Chapter 1

Julian tossed the darts at the board and sighed in disgust. "Not my night," he sighed, walking over to pull them out. O'Brien grinned and stepped up to the line. "How's Dax doing?" he asked. It had been a week since the attack on the station.

Julian grunted softly as he realized O'Brien had beat him again. "She's better. I think I'll let her return to work in a few days."

O'Brien laughed. "I bet she wasn't to thrilled with your mandate about her not going back to work."

"Why do you think I'm here?" Julian grinned. "She's been unbearable."

Miles laughed softly as they wandered to the bar. "Escaping, as it were?"

Julian shrugged and glanced around. Quark's was as busy as ever. There were few times nowadays when the station seemed, well, normal. "Everyone needs to now and then," he replied. He finished his drink and smiled. "I'd better get back. I'll see you later?"

"Sure," O'Brien said. Julian nodded and walked off. He got about halfway around the Promenade when he was stopped. "Dr. Bashir?"

Julian turned and found himself facing a short, balding man in his late thirties to early forties. He was dressed in the gold uniform of the engineering/security division but there were no pips on his collar. "Yes."

"I'm Dr. Lewis Zimmerman from Jupiter Station. I'd like to speak with you about the LMH."

Julian blinked. He hadn't even heard of the LMH. "I'm sorry. I don't know what you're talking about."

It was Zimmerman's turn to blink. "Didn't Star Fleet Medical tell you of my arrival?"

"No." He paused. "Should they have?"

"Well, have you heard of the EMH?" Zimmerman sighed.

Julian sighed and glanced over his shoulder. "Dr. Zimmerman, if we could talk about this at another time, I'd appreciate it. I've got to be getting back home."

"I'm afraid not. I have a limited amount of time here and I need to get this project finished." Zimmerman considered. "But, if you're in such a rush, I'll walk with you instead."

Julian refrained from rolling his eyes and started off again briskly, hoping the shorter man couldn't keep stride with him. "I've heard about the EMH," Julian said, answering his earlier question. "But I'm afraid we can't use it here. Most pure Federation technology doesn't work well with the computer systems."

"Your loss," Zimmerman huffed, occasionally breaking into a jog to keep pace. Julian gave him credit for perseverance and slowed his stride marginally. "In any case, the LMH is an extension of this." Julian stopped outside the door to the quarters he shared with Jadzia and keyed the release. "And Star Fleet Medical, for reasons I have yet to fathom, has chosen you for the template."

"Julian! I was beginning to wonder." Dax walked out into the main room to see her husband standing at the door with another person, staring at him in a shocked sort of manner. He turned his gaze to Jadzia and smiled, shaking off whatever had possessed him. "Sorry," he apologized. "I was temporarily detained by Dr. Zimmerman here." Julian turned to the doctor. "Dr. Zimmerman, this is Jadzia Dax. Jadzia, Dr. Lewis . . ."

"Zimmerman, of the Jupiter institute," he cut in, taking Dax's hand. "A pleasure to meet you." Julian coughed softly as he walked over to the replicator and got a glass of water, trying desperately not to laugh.

"Papa?" A tiny voice called from the bedroom and Gloria poked her curly head around the corner. Her face lit up in a bright grin and she toddled over to him. Julian scooped her up and steeled his expression into one of mock seriousness. "Shouldn't you be in bed?" he frowned. Gloria giggled and patted his cheeks. He smiled and glanced over her curly head at Zimmerman. He was talking animatedly with Jadzia, who was nodding patiently, much in the way she used to years ago whenever he was trying to impress her. He grinned. "Doctor?"

Zimmerman glanced at Bashir and nodded. "Yes, well, as I was saying, Star Fleet Medical sent me here to create the LMH, and use you as a template."

Dax's eyes lit up. "Julian! That's wonderful." She planted a warm kiss on his cheek. Julian smiled indulgently.

"I'm going to need to speak with your station's commander and the chief engineer. It's also my understanding that your father currently resides on the station."

"That's correct," Julian replied, setting Gloria down.

"I'm going to need to speak with him as well. Along with your colleagues, co workers, friends, and other living family members. And, of course, your beautiful wife here."

Julian felt his shoulders tensen up. "For what, may I ask?"

"Interviews." Zimmerman sighed. "In order for the LMH to interact with officers for extended periods of time it needs to have a background. How on earth am I supposed to do that if I can't interview people who know you?"

Dax smiled at Julian. "Makes sense to me," she said. She reached to take Gloria. "Come on, little one. Why don't we put you to bed?"

"I will," Julian smiled. He turned to Zimmerman. "Perhaps we could continue this later?"

"Of course. Tomorrow morning." Zimmerman nodded at Dax and strode out.

Dax smiled and wrapped her arms around him. "You seem to get one bit of good news after another," she smiled. She kissed him briefly and gave Gloria a kiss. "Good night munchkin," she smiled.

"No." Gloria frowned. Dax smiled and ruffled her hair. "Good luck," she whispered to Julian. He laughed and carried Gloria into the bedroom. "Okay, kiddo. Bedtime."

"No. Papa." Her voice turned plaintive and she jutted her lower lip out.

"Ah ah. None of that," he said softly. He picked up the bottle that Dax had prepared and sat down with Gloria in the rocking chair. They had been trying to wean her off her bedtime bottle' for awhile to no avail. Dax had finally given in about a month ago saying, "She'll grow out of it when she grows out of it." Julian leaned back in the chair as Gloria continued drinking, his mind wandering. After several minutes he realized that she was asleep. Smiling, he gently took the bottle from her hands and laid her in the crib. Quietly, he slipped out of the room. He put the empty bottle in the replicator and it vanished as Dax walked out of the bedroom. "She's asleep?" she asked. Julian nodded and wrapped her in his arms. "Hello," he murmured, gently kissing her.

Dax smiled and pulled back slightly. "Do you want dinner or did you eat at Quark's?" He had had to remain at work longer than usual, due to an emergency and, afterwards, had called her to say he was going to Quark's to unwind a bit before coming home.

"Have you eaten?" he asked, studying her.

"A bit," she admitted. "I wasn't too hungry." She saw his frown of disapproval and sighed. "Love, don't start. I know what you told me. I wasn't hungry earlier. I am now. Now, answer the question."

Julian smiled, momentarily abashed. "Yes. What do you want?"

"Whatever," she smiled, resting her head against his shoulder. Julian kissed the top of her head and went to the replicator. He ordered two servings of lamb kebabs and tabouli. Dax sank down on the couch, smiling. She enjoyed these informal dinners they had been having of late. They could sit and talk for hours and not have to worry about watching Gloria or some other thing. He handed her a plate and sank down next to her. "So," she smiled. "Looks like Star Fleet's finally giving credit where credit is due."

Julian laughed softly and popped a bit of meat in his mouth. "Perhaps," he said after swallowing. "I don't know thought."

"What?" she smiled, wrapping an arm around his waist. "Julian, this is a shot at immortality. And Star Fleet's the one who nominated you." She kissed the corner of his jaw. "I'd say that's pretty impressive."

"Hmm," he smiled. They ate in silence for several minutes, just enjoying being near each other. After a while, Dax set her plate on the coffee table. "So when can I go back to work?" she asked.

Julian grinned and steeled his expression into one of pensiveness. "I don't know," he sighed. "Your appetite still isn't up to par and you're still much thinner than you should be."

"I'll eat Delven fluff pastries for a week if you'll let me go back to work tomorrow," she smiled. "Wait, I take that back. You'll hold me to that, won't you?"

"You'd better believe it," he laughed. Dax frowned and he smiled. "Just a second." He got up and fetched a tricorder. Dax sighed with mock impatience as he scanned her and studied the readouts. She waited and saw him clear the tricorder and scan her again. Dax's frown deepened. Julian glanced up at her and cleared the tricorder a third time. "Stop that!" she exclaimed, gently swatting him. He smiled and nodded. "Alright. You can report for duty tomorrow. But," he said, holding a hand up. "I want you to take it easy. I mean two fifteen minute breaks and an hour lunch break." Dax nodded, smiling. He sighed and sat back down next to her. Dax curled close, wrapping her arms around him. "You realize I'll be checking up on you," he said.

"Mm hmm," Dax murmured, kissing him. He smiled and kissed her back. Dax leaned against him, relaxing. After a moment he pulled back. "And," he continued, "you're to get a full night's sleep tonight." Dax regarded him with raised eyebrows, her eyes teasing. "I mean it Commander," he said, frowning. "Otherwise I can prescribe a week of bed rest."

Dax smiled. "Last time you did that, we ended up engaged." Julian laughed.

*******

Michael Bashir was just arriving at his office when Julian approached. "Julian! What can I do for you?"

"We need to talk," Julian said, his voice deathly quiet.

Michael raised his eyebrows and nodded. He thumbed the release on the door and walked in. He was even more startled when Julian said, "Computer, privacy seal." Michael turned. "What's wrong?"

"There's a scientist here named Dr. Zimmerman. He's from the Jupiter Institute. Apparently, Star Fleet asked him to elaborate on his EMH, ah, Emergency Medical Holographic doctor, and they wanted to use me as a template."

"Julian! Congratulations. This should be quite an honor."

Julian nodded slowly but didn't smile. "Michael, he's going to be interviewing people I know, friends, co-workers, family. And he's going to be asking very detailed questions. Specifically about my childhood."

Michael nodded slowly. "Understood. Don't worry Julian."

"Don't worry?" Julian's eyes widened in shock. "Michael, this is my career we're talking about."

"And mine," he countered. "And as you're so fond of pointing out, there's very little that's more important to me." His eyes made clear what was most important. Julian bit his lip unhappily but nodded. "Alright. I just wanted to tell you. So you know what to expect."

"Of course. Thank you." The elder Bashir studied his son for a moment. "Julian, I'm curious. When did you tell Jadzia?" Julian shifted uncomfortably and Michael's eyes widened. "You're kidding me. You never told her?" Julian looked miserable as he nodded. Michael sighed and frowned. "Julian, I know you don't much care for my advice but I suggest you tell her. And soon. God forbid anyone ever find out but it'd be best if she heard it from you rather than someone else."

Julian nodded slowly. "Yes, I know. It's just that there's never really been time. Or it simply doesn't cross my mind."

"Perhaps. But you have time now. Go. I'll take care of Zimmerman." Julian nodded gratefully and left.

*******

Dax walked into Zimmerman's temporary office. "Doctor?"

He walked out of the adjoining room and smiled at her. "Commander. Good. Have a seat and we'll get started." Dax sat down and leaned back in her chair. Zimmerman glanced up at her. "How long have you known Dr. Bashir?"

Dax smiled. "Almost five years," she said.

"And how long have the two of you been married?"

"Almost two years," she replied.

"How well would you say you know him?"

Dax laughed. "Very well. We were good friends before becoming involved with each other."

"What was your initial impression of him?"

Dax smiled fondly. "Young, energetic, charming, intelligent, compassionate, caring, an incredible doctor."

"And now?" Zimmerman frowned.

"About the same," Dax replied. "He's grown up some but other than that . . ."

"What about his family life?"

Dax hesitated. "You mean his relationship with his father or . . ."

"Yes."

Dax paused. "Well, they don't always see eye to eye but things have gotten better between them lately."

"So there's some tension there?"

Dax smiled and leaned forward slightly. "What child always gets along with their parents?"

"I see. How about your relationship?"

Dax shook her head. "If you're looking for problems there, you aren't going to find many. We have our share of disagreements but, then again, what couple doesn't? We've always been completely honest with each other. But we're both a little bull headed at times."

Zimmerman nodded and frowned slightly. "Commander, if I may say so, I'm not looking for a saint here. Every person has faults and if the template is going to be convincing, he has to have something wrong with him."

Dax laughed. "I know. But if you're looking for an unbiased opinion, you aren't going to find one here."

Zimmerman sighed and nodded. "Alright. I was wondering if he has any personal journals I could look through to help with this."

Dax nodded. "He has his medical school journals, I suppose. Will those do?"

"Those would be fine. Would you mind bringing them here?"

"Of course not," Dax smiled. "I'll go get them and bring them back before I report back to Ops."

"Thank you commander."

Chapter 2

"Bashir to Dax."

"Go ahead."

"Jadzia, can you report to the infirmary?"

Dax glanced up, mildly surprised. Julian didn't usually pull her away from her work unless it was necessary and, if he was calling her to the infirmary, he usually didn't ask. Such was the nature of their relationship. Work was work and nothing interfered with that. In theory. "I'll be right there. Dax out." She got up and headed for the lift.

A few moments later, she was striding into his office. "Julian what's wrong?"

"We need to talk," he said softly, gently extending his hands to hers.

Dax's eyes widened. "What about?"

Julian glanced down for a moment, wondering where to start. He glanced back up just as Jabara appeared in the doorway. "Doctor, you're needed in the main infirmary." Julian sighed and turned to Dax. "Don't move," he said and rushed out. Dax followed. He was attending to a technician who had received some burns on the job. "Does this have anything to do with lending Zimmerman your medschool diaries?" she asked, watching him work.

His head snapped up as the regenerator he had been holding clattered to the floor. "What?"

Dax stepped back, surprised. "My interview was with him this morning. He asked if there were any personal journals you had that he could look through. I gave him your med school journals. Why? What's wrong?"

Julian picked the regenerator up and began working again. "Nothing. It's just I wished you would have asked me first."

Dax smiled. "I'm sorry," she apologized. "I'll go get them back. I'm sure he'll understand."

Julian glanced up in relief. "Thank you love. Um, could you bring them back here when you get them? There's still something I'd like to talk to you about."

"Of course. I'll be back in a bit." Dax smiled and left.

*******

"Doctor Zimmerman? Can I have a word with you?" Dax peered in the door to his temporary office.

"Of course Commander." The little man looked infinitely smug, which confused Dax to no end. "Have a seat."

"Actually, I just came for Julian's medschool journals." She smiled sheepishly. "He's a bit private about these things."

"As he should be," Zimmerman sneered. "And stop playing games with me Commander. I know all about it."

"All about what?" she asked, confused.

"Your husband's genetic background," he sighed. He saw a look of confusion cross Dax's face. "Wait a minute," he said softly. A smile spread across his face. "You don't know, do you?"

"Know what?" Dax asked warily.

"Your husband is genetically engineered," Zimmerman sneered.

Dax's eyes widened in shock. She could hear him saying 'We need to talk,' and the shocked reaction when she told him she had lent the journals to Zimmerman. But still, why wouldn't he have told her. Dax dismissed the idea. "I don't believe you," she said softly. "He would have told me."

"It's all right here Commander. In his own words." Zimmerman handed her a journal. Dax took it from him and began to read. Zimmerman watched in satisfaction as her eyes widened in disbelief. "This can't be," she murmured, staring blankly at the screen. "Why . . .?"

"Perhaps you'd like to amend your earlier statement about your marriage to Dr. Bashir being one based on trust and honesty?" Zimmerman suggested pleasantly. Dax's gaze snapped up to his and her eyes filled with tears. She snatched up the journals and flew out of the room.

*******

Dax darted through the hallways, not knowing where she was going. She just knew she had to get away from Zimmerman. "All lies," she whispered tearfully. "He . . . Zimmerman can't be telling the truth." She sank against a wall, gasping for air. She glanced around and realized she was near their quarters. Dax strode the final few meters and slipped inside gratefully. She remembered Julian's request for her to bring the journals back to the infirmary and his insistence that they talk. Dax picked up one of the journals she had dropped on the coffee table and scanned through it. She felt her stomach sink as she found more and more references to what happened. There was no questioning he wasn't happy with what had happened but that still didn't placate the sick feeling at the pit of her stomach. Why didn't he tell me?' She slammed the padd back onto the table and gazed up at the ceiling in misery. I need time away. I need to think.' She strode over to a drawer and pulled out a fresh padd. She quickly scrawled a note on the padd and set it on the table. She tossed her commbadge into the bedroom and walked out.

*******

Julian shifted uncomfortably in his desk chair. 'Jadzia should have been back by now,' he thought unhappily. "Computer, location of Lieutenant Commander Dax."

"Lieutenant Commander Dax is in habitat ring, section 4A."

Julian's frown deepened. Why is she in our quarters. I asked her to head back here. Oh, well.' "Bashir to Dax." He waited a moment for a response but there was none. "Bashir to Dax," he repeated. Still no response. "Bashir to O'Brien."

"Go ahead."

"Dammit," Julian murmured. He had hopped the comm systems were down.

"Begging your pardon sir?" O'Brien sounded confused. Julian felt his cheeks heat up as he realized the chief must be in Ops and everyone would have just heard him cursing, very unregulation. "Uh, sorry Chief. I had been hoping the comm systems are down. I can't get a hold of Dax."

"I thought she was in the infirmary doctor," Kira broke in.

"Ah, she was but she, ah, had something to attend to. The computer reports she's in our quarters but I can't seem to reach her." He felt a prickle of alarm. "I'd better check to make sure she's okay."

"Alright. O'Brien out." Julian heard the connection cut and he rushed out of the infirmary, tossing instructions over his shoulder to hold down the fort.

*******

"Jadzia?" he called, glancing around her quarters. He strode into the bedroom and came out, frowning, holding her commbadge. "Bashir to O'Brien."

"Did you find her Julian?"

"No. All I found was her commbadge lying on the floor in our bedroom." Julian glanced around the living room. He spotted his journals lying on the coffee table and frowned. "She was here though." He surveyed the room looking for anything that was out of place. His gaze landed on a padd on the table. "She left a note," he said picking it up. He felt himself pale as he read it. "Oh, my god," he whispered.

"Julian?" O'Brien didn't miss the horror in the young doctor's voice. "What is it?"

"Ah, it's nothing Chief. I'll get back to you in a moment." Julian severed the connection before O'Brien had a chance to respond. He dropped his head into his hands in misery. 'Dear God, what am I going to do?' He glanced miserably at the message again.

*Julian-
I think I know what you wanted to talk about earlier. When I went to get your journals from Zimmerman, he told me about your genetic history,' as he put it, showed me a journal entry . . . And then asked if I wanted to amend my statement I had made during our interview about how our marriage is based on honesty and trust.

I need time to think, Julian. I'm sorry if this is hurting you but I need to sort things out right now. Please pick Gloria up from the sitters.

-Jadzia*

Julian pushed the padd away and stared off. "Computer, search for Commander Dax's life signs and alert me when you've found her." The computer chirped in compliance and Julian walked out.

*******

"Julian! What's wrong?" Michael Bashir studied his son critically.

"Zimmerman found out," Julian muttered.

"Oh, my god. How, what did he say?"

"I don't know," Julian murmured. "I haven't talked to him. He's been to busy destroying my marriage."

Michael furrowed his brow in confusion. "What?"

Julian related what happened and sank down into a chair. "I found a note when I got to our quarters. She said she needs time to think."

Michael sighed. "Julian, I'm sorry. I don't know what else to say."

"That's alright. I can pretty much pick this out a mile away. I screwed up again." Julian sighed.

"Actually, that didn't even cross my mind," Michael frowned.

"But it's true," Julian pointed out. "I should have told her."

Michael sighed. "Yes, you should have. But you didn't. So now you have to find her and work things out. Be honest with her, Julian. It's the only way you're going to work things out."

Julian glanced at him and nodded. "I know. I know. I have the computer searching for her life signs . . ." His father started to laugh. "What?" Julian frowned, not in the mood for his father's strange sense of humor.

"Don't let the computer do your work for you," Michael sighed. "Go LOOK for her. Think where she would go on the station and start looking." He smiled slightly. "You may know a lot about medicine, son, but you still have a lot to learn about women."

"Obviously," Julian muttered, standing up. "Alright. I . . ."

"Sisko to Bashir." Julian's head snapped up. The Captain sounded like he was just barely containing his fury. "Dear god," Julian whispered, feeling the blood drain from his face. Michael stood up, concerned. "Bashir here," Julian replied, glancing at his father.

"Report to my office immediately," Sisko all but growled.

Julian closed his eyes and swallowed. "Yes, sir," he said softly. He heard the connection close and felt a hand rest on his shoulder. "Son?" Julian glanced at Michael. "I'll come," he said. "I'm responsible for this after all."

"No," Julian murmured. "No, I've got to face this alone." He offered a smile to Michael. "Thank you, though." Michael nodded slowly and Julian walked from the office.

Chapter 3

Julian practically slunk into Ops. Things were deathly still. He could feel everyone's eyes on him as he walked up the stairs to Sisko's office. At the top, he took a deep breath, squared his shoulders and keyed the release. The doors slid open to reveal Sisko sitting at his desk, kneading his baseball. Julian walked in slowly. "You wanted to see me sir?" he asked as the doors slid shut.

*******

O'Brien stared at the doors, mildly stunned. Everyone in Ops had heard Sisko's outburst when Zimmerman had shown up to speak with him but no one knew what to think about it. Until Dr. Bashir had walked into Ops with an air of defeat hanging about him. O'Brien felt keenly for the young doctor. Truth be told, he didn't give a damn about whatever genetic enhancements had been done. Julian Bashir was one of his best friends and Miles knew that no matter what anyone said, he was a good man. However, there were regulations that Sisko couldn't ignore.

O'Brien shot a glance at Kira, who looked stunned. He slid over to her post. "What do you think is going to happen?" she asked.

O'Brien blew his breath out between his teeth. "I can't say. Technically it's illegal for anyone who's been genetically engineered to serve in Star Fleet. But they might go easy on him because of all the good he's done here. The laws against genetic engineering are a firewall of sorts to prevent a repeat of the Eugenic Wars and Kahn Signh. But . . . ." A few pieces from earlier fell into place. "Bloody hell."

"What?" Kira murmured.

"His calls about Dax. You don't suppose he never told her, do you?"

Kira's eyes widened. "Even he wouldn't be that stupid."

*******

"Explain this doctor!" Sisko glared across the desk at the young man standing at attention.

"I'm not sure what's left to explain sir," Julian replied, staring straight ahead, academy fashion.

"Don't, doctor. Need I remind you that your career is on the line here?"

"No, sir, you don't, sir." Julian didn't flinch. Right then, his career was the last thing on his mind.

Sisko sighed and softened his tone. "Julian, I need to hear this from you. I can't make a decision about this until I hear your side of things."

Julian glanced at his commanding officer for the first time since entering. "I don't know what more you need sir."

Sisko glanced down at his desk. "Julian, I've already spoken with Necheyev."

"What?!" Julian couldn't hide his shock. "Sir . . ."

"I was speaking with her when Zimmerman barged in," Sisko said by way of explanation. "She and I have talked extensively about this. We're willing to let you keep your commission."

Julian's jaw dropped. He might have expected this from Sisko but Alyana "The Baracudda" Necheyev? Never. "Sir?" he managed to choke out.

"Well, as Necheyev pointed out, you might not have been aware of the restrictions when you applied and, since there is no question on the application that asks applicants of their genetic background, a rather large discrepancy in Star Fleet policy. Well, for all we know, half the fleet has questionable backgrounds." Sisko studied the young doctor's reactions with interest. He looked shocked to say the least. "Necheyev will see to these changes but we're willing to overlook this for now."

"For now?" Julian echoed. So far, the reasoning had sounded like Sisko's idea. He braced himself for Necheyev's counter measures.

"Well, needless to say, Star Fleet wants to know exactly what happened, where, who, etc. And you'll be put on probation' for a bit, at my discretion." Sisko saw the corners of Julian's mouth turn up at that. Sisko wanted to return the smile but he wanted to make sure Bashir understood how serious this was. "Doctor, I want to make sure you understand what I mean by that. If, for an instant, I detect any sort of misconduct, you're commission will be revoked."

Julian sobered up and nodded. "Yes, sir."

Sisko nodded. "Dismissed Doctor."

Julian turned and started to walk out. "Sir, what about Michael?"

Sisko glanced up, trying desperately to keep the shock off his face. He knew the two of them were getting along better but he hadn't expected Bashir to ask. "Well, seeing as we aren't going to be pressing charges, I don't see how this will affect him." He saw a mix of relief and anger cross the doctor's face as he nodded and walked out.

*******

Julian stepped out into Ops and saw everyone's head turn towards their work. He raised an eyebrow and headed towards the turbolift. He felt they eyes follow his and, when he turned in the lift, he caught O'Brien's eye. His friend smiled sympathetically and nodded. Julian smiled slightly. "Habitat ring," Julian said. The lift started off.

'Okay,' he thought. 'Now, if I was an angry, upset Trill who wanted to hide from her husband, where would I be?' He had narrowed things down to the science lab, the holosuites, the lower decks, and the O'Brien's by the time he reached the their quarters.

*******

Dax sat in the quiet of the Bajoran temple, thinking. She usually didn't come here but Kira had always said several people came just to think or meditate and that the monks were very tolerant. She gazed around the dimly lit room she was in and sighed. Since arriving, her mind had been running in circles, trying to figure out what to do. She was upset, furious really. She couldn't believe he hadn't told her about this. It wasn't the enhancements themselves (although, subconsciously they posed some concern to her) but the fact that he never told her. She had literally given up everything for him and he hadn't even come close to being honest with her. Dax sighed again and was about to give up when a Bajoran monk entered. "Commander, I couldn't help but notice that you've been here for several hours."

Dax glanced around. "I'm sorry. Am I in the way?"

"No, not at all. But it leads one to believe that you're greatly troubled." The elderly monk sat across from her.

Dax glanced down, wondering where to begin. "It's just," she faltered. "My husband and I, we . . we've always said that we based our relationship on trust and honesty and I've found out he hasn't been completely honest with me."

"He's been seeing another woman?" the monk asked, sympathetically.

"No," Dax murmured.

"Another man?"

"No," Dax smiled. "Although that would be a shock."

"He no longer is in love with you?"

"NO!" Dax gasped, horror filling her at that thought.

"He was abducted by aliens as a child?"

"Huh?" Dax asked, confused.

"I'm sorry," the monk smiled. "I'm a scholar-historian. It's a bit of ancient Terran humor."

"Oh," Dax murmured. "No."

"He never loved you?"

"No," Dax sighed. "No. He wasn't truthful about who he is."

"Who else could he be but who he is?" The monk studied the Trill.

Dax felt her cheeks heat up. "It's not really what he lied about," she said desperately. "It's the fact that he lied in the first place."

"He covered up who he was by telling deliberate lies?"

"No. But he never told me . . . ." Dax sighed. It wasn't her story to tell.

"That he was genetically engineered?"

Dax's head snapped up. "What?" she gasped. "You? . . ."

"My child, everyone knows who your husband is."

"But how do you know about that? No one knew until today." Dax's eyes widened as she realized the monk had been leading her on.

"I have run into your husband several times in the course of duty. He has a very unique pagh. Very noble. Very troubled."

Dax studied the monk. "But . . . I still . . ."

"You're still upset because he didn't tell you. But, my child, is the fact that he never _told_ you or is it the _fact_ he never told you what bothers you the most?"

Dax's eyes widened.

Chapter 4

Julian emerged onto the Promenade. He had already checked a few friends quarters and her lab to no avail. Julian strode over to Quark's and hailed the Ferengi. "Quark! Have you seen Jadzia?"

"Sorry, doctor," Quark said. "I'm afraid the Commander hasn't graced this establishment with her presence today."

Julian smiled slightly and nodded. "Thanks anyways," he sighed. He headed out and was about to head towards the lift when his eye caught the temple. Or, to be exact, Jadzia rushing out of it. "Gods," he murmured. He darted over. "Jadzia!"

Dax whirled at the sound of his voice and she froze. She tossed a glance back over her shoulder at the temple and slid back inside.

Julian frowned at her reaction and went after her. "Jadzia," he called softly, catching angry glances from Bajoran worshipers. He sent apologetic looks to them and walked deeper into the temple. He moved among the lines, into different rooms but didn't see her. How can she just disappear like that?' he thought. He came into the last room and found it full off hooded worshipers. He realized that if she would be anywhere, this would be the easiest place to hide. However, the people present made it clear that this was a very spiritual moment and Julian couldn't, in good conscious, interrupt. He backed up and leaned against the wall, feeling his resolve crack. She had made it clear she didn't want to speak with him. He felt a tear slide down his cheek as he sank to the floor in defeat.

Dax watched from the shadows. She wanted to rush over and assure him that everything was going to be alright but she couldn't move. Dax saw a motion off to her right and saw the elderly monk she had been speaking to catch her eye. Dax felt her heart seize and she stepped out of the shadows. "Julian?" she whispered, walking over slowly. His head snapped up in surprise and Dax could clearly see the pain in his dark eyes. Dax sat down in front of him. "Julian, we need to talk."

He nodded slowly. "I know. That's why I've been looking for you. I needed for you to understand why." Dax nodded and glanced down. "Maybe we should go somewhere more private," he said softly.

Dax glanced up and looked around. "There's a room back this way," she said softly. Julian nodded and stood up. Dax gently took his hand in hers and headed back, Julian following closely. Dax walked in and turned to face him. "Why?" she said. "Why didn't you tell me? Or better yet, did it even occur to you what effect this might have on our children?"

Julian stiffened slightly. "Yes," he said quietly. "I did. And I checked." He saw her eyes widen and he felt himself flush. "Jadzia," he whispered, reaching out for her.

Dax pulled back. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because of what just happened today," he said, his dark eyes flashing. "Jadzia, you have to understand. I wanted to tell you. Ever time I was going to, something always came up. And the rest of the time, well, I've been living with this since I was eight, consciously since I was eighteen. I don't think about it daily." He began to pace. "Plus, I guess I was scared. I couldn't stand it if you left me."

"Where would I go?" she said. "Julian, I've given up everything because I love you, because I wanted to be with you. Why didn't you trust me enough to tell me?"

"Because other people I loved have rejected me." He turned to face her and sighed. He motioned for her to sit down and he sat across from her. "Jadzia," he said, taking her hands in his. "Why do you think my father and I never got along?" He saw a frown cross her features, creasing her brow. "Jadzia, it was his idea to take me to Adigeon Prime. My mother wouldn't have any part of it. That's why she left him, and me." He pulled a thick, old fashioned envelope out and handed it to her. "She sent these letters to me when I was eighteen. That's how I found out about it." He took a deep breath. "Michael rejected the first son he had and decided to create a new one." He saw her eyes widen in sympathy. "My mother wouldn't have anything to do with that so she rejected the son she never knew. And even after the hundreds of credits it must have cost him, Michael still wasn't satisfied. You know about that. When I got those letters, I confronted him. We had a huge fight. He disowned me and I left. I went to live with Akmed until I could apply to the academy." Julian glanced down at their hands. "Things were good there for a while. I met Palis and you know about that. But the real reason she broke off the engagement was her father found out and, in order to spite me, I suppose, for not taking him up on his offer to stay in Paris, he told Palis. She broke things off the second she found out." Julian swallowed, trying to fight back tears. "That was another huge fight and a lot of things were said, mostly by her." He glanced back up at her. "I took this post to get as far away from Earth as possible. As far as we go," Julian said, taking a breath, "things between us moved so quickly. And I didn't want to lose you." His hands tightened on hers. "Every time I thought about telling you, I remembered my fight with Palis and I knew I couldn't stand a repeat. I love you so much," he said, gently brushing a hand over her cheek, "and I was scared. I know it's no excuse but it's the truth." His eyes scanned her face, searching for any sign of acceptance.

Dax sighed and gazed at him. "Julian, I understand and accept this. I do. But," she saw his face fall, "I, oh, I don't know. I guess I'm still hurt. I mean, I'm not Palis. Plus, well, like I said earlier, where would I run to?" she smiled slightly, trying to cheer him up a bit. She truly hated seeing him this miserable and it nearly broke her heart to be the cause of it. But there were still things they had to work through. She saw him take a deep breath and nod. "I am sorry," he whispered, gently brushing his hand over hers. Dax nodded and took a deep breath. "Is there . . is there anything you need to know?" he asked hastily. "About what happened or . . ."

Dax studied him for a moment and shook her head. "No. Not now at least. Maybe later but . . ." Julian nodded. "Alright," he said softly. Julian smiled slightly and glanced down at their hands again. "We should go," he said softly. "I need to pick up Gloria." He glanced up at Jadzia and saw her smile just slightly. He stood and helped her up also. Dax gently leaned against him in a gently hug. Julian returned it, holding her close for a moment. After a moment, he pulled back. Jadzia gently gave his hand a squeeze and they walked out of the temple. They received a few looks from the Bajoran worshipers but were mostly ignored. Outside, Dax stopped him. "If you want, you can head back to the infirmary. After all, Wilkes is back on earth." Julian shook his head. Wilkes had been called home soon after the attack due to a family emergency. "No, I don't think I can work right now. I told Jabara to page me if she needs me and I don't feel like doing paperwork." He glanced at her. "Unless you'd rather I would. . . ."

"No," Dax said. "No, that's okay." He nodded and they walked off in silence. Dax could feel the tension still between them. Neither was quite sure where they stood right then. They arrived at the babysitters and Julian tapped the controls. The bright eyed Bajoran woman answered. "Hello," she smiled. "Come in."

Dax smiled as Julian motioned for her to enter. She walked in, glancing around. "Gloria?"

"Mama!" The little girl toddled out and her grin broadened. "Papa!"

Dax smiled and scooped her up. Dax couldn't help reflect how much of a 'daddy's little girl' she was. 'Gloria gave her mom a hug and blew' kisses. Jadzia giggled and kissed her daughter. "Hello munchkin." She glanced over her shoulder to Talen. "How was she?"

"Oh, just wonderful," Talen smiled. "She took a nap around 1230 and slept till only 1400 though." Gloria was squirming in her mother's arms and reaching for Julian. Dax unconsciously transferred the little girl to her father.

"That's good," Dax said. "She'll get to sleep better tonight." She glanced at Julian, who was talking with Gloria, walking around the room. She smiled slightly. "Julian?" He turned, his dark eyes glinting. "We'd better go."

"Oh," he smiled, although it was slightly forced. He walked back over. "Thank you, Talen."

"It was no problem. She's a joy to watch. The prophets have blessed her with such a pleasant disposition."

Dax smiled and nodded. "Good bye, Talen. Same time tomorrow?"

"Of course." The two walked out and back to their quarters. Julian set Gloria down inside and she made a beeline for her toys. He smiled and turned to Jadzia. "What do you want for dinner?"

Dax shook her head. "I'm not really hungry Julian."

He frowned. "Did you have any lunch?" he asked softly. Dax hesitated and shook her head. His frown deepened. "Jadzia, you _know_ what I told you about eating."

Dax glared. "Don't start with me Julian. I'm not . . . ."

"Dax, whatever problems we're having, they aren't to interfere with our jobs. I told you, as your physician, to eat at least three meals a day. Please," he said softly, "just do what I ask in that respect."

Dax lowered her gaze. "I'm sorry Julian. You're right." She took a deep breath and glanced at him. "Alright. Seeing as I didn't eat lunch, how about Aubergine stew and a small dish of steamed Azna."

Julian managed to avoid making a face. "Coming right up," he murmured, shaking his head. "Computer, two orders of Aubergine stew and one small dish of steamed Azna."

Dax laughed at his not-so-carefully concealed disgust at her like for Azna and scooped Gloria up. "How about ravioli for Gloria?" Dax said softly. Gloria immediately began making smacking noises. Dax smiled and sat her in her chair as Julian produced the plates. Julian sat down next to Gloria and began feeding her just as the door chimed. He glanced at Dax who called out "Come in."

The door slid open to reveal a mildly shocked Ambassador Bashir standing there. "Jadzia," he smiled. "Hello." He stepped in, looking a bit hesitant. Julian glanced at Dax, who was staring at her food. "Michael," Julian said. "What can we do for you?"

"I, ah, was wondering how things went with Captain Sisko."

Dax's head snapped up and she stared at Julian. "The Captain knows?"

Julian nodded slowly. "It appears Zimmerman was very busy today. Sisko had been talking with Necheyev when Zimmerman broke in."

Both Michael and Dax paled. "The Blond Bombshell?" Michael choked out.

"You didn't tell me this," Dax whispered.

Julian paled slightly. "There wasn't time, if you recall," he said, hoping she'd understand. Dax nodded slowly.

"What happened?" Michael broke in.

"What do you care?" Dax suddenly snapped. She glared at the elder Bashir. "Besides how this will impact your career, I mean."

"Jadzia," Julian said softly, glancing at Michael. 'Please, don't rise to that,' he mentally begged. 'I can't deal with all this at once.'

"I'm only concerned about Julian right now, Jadzia," Michael said softly.

"Yes, I'm sure," Dax muttered.

"Jadzia, please," Julian sighed wearily. "I'm going to be able to keep my commission, so there's no reason for any of this. I'm on probation for awhile but other than that, everything is fine."

Michael looked relieved and he nodded. "Good. Perhaps I'd better go." He nodded in Dax's direction and quickly left.

Dax turned to Julian. "How come you were so calm?" she demanded.

"Because I am completely and totally emotionally drained and I can't fight Michael like that because he'll win." Julian scrubbed his face with his hands. "So, if you wouldn't mind, could we pretend like everything in normal for a bit, at least until Gloria goes to bed?"

Dax studied him carefully and nodded. "Fine. So," Dax blew on a spoonful of stew, "how was your day?" Julian glanced at her in exasperation. "What? You said pretend like everything was normal."

Julian grunted in frustration and stood up. "I give up. I'm not going to get into a fight like this with you Dax. I've been to hell and back several times today and my stomach is so tied up I can't even eat. If you'll excuse me." He picked his bowl up and quickly set it in the replicator and walked into the bedroom.

Dax sighed in frustration and turned back to Gloria, who was hungrily smacking her lips and looking rather annoyed that no one was feeding her. Dax pulled the dish over and began feeding her. As she was finishing, Gloria began to nod off. Dax cleaned her up, changed her and put her to bed. By the time she was finished, her dinner was cold. Dax sighed and set the dishes in the replicator and tapped the console. They disappeared in a spray of energy. She walked into the bedroom and found Julian stretched out on the bed, rolling his wedding band around his hand, gazing at it. "Julian? What are you doing?"

He glanced over at her and sighed. "Nothing Jadzia. Just thinking." He slipped the band back on his finger and sat up. "I take it Gloria's asleep."

Dax nodded. "What were you thinking about?" she asked, sitting next to him.

Julian gazed up at the ceiling. "I was just wondering if it was worth it," he said softly. Dax felt the blood drain from her face before he continued. "You giving up everything when all I've done is put you through hell." He sighed heavily. "I've hardly been the ideal husband."

Dax gazed at him, feeling horrible. "Julian, believe me, it was worth it. We're just going to have to work through this. Every couple has episodes like this, believe me." She saw a tiny smile lite up his features and she smiled in response. "Now," she said softly, sobering up, "I want to know what you found about if we decide to have other children. Obviously Gloria's fine but . . ."

Julian nodded slowly. "Alright," he said, blowing out a small puff of air. "Well, I basically asked the computer to run an analysis of possible combinations of our DNA and alert me to any potential problems." They talked long into the night, Dax asking questions about everything from what he remembered from beforehand to what exactly they did and Julian trying his best to answer them.

Chapter 5

Dax stirred early the next morning and glanced at Julian. She felt a prick of uncertainty and curiosity and, admittedly, excitement. This was, after all, something completely new to Dax and the symbiont was infinitely curious about it while Jadzia was quite unnerved. All in all, she was in a very odd mood. It wasn't often that her emotions differed from Dax's. She showered and dressed quietly, deciding to let him sleep till he absolutely had to get up. Dax padded into the living room, her boots in one hand and sat down on the couch to put them on. She had just finished when she heard Gloria wake up, singing to herself. She smiled and walked in. "Good morning Glorita," she smiled, lifting the little girl up. Gloria smiled and chattered to her mother as Dax changed her and fed her breakfast. She had just finished cleaning up when she heard Julian stir in the next room. "Gloria, where's Papa?" she said, smiling.

"Papa papa," Gloria walked into the bedroom. "Papaaaah," Dax heard her crow and she cracked up. She heard Julian mumble something in response and he walked out, carrying the toddler. "Your idea?" he asked, smiling.

Dax accepted the little girl and smiled. "I just sent her looking. You had to get up."

"Humph," Julian murmured, getting a cup of coffee from the replicator. "That's the last time I let you keep me up till 3 a.m."

"Talking," Dax said, walking into Gloria's room to get her dressed. She heard Julian choke on his coffee in the main room and grinned.

Shock value is a wonderful thing,' she decided. 'For the most part.' She heard his coughing subside and called out, "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, fine," came the strained response. "Scalding coffee is good for the lungs." Dax giggled as she finished dressing Gloria. Gloria joined in her mother's laughter as they walked out. Julian was scowling at them but his dark eyes were smiling. Dax knew he appreciated the joke but not the effect of laughing while drinking coffee. "I've got to get to work," Dax said, picking up Gloria's bag. "I promised Chief O'Brien that I'd help him with some work in the cargo bays."

"Alright," Julian said. "Just remember to eat, hmm?"

"Yes, sir," she said, walking out.

*******

"Morning Chief," Dax called, walking in. O'Brien glanced up and smiled. "Dax, glad you could make it. I really appreciate this."

"It's no problem," she smiled. "Why don't we get to work." They began working on some of the sensors for the bay, trying to get them up to spec. After several minutes of working in silence, O'Brien spoke up. "The whole station is buzzing about yesterday. Rumor has it that Zimmerman's been ordered to keep quiet about things."

Dax nodded. "Yeah, I figured as much."

O'Brien glanced at her. "How long have you known?" he asked.

Dax reached up to adjust her lighting. "Since yesterday."

"What?!" O'Brien sat up, stunned. "You mean he didn't tell you until . . ."

"Until Zimmerman had already told me. Although I think he was planning on it before that." Dax shifted uncomfortably.

O'Brien hesitated. "Are the two of you okay?" he asked. "I mean, if I hadn't told Keiko about something like that . . . ."

Dax hesitated, remembering the whole affair. "We'll be alright. We need to work things out yet but things should calm down in a bit."

O'Brien nodded and placed an affectionate hand on her shoulder. "Good. Now, what do you say we work on the power relays?"

The morning work crews had started to filter in and the noise in the bay had grown considerably. Dax and O'Brien were halfway across the hanger when they heard shouting coming from one corner. "What the hell," O'Brien muttered. "What's going on?" He peered around a Bajoran worker and froze. "Bloody hell. NO! Don't start that mover up! It needs to be . . . ."

The sound of the engine filled the bay and, when the worker operating it started it moving, it lurched away, its path erratic.

"Fixed," O'Brien cried. "Everyone OUT!" He started shoving people towards the door, trying to get as many out as possible. "Get people out of here. The more people in here, the greater the chance of injuries!" Dax nodded and began herding people to the door. Most of the crews had seen what had happened and were already moving. Dax reached a group in the corner of the bay and motioned them towards the door. "Come on, let's go!" The crew started to clean up. "No, drop what you're doing and go. Just be careful to give the mover a wide . . . ." his periphery vision caught sight of the mover heading for Jadzia and he shouted, "DAX! LOOK OUT!"

Dax spun around and saw the mover heading towards her. She darted out of the way and it changed direction, knocking some equipment over. Dax felt something slam into her and she pitched forward. Dax grunted as she hit the floor. Jadzia peered over her shoulder to see what hit her and saw a piece of metal trapping her ankle. "Damn," she hissed. She heard a loud roar off to her left and spun around. She saw the mover heading straight for her. "CHIEF!"

O'Brien spun to see Dax trapped by a piece of piping and the mover heading for her. "DAX!" he shouted, starting across the bay. He took maybe ten steps before the impossible happened. A piece of plating that had been loosed from the mover's erratic path fell between it and Dax. The mover hit it and came to a stop, knocking the sheet on top of Jadzia. Dead silence followed. After a moment, O'Brien found his voice. "Dax!" He darted over and turned the mover off before kneeling next to her. "Dax, can you hear me?" Dax groaned and nodded. "Good. O'Brien to Bashir."

"Bashir here Chief."

"Report to cargo bay six. There's been another incident with the mover."

"How many casualties?"

O'Brien glanced around the bay and his eyes widened. "One. But you might want to hurry."

"Severely injured?" O'Brien could hear the background sounds of the Promenade, indicating that Bashir was on his way. "Julian," O'Brien said, his voice turning gentle. "Dax was the one who was injured." There was dead silence on the other side of the comm. "Julian?" O'Brien whirled at the sound of a transporter beam filling the air. Bashir materialized and darted over. "Oh, god. Jadzia? Can you hear me?" he asked, dropping next to her. He surveyed the situation quickly. He glanced down at her. "Jadzia?"

"I . . . I'm here . Julian." She managed to glance up at him. "I . . can't breath ver . . y well though."

Julian's gaze fell on the piece of metal resting on her abdomen. "Alright. Don't worry. We'll have you out in no time. You just concentrate on staying conscious." He shifted his equilibrium and began to try and lift the piece of metal.

"Julian, you're never going . . . to . . be able . . ." O'Brien watched in shock as Bashir managed to lift the piece enough to lessen the pressure on Dax.

"Chief, get her out of there," he managed to gasp. "Just be careful how you move her."

O'Brien started to pull Dax out from underneath and was joined by a few other of the workers who managed to lift the piping on her foot off and another helped him move Dax carefully. Julian let the sheet drop once it was apparent that she was free. Gasping for air, he pulled himself over next to her. "How on earth did you manage that?" O'Brien gaped.

"Adrenaline is an amazing thing," Julian panted, scanning her.

"Adrenaline nothing," Miles scoffed softly, staring at the young doctor.

Julian managed to spare him a raised eyebrow. "You honestly think I could have lifted that on my own?" He injected a hypo into her and began tending to broken ribs. The eyebrow dropped. "I'm flattered. But there's not a chance in hell I could have lifted that. Gifts' or no gifts.' " He continued working on Dax, his breathing completely normal. He tapped his commbadge. "Bashir to Ops. Emergency Medical transport. Lock onto my signal and beam myself and Commander Dax to the infirmary."

"Aye doctor." The two vanished in a shimmer of energy, leaving a stunned O'Brien behind.

*******

Bashir studied the readouts and decided that everything was good enough for him. Which meant it was perfect. "How are you feeling?" he asked softly.

"Like a ton of metal dropped on top of me," Dax groaned. She saw a tiny smile cross his lips. "What?"

"Actually, it was more like five hundred pounds." Julian smiled and kissed her forehead.

"And you managed to lift that?" she murmured, studying him.

Julian shrugged. "Barely enough for them to slide you out."

"Still," Dax murmured, glancing away. She felt a gentle hand brush her cheek. "That doesn't scare you, does it?" he asked softly, his eyes searching hers.

"Well, a bit," she admitted. She saw a look of hurt cross his features and she gently reached for his hand. "Well," she said softly. "This is new for me, Julian. I don't know many people who can lift that much. At least lift that much and not die of exhaustion afterwards." She saw a tiny smile cross his features. Dax sighed and glanced up at the ceiling. "I suppose this means I have another week of bed rest," she grumbled.

Julian laughed and kissed her forehead. "Only if you want. Most of the injuries were superficial. A few broken ribs and your ankle was broken but they're mended. You're going to be awfully sore though."

"Hmm. That's what you're for," she smiled. Julian grinned and rested his forehead briefly against hers. "Thanks," he smiled. He kissed her and straightened up. "I've got to go. I'll be back."

"I know," Dax said softly. Julian smiled tenderly and slipped away.

Chapter 6

Dax rested on the couch in their quarters that afternoon, reading a journal. Gloria was playing with some toys in between the couch and coffee table. She started to stand up and Jadzia reached out reflexively to protect the little girl from hitting her head on the table. Gloria turned her curly head to her mom and grinned cheerfully. "Cky," she grinned, holding up a cookie teething ring. Dax smiled. "That's right," she said. "Cookie." Gloria chewed on it happily. Dax smiled in amusement and turned back to her journal.

"Hello," Julian called as he walked in the door.

"Papa!" Gloria forgot all about her cookie and toddled over. Julian smiled and scooped her up. "Hello Glorita," he grinned. He walked over to the couch. "Were you good for your mom?"

Gloria paused and then, grinning, shook her head. Jadzia broke out laughing as Julian mimicked her. "She was fine," Dax said. "The only hard part was getting her into the crib."

Julian smiled affectionately at Jadzia. "I'm sorry," he said. He sank down at the end of the couch and sat Gloria on his lap. "How're you feeling?"

"I'll be alright," she said as Gloria scrambled into her mom's lap. Dax smiled and gave her a protective hug. She glanced at Julian and smiled. "How was work?"

"Alright," he said softly, a strange look entering his eyes.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

Julian shook his head sadly. "Never mind. It's nothing." Dax gazed at him and glanced down. She knew her husband well enough to recognize the look in his eyes. She felt it too. Things were still very distant between them and neither quite knew what to do about it. Julian glanced away and sighed softly. "What do you want for dinner?"

Dax glanced down at Gloria's head. "Whatever. I'm starved."

Julian smiled and walked over to program it. "So's Gloria?" Dax grinned. "Aren't you muchkin?"

Gloria smiled and made smacking noises in response. Both parents broke out laughing. Julian glanced over his shoulder to find Dax ruffling Gloria's hair. He smiled tenderly and turned back to the replicator as the door chimed. "Come in," he called.

Michael Bashir stepped in and glanced at them. "Hello," he smiled.

Dax glanced up warily. She wasn't sure how to react to him anymore. She saw Julian nod at Michael. "Hello Michael. What can we do for you?"

"I had heard about what happened in the cargo bay," he said, smiling slightly. "I stopped in to see how you were, Dax."

Dax frowned slightly. "I'm fine," she replied curtly. She saw Michael frown in response and she turned her attention to Gloria.

Julian glanced from Dax to Michael and back again. "She's still sore," he said slowly. "And is on medical leave for a few days."

"Well, as long as you're okay," Michael said. He glanced at his son who shrugged. "Would you care to join us for dinner Michael?" Julian asked. He heard Dax turn, probably spearing him with a look of shock or disbelief. He didn't turn.

"Ah, I'd better not," Michael said. "I've got a lot of work to do."

"Alright. I'll see you tomorrow then," Julian said. Michael nodded and walked out.

"What are you meeting with him tomorrow for?" Dax asked.

"We're having lunch," Julian said. He turned away from the replicator.

"I don't know how you can be so calm," she murmured.

"Because I've lived with this almost all my life," he said softly. "And because you were the one who wanted me to make an effort to get along with him." Julian smiled wryly. "If anything, this whole situation has helped."

Dax glanced over her shoulder and sighed. "Alright. I'll bite. Helped who?"

Julian paused and sighed. "Well, in a strange way, us."

Dax frowned angrily. "I don't see it."

"Because it was killing me keeping it from you." He gazed at her sincerely. "Don't you know I wanted to? How could I though. If I told you, if anyone ever found out, you'd be an accessory. I couldn't place that on you. This was _my_ battle Jadzia. I couldn't share it."

"I would have accepted it," she said softly.

Julian smiled and nodded. "I know. But I couldn't do that to you. Now that my background is out in the open, I don't have to keep it from you anymore. It's a relief."

Dax nodded slowly. "And everything you said in the temple. . . ?"

"Was one hundred percent sincere," he replied. He glanced at Gloria who was regarding him with large blue eyes over her teething ring. He smiled slightly and glanced at Jadzia. She was regarding him with a similar gaze. Julian struggled not to laugh. They're so alike,' he thought fondly.

Dax saw him smiling and glanced down at Gloria, who was studying him also. Gloria tilted her head up and glanced at Dax. Julian cracked up. Both of them looked at him again, which caused him to laugh harder. Dax felt a smile cross her lips and she shook her head. "Alright," she chided. Julian grinned and slowly shook his head. "I'm sorry. It's just the two of you . . ." She saw his eyes light up happily. "What about dinner?" she grinned.

"Right," he said. He quickly set the table as Dax set Gloria in his chair. Dax glanced up and saw him standing at the replicator and smiled. She slid up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist. She felt him start and then relax. Dax stood up on tiptoe and kissed the back of his neck. Julian turned his head, gently taking her hands in his. Dax kissed him tenderly and felt him respond. After a moment, she pulled back and smiled slightly. Julian gently kissed the tip of her nose. "I'm sorry," he whispered.

Dax shook her head. "Forgiven," she replied. He smiled and glanced over her shoulder. Gloria was banging on her tray with her spoon. "Someone's getting restless," he smiled. Dax glanced and grinned, releasing him. Back to normality,' she thought. *******

Julian felt Jadzia curl up next to him later that evening and he smiled. "Hello, what have we here?"

Dax smiled in response and gently kissed the corner of his neck. "I'm allowed to be in a good mood, aren't I?"

"Maybe," he said, setting down the padd he had been reading. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer. "I've missed this," he murmured, slowly working his way down her neck.

"I've only been mad at you for two days," she replied, enjoying the attention he was giving her neck.

"Hmm. And you've were injured for a week before that." He paused. "Speaking of which, you're injured now."

"I'm fine," she replied. "Perhaps a bit stiff but I'll live." She closed her eyes and hummed happily as he continued his way down her neck. "What do you say we go to bed."

" 'M not tired," he replied petulantly. Dax laughed. "Well, we could always stay up till 3 a.m. again." She saw a tiny smile cross his features and smiled. "What?"

"Nothing," he said, grinning.

"Don't think you could make it till then?" Dax teased.

Julian regarded her seriously. "Actually, I wouldn't have a problem with it."

Dax leaned back, regarding him amusedly. "You know that for a fact?"

"I've gone days without sleep," he said softly. "Yes."

"I guess I'm just going to have to get to know you all over again," Dax said softly. She saw him smile slightly. "Julian!"

He laughed and pulled her close. "Well," he murmured. "You can hardly blame me."

Jadzia laughed and kissed him, with all intention of it being a quick kiss but ended up pressing him back against the couch.

*******

Dax stirred late the next morning, somewhat grateful she had the day off. She rolled onto her back and glanced into the bathroom where she could see Julian getting ready. "Morning," she called softly.

Julian turned and smiled. "Morning. I was beginning to wonder if you'd sleep the day away."

Dax glanced at the chronometer and shook her head. "It's only 0800." She grinned. "I mean, I only got five hours of sleep."

Julian tossed her an amused look. "And you were worried about me," he scoffed, turning back to the mirror. He saw a pillow flying at him out of the corner of his eye and deftly caught it. "Nice try," he smiled.

Dax frowned and threw another one. He deflected it again. "I think I liked you better before all this happened," she pouted.

Julian laughed and walked out of the bathroom. He handed her the pillows as he gently kissed her. "That's not what you said Oomph." The pillow slammed into the corner of his head. "Last night," he tossed, laughing as he walked into the main room. Dax tossed the pillow after him.

*******

Dax walked through the Promenade, carrying Gloria. It was rare that she got the chance to spend time with her, especially on the Promenade. Keiko had been right. It was difficult raising a child on the station. Gloria was chattering excitedly, pointing out everything to Jadzia. Dax smiled and nodded, occasionally responding out loud. Dax glanced at the chronometer as she and Gloria approached the Replimat. "How about lunch?" Dax asked. Gloria cheerfully began smacking her lips. Dax laughed and ordered food for them and sat Gloria in a chair.

"May I join you?"

Dax's head snapped up and she found herself facing Michael Bashir. She felt her mind shouting NO!' but for some reason she said, "I suppose."

Michael sat down and smiled at Gloria. "Hello little one," he said.

"Hi," she grinned. Dax scooped some lunch into her mouth and she started chewing.

"Dax, I was wondering if we could talk," Michael said softly.

"What about?" Dax asked, concentrating on Gloria.

"About what happened the other night," Michael said slowly.

Dax glanced at him. "I don't want any rationales or explanations. In my opinion, what you did is unforgivable. Had I known earlier what had happened, I would have never asked Julian to try and work things out between the two of you."

Michael bristled. "Commander, you don't know what you're talking about here."

"Yes I do," she snapped. "I've been a parent several times. Plus," Dax glanced at Gloria and lowered her voice slightly. "Plus, Julian told me everything and I still don't think you had any reason . . . ."

"Did he tell you that his mother and I tried everything we could?" Michael Bashir asked. "That we went to every specialist we could find to figure out why he couldn't keep up with his peers?"

"How could he remember those things?" Dax shot back. "He was barely old enough to understand what was really happening."

"Dax, don't you understand that it wasn't an easy decision for me to make."

"That's right, just you," she snapped. "Your wife didn't want to have any part in this because she didn't want to kill her only son at the age of seven!" Michael had paled slightly. Dax glanced around briefly and saw a couple people staring at her oddly. Dax stood up and picked Gloria up and, with a final parting glare, left.

*******

Julian heard shouting coming from the Promenade and glanced up in surprise. He walked over to the door in time to see Jadzia storming off, a very confused Gloria in her arms. Shooting a glance in the direction she had come from, Julian spotted his father sitting in the Replimat, looking stunned. Julian sighed and headed back into his office. He knew it would only inflame things if he went out there now and he really didn't feel like being under public scrutiny. If he knew his father though . . . .

"Julian?"

He should be walking through the door now.' "What can I do for you Michael?"

Michael Bashir shifted his weight, an uncharacteristic show of uncertainty. Julian glanced at him. "Michael? Are you alright?"

"I'm fine. I'm fine." He glanced over his shoulder to the Promenade. "I just had a slight disagreement with your wife."

Julian raised his eyebrows. "'Slight?' I heard the shouting all the way in here."

"Alright, fine. More than slight." Michael sighed and sat down in a chair. "I haven't seen anyone so angry since . . . ." His voice trailed off.

Julian glanced up. "Michael?"

"It's nothing," Michael murmured.

Julian leaned forward. "Since who?" he asked quietly.

Michael hesitated for a moment. "Since your mother left." Julian sat back, stunned. "She didn't want to go through with the procedure. I was insistent. She said that if I even continued to consider it, she'd take you and leave. Instead, I filed for a divorce and received custody because she had no means of supporting herself at the time. She was livid. Just for a moment, Jadzia reminded me of her."

Julian glanced at his desk. He was never comfortable around his father and Michael had never told him what had happened between him and Jasmine before. After a long moment, Julian managed a weak smile. "Well, she does have a temper at times."

Michael nodded, smiling slightly. "That she does." He glanced over his shoulder. "I should go. Let you get back to work."

Julian nodded, mildly grateful. He didn't want to deal with this now. Michael stood up and left quickly. Julian stared after him for a moment, pensive and confused. He reached into a desk drawer and pulled out the old photo of him and his mother and gazed at it for a long time.

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