restraint, her body starting to respond in kind, "One of these days, Seven of Nine, Annika Hansen, I am going to make love to you."

"One of these days, Kathryn, I am going to let you…please kiss me now."

Laughing once, Janeway smiled brightly and said, rubbing her nose against Seven's before she kissed her, "I will comply."

"The time is 0630 hours."

Groaning in disbelief, Kathryn Janeway started to roll over instantly out of habit, but feeling an extremely warm body pressed against her back, stirring slightly as well and starting to embrace her tighter, the captain stayed were she was but did pry open her tired, heavily lidded eyes as she heard the person in front of her sigh lightly and turn. Seeing Seven of Nine's bright blue eyes staring right back at her, Janeway turned up one corner of her cheek and said in a low, smoky voice, "Good morning."

"Greetings, Kathryn," Seven offered pleasantly, leaning over and giving her lover a friendly, non-kiss on her forehead.

Sighing and gritting her teeth somewhat, B'Elanna Torres burrowed her head into the captain's neck and hair asking in a irritated voice as her two bedmates greeted each other, "Why the hell are we getting up so early?"

Seven on Nine immediately rolled out of bed and said, lifting her arms and stretching as she had watched the captain do on several occasions, and feeling as though it was a pleasant action, "Kathryn and I are beginning our fitness routine this morning." As the tall, ex-Borg lifted her arms, her fairly small t-shirt raising up enough to give Kathryn a rather unobstructed view of her new, firm and impossibly pale stomach, which caused the redhead to smile in appreciation, Seven cocked her eyebrow, noticing the grin gracing Janeway's lips and lowered her arms, turning around and heading toward the closet which made Janeway chuckle in mirth.

As Torres mumbled something about Seven being insane in Janeway's ear and began kissing her at that spot, lightly, also wrapping Janeway up more and slipping her hand underneath the captain's oversized flannel shirt, fondling the redhead's entire torso, Janeway pressed into the caress, making more of her neck available and purred, "Mmm, hello again." When Torres focused her hand on one of Kathryn's breasts, kneading it lightly and kissing her neck with more purpose, although still rather sleeply, she continued, inhaling, "I don't remember you coming to bed…but I'm glad that you did."

The Klingon let up on her affection for a second and explained, teasing, "That's because you were seriously comatose, Red. You slept right through the pillow fight, the red alert, and the warp core breach….Seven and I took care of everything, though."

Elbowing Torres a little, Janeway laughed, "Liar." Then snuggling again back toward the engineer's welcoming, warm body, Janeway whispered, "Thank you for coming anyway…even if I didn't know you were here." When Torres resumed her lip caresses, working now more toward Janeway's shoulder and using more pressure with her hand, stirring the captain's senses, the captain mumbled, pressing her lower body into Torres' instinctively, "Mmm…Lanna…that's nice."

Stepping out of the closet in her black jumpsuit as the captain rolled toward B'Elanna, pulling the stocky Klingon on top of her, kissing her neck rather passionately as Torres continued to do the same, Seven of Nine stood near the closet silent and observed for a moment. When she heard the familiar sound of Kathryn's hum of pleasure, Seven cleared her throat as she could clearly tell that the Klingon was firmly planted between the captain's legs, and asked, "B'Elanna Torres, will you be joining us this morning?"

Torres sighed into Janeway's neck and answered, lifting her head, "No, dollface…too early for me." Then whispering, she said to Janeway, kissing her quickly on the lips and moving off of her, "Guess that's my cue to stop playing with the captain."

When her engineer moved off her and came to a rest to her left, Janeway rolled over, kissing her on the forehead and said, smiling, "I love you…thank you for playing." Not being able to resist, Janeway pulled Torres close to her again, and kissed her lips sweetly, and when she heard Seven sigh and cleared her throat again, Janeway pulled away and laughed, "I'm coming, dear." As she crawled out of the bed, the captain, after stretching in her normal manner, walked past Seven, requested a peck on the mouth, which Seven gave readily and then said, walking into the closet and smacking Seven's butt on her way, "I'll just be a minute."

After watching Janeway walk into the closet, Seven of Nine came over to Torres' side of the bed and said, with her hands behind her back, looking very much ready for business, "Good morning, B'Elanna Torres. Did you have a pleasant regeneration cycle?"

"Slept like a baby," Torres smiled, and sat up scratching her head. Then yawning and leaning back on her elbows, she whispered, "Did she wake up at all?"

Seven shook her head and said, leaning down somewhat, "I attempted to remain fairly alert for fear that she would have another 'nightmare.' I do not recall her waking up once or speaking during the night as she sometimes does when she is distressed." Then standing straight again as Janeway came out of the closet and walked into the bathroom, Seven looked back at Torres, whose mouth had taken a definite downturn since seeing the captain and shook her head informing the Klingon that she should not make mention of the fact that the captain looked thinner than either of them had ever seen her. Perhaps it was the tight, spandex type pants that the captain was wearing and the equally snug grey, Starfleet issue tanktop, sports bra which allowed both of the women to take notice of the slight woman's rather bonier than normal figure? Still, it was clear that the captain was definitely still not feeling herself yet, even if she had slept through the evening and the night without waking.

Coming out of the bathroom with her just above the shoulder length hair pulled back in a small ponytail, carrying her running shoes in one hand, the captain looked quickly at both women as she sat on her lounger, preparing to don her shoes and asked, feeling as though she was being watched, "What?"

"It is 'nothing,' Kathryn," Seven said, quickly walking up to her and leaving Torres, trying to silently inform her that Janeway would not approve of them commenting at all, and asked, "Are you required to stretch before we begin?"

Standing, after she slipped her feet into the shoes, the material instantly tightening around her feet without the need for laces and responded, "Not until I've warmed up a little." Then going over to the bed where Torres was now sitting up watching them quietly, she asked, leaning down to kiss her, "We'll be back soon…will you be here?"

"Probably not," Torres responded, smiling happily but softly. "So, you better kiss me again since I probably won't be able to stop by tonight…got a workout date with Nick."

After Janeway kissed the engineer again, Seven of Nine walked over to Torres, kissed her as well and said, "I will undoubtedly see you later, B'Elanna Torres."

Laying back down, preparing to relax for a little bit longer before she got up and started her day, Torres replied, "I will undoubtedly look forward to that. You two have fun…and Seven," the Klingon winked, then nodded to Janeway who had gone into the other room, "Red's faster than she looks. I'd think twice about racing her." Then laughing as Janeway yelled from the other room, "I heard that," Torres whispered, "Trust me."

In the slightly dimmed lights of Deck Five, Kathryn Janeway and Seven of Nine jogged easily, starting on this deck because at this time in the morning, there would be little traffic and the captain said she felt the need to warm up and get used to the idea before they raced past her crew as they began their day. As promised, the ex-drone allowed the fiery captain to set the pace; although, due to their height difference, Seven found herself having to modify her stride every now and then so she didn't pull ahead. Once when she did pull ahead, not purposefully doing so, but merely out of muscle memory and difficulty not moving faster, Seven glanced over her shoulder and caught the captain grinning somewhat. Curious as to what Janeway was pleased about, she slowed down, let Janeway catch up to her and asked, quietly, "Do you wish to run behind me? You have slowed your pace twice in the last five minutes to allow for that."

As Seven asked that, Janeway said since they had almost reached the end of the corridor, "That's good enough of a warm up, I think…let's stretch." Then as she leaned against the wall with her hands, stretching her calves, Janeway whispered to Seven who was mimicking her, even though she really wasn't required to stretch but feeling the need to do so with the captain, "And to answer your question…um, well, I was just enjoying the scenery as I jogged."

Seven was confused for a moment, then looking over her shoulder, she finally caught on and smirked, cocking her eyebrow the was covered with the casing of her ocular implant, "I believe I understand. Then the next time you wish to 'enjoy the scenery,' I will not hinder your attempts." Then as Janeway bent down and touched her toes, Seven whispered, taking a moment to enjoy the scenery as well, "Perhaps I will allow you to lead the next time, though."

Chuckling, the captain said standing up and twisting her torso back and forth, "You really do have a wonderful sense of humor, you know."

Seven made the same side to side movements as Janeway and informed, "It was a serious statement…but thank you, nevertheless."

After rolling her shoulders and feeling warmed up enough, Janeway patted Seven on the arm and said, "You're welcome. Okay, let's go…I'm feeling good…you?"

"Yes," the Borg stated, "however, do not overdo it, Kathryn…we are required to begin at a lower level. I have researched this."

Since no was around them, Janeway patted Seven on the butt and said, taking off down the corridor at a fairly decent speed, "Come on, you."

Sighing, Seven rolled her eyes and took off after Janeway, catching up to her fairly quickly because the captain had slowed her pace to a more reasonable speed and because Seven was Borg, so she had speed and stamina on her side, always…not to mention one heck of a long stride.

The two women ran once again around Deck Five, finding their preferred pace and then quickly jumped into the turbolift, Janeway keeping moving as Seven stood still and watched her, somewhat fascinated and once again glad that she was partly a cybernetic being since she was not required to do many things that her fully organic comrades were. They continued once around Deck Four, Seven letting the captain keep the pace, which she did rather steadily, the light thumping of their heels on the thin, grey carpeted floor of her vessel as constant as her heartbeat until they reached Deck Two, where they found themselves in the middle of the early morning rush to the Mess Hall. However, much to the captain's, and ultimately Seven's delight, they were not bothered other than a few polite and respectful "Good morning, Captain…Seven," or more simply just "Captain," and even one rather presumptuous man smiling and saying, "Good to see you, Captain." Practically everyone they breezed past noticed of the female runners, but most of them cleared the path without incident or comment…or protest as the captain had feared.

Perspiring fairly heavily now, Janeway picked up the pace on the last lap, stretching out her stride, letting her warm muscles tingle and burn slightly at the increase, feeling good; although starting to tire quickly. When they rounded the final curve, Janeway and Seven took it wide so as to not plow into anyone on the other side and within two strides, both of them digging in their heels, seeing the 'finish line' clearly now, they upped the speed again, not quite sprinting but definitely running hard. Seven of Nine was fairly impressed by the captain's quick but easy motion and even though she knew she could most likely out sprint her older lover in a longer race, she wasn't certain that she could beat her in a short one, since the compact redhead seemed to have a most deceptive kick to her form and the ability to zip ahead without warning.

Seven was quick and athletic, and even though she would not admit it, it took her a few strides before she was able to feel completely comfortable in the motion of running and increase her speed. Most of that was due to the fact that she had spent eighteen years as a Borg and never once ran, but she also knew that part of it was because her legs were so long and didn't respond as quickly or steadily as the captain's shorter ones.

Reaching the end of the corridor, both women hit the breaks and came to a halt just before they reached the dead end. Breathing heavily, Janeway rested against the wall with one hand, her other hand on her narrow hip. Then looking over at Seven of Nine, who was also breathing heavier and somewhat flushed, but was not perspiring thanks to her nanoprobes, Janeway sighed, shaking her head and said, reaching up and tugging gently on the golden lock of hair that had broken free of its confining bun, "Well, at least you have one hair out of place."

Turning around in case anyone came around the corner, Janeway tugged at the bottom of her shirt, pulling it free from her waistband, lifted it and wiped off her face. Of course, she didn't expose herself, but the captain was definitely a modest woman, so even exposing her stomach to just anyone seemed risky. Then tucking her shirt back in as she turned, she remarked, "I don't know about you, but I need a shower."

Following the captain as they walked back toward the turbolift, Seven resisted the urge to grab a hold of her hand, wanting to share this moment together as a couple rather than just friends, but knowing that the captain probably wouldn't feel comfortable, Seven placed her hands behind her back to keep them in line and stated, "I believe that I will accompany you." Then looking down as Janeway looked up at her and smirked, Seven asked, "Did you find this activity acceptable?"

Nodding at Seven and the two crewmembers that were passing them acknowledged her with a quiet, "Captain," as they continued on their way, Janeway answered once they were alone again, "Very much…I think this is going to be okay." Then patting her on the back, she smiled and said, "Seems like you've proved me wrong again."

Seven was humble, not something that she often did, and answered, "Perhaps…however, it is still too early to tell, I believe. I think we should continue with this form of exercise for the time being to better gauge the reaction…then perhaps we can add the gymnasium to our routine if you feel that it will not negatively affect the crew."

Stepping into the turbolift, Janeway said, "One thing at a time, Seven…but yes, I agree. Let's continue jogging for now." Then when the doors closed, she turned to the tall blonde and said, placing one hand on her hip and she wiped her forehead and with the back of her other arm, "Besides…I'd like to save up my holodeck time as much as possible…as a present for B'Elanna."

Curious, Seven asked as they walked out onto Deck Three, "Am I allowed to inquire about this present?"

"She's got a holonovel she's working on…and I'd like to give her some of my time as a way of getting her off to a good start," the redhead explained, walking slowly and somewhat lazily now that they were back on her cabin's deck where it was practically always quiet since there were only senior officer's quarters at this end. "It's always better if you have several hours to play around with a holonovel by yourself, just to make sure you understand the character and the setting before you invite other people to play along."

Following the captain into their quarters, Seven stated, "That is a generous offering, …I am certain B'Elanna Torres will appreciate it."

Janeway bent down, stretching out her legs and sighed, "Uh, I know I'm going to pay for this later today, but that really did feel good, darling…thank you for thinking of this." After a few minutes of silent stretching, Seven copying the captain, putting all of the movement to memory so that she could perform this function on her own since she could feel the difference, and assumed that if she 'manually' stretched out her muscles routinely, that would be less work her nanoprobes would have to do for her, and since the captain was required to do so, it seemed to Seven that this was an equally important part of their routine and that she should join in, Janeway stood up and said, smiling and walking up to Seven, placing her hands on the Borg's hips, "You know…I think this is just what I need right now." Then standing on her tip toes, she kissed the blonde quickly and thanked, softly, "Thank you for always thinking for the both of us. I don't know what I would do with you."

Very pleased that the captain was enjoying herself as much as Seven had, and that it seemed that their activity was assisting the captain with her distress, Seven reached down, picked Janeway up, who was used to this gesture now and wrapped her legs and arms around Seven easily, while she answered, "I am not certain what you would do without me…and I do not wish for you to ever know."

When Janeway laughed and smiled brightly, Seven actually smiled as well and then kissed her, keeping her lips against the captain's long enough to evoke a more sensual response from Janeway. Then walking carefully, but easily into the bathroom, Seven informed, smirking, "Now it is time for our next ritual…the shower."

Purring in Seven's ear, flicking at the lobe with her tongue once, Kathryn said seductively, "Mmm, Seven…I like that idea too."

Seven sighed ruefully and said, "Unfortunately, my Kathryn…we do not have much time for a lengthy shower." Setting the captain down, Seven stated, "Perhaps we should get up earlier next time?"

Janeway reached up behind the tall blonde, unzipping her outfit and responded, "Perhaps we should stop talking and make use of the time we do have?"

Seven gave the captain her best 'Impressive' look and said, "Acceptable," then proceed to undress the captain rather hastily.

Two weeks later, the captain sat in her office chair staring down into the dark liquid held inside her silver coffee cup that was resting in her lap, not seeing the beverage, but looking past it as her mind continued to be distracted by random thoughts. If someone were to look at Janeway now, not paying attention to the fact that she was daydreaming, they would undoubtedly say that she was fairing much better than she was just half a month ago. She looked fit, but not worn, and her complexion had a definite rosy hue to it. Her skin was tight, but hydrated, and her classic, ageless beauty had returned with vigor, leaving her tired, more telling look in its wake.

Wearing very little makeup today, she still was unquestionably radiant. She had cut her hair again, sporting the length she had discovered that Seven of Nine and B'Elanna Torres both favored, her auburn kissed locks coming just to her chin, and since she really didn't have a preference, truth be known, she chopped it with no trepidation and was actually glad she had done so afterward because it certainly was easier to manage. Her uniform wasn't sagging on her hips as it had before since she had put on a kilogram or two, most of it muscle, so she filled out her small uniform rather well.

Earlier today when she had stopped by Engineering on one of her now infamous impromptu visits, knowing that she looked exceptionally vibrant, the captain had to bite down on her laughter as Torres, who was on the upperdeck of Engineering, plowed into one of her staff because she was paying attention to the captain and not where she was walking. Once the Klingon had recovered and reigned in her temper, knowing the accident was her fault, she had grasped onto the ladder and slid down quickly, doing her best to hide her attraction and continue with her normal exclamation of how she hadn't known the captain was going to be in today.

Janeway, of course, played it off like a pro, hardly talking to the engineer and informing her that she was just taking a walk and wanted to stop by to see how things were going. After brushing the chief off and telling her to just ignore her, pretending not to hear Torres' mumbling about how that was really impossible, Janeway made a slow circuit of the room, stopping to talk to a few crewmembers and inquiring about several small modifications that were being completed that she had informed B'Elanna a long time ago she didn't need to know about as long as they worked. After that, she had climbed the ladder instead of using the lift, feeling frisky and energetic, and stayed for a few minutes up there just watching her staff work and pretended to not see the chief, who was also up there, glancing at her every other second or so.

Before she departed, she came up to B'Elanna and whispered, remaining completely professional, "Chief…as usual, you're doing a fine job. You have my thanks…as you were." Then leaving promptly out the upper entrance, stopping in the doorway to look back as Torres thanked her and told her, rather presumptuously to stop by anytime, Janeway finally allowed a little personal exchange to occur, smiling crookedly and winking before she disappeared, remembering to brush her hand across her bottom, continuing to tease the engineer about her infatuation with the captain in her uniform.

Chuckling softly to herself and as she recalled the incident, Janeway finally blinked her eyes and brought her cup to her lips, sipping on her practically bottomless cup of coffee. Then sighing, she allowed herself another moment of personal time before she got back to her work, needing the break.

Despite what the captain's physical recovery would suggest, Janeway's personal time had been fleeting in the last two weeks. She admitted that most of it was at her discretion, still using her work to center herself, but that certainly wasn't the only reason. Not only had they spent several days exploring a exceptionally spectacular ion storm from a safe distance, but Tuvok's plans for the Elite Force were now in full swing. The preliminaries were now set to occur in a week, which required much of the captain's attention since she insisted that she play a major part in the group, needing to be just as aware as her Chief of Security in case the day came that she was required to use their talents aboard her vessel. Janeway still gave Tuvok final say as far as the people involved, but she was more interested in devising their 'mission statement' and having her say in their tactical plans, and well as how they would use the group in special circumstances, and as their conversations grew lengthier and more involved, it became readily clear to the captain that they had a lot of work ahead of them if they wanted to see this to its full potential. There would be weapon modifications required, training regiments that would need to be enforced, special forces uniforms to produce for different missions, shuttle craft modifications…the list went on and on.

On top of all of that, plus her regular work load, which depending on the week was something close to cruel and unusual punishment, she had given Naomi Wildman the position of captain's assistant, which kept Janeway on her toes, one hour a day, three times a week, trying to come up with a relatively fun task she could give the youngster, determined to not have the girl ushering reports to an from different departments except every now and then when Janeway really was too busy to do it herself since she normally got sucked into a conversation about how this or that could be improved. Naomi was still working on her first special assignment, informing the captain that she hadn't had a good opportunity to be sneaky yet, but that she was working on it. Janeway had nodded seriously and informed her to take her time since Seven's birthday was still almost two months away. Samantha Wildman had finally gathered the courage to approach the captain and after some trepidation, she finally opened up and thanked Janeway from the bottom of her heart for treating her child so wonderfully. The ensign went on to tell Janeway how very much Naomi looked up to and idolized the captain and that she appreciated Janeway acquiescing the zealous girl. Janeway, in turn, informed her crewman that she truly enjoyed Naomi's company, and the few hours they spent together every week were some of her favorite, and that the girl was actually rather helpful, even if all she did some days was make the captain laugh and smile as they talked about various activities the child had been involved in during her classes.

And the final thing that had the captain at her office and on the Bridge well past her scheduled shift was that in less than a week, she had to decide the fate of lieutenants Nicole Fowler and Thomas Eugene Paris. That single decision might not be making up a lot of the captain's work time, but it certainly took more than its fair share of her thinking time. With the decision now only three days away, Janeway and Chakotay were talking about the matter at least once a day, both of them leaning toward splitting the responsibility between both lieutenants; however, acknowledging that they would approach Tom Paris first, and if he balked at the idea, they would give the job outright to Fowler since she had just done too fine of a job making her place among the senior staff an asserting her authority confidently when necessary. She had also made a proposal to the captain about setting up a training program for some of the other pilots, citing her plight as a perfect example of why is was absolutely necessary, and on top of that, she had worked several extra shifts, spent a great deal of time in the holodeck utilizing the flight simulators, and all around proved that not only was she trustworthy, she was determined, competent, willing to learn, hard-working, and somewhat of a force to be reckoned with, which Janeway not-so-secretly admired a great deal.

The only thing that was holding the commanders back from just giving her the position was that Tom Paris had taken the month to look somewhat within himself and had continued to take it upon himself to beef up his Medical and Ship's Maintenance training, and he had also, just yesterday, completed the impulse engine upgrades on Voyager's second shuttle, with some help from the folks in Engineering, the captain very glad Tom and B'Elanna had managed to get over their failed relationship, and even though they certainly weren't best pals, they were still able to manage civility and joke around as they worked. Word around the ship was that Paris, on his spare time, was designing yet another shuttle, this one apparently completely different from the Delta Flyer. The information was hit and miss, but since Janeway had heard the rumor from several of her crewmembers, she figured there was something to it. Ordinarily, Janeway wouldn't get her hopes up for such an event, but since the Delta Flyer had proved to be an impressive piece of machinery, to say the least, she admitted to herself that she was curious and eager to hear what Paris had come up with, certain that it would require more resources than she was really comfortable allowing, but equally certain that if she did, it would be worth the extra energy and personnel. Because Tom had continued to assert himself as a critical member of this team, Janeway was uneasy about taking the wind from his sails. As much as she didn't like to think about it…she still very much needed Tom Paris, and as long as he kept his ducks in a row, she couldn't responsibly just let him fade off into the background. He was too popular, much too good of a pilot, and too damned creative to ignore.

But those things weren't on the good captain's mind at this moment. Right now, her job was on the back burner and her personal life continued to take center stage. As much as it pained her to admit it, she knew, in her heart that she wasn't completely recovered from her ordeal with Mister X. Sure, she wasn't nearly as jumpy as she was the first two days, but there were still moments when she was alone in her quarters when she caught herself looking over her shoulder, taking the corner into her bathroom wide with her fists clenched, and showered with a great deal of haste. She had stopped taking baths altogether, feeling entirely too exposed for too great a time lounging in the bath; plus, bathing really was her favorite way to relax, and she was damned if she was going to let this ruin it for her. So, she had just decided to hold off on bathing until this whole mess worked out of her system, and then she could go back to her previous routine without giving it a thought.

Since she had been spending so much time on the Bridge and away from her cabin, Seven had decided to take this opportunity to go stay with B'Elanna Torres, which the captain was completely agreeable with, knowing that they required their own time, but last night when Janeway came home to an empty room and an empty bed, she had been a heartbeat away from turning right around and making a trip down to Deck Ten to join them; however, ultimately, she hadn't, deciding that she simply had to give them their privacy and that she had spent the last seven years alone, so she would just have to suck it up and get over it. There was no jealousy involved, only the need for company…and protection.

The captain was still suffering from nightmares, on a fairly consistent basis, and every now and then, usually on the nights when for one reason or another she had been reminded of her ordeal, she woke up, soaking wet with perspiration, body rigid, calling out to Seven, B'Elanna, and even once Fowler to save her. Last night had been one of those nights, and since there wasn't at least one warm body in her bed to curl up next to and put the unsettling images from her mind, she had decided she needed to workout her anxiety by exercising, and almost an hour and a half later, Janeway returned to her empty cabin, sweaty and spent after jogging around several decks and then hopping into a Jefferies Tube to make the long climb back to her quarters, moving as quickly as she could since the shafts were fairly spooky, even under normal circumstances, and even more so when she constantly felt that someone was watching, or worse, chasing her. After an extra hot shower, she had managed to talk herself into sleeping again, and forced herself to put everything out of her mind since she only had a few hours before she had to wake up and meet Seven of Nine for their fitness routine.

However, all in all, Janeway really didn't feel too terrible. She was undoubtedly in total and complete love with both B'Elanna and Seven, which helped to keep her upbeat and positive, even when something triggered a memory that made her skin crawl. Furthermore, Seven and Torres seemed to be living it up as well, and there were quite a few rumors circulating around the ship about the two of them, and just were it was that the captain fit in since the two had decided themselves that they were not going to hide their relationship. She was mildly troubled that she hadn't resumed her sexual relationship completely with either of them yet because after the incident where she had felt trapped, despite that she was firmly being held by Seven, a woman she felt absolutely protected around all of the time, Janeway had had a long discussion with herself and practically ordered herself to get over it. After that, she had forced herself to not react that way, and had done a fairly decent job ignoring any negative sensations as she approached her lovers in a sexual manner; however, after a few days of feeling like she was pushing the issue, and not really acting naturally, but definitely purposeful, she had yet another long talk with herself, and as much as it wrenched her soul to do it, she had to take a step back for fear that she was going to end up sleeping with one or both of them and not really be present for the experience, which was totally unacceptable to Kathryn.

That feeling had lasted about a week and a half, and now the captain felt decidedly different; although, she still admitted to herself that she was very much confused as to what exactly it was that she was feeling. She assumed that part of it was that she was starting to crave the closeness that she felt with Seven and B'Elanna before she had made the decision to back away somewhat. But as Janeway was well aware, just because she was ready to attempt to put the past behind her and move along, that didn't mean that the universe was going to let her, and as she sat in her chair and thought about everything that was happening to her, she sighed heavily more than a few times because the timing had just been bad all around.

Since she had been working so much, she couldn't blame her lovers for not waiting around for her every night since she had made it clear to them that until she decided about the pilot's position she would be working a lot and that she just had to put this part of her life first right now. She had shared a few exciting moments with Seven of Nine in the shower the other morning, but since neither of them wanted to get up any earlier than they already did on those mornings, the showers that followed their fitness routine had turned into something similar to foreplay…foreplay for what, Janeway wasn't certain at this moment, but she was confident that the right moment would come to them now that she felt she was ready, so she was content to wait. Miss Torres was another story, and Janeway figured that it was mostly because she and B'Elanna had made love on several occasions before her attack, that every time she found herself alone with the engineer in the last four days, which hadn't been very often at all, both of them did their very best to stay at arms distance, knowing that once they started, it would take a red alert, at least, to stop them.

The one thing that the captain was really starting to grow curious about was the status of Torres' and Seven's relationship. Even though part of the captain really wanted to be the first person to make love to the angelic ex-drone, simply because they had shared all of the ex-Borg's big firsts together so far, she knew that not only was Seven highly attracted to Torres, but that the engineer was also very much appreciative of the blonde's body, and of course, they obviously loved each other, even if they hardly said it much, and really were good friends and colleagues. When Seven of Nine stayed over at Torres' for the sixth night in a row, Janeway became fairly certain that that was one first she had missed, and after sitting with it for a few moments over a mild whiskey and soda, she finally had smiled warmly, just happy to believe that Seven was happy and that it was B'Elanna who had taken her down that path first. There was, of course, the knowledge that Janeway was the first person Seven ever made love to, so that helped her a little as well. Again, there was no jealously involved, just the desire to fulfill certain dreams that just, for one reason or another, weren't in the cards for the captain in this universe. That knowledge did little to assist the captain in her ability to forgive and forget a dead man who still haunted her dreams and the shadows sometimes, but since she knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that one day she would make love to Seven, and that it would be a major first, simply because they were so close to each other's hearts, she was able to put the melancholy about the situation behind her and move on with ease.

Sighing and smiling to herself as she thought about Seven and B'Elanna, and how hostile they had been toward each other right from the beginning, Torres' first words to the Borg something about how the woman and her Collective counterparts had turned her engine room into a "Borg circus," and now fairly certain they had consummated their relationship, the captain couldn't help but shake her head in amazement while she sipped her coffee again and whispered, "It really is a fairy tale." Then sitting up straight and clearing her throat as her door call sounded for what seemed like the millionth time today, Janeway said, "Come in," as she turned toward her workstation quickly, just trying to remember what it was that she had been doing before she slipped into her recesses of her mind.

"Got a minute, Captain?" asked Chief Engineer B'Elanna Torres as she stepped easily and relaxed into Janeway's Ready Room.

"Sure," Janeway smiled openly, clearly happy to see a friendly face. Standing, she asked, "Want some coffee?"

"I'm good…but thanks," Torres smiled back, walking with Janeway over to the couch, reminding herself to ask the captain one of these days why she constantly changed positions whenever someone came into her office. If she was at the couch, she tended to migrate to her desk and visa versa. As Janeway sat down and nodded to her, informing she could sit as well, Torres asked before she sat, "This is personal…is that okay…or do you want me to wait?"

"It's fine…what's up?" asked Janeway, kicking her feet on her coffee table and relaxing, glad she didn't have to go back to work just yet.

Sitting down next to Janeway, but keeping a fair distance between them, B'Elanna smiled and said, turning toward the captain, "I've been thinking about asking you this for a bit…but I guess I kind of forgot with everything…that is until you waltzed into my engine room today…looking like you do…"

Modestly, Janeway lowered her head in thanks and then asked, turning toward Torres more, propping her head on her arm that was resting on the top of the sofa, "What is it?" Sensing Torres' nervousness and apprehension, Janeway reached out, placing her hand on the woman's shoulder and said, "It's okay…you can ask me anything."

Finally having enough of all this at an arm's length business, Torres scooted over to Janeway and explained, placing her hand on the captain's thigh and rubbing it gently, "It's date night in the holodeck…and some of my friends are going to be there. Nick's gonna join the band…she plays the drums and guitar for them from time to time…big surprise," they chuckled, both of them easily imaging their friend beating the hell out a drum set, "anyway…I was wondering if you were up for dinner with me?" Before Janeway could answer, Torres leaned in close and said seriously, "I was wondering if you were ready to make this official? If you're not, then I'm okay with that…for now," then touching Janeway 's face and brushing back her hair, she smiled and said, "But I'd be lying if I said that I don't want people to know that Seven's not the only person I love." Leaning in close to the captain's lips, she whispered, "Just why it is that whenever you come around, I'm a walking disaster area until you're gone." Torres brushed her lips against the captain's, which caused Janeway to whimper lightly as she said, "And afterward, I wanna take you to my cabin and make love to you, Kathryn…and I don't want to care who knows. I just want to be with you tonight…just you."

Finally kissing Janeway, who was flushing quite a bit as her pulse raced, Torres didn't hold back her desire, letting it speak through her throaty moan and her eager tongue as it invaded the captain's welcoming mouth. Then pulling away before she started to feel light-headed from all the blood thundering toward her cranium, the chief asked, breathing heavier and resting her head against Janeway's forehead, "Will you go out with me tonight?"

Smiling, Janeway nodded her head just barely and said, feeling rather emotional, "Yes." Then sighing in frustration, she said, "I'm sorry that you were the one that had to do that. I wanted to be the one to ask you…I guess," Janeway shook her head, pulling back and looking down, "I guess I forgot."

The half-Klingon kissed the captain's forehead quickly and said, "Don't be sorry, Red." Lifting her chin, Torres smiled and said, "Besides…it works better if I ask you. I'm taking you out, my treat all the way, no arguments…and then you're coming to my place…see how that works?" When Janeway looked less than pleased with herself, B'Elanna pulled her across her lap and said, leaving no doubt, "Red…one more time…you have nothing to be sorry about. In case you didn't know…you're kind of my girl, and that means that I get to look out for the both of us." Then turning very serious, hugging the compact captain straddled across her lap, Torres said softly, "I love you, Kathryn…for more reasons than I think I really know…one of them because you care so goddamned much about everyone else. I don't expect you to have time to manage the universe and your own life all the time. Shit happens…a lot…and when you have to be there to pick it up…I'll be there to help you pick yourself up."

Hugging Torres fiercely, Janeway said, "I know you will, Lanna…and I love you." Pulling away, she caressed Torres' forehead ridges with her index finger and explained, "I just wanted everyone to know before they knew about me and Seven that I also love you. That just because Seven and I have a special bond, that doesn't mean that you're any less of a partner. Do you understand? I just want to make sure you don't have to go through that."

Torres smiled crookedly and said, "Let me worry about those things…and you just worry about what you're going to wear tonight, okay?"

Janeway exhaled in amusement and wonder, constantly amazed at how laid-back Torres could be when it came to her sometimes, and then sometimes so completely uptight, and asked, kissing the Klingon's forehead several times, "Okay…any preference?"

"Yea," B'Elanna answered, rubbing the captain's back lightly, "wear a dress…a long one. You've got one…right?"

Smiling against her forehead, the captain mumbled, "Mmmhmm…several." Then pulling away and brushing her knuckles over the engineer's lips, she asked, "Is this formal…or casual?"

"Fancy…but fun…so make certain you're comfortable," Torres explained, kissing the captain's knuckles. "And leave the rest to me, cowgirl. This is a big thing for me…to take you out for a night out on the town…so you're under orders to just doll yourself up real pretty like, and let me take care of you."

"Aye, aye, Lieutenant Lanna," Janeway smiled. Then kissing Torres quickly, Janeway climbed off of her and said, "Well, as much as I'd love to sit here and kiss you all day long…I'm afraid if I'm going to paint the town with you, I've got to get back to work." Walking back toward her desk, she asked over her shoulder, "What time should I expect you…or am I meeting you there?"

Jumping up, excited, Torres answered, "Hell no…we're gonna do this proper. How does 1900 hours sound?"

"Can we make it 1930…just to give me a little breathing room?" asked Janeway, sitting down at her desk.

Walking toward the door, Torres said sarcastically, teasing her lover over her shoulder, "Unlike some people I know…I can compromise. I'll see you then, Captain Cowgirl."

Laughing out loud, Janeway shook her head as her engineer exited her office and sat back for a moment, taking a few more seconds to herself before she went back to work. Then thinking of Seven and what Naomi had said about them not having a lot of time to spend together recently, Janeway tapped her communicator and said, "Janeway to Seven of Nine."

After a moment, the Borg's crisp but kind voice came back in the reply she saved only for Janeway, her other responses were always, "Seven here," which caused the captain to smile, "I am here, Captain."

"Seven," Janeway asked in a professional tone, "can you talk?"

"Yes, Kathryn…I am alone at the moment."

"Darling," the captain began, switching roles easily, "B'Elanna and I are going out tonight…and I'll be staying with her. So, I thought that maybe before it gets too late, you might want to invite Naomi over for a sleepover? Of course, if you don't want to, that's fine…but I just wanted you to know that the place is all yours for the night…after 1930 hours."

Seven smiled wide, warmed that Janeway would think of her in such a manner and stated, "I will contact her immediately."

"Make sure you talk to Samantha first," Janeway reminded, but not condescendingly. "She might have too much homework or something else to do."

"I will comply," Seven answered quickly, resisting the urge to sigh at Janeway's needless reminder since she knew that she was just trying to keep both Seven and Naomi from getting their hopes up. "Since I will not see you this evening most likely…would it be possible for me to consume my late afternoon nutritional supplement in your office? I will not disturb you. I merely wish to see you for a short time."

"I'd like that," Janeway replied softly. "I don't have any appointments left …and you never bother me, my love…except the way I love to be bothered. Janeway out."

"Come in…Seven," Janeway said…that last part silently, knowing that the person at her door was her Astrometrics officer simply out of intuition and because Seven of Nine was the only person she was expecting. When none other than the ship's resident ex-Borg drone marched into her office, Janeway said standing, "Hello again."

"Greetings…again," Seven smirked, walking up to the desk, leaning over and kissing Janeway quickly on the lips. "How has your day been?"

"Thank you…busy," Janeway smiled, sitting back down as Seven, keeping her word, planning to merely 'observe' Janeway while she ate, made her way to the replicator immediately. Since Seven was still required to drink only her supplements for one more week before she could start on solid foods, she had developed a four 'meal' a day routine, which was the blonde's new favorite word, and by the hour, the captain knew that this was Seven's third supplement. "How about you?"

Taking her supplement and the PADD she had brought with her which contained her data on the Slipstream drive she continued to work on when she had the time—last night informing Torres that within three month's time, they would be able to submit the data to the captain, and at that time begin testing immediately, which they had decided was the best way to approach the situation...because it wouldn't give the captain much room to resist—to the sofa, Seven answered, "I am continuing to track and analyze the ion storm. It is still 'going strong.' It is erratic..however, I believe we may be able to gain some previously unknown knowledge on the phenomenon. It will take several days to complete my analysis, however."

Smirking, Janeway glanced up at Seven over her workstation and said, "Well, I'm sure if anyone can figure it out, you can."

"Thank you," the blonde responded, sipping her drink. When Janeway went back to her work, Seven thought about sitting, but then changing her mind, she instead remained standing where she was, PADD in one hand and lunch in the other and silently continued her research, imputing data every now and then.

Finished reading her report, Janeway let her eyes rise to Seven before she started on the next item of business which was yet another proposal from Geology, the scientists down there practically demanding that the captain take the ship into the orbit of the next uninhabited Class L or M planet so that they may gather some much needed soil samples for their research. For several minutes, Janeway watched Seven work and couldn't help but smile as her lover continued to stand, even though she was required to set her glass down from time to time so she could input data into the hand held device. Utterly amazed at how far they had come, and comforted by the knowledge that even though there had been no formal commitment, she and Seven would always be by each other's side, that knowledge as true to her as the recognition of her own name, Janeway sighed blissfully and said, softly turning back to her screen, "I love you, Seven."

"I love you as well, my Kathryn," was all Seven said, smiling just slightly and not looking away from her work, determined to not disturb Janeway and keep her from her evening with B'Elanna Torres.

Once Seven of Nine had finished her supplement and felt that she had spent enough time in the captain's company for the day, the Borg acutely aware of how quickly she began to miss Kathryn's reassuring presence, she recycled her glass and asked, "Do you require liquid refreshment before I depart?"

Frowning, Janeway questioned standing, "You're leaving already?"

Understanding that meant that the captain wasn't interested in drinking anything at the moment, Seven met her out in front of her desk and answered, "I am required to return to duty. The captain would not be pleased if I did not."

Grabbing Seven and wrapping her arms around her, Janeway said joking, but sad that she knew she couldn't let Seven stay, "I don't think I like 'the captain' very much right now. She's awfully unreasonable today…why don't you let me talk to her…I'll convince her to let you stay?"

Seven titled Janeway's head up and kissed her properly, then said, "She will undoubtedly be disagreeable. I have known her for three years. We are what could be considered...'close'. She would not approve."

Janeway sighed and said, pulling away and going back to her desk, "You're probably right…as usual. Say hi to Naomi for me, huh?"

"I will comply," Seven said, heading for the door. "Have a pleasant evening, Kathryn…I will see you tomorrow."

"Thank you, love…you too," Janeway said as the door slid open. "And don't let her stay up all night."

Seven rolled her eyes, smirking and said over her shoulder, exiting, "Yes, Captain."

At 1830 hours, Janeway put down her work for the evening, even though she wasn't completely finished and logged off for duty. Then after turning over the Bridge to Chakotay who was working on the Beta shift this day, she quickly tooled off to her quarters to prepare for her date. Once inside her cabin, she put a privacy seal on her communicator, informing anyone that needed to contact her that she didn't wished to be bothered unless it was an emergency, and she was completely prepared to leave the seal on for the rest of the evening and until the morning when she woke. After a quick shower, the captain requested some soft, jazzy music from her personal collection in the database and with an oversized, white, plush towel wrapped around her body, she padded into her closet. Turning on the light, Janeway stood for several minutes examining her various non-Starfleet garments. Since Torres had requested that she wear a long dress, that limited her selection to four articles. Truth be known, Janeway preferred pant suits when formal attire was required, leaving the dresses for more casual functions, but for some reason, as she thought about prancing around the ship with her lover in a long, silk dress, she honestly couldn't picture anything different since she was fairly certain that Torres was not going to wear a dress…that just really wasn't Torres style, not matter who, male or female, she was with.

Out of her four long dresses, only two of them could be considered fancy, and only one of them was silk, so Janeway quickly settled on that one. It was almost floor length, sleeveless, and shinned an iridescent periwinkle. The cut was straight, only cinched just a touch at the waist, which Janeway preferred since her body boosted straight, strong body lines, and there were two slits on each side which allowed her to move freely since the dress was meant to be snug, although she figured she would have a little bit more room in the outfit than normal since she was still smaller, and a tad more muscled, than she normally was. The top was modest, the material coming all the way to her neck at the front, but dipped much lower on her back, leaving approximately half of her back exposed to the air.

After slipping on a pair of lacy underwear that didn't leave a panty line, she put lotion all over her body since a great deal of her bare skin would be exposed this evening and since she didn't want to wear stockings. Once that was done, she slipped the dress over her almost entirely bare body and reached back, fastening the single button behind her neck that keep the whole thing in place. Then frowning a little when she realized that the last time she worn this outfit, her hair was much longer and hid the button and some of her back, she dug through her secret chest and found the long white, ultra sheer scarf of her mother's that she could wrap around her neck and let fall down her back which would do approximately the same as her long mane used to. Slipping on the strappy sandals with a moderate heel that went with her gown, she slid open the panel, exposing her full length mirror and took a few moments to examine herself. Pleased the her new hair style didn't take away from the effect of the dress, actually thinking that the addition of the scarf looked better than her long hair did, she stepped out of her closet and pranced into the bathroom.

Wanting to keep to a more natural appearance since she really did feel honestly beautiful without much assistance, Janeway combed back her hair, tucking what she could behind her ears, and then put on just a little makeup. A little more than she normally wore to duty, which was hardly anything at all, but not a lot. After applying some natural tones to her eyes, she brushed her teeth, and then applied a nude, glossy color to her lips, and a light coating of pearly body glitter to her shoulders and arms. Then while she stuck her pearl studded earrings into the ears, she went over to the replicator and ordered a mild whiskey and soda, hoping the drink would calm her nerves since she was somewhat anxious about appearing out in public with Torres. It wasn't that she was ashamed or felt negative about her relationship at all…it was a natural reaction since she was the captain and anytime she let her personal life become public knowledge it left her a little uneasy until she realized she was being foolish and moved along.

Now back in the bathroom, Janeway cleaned her fingernails, which had grown out some in the last few weeks. After filing them down to a more reasonable level, she buffed them as she sipped her drink and waited for Torres to pick her up, humming along to the music in the air. After she had finished her nails and her drink, and as she was applying a new coat of lip-gloss, her door call sounded. Smiling, knowing that Torres was the one at her door and not surprised at all that she had used the door call instead of just coming in as she had finally got into the habit of doing, she cleared her throat, and said from the bathroom, checking her teeth and her appearance one more time, "Come in." When she heard Torres' voice start to say something then stop as she realized no one was in the living room waiting for her, Janeway said, "I'll be right there."

Teasing her lover, the Klingon asked as she walked to the bedroom door, shoving her hands into the pockets of her black, tailored trousers, "You're not one of those women who take eight hundred years in the bathroom are you?"

Chuckling, Janeway shut off the light and emerged from the bathroom, saying, "Not quite." Then stopping dead in her tracks as she saw the chief, Janeway's heart skipped a beat and her blood pressure instantly went through the roof at the almost criminally sexy sight before her. Her engineer looked more beautiful than Janeway ever recalled seeing her, and there had been many times in the past when the captain thought for certain she was blushing because Torres' attractiveness had caught her off-guard. The brunette had let her hair take on its natural wavy look which brought out her Klingon heritage a great deal, even though her clothes were very much more something one would see on Earth rather than in the Empire, albeit the colors were dark and masculine, much like Klingons. Her slacks were black wool, and pressed and tailored so they fit her trim, athletic body perfectly. They were flat in front, and Torres had obviously ordered them to be just a pinch loose so that they sat on her hips comfortably. Her shirt, from what Janeway could tell was a smoky grey that looked to be made out of stretch material because it clung to her firm, well-rounded bosom rather tightly. She had it tucked into her pants and unbuttoned provocatively to her sternum. On top of that, the part that the captain was really enjoying the most, Torres sported a black leather jacket that came just past her belt line and added a tough and wild, but womanly, due to its cut, attitude to her date. Her shoes were her work boots, but since they were black leather, they didn't take away from anything, and from the shine coming off of them in the soft light, Janeway knew B'Elanna had taken a moment to buff them up, not a normal occurrence since she was an engineer. Sauntering up to Torres who was gazing at Janeway equally impressed, Kathryn said in her trademark husky voice, placing her hands on the engineer's shoulders, "You take my breath away" Tugging on the lapel of the jacket, she smirked, "I like this very much…it suits you."

Exhaling, Torres responded, "Red…you do realize that you're killing me in that dress?" Placing her hands on Janeway's hips, feeling the fabric, she whispered, "Where did you get this?"

Janeway leaned into Torres and said quietly, "I've had it for a long time…I'm assuming that means you like it?"

Torres pulled away and walked around the captain, whistling, and said when she say the low cut back, "Like would be a really big understatement." Then coming back in front of her, she eyed her up and down, and then laughed, "BIG understatement." Then grabbing Janeway and pulling her into her chest, Torres placed her hand on the captain's bare back and whispered into her ear as Janeway laughed, "You're the sexiest thing on two legs…hands down."

The captain slipped her arms inside the Klingon's jacket and said kissing her neck, lightly, "Mmm…that title is most definitely yours…but thank you." Then pulling away and admiring the cleavage that was exposed by Torres' unbuttoned shirt, she traced her index finder from her throat, down her chest and stopping right at the top of the inviting crease, "This is also very nice."

Torres smiled, then kissed Janeway quickly and said, "Okay, Red…let's go before we decide to skip dinner." Holding out her arm, she asked as Janeway slipped her arm inside, "Are you ready for this?"

"Darling…I'm a Starfleet captain…I'm always ready," Janeway smirked. Then kissing Torres cheek quickly, she said, "Lead the way."

Taking a deep breath, the engineer nodded and proceed out of the door with the captain on her arm. The walk to the turbolift was completely quiet as they both prepared themselves to be seen on the lower deck where the holodeck was located, knowing that they would definitely run into several crewmembers. Stepping into the turbolift, Torres said easily, "Deck Seven." Then as the turbolift started descending, she turned her head to Janeway as she tucked her other hand into the trouser pocket and said, "I love you, Red."

Janeway squeezed Torres' arm against her body and smile brightly, saying, "I love you too, darling. Thank you for taking me out tonight."

As the doors opened and they proceed out onto the deck, still not running into anyone yet, Torres whispered, "You can thank me later," which caused the redhead to laugh as well. When they turned the corner and spotted the first of Voyager's crew coming toward them, Torres took a silent breath, straightened a little and remained poised as they passed the two crewmembers who were undoubtedly watching them walk away, resisting the urge to turn around and check. When three more people started for them, Torres didn't realize she was tense until she felt Janeway squeeze her arm and whispered, "Easy."

"Gentlemen," Janeway said smoothly and pleasantly as the three men stepped aside and man way for the female duo, the highest ranking man acknowledging the captain with a respectful nod of his head and a crisp, "Good evening, Captain…Lieutenant." Then turning to Torres who was looking straight ahead at the holodeck door, Janeway asked, "You okay?"

"Absolutely," Torres said with confidence, even though both of them knew she was lying. Then as they came to the holodeck door which was set to open automatically upon sensing someone's presence in front of it since the deck was open to the public this night every week, she said under hear breath, "Here goes nothin'..."

When the only thing that didn't come to a grinding halt as Kathryn and B'Elanna entered the restaurant were the holographic musician's playing on the stage in the back of the fairly small room, both women stopped at the front by the registration desk where they were supposed to wait to be seated and turned to each other casually, exhaling. Speaking first, Torres whispered, "Do you want to go?"

Janeway quickly looked around the bar and the various tables where her crew were still turned toward them, most of them with their mouths hanging open and said, "Absolutely not, darling." Smiling, she said, "This is wonderful…I'm sorry it's taken me so long to come by and check it out."

Sighing, Torres looked around and resisted the urge to flip off some of the crew that were still watching them and said, "Yea, it's okay…I wonder where Nick is?" Shrugging, she surmised, "I guess that they're not on until later." When the hostess came up to them, Torres put her arm around Janeway's back at her waist and answered the question, "Torres…party of two." Following the hostess and Janeway, Torres shot one couple a dangerous glance which silently warned them to mind their own damn business and then said to the hostess that showed them to the nicest table in the restaurant, Torres having paid extra rations to acquire it from another couple, "Thanks." Taking off her jacket and handing it on the coat rack in the corner by their table, Torres asked as she pulled the chair out for Janeway, "Do you want a drink? I'm gonna grab a beer from the bar."

"Thank you…the usual," Janeway answered smiling and pulled her chair closer. Since she was sitting with her back to the far wall so she could see almost the whole room, Kathryn forced herself to remain relaxed and not fidget with her hands or brush her hair behind her ears. Most of the people in the bar that had dropped everything when they caught glimpse of Torres and Janeway had turned back to their conversations and dinners, although, since every now and then she would spot someone glance in her direction, she had a pretty good idea who it was they were talking about.

Snatching up the beer and the captain's whiskey, Torres hurried back to the table, reminding herself to ask whoever programmed this place why they could only get snythehol from the bar, except for wine and champagne. Setting the captain's glass down on the table, Torres folded into the seat kiddy corner to the redhead and said, holding up her tall glass, "To making a statement."

Janeway smirked, nodded and said, touching her glass to Torres', "Here, here." Sipping on her drink as the band started playing another song, Janeway asked, "So Nick's in a band? I honestly didn't even know Voyager had a band."

"They're not official or anything…they just get together and jam sometimes…so I hear," Torres answered, leaning forward on her elbows to Janeway. "She told me she doesn't play with them that often because they don't really play her kind of music…but she's talked them into playing for an audience tonight. I guess they've been planning it for a while."

"Are they any good?"

"I guess? I've never heard them," Torres explained. "Nick played a little for Seven and I last night…we had dinner at her place…so I know that she's good." Taking a drink, she continued, "She plays the guitar…and the drums, but I think she's just playing the guitar tonight. She wouldn't give much away…but since she was playing tonight, I thought that it would be nice if we could stop by and lend our support."

Smiling, the captain responded, "You just came up with all of this last night? How did you get this table…it seems like the best one?"

"I've got my ways, Red," Torres smirked. "I had been thinking of it for a while…but when I heard Nick was going to be here, I thought it was time to do it. It will be nice to see a familiar face tonight…I think."

Nodding, Janeway glanced around the room and said, "Agreed." Then reaching across the table and touching Torres hand, Janeway said, happily, "I'm very glad that you and Nick are hitting it off so well. I think that's really wonderful."

Torres brought the captain's hand to her lips and said, "Thanks, Red…yea, me too. She's great…it's weird, but I kind of feel like we're sisters, almost. She's a hoot…and she even likes some of the same kind of music I do." Then laughing, she squeezed Janeway's hand and said, "She likes cowgirl music too…so I'm sure she'll play something you can enjoy."

"What makes you think I like folk music?" Janeway came back defiantly.

Torres sipped her beer and answered, letting Kathryn's hand go as the waiter approached, "Because I know you do…don't try to lie, farm girl."

"Good evening, Ladies," said the rather handsome and well dressed, tall and dark skinned waiter. "Would you care to see our menu selection or are you prepared to order?"

Answering for them both, Torres replied, "No, we're ready. She'll have the roasted chicken with pasta and steamed vegetables, and a house salad to start. I'll have the New York strip steak, rare, with a potato and whatever vegetable that comes with…and a bottle of your best champagne."

"Would you like a salad to start as well?" he asked cheerfully, obviously programmed to be polite no matter what was occurring, which only made Torres want to punch him in the face just to see how he would react.

"No…thanks." Turning to Janeway who was sitting back in her chair quietly, Torres asked, "Did you want anything else?"

Shaking her head, Janeway answered charming them all with her graciousness, "I'm fine, thank you."

The man nodded to them both and said, "Excellent. My name is Victor…don't hesitate to call me if you need anything at all."

As Victor started to leave, Torres said quietly to Janeway, "Excuse me for a sec." Then standing, she hurried over to the holographic waiter and said, "Hey Vic…I need a favor."

"Of course," the man smiled at her. "What can I do for you?"

"Unless you get totally slammed tonight," Torres whispered, "I'd like it if you could keep the two tables around us free. The woman I'm with is…a very important person and I don't want her to be bothered."

Victor glance back at Janeway who was staring into her glass, and said back, "I thought I recognized her. Tell me…is she in the theater or government?"

"Government," Torres answered, since that was a close to the truth that she could ask for, understanding that this holodeck simulation was based on a mixture of European folklore and early twentieth century America.

The dark man nodded with a certain amount of sophistication and said, "Ah, yes…she has that…regal way about her. I'll see to it, Miss. Now, if you'll excuse me…I must tend to my less…notable patrons."

Torres slapped him on the back, thanking him again and walked quickly over to the table, sitting down and scooting her chair over toward Janeway just a touch. "Where were we?"

"What was all that about?" asked Janeway eyeing Torres closely.

"Not a thing…just wanted to make sure he understood that if our food was cold, I wouldn't be pleased," Torres answered smiling and sipping her beer. Then snickering as Janeway pursed her lips in disbelief, Torres said, "Oh, and if Vic asks you what branch of the government you're in…just tell him it's top secret."

As requested, even though the holodeck did fill up somewhat, the two tables next to Janeway and Torres remained empty. Most of the people that came in after Janeway and Torres were there specifically to see the band since they arrived in larger groups and sat near the bar, leaving the table for the few people that were using the holodeck for more romantic purposes. Victor had been a perfect waiter, and only stopped by when he had something to drop off, and once to make certain their food was acceptable, and never once did he ask the captain where it was exactly she hailed from, but Torres had to laughed silently once when he referred to her as "my lady," and kissed her hand, which cause the captain to smile and blush openly.

Just as they finished their meal and started on their second glass of champagne, Torres whistled across the room, so she could be heard over the music, which caused Janeway to roll her eyes and chuckle, at Fowler who had just come into the bar. Most of the band was already present, setting up their equipment on the stage as background music played over the speakers. Then laughing as Fowler approached with her guitar case in her hand and wearing a pair of leather pants and a white button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up, Torres said once Fowler was near them, "Hey Nick…how many cows did you have to kill to make those pants?"

"Bite me, Torres," Fowler shot back quickly, but smiling, used to the Klingon's remarks about her height. "Sorry, Captain," Fowler apologized quickly, smiling at Janeway. "You look lovely, by the way."

"Thank you, Nick," Janeway smiled warmly. "Have a seat…there's plenty of room."

"Thanks, Captain, but I've got to go warm up," Fowler explained. "Mind if I steal your date for a minute though?"

Janeway grabbed her champagne and said, teasing, "By all means…just leaves more champagne for me."

Getting up and following the tall pilot, Torres smirked and said, "I'll remember that…be back in a minute." Moving up the bar with Fowler who ordered a beer, she said, "By the way…great outfit…especially the pants."

"Thanks," Fowler smiled leaning on the bar. Then looking at Torres, she said, "You clean up pretty good, Torres." Glancing over at Janeway, she smirked quietly, "So does the captain." Taking her beer, Fowler continued, "Like I said…that's one hell of a catch you made."

Torres looked over at Janeway fondly and sighed, "You have no idea…"

"So, how's it going?" asked the pilot. "Are we still on for plan A…or do we need to switch to plan B?"

"A all the way," Torres answered quickly, patting Fowler on the back. "I think I'm more nervous than she is."

Fowler glanced around the holodeck and asked as she talked, "How's the reaction been?"

"Weird…and quiet," Torres said turning around and leaning with her elbows on the bar. "I think everyone's waiting around to see what happens." Looking over at Nick, she said, "I just don't know yet…it's too hard to tell." Then spotting Ensign Rodriguez, who was a regular at date night, moving over to the captain, Torres said, "Whoa…wait…here's something."

Both Fowler and Torres watched as Voyager's playboy came up to the captain and said, "Pardon me, Captain…may I interrupt for a moment?"

"Of course, Richard," Janeway said pleasantly offering him a seat.

Waving his hand, he explained, "Thank you, but I'll only be a minute. I just wanted to say what a pleasant surprise it is to see you here tonight. You look stunning, as always. You really must let me dance with you once this evening. That gown is just screaming to sway to music."

Smiling in amusement at the beautiful man's mannerisms, always finding him completely charming, the captain answered, "I'd like that very much. Thank you."

"My pleasure, Captain…if you'll excuse me…I think I'll go pay my respects to Miss Torres," Richard smiled cheerfully walking toward Torres and Fowler. Then coming up to them, he said rather loudly and cranked up the zeal on purpose, "B'Elanna…darling, you look fabulous tonight." Then quieter, he said to her, "Don't worry…I just asked her to dance once. It's tradition." Looking over at Fowler, he said, "By the way, killer pants."

Since Torres was pretty well acquainted with the flamboyant and very popular man, Torres asked quickly, "Rick…what's the word on the street…honestly?"

"Myself included…everyone thinks you're a glutton for punishment," Richard explained. "Although, she is rather pinchable…oh, and praise Mary that you got rid of that horrid Tom Paris. He was no good for you." Glancing around quickly, he asked, "So, is this a real thing…or are you just testing the waters…because a little bird told me that you've been awfully friendly with a certain tall blonde with the cutest little implant over her brow recently? Which, by the way, proves that you've lost your pretty little ridged head." Looking at Fowler who was snickering, he shook his head and said with his hand on his hip, "Really, sweetie…a Borg and a captain…is it a Klingon thing?"

Torres patted him on the back and said, ignoring the question and the comments, "If you're gonna dance with her…do it to one of the first couple of songs, okay?"

Richard winked and said walking away, swinging his arm over his head, "Your wish is my command."

"Seven," questioned Naomi Wildman as she sat in the lounger in the bedroom of the Borg's and the captain's bedroom, the tall blonde sitting on the floor in front of her as the girl braided her hair, "where's all your stuff?"

"Explain 'stuff,'" responded the cool adult as she sat perfectly upright with her legs crossed under her as Naomi instructed that she do.

Sighing, not wanting to give her intentions away since she was bound and determined to be sneaky for the captain, the girl explained, "Your stuff…you know…where are your things?"

"I do not have any 'stuff,'" Seven of Nine informed. "The captain has enough 'stuff' for the both of us." Turning her head just slightly, she amended, "However, my biosuits, as well as the rest of my garments are in the closet."

"But don't you want stuff of your own?" asked the child easily. "I have stuff…I have lots of stuff."

"I do not require any more 'stuff," the ex-drone explained.

Sighing again, the child informed, "That's no fun…you should get some stuff."

"What is the purpose of acquiring items that I do no need?" Curious, Seven asked, "Why do you have 'stuff,' Naomi Wildman?"

"Because it's fun…Mommy gives me stuff to play with," the strawberry blonde girl explained quickly, excited since she knew that whenever Seven started asking questions that meant she was at least partially interested. "And I like to have stuff in my room that I like to look at. Like my stuffed animals and the pictures I drew in my art class." Finishing the Borg's hair, she asked, "Hey…do you want me to draw you a picture? Then you can have something to look at too?"

Standing when the child did so, Seven placed her hands behind her back and said, "Very well." Taking a moment to look around the room, noticing, not for the first time all of the captain's stuff: her lounger, the small nightstand next to it where she kept three of her all time favorite books out always, the picture of her sister and her mother and the small vase of flowers next to it, the Borg turned back toward the young girl and stated, "I enjoy the captain's 'stuff.' I do not believe I require more than what she has."

Frowning, Naomi informed, "Seven, you can't have the captain's stuff." Going over to the picture, she picked it up and said, "See, that's the captain's mommy…and her sister."

"I am aware of whom those individuals are," informed the Borg, but not unkindly. "I do not wish to have that item in particular. That item is special to the captain…it is why she keeps it here where she regenerates." Unwinding her hands, she picked it up, looking at the two women in the picture and informed as she gazed fondly it, "I was speaking of the captain's other possessions, such as this lounger, the bed, and the other furniture in this dwelling. They are not mine, however, I am allowed to utilize them freely." Setting the picture down carefully, she went on, "I do not require anything further."

"But don't you want something special to keep in here too?" Going over to the bed and sitting down on the edge, the young girl swung her feet and said, "I like to have stuff in my bedroom. I have a picture of my mommy and Neelix in there. Hey," standing she said, "can I get a picture of you to put in my bedroom too?"

"If you wish to have one, you may," Seven informed coming over to the bed and sitting on the edge so the young girl didn't have to look up at her so much. "What is the significance of these pictures?" Looking around the captain's room, she said, "The captain does not have any more pictures in here, however, she displays several others in her living room, as well as in her Ready Room." A little forlorn, Seven amended, "Although, the pictures in her Ready Room were lost recently." Sighing, Seven stated, "She was distressed."

"I don't know," the girl shrugged, "I just like to have them. I like to see my Mommy and Neelix before I go to sleep. How come the captain lost her pictures?"

Seven sighed heavily again, and stated, "It is complicated, Naomi Wildman. Suffice to say, the captain was required to sacrifice the personal possessions in her Ready Room in an attempt to protect this crew. We were able to replace her coffee set, however, her pictures we were not." Frowning, Seven went on, "It is unfortunate since she is fond of pictures, as are you."

"Don't you like pictures?"

Raising her eyebrow some, pondering the question, Seven finally stated, "I do not have any. I have not thought about it." Then looking over to the empty nightstand near her side of the bed, Seven stated, "I do not completely understand the need for them…however, I do not find them unpleasant. Perhaps I will acquire a picture?" Then looking down at the girl, she nodded and said, "I will acquire a picture of you as well."

"Neat!" Naomi said jumping up and down, thrilled that Seven would want a picture of her, but more so now because she knew exactly what she was going to tell the captain to get Seven for her birthday. Grabbing Seven's hand, she went on, "I'll make you a pretty picture in my art class, and then I'll have my mommy take a picture of me with the Doctor's holocamera, okay?"

"Very well…thank you, Naomi Wildman," Seven smiled softly. Then sitting up straighter after feeling the back of her hair where the young girl had done her best to braid it, she informed, "I believe it is time to engage in the 'girl talk' ritual. I have researched this in preparation for our sleepover." Looking down at the young girl who was seated next to her on the bed, she continued, "We must lie back and prepare for our regeneration cycle, and then we must not attempt to sleep until we have discussed a variety of subjects." Standing, she went over to the captain's side of the bed and stated, pulling the covers back, "You may utilize this side of the bed. This is where the captain prefers to regenerate…so I am accustomed to sleeping on the other side."

Wide-eyed and giddy, Naomi bounced up and down and said, "Seven! This is so NEAT." Rushing over to the bed, she looked at the empty spot carefully and then whispered, "The captain really sleeps here?"

Curious and smirking, Seven stated, "That is correct." When the girl didn't make a move to get in to the bed, the Borg gave her a small nudge and informed, "You may utilize this space. The captain is not disagreeable." After Naomi climbed into the bed tentatively as to not disturb anything, Seven went over to the other side, took her feet out of her slippers, placing them next to the bed straight and then asked, after she brought down the lights as she too climbed into bed, "What do you wish to discuss?"

As the tall Borg reclined next to her, Naomi asked, staring straight up at the ceiling and folding her hands on her chest, "I don't know…what do you and the captain talk about?"

"We speak on a variety of subjects," the blonde informed. "We often discuss the day's events. The captain inquires as to my well being since we do not interact often during our duty-shifts. Many times we do not speak at length, however. She is often depleted and is required to regenerate immediately." Sighing, Seven stated, "We have not spent a great deal of time performing this ritual. She is 'busy,' as you know…and before my procedure I was required to regenerate often, so I was unable to converse with her for long periods of time."

Turning over on her side, Naomi smiled and said, looking at her friend, "Seven, I think the captain is so neat. What does she wear to bed?"

The blonde turned only her head toward the child and answered, "She has several garments that she wears. Her preference is a nightgown, however."

Since she was wearing a nightgown as well, Naomi pushed herself up and asked, hurriedly, "Is it like mine?"

"No…the material is different," Seven informed looking at the youngster's white, cotton gown. "There are no sleeves and it is pink."

Laying back down, scooting closer to Seven, the girl said wistfully, "That sounds pretty. I think the captain is so pretty. Do you think she's pretty?"

"Yes."

Giggling, the girl whispered, "Seven, this is so neat!"

The cool blonde smirked and said, "You have said that on several occasions this evening. I am pleased that you are enjoying yourself. I too find this sleepover…'neat.' What is it that you wish to discuss now…or did you wish to speak of the captain further?"

Sighing blissfully, the younger female turned over on her back and said, "Let's talk about the captain. I like talking about her. Do you like talking about her?"

"The captain is a preferred subject of mine," Seven informed nodding her head once. "Very well, what do you wish to discuss about the captain?"

Thinking hard and excited, she asked, "Umm…what's her favorite color?"

"She has two…red and white," the Borg explained. "She wears both of those colors consistently as well as decorates her quarters and her office with flowers of the same color. She is also fond of blue, but unfortunately rarely wears it."

"Why is that bad?"

"She is…'pretty' in blue," Seven informed easily. Turning her head back toward the girl, she stated, "Blue enhances the color of her eyes…since they are bluish grey as well. The color also enhances that color of her hair." After a beat, she went on, "You and she have similar colored hair and eyes, and are the only individuals aboard this vessel with those attributes. I have been pondering replicating a blue shirt for the captain. I will replicate one of similar color for you as well."

Sitting upright and giggling as she bounced, Naomi shrieked in excitement, "NEAT! Thanks Seven…then I can look pretty like the captain."

"You are welcome. You will undoubtedly look pretty."

Sinking back down into the bed, Naomi hugged Seven and said, "I think you're pretty too, Seven."

"Thank you."

Giggling, the little redhead whispered, "Seven…can I tell you a secret?"

"You may."

"You promise not to tell?"

"I will not."

Cupping her hand and whispering into the tall blondes ear, she smiled and said, "The captain thinks you're pretty too."

When the young girl pulled away and started giggling with glee, Seven smirked and said, "Indeed. And how do you know this?"

Still speaking softly, certain that Janeway was going to come in at any moment and catch her tattling, she informed, "When you came into her office the other day and brought that report while I was in there," laughing more and covering her mouth, she managed, "I said that you were so pretty, and she said, 'Yes, Seven is very pretty.'" Then turning serious again, she said, "You can't tell her, Seven."

Smiling, the Borg said, "I will not…on my honor."

"Seven?"

"Yes."

"I love you."

"I love you as well, Naomi Wildman," the blonde said wrapping her arm around her dear friend. Sighing, she stated, "I believe it is now time for us to regenerate. We are under direct orders from the captain to do so at a reasonable hour."

Cuddling with Seven, Naomi said, "I will comply."

"You're as graceful as ever, Richard," Janeway whispered to the tall man leading her around the floor to a fairly moderate ballad.

"As are you, Madam," the ensign responded politely. "It's really is a pleasure to dance with someone who knows what she's doing…we always did waltz famously. It's a dying art, I'm afraid." After the captain nodded in rueful agreement, he said, spinning her easily, "By the way, this gown is gorgeous. It must be new because I would never forget such a masterpiece."

"No, but I don't think I've ever worn it out for several years," Janeway explained. Smiling, she offered, "I'm sure the pattern is available in the database."

Richard laughed quietly and replied, "How very kind of you, Captain…but I'd never be able to pull it off…too broad through the shoulders, I'm afraid." As the music started winding down, he said, "You know, I designed a cream pants suit with embroider cuffs that would look just fabulous on you. I never was happy with how the jacket hung…it's rather long, so I recycled it, but I'm certain you could pull it off. Shall I send you the pattern?"

"Thank you…it sounds lovely," Janeway answered. Then smirking, she said, "Don't take this the wrong way, Richard…but how on earth did you end up in Starfleet…seems to me you should be in Paris designing clothes and arranging fashion shows?"

"Diplomacy and foreign relations are my specialty," he explained quickly, taking no offense. "It's just exciting. I was always interested. Culture is my lifeblood…and the best way to learn about other cultures is to soar through the heavens." Smiling brightly, he finished, "Plus, I'm always inspired creatively with regards to fashion after encountering a new species…well, most of the time. Sometimes, I just cringe and want to say, "Honey…no, that's all wrong"…but that would be rude, so I refrain."

Coming to a stop, Janeway said, "Well, the next time I need a fashion consultant…I'll know where to go."

Bowing to the captain, he said, "My talents are at your service." Then kissing her hand, he said, "Thank you for another delightful dance."

"Always a pleasure," the captain said bowing her head. Then once he released her, she stopped by the bar to get another drink as Nicole stepped onto the stage and joined the band with her acoustic guitar. Taking her drink, Janeway quickly moved back to her table where Torres was sitting comfortably. Sliding up next to her, she whispered, "Looks like I'm just in time."

Torres put her arm around Janeway and whispered quickly, "Are you having a good time?"

Janeway nodded and said, "Wonderful." When Nicole stepped up to the microphone and tapped on it to make certain it was on, the captain said hurriedly, "This is rather exciting."

"Just wait, Red…she's really good."

Clearing her throat, Fowler said to the crowd, "Hi everyone…before we begin I'd like to thank the rest of the band for letting me sit in with them tonight." After nodding her head to them, she turned forward and continued, "I'll be taking over for a little while…so if you have any requests for them, you should get them in soon." Then pulling up a stool, she went on, "Most of these songs are a couple hundred years old and by American artists. I'll try to mix it up a little…and please feel free to dance and sing along it you know the words. Since the last one was a ballad…I'd like to start with something a little more upbeat. This one's called Angels Would Fall." When Torres hollered her appreciation, Fowler smiled and said to the brunette, "Only you would know this song, Torres." Then nodding to the drummer and the electric guitar player, she counted out the beginning and started the song.

"Thanks," Nick smiled after the song while the crowd cheered loudly. Holding out her hand to the electric guitar player, she said, "Ensign Lyle Sanders…on the electric guitar and back up vocals….you rock man." As everyone stopped clapping and settled back into their seats, Fowler said, "Okay…let's do one from the Indigo Girls…how about Joking?" When the band nodded in agreement since they had several songs that they knew from of each of Fowler's favorite artists so they could alter their routine, she looked over to Torres, and asked, "Are you gonna come up here and sing with me…I know you know this song?"

The engineer was honestly surprised by the question. She had sung a little with Nicole last night, but nothing serious, and they certainly hadn't discussed the Klingon showing off her passionate vocal ability. Shaking her head no, Torres yelled, "Nope…this is your show…I'm just watching."

When the crowd started to get behind Nicole, yelling for B'Elanna to join her, Fowler said to Torres as the captain turned to the engineer and smiled, shaking her head saying she'd love to see that silently, "Come on, Torres…just one song…this one needs two."

B'Elanna knew that was true, and it was one of her favorite songs of all-time, so looking over at Janeway, Torres asked, "You don't mind? I don't want to leave you here by yourself."

"Nonsense…go up there," Janeway whispered, nodding toward the stage.

Kissing Janeway on the cheek, she said, "Thanks, Red." Then running up to the stage, she jumped up and waved as everyone cheered and whistled. Speaking into second microphone, she said, "Alright…shut up." Then looking over at Fowler, she covered the mic and asked, "Are you doing the lead or me?"

"You…you're voice is harder than mine…plus, that way I can play the lead," Fowler said smiling. Staying with the acoustic guitar as the ensign behind her switched as well, telling him she would play the lead acoustic guitar instead, she asked the engineer, "Do you know all the words?"

Torres nodded, and gave her a thumb's up, saying, "Do you think I'd be up here if I didn't?" Then laughing, she said into the microphone as the crowd started to get restless, "Hold your horses." After Nick explained how they would start, Torres nodded and said to the crowd, "Okay…we're ready…now, I've had some champagne…so don't boo me off the stage or I'll break all your noses." When everyone laughed, Torres cleared her throat and nodded to Fowler to begin.

Nicole counted by tapping her foot as the ensign came up next to her so they could play together and started strumming her guitar. And when it was time for Torres to sing, she nodded her head to the brunette that was watching them for her cue.

Looking over to Janeway and smiling as the captain leaned back in her chair and watched happily, she sang the first part to her only before she turned and faced the whole audience when Fowler started harmonizing with her:

We talked about our mothers kissing wounds of our fathers
I could have been your sister, I would have been your brother.
You kissed me like I was a soldier, headed for war
I'm a dying man, but I don't know what for
And you were only jokin'...you were only jokin' brother
And you were only jokin'...you were only jokin' brother

"B'Elanna Torres!" Fowler yelled over the crowd and pointing to the brunette as they all stood and cheered the engineer for doing such a wonderful job entertaining them. After hugging Torres, Fowler said into the microphone as the engineer left the stage in a hurry, ready to get back to her date who was eagerly waiting for her, "We're going to take a quick break to recover…and then we'll get back to some more danceable songs…promise." Gathering up her beer, she walked over to the captain's table where the two were gesturing that she should join them, and said to Torres as she sat, "Torres, you've got one hell of a voice…we've got to that again sometime."

"Thanks, Nick," Torres smiled putting her arm around Janeway. "Yea, I'd love to play with you…just let me know when." After sipping her beer, she asked, "So, what are you playing next?"

"We've got some slower songs to do," Fowler answered nodding to Torres who she knew was inquiring when she was going to get a chance to dance with Janeway, which was part of their plan. Then looking over at the captain who was looking over at B'Elanna, she asked, "You're a country fan, aren't you, Captain?"

Janeway nodded as Torres snickered, elbowed her lover and said, "Yes…I am. Why?"

Fowler got up from the table and said, "I just wanted to make sure that I'm not the only one in the room enjoying the next two songs." Leaning over the table some, she whispered to Torres "And if you laugh at my southern accent, I'll kick your butt." Then jumping up on the stage, Fowler pulled up her stool after whispering to the band what they would be playing, and said into the microphone after adjusting the height, "Okay, this one's called Neon Moon."

Recognizing the name of the song as one of the one's she and Fowler had practiced dancing to last night, the pilot teaching the engineer how to slow dance to this type of music, and once the music started, Torres stood, held her hand out and asked, "Dance with me?"

Janeway smiled, surprised that Torres would ask her to dance to such a song, took her hand and said, "I'd love to." Then when Torres whirled her around gently and started leading rather well, pulling her close, Janeway tightened her grip, resting her head on her shoulder and whispered, "Either, you planned this…or you've been holding out on me?"

"I've got my ways," Torres answered and then started singing softly to the music against the captain's neck, holding her close and swinging them to the beat, taking up the whole dance floor since no one else was on it yet.

When Torres twirled her, Janeway glanced up at Fowler who was singing with a pretty big smile on her face and she knew that her new pilot was definitely in on the plan. Then coming back to Torres easily as they fell right back into step, Janeway said into her ear, "Darling…I don't know what trouble you've gone to for me…but thank you. I'm having a wonderful time." Resting her head back on Torres' shoulder, she said, sincerely, "I love you so much, Lanna…you have no idea."

When the song finished and Fowler said quickly that the dancers should stay out on the floor for the next one, Torres asked, "You up for one more before we get out of here?"

Nodding, the captain said quietly, "I could dance with you all night. We can stay as long as you want."

Fowler cleared her throat as Torres and Janeway whispered quietly to each other and said, "I don't sing many mushy love songs…but this one's pretty nice. It's called Now That I've Found You." Then looking over at the band, she nodded at the other guitarist who pulled up a chair next to her and explained to him, "Let's just keep it soft…just acoustic tonight…and let's do the final verse twice." When he nodded and said into the microphone, "This one goes out to some nice folks I know."

As the music started playing, Torres whispered to the captain and said, "This ones for you."

Janeway sighed and smiled, looking into Torres' eyes and admitted, "I know this song…it's very beautiful." Then glancing around the room, the captain whispered, letting the engineer pull her closer again, and speaking back into her ear, "You know this is going to make me cry..."

"How can I believe that my heart would find someone like you
You see the real me no in between I have no where to hide.

Torres squeezed the redhead and said, "No it won't…trust me." When Janeway chuckled against her chest, Torres let go of the captain's hand after she placed it on her shoulder, and grabbed her hips, keeping her close.

You took away the walls around me…make me feel safe to share my truth…
I see the heavens open…a heart the once was broken
Is holding nothing back…now that I've found you
You hold me like a prayer, you touch me everywhere
A lifetime just ain't enough to love you true…
Now that I've found you…"

When the captain felt Torres' breath on her neck and then the slight touch of her lips, Janeway inhaled and said, huskily, "I lied…"

"About what?" asked the engineer, kissing her neck once more while no one was on that side of her to see what she was doing.

"I don't want to dance all night," the older woman explained pressing her body into the engineer's. "At least…not here."

Torres pulled her head back and moved it so she could look at the captain in the eye, then she smiled when she saw the truth in them, and said, "Okay…why don't you wait for me outside…I need to say thanks Nick and pay the bill."

Janeway nodded at the end of the song, waved quickly at Fowler, then turned not looking back and headed toward the exit, stopping momentarily to greet a few crewmembers who were acknowledging her.

Torres did her best to not look rushed and walked over to their table. Gathering up her jacket and putting it on as she walked over to the stage before the next song began, she said to Fowler, climbing up on it, extending her hand, "Thanks, Nick…I owe you one."

Fowler shook Torres hand and responded, "More like five…but I'll settle for one. You two leaving already?"

"Yea…we'll stay for the whole set next time," Torres said quietly. "But it's kind of a special night for us."

"Understood," Fowler bobbed her head, grinning, knowingly. "Have a good night."

After authorizing the ration deduction from her personal allowance, which set her back enough that she knew she'd be eating in the Mess Hall for every meal for the next week, unless someone else paid, but feeling as though it was definitely worth the sacrifice, Torres met the captain in the hall and started back toward the turbolift, not touching her and waiting for her to make any gesture.

The captain wrapped her arm under the Klingon's and said, "Thank you again…I haven't had that much fun in I don't know when." Sighing, she continued, "For a while, I actually forgot where we were. It was nice to feel that way."

Stepping into the turbolift, Torres said, "Deck Ten," and then turned to Janeway, saying, "I'm glad, Red…and thanks for letting me play with Nick. That was a blast."

"You've got such a wonderful voice," Janeway smiled openly with enthusiasm, knowing she would never forget Torres tearing it up on the small stage with her partner in crime right next to her. "I'm glad that you've found someone who you can sing with. I think it would do us all good to unwind like that more often. Will you tell Nick that anytime she wants to play at one of our gatherings…she is more than welcome? She's really marvelous…I had no idea."

As the doors parted, the two women stepped around three people that were waiting for the lift and Torres said, not paying them any attention, "Sure…I think after tonight I won't have to do much persuading though. You wouldn't know it by looking at her, but this is the first time she's played with the band at a ship event…I guess most of the other times were just small practice sessions in the holodeck."

Stepping into Torres quarters, Janeway said, "I have a feeling this whole promotion situation has given her back a lot of confidence…she seems to really be hitting her stride right now." Then looking around the engineer's room that was practically spotless except for the engineer's uniform that was strewn across the floor leading to the bathroom, Janeway laughed and said, "Let me guess…Seven?"

Taking off her coat, the brunette smiled, hanging it on the back of her chair, "Of course…apparently, I am inefficient." Then walking up to Janeway and removing the scarf from her neck, she continued, "I tried to tell her that when everything is put away, I can't ever find it…but you can see how that went over." Placing the captain's scarf over her jacket carefully, not wanting it to get ruined since it was so delicate, she asked, "You want something to drink?"

"I'll have a little of whatever you're having," Janeway answered walking toward the bathroom. "I'll be right out." After using the restroom and taking a minute to wash up and relax since she was feeling rather nervous all of the sudden, Janeway came out of the bathroom and smiled, chuckling softly just once. Torres had brought down the lights to minimum and lit a few candles as well as requested that the computer play the captain's favorite instrumental music. Coming up to her as she sat at the table, with her back to the bathroom sipping some water, Janeway placed her hands on Torres' shoulders and asked, "What are you drinking?"

"Just water," Torres said, lifting the glass and handing it to Janeway. Then standing, she waited for the captain to set the glass down before she approached her and asked, "Do you want to dance again?"

"I'd like that."

Easily, Torres pulled Janeway close to her and then hugged her before they started dancing and said, "Oh, I love you, Red…you are so special to me." Then relaxing and letting her hands fall to the captain's hips, she asked as they started to sway to the music, "Are you nervous?"

"A little," Janeway admitted pulling her head back so she could look at Torres, "but I feel better now that we're alone…and I don't feel like everyone is watching me."

"Is there anything specific you need from me?"

Janeway rested her head against Torres' forehead as they danced and whispered, "No…just love me." The looking up, the captain said with longing in her voice, "Just love me like you do."

Pulling Janeway close to her again, rubbing her hands over her back where it was exposed, Torres said kissing her neck near her ear, "I will…I promise."

Titling her head to give the brunette more access, Janeway breathed as Torres kissed her favorite spot, "You won't hold back?"

"No…I won't, but you have to tell me if you want to stop."

"I will…mmm…that's nice, darling," Janeway cooed, biting her bottom lip as she got the chills. After several minutes when Torres had not yet bitten or nibbled on Janeway's neck, which was standard treatment from Torres who was aware that at least in the past, the captain enjoyed that, the captain understood that even though Torres had said she wouldn't hold back, she was still concerned that she wouldn't like that anymore. So, letting her actions speak for her, Janeway started in on Torres' neck softly, but building after a few moments. And when she heard B'Elanna inhale in pleasure, Janeway used her teeth and then her tongue, licking the area she had bitten immediately, hoping her lover would understand what she was trying to do. When Torres repeated her actions, a little tentatively, Janeway arched her back and moaned, "Yes…Lanna…don't be afraid."

Quickly, Torres moved to the other side of the captain's neck, attacking it with reckless abandon, letting go of her fears and when she bit Janeway again, harder this time, using the amount of pressure she normally did, the captain responded immediately moaning louder and urging her on. Healing the mark with her tongue, Torres moved her kisses to the captain's chin and then finally to her mouth. The impact was electric, both women feeling the pulse of arousal cascading throughout their bodies on impact. When Kathryn moaned as Torres deepened the kiss, the engineer reached down and tore off her own shirt quickly, sending it flying across the room to be picked up and repaired later.

Placing her hands on Torres's bare upper chest, Janeway let one hand fall down to the Klingon's black bra and with little effort, she slipped her palm into the cup, which caused B'Elanna to growl deep in her throat. With a good deal of pressure, the captain massaged B'Elanna's breast in her hand as she reached around the back and searched blindly for the hook. Not feeling any kind of release, she pulled away for a second and looked down to see that the garment clasped in the front. Bringing both hands to the front, she attempt to unhook it, then finally had to sigh as the chief clasped onto her hands that were visibly shaking and whispered, "Will you do it?"

Softly, B'Elanna said holding onto the older woman's small, softer hands, and started, swallowing, feeling suddenly like maybe this wasn't such a good idea, "Kathryn…I…"

"Darling," Janeway sighed and said shyly, "I'm not nervous because of…why you think." Pulling her hands away and putting them on the Klingon's face, she explained, "I…this just feels like the first time all over again for us. I can't explain it, but I know it's special…that's why I'm nervous." Then leaning forward and kissing Torres softly, she whispered, "Please…I need you to take control…I can't do it tonight." Hugging her tightly, she murmured into her neck, "Please, darling…just love me like you do. I need you."

For several minutes Torres just held the captain close as she breathed deeply and pulled herself together, feeling suddenly like she was going to break down and cry if she didn't take some time to relax. She wasn't sure what was going on with her either, but for some reason, she felt like she was about to make love to Kathryn for the first time as well. It really made very little sense to her, but the sensation was undeniable. She knew it wasn't because the other times they had been together had just been sex, or anything like that…she had loved Kathryn those other times with true love in her heart, she knew. She wondered if it was because they had just taken such a big step as far as making their relationship public knowledge, but honestly, she wasn't certain. The only thing she did know that suddenly her chest felt so completely full of warmth and passion that she was afraid if she acted on it, it was going to kill her, but also afraid that if she didn't let it out, that would kill her too. Taking one final deep breath, Torres pulled the captain into her chest as tight as she could and said, "I love you, Kathryn…I love you…I love you so much. I can't even say it enough." Then pulling back a little, she sighed and laughed a little, "I feel like I'm going to blow up."

Janeway sighed and nodded adamantly, looking down and swallowing, having difficulty herself, and just as she looked up, Torres grabbed her face and began kissing her mouth with a tender fierceness she had never done before, and all the captain could do was hold on for dear life as she melted into the embrace. After a few moments as her body started coming back to her, and she was able to move her hands again, feeling the confidence and security of her own mind pulsing through her veins, the captain brought up her hands to Torres' bra, unhooking it easily as she felt the brunette releasing the button behind her neck. Feeling the silky fabric fall away from her neck and stop at her chest as she took off B'Elanna's black bra, she took a small step backward and let her dress fall down her body and puddle evenly at her feet.

Running her hands up and down Janeway's bare back with both hands as the captain wrapped both of her thin arms around her neck while she kicked off her shoes, Torres already taking hers off while Janeway was in the bathroom, keeping their bodies pressed together as the continued to kiss passionately, the Klingon let her hand fall to the captain's bottom. It only took the slightest amount of pressure for her lover to sense her intentions, and as Torres lifted her easily, Janeway responded by holding on tighter and wrapping her legs around the stocky, muscled and incredibly strong woman's hips. Since they were fairly close to the bed, the engineer's quarters not very big at all, Torres walked them easily over to it and set them down, putting the captain on her back as was habit, pushing away her final fears that she should amend her habits for Kathryn's comfort and trusting that if she became uncomfortable, she would tell her. Sliding Janeway up toward the top and letting her head rest on the pillow, Torres settled in firmly on top of her, still wearing her pants, and the captain still in her thin, lacing underwear. Showering the captain with kisses all over her face, Torres said, "I love you, Red…I love you so much…you'll never know how much." Then moving down to her neck and ear, kissing that area passionately as Janeway started to breathe much heavier, Torres asked, "Is there anything specific you want?"

Grabbing Torres and pulling her down tight onto her, Janeway answered, "Just stay up here with me…I need you close tonight." Then running her hands all over Torres' back, delighting herself in the strong muscles she felt there, she said, kissing her neck, "Mmm…and leave the pants on…at least for a while."

Torres brought her head up so she could see the captain's face, and asked, smiling, "You want me to leave my pants on?"

"Mmm…yes," Janeway said kissing and nipping at her chin. "You're so sexy like this…I can't explain it." Bringing her hand to her lover's chest, she explained further, starting in on her neck again, "It's very sexy…masculine, but feminine at the same time." Up at Torres' ear and speaking directly into it, she hissed, "I think that's why you make me so crazy, daring…I can't explain it. You make tremble…just looking at you like this." Then chuckling, she said, "Maybe it's a Klingon thing?"

Turning on the heady sexuality side of her, leaving the ivory and lacy emotion in it's wake, for the moment, since she knew that was what the captain wanted…that was what brought them together, what they both liked, Torres grin, pressing her body into Janeway's firmly and said, "So, I'm guessing you like B'Elanna Torres…Klingon?"

Gasping a little, pulling Torres closer to her and wrapping her legs around her body, she informed, "Oh yes…I like her very much." When Torres put her hand on the captain chest and started kissing her neck, biting and licking without fear, Janeway moaned, "Yes…I like her…mmm…yes, darling…that's good." To further her cause, Janeway honed her hands in on Torres' back, starting at the top of her spine and pressing her fingers into the muscles around the dense bones, which she knew her lover enjoyed a great deal. When Torres reared her head back, snarling some, Janeway chuckled then bit down on her lip as she saw the electric flare in her lover's brown eyes.

Sitting up from a moment, B'Elanna kept her greedy hands on the captain's torso and practically worshipped her flesh with her hands and her eyes as Janeway stretched out languid, her long, wiry arms above her head as her legs remained bent around Torres' body that was seated right between them. Then pulling the captain up by wrapping on arm around her back, she kissed her passionately, keeping Janeway up in the air, wrapped around her body as she knelt. Turning around, Torres laid down on her back, but remained in control, even when she pushed the captain up into a sitting position as she straddled her legs by keeping her firmly in her grasp, still pleasuring her chest and torso with heavy hands. Then bringing one hand up to the captain's face, she slipped the other one down between her legs. Since the captain still was wearing her thin underwear, Torres smiled as the captain's head lulled back at the contact, and she knew she had guessed right with continuing to draw this encounter out, knowing first hand that once Janeway had had enough teasing, she would inform her lover, probably rather pointedly as she tended to do. Once she was happy that Kathryn was thoroughly ready, which was fairly obvious since Janeway was now leaned forward somewhat, pressing her hips into Torres' hand and panting, although remaining a lot more quiet than normal, but she was certain that the captain was merely attempting to restrain herself since they were in the engineer's quarters, and they weren't nearly as soundproofed as the captain's, and not because there was anything amiss. Torres sat up again, kissing the captain with wanton desire, growling in her throat, turned them over and grasped the front of Kathryn's underwear, pulling them down. Quickly, remembering that Janeway had said she needed her close this night, Torres moved down her body and removed them completely, tossing them recklessly across the room. Then back up at the captain's head, she rested her hand on Janeway's hip, close to her inner thigh and said, "I'm here, baby…I want you to look at me." At her lips, she smiled and said, "I want to see you…don't look away from me."

Nodding, Janeway smiled back, looking Torres directly in the eye, and breathed, "I'm here." Then inhaling deep through her nose and exhaling, she brought her hand up to Torres' face and whispered, "Make love to me, Lanna…please…touch me." When she felt the Klingon's hands on her body, strong and sure, but still soft and tender, the captain had a difficult time not closing her eyes in pleasure, but as Torres held her close and hovered right above her head, the captain fought through the natural reaction, and grasped onto her tanned lover's face with both hands, saying softly, "I'm here…don't stop…please, don't stop."

As she continued to make love to Janeway, Torres took a minute to kiss the captain on the lips, both of them closing their eyes for that instant, and then when Janeway whimpered as her body started rocking with the movement of her hand, B'Elanna pulled back on her head, and was happy when Kathryn opened her eyes immediately. Increasing the motion, she put her head right over the redhead, remaining quiet but intense. When her fingers continued to skid across the captain's opening, she held them there for an instant and waited for a response. When Kathryn brought both hands to Torres' face again and nodded, the engineer held her even tighter as she eased inside.

The captain had to close her eyes for a moment, not able to help herself, but as soon as she was able, she opened them again, staring directly into her lover's shadowy, but intense eyes, seeing a love like she had never dreamed in them, which caused her body to tremble and shuddered almost immediately at the sensation. Having to move one hand away, Janeway grasped onto the side of the bed since she couldn't close her eyes, and wanted to remain quiet since it seemed that she should for some reason, not wanting anything to distract from their stare. Within half a minute, Janeway felt the building within her, and even though she was staring straight ahead, she began to pant heavily, and licking her lips that were dry in the hot air, she could only whisper as she started to climax, "Lanna…Lanna…Lanna."

As the captain's body grew rigid and her eyes closed on their own accord, Torres surged forward and kissed the captain for all she was worth, guiding her through the moment until they came to a shaky rest, both of them quaking and breathing heavily, even though there had been little in the way of physical exertion, as was a normal occurrence for the two women. When the captain shuddered as she whimpered, then latched onto her tightly and started to cry as Torres had honestly expected, and was prepared for, B'Elanna gathered Kathryn up in her arms and managed to pull the covers of her bed down and then over them, not wanting to do anything more for the rest of the night but hold this woman in her arms until Kathryn fell asleep…and that is exactly what happened.

"Mmm….good morning, sleepy head," Janeway cooed into Torres ear as she slowly summoned her lover awake by the slow, languid motion of her hand that was trailing up and down the Klingon's firm, olive torso. Chuckling, she whispered as B'Elanna stirred, pulling her in tighter toward her body, "You still have your pants on."

Yawning and turning more toward Kathryn, B'Elanna asked, "I thought you liked my pants?" still sleepy and subdued, but much more cheerful than she usually was when she woke.

"I love your pants," Janeway smiled cuddling tighter with her lover, "but not as much as I love you." Pulling the blanket up over them higher, she sighed, "Oh, I don't want to go. This is so much better than work."

Smiling and finally opening her eyes, Torres kissed the top of Kathryn's head and said, "Well, you won't get any argument from me, Red…but don't tell the captain I said that. She'd just probably stop by Engineering again…and well, you know how I get when she comes around."

Janeway pinched Torres and laughed into her upper chest, "I won't tell her." Then after a few moments and tracing her finger up and down Torres spine, she said softly, "Thank you for last night, darling." Looking up at her face, she smiled somewhat shyly and continued, "You always seem to know exactly what I need."

Pulling Janeway up on top of her, Torres smiled and informed, "That's my job…you're my girl, remember?"

Kathryn sighed, letting Torres hold her as she rested her head on her upper chest and said, "Oh, I remember…I don't think I'll ever forget." Shaking her head as she guided her fingers over Torres' collarbone, "I don't know what I ever did to deserve you, B'Elanna Torres…Klingon?"

"Without you, Red…there would be no B'Elanna Torres…Klingon," the engineer explained seriously having thought the recent series of events through in depth last evening before she was able to sleep as well. "That's what you did. You helped me find that balance I've been searching for my whole life." Rolling over so they were facing each other again, she went on, "You have no idea how crazy it feels to be me, sometimes…but somehow, by loving you, I figured out where I fit into myself." Smiling brightly, she informed, "You have no idea how good that feels, either." Sighing, she leaned back and laughed, "Kathryn, you can't believe the things that go through my head sometimes…it's like night and day. One minute I want to fall on the ground and cry like a baby, and the next I want to punch everyone in the face." Sighing again, but happily, she finished, "I used to blame my Klingon side for everything….god, I hated it, but now," turning back toward her, "now, I…I like it. I want it…I just never understood it enough, I guess. But you…you bring this side out in me, and you don't fight it, you embrace it…and I can't tell you how good that feels."

Speechless, all the captain could do was smile. Bringing up her hands to Torres' forehead, tracing the ridges there, she finally sighed and managed, her voice faint and breathless, "I don't know what to say."

Happily, Torres growled, playing, rolling them over and said, "You don't have to say anything. You are just you…and you didn't do anything special…except be you. And for some reason, falling all over you for so long just did the trick, I guess. I don't think I'll ever know…but I'm not going to worry about it." Smiling, she kissed the captain quickly and informed, "I'm just going to be me…stop fighting myself all the time and just act how I feel I need to. Honestly, I feel like I need to be Klingon….and I think I'm okay with that, and if I have to cry every now and then, then I'll cry, but I can't turn away from what's inside of me anymore." Kissing the captain again, she went on, "And what's inside of me tells me that I love you, that you're my redhead Captain Cowgirl, and that your honor is mine to protect. So you don't need to thank me for last night…that was just me being me."

"Lanna."

"Red."

Smiling with mist in her eyes, she whispered, "You make your heritage, both of them, very proud."

Somewhat lazily, Kathryn walked back to her quarters freshly showered, although still wearing her evening gown from last night since she didn't have a spare uniform in her engineer's quarters, and she didn't want to replicate another because she already had four in her closet. Barefoot, holding her silk scarf in one hand and her sandals in the other, the captain covered a blissful yawn with the back of her hand as she exited the turbolift on Deck Three, her already pleasant expression brightening a great deal when the pneumatic doors parted to reveal Seven of Nine wearing the captain's favorite silver biosuit and Naomi Wildman, dressed in a denim jumper with a bright orange t-shirt underneath. Her voice warm and husky, she greeted, "Good morning, ladies."

"Captain!" Naomi perked up immediately, having been somewhat sad that her sleepover with the tall Borg was over. Her eyes growing wide as Janeway stepped out of the lift, the young girl grabbed the captain's hand and said, smiling grandly, "Wow…that dress is so pretty. Seven!" the child turned to the blonde who was gazing at the captain silent but intense, "you were right…she looks so pretty in blue."

As Seven of Nine's normally alabaster cheeks began to turn a rather bright red, Janeway jumped in quickly to save her Astrometrics officer and said, smiling, "Thank you, Miss Wildman." Then tapping her on the shoulder, she winked and said, "I like this too…is it new?"

Bouncing slightly, the little redhead answered, "Yes, Captain…Mommy just replicated it for me last week." Giggling, she explained, "Mommy says that if I don't stop growing so fast, she's gonna have to ask you for more rations."

Janeway glanced up at Seven for a moment to make certain she was recovering steadily, which she was, and said, patting her assistant on the shoulder, "Well, you just tell your mother to come see me if she needs anything okay?"

"Aye, Captain."

Placing her hand on the child's back, Seven said in her crisp monotone voice, regaining her composure, "Naomi Wildman, we are holding up the turbolift. It is time for you to return to your dwelling as your mother instructed."

Naomi sighed and said, releasing the captain's hand, "I will comply." Then perking up as Janeway nodded and started toward her cabin, "Bye, Captain…I'll see you later."

Turning her shoulder and waving, Janeway smiled and said, "I look forward to it, Miss Wildman." Then grinning over her shoulder crookedly at Seven of Nine, Janeway turned the corner and started back toward her quarters. Quickly, she rushed past Chakotay's since she and him always seemed to meet in the hallway, and she knew that he usually left his cabin fairly early to take a small walk around the ship and catch up on the latest gossip from his 'sources.' The captain had always thought it was rather comical that he paid so much attention to ship rumor, but as the years wore on, she came to understand that it was part of this job to keep on top of what the crew was talking about and what things were happening that weren't 'official' knowledge. When he didn't come out, she sighed in relief and headed into her cabin, knowing just exactly what was going to be the topic of discussion aboard her vessel for probably several days: B'Elanna Torres and herself. Normally something like that would make the captain fairly anxious, but today, she knew she was going to be down right jumpy because she had a meeting in the early afternoon with Tom Paris. When Torres had first approached her about having dinner, she hadn't really thought about it too much, and it wasn't until several hours later after checking her appointments for the next day, always liking to be prepared before she went to work, that she remembered that she had scheduled a very important meeting with her rebellious pilot. But after a few minutes of thought, she decided to not cancel her date because she had a pretty good suspicion that Paris was aware that at least something was going on between them, and because she really didn't want to give Tom Paris that kind of power over her life because frankly, she felt he really didn't deserve to have his feelings protected in this matter.

Going directly for the replicator, having spent too much time in the shower with her Klingon lover talking and kissing this morning to have time to share a cup with her, the captain ordered a small cup of java and took a few moments to enjoy the beverage near the replication device. Then slowly walking toward her bedroom, she took a few more sips before she set the silver mug down on the small table near her lounger and headed into the closet. Putting away her shoes and her silk scarf, the captain fumbled with the button at the back of her neck for a few seconds and then let the silky material fall off her shoulders once her efforts were successful. After stepping out of it, she took the garment to the replicator and ran it through the recycling mode, which separated the actual material from any dirt or other accumulated substances and produced a fresh and odorless dress in the energy grid. As she walked back into her closet, dressed only in her underwear, she heard the quiet hiss of her cabin door. Surprised, Janeway took a step back into the depths of her closet, hurriedly, so that her naked form was out of view and called out, anxious, "Seven?"

From the doorway to the bedroom, the tall blonde answered as she approached the closet, hearing the slight unease in her roommate's timbre, "That is correct." When she heard the captain let out a heavy sigh, Seven quickly made her way to the closet so that she could set her lover's fears at ease. Even though Seven had spent very little time in the captain's presence in the last two week's, she was fairly certain, just by the small things that Janeway did differently, that the captain was not completely over the trauma of her ordeal with Mister X. She noticed it most when they walked together through the corridors, moving from Astrometrics to the Bridge and back again. The captain's step was quicker and lighter, almost as if she was ready to set her legs into high motion at a moment's notice and take off in another direction. Whether it be to flee or pursue someone, Seven wasn't certain. The cool ex-drone also noticed that the captain looked over her shoulder quite a bit more now, looked down hallways as they passed, took corner's wide, and generally seemed as if she was partially distracted. Seven knew that Janeway would always be someone who had at least five different things going through her mind at any given moment, but she had never known her to have to ask for her crew to repeat themselves, or simply nod when a more detailed response was customary. To the back of the captain, who was hanging up her dress, Seven of Nine said, "I apologize if I startled you."

Over her shoulder, as she reached up and grabbed a fresh pair of pants from the shelf, Janeway replied, "That's okay, Seven…I just didn't think you were coming back." Turning around, she smirked as she came over to her Astrometrics officer, hugging her readily, "Mmm…I'm glad you did, though. I've missed you."

"I have missed you a great deal as well, my Kathryn," Seven responded returning the embrace. "It is unfortunate that I was not faster. I would have liked to observe you in your previous garment for a longer period of time." When Janeway chuckled against her chest and then sighed, Seven informed, "You should endeavor to wear that garment more often…the color and the pattern are appealing, to say the least."

"I think it would probably lose its appeal if I wore it all the time…but thank you," Janeway smiled, looking up. Bringing her free hand around to Seven's hipbone, Janeway rubbed her finger across the protrusion and whispered, "But I think you should definitely endeavor to wear this garment more often…I like silver very much." Then standing on her tip toes since she was barefoot and Seven was wearing her impressive heels, Janeway said against her lips, "Well, silver on you, that is." After kissing her youngest lover, Janeway reached up, cupped her face and asked, running her thumb over her lips, "Will you keep me company while I get ready…or must you go?"

Seven of Nine reached over and pulled down a shirt for the captain, responding, "I am required to observe your morning ritual. I have missed doing so." Smiling as Janeway pulled on her pants, she continued, "B'Elanna Torres's ritual is…efficient."

Chuckling, Janeway pulled on her tank top, and said, reaching for the shirt Seven was handing to her, "I thought you liked efficiency?"

"I have found that in some areas, I enjoy observing a more…inefficient process," Seven smirked. "I enjoy watching you…take your time. It is calming." Sighing, but only because she was uncomfortable not understanding herself, she went on, "It is a contradiction…however, I believe it is similar to how we 'relaxed' they day I first 'moved' into these quarters." Following Janeway to the bathroom, grabbing the captain's coffee for her since she knew she would be asking for it in a few minutes, she continued, "I do not understand it totally, but this activity I enjoy the most with you, alone."

"Thank you," Janeway said quietly, accepting her coffee cup and bringing it to her lips as she stepped in front of her mirror. As Seven sat down on the toilet, as was habit, the captain grinned, setting down her coffee cup and said, "Well, I'd be lying if I said that my morning ritual was always this pleasant." Kissing Seven quickly on the lips, she explained, "I like having you in here." Laughing wistfully as she opened the cupboard and pulled out her hairbrush, "I can't explain it either…but you're right…it's nice." Pulling the brush through her hair, she asked, "So, did you and Naomi have fun?"

"That is correct," Seven nodded then went on, knowing Janeway would ask what they did. As the captain put her brush away, tucked her hair behind her ears and examined her face, as was habit, before she put on makeup, the blonde informed, "We engaged in several rituals. First I consumed my evening nutritional supplement while Naomi Wildman had 'desert,' which consisted of a glass of milk and three chocolate chip cookies. Then we played Kadis Kot three times, and discussed a variety of subjects…most of which centered around you." When Janeway looked somewhat surprised, Seven informed smirking, "I believe Naomi Wildman could be considered your 'fan,' Kathryn." When a shy, humble look fell over the captain's face, Seven deemed this appropriate, since she knew that underneath the captain's cockiness was a rather modest woman, she continued, "Afterward, Naomi read part of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone to me, and then braided my hair." When Janeway smiled brightly as she put on her mascara, she finished, "From there, we engaged in 'girl talk' and then regenerated."

"Girl talk, huh?" Janeway laughed, looking over at Seven for a moment. "Is that when it came out that you think I'm…pretty…in blue?"

"That is correct," Seven informed easily. "She inquired as to what your favorite color was, and I informed her that although you prefer red and white, you also are fond of blue, and that I believe that you look exceptionally 'pretty' in blue, due to the color of your hair and eyes." Standing up and coming up behind the captain, she said softly, "It is fortunate that Naomi Wildman thinks of you so highly because you are a subject I never grow tired of discussing." Kissing the captain's neck that she titled, making as much of that area accessible to the blonde as possible since her uniform color came halfway up her neck, Seven said, "I have missed you a great deal, my Kathryn. Did you enjoy your evening with B'Elanna Torres?"

"Mmm…very much, my love," Janeway whispered, closing her eyes and smiling. "Oh, I've missed you too…and I'm glad you had fun with Naomi." Grabbing Seven's arms and pulling them around her waist, resting her head back against the Borg's chest, she chuckled, "You know, I think our little friend is more perceptive than we give her credit for." Turning around and hugging Seven, she explained, "Because, whenever she and I are together…somehow…the conversation always turns to one very 'pretty' blonde who looks stunning in silver." Sighing, she smiled and said, "Children are funny that way…they see so much more than we do." On her tiptoes again, Janeway requested, quiet and seductive, "Kiss me, darling…before I have to go be the captain, huh?"

"I will comply."

Fifteen minutes late for her duty shift, Kathryn Janeway stepped through the doors of the turbolift on to her Bridge with a look on her face that definitely did not mirror the look she had left Seven of Nine with at the door to their quarters after kissing her passionately for several minutes in their bathroom before finally having to tear herself away from her Astrometrics officer's lips. Not only were Kathryn and Seven now desperate for some personal quality time, which was expressed rather clearly in the bathroom just minutes before, but Janeway was not at all looking forward to today, and that was what was being expressed on her face, despite the fact that she was madly in love and was having a hard time not thinking of her two lovers every other minute. Janeway wasn't as cool of a customer as Seven was, but she definitely had her moments, and she knew that this was one of them. Gliding down the stairs, using the hand rail to guide her, she said in her direct, no none-sense tone, "Sorry I'm late…Commander, could I see you for a moment, please?" It wasn't a question, or a request, every one knew, but Janeway had found that by being polite, even when she was giving a direct order, she always just got a better response, and the captain, although she'd probably never admit it, enjoyed how polite phrases rolled off her tongue. Continuing down the steps and into her Ready Room without looking behind her, she went directly to her desk to log on, but didn't sit down, now in the habit of getting up to retrieve her breakfast that automatically appeared every time she did so. Walked around her desk and to the device as Chakotay came through the doors, she asked, "Want some coffee?"

Sensing the captain's mood from the get go, and knowing something was up since the captain was late for duty about as often as they ejected the warp core, he smiled softly and said, "Sure."

"Cream and sugar, huh?" she asked shaking her head, knowing that they did this now just to comfort each other when they knew tough times were ahead. Pulling out her supplement, she ordered the drink as he answered.

"Two."

"Two!" Janeway huffed, turning around at the same time and handing him his coffee. When Chakotay chuckled and took the cup, she turned back around to order herself a cup of black coffee and said over her shoulder, "Normally, as you know, I leave the personal discussions for later," taking the silver mug out of the energy grid and turning around, "but I'm not ready to talk about Tom Paris yet." Walking up the stairs, she sighed and asked, setting her coffee down on the glass table and sitting, "So…what's the word?"

Knowing exactly what she was alluding to, since that's what the whole ship was talking about, he smiled and said, "Well, I'm not going to lie to you and tell you that everyone and their brother isn't talking about you and B'Elanna, but I think you can stop worrying about it being a problem." Chuckling, he shook his head and said, holding his coffee in his lap as he sat back, "Apparently, you two made quite and impression last night." Leaning in and whispering as Janeway's face slowly began to brighten, "Word on the street is that the captain's got it bad…and our chief engineer isn't fairing much better at all." Patting the captain on the leg as she looked away and sipped her coffee, shy and modest, he informed, "I think everyone is starting to figure the whole thing out." Then removing his comforting hand and sipping his coffee for a few minutes, he finally asked, "So, how are you fairing?"

Expelling a breath and closing her eyes for a moment, she finally turned her gaze back to him and said softly, "Honestly, I don't think I've ever been more ready to make a few big decisions and go forward." Shaking her head and rubbing her forehead, she sighed, looking back up at him with eyes full of equal amounts of bliss and misery, "I'm not going to lie to you and tell you that I'm fine." Both of them smiling crookedly, knowing that Janeway rarely ever let on as to what was really going through her head with him, she said after clearing her throat, but still speaking in hushed tones, almost afraid to speak them louder, "All of this has affected me…changed me, and that's…" holding onto the word for a second, "tough. But I think it's time that I accept that there is nothing I can do about it now and just…compromise." Both of them shared another small chuckle with that, then reaching across the sofa and putting her hand on her friend's, she finished, "And don't worry about B'Elanna…I don't plan on turning my back on her, or Seven. It's not something I'm capable of doing…at all…and it's not something I want to do."

Chakotay set down his coffee and took the captain's hand in both of his and said, "Kathryn, I'm not worried about B'Elanna, or Seven for that matter…I am worried about you however." Smiling warm and affectionate, he said, "I'm not going to lie to you either. You look wonderful…but I know that you don't feel wonderful. I know you're happy…I know you love B'Elanna and Seven…but," sighing, he continued, "I know you're not happy in your own skin right now."

Leaning her head back and closing her eyes, Janeway entwined her fingers with one of Chakotay's hands, and whispered, "No, I don't feel good right now. I feel good about my relationships, although, I'd be lying if I said everything was perfect…but that's to be expected with everything that has happened." Then turning her head and looking at him, she admitted, "I just feel like we're all starting to…settle down and live our lives. And I can't blame anyone because I'm doing it too. I feel the change happening, but that doesn't mean it makes that knowledge sit any better with me."

"You're worried that if people see you settling down that they'll think you don't care about getting home anymore?"

"Yes." Sighing heavily and putting her free hand behind her hand, she spoke into the air, looking up at the ceiling, "It's not going to change anything, but I still worry about it. We've got a child aboard this ship whose growing up before our eyes, there are several serious relationships happening, and I wouldn't be surprised if I was asked to perform a marriage ceremony or two in the next few months. As much as I wish we didn't have to think about it…I know we have to start making plans for having a generational ship." Looking over at him, she went on, "It's been seven years, Chakotay…people are going to start to settle down and raise families. I can't stop them…nor do I want to, even if it makes my life that much more difficult. They have a right to that happiness. I know we can't keep going on like we've been doing…we've got to change…I've got to change, more than I already have." Finally taking her hand away from his and reaching for her coffee again, she finished, "I honestly thought I'd never have to have this conversation with you…I was certain we would have found a way home by now."

Sipping his coffee as well, surprised somewhat that his captain was getting into this part of their lives since he figured she seemed so uneasy lately because of her own personal struggle, he asked, "So, do you have any ideas how we should change?"

Sitting back again, she crossed her legs and said, with the coffee close to her lips, "Well, the Elite Force is a start. If we're going to start raising children on this ship, then we have to be more careful." Clearing her throat again and putting the cup in her lap, she said peering down into it, "I'm not going to sacrifice Federation principles…however, I think we have to be more cautious…less curious and more aggressive when we're threatened. I'm not going to stop seeking out new civilizations, but I think we should make plans to try to keep Voyager out of predetermined first contact situations as much as possible. Which," she frowned, "brings us to Tom Paris. You know, there's been a rumor flying around that he's designing a new shuttle?"

Nodding, Chakotay scratched his brow and said, "Yes…I heard. I wasn't certain you had, however. How do you feel about that?"

"Well," she turned up one corner of her mouth, "I'm not upset about it. Designing a shuttle and building one are two totally different things…but, it's got me thinking, and I think it's time we built something that packs a little more of a punch than the Flyer."

"You want to build a shuttle for the Elite Force," he stated rather than asked.

"Yes…I think it's time we took extra security measures."

Chakotay laughed once, shaking his head and said after clearing his throat, "Well, you know you won't get any argument from me, Kathryn."

Janeway smiled humbly and responded, "No, I don't suppose I would…you or Tuvok. Like I said, I'm not going to change our way of life…what we know and believe in, but I think we're fooling ourselves if we think we can continue on like before." Getting up from the sofa and walking toward her desk, she informed, "I think it's time we did a little less exploring and a little more housekeeping." Sitting down at her chair and pulling up her Paris/Fowler logs, she said to the tall commander as he deposited his coffee in the replicator, "I'd like to talk to Tom alone today, if you don't mind. I think he and I need to make certain we see eye to eye on this idea if we having any chance of pulling it off."

"Agreed," Chakotay answered, knowing very well that even though Janeway wasn't saying it specifically, she was concerned that now that it was public knowledge that she and the rebel pilot's ex-girlfriend were involved, he could have a problem dealing with her. "Any specific instructions before I go?"

"Just keep your ear to the ground for now," Janeway said leaning on her elbows. "I think now that people are aware that I've given into my…humanity," she smiled crookedly, "there are going to be more than a few ideas floating around as to what that means. And, as much as I hate to admit it…we can't dismiss them…and I'd like to be prepared to handle any problems that might arise immediately and effectively."

"Understood…I'll keep you posted," the commander bobbed his head and left, saying, "Thanks for the coffee."

"Any time, Commander."

Standing up on the second level of her Ready Room with her arms crossed over her chest, Kathryn Janeway starred out at the starfield that was distorted by the warp bubble, pensive and tense. As she turned around and reached down for her mug of coffee, her door call sounded, and she knew that the time was finally upon her. She had been anxiously anticipating this moment since she awoke this morning in the arms of B'Elanna Torres, and after taking a deep breath, she snatched up her mug and said, "Enter," as she walked to the replicator to deposit the contents of her hands, wanting to keep this meeting completely professional. Turning around as Tom Paris stood in the center of her office with his hands behind his back, not quite at attention, but as close as she'd ever seen the man come to it and said, walking toward him, "Have a seat, Lieutenant." Sitting down at her desk, she began as Tom sat in the single chair before her, "Your thirty days aren't quite up yet, but I thought it would be prudent to bring you in here and talk about the situation before I made my final decision." Leaning back, focusing on Tom closely, she folded her hands in her lap and asked, speaking softly, but not completely kind, "I'm curious, how do you feel about the work you've been doing in the last month?"

Relaxing a little, Paris leaned forward on his knees and answered, "Honestly, Captain, I feel pretty good about it." Smiling weakly, he informed, "I'd prefer to not spend so much time in Sickbay…but I'm learning a lot, so it hasn't been bad. It's just really quiet in there, and well…the Doctor and I don't have a whole lot in common." When Janeway continued to remain silent and nodded at him once, telling him to keep going, he shrugged and continued, "I have been enjoying the work I've been doing with Ship's Maintenance, though. It's been good to get my hands into actually fixing equipment and larger things, and the work I got to do on the shuttle's impulse engines was really great." Then sitting back, he sighed and finally said, "But I'd be lying if I said that I didn't miss flying. I miss it, Captain…I miss it a lot." Falling forward again, picking at his nails and speaking toward them, having trouble getting his words out while looking at the captain, "I want you to know that I know why I'm here today. I know that Nick has proven herself, and I want you to know that I'm not going to fight you on this one. I'm not jumping for joy about it, but I've put myself in this position…so what can I do?"

Janeway changed her mind, being surprised by her fair-haired former helmsman and said, pushing off from her desk and going over to her replicator, "I'm not going to pretend that you haven't put me in a bad position, Tom." Ordering a cup of coffee, she asked, "Coffee?"

"No thanks, Captain," he answered, but decided to not say anything else because he knew that more was coming.

Grabbing the mug from the blue energy grid, she continued walking slowly back to her desk, "However, if there has been one positive thing that has come out of this is I've realized that I've been relying on my senior officers too heavily, and that is something that I am going to change." Sitting down, she sipped her beverage before she went on, "Chakotay and I have been thinking about his situation a great deal, and he and I both agree that a change has to occur," when Tom nodded his head in acceptance, not looking at her though, she informed, "but what that change is…is partly up to you."

Confused, he looked up and allowed, "Captain?"

Janeway sat down her mug and leaned forward toward him, talking quiet again, "You were right, Tom…Lieutenant Fowler has more than proven herself capable of maintaining her current post, and then some. What hasn't occurred is you proving that you can't learn from your mistakes, which again, makes my life more complicated." As Tom continued to furrow his brow, she finally decided that he was far enough out of his arrogant element that she could stop being so cryptic and informed, "Lieutenant Fowler will remain a senior officer aboard this vessel, and I'd like to keep you on as well. I want to split each of your responsibilities up. You both are very capable of piloting this ship, but you both also have other talents that diverge a great deal. I think the best course of action for this ship and crew is if you both pilot this ship, and when she is taking a Bridge shift, you can continue to beef up your medical and maintenance training. I have other plans for Miss Fowler, but those don't relate to you. How do you feel about that?"

Totally stunned, Tom got up from his chair and replied, walking around, needing to think since that was the very last thing he expected to come out of Janeway's mouth, "I…I don't know what to say." As the idea started to sink in, and he started to realize that not only was he going to be able to flying this ship again, but that he was also going to be able to continue his other work—Tom Paris even admitted from time to time that only being a pilot could get boring…often—he finally turned around and said, nonplussed still, "Captain…I think that's a great idea." Coming back to the chair and sitting quickly, he went on, "I think Nick is good…I really do, and I think she's just the kind of person we need as a senior officer." Then scratching his head for a second, he asked, "How does she feel about this?"

The captain eyed Tom Paris carefully for a few seconds and then said, finally looking away for a moment and leaning back in her chair again, "I haven't discussed it with her yet. If you weren't interested, then I would have just given her the job outright."

Not at all surprised, by that, he nodded and said, "I understand. So, what happens if she isn't interested?"

"Let me worry about that, Lieutenant," Janeway answered quickly, keeping him in his place, and doing so easily since she was fairly convinced that once she talked with Fowler about all of the things she had in store for the capable officer, she wouldn't have to worry about it. When Paris backed down immediately, mumbling apologies, Janeway ignored them and said, "Well, now that that's over…I'll inform the commander that starting the day after tomorrow you are allowed to return to the Bridge." Leaning forward and lowering her tone, she said gravely and surely, "I want you to know Tom Paris, that this is the absolute last time I will make allowances for you. I am sympathetic for your situation…you and I both know that…but the line has now been drawn. I expect you to follow my orders without argument, abide by Starfleet regulations, and generally walk the line from now into the foreseeable future. I will not tolerate any further indiscretions on your part. Period. Are we clear on that?"

As Tom Paris answered his captain, he knew, without a shadow of a doubt that what she was telling his was the absolute truth. "Yes, Ma'am," the sandy blonde man replied without pause or movement, other than from his lips.

Kathryn took a few more moments to stare him down, size him up, and basically silently inform him that if he crossed her again, that would most definitely be the biggest mistake he ever made. Then bobbing her head once, she said, leaning back again and growing visibly more relaxed, "Good. So, what's this I hear about you designing a new shuttle craft?"

Blinking, Tom finally shook his head and laughed, "I tell you…nothing is scared on this ship." When Janeway chuckled once, he continued, "Well, it's just been something I've been doing to keep busy…and honestly, stay out of your way, Captain."

"So, tell me about it."

"Seven of Nine to Captain Janeway."

Setting down the report PADD that she was perusing from the comfort of her sofa on her office that Tom Paris had dropped off for her a few minutes ago, as he had promised to do after their meeting after she had requested more specific data on his new shuttle idea, a faint smile graced the captain's thin lips as she crossed her legs, tapping her communicator and said, softly, "Janeway here."

"Captain, I have discovered something of interest during my analysis of the ion storm. Would you please report to Astrometrics as soon as you are able?"

Smiling brightly and chuckling, since that was the most polite summons she had ever received from her ex-Borg officer, most of the time Seven kept her communications to something similar to "Your presence is required in Astrometrics…comply," Janeway responded, "I'm on my way. Janeway out." Then getting up from her couch, she picked up her coffee mug and the PADD, recycled the cup and put the PADD into her desk draw for further inspection later. Exiting her office, she climbed the stairs and announced to Tuvok since Chakotay was no where to be seen, probably walking the halls of the ship and attempting to gain the mood, "You have the Bridge, Commander…I'll be in Astrometrics."

After entering the turbolift and requesting the deck, Janeway thought about Nicole Fowler and how to best approach her newest pilot. As the doors parted for her, depositing her on Deck Five, Janeway walked down the familiar pathway to the space lab, a place she had visited many times before she and Seven ever expressed their love for each other just to be close to her blonde officer and decided that a more informal and personal setting would probably be the best way to broach the subject with Nicole, which meant that she was going to need to have her quarters to herself for that evening, which she hoped would be tonight because she honestly didn't want to delay the conversation. The only thing that was bothering Janeway with that was that she was beginning to feel as though she was going to cry if she didn't get some private time with Seven of Nine very soon. There was just something about the time she spent alone with the Borg that reminded the captain of her purpose, of why she was who she was, and why she wasn't the worst kind of captain. Seven had also turned into something of a confidant of the captain's, which she admitted that she was terribly lacking in, and she didn't have the uneasiness discussing ship's business with Seven, that she did with Torres because Seven was just different, and she always listened and expressed her opinion in a logical manner, and was quite capable of separating her personal feelings for the captain at those moments. It wasn't that Torres couldn't do that, but it was more that the captain had a difficult time talking to Torres about business without bringing her personal feelings into the mix. B'Elanna was just so passionate and filled with emotion that every time the captain was around her, she felt as though if she didn't express that side of herself, she was doing her lover an injustice just because she loved that about her so.

Entering Astrometrics easily, walking with purpose but not marching, Janeway smiled when she saw the back of her lover dressed in her silver, skin-tight biosuit which the captain had always thought brought out the color in the woman's eyes and face more than any other color she had ever seen her wear and was about to ask for a report when Seven of Nine said, without turning around, surprising her, "Good afternoon, Kathryn. I apologize if I interrupted you; however, I believed it was prudent to inform you personally of this discovery before I made my report at the staff meeting."

Sliding up next to Seven, Janeway placed her hand on the small of Seven's back and asked, looking down at the sensor board, and speaking quietly, "How did you know it was me?"

Seven smirked, glanced over and down at her captain, and then answered in her strict, crisp, but somehow loving tone as she turned back to her sensor board and started to route her date to the main viewer in Astrometrics, "The sound of your footfalls are unique, and I have memorized each of them." When she looked back over at the captain who looked highly intrigued by this, she went on and stated, "Today, your stride was commanding, as it almost always is, however, there was no aggression to it, the pace was slower, and lighter. I can extrapolate from that data that you are intrigued and or eager to hear what I have to say, and that you are agreeable to me calling you Kathryn." Titling her head and lifting her eyebrow, she finished, "Correct?"

Crossing her arms over her chest and bringing her hand to her chin, looking Seven up and down and then shaking her head, Janeway finally smiled warm and said, "Seven…you never cease to amaze me." When they both turned back to the board, Janeway eased in close to her, placing her hand on the blonde's back again and whispered, "Just do me a favor and don't give all your secrets to reading me like a book away to anyone, alright? I'd rather not have my crew be able to know how to approach me just by the way I walk."

"I will not," Seven said looking back down and Janeway and turning up one corner of her mouth. Then pushing away from that console, she stepped behind Janeway, politely ushered her aside by placing her hand on the captain's back and giving her a soft push, which caused the captain to laugh and apologize, Seven said, looking over to Janeway who was grinning at her as she leaned on the far console and then over to the viewscreen, "Captain, please turn your attention to the viewscreen."

Laughing again, the captain mumbled, "Yes, of course, Seven." Then clearing her throat and squinting for a moment, focusing her eyes as the screen continued to zoom in the an appropriate spot, she asked, "What it is that I'm looking at?" Quickly, she added, "And if you say the ion storm…I'll throw you in the Brig."

Smirking, Seven informed after focusing on one area and zooming in knowing that the captain wasn't able to see the graphic as well as she was, "This is primary cell of the ion storm, which seems to be the focal point of the storm's power." As Janeway looked away from the viewer and climbed the dais to take a closer look, Seven continued, "It seems that whatever it is that causes this phenomenon starts here. I've analyzed this storm's life cycle and been able to determine that is the place where the storm also degrades. It seems to be the singular source of the storm. All of the charged particles are created and dispersed here." Zooming in on another cell, Seven explained, "This ion storm contained several secondary cells, but all of them arose from the primary cell. I believe that if we were to disrupt the primary cell, that the storm would dissipate shortly thereafter." Looking back down at her sensor board as Janeway turned toward her, she continued, "However, it is possible that one of the secondary cells would take over the function of the primary. My data is inconclusive at this time." Then sighing some and looking over at the captain was she walked down the steps and came to a rest on the them, Seven stated, "There is also that the primary cell is contained in the center of the storm, which would make it difficult to manipulate...however, I believe that this data is important since if we ever came across a newly developing storm, it is possible we could disrupt it before the task became too dangerous, and before any secondary cells formed."

Narrowing her eyes somewhat as she thought, Janeway finally asked, "How would we go about disrupting the primary cell?"

"Since the ions produced in these storms are cation, and their positive energy is what 'fuels' the storm, I believe if we bombarded the immediate area of the primary cell with electrons, we could disperse the cell by eliminating the ions it produces."

Standing up, Janeway walked back up onto the dais and paced with her hands across her chest and tapping her index finger against her lips. Then turning to Seven again, she offered, "Well, it's possible…however, we could run the risk of some of the atoms taking more electrons than they need and sending them into a reversed state of charge. And then we could have a big problem with cation and anion ions colliding. I'm not certain what that would cause under these conditions, but I'm not sure I want to find out." Looking back at the storm on the viewer, the redhead allowed, "It is a thought though." Turning back around, she asked, "Do you think you could program the holodeck to test this theory of yours out?"

"Yes, however, more research is required," Seven informed looking back down at her board, once again glad that the captain was such an intelligent woman so she didn't have to explain every detail of her thought process. As Janeway walked back down the steps and came up over to her, the ex-Borg stated, "Most likely, Captain, it will take me several weeks to complete my research, if this is something that you wish to investigate."

Surprised by the timeline, Janeway asked, "Weeks? I thought your research would be done in a couple of days?"

Seven placed her hands behind her back and explained, "At the time I informed you of that, I was not aware of this new data. If you only wish me to find a way to disrupt the primary cell and test my theory, then it will mostly likely only require a week's worth of work." When Janeway gave her an inquisitive look, she went on, "However, I feel as though it is my duty to inform you that I cannot, at this time, determine the necessity for these storms…or rather, what purpose they serve. I feel that it is unwise to tamper with a natural phenomenon if we cannot predict the consequences of such actions. This is why the Federation changed their warp drive configuration, because the former engine caused tears in subspace at higher speeds, correct?"

Janeway took a moment to gaze at Seven, and then finally said softly, completely overwhelmed with triumph and humility at the same time, "Well done, Seven...you're absolutely correct." Coming up to her, she placed her hand on her arm, squeezed it gently and smiled, saying, "Take all of the time you need. If we find out that these ion storms serve a specific purpose, and that disrupting one would harm the galaxy in some way, then we'll detail the information and make certain that we just stay out of their way."

Seven nodded once, equally humble and said, softly, "Thank you, Captain…I will begin my research immediately and 'keep you posted.'"

When Seven turned back to her sensor board, and then proceeded over to the far one as she got straight to work, Janeway smiled at her back and asked, quiet, "Darling, can I speak with you for a moment?"

Still working her board, Seven smiled to herself and replied, "You may."

Coming up to her, she scooted her small body in the corner so she could come into contact with her lover and said, frowning somewhat, "Seven…I need a favor of you." Sighing, she shook her head and informed, "I know the timing is really terrible, but I'd rather get this over with now before being without you for another night becomes unbearable."

Seven stopped what she was doing, turned toward the shorter redhead and asked, "What is it you require, my Kathryn?"

Since her tall officer was blocking her from the view of anyone who might happen to come into the lab, Janeway reached out and put her hand on Seven's stomach, rubbing it gently with the back of her hand, "I need to have our cabin to myself this evening. I need to discuss some things with Nick, and I think it would be best if I invited her over for a private dinner…to make her a little more comfortable…and so we can talk freely without being disturbed." Sighing, she looked up at Seven and stated, "It will probably be a lengthy discussion, we have a lot of talk about, and I can't ask you to just stay away for a while and then come back. So, if you just want to stay with B'Elanna tonight…I understand."

The blonde grabbed the captain's hand and held it firmly to her heart as she asked, "Do you want me to come back after Nicole Fowler has departed?"

Janeway looked down and whispered, "Yes…I miss you."

"Then I will return. You can simply hail me and inform me that 'the coast is clear,'" Seven replied surely. When Janeway chuckled once but did not lift her chin, Seven reached out and did so, taking a step closer so she was right on top of her and said, "Do not distress yourself over this. I have missed you as well, and I am required to be in your company just as much as you are required to be in mine at this time." Then smirking, she informed, "There is also the point that I believe B'Elanna Torres also requires some personal time. When I spoke with her earlier today, she informed me that she was looking forward to working on her holonovel this evening."

Frowning, Janeway asked, "Darling, it could be a long night…what will you do then?"

Seven looked away for a minute as she thought about her options and then finally reported, "I will contact Commander Tuvok and see if he is agreeable to allowing me to spend the evening in his company. He and I have spent little time together as of late. I am certain he will not protest."

Finally smiling because she knew now that Seven would definitely have a nice evening, and so would her security chief, for that matter, them being very similar beings sometimes, she whispered, "Okay…and I'm sure Tuvok would love that. He's rather fond of you, you know?"

"The feeling is mutual," the equally stoic Borg informed. "Commander Tuvok is always a pleasant individual, and our conversations are consistently intriguing." Then leaning down, she kissed Janeway's forehead quickly and then backed away getting back to work and finished, "However, you will undoubtedly be 'on my mind' the entire evening, Kathryn…although, that is usually the case." As soon as the doors to the Astrometrics lab opened, Seven stated, not having to look over, "Naomi Wildman…you have come for the captain."

Stopping just inside the door, the young girl asked, "How did you know that, Seven?"

Seven smirked, working her board and looking over at Janeway who was smiling and chucking silently, "It was a logical conclusion. Your footfalls are unique, and I am aware that you have ended your afternoon classes and were required to report for duty five minutes ago. Since the captain is here…you would be required to enter this lab to discover your tasks."

Patting Seven on the shoulder, Janeway said, "Thank you for the report, Seven…I'll see you later." After her lover nodded to her and continued on her task undaunted, Janeway came up to Naomi and said, "Sorry you had to track me down, Miss Wildman…I forgot the time."

Naomi placed her hands behind her back and followed Janeway out of Astrometrics, saying, "That's okay, Captain." Then once they were out the door and headed for the turbolift, she said excitedly, "Captain, I figured out what Seven wants for her birthday." Grabbing the captain's hand, something she really couldn't help doing, she said, "Seven wants a picture for her bedroom…like I have on Mommy and Neelix, and like the one you have of your mommy and sister."

Smiling, Janeway said, "Naomi…that's a wonderful idea. Well done." As they approached the turbolift, she asked, "Any idea what she wants a picture of?"

"This way, Captain," Naomi said, pulling Janeway down the hall with her toward Sickbay instead of taking the turbolift up to the Bridge. When the captain laughed and asked where they were going, she explained, "We have to go to Sickbay to get the Doctor's camera…so I can take a picture with you."

"Oh," Janeway allowed, flattered. Then asked, softly, "Are you sure Seven wants a picture of you with me in it?"

"Yes, Captain," the youngster answered trying not to giggle too much. "I'm going to make her a picture in art class so she can look at that too." Stopping in front of Sickbay before the doors opened, she informed, "I was sneaky, Captain…I'm sure this is what she wants for her birthday."

Laughing as they entered, the captain said, "Okay, Naomi…I'm sure you know better than I do."

"Hi, Doctor," Naomi said coming into the Sickbay and still holding the captain's hand, practically dragging her along because she was so excited. "Did you get my message about the camera?"

Moving away from his chair in his office, the hologram smiled warmly as he picked the camera up from his desk and said, "Yes, Naomi. Here you are," she said as he handed the camera to the girl who took it with both hands after finally releasing the captain. "So, what are you going to take a picture of for Seven's birthday?"

"Me and the captain," Naomi reported bouncing once. Then looking over at Janeway, she asked, "Captain…where do you think we should take the picture?"

"Why don't we take it in my Ready Room where we work, huh?" Janeway smiled down at the girl and then helped her pull out the strap so she could put it around her neck. Then taking her hand again, although, this time she was the instigator, Janeway nodded at the hologram as she left and said, "Thank you, Doctor…I'll see that it's returned in one piece." As the walked back toward the turbolift, the captain letting the young girl swing her arm, Janeway said, looking down, "You know, Miss Wildman…this really is a good idea. I'm impressed."

Remaining subdued, for now, she nodded and replied, "Thank you, Captain…just doing my duty as captain's assistant."

"Hmm…well, you're doing it very well," Janeway whispered leaning down just a tad. As they stepped into the turbolift, she let the girl call out their destination as she knew she preferred to do and asked, "How's the new book coming?"

"Oh, Captain! It's so…neat!" Naomi informed, not able to stifle her excitement over the classic tale. "I'm almost done with it…I can't wait to read the end. Mommy said that after I finish all of my homework, she'll help me read the rest tonight…so I should be able to discuss it very soon. Can we have tea like before?"

Stepping off the Bridge, chucking, she leaned down and whispered, "Oh, you have to have tea when you're talking about a book…it's tradition." Then walking down the stairs with her, hand in hand, she looked over at Chakotay who was watching them smiling and then said to her first officer, "Chakotay…could I see you for a moment?"

"What's up?" he asked cheerfully as he entered the room and the two females started over to the upper level.

Stopping Naomi, and taking the camera from around her neck, Kathryn responded, "I need your photographic skills again." When he smiled brightly and took the camera, she said, going back over to her desk and unzipping her tunic, wanting to take it off for the picture so she didn't look quite as business-like, "My very capable assistant," she smiled over a the girl who was standing straight with her hands behind her back, just like Seven, on the first step, "says that our Astrometrics officer would appreciate a picture for her new home for her birthday."

"Ah," he nodded. Then looking over to the girl, he said, "Well done, Miss Wildman…I think Seven would like that a lot."

"Thank you, Commander," the smallest redhead responded, professionally…feeling supremely important suddenly.

After hanging her coat on the back of her chair, she came around the desk and asked the lone male, "Where do you think we should take it?"

"How about in your desk chair?" he offered motioning for the younger girl to follow him. "Captain…why don't you sit down and then Naomi can sit on your lap?"

As Janeway nodded and did so, he took the jacket from the back of the chair so that it wouldn't be in the picture and slung it over his shoulder as the captain helped Naomi climb up into her lap. Moving her terminal to the side so that it would be in the picture, but not be a major distraction, he said, "Okay, now, turn around this way so that we can catch the window in the background." When that was done, he knelt down as Janeway wrapped her arms around the child and rested her cheek against the side of the girl's head. Smiling at the sight, the commander said, holding the camera to his eye, "That's good…okay, on three…one, two…three." Then pulling up the display on the back, he handed it to the two and asked, "Well, what do you think?"

Both of them smiled happily and nodded, knowing it was a very good picture and Janeway said, setting the camera on the desk and helping Naomi climb off her lap, "That's perfect…thank you, Commander." After he nodded, handed her jacket back to her and left, she asked her assistant that was hovering close and looking at the picture still, "Do you know how to take a picture, Miss Wildman?"

"Oh yes, Captain…I took the one of Mommy and Neelix in my bedroom," the girl reported readily. "Captain…can I have a copy of this one too?"

"I don't see why not," Janeway smiled, thinking to herself that she was going to make a copy for herself as well as she tapped her communicator and said, "Janeway to Torres."

After a five second delay, she heard her engineer's somewhat irritated sounding voice, "Go ahead, Captain."

Trying not to laugh at her lover who always seemed to sound so completely annoyed with her over the intercom, Janeway said, "Sorry to bother you, Lieutenant, but I need you to come down to my Ready Room for a few moments…unless you're terribly busy?"

"It's okay, Captain…I'll be there in a few minutes. Torres out."

Getting up from her desk, she said to the young girl, "You know that Seven and Lieutenant Torres are very good friends, right?" Then to her replicator, she said, "Coffee, black and chocolate milk."

Sitting down at the chair in front of the captain's desk as was standard now, the captain insisting that they share a beverage while they talk, usually about Naomi's studies before they started work, the child answered, "Yes, Captain…how come you ask?"

Handing her assistant her chocolate flavored milk, Janeway explained, sitting down herself, "Well, I thought that since you're such a good photographer, you could take a picture of me and Lieutenant Torres today, for Seven as well…and then she can have two pictures for her birthday, plus the one you're going to make her."

"That's a good idea, Captain," Naomi smiled swinging her legs. "Seven needs more stuff…she doesn't have any. I tried to get her to tell me what she wants, but she said that she didn't require any stuff." After sipping her drink for a second, she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and asked, "Captain, why doesn't Seven want stuff of her own?"

Janeway set her coffee down on her desk and answered, leaning forward, "Well, she didn't having any stuff of her own for all those years she was a Borg, so I just think she's not used to it. Plus, she's never had a home of her own to put anything in either…but I think once she sees that it's nice to have personal possessions that mean something to her, she'll start to warm up to the idea." As the door call sounded, she said, "Come in." When Torres appeared in her office wearing her tool jacket on while her hair was in a state of disarray while she donned brown smudges on her forehead and her hands, Janeway laughed, then covered her mouth as she stood, then finally said, "B'Elanna, I'm sorry…it looks like I caught you in the middle of something…messy."

Not certain what was going on since Naomi was in the room and the captain wasn't wearing her tunic, something that she almost always wore in her Ready Room, Torres said, keeping it professional, "That's okay, Captain…it's nothing important. We're still working on cleaning out all of the Jefferies Tubes on Deck Fourteen from when the thrusters burned up on us." Then shifting a little uncomfortably as Janeway started for her still snickering, she asked, "What can I do for you?"

"I need for you to pose for a picture with me for Seven's birthday," Janeway explained stopping in front of her and smiling, having a tough time not reaching out and rubbing the residue off her forehead, just because she looked so completely adorable in her current state.

Sighing, Torres looked at her and then smirked, saying, "Okay…but let me wash up for a minute."

Janeway quickly grabbed her shoulder and explained, "Oh no you don't…you look fine just the way you are."

"What!" Torres allowed as Janeway pulled off her tool jacket which exposed her arms that were equally dirty.

"You heard me…come on…let's go over to the steps," Janeway said grabbing her hand and pulling her along with her, hanging her engineer's tool jacket over the railing to the upper deck. "Naomi, dear, grab the camera."

"Captain, I look like," she started about to curse, but then amending because of Naomi, "I'm filthy."

Chuckling, Janeway replied sitting down on the upper step, "I know…it's perfect. She'll love it." Opening her legs, she requested, "Sit down in front of me, please."

"I'll get you for this," Torres mouthed silently before she sighed at sat down in front of the captain between her legs.

Still laughing, Janeway scooted forward until her chest was resting against Torres' head. Then grabbing her lover's hands, she requested quietly that B'Elanna hold her close. After Torres did and relaxed into the position, Janeway leaned in close, rested her chin on Torres' head, and asked Naomi who was standing in front of them, "How's this?"

"That's good, Captain," Naomi answered smiling and bringing the camera up to her eye. Then biting her lip, she took a few steps forward and then sighed, but a second before the captain was about to ask her if she needed help, Naomi bounced and said, "Oh, I remember," as she took the device away from her eye and pressed a few sensors so that the angle would change. Then bringing it back up to her eye, she smiled and informed, "I got it, Captain…okay, on three…one…two…three!" Pulling the camera away, she bit her bottom lip again as she tried to remember how to bring up the picture, determined to figure it out. When she got it, she jumped with joy and shouted, "I got it, Captain…it's good too!"

Still in the same position, she reached out and accepted the offering, holding it in front of B'Elanna and herself so that they could look at it. Smiling as she saw the picture which really was perfect, Torres looking exactly as Janeway almost always pictured her, and herself looking very much in love, she said quietly to her engineer, "It's perfect, Lanna…thank you."

Torres had to admit that it was a pretty darn good picture, even if she looked like she had been crawling around filthy Jefferies Tubes, which she had, and laughed, "Yea…it's alright." Then handing the camera back to the child who took it over to the captain's desk, Torres offered her hand to Janeway and said, "Well, Captain…unless you need me to pose with any of the other crew…I think I better get back to work. You can't believe all the gunk that's still down there."

Handing B'Elanna her jacket, she sighed and said, "Thank you, Lieutenant…for the picture…and for the work."

Torres pulled on her jacket and grinned, "You know what they say, Captain…it's a dirty job." Then walking over to Naomi, she pinched her shoulder very lightly and said, "Thanks, shortcake…you workin' today or is it book time?"

"I'm on duty," Naomi reported proudly, "until 1600 hours…and then I have to go home," she ended frowning. Then brighening, she finished, "But after dinner and my homework I get to read the captain's book."

"Sounds fun…okay, I gotta run," Torres smiled rubbing her hand on the girl's head.

"Bye, Lieutenant Torres," Naomi waved as B'Elanna started out the door and then turned and waved back before the door closed. Turning to the captain who had put her tunic back on and was sitting at her desk, the child said coming around to the captain's side, "I like Lieutenant Torres, Captain. She's neat…she always calls me shortcake. What's a shortcake, Captain?"

"It's a type of dessert," the captain explained turning toward her and smiling. "I think she means strawberry shortcake because it's sweet and red…but she probably just says shortcake because it's not as long." When Naomi nodded but looked like she didn't understand, Janeway chuckled and said, "It's red…like your hair, and it's sweet…like you. See how that works?"

Giggling, Naomi nodded and responded, "Oh, red like my hair…is that why Lieutenant Torres calls you Red, Captain?"

Janeway had a hard time not blushing at that one, having no idea Naomi was aware of that name and finally nodded, reaching for her coffee to help her, saying, "Yes…I think she likes red hair…like ours."

"Seven says that we're the only ones on the ship with red hair and blue eyes," Naomi reported on purpose, always trying to bring the conversation back to her tall friend with the captain since she loved it when Janeway talked about Seven since she always looked so happy. "Seven likes red hair too…she told me so."

Putting her work aside for the moment, knowing she wasn't going to get any done while Naomi was 'working' today, simply because they had spent so much time being informal, Janeway smiled and said, "Yes…well, I guess that means that she'll like our picture that much more, huh?" When the child nodded Janeway leaned back, and patted her thigh, requesting that her assistant sit in her lap. Once that was done and the child grew still, obviously aware that something important was about to be discussed since the captain had never asked her to sit in her lap, Janeway wrapped her arms around Naomi and asked, "Naomi…what do you think about me and Seven?"

"I think you and Seven are so neat, Captain!" the child answered quickly sitting up a little so she could turn around and look at the captain. "Seven's my best friend ever…I love her so much. Do you love Seven too, Captain?"

Janeway patted the girl's leg and said, nodding once, "Yes, dear…I love Seven very much, but," she paused as her voice grew softer, "I don't love Seven the same way you do. Do you understand the difference?"

Excited, she asked with speed, "Do you love Seven like my Mommy loves my Daddy?"

Glad she wasn't going to have to get into a discussion, or rather, get out of a discussion about adult love, Janeway smiled brightly and responded, "Yes…just like that."

Hugging the captain tightly, Naomi informed, "Captain…that's so neat." Then softer as she continued to embrace the older woman, she whispered, "I love you too, Captain…am I allowed to say that?"

Chuckling with tears in her eyes, Kathryn whispered back, "Yes, sweetheart, you're allowed to say that…and I love you too." As the child pulled away with the biggest smile she had ever seen on her face, Janeway held back her tears and went on, "Um," then laughing at herself, she continued, clearing her throat, "Lieutenant Torres also loves Seven and me very much…the same way your Mommy loves your Daddy."

The child nodded and informed, "Oh, I know, Captain." Snickering she whispered, "Everyone was talking about that this morning when I was helping Neelix in the Mess Hall." Then turning serious, she informed, "But I wasn't being nosey...honest." When Janeway nodded and laughed, Naomi went on excited, "I think Lieutenant Torres is so neat. Mommy says that when I get older and start to take engineering classes that she can help me because she's the best. Did you know that she knows how to sing like my Mommy?"

"I didn't know your mother was a singer?" Janeway replied.

"Oh yes, Captain…she sings really good, I mean well. Sometimes we sing songs before I go to bed. My favorite is You Are My Sunshine. That's Seven's favorite song too. Do you like that song, Captain."

"Yes," Janeway smiled for what seemed like the hundredth time since Naomi tracked her down in Astrometrics, "that's my favorite song too."

"If I didn't know you were a computer, I'd say you were trying to make my life miserable," Janeway hissed at her replicator as her second attempt at roast beef came out looking like someone took a blow torch to it. As her door call sounded, Janeway sighed and recycled the contents as she said, cranky, "Come in." Knowing it was Fowler, she said without looking back, "Nick…I hope you won't think I'm terribly uncouth, but I'm having zero luck with the replicator tonight." As she heard her pilot's somewhat heavy footsteps behind her, she turned and smiled crookedly over her shoulder, "Would you mind having a go at it?"

"Not at all, Captain," Fowler replied coming over to the replicator and grinning. "What's for dinner?"

Stepping away and letting someone who knew what they were doing have their way at the device, she answered, "Well, I was trying to make roast beef and potatoes, but, well, let's just say it wasn't pretty." As Fowler programmed the replicator, Janeway took a moment to admire her attire, which she had informed the woman was casual and stated, chuckling, "You know, I was joking before about wanting to raid your closet, but now, I'm honestly disappointed that we're of such different proportions." Tapping her shoulder once, which was clothed with a light blue, cotton, long sleeve, tailored shirt, she informed, "This is very nice."

"Thanks, it's new," Fowler admitted. Laughing at herself, she explained, "I never really had a reason to have dinner with the captain before now…so, you know…most of my clothes consist of workout attire." Looking over her shoulder at Janeway, she finished, "Except for the leather pants…but, I didn't think those would be appropriate for tonight."

Laughing as well, Janeway came back, "Well, whatever makes you comfortable. I'm sure if B'Elanna had a pair, she'd wear them all the time." Then thinking about that for a moment, she tried to remind herself to remember to make a note of that as a possible birthday gift for her Klingon lover. When Fowler produced a perfectly cooked roast beef, this one bigger than the one she had attempted to replicate, Janeway clapped her hands and said, "Wonderful…thank you, Nick. I really can't cook much of anything except sandwiches and pasta."

"That's more than Torres can cook," Fowler snorted taking the meat and potato tray over to the table that was already set, not surprised that candles were burning since Janeway just seemed like a candle type of person. "She and Seven came over to my place a couple of nights ago and she tried to make some garlic bread to go with our spaghetti." Shaking her head and pulling out a chair for the captain, just out of habit, she explained, laughing more, "Captain…it was the worst thing I've ever had…in my life." Sitting down herself, she informed, "And I've had some bad food…let me tell you. Not a surprise that she always eats in the Mess Hall. She makes Neelix look like a five star chef."

Laughing as well, Janeway said as she poured them both some wine as Fowler served up their plates, supremely glad that her officer wasn't afraid to be herself around her captain, "That doesn't surprise me. I've never had the …um pleasure…of sampling B'Elanna's cooking, but I had a feeling I wasn't missing much. When she and I were camping a few weeks back, she came up with just about every excuse in the book to keep from having to cook. Thank you," Janeway nodded as Fowler set her plate down in front of her. Then getting up from the table, Janeway shook her finger over her head and said, "I, however, can replicate bread…did you want anything else?"

"Maybe some salt and pepper," Fowler responded, "I didn't put any on this in case you didn't like it."

Ordering sliced bread with butter and the spices, Janeway brought them back to the table and said, "Here you are." Then sitting down, she raised her glass and said, "Cheers." After sipping her wine, she settled back in her chair and said, placing her napkin on her lap, "Well, I'm sure you're wondering why I brought you here tonight?"

As she cut the meat, Fowler smiled and said, "Well, I'm sure it's not to ask me to be your stand in girlfriend again," she joked, knowing the captain would find that humorous, and not take it the wrong way. When Janeway laughed, she went on, "I think I know what this is about…considering you had a long meeting with Tom Paris today." Sighing, she spoke honestly, "I'm not going to lie to you, Captain…I'm really hoping this isn't your way of letting me down easily."

Janeway left her food alone for the moment, snatched up her wine and smiled softly, truly enjoying her pilot's personality and honest, straightforward demeanor. Then shaking her head, she said, quiet, "No, it's not." When Nicole closed her eyes and sighed, and then took a bite of her food, Janeway informed, "This is my way, however, of approaching a new situation with someone that I'm going to be working very closely with for the foreseeable future. There are going to be a lot of new things on the horizon for you, Nick…some you are aware of, and some you probably aren't…and I want you to speak honestly about them tonight. That's why I brought you here." Sipping her wine for a few moments while Fowler nodded as if she understood and continued to eat, the captain continued after a few beats, "Commander Chakotay and I have been thinking about this situation for the last three weeks, and I want you to know that he and I both feel as though you have done an outstanding job considering the circumstances of how all this came to pass." Putting her glass down and leaning forward, she stated clearly, "We'll make it official the day after tomorrow, but considering your service record and your experience, I'm promoting your status to a senior officer, which, Lieutenant, makes you the forth highest ranking officer on this ship."

Setting down her fork quickly, Fowler reached for her glass and took a big gulp and then said, after coughing and swallowing down her shock, "Paris doesn't out rank me?"

"No," the captain responded, "not by a long shot. Now that you're a senior officer, your command training and experience far exceed the rest of the crew." Grabbing her wineglass again, she sat back and asked, "How do you feel about that…that's a big change?"

Fowler scratched the back of her head and answered, "Well, I knew that if I was promoted to a senior position that I'd be ranked over Torres and Kim…so I guess four isn't that far away from five." Then sighing and shaking her head, she continued, "But for some reason, it just seems a hell of a lot closer to the big chair." After taking another bite of her dinner and thinking it over for a few moments, she finally said, "I'm okay with it, though. I mean…I think it's going to take me a few weeks to get used to it, as far as what I feel and think in my head, but that won't affect how I act, Captain. I know how to take care of business even if I'm not so sure how I feel."

"Oh, I'm not worried…especially after you ordered Ensign Wang to join us in Engineering during that whole mess," Janeway informed sipping her wine again. Then not wanting to remember that horrid day, she moved along quickly, "There is going to be a change, however…and that's what we need to talk about."

Interrupting quickly, Fowler smiled and reminded, speaking soft, "Captain…your food's getting cold."

"Oh, right," Janeway shook her head, setting down her glass and picking up her fork, feeling witless, "guess I forgot that part." After taking a small bite of potatoes, honestly not nearly hungry enough to eat the large portion of food Fowler had piled on her plate, she continued, "Considering your command training and your other, more physically driven talents, I've decided to reinstate Tom Paris as a senior officer as well." When she saw Fowler freeze mid chew, Janeway held up her hand and explained quickly, "Before you say anything…let me explain. There are almost certainly going to be many changes happening with this ship in the coming year. Now that the crew is aware that I am involved, romantically, I have a feeling that that news could set off sort of a chain reaction. I know that there are several couples aboard that have been together for quite sometime, and I wouldn't be surprised if people don't start making more serious plans for marriage and children. With that in mind, as well as just this ship's general safety, we've decided to go forward with the Elite Force idea." When Fowler nodded and started chewing again as if she understood where this was going, Janeway smiled when her pilot nodded subtlety back at the captain's plate of food, informing her to stop talking and eat, which she did for a moment, and then went on, "You've already secured a spot on the squad, Nick. You're exactly the kind of officer we need, and Tuvok and I have decided that you will be his first since that position needs to be held by someone with command training." Sighing, she shook her head and admitted, "As much as I love this crew, just between you and me, they were really green behind the ears when we first came out here. Most of the staff are crewmen right out of the Academy…not taking anything away from you, but there just isn't a lot to choose from."

"I worked on the Gamma shift for seven years, Captain…you're preaching to the choir," Fowler smiled as she continued to eat. Then reaching over and buttering a piece of bread, she handed one to Janeway and then asked as she made one up for herself, "Am I understanding right that Tom and I both will be piloting?"

"Thank you," Janeway acknowledged, reminding herself to tell Nicole later that she was a truly wonderful diner guest. "Yes, that's what we're hoping for. Mister Paris isn't really advanced tactical material, and we really need his medical skills in Sickbay." Taking a bite of her bread and then washing it down with the wine, she went on, "We want to split your shifts up. The days that you aren't at the helm, Paris will be, and visa versa. If an emergency comes up during one of those times, then whomever is on that day gets the chair. I won't let Tom push you out of that seat just because he's the most experienced pilot…you have my word on that. Besides, you out rank him anyway, and I honestly don't think it will come up." Getting back to her food for a few bites after Fowler yet again signaled with her eyes that the captain was forgetting to feed herself, she went on afterward, "When you're not at the helm, your duties will differ from day to day…especially for a while until we get you into a routine and get this Elite Force off the ground. You'll be spending a lot of time with Tuvok in Security, as well as a good deal of time with Commander Chakotay, working with personnel situations and duty rosters. It will be important for you to learn the strengths and weaknesses of your crew, so you can best place them in emergency situations. The rest of the time, you'll be working directly with me…and I'll help you get acquainted with the more finer points of command aboard Voyager." Taking a sip of her wine, she sat back from her food and asked, "How do you feel about this? Of course, this is what we would like to do…but I don't believe in putting people where they don't want to be. If you think this sounds terrible, let me know know…I won't hold it against you. You're too valuable for me to put you where you're unhappy or unfulfilled…even in the Delta Quadrant."

Fowler chewed on her food for a second and then answered, looking down and her plate at first, "Captain…I don't know what to say." Finally over at her, Nicole informed, "Yes…yes, I want to do all of that." Pushing away from the table and standing, needing to move around since she was having a hard time concentrating, Fowler dug her fists deep into the pockets of her grey, linen slacks and said, "Don't be alarmed, Captain…I just think better on my feet."

Janeway chuckled once, completely silent and to herself, remembering how Fowler had told her that exact same thing the first time they met one on one regarding this situation a month ago, and said, quiet, "Yes, I remember."

Pacing slowly and methodically, Fowler finally admitted, "Captain, I really don't know what to say other than thank you." Sighing heavily, obviously distressed that she couldn't think of more to say, she shook her head and went on, "This is just a lot of take at one time. My whole life is about to change…I mean, really change." Then turning around and looking at Janeway and said, "It feels good to feel like I'm apart of something again." Shaking her head a second time, she admitted, "I spent the six out of the last seven years hating you…doing everything in my power to make myself as small and useless as possible just so I didn't ever have to see you but once a month when you switched your shift and worked the night shift, or whenever you pulled an all-nighter." Taking her hands out of her pockets and putting them on her hips as she continued to pace, looking down at the ground again, "And now, all of the sudden I'll be working right next to you, and be protecting your life on a regular basis." Nicole turned back around to Janeway, scratching the back of her head as she did whenever she was conflicted or confused, or feeling out of her element, she finished, "It's just very weird, Captain…feels kind of like a dream."

"Well, I'm sorry that you held that kind of anger and pain in for so long, Nick," Janeway sighed putting down her wine glass and folding her napkin, placing it on her plate, no longer hungry, "but I don't blame you for doing it. And I'm glad we've been able to move past that, and I know that whatever, if anything, you still hold against me won't affect your duty. You're a fine officer…true Starfleet…and I admire that." Standing up, she went over to her couch to sit down since Fowler was standing over by it, having a feeling that she wasn't going to eat anything more, at least not for a while, and said, "And I know you're life is going to change drastically now. I'm not going to lie to you. I'll expect you to work hard. You've got a lot of catching up to do. This isn't a nine to five job…more like eight to who knows when, and I don't expect you to give me an answer tonight. I just wanted to approach you about it…give you a couple of days to think about it before you made your decision."

Sitting down on the couch with the captain, although on the other side, Fowler said, "I don't need to think about it, Captain. I want to do this…I need to do this. I've wasted enough time…wasted enough of my life. I want to get back to what I know…what I love to do. This is it. I'm in Starfleet because it matters to me. I want to do this, Captain."

Curling up in the corner, Janeway nodded and replied, "Okay…then I'll inform Chakotay immediately. I want you to take the next two days off, though…tie up any loose ends you may have as far as personal business goes because you won't have much time for that in the next few weeks." Resting her head on her hand, she smirked and said, "I'm not one to sit around and let things just happen. I plan to move on this as quickly as possible. I want us to be ready the next time we need to be ready, and even though you're a guaranteed Elite Force member, that isn't the case for everyone, and I'm certain Tuvok will want your input and your assistance." After Fowler nodded, she went on, "As far as your pilot training program, I want you to know that I agree with you, but I'm going to turn that project over to Tom. He'll have a lot more time on his hands, and considering he is the most experienced pilot with all of our craft, I think he should head that up."

"I understand," Fowler responded easily, almost glad that Janeway had decided that since she had been thinking about it just a few minutes ago and was worried that she was going to have to put that on the back burner for the time being, starting to understand how the captain let the situation occur in the first place now that she was in the middle of all of the action and having a hard time trying to figure out when she was going to have time to sleep, let alone train Voyager's hand full of pilots. Putting her hand on her stomach, she laughed as it growled fiercely at her and asked, "Captain…do you mind if I go finish my dinner?"

Laughing as well, Janeway shook her head and said, "By all means, Nick…I know how you are about your nutritional requirements."

Yawning, Kathryn smiled lazily afterward at Seven of Nine as she emerged from their bedroom, still dressed in her biosuit, but had let her hair down, which the captain thought suddenly made her look like a mythical goddess in the silver suit, and said, moving her feet up to her chest so her lover could sit on the couch with her, "Mmm, darling…it's so good to have you home. Did you have a good time with Tuvok?"

Seven sat on the couch, close to the captain and said, pulling her feet out so that she could rest them across her legs as she answered, "The evening was pleasant, although, I believe I am ready to begin consuming solid nutrition once again. I am growing tired of my supplements, especially when I must consume them while my companions eat other meals" Turning toward the captain, Seven smiled and stated, "It is good to be home with you, my Kathryn. Was your evening enjoyable?"

Nodding and yawning again, Janeway snuggled into the corner of the couch and replied, "Yes…very much. Nick is a wonderful dinner guest." Chuckling, she informed, "And, I never have to worry about wasting food." When another yawn came on, Janeway sighed and stated, "Darling, would you mind if we took this conversation into the bedroom…I'm fading fast?"

The tall Borg smiled as she stood, helping the captain up and replied, "I do not object."

Janeway leaned into Seven as they walked, holding her hand, and then stopping by the ensuite near the closet, she pulled her lover close and whispered, "Darling, why don't you change into something more comfortable…I'll be out in a few minutes?" Then tracing her finger up and down Seven's tightly clothed torso as she leaned against the wall, keeping the Borg close to her with her other hand, she smirked and asked, husky, "How do get out of this thing anyway?"

Seven hovered close to her, understanding that the captain was probably interested in a little more than foreplay tonight and asked, "Would you like a demonstration, Kathryn?"

The previous tiredness that she had felt doing an immediate about face, Janeway brought up her hand and palmed one of the tall blonde's breasts as she breathed, "Oh yes…"

Taking a step backward, Seven of Nine reached behind her and fiddled with the suit that went all the way up to her neck. Feeling the small sensor button, she turned around, and explained to the redhead, "There is a sensor near my finger. Can you see it?" Looking over her shoulder as Janeway stood up straight and came behind her, nodding her head, Seven said, smirking, "You may press it."

Janeway reached up, placing one hand on Seven's shoulder, pressed the small sensor and then let out breath of surprise when the skin tight suit lost all of its cohesion, ballooned out then sagged over the tall, thin Borg's body. "Well, that's handy," Janeway chuckled as she now noticed the zipper seam that went down Seven's back that had been fairly hidden when the suit wasn't expanded. Pulling down on the tiny clasp, exposing more and more of Seven's long, impossibly pale back, Janeway slipped her hands inside, ran them up to her shoulders and pushed the suit off, which immediately fell to the floor since it was no longer any where close to fitting her body. As Seven stepped out of the heels that were sown into it, Kathryn languidly ran her hands up and down Seven's still fairly new flesh, rejoicing in the sight and feeling of Seven's bare skin in her hands. Stepping closer, she pressed her chest against Seven's back and slipped her arms around her waist, delighting in the fully human torso, and said as she kissed her shoulder, "Mmm…my love, you feel so wonderful." When she brought her hands up to her heavy breasts, the masses spilling over her palms as she cupped them firmly, Janeway started attacking Seven's neck with her lips and tongue and asked, with wanton desire clear in her tone, "You know, now that I've talked to Tom and Nick…I don't have anything terribly important to do tomorrow until the late afternoon." Manipulating Seven's womanly swells with more purpose, focusing on the rosy areola, she continued, "I'm wondering if you were interested in delaying our morning jog and perhaps working only a half day?" Before Seven could ask for complete details, she explained, "Because, if you are agreeable, I'd like very much to make love to you tonight." Kissing her ear more, she whispered, "All night…I need you tonight, darling. I want you, Seven of Nine."

Turning around, Seven managed, "Acceptable," before she kissed Janeway fiercely and pinned her up against the wall. Then easing up, she took a deep breath and then sighed as Janeway chuckled, "I have waited for almost three years for this moment, Kathryn." Swallowing, she informed, "It has been…difficult at times to restrain myself."

Janeway nipped at Seven's chin and said, "Mmm…I know how difficult it can be." Then kissing her quickly, she said, "I need to use the bathroom…why don't you get cozy in the bed, and I promise to be quick."

"I will comply," Seven smiled leaving Janeway after closing her eyes for a moment to compose herself, and crawled into the bed, looking as giddy as the captain had ever seen her reserved, stoic officer.

The captain took a deep breath, feeling somewhat giddy and nervous herself and went into the bathroom. After using the facilities, she jumped into the shower quickly, wanting to be completely clean and fresh, and needing the water to reenergize her because even though she was pulsing with adreneline, she had had a stressful day and she was determined to make this night one for the record books. After her quick shower, she dried her body, brushed her teeth, and hung up her white linen pants and the matching silk tank top she had worn to dinner on the hook that was on the back of her door. Reaching down, she snatched up Seven's biosuit that was just outside the bathroom, having a small laugh at how funny the thing looked with it wasn't clinging to Seven's every curve and then donned her silk robe, because she wanted to talk to Seven a little before she actually made love to her, and she figured she would have an easier time restraining herself if she had some clothing on since she was fairly certain Seven was still nude in their bed.

Walking out of the ensuite, she said to the air, "Computer, log me and Seven of Nine as off-duty for personal reasons until 1300 hours tomorrow." Once the computer said that her request was so logged, she went on, "Computer, place a privacy seal on my cabin door, on my communicator as well as Seven of Nine's communicator informing the crew that we do not wish to be disturbed unless it is an emergency. Authorization, Janeway beta, tango, seven, nine, red."

Seven cocked her eyebrow at that as she sat up and stated, "You have changed your command code authorization. It is efficient."

Janeway smirked and informed in her smoky voice, "It certainly makes it easy to remember." Crawling up on the bed at Seven's feet as the blonde laid back down, only a sheet covering half of her body, Janeway came to a rest at her waist and straddled her. After she leaned down and kissed her softly, Janeway sat up halfway, keeping her arms next to Seven's head and asked, "Darling, do you mind if we talk a little before we do anything more?"

"I do not object, my Kathryn, " Seven informed placing her hands on Janeway's hips. "You have secured an acceptable amount of time for us to complete our task."

Smiling, Janeway pressed one hand to her lips and then brought it to Seven's and asked as she sat all the way up, grabbed Seven's hands and pulled her up with her. Now sitting in the Borg's lap, their faces right next to each other, the captain took a moment to kiss her lips before she asked, "Are you nervous?"

"I am experiencing a great deal of anticipation and very little apprehension," Seven informed easily before she kissed Janeway's neck lightly.

"Mmm," Kathryn smiled, titling her head so Seven could continue. Hugging her partner, Janeway asked, "Is there anything specific that you like…or don't like?"

Curious as to the question, Seven pulled away so she could look at Janeway's face and informed, "I do not believe that I have enough experience to answer that question. However, I have enjoyed everything that you have done to me thus far. I do not believe that there is anything that you could do that I would not enjoy…however, if that occurs, I will inform you immediately…on my honor."

Janeway had to smile brightly at that, finding the influence that B'Elanna had over Seven so utterly endearing. After kissing Seven sweetly, she queried against her lips, "Does that mean that you and B'Elanna haven't made love?"

Seven finally understood what this line of questioning was about and answered, bringing the captain's hand up to her lips, "No, Kathryn…we have not." Sighing, Seven explained, "I feel I must inform you that it was not at my doing. As you know, I have been…frustrated. However, B'Elanna Torres explained to me one night while we were...'close'...that as much as she loved me and wanted to make love to me, she would not do so."

Frowning somewhat, Kathryn asked softly, "Did she tell you why?"

"Yes," Seven smiled, but didn't show teeth. "She stated that it was not fair to you. That if…certain events had not occurred, you would have already made love to me, and that she wasn't going to let…certain individuals ruin that experience for you." Kissing Kathryn quickly, hoping to get off the subject of Janeway's assault since the Borg knew that her captain was still experiencing several negative side-effects, and finished, "She said that it was important to her to let you teach me this…as you have taught me everything else. After she explained this to me…I agreed and felt that it was prudent to wait for you." Sighing, she smirked and informed, "I am pleased that I no longer have to wait, however."

Ordinarily, such an event would make the good captain feel like the most selfish creature alive, however, tonight, whether it be the woman in her arms or just the fact that she had made several big decisions that would change her life inexorably today, both professionally and personally, that admission filled her with the greatest sense of purpose she had felt in quite some time. Nodding, as she reminded herself to shower B'Elanna Torres with adoration the next time she saw her for this gift she had restored to her, Janeway smiled brightly and said, "I'm glad you don't have to wait any longer." After kissing her sweetly, she smiled and said excited, feeling like a schoolgirl herself, "I'm going to make love to you now…ready?"

As Janeway eased her back, Seven of Nine smiled and replied, remaining very even and precise on purpose since she knew Kathryn enjoyed her dry sense of humor at times like this, "That is correct. Please proceed."

Chuckling, Janeway allowed Seven to lie all the way back on their bed before she leaned down as well. Bracing herself above the blonde for a few moments, the captain gazed down into Seven's eyes, and she was not at all surprised when the ex-drone continued to hold her stare and smile with her. Then very softly the captain eased her body forward until she was resting on Seven. Bringing one hand to Seven's cheek, she grazed it with her knuckles a few times before she closed her eyes, whispering her undying love before she kissed her again. When the younger woman almost immediately deepened the kiss, while she brought her human hand to her back and pulled her in closer, Kathryn moved her hand behind Seven's neck as she moaned into her mouth and intensified the embrace until they were both breathing heavily. Feeling Seven's human hand start to rub her back more insistently, Kathryn broke the kiss, sat up straight, flushing right along with her pale lover and asked in her trademark smoky voice, "Am I bothering you, darling?"

"Yes, Kathryn," Seven swallowed then smirked as she moved both of her hands to Janeway's waist.

Smiling a little wickedly, the captain brought her hands to the knot at her waist and slowly untied the clasp for her silk robe. Once that was done, she held Seven's stare while she opened the garment, let it fall off her thin shoulders and then haphazardly tossed it to the floor. As Seven smiled brightly again, the captain moved up on her torso enough so she could pull down the covers somewhat. Then slipping underneath them as well, letting them cover the bottom half of their bodies while they reclined, Kathryn positioned herself easily over Seven again, although this time straddling only one of her legs. Immediately she pressed forward into Seven's body, reveling in the feel of her bare skin against Seven's again, a feeling that drove her absolutely frantic with desire each time she experienced it, and even more so tonight because she knew that she wasn't going to have to stop and go to the Bridge or wherever. No, tonight she could stay and embrace her fully for as long as she wanted. Tonight she could kiss Seven, touch, smell, hear, see and taste her all night long, and that's what she planned on doing.

She was the captain afterall, and the universe absolutely would submit to her will tonight or there would be hell to pay indeed.

After Janeway kissed her mouth again and slowly moved to her neck, while she gently kneeded one of her breasts, Seven reached down with her human hand, cupped Kathryn's bottom and urged her to press her leg into her now aching center as she whispered, "Please, Kathryn...touch me here." When Janeway complied, pushing her thigh into Seven's body harder, purred and lifted her head while she increased the pressure of her hands as well, Seven informed seriously, but sweetly, as she cradled Kathryn's face with her Borg hand, "I am not certain exactly what it is that I require at this moment, but whatever it is you are preparing to do, please do it quickly," when Kathryn hummed and increased the pressure of her leg then began undulating against Seven as she said, "mmm, Seven...you're so wet, love," Seven nodded, "That is correct...it is becoming unbearable."

Understanding that Seven of Nine had been patiently waiting for this moment for a very long time, Kathryn decided to not prolong the experience since she knew there would be plenty more opportunity tonight to pamper her lover, and figuring that Seven wanted her to remain close to her at this moment, Kathryn leaned over onto her left side, still halfway on top of the Borg, and somewhat languidly trailed her right hand down Seven's flat torso while she kissed her neck and chin hotly. When she reached the juncture of her legs, she replaced her own thigh with her palm, her fingertips tingling just in the anticipation of what she would feel as Seven's chest heaved and her larger breasts flattened the captain's own modest swells. Dipping into the wellspring of quicksilver moisture as Seven gasped her name and grabbed onto the side of their bed with her Borg hand in an obvious attempt to keep the potentially damaging material far away from Kathryn's flesh, Janeway surged foward again and kissed Seven even more passionately as she stroked Seven's crease with careful, but building purpose. When Seven's hips began rocking on their own and she bent both of her legs somewhat, opening herself up on instinct, Janeway let up on her kisses so she could look into the blonde's face as her own body began to burn with a commanding fever.

Seven forced her eyes open, even though she was now having a great deal of difficulty remaining focused and when she looked upon Janeway and recognized the wanton, needful turn to her slightly gapping mouth and jaw, Seven cupped Janeway's bottom again and urged her to move her pelvis in rythm with her own, raising her right hip to assist Kathryn's own pleasure. When the redhead complied with her wishes and hissed, "Oh yes..." Seven inhaled deeply, the scent of each of their unique essence strong in her nostrils while she breathed, having to close her eyes and press her head back while she pushed as much of her body as she could up against Janeway's, "Kathryn."

As the Borg began to writhe more beneath her, Janeway instinctively knew she had to be nearing release, and having no idea really how Seven reacted when she climaxed, Kathryn slipped her free arm underneath her neck so she could hold her close as they continued to rock steadily and almost soundlessly. When the next words out of the Borg's mouth were a shallow, "Please, Kathryn," Janeway began kissing her neck, near her ear and whispered as she slipped a single digit into Seven's body, not surprised when the inner muscles barely made room for her middle finger, while she swirled her thumb around the blonde's inflamed nerve bundle, "Come for me, darling...don't fight it...just let it happen." When Seven shuddered once and the sound of ripping material was heard, Janeway continued to speak to her as their movement increased at Seven's insistent arm's and hip's request, "Oh, I love you, Seven of Nine...mmm, you're so perfect....yes, my love...ohyes, that's it...come for me." Pressing her single finger inside of Seven as far as she could as the blonde's breathing grew shorter and her enhanced hand ripped through their bedding as she dug into it while her hips started to buck erratically, Kathryn said, "Oh Seven, yes darling...that's so good...mmmhmm...god, you're so amazing, Seven."

"Kathryn...Kathryn....Kathryn," Seven of Nine whispered as the captain's words drove her to the brink, and pulling Janeway as close as she could to her without constricting the smaller female's chest, she gasped her lover's name again, while she ripped through the covers more and tensed. As her nervous system felt like it was overloaded by an electric charge, and her neural processor that controlled her analytical mind became completely useless for a moment, making it impossible for Seven to remember everything as she normally could, Seven's blue eyes flew open as she arched her back, lifting both of them easily and pressed her head back as far as she could into the pillow, not fighting the feeling as Kathryn had told her, believing with the purest trust that Janeway would never lead her astray.

"Ohyes, darling...mmm...I'm here with you, Seven," Janeway whispered into the Borg's ear as she tensed, arched and quaked in her arms. Once Seven's back relaxed and she fell limp against the mattress again, Janeway began kissing her softly, starting at her ear and slowly trailing to her lips, As she tenderly embraced Seven's slightly gapping lips with her own, the blonde's eyes now closed again, the captain didn't attempt to withdraw herself from the blonde until she felt her start to respond to her lips and begin to rub her back languidly with her human hand. Carefully, Kathryn pulled out of her, manuevered her body so she was all the way on top of Seven again and continued to kiss her lovingly, increasing the passion only slightly. After a few blissful moments, when she was certain Seven's breathing had returned to normal and the woman felt completely relaxed in her arms, her left limb still wrapped behind her neck, Janeway eased away from her lips, planted soft non-kisses all over the blonde's porcelain face, telling her how amazing she was, how much she loved her, and on and on. Then coming back to center, Kathryn smiled brightly when she saw the gigantic smile on Seven's face and remarked, "Are you always going to be that incredible...because if you are, we should probably inform the Doctor that I'll need a few heart transplants."

Seven expelled the air from her lungs, letting out a small sound of pleasure which Janeway recognized as her laugh, and said bringing up her enhanced hand to Janeway's face, "You are being facetious, my beautiful Kathryn," cocking an eyebrow, "it is typical behavior." When Janeway barked in joy once and then kissed her fairly quickly, Seven hugged her tighter, and continued, sighing blissfully, "I believe I enjoyed that activity even more than I enjoyed swiming with you in the river." Swallowing and nodding adamently, she blinked and stated, "That is correct...a great deal more, actually." Seven kissed Janeway smartly and informed, "Kathryn, I am unable to give you a detailed analysis of that event at this time...I believe more research is required." Rolling them over quickly, as Janeway smiled and bit her bottom lip, Seven informed, smirking, "I wish to repeat the process immediately...you must comply."

Janeway, even though she was highly aroused, selflessly set her needs aside, knowing that not only did Seven of Nine deserve to be tended to all night long, but that she would get a great deal of pleasure out of having the privilege of being able to do so, urged Seven to straddle her hips and replied after she sat them up, requested that Seven rise up on her knees silently with her body language, and began paying the younger woman's bosom very close attention with her mouth, "Mmm...I will comply."

fin