Chaotic Cruise
G. L. Dartt
In the Alpha Quadrant, Captain Kathryn Janeway leaned over the waste receptacle and heaved up the breakfast she had enjoyed that morning in the Beta Quadrant. After determining there was nothing left to expel, she staggered over to grab onto the sink counter, pressing her forehead against the smooth glass of the mirror.
“They have to find a way around this,” she muttered out loud. After a few moments, she revived enough to activate the water dispenser, and weakly scooped up some cool liquid, splashing it on her face. Feeling marginally better, she looked up at her reflection and recoiled. Dark shadows marred the skin beneath her eyes and her complexion was sallow, with a slight greenish tinge. It was better when she had her eyes closed, she decided and once more bent her head against the mirror.
A soft knock on the door made her whimper piteously. Only one person would dare enter her ready room without formal admittance at the best of times, let alone when she was feeling like this. “Kathryn? Are you all right?”
“No.”
Immediately, the door to the head hissed open and Seven’s liquid form slipped into the small room. Tall and imposing, her long blonde hair was pulled back in a severe bun, while her narrow, attractive features were highlighted by the silver glint of Borg implants. Long fingers, capped with metal and circuitry, were cool as they stroked the back of Janeway’s neck.
“Breathe slowly,” she instructed.
Despite her nausea, Janeway immediately felt better, just from the power of Seven’s touch. “Can I assume we arrived in one piece?”
“Yes. Starfleet has been contacted. We are on course to Earth at warp five. We will arrive at the Utopia Planetia shipyards in three days, barring any unforeseen circumstances.”
Janeway continued to lean on the sink as Seven expanded her light massage down her spine, loosening the knots she found there. “God, I don’t know why I always expect this to become better with experience,” she muttered fretfully. “Instead, it feels like it’s becoming worse every time we make a transwarp jump, even with the sedation.”
“There may be a cumulative effect,” Seven said. “The more transitions your body experiences, the worse it becomes.”
“Wonderful. At this rate, I’ll have to retire in a year.”
Seven chose not to respond to that. Instead, she gently urged Janeway out of the small ensuite that reeked of vomit and into the fresher air of her ready room. Once she had the captain settled on the sofa with a replicated glass of flat ginger ale, she disappeared back into the small powder room, undoubtedly to remove all traces of the captain’s illness. The ship’s maintenance staff was perfectly capable of taking care of it, of course, but there was always the captain’s image to maintain. Janeway shook her head ruefully and sipped her ginger ale.
When Seven returned, she brought along some mouth fresheners and another glass of electric blue liquid. Janeway set aside the ginger ale and accepted the fruit juice, knowing she had to replenish her fluids and electrolytes. As she drank, Seven sat down on the sofa beside her and watched silently with a concerned expression in her ice-blue eyes.
Janeway took her time with her juice, making sure she kept it down. When she finished, she took both mouth fresheners, allowing them to dissolve on her tongue as she eased back against the cushions, feeling the ache in her temples gradually ease. Even with her eyes closed, she remained aware of Seven’s scrutiny.
“What are you thinking?” she asked finally.
“How much I am required to hold you at this moment,” came the prompt and gratifying response.
Janeway dredged up a smile and leaned over, caught up by the strong, slender arms and drawn into a warm embrace. Head resting on the voluptuous expanse of Seven’s chest, Janeway surrendered completely to this moment of weakness, cosseted by her spouse and surrounded by her love, basking in the strength lent to her without hesitation. Snuggling close, she listened to Seven’s heartbeat, its steady rhythm providing a comfort that was beyond description. As Seven’s lips brushed lightly over her temple, the sheer tenderness of it made it easy to ignore any remaining effects of the jump.
“Are you feeling better, Kathryn?” Seven asked after several quiet moments had passed.
“Much, my love. Thank you. I needed this.”
“I am gratified to provide it.”
Janeway exhaled slowly. “I think I want to go lie on the beach for about a week. Once the Starfleet briefings are over, why don’t we take a trip to Risa?”
“I have never been to Risa. I understand it is a very popular leave destination for Starfleet officers.”
“It
is, but I think we can find
some quiet corner for ourselves. Or we can always look for a tropical
island on
Earth to spend some time together. All I know is that I miss being with
you.”
"I
want to be with you, as well."
Janeway gave her a final squeeze, hugging her tightly, and then drew away. ”But for now, I need to return to my duties.”
“Of course, Captain.”
They stood up, but as Seven was about to leave, Janeway seized her hand and pulled her to her. “Before you go...” She kissed her, confident that the mouth fresheners were working, but glad she had taken two. Once they finished, she looked up entreatingly into Seven’s face. “I love you so much, Annika. Don’t ever doubt that.”
“I do not, Kathryn.” Seven kissed her again, one incredibly soft and caring kiss, lingering over her lips. “I love you with all I am.”
“Have a good day, darling. I’ll see you...” Janeway faltered. “Well, you know I’ll see you when I see you. It’s always insane after a mission.”
“Yes, Kathryn. Know that I shall be thinking of you until then.”
Feeling considerably better than she had a half hour earlier, Janeway followed Seven down the ramp, her palm resting on the small of her back. On the lower level, Seven headed for the door while Janeway moved over to her desk where she brought up the ship reports. Everything appeared to be functioning at acceptable levels, including the hasty repairs applied to damage done during the Elthanian uprising in the Confederacy, though the ship could still expect a lengthy stay at the Utopia Planetia dockyards. Janeway certainly hoped that particular political mess would be settled before she ever needed to return to that area of space.
A soft chirp interrupted her thoughts, indicating incoming messages and she realized that ship’s communication system was already updating the databanks from Starfleet Command after a year away from the Federation. Settling into her chair, she started pouring over everything that had happened while she was away, skimming through the mass of information in search of relevant items like how her previous vessel was doing and particularly on the current status of the Orion Syndicate.
Time passed quickly and before she knew it, it was almost into the gamma shift. She groaned and leaned back in her chair, rubbing her eyes tiredly. She could expect another two days of this, with at least another day of briefings with Starfleet Headquarters before she could lay down her command for a while. She was a little dismayed to discover how much she was looking forward to it, which could be indicative of the much larger problem that remained, simmering just below the surface. It was definitely something that would require further contemplation, particularly once she was back on Earth.
Shaking out her shoulders, she logged off and rose from her seat. Scooping up the silver thermos and tucking it beneath her arm, she left her ready room. Out on the bridge, the shift crew was just changing over and she found herself in a crowd waiting for the turbolift. She could have used her own private access direct to her quarters from the ready room, of course, but she wanted the opportunity to see people that she didn’t always get to work with on a steady basis and to gage the mood of the ship. From the quantity of chatter and laughter, it felt very upbeat, the crew obviously excited about returning home and the substantial leave awaiting them.
On deck three, Janeway headed for her quarters at the end of the corridor, her step faltering briefly as she passed the first officer’s quarters. She’d have to break in another one, she thought with a touch of resentment as she continued on. And just when Keira appeared to be shaping up into a perfectly acceptable executive officer.
Inside the captain’s quarters, the illumination was low, the warp distorted view of familiar Alpha Quadrant stars through the viewport granting a sort of luminescent quality. She paused by the kitchenette counter, smiling gently when she saw a stasis-held bowl of soup awaiting her, the thin, chicken-flavored broth, egg noodles and tiny-diced vegetables clearly intended to be gentle on her abused digestive system. Deactivating the field released a delicious aroma into the air, sparking a hunger she hadn’t felt until then. Rather than pass it by, as she initially intended, she slipped onto the stool and picked up the chunk of warm, buttered bread that lay beside the bowl. Midway through her meal, she started abruptly as strong arms encircled her waist from behind and warm curves pressed against her back. Soup sloshed from her spoon onto the counter.
She used her napkin to wipe up the drops. “I didn’t even hear you come in.”
“I did not intend to startle you, Kathryn,” Seven said quietly as she nuzzled Janeway’s neck.
“No harm done.” Janeway leaned back into the embrace as she scooped up some more noodles. “Were you asleep?”
“I was in bed, but not asleep. I heard you enter our quarters but when you did not join me, I realized you must be eating.”
“Isn’t that why you left a meal out for me?”
“It was merely a precaution. I had rather hoped that you would eat earlier and not require any dinner at this late hour.”
Janeway smiled. “You know me better than that.”
“I do, hence the soup.”
“Touché.”
Seven didn’t respond to that, other than squeezing her lightly in admonishment. Janeway chuckled and ate the last bite of bread, accompanied by the final spoonful of soup. Dabbing her lips with the napkin, she pushed the now emptied dishes away and turned to face Seven. Her heart rate accelerated as she took in the vision of her spouse, the long blonde hair flowing freely over her shoulders and around her beloved features, her lush body covered by only the flimsiest of silken silver robe. Even after all this time, she thought wistfully, Seven still took her breath away. Reaching out for her, she felt desire make her stomach contract in anticipation, and warmth flood the juncture between her legs.
“Mmm, this is definitely worth coming home for,” she murmured once Seven had finished kissing her, a long, slow, thoroughly loving kiss. Her hands loosened the tie at Seven’s stomach, allowing the robe to fall open and grant her access to the warm skin beneath.
“Ah
yes, food and now sex. Your day
is complete,” Seven said with dry humor.
“Isn’t
yours?”
Seven
kissed her again, deeper,
tongue touching Janeway’s with a sweet passion. ”Most assuredly,
Kathryn, now
that I am in your arms."Janeway
made a happy sound and
hugged her closer, loving how Seven felt against her, even through the
layers
of uniform. Though she ached to remove those obstructing layers as
quickly as
possible, a part of her also savored the moment of being here with
Seven,
holding her as they kissed until she was breathless.
And
until she could decide exactly
the best way to proceed for the maximum possible outcome, maintaining
the
status quo was just fine with her.
Seven quivered as Janeway’s fingertips played a teasing tempo down her spine and trailed lovingly over her buttocks beneath her robe. She wanted to seize Janeway and carry her off to the bedroom, yet even as passion swept through her, a stronger urge demanded that she cherish this moment with her spouse. It was wonderfully intoxicating to stand here at the kitchenette counter and be caressed so wantonly by the captain, who had not even unfastened her uniform tunic. The black material was rough against the tender skin of Seven’s nipples, and they hardened pleasantly as they pressed against Janeway’s chest. Her mouth was so warm, tasting of chicken soup and a flavor so uniquely Kathryn that Seven thought she would never get enough of it, kissing her hungrily for long minutes.
Her breath caught as she felt Janeway’s hand slide gently between her thighs, touching her with tender regard. “Oh, my, you have been waiting, haven’t you?” Janeway’s fingers moved lavishly in the wetness, rubbing over Seven’s ridge in a way that sent lovely chills up and down her spine. “Mmm, you feel so ready for me, darling.”
“I told you I could not sleep,” Seven whispered, hips undulating slightly against the swirling fingertips, wanting more and appreciating the knowledge she would get it. “I attempted to finalize certain details of my paper, but all I could think of was making love to you in our home on Earth.”
She was referring to the house they shared in San Francisco that was vacant now that Icheb had transferred to Vulcan for his final year in the Academy and Chakotay had taken command of the newly commissioned Ahwwahnee. Though she adored Indiana, Seven also loved the little bungalow on R. Garrett Avenue overlooking the harbor and Starfleet Command. It was a haven for the couple while on Earth, and she was glad to have it waiting for her once more, filled with the souvenirs and the accumulations of their life together.
Janeway nibbled lightly on her earlobe. “With any luck, Phoebe will have all our furniture moved back in by the time we arrive on Earth, especially that big bed of ours. Until then, I suppose we’ll just have to make do with the one here.”
Seven, who suddenly found it very difficult to concentrate on anything Janeway was saying while doing such delightful things to her, cupped the beloved features in her palms and kissed her hard, forcing Kathryn to be quiet except for the happy hum at the back of her throat. The sensation radiating from between Seven’s legs spread rapidly throughout her entire body and she shivered again, a dangerous weakness buckling her knees. Releasing her grip on Janeway, she reached out for the edge of the counter, holding on tightly as the caresses grew firmer and more intense. Gasping, she felt the penetration of a questing index finger that thrust the entire length into her, and then quivered as Janeway’s thumb rubbing decisively over her ridge, Janeway muttered something indecipherable and pressed deeper, her fingertip brushing ever so lightly over the sensitive spot inside. The effect was immediate and totally irresistible.
Somehow, the captain was able to support the full weight of Seven’s body as she shuddered helplessly against her, lost in her climax. Her entire concentration was centered on her surrender to the all too brief time of perfect pleasure. Afterward, her forehead fell forward onto Janeway’s shoulder, her breath labored as she descended from that exquisite plateau. Distantly, she felt Janeway carefully withdraw, though she continued to cup her juncture warmly in her palm, almost as if she was holding up Seven’s entire being with it.
“Thank you, Kathryn,” Seven managed, once she had recovered somewhat.
“Oh, you’re most welcome, my love.”
Lifting her head, Seven looked down into the warm eyes, far more blue than gray at the moment, amazed as always as how easily this small Human woman could overwhelm her. There was complete love in her gaze, and more than a hint of desire. Obviously, her attention to Seven has exacerbated her own need for satisfaction. Bending down, Seven’s mouth brushed lightly over Janeway’s, flicking out the tip of her tongue to trace a tender line over her bottom lip, resisting any attempt by Kathryn to deepen the kiss.
Janeway groaned. “God, darling, don’t tease me.”
Seven smiled and kissed her again, still playing. “I shall tease you all night long,” she promised her quietly. “And you will enjoy it.”
“Oh, I know I’ll enjoy it.” Janeway’s voice was laced with ironic humor. “The question is, will I survive it?”
“You always have before.”
Seven drew her from the chair, holding Janeway in a strong embrace as she kissed her again, more passionate now, conscious of that fine line between play and torment. Between loving caresses, she guided her into the bedroom, undressing her efficiently at the same time, discarding the tunic and sweater and pants along the way. By the time Janeway was sprawled over the midnight blue sheets, she was naked and needful, reaching out for Seven with demanding insistence.
“If you don’t hurry this up, I’ll have to report for duty before you’re able to finish.”
Seven dismissed the complaint; aware it wasn’t serious though she acknowledged that it wasn’t the wisest course of action to keep the ship’s captain awake for the duration of the entire night. After removing her robe, she stretched out beside Janeway, pulling her into her arms and delighting in the sensation of warm skin against her own. No longer playing, her hands moved in practiced patterns over the curves and planes of the familiar form, knowing just where and when to touch to achieve the maximum result. Before long, Janeway was groaning and gasping, responding to the skilled touch with the same helpless pleasure Seven had experienced earlier. When she climaxed, it was with such a throaty and enthusiastic outcry that Seven was concerned the other tenant on deck three heard it, regardless of the ship’s unquestionable soundproofing in construction.
“Hmm, you’re right, darling,” Janeway muttered sleepily in the warm afterglow, snuggled tight against Seven’s body. “This was the perfect end to the day. Let’s do it again tomorrow.”
“As long as you do not begin your day in the same manner,” Seven said dryly.
“God, no, that wouldn’t be good.” There was a pause and Janeway rubbed her cheek against Seven’s breastbone. “Do you really think the effects of transwarp jumping are cumulative?”
Seven could hear the concern in Janeway’s tone and she hugged her comfortingly, though she could offer little in the way of scientific reassurance. “There has not been enough study regarding the matter, Kathryn. I merely ventured a theory without any substantial proof one way or another. I will confer with Leah Brahms while on Earth. It may be something that no one has pursued before now.” She nuzzled her temple. “Would it bother you so much to return to the Alpha Quadrant full time, Kathryn?”
“I guess not, but I’d hate to have to give up Millennium on the basis of that rather than because it was time for me to walk away on my own terms.”
“I understand.” Seven was fully convinced that she did. For Janeway to do anything on less than her own terms would be completely unacceptable.
Drawing the fingers of her left hand lightly up Janeway’s arm, the metal Borg caps over the tips easily detected the level of temperature and texture of skin, calculating each pore and hair follicle, measuring the density of flesh and bone beneath. Yet for all its sensitivity, it was not the same as when Seven touched Janeway with her other, fully flesh-and-blood hand. She wasn’t sure if she should appreciate that she could experience both, or sorrow because her left hand simply could not touch Janeway’s skin rather than assimilate its existence.
“Are you looking forward to see Mom and Phoebe?”
There was a faint wistfulness underlying the tone and Seven kissed the top of Janeway’s head, inhaling the warm fragrance of auburn hair. “Very much so,” she said quietly. There was a time when she would have attempted to explain how very much…indeed, how extremely necessary it was to see Gretchen and Phoebe again and bask in their presence. But there was a part of her that now knew such an explanation would hurt Janeway in some way, be it ever so subtle, so she did not try to elaborate. Instead, she added, “I also miss Jake. Shall we take him with us to San Francisco?”
“That’s a good idea. I think he gets lost in the shuffle with all the other dogs, particularly with Rufus. He doesn’t always get the attention he requires.” Janeway shifted a little, seeking a more comfortable position in preparation of sleep. “I’m thinking about bringing him with us on our next mission. What do you think?”
Seven considered it. “This is a much larger vessel and there are more people available to help care for him should we find ourselves limited in time. Certainly having a pet will make you a more approachable captain.”
Janeway nudged her. “I don’t want a professional assessment, darling. What do you feel about it? Would you like to have him along?”
“I believe I would,” Seven admitted. “I know that I do occasionally wish he were here in our quarters after completing a double shift. His presence was oddly comforting. And I believe you would benefit from the walks after dinner that you once enjoyed on Voyager.”
“Then it’s settled, he’ll be shipping out with us next mission.”
“Very well, Kathryn.”
“Annika?”
“Yes?”
“You know I adore you.”
“Of course.” Seven put her fingertip beneath Janeway’s chin, lifting her face up to her so that she could kiss her as lovingly as possible. “I love you as well. Good night, Kathryn.”
“Good night, my darling.”
Morning arrived far too quickly for both women, and they were reluctant to leave the warm nest of bedcovers and each other. The computer had to insist three more times that duty awaited and breakfast was consumed on the fly. Seven barely had enough time to prepare the captain’s thermos before Janeway was striding briskly for the door. Once she had left, Seven took a few more moments to tidy up their quarters, picking up the discarded clothing from the night before, as well as the dishes scattered over the counter.
Arriving at her lab ten minutes later, she found her staff indulging in a pastime B’Elanna had once designated as ‘goofing off’. Though their duties were light now that they had returned to the Alpha Quadrant and most of their projects had been wrapped up, Seven was aware such non-productive activity could prove damaging to their morale and efficiency in the long term. There were still two days remaining before they made port and that was too long to allow such sloth to continue. Immediately, she set her team to work researching the effects of long-term transwarp jumps on individuals originating on Earth, ignoring the grumbling that followed her wake. She believed there was little hope of making any significant discoveries in any of the last few duty shifts, but at least she would be laying down a foundation that would assist her in the future.
While they were occupied, she went into her office and initiated a subspace to message to Dr. Leah Brahms at the Theoretical Propulsion Group. They had a facility on Mars where Seven had worked for a year and a half, so she was familiar with Leah’s team and their procedures. There were very few people in the universe that she would trust with a problem that could have a long-term effect on her spouse. Leah was one of them.
The ‘rocket scientist’, as B’Elanna liked to call her, was obviously glad to see Seven, her hazel eyes lightening perceptibly, even over a subspace transmission. “So, Dr. Hansen, have you had your fill of gallivanting around the galaxy yet? Can I expect you back for some real work?”
Seven smiled faintly, recognizing the humor. “Not as yet, Leah, though the problem I wish to pose to you may impact on that.” Quickly she explained that there might be some cumulative effects from the transwarp drive along with some the theories she had formulated. Leah was looking thoughtful by the time Seven had finished.
“It’s possible, but so far none of the current research suggests such long term effects are common. Of course, only Millennium has undergone so many jumps. If there was any sort of developing condition, then certainly it would show up first with your crew.”
“That is my concern, Leah. I do not wish my captain or my fellow crewmembers to perform as experimental subjects in this matter.”
“I don’t think Starfleet has that in mind, Annika.”
“Nonetheless, I believe more extensive research is required.”
Leah frowned but eventually nodded. “I’ll set up a team on it. If there is some kind of cumulative effect, we’ll find it.”
Leah was nothing if not confidant, nor was it misplaced confidence. Her TPG had the best minds from around the Federation and there was little that stymied them for long. Seven suspected that they were superior to even the ‘Think Tank’ she had encountered in the Delta Quadrant, and certainly more benevolent than the group Voyager faced.
Feeling a great deal better about things, Seven signed off and turned her attention to the preliminary data awaiting her. It would be two days before they reached Earth and she intended to have as much completed as possible before then.
Ro balanced easily on the balls of her feet and warily watched Kelly glide toward her. Both women were covered with sweat, breathing heavily in the confines of the workout room on deck fifteen. The ship’s first officer moved much better than she had initially after coming on board Millennium a year earlier, calmer and more controlled in her approach. It was good to know that Ro’s teaching had not gone to waste.
Ro wondered if Janeway’s teaching had fallen on equally fertile soil. She expected it had.
Swallowing back her smile, Ro abruptly moved forward. It was unexpected, and with a slight panic in her eyes, Kelly quickly backpedaled. Ro didn’t let up, keeping her on the defensive with a carefully calculated series of moves that finally left Kelly on her back on the mat, completely helpless.
“So much for everything you taught me,” Kelly said with a touch of sullenness as Ro helped her to her feet.
“Are you kidding? It took three more moves to get you down than it did last week. And three more then than the week before.” Ro mopped her brow with a handy towel. “It doesn’t come all at once, Kiera. It’s always one step at a time.”
“I suppose.” Cheered, Kelly sipped from her water bottle. “It’s just hard sometimes, especially when those steps are tedious.” She took another drink, suddenly looking glum again. “Like my next year will be.”
“Admittedly, administrative tours aren’t a thrill a minute but they are necessary,” Ro reminded gently. “Assuming you still plan to be a starship captain.”
“Dotting the ‘i’s’ and crossing the ‘t’s’.”
Ro lifted her chin. “It’s more than that. The next year is when you’ll learn how Starfleet really works, provided you keep your eyes and ears open. Knowing when an opportunity is there, and how to exploit it, is a key element in command.”
Kelly stared at her a moment, her green eyes suddenly assessing, so intent that Ro could almost see the deep processing going on behind them.
“Politics,” she said finally. Distastefully.
Ro laughed. “Oh, yeah. Knowing who’s using you and when. Once you get that down, then it makes carrying out the duties of command a whole lot…not easier exactly, but more practical.”
“Does anyone use Janeway?” Kelly said, skepticism strong in her tone.
“Oh, they’ve tried.” Ro thought back briefly to the operation involving Section 31 and the Orion Syndicate. It had almost cost the friendship she had been building with her captain and the memory made her wince. “Sometimes they even succeed for awhile, but the captain has a way of making it come out in her favor in the end.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.” Kelly dipped her head, suddenly looking awkward. “Uh, Laren, I just wanted you to know that I really appreciate all you’ve done for me this past year. Your friendship has meant a lot.”
Ro smiled faintly in acknowledgement at how difficult that was. Kelly wasn’t the most adept at conveying personal feelings. “It’s meant a lot to me, too,” she said quietly and thumped Kelly gently on the shoulder. “Good fortune to you in the future.”
“And to you.”
That was sufficient as farewell between them. With Millennium quickly approaching Earth, there would be little time in the next day or so for quiet moments. It was highly unlikely either of them would be able to make time for a more formal parting.
Kelly flashed a gamine grin and picked up her towel. Slinging it over her shoulder, she headed for the door as Ro watched her leave, idly unwrapping the protective covering over her wrists and hands. After gathering up the rest of her gear, she tossed it all into a small bag emblazoned with the Starfleet logo and made her own exit. Striding rapidly through the corridors toward the turbolift, she nodded briefly at those she knew. There was an air of expectation on the ship, a buzz of excitement and even a little relief at finally being back in the Federation again. The crew had been specifically picked for those who wanted to ‘boldly go where no one had gone before’ because of Millennium’s unique transition drive, but it was still nice to be home, no matter how adventurous one was.
Of course, for people like Ro, and her spouse, B’Elanna Torres, home was a more generalized concept, but for the next six months, they were going to have to give it some serious consideration. Another life was about to join their family, and where they chose to raise their daughter over the next few years was of the utmost priority. Both loved living on the ship, but they also had claim to a very nice groundside home on Mars that would be perfect for kids, even if working at Utopia Planetia or at Starfleet Command lacked the energy and excitement of starship duty.
Inside her quarters, Ro tossed her bag on the ensuite sink counter and stripped off her outfit, stepping beneath the stinging spray of the shower with a small groan of appreciation. Afterward, clean and flushed from her shower, she pulled on a robe and returned to the main living area where she retrieved a salad and some bread from the replicator. A quick check with the computer let her know B’Elanna was also on her way home after a long day in engineering so she set another place at the table.
“Hey, baby.” Shorter than Ro, with a more powerful build, B’Elanna breezed into their quarters like the unleashing of a hurricane. She glanced once at the table and made a beeline for the replicator where she started programming in a variety of dishes. Ro returned the greeting with a quick kiss on the cheek but didn’t say anything more as she began ferrying plates of food, some of which twitched anxiously on the dishes, to the table. As her pregnancy progressed, B’Elanna’s appetite had increased accordingly. Ro had ceased commenting on it by now, content simply to watch in respectful amazement as her spouse consumed the equivalent of both their body weights in a single sitting. The astonishing part was that B’Elanna was hardly any larger despite the prodigious input of food. Her stomach had rounded nicely, but that was mostly baby rather than extraneous fat. If Dr. Pulaski hadn’t reassured Ro that a gigantic appetite was perfectly normal for a gestating Klingon, she might have become concerned that B’Elanna wasn’t giving birth to a child as much as some kind of all consuming black hole.
At this point, Ro’s role in this pregnancy was to make sure B’Elanna got anything and everything she needed, even if she had to bypass protocols to make it happen.
“So how was your day?” B’Elanna began to tuck into her feast.
Ro smiled. She knew how this worked. By the time she finished recounting the events of her day, B’Elanna would be finished the first course and be ready with another leading question before starting in on the second. Ro snatched bites of salad between the flow of very one-sided conversation. “And I hear that the TPG is doing a study on the transition jump sickness in Terrans. Seven’s concerned that it may becoming a chronic effect.”
B’Elanna scrapped up the last of her current dish, set it aside and started in on the next, glancing up at Ro. Curiosity made her eyes even darker. “You mean there’s a certain point beyond their ability to tolerate it? That means…” She trailed off uncertainly.
Ro nodded soberly. “That means that crewmembers like Tom Paris won’t be able to ship out in future missions.”
“Or Janeway.”
“Or the captain,” Ro agreed. “That’s probably why Seven’s so concerned about it.”
“God, she’ll hate that. Janeway’s the sort that will want to walk away on her own terms, not because she’s told she has to.”
“I know.”
B’Elanna shook her head fretfully. “I still can’t figure it out. What makes Humans born and raised on Earth so different from the rest of them?”
Ro shrugged. “Maybe the water? Who knows? There’s always a slight genetic variation from planet to planet…even from planet to moon. Bajorans born and raised on Jerrado, our fifth moon, have a genetic predisposition to certain diseases that the planet-born are generally resistant to. It’s the same with the humans who spread out all over the Alpha Quadrant. Each planet and colony produces its own similar, but unique version. It’s probably one tiny little genetic marker on one insignificant gene that it’ll take decades to find.”
“It won’t take decades if Seven’s put her mind to fixing the problem,” B’Elanna noted sagely.
“You’re probably right,” Ro allowed. She slid another plate toward her spouse. “Some more Kohlanese stew?”
Later, in bed, the couple lay together in affectionate harmony, Ro on her back with B’Elanna leaning against her. Her hands resting lightly on the rounded belly of her spouse, Ro’s fingertips traced the tiny flutters of life beneath the smooth, warm skin.
“Lively tonight,” she murmured quietly.
“Yep.” B’Elanna moved restlessly. “You get to carry the next one.”
Ro lifted her brows but wisely didn’t comment on either the suggestion that they would have more offspring in the future or that she would be the one to undergo the pregnancy. Instead, she hugged B’Elanna close, nuzzling her cheek lightly.
“Anything I can do for you tonight?”
B’Elanna snuggled closer. “Nope, just be here.”
“I’m not going anywhere. Ever.”
B’Elanna made a happy sound, smiling in the night. “Promise?”
“On my life, on my honor, and on my heart.”
“Good enough.”
Ro smiled and kissed her earlobe, pausing to nibble lightly on it. B’Elanna purred but otherwise did not stir, indicating that while the spirit was willing, the flesh was a little weak this evening. A little disappointed but understanding completely, Ro kissed her cheek and pull her close in preparation for sleep, rubbing the lower part of B’Elanna’s belly in an attempt to sooth both mother and offspring. It must have worked because not only did the flutters smooth out, B’Elanna settled heavily against her, eventually drifting off.
Ro lay for a time, just holding her and marveling at how incredibly blessed her life had turned out before finally following her into sleep.
The lift came to a halt, and squaring her shoulders, she crossed the small reception area and pressed the admittance chime to the admiral’s office. In the old days, there would be a Starfleet cadet acting as a receptionist for Nechayev, ready to announce her. Now, there were too many holes in the ‘fleet to be filled to waste a body behind a desk.
“Come.”
Nechayev was a diminutive woman, but that didn’t prevent her from dominating any room she was in. She radiated presence like a warp core radiated power and even Janeway, possessor of more than her share of authority, paled in her presence. Nechayev never let up, never relaxed, and never gave in. There was a time that Janeway wanted nothing more than to be exactly like her, but that was before a certain Borg drone entered her life and taught her what was truly important.
“Admiral.”
“Captain.”
Blonde, with narrow, pinched features and keen blue eyes, Nechayev eyed Janeway as she took a seat by the large desk. Janeway resisted the urge to smile, feeling that gaze penetrate to her very bones.
“Another successfully completed mission.”
Janeway inclined her head. “The ship performed well. My crew is top notch.”
“And your first officer?”
Janeway carefully kept her expression impassive. “Kelly was adequate. But it took some doing.”
“That’s why I assigned her to you.” Nechayev smiled faintly. “Honestly, Kathryn, I knew that if you couldn’t bring her around, no one could. After a year with you, Starfleet now knows exactly where she stands and what she’s capable of.”
“That doesn’t make it easy on me or my crew, Admiral.”
Nechayev shrugged. “I know, but let’s face it, Kathryn, you already have a operational first officer in Ro Laren. It’s not as if you can’t handle it. In fact, Millennium may be the only ship in the fleet right now that can teach these officers how to be captains.”
“She’s not ready to be a starship captain.”
“I know, but more importantly, she knows that too. That’s why she’ll be able to handle an administrative position over the next year. That wouldn’t have happened before you spent time with her.”
Janeway didn’t know if she entirely agreed with that assessment but it was useless to argue the point. Nechayev was convinced Janeway’s greatest strength lay in training commanders to become captains and as long as the admiral thought so, she could expect to deal with green first officers. She sighed silently. “So have you anyone in mind to exec Millennium’s next mission?”
Nechayev tilted her head. “Are you that anxious to get back into space?”
“No, I actually want the full leave for me and my crew, this time. But I would like to know what I can expect for an first officer and where we’ll be going next.”
“When I decide on a suitable candidate, you’ll be the first I inform, Kathryn,” There was the slightest glint in Nychayev’s pale blue eyes that might have been amusement.
Janeway felt her jaw tighten. “You say I can take on your pet projects because I have a functional first officer in Ro Laren. Well, I won't be able to keep Ro much longer unless I give her a real reason to stay on Millennium.”
The glint of amusement disappeared and there seemed to be real concern shading Neychayev’s expression then. “What do you mean?”
“She and her spouse, my chief engineer, are pregnant. Both have every reason to want to remain planet-side and I think only a promotion to the position of Millennium’s exec will tempt Ro to continue on. Even then, I’m not sure it would be enough.”
Janeway watched as the admiral absorbed the information, carefully hiding her own amusement. In this continual chess game she and her superior played, it could be considered a telling blow, decidedly a check move if not actual checkmate.
“I see,” Nechayev said finally. “I’ll have to take this under consideration, Kathryn.”
“I’m sure you will,” Janeway said mildly. They exchanged a few more pleasantries without either woman committing to anything and Janeway departed the admiral’s office with a sense of satisfaction that perhaps wasn’t warranted, but felt good nonetheless.
After leaving Starfleet Headquarters, she walked briskly for the San Francisco transport center. She was expected in Indiana for supper and as usual, Janeway was running late. Worming her way through the crowds, she cursed her timing, having arrived during the peak afternoon period when people were making their way home after work. Finally she made her way to the Starfleet kiosk where she was transported to the Portage Creek station. It was much quieter here and it didn’t take her long to acquire the use of a hovercraft and program in the coordinates for the Brown County Agricultural Park where her mother and sister lived.
Leaning back in her seat, she allowed the autopilot to navigate as she enjoyed the lush fields filled with the burgeoning sprouts of new corn. The rich smell of earth and air was almost intoxicating after the somewhat sterile atmosphere of her starship and she inhaled deeply, filling her lungs. She was smiling as the farmhouse finally came into sight and she spotted her spouse on the veranda, comfortably situated on the porch swing, sipping a glass of frosted lemonade. She settled her vehicle down onto its struts and slipped over the side, greeted by a profusion of waving red tails and lolling tongues. Jake, Rufus, and their mother Molly all had to sniff the Starfleet captain over before granting her leave to head for the porch.
“Kathryn.” Seven tasted of lemons as Janeway kissed her warmly. It was so good she kissed her again.
“Darling. I’m sorry I’m late. Is dinner ready?”
“We deliberately delayed our preparation,” Seven informed her, arms wrapped around Janeway’s waist, holding her lightly. “Both Gretchen and I are cognizant of your schedule while on Earth.”
“Good.” Janeway smiled and kissed her a third time. “It gives me the chance to greet you properly.”
“A proper greeting is always appreciated,” Seven noted and kissed her back. There was no hurry for either of them to end their embrace. Their recent conflict and separation had left scars that were still tender and every opportunity to accentuate the healing was gladly accepted.
“God, after all this time, you’re still like a couple of teenagers.”
The voice was ironic and achingly familiar. Laughing, Janeway turned to her sister who had just slipped through the screen door and hugged her tightly. “Good to see you again, Phoebes.”
“Good to see you, too, Kat. Staying awhile, this time?”
“Well, for dinner at any rate.” Janeway leaned back on the railing and fondly regarded the slender form of her sister. Taller, with long, gloriously thick hair and a languid personality, Phoebe was almost her complete opposite. But for all their youthful squabbles, they had turned out to be close friends as adults. Which made the twinge of guilt Janeway felt all the sharper. “Listen, I want to talk to you about what happened---“
“Hey, it’s over and done with,” Phoebe said abruptly, face tightening. “We were in really good hands with Tuvok’s daughter…never in danger at all.”
The look in her eyes indicated that hadn’t really been the case, but for some reason, Janeway thought Phoebe’s dissembling was more for Seven’s benefit than her own. She made a mental note to take her sister aside later and find out the facts but for now, she was content to let it go. She brightened as the door swung open once more to herald the arrival of her mother.
“Kathryn.”
Enfolded into her arms, Janeway knew she was finally home. “Mom. I’ve missed you.”
“I’ve missed you, too, sweetheart. It’s good to have you back.”
Arm in arm, they entered the old farmhouse with Seven and Phoebe in tow. In the kitchen, the table had been set and the savory smells of her mother’s corn, potato and beef casserole reached out to her in encompassing comfort. It was Janeway’s favorite dish and though she was fully appreciative of Seven’s version, it wasn’t quite the same as Gretchen’s, perhaps because of the difference between replicated or alien ingredients on board Millennium, and that of the fresh ingredients off the nearby farms.
Conversation over their meal was light, almost deliberately so, Janeway thought as she ate. Seven seemed rather quiet as well. So when she found herself being maneuvered into the study by her mother after dinner while Phoebe occupied Seven, she didn’t hesitate, though she wasn’t sure she liked whatever was going on. Anything that threw Seven off stride couldn’t be good.
“Kathryn, I need to speak with you about what happened.”
“Of course, Mother.” Janeway settled into the chair behind the desk as she watched Gretchen narrowly, linking her fingers together as she rested her hands on the smooth surface before her. She wasn’t aware that she'd arrayed herself in a position of authority until Gretchen looked at her and smiled.
“You look just like your father.”
Disconcerted,
Janeway dipped her head. “I do?”
“Yes, when he thought he was
in trouble and wanted to forestall it by becoming all officious…as if
that
mattered to me.”
Janeway blinked. “Am I in trouble?”
“I don’t know, are you?” Gretchen suddenly looked very serious, taking a seat in the chair opposite her. Her eyes were narrowed as she regarded Janeway, studying her closely. “Something’s going on with Seven and while she hasn’t said anything, I know it has something to do with what happened with the incident with Tuvok’s daughter. She’s been almost uncomfortable with us since her arrival here this afternoon and neither Phoebe or I can figure out why.”
The incident with Tuvok’s daughter? Is that how Gretchen referred to it? Not that she and Phoebe had been kidnapped by a criminal organization, their very lives in peril while Janeway and Seven were a quadrant away, helpless to do anything? Dismissing it as if it had been of no consequence whatsoever? It was little wonder Seven didn’t know how to react.
“I suspect she doesn’t quite know what to say to you,” Janeway said honestly, knowing anything less would be instantly detected by her mother, though how Gretchen could tell every time, she could never determine. “It was a very tough time for us. I know it can’t compare with what you were going through---“
“Waiting for news, unable to do anything, is always more difficult, dear,” Gretchen interrupted quickly. “It was an unpleasant situation, but for the most part, it felt…unreal, as if it were happening to someone else. I suppose because neither Phoebe nor I are familiar with those situations. We perhaps didn’t have a clear grasp on what exactly could happen to us, unlike you, or Michael.” The reference to her husband made a fond smile cross Gretchen’s face, one that Janeway suspected was purely unconscious. “He was a wreck, especially afterward. He didn’t want to leave my side. I actually had to speak quite sternly to him before he was able to relax and let it go.”
She leaned forward and put her hand on Janeway’s, squeezing her fingers. “Must I speak sternly to you and Seven as well?”
Janeway shook her head. “It’s not just that, Mother. It wasn’t merely a matter of Seven and I being unable to do anything and feeling bad about it. It caused a…well, a rather profound disagreement between us. Seven wanted us to return to the Alpha Quadrant immediately. My orders were very specific about continuing our mission.”
Gretchen stared at her for a long moment. “Ah,” she said finally. “I see.” Janeway wondered if she did. “How bad a ‘disagreement’?”
Janeway looked away. “Bad.”
“Oh, darling.” Gretchen’s voice was infinitely compassionate, “I’m sorry.”
Janeway felt tears suddenly sting her eyes. “What we discovered about ourselves during that time has left both of us feeling uncertain about things, about what we believed about each other, and how we have to handle such disagreements in the future.”
“What do you mean?”
“She asked me to return home, Mother. Demanded that I, as captain, go against my orders and bring her back to the Alpha Quadrant by any means necessary.” Janeway lifted her head, meeting the warm gaze of her mother, aching for her to understand though a small fear remained that she wouldn’t. “I wanted to, Mother. Honestly, I did, but I couldn’t. It wasn’t just the orders, it was a matter of the ship’s safety which I absolutely couldn’t compromise.”
“I understand, Kathryn, you had your orders. I, above all people, know what that means.”
“I thought Seven did as well, but…well, perhaps she didn’t. Perhaps she couldn’t.”
“What happened, Kathryn?”
Janeway felt her heart catch in her throat, making it hard to swallow, to talk…to breathe. “She left me.” Just saying it tore a hole in her soul that she thought had healed. “She said that wasn’t what she intended when she stayed away so many nights, but that was what it felt like. I…it hurt me and I think, in the end, it broke me. I was actually going to turn the ship around, Mother. But it was always for her, never for you or Phoebe.”
Until that moment, until the words actually formed and left her mouth, Janeway hadn't realized that was what she had been hanging onto, what she had been struggling with. Something released inside her, loosened in her chest and she took a deep breath, the first, it seemed, in forever. She felt almost dizzy, sick even, and had to rest her head on her hands, covering her eyes with her fingers.
"Oh, dear," Gretchen said. "Now I understand. Seven actually put my and Phoebe's needs...really her own needs...above yours. The individual above and beyond the Collective. What a horrifying concept for her. And you...oh, Kathryn, you were prepared to put her above everything else, to tangibly put her needs above those of Starfleet and your command. Something that goes against everything your father taught you, everything Starfleet has taught you. Not much wonder you're both still feeling the effects. It's a wonder you both survived it."
The last was said with a touch of irony and Janeway raised her head quickly, feeling the sting. "Mother---"
"I'm sorry, but what a wonderful and terrible thing growth is. And how much it must have hurt you both in the process. I regret that, but not your chance to evolve. One must always keep moving forward, Kathryn."
"Is that all it's really about? Change? I think it's goes much deeper than that, Mother." Janeway leaned back in her chair and looked skyward, feeling suddenly empty. "How can I remain a captain when I'm prepared to totally disregard the big picture for the sake of one person, even if that person is someone I love more than my own life? More than the lives of my crew?" She swallowed hard, accepting something that she had not wanted to consciously acknowledge before now. "I'm no longer fit for starship command."
"Don't be ridiculous, Kathryn."
"I'm not, Mother. I'm sorry, but you don't...you can't understand. Not unless you've been here."
"Well, I can see you believe that. Which means Seven must be aware of it on some level. God, not much wonder you're both so tied up in knots, even as you try so hard to hide it from each other."
Janeway blinked. Was that why Seven had been seeing Kes, the ship's councilor, on a professional basis? Was that why, though they were both determined to be over their conflict and move on, there was something that still lingered between them, something that neither one wanted to address? She felt sick again.
"Kathryn, don't make any final decisions," Gretchen said urgently, squeezing hard on her fingers. "Particularly one you'll regret. Give yourself some more time. I think you're overreacting, but I also accept that perhaps you're not. In either case, you don't have to do anything about it right away. You and Seven need to be off by yourselves for awhile."
"Seven and I were talking about going to Risa for a vacation," Janeway said uncertainly.
“Perfect. Do it, Kathryn. Get away from everything, including us and Starfleet. You both desperately need some perspective."
Janeway wondered if she would ever gain enough perspective on what she had just learned, no matter where she went or how much time she took.
“Lights.”
Obligingly, illumination came up in the living room of their bungalow. Seven was pleased to see that Phoebe had carried out her instructions precisely as to the placement of their furniture. The rest of their belongings were currently stashed in large totes upstairs in the loft, transported there from the ship, which was docked in the Utopia Planetia orbital yards for a full overhaul. The couple would unpack those later as they settled into their home for the duration of their six-month leave. Carefully carrying the leftovers Gretchen had pressed on her, Seven went out to the kitchen where she deposited them into the cooled storage unit.
Back in the living room, she found Janeway crouched by the fireplace, stacking tinder and kindling under some logs, readying it for ignition. Her tunic had been tossed onto the nearby chair and the sleeves of her sweater were rolled up to her elbows. She glanced up, offered Seven a brief smile and returned her attention to her fire, striking a match to light it. Seven watched her in the flickering flames, wondering what exactly had been said between her and her mother. Janeway had been so subdued after she came out of the study, distant in a way that was only too familiar to Seven. She wasn’t sure where to begin to bridge the sudden gulf she sensed, not necessarily between them, but between Janeway and everyone outside her command.
“Darling?”
Seven offered a smile. “It is good to be home.”
“It is.” Janeway eased down onto her buttocks, resting on the thick, southwestern patterned rug that cushioned her from the hardwood floor, stretching her legs out in front of her, linking her ankles. Lifting her arm, she held out her hand in invitation. “Join me.”
Seven
closed the distance between
them and sank down onto the rug beside her. Slipping her arm around
Janeway’s
shoulder, she exhaled softly as Kathryn settled against her. Nuzzling
in the
thick, auburn hair, she listened to the sound of Janeway’s heartbeat,
steady
and slow. As they cuddled together, Seven concentrated on the soothing
flickering of the fire, the day's stresses easing from her body as the
moments passed. Finally, Seven ran her fingers through Janeway's hair.
"I do
not believe I understand Gretchen and Phoebe's reaction to the events
that occured while we were gone," she said quietly, needing Janeway to
clarify it for her. "They were extremely dismissive when I attempted to
discuss their ordeal, and both refused to elaborate on what had
happened when I asked about it."
Janeway
snuggled closer. "I know, sweetheart, they did seem a bit cavalier but
I think part of it was an attempt not to worry us. And maybe part of it
is because they're not ready to talk about it yet. When I was speaking
to Mother in the study, she mentioned that the situation, as it was
happening, just didn't seem real to her. Perhaps neither of them have
come to terms with it yet. On the other hand, maybe they have come to
terms with it and simply see no point in rehashing it for our benefit.
I just don't know."
Seven
did not find that satisfactory, but sensed that Janeway was as
perplexed as she was. Stifling a sigh, she decided that she would have
to be patient. Perhaps Gretchen and Phoebe would be more forthcoming
with her in the future.
“I suppose the bed isn’t made up.”
Seven lifted her head to look up at the loft, which also led to the master bedroom and ensuite. “I do not believe so. It will not take long to make it up.” She lowered her head and kissed Janeway on the temple. “Are you tired, Kathryn?”
“It’s been a long day,” Janeway admitted. “But I think I want to sit here by the fire for awhile.”
“Then that is what we shall do.”
They shifted a bit so that Seven could lean against the base of the sofa and Janeway could lean against her. Wrapping both arms around her, Seven held her, wanting her to feel surrounded by her love. Perhaps it would be able to close the separation she felt when she could not think of the proper words to do so. And as they sat there, she felt Janeway start to relax. It was subtle, but detectable, a definite surrender in her body language, a vulnerability that appeared in her expression and in her eyes.
“What would you think about staying here?”
“Rather than go on vacation on Risa?”
“No, I mean…” Janeway trailed off. Seven waited with infinite patience, not saying anything and finally Janeway spoke again. “I think it’s time I stepped away from starship command.”
“Unacceptable.”
Startled, Janeway turned her head to look at Seven. “Just like that? ‘Unacceptable’?”
“Yes.” Seven failed to see the need for clarifying what was a perfectly clear and logical response.
“I need more than that, Annika.”
Apparently, clarification was required. Seven again resisted the urge to sigh. “You are eminently suited for starship command, Starfleet requires your services in that capacity for the foreseeable future, and any other role would be less desirable for you at this juncture of your existence.” She tilted her head. “Why would you deem such a alteration in your life necessary at this time?”
“Oh, darling, there are so many reasons.”
Seven wondered if she would list the one that was truly the cause of this unease or if she would divert into causes that were irrelevant to the problem at hand.
“For one thing, it’s becoming more difficult physically to go out on this ship. I’m not getting any younger and the jump syndrome is starting to take its toll.”
"Both myself and the TPG are looking into this problem and I have every confidence there will be a solution found." Seven said calmly. "In any event, I find it difficult to believe that you would allow mere physical discomfort to keep you from duty."
A muscle jumped in Janeway's jaw. Clearly, both pride and ego had been pricked by Seven's cool assessment. "Fine, but there remains the fact that we were looking toward having a family and I'm still not getting any younger."
"I have no desire to add children to our family unit at this time," Seven said honestly. "As for age, theoretically, Gretchen is still capable of bearing offspring thanks to 23rd Century medical techniques, therefore, you have many years yet." The idea of Gretchen producing a young sister or brother for her made Janeway blanch, much to Seven's amusement. "You are not at all old, Kathryn, you are not even middle-aged for a Human. There is no validity in such a claim." Seven paused, considering it. "Kes is old."
Startled, diverted from the topic at hand, Janeway looked wildly at her. "What?"
Seven lifted a brow. "Surely you have noticed the signs of aging she has displayed recently."
"I thought that was deliberate on her part, an effort to make her more approachable as a councilor."
"Initially, those changes were cosmetic, easily detected by my ocular implant as superficial. They are no longer superficial. At this point, her cellular structure is decaying along predicated genetic lines." Seven gentled her tone. "Ocampa live nine years at most, Kathryn. Kes is actually twelve."
"But the Ocampa who were with the second Caretaker were living up to twenty! Her transformation should have extended her life!"
"It did, but only until now. "
"Dear God."
Seven bent her head. "I am sorry, Kathryn, I know this must be difficult for you. She is your friend."
"She is."
Determined to bring the discussion back on course, Seven hugged her. "Why do you wish to leave starship command? It is your first, best destiny."
"You are my first, best destiny, my darling." Janeway nudged her head under Seven's chin, rather like one of the barn cats that populated Gretchen's farm.
Which was close to what was really concerning her, of course, but until Janeway actually acknowledged the true problem to Seven, she would not accept any counter argument. And it was entirely possible that Seven was not the one who could offer the proper counter for Janeway to believe it, being far too close to the issue. But who could?
There were many things that Seven could not change in her life, her assimilation by the Borg, the loss of her parents, the inability to bear children. But if there was only one thing she could take back, one thing that she could alter in her history, it would be that she had never left Kathryn alone for three nights, had never made that demand on her, had never forced her to choose between her command and the woman she loved. It was an inexcusable lapse and Seven had no idea how to repair the damage.
“Are you still interested in going to Risa?” Janeway nudged her gently. “I was thinking we could use a cruise liner for our traveling and spend a week or so on the planet before coming home.”
“A cruise liner?”
“Yeah, it’s a trip totally designed to pamper the traveler. It’ll be completely different from starship duty.”
Seven, who had no real opinion on it, responded to the enthusiasm in Janeway’s voice. “I believe I would enjoy that.”
“Wonderful. I’ll make the arrangements.”
From the change in topics, Seven knew she had ferreted out everything she could this evening. Any further pursuit of it would only serve to irritate Kathryn and make her even less willing to discuss the problem in the future. She would have to bide her time and bring it up at a more opportune moment, such as on their vacation. Lying on the beach, a tropical drink in her hand, well fed and well loved, would leave Janeway particularly vulnerable to any type of philosophical discussion.
She kissed her ear and then her cheek, easing her hand beneath the hem of her sweater to touch the smooth, warm skin of Janeway’s belly. Janeway made a small sound of pleasure, snuggling closer. “Shall I take you to bed, Kathryn?”
Janeway laughed quietly. “I thought you were starting right here.”
Seven stroked higher, a lazy circle over her abdomen. “Are you not too old for making love on the floor?” she asked pointedly. “I would not wish to cause physical discomfort, thereby preventing you from making any future attempts.”
Janeway sat up, turning to look at her, ire sparking in her gaze. “Oh, you’ll pay for that remark, Sprite.”
Seven lifted a brow, intrigued. “I will?”
She smiled as Janeway bore her down to the floor, mercilessly stripping away her uniform. As she did, Seven happily removed Kathryn’s, tunics and sweaters, trousers and undergarments being scattered about the living area with abandon. Lying on her back, Seven looked up at Janeway straddling her, cupping her breasts as her thumbs fondled her sensitive nipples. Janeway leaned into the caress, her eyes a luminous bluish tint as she stared back.
“Do you know how much I love you?” she whispered.
“I know,” Seven told her quietly. She sat up, slipping her arms around Janeway to hold her close, kissing her passionately. Her smooth skin glowed golden in the firelight and as she felt Kathryn’s legs wrap around her hips, desire flared so strongly in her, it was hard to breathe properly. Fingers tangled in her long, blonde hair, Janeway held her mouth tightly against her own, tongues touching, sweet and slow. Both were panting as Seven trailed down her throat.
“I love you, I love you, I love you,” Janeway whispered over and over, a prayer, a chant, a benediction. “My darling Annika.”
“My Kathryn.”
Their lovemaking became quieter, gentler, yet more passionate at the same time, Seven reached down to touch Janeway, her wetness like silk on her fingers. She gasped as she felt Janeway’s hand on her, fingers moving gently but purposefully against her. Whispers of love and passion enhanced their desire and when they both arrived at that glorious peak, almost simultaneously, it was as much spiritual as it was physical. They rocked together in perfect harmony, heartbeats in sync, holding onto each other as if clinging to boulders in a storm.
Eyes closed, Seven hugged Janeway, being hugged in return, feeling safe and happy in the loving afterglow. She listened to her breath, warm and soft on her neck, not wanting to move for the next eon or so, Finally, Janeway drew back a little, enough so that she could look into Seven’s eyes. Smiling faintly, she cupped Seven’s cheek in her palm, but still didn’t say anything, merely looking at her as if she simply couldn’t get enough of the sight of her.
Seven finally leaned forward and kissed her very gently and lovingly, slow and tender, trying to convey all her emotion in that single touch, however inadequate it was for the task, lingering over her lips for some time before drawing back. Janeway made a quiet sound of pleasure in her throat and dropped her head onto Seven’s shoulder, cuddling against her.Seven exhaled quietly and basked in the moment. There were many things the couple had to deal with, but for now, it was enough to hold Janeway and love her. Everything else would come in due time.She woke slowly, conscious of the warmth wrapped around her back, of the soft breath stirring the hair at the back of her neck. The air, cool and thick with moisture, wafted through the nearby window, cracked open to admit the foggy dawn. She could hear the first twitters of birdsong, the soft rustle of breeze in the leaves, the far off rush of harbor waters. The unfamiliar sounds were undoubtedly what had awakened her, so used was she to the constant hum of warp drive and ship function. The difference was jarring. Snuggling back into Seven’s body, she was grateful for her presence and the knowledge of her love.
She could get used to this, she thought. Could get used to staying on Earth full time. She had been musing on it ever since the conversation with her mother, though she hadn't wanted to let on, especially to Seven. She knew Seven would only feel responsible in some way, and she didn't want that. This was to be her decision and hers alone. And one, she supposed, she had been fooling herself about for some time. There was no balance between being a wife and being a captain. Instead, it had been a juggling act, one that the slightest nudge would disturb. She was just fortunate that the nudge that had made her drop the balls had been without casualties, that no one had to die for her to realize she could not weigh the life of Seven against that of her crew.
She didn't know why she had been so surprised. Hadn't she seen the lesson over and over that one couldn't have it all? That everything came with a price and usually, the greater the reward, the higher the cost? Her father had shown all too well that to be the best in one’s field, something had to give in the other. To be a great Starfleet leader, one had to sacrifice one's personal life. She had thought she'd escaped it, that she had learned from his life and could make hers better. That she was smarter than he was. In truth, all she'd proven to herself was that she had been more oblivious.
The hubris. The sheer, unmitigated gall, to presume she had somehow managed what so many others had tried and failed.
Well, she knew better now, and she was content with her decision. Being with Seven had given her so much, and she could still make a difference in Starfleet administration. If it didn't offer the same excitement and personal satisfaction that starship command did, what did it matter? Certainly being in Seven's arms offered all the excitement and satisfaction any one person could want, or for that matter, even deserve.
Seven made a small sound and stirred, tightening her arms around Janeway. Her hand slipped up to cover her breast but when she didn’t make any further moves, Janeway knew it had been unconscious, a matter of seeking out comfort in sleep rather than an initiation of lovemaking. A little disappointed, she was nonetheless grateful for these moments of quiet reflection before the day drew them from this cozy nest of comfort and peace. Not that it had to, she mused. After all, they were on leave and if they wanted to spend the day in bed, they could.
How long had it been since they had indulged themselves so? Too long, she decided. Time to change that.
Closing her eyes, Janeway allowed herself to drift off, drowsiness stealing over her with irresistible force. When she woke again, it was to Seven’s lips trailing lightly over her neck as her palm chafed her left nipple into exquisite alertness, and long fingers raked through the thin hair of her triangle. Janeway groaned lazily, delighted by the loving hands of her spouse.
“Be still, Kathryn,” Seven whispered. “Let me love you.”
That was a request Janeway rarely, if ever, resisted. Quieting under Seven’s touch, Janeway sank readily into the exquisite joy of hands and mouth moving over her body, the breathy words of love and tenderness in her ears. The touch of Seven’s fingers moving lazily over her clit, massaging in carefully controlled circles, sent ever intensifying chills of pleasure through her. The heavy musk of her desire tickled her nostrils and the provocative sound of Seven’s fingers fondling her wetness left her weak. There was absolutely no better way in the universe to wake up, in her opinion, and she was practically insensate by the time Seven had finished lifting her to her peak.
“God, darling, what you do to me,” she murmured, still trembling in the aftershocks.
“It is only what you inspire, Kathryn,” Seven told her as she hugged her tight. “I have missed these opportunities to indulge our sensuality to its fullest.”
Though often sharing off days while on Millennium, their time together had always been tempered with the knowledge that they could be interrupted at any time, called back to duty with only a hail on their communicators. It was sheer heaven to be in their home in San Francisco, away from the demands and rigors of starship duty. It freed them in a way that they simply weren’t on board ship.
“So have I.” Feeling her strength return somewhat, she rolled over and drew her hands lovingly down Seven’s back, scratching lightly. “Now let me indulge you.”
An hour or so later, they broke for breakfast, though by that time, it could be considered brunch, served to Janeway in bed by Seven who had not bothered to dress. Janeway found the whole experience completely delightful, if a bit wearing. It had been a while since they had thoroughly ravished each other in this manner, and she suspected she was regrettably out of practice as far as physical endurance was concerned. By mid-afternoon, she finally had to cry uncle, lying boneless on the bed, legs and arms askew, every orifice throbbing with exhausted pleasure. Which, of course, required quite a lengthy explanation of what ‘crying uncle’ meant and where the expression had come from, not to mention the amusement it generated in Seven as she realized that the great Janeway had finally admitted to being unable to keep up to her young spouse.
Though Janeway did win the pillow fight such an observation sparked, mostly because she didn’t fight fair and had no compunction about tickling the larger, stronger, more physically capable Seven into submission.
“Enough!” Seven demanded finally, between giggles that she could not stifle.
Janeway hesitated, and then acquiesced, knowing she won because Seven only used a fraction of her strength when fighting back. She rolled over onto her back, still laughing and threw her arms over her head, looking up at the ceiling. “That was fun.”
“I enjoy having fun with you.” Seven rose to her side, leaning on her elbow to look down at Janeway. “We have not had a great deal of fun lately.”
“No, we haven’t. Too busy healing, I suspect,” Janeway said with a brutal honesty more characteristic of her spouse than her.
“Yes,” Seven agreed, a hint of surprise coloring her tone. “Have we finished healing, Kathryn?”
“Perhaps. I’m not sure. What do you think?”
Seven was silent a moment. “I believe there is still a certain amount left to accomplish.”
Janeway reached up and brushed her cheek with her fingertip. “I think you’re right.”
Seven’s leaned down, her lips brushing over Janeway’s, soft and loving. “I have every confidence in our ability to complete the process, Kathryn.”
“I do, too.”
They lay there for a few moments in quiet contemplation of each other before Janeway nudged her gently. “Come on. Let’s shower and get dressed. I’ll take you out for dinner.”
“The Green Dragon?” Seven’s tone was a trifle eager. It was their favorite restaurant, and there were many dishes served up by the chef that defied Seven’s attempts to analyze the ingredients and reproduce the recipes.
“Wherever you want, my love.”
They showered together and it took much longer than it had to as they seized the opportunity to make love once more beneath the stinging spray. Leaning against the tiles walls, looking down at the blonde head and the warm water cascading over the long length of her sinuous back as Seven’s mouth did the most marvelous things to her, Janeway decided that it wouldn’t be at all hard to get used to having this as a regular thing.
They held hands as they walked along the promenade along the waterfront, leading to the restaurant. The sun sparkled off the deep blue waters of the harbor and the span of the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. The structure had survived several earthquakes since its construction, including a major one in the 21st century that nearly destroyed it entirely. But it had been rebuilt and now seismic devices buried deep along the various fault lines sent out regular and periodic pulses to relieve any building pressure. The ancient structure, maintained by the city as a landmark, need suffer only the wear and tear of the foot and bicycle traffic that tackled its immense span. Janeway had walked and biked across it many times during her time as a cadet at the Academy, but she and Seven had yet to make the attempt. She decided that they would have to before long. The view from the center was spectacular.
Seven squeezed her hand. “What are you thinking?”
“How often we miss opportunities right under our noses. I think maybe we’re so busy pursuing the big picture, we sometimes miss the little things.” Janeway glanced over and smiled. “The little things are important, too.”
“Indeed.”
The restaurant was busy but they were able to get a table on balcony overlooking the harbor. After ordering, Janeway rested her chin on her palm and looked across the table at Seven who was staring thoughtfully at a sailboat moving gracefully through the water. Her long hair was left loose, and it stirred in the slight breeze, strands occasionally drifting across her ocular implant that she brushed away absently. Janeway’s heart felt so full, she thought it would burst.
Seven turned her head and met her gaze, eyebrow lifting. “You are staring, Kathryn.”
“Yes, I am. Your beauty rivals anything that might be out there.”
“You are in an exceedingly odd mood this day.”
“I suppose I am.”
“Is there anything you need to say to me?”
“Just that I love you. And want you.” Janeway lifted her chin and reached across the table, taking Seven’s fingers in her hand, squeezing gently. “And I’m going to have you once we return home.”
“Ah.” Seven murmured. “Am I to assume that you will not be prevailing upon your mythological uncle this evening?”
“I actually do have an uncle, you know.”
Seven blinked, clearly surprised. “No, I did not know. Why have you never told me about your relative?”
Janeway shrugged, feeling a little embarrassed now that she thought about it. “I suppose it never came up before now. Gerald is my mother’s younger brother. He lives on Falcor Prime, a very Traditionalist colony. It’s extremely old school. Not even land speeders, just horses on which to get around. I guess I don’t talk about him much because I haven’t seen him for years and years. The last time was at Grandfather Taylor’s funeral and he went back almost immediately. I was only fifteen and haven’t seen him since. The Falcorians don’t like space travel as a rule and the colony only has one deep space communicator for emergencies so it’s not as if there’s any way to stay in contact. I hardly think about him.”
“Sometimes, I am unsure how your family line formed. It seems that there is always a marriage between high tech and traditional values that cannot help but clash, from Shannon O’Donnel and Henry Janeway to your father and Gretchen.”
“But they always seem to work out,” Janeway reminded her, smiling. “Look at you and me. You’re a Traditionalist at heart while I, born to the settlement, would rather live in the 24rd Century. Sometimes, those are the best matches of all, particularly once the art of compromise is learned.”
Seven dipped her head. “Always a valuable skill in any endeavor.”
Janeway smiled and leaned back in her chair as the waiter delivered their meals, already looking forward to their return home.
Seven entered the lounge of the huge passenger vessel transporting her and Janeway to Risa for their vacation. Janeway was seated at a table next to a viewport that looked out at the stars and she glanced up at that moment, almost as if she sensed Seven’s arrival. She smiled and lifted her hand slightly, waving her over. There was already had a glass full of red wine in front of her and the bread was on the table. Seven realized she was a little late and quickened her pace across the room. As she did, she was peripherally aware of various eyes, male and female, human and alien, following her progress with ill concealed appreciation. It amused her as she settled into her seat across from Janeway.
“You’re late.”
“I was delayed.”
“By what?”
“Choosing the perfect outfit with which to impress you.”
Startled, Janeway laughed. “Then you selected well, my love, and I’m not the only one that noticed. You certainly made an entrance.” She looked over Seven’s simple, but elegant red sheathe, the shirt cut short to show off the long length of her legs, and the bodice dipping low to display her cleavage. The silver of her implants glinted in the diffused light, appearing more like jewelry than cybernetic enhancements. Her hair had been left loose and long, held back from her face with strategically placed hairpins on either side. “You look absolutely ravishing.”
Seven, satisfied that she had provided her partner with the opportunity to indulge a possessive sort of pride in her appearance, smiled briefly and reached out for some bread. She found traveling as a passenger on the UFP Poseidon a rather odd experience. Though she had journeyed to Trill and Vulcan before while on leave, it had been with Phoebe and Ro on a small, private vessel. This was a huge, luxury cruiser and the passenger list included a wide variety of individuals that Seven would never have encountered in ordinary circumstances. Nor were they the type that normally went into space on a regular basis. Designed to pamper its passengers, the ship boasted gyms, and holodecks and game rooms and large observation decks that looked out on the various spatial phenomena that littered the Alpha Quadrant on the round trip to the vacation planet. There were no attempts at scientific discovery, no in-depth study of the phenomena, merely views of ‘pretty’ vistas before moving on to the next stop on the itinerary.
“I’ve taken the liberty of ordering for you,” Janeway told her.
“A liberty indeed,” Seven said archly. “What am I having?”
“Their seafood platter.”
Seven thought about it. “Acceptable.”
The only thing that made the trip bearable for Seven was that the food on board was simply spectacular, created from scratch from the multitude of five-star chefs that worked in the vast kitchens. Or rather, Seven assumed they were vast. She had not been able to gain permission to visit them, nor could she schedule any time to speak with the various chefs, presumably because they were not prepared to share any of their recipes. So she was reduced to analyzing the probable ingredients from sampling the various offerings. It was admittedly, an inefficient method of determining the construction of the dishes, but one that Seven found somewhat entertaining.
And she would put on a good face because she knew Kathryn desperately needed some time away from Starfleet, her command and all the other burdens she was carrying, some of which she had yet to share with Seven. And for whatever reason, Janeway apparently enjoyed this lazy sail through the stars to Risa, conversing with the other passengers about things of little consequence. Seven suspected the appeal of that would wear off the instant someone talked down to her, either scientifically, technically, or politically but until then, Janeway was not a starship captain…not the woman who had faced down the Borg on countless occasions and came away the victor. She was just another ‘tourist’.
“Why are you smiling?”
Seven lifted a brow. “I am happy to be with you, Kathryn. And pleased that you are enjoying yourself.”
“Even if you’re not?” Janeway’s tone was a bit sardonic.
Seven did not know how to reply to that. She could deceive by omission, but stating something that was untrue was still impossible for her to do convincingly. “As long as you are pleased with our surroundings, I am content,” she said finally, feeling it an inadequate response.
Janeway laughed again, her eyes shaded to a bright blue. “I know you still find it difficult to spend long periods of time without a useful purpose, but that’s what a vacation is for.”
“I will adapt.”
Later, in their stateroom, Seven watched Janeway stretch out on that bed after a long, leisurely bath in the fully appointed ensuite. The tips of her fingers were wrinkled, indicating that she had spent too much time in the hot water but she knew Kathryn was unlikely to listen to any advice regarding it. Leaving the padd she’d been perusing, she moved over to the bed and looked down at Janeway with an analytical gaze.
“See something you like?” Janeway looked back at her with a tiny grin quirking the corner of her mouth.
“I see a great deal I like,” Seven responded honestly. Her eyes trailed over the smooth skin and rounded curves with an intensity that brought a flush to Janeway, leaving her practically glowing.
“Then perhaps you should do something about it.”
“Perhaps.” Seven met her gaze, noting that Janeway’s eyes were shaded their utmost blueness. “Perhaps I merely wish to observe, much like the other ‘tourists’ on board this vessel.”
Janeway chuckled. “You and I both know that actual discovery is far more entertaining than merely observing.”
“Perhaps.” Seven began to undress, aware of Janeway acute scrutiny as she did. Wearing only a dress and brief undergarments, it did not take long. “And what exactly is it that I will discover?”
“That’s part of the thrill.” Janeway’s voice was suddenly very husky. “Not knowing what is out there, though I suspect that there is very little left to discover about me.”
Seven disagreed, knowing that Janeway was more than capable of still surprising her, but didn’t say it. Instead, she crawled onto the bed and reached out to her, drawing her into a warm embrace. The touch of her warm skin on her own was enough to bring tears to her eyes, just from the sheer joy of touching her.
Janeway noticed the shine in her eyes and cupped Seven’s cheek, her expression suddenly very gentle and loving. “My darling.”
“Kathryn.” Feeling absurdly bashful, Seven buried her face in the warm curve of her neck, inhaling her lovely fragrance. “I love you.”
“I love you, too.” Janeway nuzzled her ear. “I’m sorry I dragged you on this trip. I know it’s not very exciting.”
“No, Kathryn, it is my failing. I have not allowed myself to relax and meet our fellow passengers. Perhaps I am not as socially adept as I believed.”
“You’ll be fine, darling. In any event, we’re invited to sit at the captain’s table tomorrow night,” Janeway assured her. “I’m sure you’ll be able to find things to discuss with the other passengers then.”
Seven drew back to look her in the face. “Is this truly the life you want, Kathryn?”
Janeway exhaled audibly, the expression on her face altering. “Darling, I’ll still be with Starfleet.”
“In an administrative capacity. You would be miserable.”
“It has to happen sometime.”
“But not now, Kathryn. Not yet.”
Janeway’s features, which had tightened, abruptly relaxed and she leaned forward, kissing Seven gently. “I haven’t made any final decisions, darling. As soon as I do, I’ll let you know. In the meantime, I need to work this out on my own. Can you accept that?”
Seven hesitated, but she knew that she had to respect this. For whatever reason, this was not an area where she could help her spouse. She wondered if she dared contact Jean Luc Picard, with whom she shared a certain bond because of their respective experiences with the Borg. It was possible another captain could get through to Janeway where she couldn’t.
Then Janeway kissed her again, and Seven let the topic go as she returned the kiss eagerly, delighted to press full length against her, Sliding her hand between them, she played with Janeway’s breast, fingers seeking out the soft protrusion of nipple to tease and torment it into aching stiffness. Janeway made a sound deep her throat, one of pleasure and anticipation.
Seven could feel Janeway stroke her back and buttocks, gripping the swells firmly to pull their pelvises together, grinding against her. And all the time, they continued to kiss, deep, shattering, hungry kisses, joyful merging of tongues and lips. Seven found it difficult to breathe, to temper the desire rising so strong within her. Janeway grunted as Seven’s left arm squeezed a little too tightly and immediately, Seven relaxed it, stroking Janeway’s spine in mute apology.
Deliberately slowing the pace in an attempt to control her passion, Seven trailed down Janeway’s throat, kissing the small hollow at the base, then dipped her head to cover a pert, brown nipple with her lips, tongue tickling it unmercifully. Janeway squirmed happily and hugged Seven’s head to her, pressing into the caress. As Seven tasted and teased her, Janeway cupped Seven’s breasts, their fullness spilling over her hands as she fondled them. Seven enjoyed the caresses, but she wanted more and she pressed Janeway down against the mattress, moving down her body, kissing her abdomen, using the tip of her tongue to tease her naval.
Placing her palms inside Janeway’s thighs, she urged them apart, spreading her legs wide to grant her access to the tender juncture between them. Eager to taste her, Seven leaned over and drew her tongue lovingly up the entire length of her wetness, the flavor thick and salt-sweet and so uniquely Kathryn that she wanted to weep. Reaching down to cup her buttocks, she held her up, making it impossible for Janeway to move away as Seven focused her entire attention on pleasuring her. She heard Janeway cry out, a half moan, half shout of delight, and hoped that the soundproofing on this vessel was comparable to that of Millennium’s. Her tongue fluttered and swirled over the firm ridge of Janeway’s desire, dipping down to spear into her wetness before returning, a relentless assault that did not falter.
Janeway arched and trembled, driven ever closer to her peak. As she neared it, her clit became elusive, forcing Seven to strengthen her focus, refusing to let it escape. Janeway bucked, once, twice, shuddering helplessly, and the sudden rush of moisture, the involuntary tug of Janeway’s fingers tangled in Seven’s long hair, let her know she was there. With care, Seven carried her through it, lightening her touch but not relinquishing it, keeping the desire present rather than letting it slip away.
Janeway didn’t descend far from the plateau, and Seven began to intensify her oral caress once more. Slipping her hand up under her chin, she used two fingers to penetrate Janeway’s wetness, delighting in the hot, slick walls that squeezed them. Janeway cried out again, gripping Seven’s head tightly, thighs closing about her ears. Seven smiled briefly, the edge of her teeth raking delicately over the tender flesh in a sharp caress, then her tongue soothed over it, laving it deeply as she began to thrust gently, reaching as far as she could into the depths of Janeway’s body.
Janeway’s cries became weaker, brief gasps as Seven moved in and out of her, her lips and tongue constant on her clit. As she felt the helpless shudder that originated deep within Janeway, she thrust a final time, burying her fingers deep, curled up to press on that smooth spot inside. Janeway couldn’t make a sound, her body spasming in mindless pleasure, the pulsations that tried to draw Seven’s fingers deeper inside, went on for several seconds, longer than normal, before finally subsiding.
Quite satisfied with her effort, Seven kissed the throbbing clit with careful tenderness, not wanting to push the over stimulated nerves into numbness. The scent of her, musky and deep, left her intoxicated and rested her forehead on the tangled, damp mat of hair, inhaling deeply. Janeway was a complete feast for her senses, and she basked in it completely, cherishing this moment of Janeway’s complete pleasure.
And decided she was enjoying her vacation after all.
Janeway gathered in the scattered pieces of herself in the lazy afterglow, feeling the delicate touch of Seven’s lips on the tender skin inside her thigh, and then the soft weight of her head lifting up to rest on her stomach. Weakly, she stroked the tangled blonde hair, lightly massaging Seven’s temple, just beside the ocular implant. Occasionally, she would lift a fingertip and draw it over the metal curve, knowing that Seven could feel it and appreciated that Janeway did not avoid her implants.
“Darling, that was astounding.”
Seven made a small sound of amusement. “You always say that.”
“You’re always astounding.” She slid her hand down until her fingers were under Seven’s chin and with a light pressure, urged her up. Seven crawled up her body and settled lightly on top of her, kissing her deeply. Janeway tasted herself on Seven’s mouth, arms wrapped around her body, drawing her down so that more weight was pressing down on her, needing the sense of being covered, of being completely possessed by her.
Seven parted her thighs, pressing her mound against the top part of Janeway’s leg. Undulating gently, she pleasured herself, the little knot of her clit skidding in the moisture. Janeway kissed her again and slipped her hand down the bumpy length of her spine, over the defined hollows at the base of her back and to the cleft between her buttocks. She could just reach the seeping wetness, covering her fingers in silken moisture before slipping back to circle her anus.
Seven groaned and increased her undulations, head falling beside Janeway’s so that her breath was heavy in her ear. Smiling, Janeway teased open the wrinkled orifice, carefully easing her finger inside, pushing past the restrictive muscle inside.
“Not enough, Kathryn,” Seven gasped.
“I know, darling,” Janeway murmured softly. “Just enjoy it for a few minutes.”
As Seven hunche