Part III

Kathryn woke early. She paused in the outer room and gazed at the lanky blonde stretched out on her couch. She walked across the room and looked down at the sleeping woman. Seven looked so different when she was asleep, she thought. She pulled the blanket further up on the young woman and softly caressed the soft cheek for a moment then with a sigh headed for the bridge. As she walked down the corridor her mind drifted to Seven and the way she looked sprawled out on the couch sleeping. She smiled at the image. The sound of approaching crewmen startled her out of her reverie. She started to walk on when bits of their conversation reached her. Quickly she stepped into a recess out of sight.

"…crazy. I heard she destroyed the ready room then demoted Lt. Torres when the damage couldn't be repaired."

"I don't know why Chakotay doesn't just take command. It wouldn't be mutiny if she's mentally unstable," one of the crewmen said.

"Maybe she just isn't getting any from her borg lately," the other laughed as they walked on.

By the time the crewmen had past, Janeway was seething. She clinched her jaw and forced herself to count to ten. Control. Control. She repeated over and over. She had to keep her emotions in check or she would be in real danger of losing the ship, of losing her command. She was sure she could never live through that. Janeway snarled. Talk about a mutiny on my ship will they. She walked quickly to the nearest console and started entering commands. A few minutes later, feeling much better, she headed cheerfully to the bridge.

Captain Janeway stepped onto the bridge.

"Ensign Tuvok," she nodded pleasantly. Damn, she thought halfway to the command chair; I have to remember that it is 'Lt.' Tuvok. She shook her head. This memory loss was annoying. She slipped easily into the chair as Chakotay vacated it on her approach. She glanced at her chronometer as she slouched nonchalantly. Any minute now, she thought grinning despite herself. She reached over and held a finger on the com waiting. Then, the lights went down and the red alert signal wailed. She punched the com open, set back, waited, and listened.

"Captain, I've lost control of the helm," Tom Paris called, his voice higher than normal.

"I've lost operations," Harry Kim said. Tuvok raised an eyebrow.

"Likewise, tactical is not functioning," he said, confusion showing briefly on the normally placid Vulcan features. Chakotay bolted upright at the sound of the alarm. As the reports came in his mind worked furiously. Then he realized that Captain Janeway was sitting relaxed in her chair with a grin that could only be described as evil on her face. Her console was working perfectly he realized. He leaned over to her.

"It is customary to inform your first officer when you run a drill, Captain," he said grinning.

Janeway looked at him her face suddenly serious. "I see," she said slowly. Then she leaned over to him. "Commander Chakotay," she whispered, "I'm running a drill."

Chakotay laughed aloud at her reply. "Testing the crew's reflexes?" he asked.

Janeway did frown now. "It came to my attention that they may have too much time on their hands. Especially when my personal life is their main topic of discussion." A sharp pain shot through her head. Janeway bit off a moan and grabbed her head. …And finally my personal life is not up for discussion. The words echoed through her head. A memory she realized. Not much of one granted, but she knew the words. She knew she had said them. When, where, and concerning what, she wasn't sure.

"Captain, are you alright?" Chakotay asked concerned.

Janeway shook her head to clear it. The pain was easing now. "I'm fine Commander. Just a little headache." She silenced the alarm on the bridge hoping her first officer would accept her explanation. Apparently, he did because he leaned back in his chair and began to enjoy the effects of the Captain's surprise drill.

 


"Engineering to the bridge," Lt. B'Elanna Torres yelled over the red alert klaxon, as she frantically tried to decipher the contradictory readings her console was giving her.

"Engineering to the bridge," she called again when there was no response.

"Computer, what is the status of communications?" the engineer asked trying to ignore the rolling beginning in her gut.

"Communications are online," the computer replied.

"Computer, what is the status of the bridge?" B'Elanna tried again.

"The bridge has been destroyed," the computer replied impassively. B'Elanna felt like she was a warp care caught in the middle of a breach. Her world and her ship were falling apart around her. She turned back to the console desperately trying to make sense of the data it was sending her. She looked up briefly when she heard the door open behind her. It was with some relief that she saw it was Seven of Nine. Seven walked briskly to the console adjacent to Lt. Torres. She frowned as she skimmed the data.

"Hey," B'Elanna snapped as Seven pushed her away from the console. "What do you think you're doing?" B'Elanna began to fume as the borg ignored her and continued working at B'Elanna's console. B'Elanna grabbed Seven's arm and yanked. Seven turned at B'Elanna's grasp and moved towards the furious woman. B'Elanna teetered off balance at the lack of resistance. Seven looked down at her with a hint of amusement in her face.

"It is a drill," she stated calmly. B'Elanna stopped and gave Seven a stunned look.

"A drill?" she asked looking around at the chaos of engineering. Her stunned look was quickly replaced by one of outrage. "All this is just a drill?" she said again. Seven wisely stepped back as B'Elanna stalked the room spitting Klingon epitaphs. Finally, she calmed enough to speak coherently.

"Alright people, here's what we do…" B'Elanna began to give clear orders to her staff and began solving the multiple problems thrown at them by the unexpected drill.


 

Janeway entered her quarters nearly dancing. The drill had been a success. She had figuratively caught them with their pants down. She smiled to herself as she recalled the after action review and the consternation of the various department heads at being caught unawares. Her eyes lit on Seven and her smile grew broader.

"Hello Seven," she called across the room. Seven looked up from her PADD.

"Good evening, Kathryn," Seven answered. Kathryn walked over and leaned over Seven's shoulder.

"Working? You're off duty. You should be relaxing," she told Seven.

"I do not see the purpose in 'relaxing', it seems inefficient," Seven stated. "What does one do when 'relaxing'?" she asked.

Janeway stepped back. Her eyes raking over Seven's body. "Well," she said suggestively, "I can think of several things we could do to relax."

After a moments analyzation she realized that Kathryn's comment was a sexual innuendo. Seven felt herself blush at Janeway's words and wondered why she should. She frowned at Kathryn.

"I do not think what you are suggesting is appropriate," she informed her captain. "I am going to regenerate," she said and quickly rose and left the cabin. After the door closed, Kathryn burst out laughing. It was so easy to ruffle Seven's feathers she thought humming to herself.

"Seven," Chakotay called after the woman hurrying down the corridor.

Seven turned. "Commander Chakotay," she acknowledged.

"Where are you off to in such a hurry?" he asked.

"I was planning to regenerate," Seven replied stiffly.

Chakotay frowned. "Didn't you regenerate this morning?" he asked. "I thought you were decreasing the amount of time you spent in the alcove."

Seven stared at the commander for a moment. "Commander, have you ever cohabitated with anyone?" she asked unexpectantly.

Chakotay's brow shot up at the question. "Well no, not on a personal level, but in a way everyone on a ship in space cohabitates," he said cautiously, unsure where the conversation was headed and with Seven, he knew by experience, that could be in any direction.

Seven shifted uncomfortably uncertain how to proceed. "I have discovered that it is sometimes…discomforting being in such close proximity to another being," she said finally.

"Is the captain getting on your nerves, Seven?" he asked chuckling as he realized what Seven was trying to say.

Seven cocked her head to the side as she interpreted the commander's question. Then she nodded. "Yes commander the captain is 'getting on my nerves'," Seven agreed vigorously.

"Well, Seven, I'm on my way to Sandrine's to play pool with Ensign Paris and Lt. Torres. You are welcome to join us," he offered sympathetically.

"That would be acceptable, commander," Seven said. "Thank you," she offered belatedly.

Chakotay smiled, "Wait and thank me after I've cleaned the pool table with you," he said jovially.

Seven nodded agreeably as she tried to decipher what the commander had just said.


Janeway looked up at the chime at the door.

"Enter," she called out cheerfully. The door slid open to reveal Naomi Wildman.

"Good evening, captain," she said looking around curiously.

"Good evening, Naomi," Janeway said smiling. "Can I help you?"

"I was looking for Seven. I thought she might want to play kadiskots with me," Naomi said lifting up the ungainly game.

"I'm afraid Seven went to regenerate," Janeway told Naomi. "I'll play with you," she went on quickly when she saw the disappointment in Naomi's face.

Naomi looked at Janeway in surprise. "You know how to play kadiskots?" she asked obviously amazed.

Janeway laughed. "I may have forgotten a lot of things Naomi Wildman, but playing kadiskots isn't one of them." She tapped the coffee table in front of her. "Come on and set up. Let's see if you can beat a starship captain."

Naomi grinned in delight, "Yes ma'am."


Tom and B'Elanna looked at each other in surprise when Chakotay entered with Seven.

They scooted their chairs around to make room at the table.

Seven nodded. "Ensign Paris, Lt. Torres," she greeted them.

"Hi Seven," Tom said.

B'Elanna nodded and shifted uncomfortably. Despite the fact that she and Seven often worked together, she had never quite learned to relax in the borg's presence. She wish she had Tom's easy way with people. Though she had to admit since the time spent with Seven and the captain in sickbay he was more comfortable with the blonde that he had been before. She wondered briefly if she should feel jealous. She jerked herself out of her reverie as Tom and Chakotay laughed and she realized she had missed part of the conversation. Seven, B'Elanna noted, looked more relaxed than the klingon could ever remember having seen her before.

"So, commander," Tom said over his plate, "did you decide to get a new partner after B'Elanna and I trounced you and Harry last time?"

"Since Harry has started pulling duty on beta shift, I decided I'd better start looking," Chakotay teased back.

"Well then, since its your first time as a team, we'll be nice and rack first tonight," Tom said.

"Fine by me," Chakotay replied diving into his food.


Kathryn watched Naomi set the kadiskots board on the table. She walked over to the replicator.

"I'm a bit hungry Naomi. What about you?" she asked.

Naomi nodded vigorously.

"Well what shall we have then?" Kathryn asked.

"Ice cream," Naomi crowed delighted to be given a choice of dinner.

Kathryn thought that probably ice cream was not the best choice of dinner but the look on Naomi's face convinced her otherwise.

"Ice cream it is," she called and carried over two large bowls of chocolate ice cream to the coffee table. She settled herself on the floor and took a large bite. She closed her eyes savoring the flavor. She really needed to eat ice cream more often she decided. A brief picture of a long lanky borg covered with chocolate ice cream while Kathryn slowly licked it off popped into her mind. She quickly pushed the thought from her mind as Naomi announced that she was ready to play.


Seven turned to Chakotay. "What is the objective of this game?" she asked as Tom set the balls up on the table.

Chakotay turned and quickly explained the rules of the game as Seven listened attentively. He began to grin as Seven asked several pointed and relevant questions about the game. His luck might be picking up, he decided.

Tom tapped the table and indicated that they were ready to begin.

"I’ll break this time Seven," Chakotay said. "That way you can watch a bit before you begin."

Seven nodded and watched with interest as the pool game began. The multitude of angles and vectors fascinated her. Mentally she calculated the precise positioning of the ball, cue and pockets. When her turn came, she quickly lined the ball and cue up. She tapped the ball and it ricocheted wildly around the table. She frowned and looked up at Chakotay.

"Maybe a little lighter touch next time Seven," he said laughing.

Seven watched as the ball still rolled around the table. She raised an eyebrow. "Indeed," she agreed pleasantly.

Chakotay smile broadened as he noticed the slight upward tilt of Seven's lips. Maybe they would see the former borg smile someday, he thought.


"I win," Naomi clapped her hands gleefully.

"Indeed you did," Janeway smiled. "Now we are even. We have each won one game and tied two," she said pushing yet another empty bowl onto the floor.

Naomi rubbed her stomach. "Captain," she said, "I don't feel very well."

Janeway's stomach picked that moment to protest. "Now that you mention it neither do I," she replied.

"Captain," Naomi wailed, "I think I'm going to be sick."

Janeway looked at the small girl rapidly turning green. She dove over the coffee table, scooped her up, and hurried to the bathroom. As Naomi hung retching over the toilet, Janeway clenched her jaw to keep her stomach from turning inside out. Helplessly she patted the small girl on the back. Her stomach lurched again. Naomi sat back for a moment looking pale. Janeway began to worry when the child bent over the toilet again. She hesitated a moment then hit her combadge.

"Janeway to Seven of Nine."

Seven's cue slipped as her combadge activated and the cue ball ricocheted wildly around the table. She straightened and tapped her badge.

"Seven here," she answered.

"Seven I need your assistance," Janeway spoke with her command voice. Seven frowned as she heard the hint of strain and panic underlying it. No one else seemed to notice it though, she noted.

"That's too bad, Seven. I guess you and the commander will have to forfeit this game," Tom said cheerfully.

"Yes," Seven said distractedly, "I find this game interesting. Perhaps we can play again."

Chakotay nodded, "Count on it Seven," he said. He and Seven had lost a few games, but she was a quick study and they had been on their way to beating the dynamic duo this round. Seven nodded and quickly exited the holodeck.

Tom raised an eyebrow at Chakotay. "How about some one on one commander," he challenged.

Chakotay grinned, "You're on."

B'Elanna sighed as the two men began a new game of pool, then settled back to watch the competition.


Seven stepped into the captain's quarters and stopped as she saw the pile of plates and bowls surrounding the coffee table. She stepped over and picked one up gingerly. She sniffed slightly, and detected the scent of chocolate. A sound from the bathroom drew her attention. She quickly crossed and entered the room. Kathryn and Naomi sat huddled by the toilet. Seven cocked her head to the side trying to decide which of the two was greener.

"Seven," Naomi cried, "I'm sick."

"Indeed," Seven replied. She tapped her combadge.

"Ensign Wildman. Report to the captain's quarters," she said.

"On my way," Wildman replied over the com.

Seven knelt and scooped Naomi into her arms. "You will be alright, Naomi Wildman. You have just consumed too many sweets," Seven informed the child.

Naomi nodded and huddled silently in Seven's lap. Kathryn groaned and hugged her stomach.

Seven arched her brow. "Did you overdo your consumption as well?" she asked amusement evident in her voice. Kathryn glared briefly before turning back to the toilet.

Seven carried Naomi into the outer room when the door chimed. Ensign Wildman stood at the door.

"What happened," she exclaimed when she saw Naomi in Seven's arms.

Seven's lips quirked into almost a smile. "Naomi and the captain…overindulged," she explained. Ensign Wildman looked at the mess in the room and sighed. She reached for Naomi.

"Where is the captain?" she asked

Naomi raised up. "She's in the bathroom throwing up," she volunteered. Wildman gave Seven a sympathetic look.

"Well let's get you home Naomi. Thank you Seven," she said as they left.

Seven nodded, "You are welcome," she replied. She turned after the door closed and began to clean up the dishes scattered around the room. When she finished she returned and collected Kathryn from the bathroom floor.

"Your choice of food was imprudent," she told Kathryn.

Kathryn growled slightly, but said nothing. Seven helped her into bed then sat quietly keeping vigil until Kathryn fell asleep.

Samantha Wildman sat by Naomi's bed until the girl fell into a fitful sleep. As she got ready for bed, she sent up a small prayer. Please let me live long enough to see Captain Janeway have kids of her own.


Janeway sat in the command chair, stared at the desolate rocky planet on the screen, and silently fumed. Granted, they needed to investigate any possible fuel source, but that didn't mean Seven had to volunteer for the mission. She mentally counted her breaths in an effort to control herself. Seven had been on away missions before, she was sure, but she had no memory of them. She wondered how she had stood it. She looked down at the bite of pain that shot through her hand. Slowly she unclenched her fist and stared detachedly at the blood her nails had drawn. She focused on the pain and her mind turned back to a time where pain was the only thing keeping her sane. Panic flooded her and she stood abruptly.

"I'll be in my ready room. Inform me as soon as the away team returns," she announced coldly.

Chakotay shot Tuvok a worried look as the captain disappeared. Tuvok frowned thoughtfully at the closed door, then returned Chakotay's gaze with a lifted brow.

In her ready room, Janeway paced restlessly. Being stuck in the delta quadrant was insufferable. She slammed a fist down on her desk. There had to be a way to get home faster. Her mind raced as she explored and discarded possibilities. She knew from her logs that they had already lost more crewmembers than was acceptable to her. She wasn't prepared to loose one particular crewmember. Of all the possibilities she could think of, the only feasible one was a transwarp conduit. The problem was she had no idea how to go about getting a transwarp coil. She dropped to her chair and stared moodily out the viewport.

"Captain, the away team has returned," Chakotay's voice jerked Janeway out of her reverie.

She stood quickly, "Acknowledged commander," she said. She looked at the chronometer. It was well into beta shift. She smoothed her tunic and headed to her quarters.

Seven hurried to the captain's quarters. Normally she would be reporting to sickbay with the rest of the away team. After the debriefing, however, Commander Chakotay had pulled her aside and hinted that not all was well with the captain. The quarters were dark when she entered.

"Computer, lights," she ordered.

The lights came on. Kathryn was sitting in the corner chair with a glass in her hand and a half-empty bottle at her side. She looked at Seven with glazed eyes.

"I see you made it back," she slurred.

Seven stepped over to the redhead. "Kathryn, what are you doing?" she asked.

Kathryn gave a short bark. "Getting drunk," she said humorlessly.

Seven frowned. "I was worried, the commander said you were not well," she stated.

"You were worried," Janeway exclaimed lurching to her feet. "Don't talk to me about worried." She turned her back on Seven and waved her glass in the air. "You take a stupid risk and volunteer for this away mission and you were worried," her voice dripped with sarcasm.

"Kathryn," Seven tried to reason, "there was no real danger on this mission. We were simply investigating a possible fuel source. The planet was uninhabited. It was unlikely anything would have gone wrong."

Kathryn spun around. "You just wanted to get away from me," she said shrilly.

"No," Seven began only to be cut off.

"Yes, just like the rest of them. Just like Daddy. Just like Justin. You want to leave me," Kathryn screamed.

Seven took a deep breath, "Kathryn I do not understand," she said reaching out to put her arms around the captain.

"Don't touch me," Kathryn howled, jerking back and spilling the contents of her glass down Seven's front. Her left hand shot up and raked Seven across the face. Kathryn froze as Seven's face hardened. Seven slowly lifted her hand to her cheek and then pulled it away to look at it. She stared at the blood on her hand for a moment then turned and stalked out the door.

Janeway sank to the floor sobbing. "What have I done? What have I done?" she moaned.

Seven felt a sense of relief when she stepped into sickbay and saw only the doctor and Lt. Torres. She did not think she could face the rest of the away team. She turned her head to the side as B'Elanna looked up.

"Hey, Seven. Everything alright with the captain?" B'Elanna asked.

Seven considered her possible replies. "She has been better," she finally said.

B'Elanna frowned at the stiffness in Seven's voice. She moved across the room to the woman.

"Hey," B'Elanna said softly, putting a hand on Seven's shoulder.

Seven jumped at the unexpected touch and the sound of B'Elanna so near.

B'Elanna gasped as she saw Seven's cheek. "Kahless, Seven. What happened?" she asked turning Seven's head so she could examine the borg's face.

Seven clinched her jaw several times. She was dismayed to find herself shaking. Her eyes were burning and it took her a minute to realize that she was crying.

"Doctor," B'Elanna called. The doctor looked up from the panel where he was examining he results of the away team's physicals. At the sight of Seven's distraught state he hurried over to the two women.

"Seven, what happened?" he asked when he saw her face. "Why wasn't I informed that you were injured on the away mission?"

"She wasn't," B'Elanna snapped. "This is courtesy of our captain," she said motioning towards Seven.

Seven flinched at B'Elanna's tone. "It was an accident," she said.

"Oh come on, Seven," B'Elanna retorted. "Scratches that deep are no accident."

"It was an accident," Seven repeated stubbornly.

B'Elanna snorted. "Alright, suit yourself. It was an accident."

Seven stood quietly as the doctor ran the dermal regenerator over her cuts. He looked worriedly at Lt. Torres.

"Have the captain see me first thing in the morning," he said.

Seven nodded.

"Seven," B'Elanna said as the blonde turned to leave.

"Are you alright?" she asked.

"I am tired. I will be recovered once I have regenerated," she said walking towards the door.

"That's not what I meant, Seven," B'Elanna said.

Seven paused at the door. "Sometimes I do not like being human," she said softly then walked out the door.

B'Elanna stood staring at the door for several minutes. Then nodded as she came to a decision.


B'Elanna Torres impatiently pushed the door chime again. She stepped back frowning when there was still no answer.

"Computer locate Captain Janeway," she commanded.

"Captain Janeway is in her quarters," the computer replied.

B'Elanna pushed the chime again. She swore softly when there was still no answer. She reached over and keyed a string of commands into the control panel. This could get her the captain's mast in Starfleet she realized, but then she wasn't Starfleet she thought sourly. The door slid open. B'Elanna stepped inside. Her eyes grew round in amazement at the amount of sheer damaged that had been rendered on the living quarters. Most of the furniture had been overturned. The coffee table was in three different pieces. Although Janeway's quarters didn't boast a large number of bric brac, what was there was scattered or broken. She stepped carefully through the mess searching for the captain. She was unprepared for what she did find. Janeway was curled sobbing in the shower floor. B'Elanna knelt.

"Captain," she asked softly, "are you ok?"

Janeway opened her eyes. "She's never coming back," she sobbed.

B'Elanna patted her shoulder awkwardly. "Its all right captain, she'll be back," B'Elanna said unsure what she should do.

Janeway shook her head vigorously. "No she won't. I was horrible to her. I hit her," her voice shook as she admitted what she had done. "I didn't mean to do that. I was so scared."

"Why were you afraid?" B'Elanna asked.

Janeway trembled. "Everyone I love leaves," she hiccupped, "or dies," she said so softly that B'Elanna almost didn't hear her. B'Elanna slid the rest of the way to the floor and put her arms around the captain. This was definitely not what she had in mind when she had decided to confront the captain. She had planned to give Captain Janeway a piece of her mind about how she treated Seven. Instead, she rocked the woman in her arms trying her best to soothe away the fears.

Seven stepped into the captain's quarters. She raised an eyebrow in surprise when she saw Lt. Torres sitting in the middle of the floor with a stack of wood.

"Lt. Torres," Seven called out, "What are you doing?"

B'Elanna looked up pushing her hair out of her face. "I'm trying to fix this bloody coffee table," she said in exasperation.

Seven slowly walked around the seated woman and examined the situation. "It appears to be beyond repair," she stated finally.

B'Elanna glared at her. "Thanks for the vote of confidence," she said sarcastically.

Seven's lips twitched in an almost smile. "Where is Kath….the captain," she asked.

B'Elanna nodded her head towards the bedroom. Seven turned and went to the bedroom door. Kathryn was curled up sleeping with her arms wrapped around a pillow. Seven could see tear stains on her cheeks. Her chest felt uncomfortably tight as she gazed on the sleeping woman. She backed slowly away from the door.

"Well that's it," B'Elanna said sitting the repaired coffee table upright. "I guess, I'll see you later Seven," B'Elanna said, eager to leave now Seven had returned. It wasn't that she disliked the borg, she just never knew what to say to her. She turned to walk out the door.

"Thank you B'Elanna Torres," Seven said just before the door shut. B'Elanna paused at Seven's words then walked away smiling.


"Well doctor?" Janeway asked from the biobed.

"I have some good news and some bad news," the doctor told her. "It appears that the synaptic relays that access your memory center are attempting to repair themselves. Whether on not it will be successful remains to be seen," he said cheerfully.

Janeway grimaced. "What's the bad news?" she asked.

"The bad news is I can't find any reason for your emotional unbalance. The brain is still uncharted territory captain. There is too much we still do not know about how it works. All I can tell you is that for some reason the control you once had over your emotions is gone. My advice is to attempt to relearn that control."

Janeway nodded and hopped off the bed. The doctor turned to the console and began humming as he worked. Janeway stopped halfway to the door.

"What is that you're humming doctor?" she asked.

"Hmmm? Oh," the doctor said looking up, "its Bach."

Janeway closed her eyes as a burst of pain streaked through her head. She likes Bach. You could get her a music box or something.

"Captain, are you all right?" the doctor asked concerned.

Janeway opened her eyes. "Oh yes, I just thought of something I needed to do," she said and hurried out the door.

Seven stepped into Astrometrics and froze. Sitting on her console was a dozen red roses. She crossed the room and picked up the card attached to the vase. 'Please have dinner with me tonight. K.' Seven smiled. She had eaten dinner often with Kathryn, especially since the accident, but this was the first time she had been given a formal invitation. She quickly sent a personal message to the captain accepting her invitation.

"Captain, you wanted to see me?" Tuvok asked.

Janeway looked up from her desk. "Yes Ensign…I mean Lt. Tuvok. I did." She motioned to a seat. Once Tuvok was seated, Janeway found she had trouble putting words to her problem. Noticing her unease Tuvok spoke.

"Does this have anything to do with the incident with Seven yesterday?" he asked calmly.

Janeway shot him a quick look. "Does everyone know?" she asked sourly.

Tuvok shook his head. "No Captain. Just the commander, Lt. Torres, the doctor, and myself."

Janeway nodded in relief. "I have spoken with the doctor. He doesn't have an explanation for my…outbursts. He recommended that I attempt to relearn my emotional controls." Janeway cocked her head to the side. "I was hoping you could help," she finished.

"Indeed, captain," Tuvok said. "There are several meditative techniques that I could show you. The process will not be completed immediately, but will require a long period of time and dedication," he explained carefully.

Janeway nodded. "I'm willing. I'll do whatever it takes to prevent what happened yesterday from reoccurring. Where do we start?" she asked leaning forward on the desk. She spent the rest of the morning with Tuvok learning Vulcan emotional control techniques.


Commander Chakotay paused outside the door to Astrometrics. He had been shocked when he read the doctor's report that morning. He understood, from the doctor's updates, that the loss of memory and self-control was a side effect from her treatment in the hands of the Par Ni. It was one thing for the captain to loose control on occasion, but if it was turning physically violent then something had to be done. He took a deep breath and opened the door.

Seven looked up from her console as Commander Chakotay entered the room.

"Commander," she acknowledged. "Are you in need of my assistance?"

"Actually Seven, I wanted to ask you that," Chakotay said.

Seven's ocular implant danced as she raised her brow. "I do not believe I require assistance at this time," she said evenly.

Chakotay leaned against the rail running across the room in an attempt to look more relaxed than he felt.

"I understand you and the captain had an altercation last night," he said looking pointedly into Seven's eyes.

"That is between Kathryn and myself," Seven stated coldly and moved around the console.

Chakotay wondered which surprised him more, Seven's use of the captain's first name or the dozen roses that came into view as Seven moved.

"Seven, I know you want to help the captain, but that doesn't mean you should put yourself into unsafe situations. If it is better for you to stay away from her then you should," Chakotay said.

Seven furiously typed on the keypad.

"I know that this is difficult Seven. If you need to talk, I have a willing ear," he offered.

"I do not wish to discuss this," she stated without looking up.

Chakotay stood for a few minutes then sighed as he realized he would get nothing more from the young woman at the moment.

"All right Seven, but don't forget. The offer stands," he said then exited the lab.


Seven paused outside the captain's quarters. She tried to ignore the nervous flutters in her stomach. She had not spoken to Kathryn since the night before. The thought of facing Kathryn filled her with trepidation. She took a deep breath and entered.

Kathryn looked up when the door slid open. She had been afraid that Seven would change her mind. Now she stood staring as Seven crossed the room, unable to take her eyes off of the beautiful woman. For a moment desire rose in her eyes but she quickly looked away hoping Seven hadn't seen it. Kathryn wanted this night to be perfect and that meant putting the teasing aside. Seven stopped in front of Kathryn feeling unsure of herself and nervous at Kathryn's silence. She glanced around the room. The table had been set and the lights dimmed as candles lit the room. The aroma from the table informed her that this wasn't simply a replicated meal. She sniffed appreciatively. Kathryn smiled and gestured towards the table. Seven went to sit down and was surprised when Kathryn held her chair for her. She recovered quickly, recalling the doctor's lessons in dating, and allowed herself to be seated. Kathryn sat down across from her.

"Thank you for coming tonight, Seven," Kathryn said softly. "I know… I know that what I did yesterday was inexcusable, but I hope that you can find it in your heart to forgive me. It will never happen again. I swear it," Kathryn said earnestly. Kathryn's heart jumped as Seven hesitated.

 

"You are forgiven," Seven said finally.

Kathryn let out a breath. "Thank you, Seven." She smiled and reached down beside her chair. "I have something for you," she said handing Seven a package across the table.

Seven eyes widened in surprise as she took the small box. She looked at Kathryn for a moment then opened it. Delight danced across her features as she pulled out a small music box. She flipped the catch and opened the top, releasing the sounds of music into the room. Seven felt her heart jump as she looked at the exquisite gift. She looked up at Kathryn with bright eyes.

"I do not believe I have ever been given a gift before. Thank you. It is…" she stopped mesmerized by the look on Kathryn's face, "beautiful," she said, then wondered if she was talking about the music box or Kathryn.


Chakotay walked into the mess hall. After a quick glance, he crossed the room. "Good evening Tuvok," Chakotay said as he slid into the seat across from the vulcan.

"Good evening, Commander," Tuvok replied.

Tuvok cocked his head and waited patiently. The commander obviously had something on his mind.

Chakotay cleared his throat. "About the incident with the captain and Seven," he began.

"Which incident do you refer to commander? " Tuvok asked.

Chakotay ran his fingers through his hair agitatedly.

"The one where the captain physically assaulted Seven," he said.

"I do not believe there is cause for concern Commander," Tuvok replied. "The captain is in the process of regaining control of her emotions," Tuvok went on when he saw Chakotay's shocked expression. "I believe her feelings for Seven are enough encouragement for her to succeed."

"Her feelings for Seven?" Chakotay asked in surprise.

"Indeed," Tuvok said. "The captain exhibits every sign of being in love with Seven. I believe that will work in favor of her recovery."

Chakotay frowned. "What about Seven?" he asked.

"I do not think she is adverse to receiving the captain's affection," he replied evenly.

Chakotay was silent for a moment as he digested this new piece of information.

"Thank you Tuvok," he said finally and walked away with a bemused expression on his face. Regardless of his earlier conversation with the captain he didn’t expect her to actually initiate a relationship with Seven. Chakotay smiled suddenly. He had a feeling that things were looking up. Whistling he headed off to go over some reports before he turned in for the evening.


Seven tossed on the couch. Sleep was becoming increasingly difficult. The couch seemed to get more uncomfortable each night and, she admitted, being in Kathryn's presence was becoming increasingly stressful. Though tonight had been pleasant, she recalled. After dinner they had sat and talked until late. With a sigh of resignation she got up and walked to the desk. If she could not sleep then she would get some work done.

Kathryn sat up in bed gasping for air. Disoriented for a moment she finally realized where she was. She had been dreaming. Again. She hadn't mentioned the dreams to anyone, but they were becoming increasingly terrifying though she didn't know why. In the dream, she was looking out the view window of her quarters and there was nothing but blackness. At first, the dreams hadn't bothered her but each time she dreamed she realized time had passed. This time she realized that she had been looking into empty space for months. The despair that washed down on her was crushingly frightful. Her ear picked up a soft sound from the outer room. Quietly she slid out of bed and walked to the door. Seven sat at the desk, her face illuminated from the glow of the screen. Kathryn watched the young blonde woman for a moment. Seven was gazing intently at the screen; her brow furrowed a bit in concentration. Kathryn felt an upwelling of affection immediately followed by a stronger emotion. She quickly squashed down her desire. She had been teasing Seven unmercifully. She wouldn't make things more difficult by pushing the woman too far. That didn't mean she couldn't do anything, though. She walked quietly across the room. Seven looked up from the screen.

"Are you unwell, Kathryn?" she asked concern lacing her words.

Kathryn gently rested her hands on Seven's shoulders. "No," she said, "I'm fine. I just don't want to be alone tonight. That's all."

Seven nodded in understanding. Her eyes closed as Kathryn slowly began to massage her shoulders. The sensation was extremely pleasant. She could feel the heat of Kathryn's hands through her suit. She could feel each individual finger as they sought out knotted muscles and slowly coaxed them to relax. She could feel...startled Seven realized that she had never experienced so much physical contact before. In fact, other than dancing lessons with the doctor, she could hardly remember being touched by anyone before. Dancing with the doctor had not felt like this. She shivered as an electrical current ran from the top of her head to her toes.

Kathryn worked slowly, gratified as she felt the tense muscles relax under her fingers. She paused imperceptibly when Seven tensed slightly. She let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding when she felt Seven shiver then relax again. Kathryn closed her eyes as she rubbed. She had wanted to do this for a long time she realized. She leaned forward and rested her forehead against Seven's back. It felt so good to be this close, so close that Seven's scent enveloped her with every inhalation.

"Seven?" she asked, her voice soft, "Will you come sleep with me tonight?" For a moment Kathryn was afraid Seven would not answer then she heard the soft reply.

"Yes, Kathryn."

Seven lay stretched on the bed. It was more comfortable than the couch, yet she could not relax. She was too aware of Kathryn's presence. Seven listened to the even breathing of the woman next to her and realized that the captain had fallen asleep. Carefully she rolled over and braced her elbow on the bed. She propped her head in her hand and watched Kathryn sleep. The desire to touch the tangled auburn hair startled her. She could not recall experiencing the need for physical contact before. Fascinated, Seven absorbed every detail. In the quiet night, she could hear the steady thrum of Kathryn's heartbeat. She leaned closer sniffing, inhaling Kathryn's scent. She leaned back when Kathryn shifted in her sleep turning, kicking the blanket off one leg. Seven's gaze wandered down the expanse of leg, again experiencing the desire to touch. She wondered if the skin was as soft as it looked. Curious she pulled her own leg from beneath the covers. She was wearing a gown Kathryn had given her earlier. She saw no purpose in changing from her biosuit into the flimsy garment just to sleep, but Kathryn had insisted. She lay her leg along Kathryn's and compared the two. Her leg was much paler and longer she noted. A scar around her knee, a reminder of a borg implant, drew her eyes and she slowly ran a finger across it. She couldn't detect a difference with her fingertip. She switched to her borg hand. The increased tactile touch of the borg enhancement allowed her to detect the scar tissue. The area along the edge of the scar was more sensitive than the scar itself or the rest of her skin. She returned to her examination of Kathryn. A small scar, tiny in comparison to Seven's dimpled the back of her thigh. Before she could stop herself, Seven reached out and traced the edges of the scar. A small noise drew her eyes to Kathryn's face. She saw Kathryn's eyelids flutter and realized the sleeping woman had entered an REM state and was dreaming. Seven wondered what it was like to dream and wondered what dreams filled Kathryn's nights. She sighed and rolled over. She was feeling tired. She had two and a half hours before her duty shift began. She got up and pulled on her biosuit. She would regenerate. Perhaps that would alleviate some of her exhaustion.

 

She stood by the view window of her quarters staring into the unbroken darkness of empty space. She shivered and felt the first waves of despair begin to wash over her.

"Kathryn."

At the sound of her name she drug her eyes away from the window for the first time, she realized, in years. Seven stood in the middle of the room watching, waiting. At the sight of the young blonde woman, she felt the fear and depression ease. In its place was another emotion. One she hadn't experienced in so long she almost didn't recognize it.

"Seven," she said unaware of the yearning in her voice, "I thought I was alone."

Seven crossed the room and enveloped Kathryn in her arms. "No. I am here Kathryn," she whispered in Kathryn's hair, "You are not alone."

Kathryn opened her eyes reluctantly. She tried to grasp the remnants of the dream but like morning fog, they drifted away. She glanced at the side of the bed. It was empty. The gown Seven had worn the night before was carefully folded and placed on the table at the side of the bed. Janeway sighed and got up. Time to start another day.


"Seven."

Seven jumped, startled at the sound of her name.

"Are you all right Seven?" Ensign Kim asked.

"I am fine," Seven responded "Why do you ask?"

"Because that's the third time I called your name. You seem distracted," Kim said concern in his voice.

Seven returned to the console. It was disturbing that her unease was detectable. Harry noted the disconcerted look that flitted over Seven's face.

"Do you want to talk about it?" he asked quietly.

Seven stared intently at the screen. Her mind working rapidly. She was confused by the emotions she had been experiencing and wanted to understand them. Ensign Kim had always tried to be her friend from the time she first came on Voyager. She turned to the Ensign.

"I wish to talk. Can we go somewhere less...public?" she asked.

If Harry was surprised to be taken up on his offer, he covered it well. "Sure," he said, "I have some holodeck time saved. Would that be ok?"

Seven nodded "Acceptable."

 

Harry keyed in a command to the holodeck, calling up a park program he enjoyed when he wanted to get away and think. It was quiet and very soothing. He thought it would be appropriate. Whatever was on Seven's mind was obviously bothering her a great deal. He then placed a privacy code on the doors and led Seven through the door.

Inside the two began to walk along a gravel path. They walked in silence for several minutes. Harry patiently waited for Seven to collect her thoughts. Her first words however, took him by surprise.

"Ensign Kim, when I first came on Voyager you were attracted to me were you not?" she asked bluntly.

Startled that the conversation would start with him, Harry stumbled a little. "Well, yes. I guess I was in a way," he said blushing and hoping Seven didn't notice his consternation.

Seven nodded at the confirmation. "Do you still feel that attraction?" she asked.

Harry walked in silence thinking about Seven's question. Finally, he answered. "When you first came on board I had a crush on you. You were beautiful, exotic, something - someone totally new. But as I got to know you those feeling abated. I can't say I'm not attracted to you but, now I see you more as a friend," Harry wondered if he had managed to totally mangled his explanation when Seven didn't respond. He began to get nervous as the silence grew. When Seven spoke again it was so softly he almost didn't hear her.

 

"I am afraid," she whispered.

Harry stopped in his tracks. Seven turned to face him but didn't meet his eyes.

"Afraid? Of what?" Harry asked. Seven gazed at the tops of the trees.

"Of my feelings for Kath...the Captain," she explained.

"Ah, I see," Harry said frowning slightly.

Seven took a deep breath and continued. "The Captain and I have never had an intimate relationship, however, lately..." Seven paused shifting uncomfortably. "Lately, I have been experiencing strong emotions towards her that I do not understand."

Harry cleared his throat. He wasn't entirely comfortable talking about his Captain but Seven obviously needed to talk to someone. So he squared his shoulders and pushed on

"What kind of emotions?" he asked.

Seven continued the walk down the path. "Last night I discovered that I enjoyed the sensation of her rubbing my shoulders. Then while I watched her sleep I...wanted to touch her. I did touch her," Seven turned to Harry "I do not understand these desires," she said her tone begging him to enlighten her.

Harry gestured to a bench. "Let's try something," he said.

Seven sat on the bench and Harry stepped behind her placing his hands on her shoulders and began to massage. Seven tensed at Harry's touch.

"Relax Seven. It's just an experiment," Harry reassured her. Seven inhaled deeply and commanded her muscles to untwine.

"How does that make you feel?" he asked after a few minutes.

"It is not unpleasant," Seven responded, "But it is not the same."

Harry nodded. "Alright now imagine that it is the captain rubbing your shoulders," he commanded.

Seven closed her eyes and replayed the events of the night before while Harry rubbed her shoulders. She imagined the feel of Kathryn's hands, Kathryn's scent, Kathryn's breath on her neck when she leaned her head against Seven's back. Harry felt Seven relax as a slight shiver ran through her body. Then she let out a soft moan. Harry leaned over to speak in Seven's ear.

"I'm not positive Seven, but I think the emotions you are experiencing are desire. Maybe you're falling in love with the Captain." Harry's hands dropped away as Seven sat up abruptly. She turned widened eyes on Harry.

"In love?" she questioned. Harry nodded

"Now the question is, does the captain feel the same?" he asked gently.

Seven looked away. "I do not know," she paused a moment. Her loyalty to Kathryn was unquestioning, however, the captain's behavior since the accident had her unsettled. She gave Harry a searching look, then told him of the teasing Kathryn had been doing since the accident. The verbal plays to get a response from Seven. When she finished Harry remained silent for a few minutes. He, along with everyone else on the ship, had thought that since Seven was a calming influence on the captain that Janeway was less volatile around the young woman. From what she had just told him, however, Seven was getting worst side of the captain. She was dealing with far more than any of the crew knew about. He worried the thought over in his head for a bit then looked closely at Seven. Janeway's behavior may be harder on Seven than on anyone else but the result of that were changes in Seven that, for now, seemed to be for the better.

"Well Seven my advice is to try and relax. Just let things happen and if anything happens that makes you uncomfortable then tell her. I know the captain and no matter how much she has changed, she wouldn't push you into anything you don't want do. Not in a personal matter anyway," he advised.

"Thank you Ensign Kim. I will consider your advice. Now I should return to astrometrics," she said. Harry followed her to the holodeck doors.

"No problem Seven. Anytime you need to talk just let me know."


Janeway stood outside the holodeck doors frowning. The computer had informed her that Seven was in holodeck two. The controls, however, listed Harry Kim as the retainer of the room and there was a security seal on the door. Janeway quickly keyed an override command into the computer and opened the doors. Her irritation grew exponentially as she stepped into the romantic setting of the park. She strode down the path wondering where Seven could be. Janeway froze as she rounded the corner and saw Seven sitting on a bench. Her eyes were closed and her head tilted slightly. Even from where she stood, Janeway could hear the moan Seven gave with his hands upon her. She turned on her heel and left the holodeck.


Seven paused as she walked into the Captain's quarters. She was not sure what alerted her, but she knew something was wrong. Kathryn was lying on the lounger reading. Seven crossed the room.

"Good evening Kathryn," she said. Seven frowned as Kathryn ignored her greeting. "How was your day," she tried again pulling on the doctor's lessons in small talk. Again no answer. Seven walked to the replicator deciding to ignore Kathryn. She replicated a salad and tea and sat at the table eating silently.

"Did you and Harry have a nice walk?" Kathryn asked unexpectantly, sarcasm dripping from the words.

Seven's head shot up. How did Kathryn know she and Harry Kim had taken a walk this morning, she wondered. "It was informative," she replied cautiously.

"I'll just bet," Kathryn snapped.

Seven stood up and crossed the room. She had been patient. She had been understanding. She had been supportive. Now she was tired of Kathryn's behavior.

"What do you mean," Seven demanded towering over Kathryn. Kathryn studiously studied the book she held. Seven grabbed the book and flung it across the room. Kathryn sprang to her feet.

"How dare you," she exclaimed rounding on Seven. "Get out. Get out now," she yelled.

Seven stood immobile. "I will not comply," she replied with full borg intonation. Kathryn pulled herself to her full height and stepped up to Seven.

"I see." Janeway snarled. "You spend the day carousing with Harry Kim on the holodeck then expect to come home to me. I'm sorry but it won't happen," her voice rose as she stood nearly nose to nose with Seven. Seven's face became impassive.

"You are jealous," she stated calmly. Inside she was shaking. Kathryn's violent eruptions disturbed her. The fact that she was the focus of that anger bothered her more. She would not, however, back down.

"If you wish to know what occurred, then you should ask me rather than make wild accusations."

Kathryn spun away. "I don't have to ask. I saw," she said pointedly.

Seven arched an eyebrow. "What exactly did you see?" she asked.

Kathryn stood with her back to Seven. "I saw you and Harry," she stopped trying to get the quiver in her voice under control. "I heard you moan," she said finally, quietly. Seven stepped behind the smaller woman and placed her hands on Kathryn's shoulders.

"Did you see Ensign Kim do this?" she asked rubbing Kathryn slowly. Kathryn nodded mutely. Seven continued to kneed Kathryn's shoulders. She inhaled filling her senses with the woman. Then she leaned forward and whispered in Kathryn's ear. "Did he do this?" she asked. Again Kathryn nodded. "What about this?" Seven asked leaning down and slowly kissing Kathryn's neck. Kathryn shook her head violently and tried to pull away.

"I don't want to know Seven," she said hoarsely.

Seven pulled Kathryn back to her and chuckled. "He did not kiss me Kathryn nor did he do this," she said wrapping her arms around the smaller woman. "We were only talking...about you."

Kathryn turned in Seven's arms and raised her eyes disbelieving. "About me?" she questioned looking into Seven's eyes. Seven nodded. "I don't understand," Kathryn said finally.

"I needed advice," Seven stated, "Ensign Kim seemed the appropriate person to ask."

Janeway frowned. "Advice? About what?" Seven hesitated a moment. Apprehension was causing her stomach to flutter uncomfortably. She pushed the emotion aside and leaned forward.

"About this," she said and slowly touched her lips to Kathryn's. Kathryn stood frozen for a nanosecond before wrapping her arms around Seven and began kissing back enthusiastically. Instantaneous sensory overload nearly sent Seven to the floor as her knees buckled.

 

As if Seven's kiss had smashed the walls of a dam, all of Kathryn's feelings for the woman rushed out. Eagerly she devoured the full, soft lips. She pressed her body against Seven, unable to get close enough. Kathryn locked her arms as she felt Seven's knees give way. Carefully she turned and lowered Seven to the lounger without loosing contact. Finally the need for air broke the kiss and Kathryn pushed up a little to look at Seven. Heavy lidded blue eyes looked back.

"Kathryn," Seven called hoarsely. The sound of her name, fraught with need and possibilities, caused Kathryn's heart to skip a beat. With a moan she bent back down to capture Seven's mouth. She felt as if she were flying. Seven grunted as she hit the floor. Kathryn skidded across Seven's torso and came to a sudden stop as her head impacted the side table. Seven caught her breath and rolled over. She crawled over to where Kathryn sat holding her forehead.

"Kathryn," Seven said worried, "You are damaged."

Kathryn jerked upright startled at the sound of Seven's voice so close. Seven grunted again and fell on her rump as Kathryn's elbow slammed into her right eye. The two women sat for a moment. One holding her head, the other her eye. Suddenly Kathryn burst out laughing. Seven gave Kathryn an one-eyed glare.

"I do not see the humor in the situation," she said. At Seven's flat tone Kathryn started laughing harder.

"Oh my," she said between gasps. She leaned over and pulled Seven's hand away from her eye. "Oh dear," she said at the sight of the bruise forming around Seven's eye. "We should call the doctor," she said.

"Unnecessary," Seven stated, "My nanoprobes will repair the damage." Seven pushed to her feet and helped Kathryn up.

"Well," Kathryn said. "That seemed to effectively kill the mood."

"Indeed," Seven said dryly sending Kathryn off into more peals of laughter. She linked her arm with Seven.

"Why don't we just try and get some rest," she said tugging Seven after her into the bedroom.


Harry Kim walked into astrometrics and stopped dead.

"Seven," he asked, "What happened?"

Seven looked up from her console. "You are referring to the discoloring of my eye," she stated. Harry nodded. Seven blushed and looked away.

"Kathryn and I were attempting to…become intimate," she said studying the console intently. Harry smothered a laugh and scratched the back of his head.

"I think," he said carefully, "That you were doing something wrong."

"Indeed," Seven replied.

Harry tried. He tried really hard but Seven's tone and the indignant look on her face was too much for him. He burst out laughing.

B'Elanna Torres paused in the doorway of the Astrometrics lab. Harry Kim was laughing so hard tears were running down his face. Seven had her back to the door but from her stiff stance, B'Elanna could tell that she was not amused. The door slid shut behind the engineer and Seven turned at the sound. B'Elanna's eyes shot up at the black eye Seven was sporting.

"Kahless, Seven. Did the captain belt you again?" she asked. At B'Elanna's question Harry began laughing even harder. Seven glared at the red-faced ensign.


"Good morning, Captain," Chakotay called cheerfully as he walked into the ready room.

Janeway jumped in surprise knocking her PADD to the floor. She dove for the PADD but was too late, Chakotay had bent and picked it up. His tattoo danced in surprise as he glanced down and saw the contents. He looked up at the captain. Janeway was blushing furiously and looking everywhere but at the commander.

"Research?" he asked in an amused voice.

She took the PADD from him and turned it off.

"Captain," Chakotay said in alarm as he caught sight of the bruised egg-shaped knot on her forehead.

Janeway fingered it carefully then gestured to the PADD. "Consider it self-preservation," she said finally with an embarrassed laugh. "I…the mechanics aren't quite what I'm used to."

Chakotay laughed and handed her the morning reports. "Good luck, Captain," he called cheerfully over his shoulder as he exited the ready room.

Seven hurried through the corridors. After a couple of speculative looks and knowing grins from passing crewmen, she slowed her pace. Apparently, Lt. Torres had been efficient in disseminating the information concerning her black eye and the cause of it. They had overslept this morning and Seven had been forced to regenerate after completing her duties. She found she was eager to return to the captain's quarters. Unconsciously she hurried her pace again. Kathryn looked up as Seven came through the door. Her eyes lit up as she gazed at the tall blonde.

"Seven, are you hungry?" she asked.

Seven shook her head. "I have just completed regenerating. I do not require nutritional supplements at this time," she said crossing the room to Kathryn in only a few long strides.

"Good," Kathryn breathed as she tilted her head up to look at Seven.

Seven looked down and lost herself in the blue-gray eyes. They reached for each other at the same time. Their lips came together with crushing intensity. The universe dissolved away as they lost themselves in each other.

"Oh my," Kathryn said huskily when they finally broke apart.

She looked at Seven from under heavy lidded eyes. The look of raw desire on Seven's face sent tremors through her body. Kathryn reached up and pulled Seven to her again. Locked in the embrace she slowly backed to the bedroom door. They reached the bed sooner than she expected and her knees buckled as she fell back on it. Seven followed stretching her body over Kathryn's. Kathryn reached up and fumbled trying to find the release to Seven's biosuit. Seven lifted up to help but Kathryn grabbed her and pulled her back.

"No," she commanded, then softer, "I want to do this."

Seven nodded in understanding and held still, submitting to Kathryn's explorations. A smile of triumph lit Kathryn’s face as the biosuit came loose. Seven started to move but froze again as Kathryn silently shook her head. Slowly she peeled the suit from Seven's shoulders kissing each bit of exposed skin as it was revealed.

Seven closed her eyes and lay back on the bed shivering as the sensation of Kathryn's lips and tongue pervaded her senses. A strangled moan started somewhere deep in her throat. She wasn't sure she would survive this experience. The emotions bombarding her were more intense than any she had ever felt. Her eyes flew open as felt Kathryn's leg slide between her thighs.

Kathryn threw her head back and moaned as she felt Seven's heat on her leg. She was sure she could feel dampness on her leg. Her hands danced across Seven's back as she explored the long curves. She moaned again as she felt Seven press down against her leg.

"Kathryn," Seven hoarsely whispered.

"Captain to the bridge," Ensign Kim's voice came across the ships com.

Seven's eyes opened in surprise as a string of expletives filled the room. Curious, she thought, I did not know Kathryn knew the different profanities of so many languages. She filled the knowledge away for future reference as she began to pull her biosuit back on and follow Kathryn to the bridge.