Reverse Psychology

 

The Velocity disc spun away from Kathryn Janeway’s phaser beam on an erratic track.  Bouncing off the walls and picking up speed as it went, the disc travelled swiftly towards her opponent.

 

Seven seemed surprised by the move, most probably because it was clear she had not been concentrating at the time.  The disc caught her squarely in the chest, and although it was a holographic projection and unable to do her any actual harm, she was still bowled over by the virtual shock of it.

 

“Are you all right, Seven?” Janeway cried anxiously, drowning out the crisp tones of the computer announcing that Janeway had won her twentieth consecutive match.

 

“I am undamaged Captain,” replied Seven, who eagerly grasped the Kathryn’s outstretched hand and pulled herself up.

 

Janeway eyed her young Astrometrics officer narrowly.  She’d noticed this kind of thing happening more and more just recently – the typically calm and focused young woman being caught off guard, in staff meetings, at social events and lately during Velocity matches.

 

That morning Chakotay had decided to bring the matter up with her, in his typically… subtle… manner.  She had informed him rather crisply that she was perfectly aware of Seven’s recent behaviour and of the reasons behind it.

 

“Seven, we need to talk,” Kathryn announced suddenly, surprising Seven for what was evidently the second time that day.

 

“Indeed, Captain.  What do you wish to discuss?”

 

“Us, Seven.  Our…situation.”

 

“I see.  Could you be more specific?”

 

Janeway sighed and ran her fingers through her hair.  This was not going to be an easy discussion but it was definitely necessary.

 

“How do you feel about me Seven?”

 

The Borg quirked an eyebrow.  “Truthfully?”

 

“Of course.  Why would you think otherwise?”

 

“I have noticed that while humans claim to appreciate honesty, they are often disturbed when they get it.”

 

“Well, I promise I won’t be disturbed.”  Janeway smiled a little.  “Now answer my question.”

 

“Very well.  I believe the correct designation for the emotion I feel for you is…love.”

 

Oh God, Janeway’s mind piped up as she visibly paled.  Why did I make that promise?

 

“However I came to the conclusion long ago that you are a completely unsuitable partner for me.  While I may not be able to control my…feelings…for you, I can assure you that I have no desire to change the parameters of our current relationship.”

 

Uh…huh, Janeway thought. 

 

“Are you all right, Captain?”

 

“Em, I’m fine Seven.  I just…I’m a little surprised that you feel so strongly that we’re incompatible.”

 

Why are you saying this Kathryn?  She’s provided you with the easiest out imaginable.  Go with it for God’s sake!

 

“I simply formed a judgement based on available data.  You are a woman, for a start.”

 

“That doesn’t mean we’re incompatible.  What century is this after all?”

 

Really Kathryn, what are you saying?

 

“I had considered that.  There are other objections however.  Would you like me to list them?”

 

Janeway raised her right eyebrow and leaned against the holodeck wall.

 

“Feel free.”  Kathryn…Stop talking now…

 

“There is the fact of our respective positions on this ship.  You are the captain and I am a subordiante.  Any relationship between us would violate Starfleet protocol.”

 

“Seven, the rulebook was not exactly written for our situation.  There’s no rule that says a Captain can’t be involved with a crewmember.  Besides, you’re not even a member of Starfleet.”

 

Kathryn you will shut your mouth right now!  I’m serious, just let it go!

 

“Very well, I concede that point.  However, perhaps the rest of the crew would be resentful of me if we were in a romantic relationship.  They would suspect favouritism, perhaps – and that may undermine your authority.”

 

“Really Seven, I think I’ve built up enough trust over the last six years that I can have a relationship with whomever I choose.  They crew know me well enough to know I would never let personal feelings interfere with my duty to them.”

 

Kathryn you are digging a hole for yourself here…

 

Seven raised an eyebrow a little.

 

“I believe you are correct Captain.  However there is one more objection which I do not believe you can answer.”

 

“Oh really?” Janeway said with a sort of grin.  “And what would that be?”

 

“Simple Captain,” said Seven and her voice even seemed to falter a little.  “You do not love me.”

 

The air seemed to leave Kathryn’s lungs and she was silent, staring at Seven as if she’d never seen her before.  A strange unfamiliar emotion rushed to fill her chest, causing her heart to ache as if this feeling were something tangible and real that could expand and contract in time with her pulse.

 

Just think before you say anything Kathryn.  Think about how much this could hurt you.  Think about how much this could hurt her.  Just…think for God’s sake!

 

“I do love you, Seven,” she whispered, completely ignoring the protests of her mind and and instead – for once – listening to the protests of her heart.

 

Seven smiled.  It was a beautiful smile, perfect like an angel’s.

 

“I am gratified to hear that…Kathryn.  I believe you have convinced me that we are suitable partners after all.”

 

She walked over to where Kathryn was standing and took her face in her hands.

 

“I am going to kiss you now…” she whispered against Kathryn’s slightly parted lips.

 

And as she did so – with far more skill than one would have expected – Kathryn Janeway only spared a moment to wonder what the hell she had just talked herself into.

 

But pretty soon she wasn’t thinking rationally about anything at all.

 

 

The End