Greetings, reader number ! Thanks for your interest!

My friends,

The following story was written by my good friend, Ghostwriter, in response to a challenge from JetC13. It is a prelude to the sequel that follows herein. Please enjoy both of them.

Renegade

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ALWAYS Written by Ghostwriter Rated: PG

DISCLAIMER: Paramount owns all things Voyager. I'm just borrowing. No copyright infringement is intended.

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When Chakotay finally found Kathryn, alone among the wild decorations still left in the Mess Hall, she sat quietly, watching out the observation window. The room was darkened, save for the starlight, which highlighted her soft features. He hesitated before crossing the room to where she sat. She had that far away look about her, and he didn't wish to intrude upon her thoughts. The feel of the present he had in his hand finally urged him forward. At the sound of his footsteps, Kathryn turned and smiled.

"Hello, stranger," she said softly, How was your trip?"

"Well," he began, pulling up a chair beside her, "The Zantians are certainly a hospitable people. We should have no problem negotiating for supplies. I could do without their three hour greeting and farewell ceremonies, though."

She chuckled, shaking her head. "I guess we'll have to grin and bear it. Their planet is rich in resources - we may wind up being here for a few days."

"Sorry I missed your party," he grinned, handing her the carefully wrapped present. Smiling gently, she took the small package from him, but didn't move to open it. Instead, she gazed at it thoughtfully.

"Thank you, Chakotay." Her voice was a soft whisper.

"You haven't opened it yet," he replied. Her face grew serious as she continued to look at his gift.

"Do you know how old I am?" she asked, turning to look out at the stars again.

"Are you going to make me guess?" She smiled again at his words.

"I turned forty-six today..." her voice trailed off into a whisper. "Forty-six," she repeated, shaking her head. Chakotay remained silent as she worked through her thought. "I guess I'd always imagined things being different by the time I reached this age."

"What, you mean the thought of being stranded 60,000 light years from home never occurred to you?" This time she laughed outright at his comment.

"I thought..." she began after a moment, growing serious once more, "I guess I imagined a comfortable home, a loving husband....a baby..." He saw tears gathering in her eyes. She was taking this birthday pretty hard.

"You're not that old, Kathryn," he assured her softly, "You could still have those things." She looked at him, startled by the depth of his thought. His eyes were filled with all his love - he was hiding nothing from her. What she saw made her heart ache with longing as a little voice in the back of her head kept saying *You can't let that happen* over and over. She took a deep, shuddering breath, finding the courage to look away from him.

"Yes...I could...."

"Kathryn..." His voice was thick with emotion. She closed her eyes, not wanting him to see her torment. She so desperately wanted to reach out to him, to tell him how she felt. The weight on her heart was unbearable. She heard him take a breath, preparing to say something more, but the sound of Tuvok's voice on the comm stopped him.

"Commander Chakotay, please report to the bridge." Chakotay let out his breath in the form of a silent chuckle. He tapped his comm badge.

"I'm on my way, Tuvok," he replied. The tension had been broken. Kathryn looked at him once more, a lopsided grin on her face.

"He does have impeccable timing, doesn't he?" she asked playfully. He stared down at his hands, still smiling. When he looked at her once more, only a hint of the passion he'd expressed was still showing in his dark eyes. The rest was carefully subdued.

May I at least give you a birthday kiss, Kathryn?" he asked gently. She felt her body shiver – he'd never been so bold. *What the hell* she thought to herself, *it is my birthday....* She nodded her consent. Slowly, he leaned forward, their eyes locked onto each other's. She felt him take one of her hands in his. When his face was mere inches from her own, their breath mingling sweetly, he stopped and lifted the back her hand to his lips, kissing it gently, slowly, reverently. His eyes never left hers. She felt a lump forming in her throat, felt tears stinging her eyes, but she couldn't look away from him. When he finished brushing his lips against her hand, he pulled back, still caressing her fingers, and stood up. "Happy birthday," he whispered, letting go of her hand and brushing his fingers lightly under her chin before turning to leave.

She still sat there, shivering from the experience, minutes after he'd gone. She was dazed. She was stunned. She was so deeply in love with him she couldn't think straight. Absently, she turned back toward the observation window and discovered his present still lying there unopened. Her fingers fumbled with the wrapping paper, still shaking from his touch. When at last she'd managed to extract her gift, she held a gold and silver ring accompanied by a handwritten note in her hand. The two precious metals were wrapped around each other in a delicate pattern that remained unchanged around the ring's entire circumference. Its simplicity represented something very profound, and Kathryn felt it all the way to her toes. Opening the note, she read Chakotay's graceful handwriting, not bothering to wipe away the tears that streamed down her face.

With this ring, Kathryn, I make you a promise. No matter how far apart our paths meander, or how many trials we face in our uncertain future, I will always be your friend, and I will always be there for you. You are not alone.

All My Love,

Chakotay

Bits of wrapping paper were still floating silently to the floor as the door to the Mess Hall closed behind Kathryn's running form.....

******************** ********finis********

The following piece is the sequel to ALWAYS that I mentioned earlier.

Disclaimer: Paramount owns everything Voyager. No copyright infringement is intended.

WARNING: NC-17 This story contains explicit descriptions of loving sexual expression between consenting adults. If such activity offends you or you are under the age of 18, please do not read any further!

Ghostwriter's notes: I wrote the initial story entitled "Always" in response to a JetC13 challenge: write a short, intense moment between J/C. Although it didn't actually pass the "less than two pages" requirement specified by list Mom Lor, I was forgiven and my story was warmly embraced by my fellow pond-mates. Others have read the short since then and given me a great deal of positive feedback. I hadn't given thought to a continuation of the story until my dear friend, Renegade, began asking for one:) I relented, but only on the condition that she write it with me! What follows is the result of our literary collaboration. I wish to acknowledge my writing partner for all her help and support with this project. Without Renegade, we may never have known what happened after Kathryn ran out of the mess hall after Chakotay! So, please sit back and enjoy our tale!

Renegade's notes: Ghosti has become a close friend since her first request to read my story The Challenge. When she asked me to collaborate with her, I couldn't answer the e-mail fast enough. This sequel has been a labor of love between two friends. Kathryn and Chakotay belong together and we hope you'll enjoy our tale of love between these eternal lovers, and friends.

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"ALWAYS" (NC-17) Written by Ghostwriter and Renegade April 1998

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Bits of wrapping paper were still floating silently to the floor as the door to the mess hall closed behind Kathryn's running form...

She ran breathlessly down the corridor towards the turbolift. As she rounded the bend, she called out to him. "Chakotay!" He turned as he heard her voice, leaving the turbolift doors open behind him.

She slowed her pace, trying to regain her composure before reaching him. As she approached, she could see that his eyes were glistening. Her own cheeks were still wet from the tears that had streamed down her face. She stepped towards him slowly, cautiously, raising her hand. "Chakotay... I...take this..."

He gazed into her eyes questioningly, then down at her hand as she opened it to reveal the ring he had given her. His eyes grew dark. "Kathryn...don't...please..." He closed his eyes and lowered his head. He realized his error in making such a promise to her, knowing that she'd never be able to accept. He'd been a fool. "I'm sorry... I shouldn't have..."

He went the take the ring from her hand, but she closed it suddenly. Tears were welling in her eyes again as she gazed up at him. Her words were soft as she slowly opened her hand once more. "Please.... Put it on...."

He raised his eyes suddenly, staring down at her. "What?"

She pressed her hand at him. "Please Chakotay...place it on my finger..."

His voice was shaking. "Kathryn..." He swallowed hard as his eyes filled with tears. He slowly took the ring from her grasp and reached down to take her right hand, which still clutched his note protectively.

She pulled it away from him as he gazed at her in disbelief. Her eyes were fixed on his. Ever so slowly she raised her left hand toward his. As he gazed at her, bewildered, she pressed it towards him, urging him. "No Chakotay... This one... Place it on this one...."

He slowly took her left hand in his, as he raised his right hand. His eyes were so filled with tears that he could barely see. He felt like his whole body was shaking, but his hand was steady as it slowly placed the ring on the third finger of her left hand. As it took its resting-place, he clasped his hand over hers and gazed deep into her eyes before wrapping his left arm around her and pulling her to him. He raised his right hand and clasped it behind her head, pressing his cheek next to hers, as he held her tightly. He could feel her tears dampen his uniform, as his own fell from his eyes and dampened her hair as he stroked it.

They stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, neither one saying a word, but each knowing what the other felt. A promise made. A promise given. A promise to be fulfilled....

********

After a brief moment, Chakotay came to his senses and remembered that he had been called to the bridge. He hit his comm badge. "Chakotay to Tuvok."

"Tuvok here."

"Tuvok, I'll be there in a few minutes. Something has come up that I need to look into further." He gazed deep into Kathryn's eyes as she smiled up at him.

"Very well Commander. Tuvok out."

Chakotay hugged her close. "Come on, I'll walk you back to your quarters." He lowered his arms and placed his hand against the small of her back, guiding her into the turbolift. "Officers quarters." He studied her carefully as he kept his hand close to her back.

Kathryn's eyes were fixed on the ring now placed on her finger. Unshed tears were still gathered in her eyes as she turned to face him, hesitant of what to say. "Chakotay, it's beautiful. Thank you."

Chakotay studied her face, her eyes, and her lips. He wanted to bend down and kiss her mouth, tenderly, reverently, passionately, but he didn't want to press his luck. More had happened in the last few minutes than he ever thought possible. He swallowed and sighed. "You're welcome." The turbolift slowed and the doors opened, but he didn't move. He was captivated by the expression on her face. "After you Captain."

She smiled at him ruefully as she turned and exited the turbolift. Her gate was slow as she walked down the corridor. He was walking beside her, closer than usual and her hand searched for his, grasping it tightly as they walked. When they reached her quarters she keyed in her code slowly. She took a step forward as the doors slid open, slowly releasing his hand. After hesitating a moment, she turned back to him. "I guess you'd better get to the bridge."

His eyes closed slightly as he sighed. "Yes. Good evening Kathryn." He smiled and began to turn.

She looked up quickly, raising her hand to touch his shoulder. "Chakotay, wait." When he turned his face toward her, he felt her hand pressing against his cheek, touching his tattoo, then slowly sliding around the back of his neck to pull his head down. Her eyes locked on his as she opened her mouth slightly, moistening her lips as she bid him closer.

He didn't resist her. He couldn't. His arms wrapped around her waist and pulled her into his embrace. "Kathryn," he whispered tenderly as his lips joined with hers.

She melted into his arms, wrapping both her arms around his neck, pulling him to her. His lips were hot and she found herself opening her mouth wider, searching out his tongue with her own as she pressed her mouth against his harder, the kiss becoming more passionate. Her groin began to ache with a growing heat, and she pressed her hips into him. She was past the point of no return now. She'd already made him a promise with her actions in the corridor and now by this. She wanted Chakotay to be more than just her First Officer. She wanted him to be her lover, her husband.

Her mind was racing. Her subconscious kept screaming at her. *What the hell are you doing woman? He's your First Officer!* But, her conscious kept telling her, whispering to her, *Take him Kathryn. Go on, you can do it. Show him how much he really means to you.* Her subconscious raised its ugly voice again. *Don't do it Kathryn! You'll regret it!! Starfleet will not allow this outrage!!* Her conscious continued, determined to win out, *Who gives a damn! Starfleet regulations will have to be put on hold. We're in the Delta Quadrant - who has to know?*

*Who has to know? Who has to know...* The thought resounded in her head. Her conscious was right. If they were destined to spend the next sixty years in the Delta Quadrant then by God she was entitled to something more meaningful than the loneliness of command. She inhaled deeply. *Yes, she was entitled to more.*

She resisted the urge to pull away from him, but knew she had to. He was needed on the bridge. *Damn you Tuvok,* she thought to herself. "Chakotay," she began quietly, the words low and throaty, filled with desire as she fought to catch her breath, "please join me for some coffee after you finish your shift."

He pulled away from her and stared into her eyes, his mind racing. *Surely, I must be dreaming?* he thought. *This is not really happening...She didn't just ask me in for a nightcap did she? No you fool, she just asked you to stop by for a cup of coffee, and probably some small talk. You're reading too much into this little kiss, Chakotay. Be careful or you'll fall from the ledge you're already teetering on. You will fall and break your heart...* But her eyes spoke to him, begging him, pleading with him to fulfill his promise. *Oh my God! She does want me to stop by for a nightcap!*

His own loins were now aching for something more as his heart pounded in his chest. He nuzzled his cheek against her hair, closing his eyes to the thoughts that were invading his mind. *Patience, Chakotay, patience,* he kept repeating to himself. "If you wish, of course," he spoke slowly. His comm badge chirped, bolting him into reality. He pulled away from her as he hit the badge. It was Tuvok's voice once again. *Damn that Vulcan has the worst timing,* he thought. "Chakotay here, Tuvok. I'm on my way." He gazed back down at her and smiled. "I'll be back." He heard the doors close behind him as he turned and walked away, taking a deep breath to clear his head before returning to the bridge.

As the doors slid closed, it took all the energy Kathryn had to keep her knees from buckling. Her insides were on fire and she pressed her forehead against the cool metal of the wall. Her breath was ragged, and she raised her hand to her lips, closing her eyes at the thought that she had just shared a wonderful passionate kiss with her First Officer.

She gathered her strength and turned towards the living area of her cabin, quickly glancing at the chronometer. It was 1700 hours. Two more hours before he was in her arms again. She threw her head back and sighed heavily. *I need to relax.* Taking a deep breath, she touched her lips once more, a gentle smile forming on her face. It was time for a bath...

********

Seven had exited the turbolift and was making her way toward the Captain's quarters when she heard the voices around the corner, causing her to stop.

Obviously, her two commanding officers were discussing something of vital importance. She stood there for a moment, until the silence became annoying. She needed to speak with the Captain regarding her findings before she joined Ensign Kim in Astrometrics, and she did not wish to be delayed.

She tilted her head around the bulkhead as she raised her optical implant. *Curious* she thought. I wonder why Commander Chakotay is examining the Captains throat?* She frowned. In her training with the Doctor, she had never seen a throat examined in such a manner. *Why would the Commander have his mouth pressed to hers in such a rudimentary manner* The optical implant raised once more. *Humans. Strange and illogical behavior.* She was just about to take a step forward as her comm badge chirped.

"Ensign Kim to Seven of Nine. I need your assistance immediately."

"Acknowledged," she responded, tapping her comm badge. Her discussion with the Captain would have to wait.

********

Kathryn slowly lit the candles in her bathroom, breathing in their fragrant aroma as the tub filled with warm water. She had added several drops of peach and jasmine perfume to it, filling her senses with the intoxicating smell that she knew would excite and delight Chakotay.

She slowly stepped into the tub and lay back against the wall of it as the warm water caressed her body. She lay there for a long time, letting the water ease away the tension in her muscles. Her eyes were half closed as she thought about the kiss that she and Chakotay had just shared. His lips were so hot against her mouth, as his arms had held her close to his breast. She remembered hearing the pounding of his heart as she pressed closer to him, wanting him to devour her then and there at the door to her quarters.

She inhaled deeply and reached for the sponge and bath gel. *Get a grip Kathryn,* she told herself. *Remember, this needs to be a two way street. You may be jumping to conclusions here, sister. He may not be ready for that.*

She closed her eyes and tried to force the thoughts from her head as she began to run the sponge over her arms and across her chest. It tickled her breasts as she lightly brushed it over them, travelling down her belly. Her body shuddered as sensual thoughts flooded her mind.

Her hand instinctively went to touch her left nipple as it hardened. She sighed deeply. *Oh no, I can't think about this - not now...ohhh.* Her fingers toyed with the nipple, twirling and pinching it as she moaned softly, visions of him caressing her with those strong hands invading her thoughts. Her back arched against her hand, pressing her breast towards the assaults of her fingers.

Her moans increased as her loins began to answer the sensations that the twirling and pinching of her nipples created. She released the sponge, lowering her right hand to the sensitive area between her legs. She parted the folds, searching for the hardening nub that lay beneath, shuddering slightly as her hand brushed against the button that would trigger her release.

Her eyes were closed completely now as she envisioned Chakotay grazing his fingers over her, pressing and twirling her clitoris as his fingers assaulted her moist opening. She could only imagine how those fingers would feel inside her, massaging her, kneading her vaginal walls until she writhed in ecstasy. *Oh God! Chakotay!!! There, yes, there* Her hand rubbed harder, pressing the nub as her hips ground against her hand, legs tensing to the growing sensation as she neared her apex. She moaned loudly, kneading her breast as her right hand rubbed her clitoris and opening at a furious pace. Her breathing became ragged and heavy as the ache increased. *Ohhhhh...Please...* She opened her mouth slightly as if to kiss him, imagining his lips searing hers once more. "Chakotay..." she whispered his name to the silence.

Then suddenly her eyes flew open, her hands ceasing their onslaught. She was gasping for breath, her loins aching, her body screaming at her for stopping. Closing her eyes, she laid her head back against the tub. *No, not yet. I have to wait...I must wait.*

She was breathless, her breasts heaving as her lower body quivered and tensed from unvanquished release. She moistened her lips before gently biting her lower lip as she spoke the words her thoughts generated. "Yes, I must wait...I must wait for Chakotay. Only he can quench this fire." She glanced at the chronometer by the door. *1800 hours. One hour left...one hour to kindle this fire to a raging inferno. God, Chakotay! Please don't be late!*

********

Harry was studying the newest maps of the region of space they had just passed through when Seven strode into Astrometrics, a look of frustration on her face. He sighed. If only shed let down her Borg resistance once in awhile and let people get close to her. "Well, I can see this is going to be a long night."

"Long night Ensign? I fail to see the relevance. A night is determined by a set length of time. The length is always the same, therefore, it is neither long nor short."

"Never mind," he muttered, "It was just a figure of speech Seven."

"Figure of Speech?"

"Look, forget I said anything. Did you get to speak with Captain Janeway regarding those calculations we theorized?"

A frown crossed Seven's face. "No. The Captain and the Commander were involved in conversation. I was going to interrupt them when I received your call."

"Sorry about that. I managed to work out the calculation before you arrived."

Seven raised her optic implant and replied stoically. "Very well. I will verify it."

"Sure. Then we can proceed to ask the Captain about our theory."

"I do not think that advisable Ensign."

"Oh, that's right. She's off duty. That's okay, it can wait until tomorrow."

"Her being off duty has little relevance to my remark Ensign. I surmise that the Captain may not be feeling very well this evening."

Harry frowned as a look of concern passed over his face. "Really? What makes you say that?"

Seven tilted her head slightly. "It was obvious that Commander Chakotay was examining her throat, but his method was most unlike any the Doctor has demonstrated."

Harry's eyebrows raised. "Her throat?" His eyes widened as he inhaled. "Just how was the Commander examining her throat?"

"In a most rudimentary fashion. I do not see the relevance of a throat examination when both arms are wrapped around the waist, and one's mouth is pressed against the patient's. A complete visual inspection of the infected area cannot be performed in this manner. Of what purpose does this method serve?"

Harry's eyes were now wider than saucers. He swallowed hard, his face betraying his shock. "Wait a minute! You're saying that the Commander's arms were around her waist and their mouths were touching?!"

"Yes, that is what I indicated. I fail to see your astonishment in this matter Ensign."

"Seven! That was no throat examination! They were kissing!! You've seen Tom and B'Elanna kiss before."

Seven's optical implant raised as a frown crossed her face. "I believe that is correct. But, I have not witnessed that act in the manner that the Commander and the Captain were demonstrating, Ensign."

"Oh, I'm sure they weren't demonstrating, Seven. In fact, I'd bet my last replicator rations that they weren't demonstrating. I'm sure if they'd known you were there, that kiss would've never happened."

"I do not see the correlation to my presence being the determining factor as to whether or not the Captain and the Commander kiss, as you choose to define it."

Harry could only sigh and shake his head. Seven still had so much to learn. "The correlation, Seven, is Starfleet Regulations and Protocol."

"But we are in the Delta Quadrant. Have you not said that we are the only Starfleet vessel in this quadrant?"

"Yes."

"Then, other than this vessel and this crew, there is no Starfleet. Correct?"

Sometimes Seven's logic was too simplistic. "Correct," he smiled faintly. *There is no Starfleet,* he thought to himself, *only rules that were sometimes too strict for any Captain or First Officer to endure for over sixty years.* His next words were spoken out loud and brought a bewildered look to Seven's face. "Oh well, the betting pool will be brisk tonight."

********

The minutes ticked by at an agonizingly slow rate. She'd been pacing in her gown and robe for over a half an hour. Her stomach was now in knots. *I can't go through with this,* she thought to herself. *He'll never respect me as Captain if I let my guard down.* She inhaled deeply, balling her fists to keep them from shaking off her arms. *Oh God! What was I thinking?* She closed her eyes. His kiss invaded her thoughts once more and she felt herself warm all over. *God give me strength to go through this.* She nearly jumped out of her skin as the chime signaled for entry. She balled her fists tighter, inhaled deeply, and walked to the door.

"Come in," she called, trying to keep her voice even.

As the door slid open, Kathryn's breath caught sharply. Chakotay stood there, hands clasped behind his back, wearing a creme colored silk top, dark brown trousers, and the most devastating smile she'd ever seen. Her legs turned to liquid instantly, forcing her to reach out and steady herself against the wall.

"Permission to enter?" Chakotay chuckled after a few moments of silence. The tension broken, Kathryn laughed softly as she regained her bearings.

"Of course, please come in." He stepped inside slowly, taking in her appearance as well as the furious blush that spread across her face as she turned and quickly headed for the replicator. "Is Hazelnut okay with you?"

"Sounds good, thank you." Chakotay watched her carefully, noting the way she wrung her hands together and how she was avoiding looking straight at him. When she walked back from the replicator, the coffee cups shook ever so slightly in her grasp as she handed him one.

"Please." She said, indicating the sofa. His eyes never left her as he sat. *Just a bit jittery...* he thought, smiling inwardly. "So," she continued, taking a sip from her cup, "Is everything in order upstairs?"

He smiled again at her reference to the bridge. *She really is nervous.*

"Everything is fine. A few minor calibration problems with the realigned deflectors - enough to warrant a senior officer's thumbprint on the report, but certainly not enough to pull the Captain up on her day off."

"Chakotay..." her voice trailed off as he finished. The coffee cup in her hands was shaking badly. He set his down quickly and reached for hers before she spilled anything.

"Kathryn," he looked deeply into her eyes, "I love you very much, but if what happened earlier is making you uncomfortable in any way...." There he'd said it.... He loved her. There was no hiding the depth of his feelings any longer.

"No....." she smiled, her shaking hands surrounded by his own, warm and steady. "It's taken me a long time to see the truth in my own heart, Chakotay. I'm just sorry I kept you at arms length for so long." She paused, taking a deep breath as he held her hands gently. "I love you very much, Chakotay. I need you. I need us...." Tears were threatening again, but she blinked them back. The love that shone on his face took her breath away. She looked down as she felt his fingers caressing the ring on her left hand, a smile forming on her features. That smile quickly turned into a grimace as the muscles in her neck protested painfully. Her right hand flew up to the searing points of pain, a soft hiss announcing the problem.

"Kathryn?" he asked quietly.

"I'll be fine," Kathryn answered, trying to knead away the pain of a body that was far too tense.

"Nobody deserves to have sore neck muscles on their birthday," Chakotay smiled. "Why don't you let me work those kinks out for you." He slid over closer to her, slowly placing his hands on her shoulders, as she lowered her head.

He inhaled deeply and took in the fragrant smell of peaches and jasmine as they wafted up to his nose. *Resist the urge, Chakotay, resist the urge.* He slowly began to massage her neck and shoulders. She felt so tense beneath his hands that his eyes narrowed with concern. "Are you sure you're all right Kathryn?"

His hands felt like heaven. She sighed heavily to quell her nerves. "I'm fine. Really."

He continued to rub her neck as he felt her shoulders relax ever so slightly to his touch. *Take it slow. Don't rush. Let her become accustomed to this.* He lowered his head slightly and whispered, "Just relax Kathryn. Just relax..."

Chakotay felt her breath deepen as he spoke the words. He gently pressed her back against his chest as his hands traveled down the length of her arms and back up again to her shoulders. *Oh Gods she smells so wonderful!* The nearness of her body and the smell of her skin and hair was only fueling the fire in his loins that had been burning for over two hours. He inhaled deeply. *There's no turning back now.* He closed his eyes slightly as his hands slowly grazed over her shoulders toward her breasts. She suddenly tensed, but he pressed forward. He whispered to her, his voice low and husky. "Sshh Kathryn, let me do this. It will help relax you."

His hands continued their journey down her chest. He waited for her to stop him, to offer some kind of protest, but she didn't. He drew in a soft, deep breath as his fingers curled around her breasts, cupping them gently. Her back arched almost imperceptibly. Smiling, he began kneading them slowly, gently at first, increasing the pressure as her nipples became hard with arousal. He kissed the nape of her neck, and stroked his tongue along her earlobe, breathing slowly, his mouth slightly open so he could blow against her ear. Kathryn shivered as his breath tickled her, a small smile spreading across her face. Taking that as his cue, Chakotay's right hand continued to work its way down her torso, coming to rest on her mound. She tensed once again, a small gasp escaping her throat, but his mouth was against her ear, whispering low, his breath hot on her cheek. "You need this, Kathryn, and I want to give it to you just as badly. Please let me..."

His hand slid under her gown, and he realized with a start that she wore no underwear. His astonishment faded quickly, hesitation giving way to renewed eagerness. She moaned softly as his fingers slid between her swollen folds, lazily navigating until they uncovered the tiny bud of flesh that would be her undoing. Another gasp, louder this time. He pressed his forefinger against it, resting there for several moments as he continued to kiss her neck and cheek. His left hand continued its ministrations on her breast as he pressed her towards his chest. Her nerve endings ignited as his right hand began its delicious assault down below, moving his thumb to twirl slowly around her aching clitoris. Gently, he inserted his other fingers into her moistening center one by one.

Kathryn's breath quickened and she arched her hips repeatedly against his hand. Her eyes were half closed as he lowered her shoulders slightly so he could kiss her mouth. As his lips grazed hers, he increased the rhythm of his hand. She moaned as his lips found hers. His breathing deepened with her desire as passion raged in his own groin. He could feel her legs tense as his hand massaged the inner walls of her sanctum. His thumb pressed against her nub harder and his hand twisted inside of her as she responded to his touch with a growing urgency. She reached up behind her to grab his shoulders, steadying her as she ground her hips faster against his hand. She broke their kiss suddenly with a startled whimper, which only added to his own excruciating arousal.

Within seconds her movements had become chaotic, her rhythm lost to the impending wave of pleasure. She stared desperately into his eyes as her orgasm approached, her breathing rough and broken. He smiled gently as she finally closed her eyes, back arching sharply as she flew gloriously over the edge. His mouth covered hers quickly as she began to cry out, smothering the rapturous song of her release with his soft lips. Her body shuddered and bucked against his hands, rolling sweetly with her climax as she gasped for air. He rode it with her, his soul feeling every moment of her joy, relishing in it.

As her quaking body relaxed, Chakotay gazed deep into her eyes, now open and wide with desire. He smiled tenderly, "Relaxed?"

Kathryn could only nod, tears gathering against her will. She reached up and placed her hand against his cheek, allowing him to kiss her palm. "Thank you." Her voice was deep and tremulous.

He slowly removed his hand from her, allowing her to enjoy and adjust to her afterglow. "You're welcome." He looked down at her, studying the expression on her face before he lowered his head once more to kiss her, wrapping his arms around to cradle her.

She relaxed completely then, giving her mouth to him as he held her close to his chest. His scent was intoxicating and she felt the fire ignite once again. "Chakotay?"

He pulled away from her. "Yes?"

"Make love to me...."

His heart leapt. His eyes darkened as his mouth parted slightly in anticipation and shock. "Kathryn, are you sure?"

She nodded as she pulled his head and mouth back down to hers. "Yes, but not here....the bedroom."

He nodded slowly as his eyes locked on hers. He kissed her passionately as he wrapped his arms beneath her and picked her up.

********

Kathryn's eyes remained locked with his as he laid her down on the bed, gently removing her robe and gown. Her hands reached up to undo the buttons to his shirt and then his belt and trousers. She pushed the shirt off his shoulders as her mouth found his left nipple. She kissed it reverently, inhaling the spice of his cologne. Her hands pushed his trousers down, then lingered on his buttocks as they pressed him towards her. Chakotay threw his head back as he moaned softly. When he had shed them completely, he stood there for a moment, taking in her completeness as she gazed upon his. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders and lay back down against the bed, pulling him with her.

Chakotay gently lay down on top of her, entwining his fingers in her hair as he nuzzled her cheek before claiming her mouth once more. "Gods Kathryn! How I've waited for this moment..."

Her voice was low as her breath quickened to the feel of his body against hers. "No more than I Chakotay."

He kissed her again. "You won't regret this. With all my heart and soul, I promise." He gazed deep into her eyes, as his own filled with tears.

The sight of his face, of the passion and love behind those tears, sent shivers through her body. She wrapped her arms around him tighter. "OhChakotay!"

He raised himself on one elbow and took her right breast in his hand, twirling her nipple between his thumb and forefinger. His hips began to undulate against her mound. Kathryn moaned and arched in response. He slowly bent his head down to take her nipple in his mouth, nibbling and teasing as his hand massaged it. He reached down and put his hand between them, parting her folds. He began to massage her nub once more as his hips pressed against her. He raised his head and gazed into her eyes, slowly kissing her as he inserted his fingers inside of her, twirling and stroking her inner folds once again. His voice was low and husky. "Let me pleasure you before I take you as my own, Kathryn."

She gyrated beneath him, pressing against his hand and hip, forcing his hand further inside her. "Ahhh, please Chakotay!" Her breath was hot against his neck. Her whole body was on fire as the ache inside her screamed to be vanquished, hands clawing at his shoulders as she quickened her gyrations against him. Her voice pleaded with him. "Please Chakotay, I want you inside of me."

He kissed her tenderly. "In due time, Kathryn. First, I want you to forget your past, forget your torment. I want you to remember that I am here for you always. Remember that I will always strive to pleasure you first before all else; remember that I have made you a promise with my heart and now I will fulfill it with my soul." His hand kept a steady rhythm as she pressed against him. He wanted to prolong her sensations until he took her over the apex. He could feel her begin to tighten and he lowered his mouth to hers, slowing his rhythm. "Not yet Kathryn, make it last."

Her breaths were quick as she tossed her head from side to side. She was releasing short little cries as her eyes filled with tears. She wrapped her hands behind his head and pulled him to her lips, as she kissed him passionately. She arched her hips against him and felt her muscles tighten once more. "Chakotay! I can't! Please..." she begged him as a tear fell from her cheek. "Please..."

He gently kissed her cheek, as his lips tasted her tears. "Ssshhh. Let it come gradually, Kathryn. Let me guide you." His fingers gently stroked her as his thumb teased her hardened nub which was now red and swollen with desire. His other hand stroked her breast and side, grazing it ever so lightly as she shuddered against his touch. Her moans were low as her hips undulated beneath him. He smiled down at her, pleased with the reaction he was receiving. Her lips were quivering as he bent his head to kiss her breast once more, as he placed his hand beneath her and squeezed her buttocks. His right hand was continuing to stroke and massage her inner folds slowly and meticulously. He forced her to keep the pace with him, slowing his ministrations each time he felt her near her release.

Kathryn was breathless. Her body ached and arched against him, body glowing with beads of perspiration as Chakotay drove her nearer and nearer to completion. She'd never felt so engulfed in the act of passion before in her life. Chakotay was a skilled master, and in his hands she was putty. She gripped his back in desperation as she felt herself tighten once more. "Please Chakotay!!!"

Chakotay gazed deep into her eyes and smiled tenderly. He felt her tighten around his fingers and he pressed them deeper inside of her, as his other hand squeezed her buttocks and pressed her hips into his. His words were soft and tender against her mouth before he covered it with his own. "Very well, my love, release yourself to me."

Her whole body shuddered against him as she reached her orgasm, her back arching suddenly. She screamed, the wave of release so forceful that she exploded in massive heaves beneath him, her arms straining to pull him closer. As her shuddering slowed, she could only whisper his name before collapsing on the bed. "Chakotay...."

He kissed the beads of sweat from her brow and studied her expression. Her lips were quivering from the aftershocks now taking over her body. He pressed his cheek to hers and whispered into her ear. "Once more, my love, before we ride that wave together." And with that, he gently rolled himself on top of her, kissing her cheek tenderly as she parted her legs and wrapped them around his torso. Their eyes fixed intently on each other as he slowly inserted his hardened shaft into her swollen folds. She arched against him, crying out once more as he stifled her cry with a passionate kiss, groaning in delight as she encompassed him totally in her moist tight heat. "Gods, Kathryn, you're so hot! So tight...God, you feel wonderful!"

He pushed himself deeper, undulating his hips against her mound as he gyrated against her most sensitive inner area. He wanted to hold on as long as he could, knowing that it would only pleasure her more, even if it caused him exquisite pain. He set the pace once more, this time with his shaft and hips. He felt her legs tighten around him as he stroked her entire length slowly with long deliberate strokes. Her mouth was slightly open, as her breaths became small pants of desire. "Chakotay," she whispered his name over and over, as her hands clutched his buttocks to press him against her.

His rhythm was slow and methodical, but as he felt her heat rage around him, his pace began to quicken. Her hips matched his in concert as her heart joined his beat for beat. Her mouth found one of his nipples and teased it, nibbling and biting it as she felt him quiver inside her. She moaned with desire as her eyes deepened with passion. He groaned as he buried his head in the nape of her neck, his thrusts becoming harder and more deliberate. He was so close, so very close, but he had to hold on...had to resist the urge. The pleasure of release would be worth the pain of waiting. He moaned her name lovingly against her skin. "Kathryn, I love you."

Seconds became minutes and minutes became an eternity. She raised her hands over her head, desperately arching her body against his, as her eyes pleaded with him. Her moans were now cries as she felt her inner folds tighten around him, pushing him to fill her cavity with his hot life giving liquid. "Ahhh! Chakotay! Please...please."

Chakotay could no longer resist her cries of desperation. He lowered his body onto hers fully, as he outstretched his hands over her head. He claimed her mouth in a fiery, passionate kiss, their hands grasping tightly, entwining as they had done on New Earth. Their hold tightened and tensed as their bodies became one, moving in concert to the heat of passion overtaking them. As she arched against him once more, Chakotay felt her tighten around his shaft with such force and such heat that he cried out from the exquisite pain it caused him, finally releasing his juices deep within her. His own release sent her over the edge as forcefully as he had gone. They both cried out desperately through the kiss as their breaths became one, their bodies heaving and shuddering from the force of their climax.

Kathryn's legs quivered and shook as her afterglow took hold. Her breasts pressed against Chakotay's hard chest as her breathing came in gasps. She could feel him tense as her afterglow caused her inner folds to continue to massage his sensitive shaft. She slowly pulled her right hand free from his grasp and gently stroked his tattoo, soothing his brow and stilling the pain of passion he was now feeling from his own release. She gently kissed his cheek, nuzzling her own against his as she spoke softly. "Oh Chakotay, you waited too long. Are you all right?"

Chakotay groaned softly between his gasps, his body shaking uncontrollably as his emotions came flooding to the surface. He couldn't speak. Tears of joy and pain fell against her skin. He had dreamed of this moment for over four long years, and now the emotional and physical fulfillment of that dream was more than he could bear. His body was shuddering as he clenched his other hand in hers desperately. Every nerve in his body was on fire, ignited by the explosion of his release, but the pain was exquisite. His breaths were quick as he fought to regain control, eyes closed tightly, voice faltering with emotion. "I'm all right." After several moments, he shifted slightly, and managed to wrap his arms around her, shuddering once again as he did so. He slowly opened his eyes to see her own watching him intently. He blinked back his tears and gazed at her, as a worried expression crossed his face. His own pain was forgotten as he realized that he may have hurt her. She was crying, her face streaked in tears. "Kathryn I didn't hurt you did I?"

Kathryn pulled him to her breast, nuzzling his head in the nape of her neck. She shook her head gently. "No my love, I'm all right." Her hands gently stroked his arms and shoulders, lightly grazing his skin as they traversed across his back, and down his thigh. His body felt so tense with emotion that she wanted only to ease his pain and soothe his raw nerves. Her voice was fraught with emotion at seeing him so desperately open with feelings that she knew he had buried for so long. Her tears fell freely as she kissed his cheek, grazing his lips. "I can't begin to describe what I feel right now...that was incredible. But you must promise me that you will never cause yourself pain for my own pleasure."

Chakotay could barely speak. "Kathryn."

"Ssshhh, Chakotay, promise me."

He could only nod as the wave subsided and tears filled his eyes once more. He tightened his hold around her, as his breathing calmed and his body stilled in her arms. The loving touch of her hands caressed and soothed his muscles, extinguishing the painful fire in his nerves. Her words lulling him to sleep in her arms. His voice was soft as his eyes closed. "I love you, Kathryn."

"Oh, Chakotay. I love you." Kathryn continued to stroke his hair and gently kiss his tattoo, as he fell asleep. She placed her hand on his cheek and gently wiped away a tear, sighing heavily, as realization hit home. They were no longer Captain and First Officer. They were now lovers.

She gazed at the ring on her hand, before slowly closing her own eyes. As she drifted off to sleep, tears of happiness fell from her cheeks. He'd made her a promise with the ring, and gave her his heart. Now he had sealed it with his soul.

********

Tom and B'Elanna were deep in conversation in the Mess Hall when Harry approached them, a Cheshire smile on his face.

Tom looked up hesitantly as he pulled his hand away from B'Elanna's. "It's late Harry." He then noticed the grin on Harry's face as he sat down. "Well, you look like the cat that just swallowed the canary."

"You have no idea," Harry smiled.

B'Elanna looked at him with an irritated look in her eye. She and Tom had been discussing their plans for a new romantic holoprogram and Harry had interrupted them at the wrong moment. *So much for setting the sexual mood,* she sighed. "Are you going to enlighten us, Starfleet, or do we need to perform a Vulcan mind meld?"

Harry ignored her raking comments and turned to Tom. "What's the spread in tonight's pool Tom?"

"Depends on which spread you want Harry. There are several going on tonight," Tom answered, "Like, whether or not Jerron can get Tuvok to smile at least once during his duty shift, what manner of culinary delight Neelix will tempt us with tomorrow for breakfast, or what time Naomi finally goes to bed..."

Harry interrupted him. "Any spread on the Captain and Commander?"

B'Elanna had just taken a sip of her drink, and Tom's eyes flew open as she herself spit out the liquid. They both cried out in unison. "What?!"

Harry remained calm, and pressed further. "Is there a spread on the Captain and Commander being in the same room, for any length of time, alone?"

Tom sighed. "Harry, they spend a lot of time together in a room, alone. They mull over those reports for seemingly hours on end. That's nothing new." He waved his hand, as if to cast off the notion.

"Well, is there a spread?"

"Same as always, Harry. Tonight's no different than last night or the night before or the night before that. How much do you want?"

Harry straightened his shoulders. "One month's worth of rations."

B'Elanna's eyes widened. "One month?!"

Tom's face was incredulous. "You must be joking?"

Harry folded his arms and only stared at Tom with a firm gaze. I'm not joking. One month."

Tom looked at B'Elanna and grinned. "Well my love, looks like we'll have that steak dinner with wine after all. Okay, Harry, it's a bet."

"Good. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got some things I need to do before my shift." He got up and turned to walk away, then paused and turned back to Tom and B'Elanna, grinning. "Oh, one more thing Tom. Are you giving any extra points for passionate kissing?" He turned and walked through the doors, leaving both Tom and B'Elanna speechless with their mouths hanging wide open.

********

Kathryn slowly stirred to the feel of Chakotay's arm across her abdomen, pressing her against him. The temperature in her quarters seemed a bit cooler and she nuzzled up against him for warmth as she quickly glanced at the chronometer. She smiled as she thought to herself. *Wonderful. It's only 0300 hours, three more hours of this heaven before we have to put on our command facades and act like nothing has happened. God, how am I ever going to get through Alpha shift with him sitting so close to me? I can't reach out and touch him...not even his hand? I guess we'll just have to retreat to my ready room for report reviews.* She sighed as his arm wrapped around her tighter and she felt his lips brush the back of her head.

"Kathryn. Anything wrong?"

She pressed against him. "Nothing, my love, just thinking about how were going to have to read all of those reports from Delta shift, for hours on end, in my ready room...alone."

She could feel him smile against her hair as he nuzzled her closer. "We are in command, my dear. It is after all, our duty."

She smiled as she turned her head to kiss him. "And we must never shirk our duty, right?"

"Starfleet would have our heads." His eyes were filled with mischief as he returned her kiss.

"Then we'll just have to make sure we perform our duty as we see fit."

She turned to face him, reached her arm around him and pulled him down to her mouth, claiming him in a passionate kiss as she pressed her hips into his. Her eyes were dark with aroused passion. "We still have three hours before our shift. Tired?"

He grinned wickedly. "Not for what you have in mind." He rolled onto his back, pulling her with him as he devoured her mouth.

********

Tom and Harry exchanged quick glances as the turbolift doors opened to reveal Commander Chakotay. Harry just raised an eyebrow and smirked at Tom before turning his attention back to the Operations console in front of him.

Chakotay was too in tune to the crew of this ship not to notice the subtlety of Tom and Harry's actions. He quickly side glanced at Harry as he walked from the upper level to his chair. His eyes bored into the back of Tom's head as he sat down. "Report, Mr. Paris."

Tom swallowed hard. He could feel Chakotay's eyes burning through the back of his skull. *Damn it Chakotay, it's not me you should be burning in the ashes* "One zero seven point five six, sir. Speed warp two." He didn't turn around as he spoke, knowing Chakotay would read the look on his face.

"Take us to impulse, Mr. Paris, and maintain heading." He frowned. Tom was hiding something. He directed his attention to Harry. "Mr. Kim? Anything on long range scanners?"

'Nothing sir. All's quiet on the Western Front, so to speak," Harry grinned.

Chakotay studied the young Ensign. Harry couldn't keep a secret to save his soul, but he was keeping one now. The look on his face said it all. "Nothing is ever quiet in the Delta Quadrant Ensign. Just keep your eyes open."

"Aye sir."

Chakotay turned his attention to the PADDs next to him. He checked the chronometer, then diverted his gaze to the report from B'Elanna. He glanced quickly at the Captain's chair next to him only a few inches away. *Gods, Kathryn, whatever you do, don't wear jasmine today, not after last night. I won't be able to control myself*

The doors swished open, and Kathryn strode onto the bridge, her cheeks slightly tinged in pink. "Report."

Chakotay looked up and smiled wistfully. "All quiet Captain. I've ordered slow to impulse, and to maintain course on current heading." He caught a whiff of her perfume and sighed. *Damn it...jasmine*

Kathryn tried to control her gaze as her eyes met his. "Very good, Commander. Let's hope it's a quiet day all the way around. We've got a lot of work to do." She couldn't help notice Tom's head tilt slightly in Harry's direction at her remark. *Keep your thoughts to yourself Mr. Paris.* She inhaled deeply and glanced at Chakotay. She knew he had noticed it as well. Their eyes locked for a brief moment, as they read each other's mind. *Yes, my love, I know. They sense something.* She quickly glanced down at her hand. The ring glistened under the lights of the bridge. She twirled it slightly with her thumb as she took her seat beside Chakotay. Her gaze was fixed on the viewscreen, but she could feel Chakotay's eyes studying her and the ring on her hand. She picked up a PADD and tried to concentrate, but after several moments resigned herself to the fact that she needed to retreat to her ready room, away from Chakotay's cologne. "Commander, you have the bridge. I'll be in my ready room. Notify me immediately if there are any changes on the long range scanners."

Chakotay bit his lower lip to hide the smile. "Aye, Captain." He watched her as she picked up the PADDs next to her station and walked, no, sauntered, to her ready room. *I'll see you shortly, my love.* As if she read his thoughts, she turned her head and smiled at him with her eyes. He noticed that Tom was watching with a smirk on his face, and silently cursed himself for not being more indiscreet of his glances towards Kathryn. *Curiosity, Mr. Paris, killed the cat* "Is there something you wanted to say Tom?" His voice held the hint of a threatening tone.

Tom quickly turned back to his console. "No sir."

"Good. Then keep your mind on your work, and not on matters that don't concern you."

*Tell that to Harry, Chakotay.* "Yes sir." He glanced at Harry with a warning look that said, *If I go down, I'm taking you with me.*

Chakotay noticed Harry shift his weight to avoid Tom's gaze. *Shit, these two are up to something, or worse.* He leaned back in his chair and tried to read the report once again, but his eyes continued to study the two young men under his command. *Surely, they don't know. How could they?* His mind tried to recount the events of the previous evening. No one had seen them in the corridor, and he had made sure that no one saw him leave her quarters this morning. So what if someone had seen him enter her quarters last night after his shift? They'd spent many an evening in one another's company that should come as no surprise. But the entire evening? That was another matter. He glanced from Harry back to Tom and then back again. He suspected both of them knew something. Hell, the whole crew suspected that there was something between he and Kathryn; more than just a mere command relationship, but proving it was another matter entirely. They'd been so careful to suppress their feelings after New Earth...perhaps too careful. He tried to push the thoughts from his mind. He knew Tom would pick up on the subtle vibrations sooner or later. He just wanted it to be later - much later. Despite the turn of events of last night, he knew Kathryn too well. The fact was, this ship and this crew came first before their own needs and desires, and she'd shut him out of her life if she felt their relationship would jeopardize that fact. He sighed. *Just how long can we keep this little charade up Kathryn? How long before we either let them know, or go back to the way we were?* He shuddered at the thought. *Hell, Chakotay, you can never go back to the way you were. It would kill you.*

His thoughts were interrupted by the Captain's voice through his comm badge. "Commander Chakotay, please report to my ready room."

"On my way, Captain. Tuvok, you have the bridge."

He couldn't help but feel Tom's eyes following him as he approached the doors to her ready room. He glanced at the pilot quickly, warning him silently to keep his mouth shut. As the doors slid open, he noticed a smile creep over Tom's face and he wanted to slap him for it. *Shit, he knows.*

********

As the doors closed behind him, he sighed heavily as his gaze turned towards Kathryn.

"Is there a problem?" Kathryn raised her eyes to meet his gaze.

"Nothing I can't handle." Chakotay replied, visibly frustrated. He knew inwardly that if the crew knew any indication of their involvement before Kathryn was ready, he'd risk losing her to those damn Starfleet regulations and Protocol.

She studied him for a moment. Four years by his side had taught her one thing. She knew when he was upset about something. "Chakotay?" She rose from her desk and walked over to stand in front of him. She placed her hand on his chest, and felt him tense suddenly. Looking deep into his eyes, she searched for the answer to her question. "What's wrong?"

"I told you. Nothing." He inhaled deeply to calm his nerves. After last night, he knew she could read him like an open book.

She smiled ruefully, deciding to press the point further. "You know, Chakotay, you shouldn't let Tom get to you like that. He's been speculating about us ever since that virus and our stay on New Earth."

Chakotay looked down at her in disbelief. "Am I that transparent?"

She pressed her hand against his chest harder, her other tracing a line up his arm to his shoulder. She could feel him quiver at her touch, and she smiled. "Oh, after last night, I can see right through you, my love." Her smile turned mischievous, as if she had X-Ray vision.

His eyes darkened with desire as a wicked grin crossed his lips. "Really? Prove it." He took a step forward to wrap his arms around her, but she quickly pulled away from him and side stepped back towards her desk.

"Oh no you don't. We have work to do, Commander." Her voice betrayed her. It was filled with mounting desire. She continued to back away from him.

"We have all day to work Captain. We owe ourselves a moment of play." He stalked her around her desk like a skilled hunter after his prey.

"All work and no play makes Chakotay a dull boy, is that it?" Her grin was wicked and playful, taunting him to follow her.

"You have only to sharpen me, my love." His voice was throaty as his breath quickened.

She threw her head back as she backed towards the upper level. "Sharpen your wit? Your reflexes? Your mind? Whatever do you mean? You really must explain, Commander. Such vague assertions may only lead to confusion and misrepresentation."

He backed her into the railing, pinning her between his arms as he pressed his body into hers. "Sharpen this, Kathryn." As he leaned over to kiss her, she felt his erection press against her, and she moaned slightly, memories of the night before flooding her senses.

She could feel her loins responding to him, and her breath caught in her mouth. She pulled her head back slightly to avoid his kiss, causing his lips to graze hers lightly. He hesitated for a split second, as she caught the look in his eyes. The look that said he would take her then and there, on the railing of her ready room if she let him. "Chakotay. Please."

He pulled away from her and gazed into her eyes. He could see the desire of a woman, and the facade of a Captain fighting each other. She was right. The ready room was no place for their emotions. Particularly, if they wanted to keep Tom Paris at bay. "You're right. But Gods, Kathryn, why did you have to wear jasmine again this morning? Especially after last night." He was fighting to regain control of his body, as her perfume assaulted his senses and the feel of her body assaulted his groin.

A glint shown in her eyes. She had produced the desired effect. She reached out her hand to touch his cheek, allowing him to kiss the tender flesh of her palm. She couldn't resist the sensations his kiss stirred within her, and she raised her other hand to pull his head lower as her lips parted. Her words were breathless against his mouth as she pressed her mouth to his roughly. "Why the hell did you have to wear that damned cologne again?" Her mouth devoured his, as his arms wrapped around her waist and pulled her into him, the railing serving as support as he pressed his hips into hers.

The kiss began to take a more passionate turn, with his hands stroking her back, as her hands pulled his face to hers. The chirp of her comm badge brought the walls of passion crashing down around them.

"Ensign Kim to the Captain."

She was breathless as Chakotay pulled away from her suddenly, gazing at her through eyes dark with desire and passion. She looked up at him, trying to regain her composure before hitting her badge with a forceful thud. She sighed, a frustrated look in her eyes. *Damn it Harry. Just when I was gaining the upper hand.* "Janeway here. What is it Harry?" She immediately cursed herself at her breathless tone as Chakotay raised an eyebrow and grinned. She hit him against the chest, shooting him a warning look to keep his comments to himself.

"Long range scanners have picked up readings of an M-class planet 80 light years from here."

"On my way. Janeway out." She started to turn away from him and head down the stairs to the lower level.

Chakotay bit his lower lip to keep from breaking out in laughter as he touched her arm. "You'd better fix your lipstick first, Captain."

Kathryn shot him a look of playful indignation, glancing quickly at the bulge in his uniform. "You'd better fix your uniform, too, Commander." And with that, the doors opened and she strode onto the bridge, knowing full well, it would take him more than just a casual moment to regain control. She forced back a grin from her lips as she shot Tuvok a look. *Don't ask. Don't tell, Commander.*

********

Harry couldn't help but notice the manner in which she answered her hail. *That's curious. She sounds almost breathless.* He lowered his head quickly to avoid Tuvok's searching stare. He glanced knowingly at Tom and grinned. One month's worth of rations was as good as his.

********

Chakotay glanced at the chronometer. It read 1900 hours. He stretched against the back of the couch. "Do you realize we've been at this for over ten hours, non stop? I don't know about you but I'm famished. Join me for dinner?"

Kathryn wiggled her toes. Her boots were lying close by where she had shed them earlier. "Of course. Replicator rations or one of Neelix's experiments?"

Chakotay grinned. "One of Neelix's experiments. I'm saving my rations for a special occasion."

Kathryn glanced over at him with a glint of mischief. "Special occasion? What?"

"Oh, I'm not saying a word. You'll just have to wait and see."

She straightened her back. "I will not, Commander, you tell me what you have up your sleeve. That's an order."

A devilish look crossed his face. "No, I won't."

Her eyes narrowed. "Then I'll just have to throw you in the brig for directly disobeying an order from your commanding officer."

His eyes flashed with desire and mischief. "After what just happened, do you really think you can keep me locked up, away from you, for any length of time?"

She inhaled deeply. "I've done just fine on my own for four years, thank you very much."

Chakotay leaned over towards her, lightly grazing his hand over her mound, his eyes dark with passion. "Ah, yes, but you must admit you enjoyed having a man do it."

Kathryn tried to push herself away as her breath caught in her throat at the touch of his hand once again on her still sensitive area. "I'll admit it was enjoyable."

He pressed his hand against her once more as her body arched slightly. "Enjoyable? You thought it more than that and you know it. Admit it."

"I'll admit nothing." She stiffened to avoid his touch as her nerves ignited.

"Oh come on, Kathryn, wasn't it exciting?" His lips were near hers as he pressed forward.

"Perhaps." She pushed herself deeper into the corner of the couch.

"Perhaps? Tell me one time that you've done it like this by yourself."

She closed her eyes to the onslaught of his touch. His cologne was dulling her senses once again. "No, I will not."

"You won't, or you can't?" His eyes narrowed as he pinned her against the pillows.

"No! You're not going to get me to tell you."

"That's because you can't, Kathryn." His grin turned wicked as his lips grazed hers. He leered at her playfully. "Tell me one time that you've ever made love to yourself while you were still fully dressed in a Starfleet uniform, in your ready room, on duty."

"Chakotay, I..." Her lips responded to his.

"You can't do it can you? Because you've never done it! Admit it". His hand rubbed the fabric of her uniform lightly, causing her to shudder beneath him.

"No. Now let me up before someone comes in." She was fighting to regain control.

"Admit it and I'll let you up." His grin only broadened at the response his touch was receiving.

Kathryn's breath quickened at the thought of him bringing her to climax again. Just the mere thought of him making love to her while they were still fully clothed sent shivers down her spine. She still couldn't believe his own self control earlier while he played with her like a cat playing with its prey. *Damn you Chakotay. You don't play fair.* She looked up at him and inhaled deeply. "Oh all right! I've never done it with my clothes on! Satisfied?"

"Perfectly. But are you?" He raised his eyebrows and grinned.

Her face became defiant. "Yes! Now get off of me."

He stole one more kiss and pushed himself away from her. He reached over to the table and handed her another PADD. "Here, keep your mind on your work Captain."

She struggled to control her breathing as she narrowed her eyes, and grabbed the PADD from his hand. "Damn you, Chakotay. You did that deliberately!"

"You asked for it."

"How?"

"By threatening me with insubordination." He didn't look at her, his eyes fixed on the PADD he held in his own hand, but his eyes flashed once again.

"And I can still do it, too!"

He tilted his head slightly. "Careful Kathryn. Don't raise your voice too loud. I might have to silence you again."

"Oh, and that's another thing! How dare you do that!"

Chakotay turned to face her, his eyes dark with passion, and his lips twisted in a devilish grin once again. "If I hadn't put my hand over your mouth when you came that last time, Tuvok would've been in here with a team of security believing I was trying to kill you."

She had to bite her lower lip to keep from laughing at the thought that sight would've made. His right rubbing the area between her legs, as her body arched against him, her eyes wide with desire, and her First Officer's hand over her mouth to silence her cries of passion. And all the while, her fully dressed in her uniform. "That would've made for an interesting Chief Security Officers log at that." She kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Now come on, Commander. Like you said, we've been reviewing these reports for close to ten hours. Let's get something to eat." She pulled her boots on.

"I offered that earlier too, but you didn't want to get out of uniform." He rose and helped her to her feet, his dimples deepening with mischief.

She hit him on the chest. "Just you wait until I get 'you' out of uniform Commander." Her eyes locked on his, foretelling of what was to be, before pushing him towards the doors that led from her ready room to the bridge.

********

Tom and Harry were hovered in the corner of the mess hall when their commanding officers entered and walked toward the window to Neelix's kitchen. They quickly glanced at one another.

"Harry, are you sure about this?"

"I know I am. Seven saw them in the corridor, kissing."

"Is she sure they were kissing?"

Harry mimicked Seven's stoic tone. "Her exact words were 'I do not see the relevance of a throat examination when both arms are wrapped around the waist, and ones mouth is pressed against the patients. A complete visual inspection of the infected area cannot be performed in this manner.' Now what does that mean to you?"

"Maybe she misinterpreted what she saw."

Harry only rolled his eyes. "Tom, she's half Borg. They don't misinterpret anything." Their eyes followed the Captain and First Officer to the other side of the room.

Harry spoke first. "Wouldn't you say they're walking a bit closer than normal?"

Tom sighed. "Or that protocol would dictate."

"Exactly. And they were cloistered in her ready room for close to ten hours today."

"That's nothing. Remember our last run in with Species 8472? They spent close to eighteen hours in her ready room going over our plan of attack."

"Maybe so, but they didn't engage the privacy lock." Harry's voice was smug.

"You're joking?"

Harry raised an eyebrow. "No I'm not, Tom. I tried to hail her one time, and the privacy lock was engaged."

"Damn. In her ready room? That's playing with fire. What did Tuvok say?"

"He was already off duty. It wasn't important so I didn't much think about it at the time."

"Why didn't you say something to me?" Tom exclaimed, "This is juicy stuff! Captain Janeway engaging the privacy lock on her ready room, while the Commander is with her!!"

"It wasn't the Captain that engaged the lock, Tom."

"Chakotay?"

Harry nodded, his smile broadening.

"So, beneath that gentleman's exterior lies the heart of a scoundrel."

"It would appear so."

"I always knew there was something about Chakotay I liked after all."

They watched as the Captain and Commander sat opposite one another and began to eat their meal, casually laughing and talking as if they were the only two people in the room.

********

"I see Harry and Tom are conspiring again." Kathryn glanced sideways across the room, not wanting to direct her gaze at her two subordinate officers.

"Probably making out the odds in tonight's betting pool at Sandrine's."

Kathryn looked at him and smiled. "So, Commander, I take it you haven't been able to put a stop to gambling on board this ship."

"I'm afraid not Captain. The betting is as brisk as ever." He grimaced at the forkful of food he just placed in his mouth and reached for the seasoning.

"I wonder what the odds on favorite are tonight?"

Taking another bite, he smiled, satisfied that he had disguised the taste. "Oh, I suspect us."

"Us? We've given them no reason to suspect anything in the last twenty four hours?"

"Well, not exactly."

Kathryn lowered her fork and looked at Chakotay. "What do you mean, not exactly?"

"I think Harry is probably filling Tom in on the fact that the privacy lock to the ready room was engaged for twenty three minutes earlier this evening."

"Chakotay, you didn't!" She practically dropped her fork.

"Well, I didn't think it would be a good idea to have you seen bucking wildly against my hand as the throes of passion overcame you in a moment of weakness." His grin was almost sinister.

She bit her lower lip to keep from smiling. "Oh, you are definitely going to pay for that mister. Leave it to those two, and the whole ship will know about it before midnight!"

"They won't know anything - they'll just suspect, which they've been doing for quite some time now. You said yourself, Tom has suspected something ever since we came back from New Earth."

"Yes, but now, you've given him some ammunition!" Kathryn's face was red with embarrassment.

"Ammunition maybe, but I didn't help him load the gun. You did that when you agreed to join me for dinner after being in my company for over twelve hours, ten of which were spent behind closed doors." His face was beaming with mischief.

She felt herself flush. He had baited her, and reeled her in, hook, line and sinker. With Tom and Harry supplying the net. *Oh well, Kathryn, you might as well admit it. After last night, you've been walking on air all day, with the distinct look of arousal in your eyes and in your cheeks. If Tom didn't suspect anything before, he certainly would now. He is, after all, in love with a half Klingon and more in tune to sexual arousal than perhaps anyone on board, save for Tuvok. Tuvok! Oh my God! Did he smell my arousal earlier when I left the ready room the first time? Shit! Now the whole crew will know I'm in love with Chakotay...or at least in lust with him.* She smiled at the thought. Lust or not, she was in love with her First Officer, and she couldn't help it, not anymore. She fixed her eyes on his, and narrowed her gaze, attempting to threaten him, but only fueling the fire she knew had been ignited earlier, and was probably ready to rage out of control. "Chakotay, just wait until I get my hands on you. You'll wish I had thrown you in the brig to escape what I have in mind."

"Really? I had no idea you ran a ship of the damned, Captain. Are you going to have me flogged for disobedience?" His eyes darkened with desire as he stared at her.

Kathryn's grin turned wicked. "Flogging is the least of your worries, Commander." Her eyes flashed a desire that made Chakotay swallow hard to keep from choking. She deliberately parted her lips slightly and moistened them with her tongue. Her grin broadened at the effect it was having on her First Officer. She was going to make him pay for those twenty three minutes if it was the last thing she did.

Chakotay felt his breath quicken and closed his eyes to the sight before him. *Damn you Kathryn, not in the mess hall. I just can't get up and leave with an erection the size of a photon torpedo.* He opened his eyes to find her licking her spoon slowly, methodically. He forced back a gasp. *Gods Kathryn!* He inhaled deeply, his voice cracking slightly. "If you'll excuse me Captain, I'm going to take a shower."

"Oh, by all means, Commander, don't let me stop you." She licked the spoon one last time before licking her lips erotically.

With a slight moan, Chakotay got up and headed out the door quickly. She was still smiling when Tom and Harry walked by, stopping briefly to say hello.

Tom studied her carefully, before glancing down at Chakotay's unfinished dinner. "The Commander didn't finish his dinner. Is he feeling ill?"

Kathryn glanced up at him. *Oh what the hell, I'm entitled to have some fun too.* She smiled a Cheshire smile. "No, something just came up and he had to leave."

Harry and Tom quickly looked at one another in disbelief, neither one believing what the Captain had just said. Harry raised an eyebrow in a manner that would make even Seven proud. "Nothing serious I hope."

Kathryn rose to her feet and deposited her tray on the counter before turning to the two young men standing behind her. *Let's see just how much that pool is worth.* She grinned at them wickedly. Nothing I can't handle. Good evening gentlemen." And with that she walked out, leaving them to pick their jaws up off the floor.

********

She quickly glanced up and down the corridor, waiting for a few straggling crewmembers before keying in her override code. A wicked grin crossed her lips as the doors slid open and she stepped inside the dimly lit quarters. She removed her boots by the door and softly walked across the living quarters to the bedroom. She could hear the sonic shower, and smiled at the thoughts invading her mind. *I'd better make sure that water is warm.* She lowered her head and spoke softly. "Computer, what is the current temperature of Commander Chakotay's shower?"

"Current temperature is 47 degrees centigrade."

"Increase temperature of sonic shower gradually by 20 degrees." She quickly unzipped her uniform and shed her bra and panties, quietly walking into the bathroom. As he turned his back, she slipped in behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist.

Chakotay jumped out of his skin as he turned to face her. "Gods! Kathryn! You scared the shit out of me!"

"Serves you right for leaving me in the mess hall like you did." She took the sponge from his hand and added more soap to it, running it over his chest. Her other hand trailing a pattern in the lather.

He gazed into her eyes, as her fingers glided over his chest. He raised his hands and placed them on her shoulders. "I needed to leave before I embarrassed myself, and you with me." He lowered his head to kiss her.

She pulled her head away and grinned at him. "Couldn't take the heat, Commander?"

"Not the way you were licking that spoon, Captain."

She grinned devilishly as she lowered her hand to grasp his balls firmly. That's not all I plan on licking, Commander." She slowly knelt down in front of him, reaching her hands behind him to grasp his buttocks and pull him towards her.

Chakotay threw his head back in anticipation, gasping as her mouth covered him. His hands gripped her shoulders. "Gods, Kathryn. Please, let's go to the bedroom."

She gripped his cheeks tighter and pressed his shaft into her, tightening her mouth as her tongue flicked around the head. Her eyes locked on his, as she released him long enough to speak. "I'm fine right where I am. But, I suggest you grab something for support Chakotay. You're not getting out of this shower without first giving me something I want." She licked the length of his shaft slowly.

He looked down at her, his eyes darkening with desire as his breath quickened. "What's that?"

"Your release." She lowered her mouth onto him once again as he groaned in delight. Soft erotic moans escaping her lips as her own loins grew wet with desire.

His eyes closed as her hands joined her mouth in the relentless ministrations of his hardened member. He tried to raise her but she only gripped him tighter with her mouth and pushed his hands away. "Kathryn, please..."

"Oh, but paybacks are so much fun, aren't they, Chakotay?" Her hands stroked him, pressing her fingers against his perineum as she teased the head until it was dark with his straining release. Each time he tried to raise her gently, she'd push his hands away, nipping and biting at the tip as he quivered and shuddered within her grasp. "You need this, Chakotay, and I want to give it to you just as badly. Now let me finish..." Her voice was husky as she spoke the same words he had spoken to her only twenty four hours earlier, this time with determination and raging passion. She gazed up at him with eyes that spoke of her own wants and desires. "I told you I'd make you pay for those twenty three minutes."

Her breath was hot and quick against his skin, as her eyes grew dark. Her hands gripped him firmly as her mouth and tongue sucked and licked him past the point of no return. She felt his shaft quiver in her mouth, close to release, and moaned in delight. Her left hand travelling down to part her own folds and press against her hardened nub. As she stroked her own desire, she matched her ministrations with her other hand and mouth, driving him closer and closer to the edge.

He groaned as he felt his control waning rapidly, his eyes closing to the sight before him. *By all the Gods!! I can't believe this. This has got to be a dream. A very wet dream! We're in the shower and she's actually on her knees in front of me, giving me a....* He leaned back against the wall of the shower as he felt his legs begin to buckle, his mind acing at the image in front of him. Kathryn Janeway, Captain of a Federation Starship, was giving her First Officer the most incredible blow job he'd ever had. *Oh God. Kathryn, yes, yes...* He moaned her name as he felt the heat surge in his groin. "Kathryn." *Oh shit, I need to warn her.*

He tried to pull her head away but she clamped her mouth down and grabbed his buttocks, forcing him deep within her throat as she caught his full release, moaning in ecstasy, as her own loins released their slick lubrication on her thighs. She placed both hands behind him to steady him as she stroked the back of his legs gently, slowly releasing him from her mouth. She smiled as she gazed up at him. His head was thrown back against the wall of the shower as his legs shuddered from his release. "Mmmm, relaxed?" she asked playfully.

He slowly lowered his head and opened his eyes to gaze into her face. *Gods! She just took my full load, and the little vixen enjoyed it.* His breath caught in his throat as she licked her lips for his benefit, before stroking his shaft once more. He struggled to force the words out of his mouth, his breath coming in quick gasps. "Yes."

She slowly raised up, stroking his thighs and sides before resting her hands on his chest. "Good. I wouldn't want you to be tense for what I have in mind." She smiled up at him wickedly before pulling his head down to claim his mouth in a passionate kiss.

He gazed deep into her eyes, sparking with mischief. His voice thick with passion. "The brig? Or flogging, Captain?"

"I was thinking more along the lines of having you drawn and quartered." Her eyes widened with desire as she licked her lips once more, pleased with the effect it had on him.

Chakotay groaned and swept her into his arms. "Computer, stop shower." He exited the shower, not bothering to dry either of them off and carried her to the bedroom. As he laid her down on the bed, she pulled him on down on top of her, swiftly and forcefully pushing him onto his back. Her movements caught him completely off guard and before he knew it she was on top of him. "Kathryn!"

"Do you trust me?" She raised his hands over his head and gazed deep into his eyes.

"What?"

"Do you trust me?"

"Of course I do."

"Then lie still and don't fight me; let me do this my way Chakotay, please." She kissed him tenderly on the cheek before parting her lips to kiss him on the mouth. Her hands gripped his, as she pressed her breasts against his chest.

His eyes studied her as he relaxed beneath her. Her face said it all. She wanted to be in control tonight. And the sheer passion in those deep blue eyes melted what manly resistance he had left. "I'm putty in your hands, Kathryn."

"Then lie back, keep your hands where they are, and let me show you the way to paradise." She lowered her lips to his cheek, lightly grazing his tattoo. "I've wanted to do this for so long. Please let me pleasure you like you did to me last night. Please, Chakotay."

"Do what you will with me, Kathryn." He closed his eyes to the touch of her lips and the warmth of her breath against his cheek. "Take me to wherever you wish."

She gazed deep into his eyes once more. "Then I shall begin." She took one of his hands in hers and pressed it to her lips. "Close your eyes and relax, my love. Clear your mind. Forget your troubles. Forget your past. Remember only that I love you. I love you, Chakotay. I love you..." She repeated the words softly against the palm of his hand, lightly grazing her lips across the fleshy part between his thumb and forefinger. She slowly licked each finger with the tip of her tongue, pausing to gently suckle each digit in turn. She repeated the process on the other hand as slowly as she had the first, whispering her words of love against his skin as his breath deepened.

She suckled the underside of each wrist before tracing a line with her tongue and fingers up the insides of his arms, back down the outside, and then back up again to the base of his neck. There, she paused and nibbled and kissed the nape of his neck on both sides as he tilted his head back to allow her access. He moaned softly as she nibbled and kissed each earlobe, gently blowing into his ear, as she whispered, "I love you..."

Her hands stroked his chest slowly, lovingly, pausing to twirl each nipple before taking it in her mouth to gently caress and tease it with her tongue. She placed her hands on his hardened chest muscles and watched in awe as they rose and fell with each breath from his lips. Soft moans of delight escaped his lips as she traversed farther down his torso to his abdomen. There, she flicked her tongue over his belly button, causing him to gasp as she twirled her finger around it in unison.

She shifted slightly, continuing to stroke his sides and hips before traveling down to stroke the outsides of his thighs and calves, finally coming to rest on his feet. She pressed her hands against the arches, gently squeezing the balls of his feet before pressing the underside of his instep with her knuckles. She licked her lips and took each toe in her mouth, sucking each as she had his fingers. She felt him shudder slightly and grinned at the thought. *He's ticklish...*

She began to traverse her way back up the insides of his legs, lightly at first, and then slowly increasing the pressure as she neared his genital area, stopping to nip and bite the sides of his knees. She trailed her fingers along the length of his shaft, and around his tightening sacks. Slowly and gently, she raked her fingernails along the sides of his scrotum and the area where it met the upper part of his thighs. He groaned once more, tears welling in his eyes as his desire mounted. "Ah, Kathryn," he murmured, bringing his hands to her shoulders.

She gently pushed his hands away and smiled. *Mmmmm, he likes that.* "Sssh, my love, be patient...make it last. Here, roll over." She shifted so she could direct him onto his stomach, allowing him long enough to position his hardened shaft beneath him before continuing the onslaught of his senses.

As she had caressed the front of his legs, so she began the ministrations to their backs, once again pausing to nip and bite the backs of his knees, causing him to shudder beneath her, groaning once more. Her tongue and hands sent shards of hot liquid fire through his veins. Her hands kneaded his buttocks as she straddled him, her moist heat trickling down the inside of his right thigh, causing him to gasp and moan her name. "Gods, Kathryn. Please."

"In due time, my love, in due time." Her hands continued to massage his buttocks and lower back, pressing outward across his ribs. Her tongue and thumbs were trailing a line of heat up the center of his back, along his spine, as she kissed the base of his neck.

His breath was now thick with desire at her every touch, her slick folds gently caressing him. She lowered her breasts to graze across his back, causing him to arch in response, moaning once more. "Kathryn, please!"

She whispered softly in his ear. "Very well then, let me gaze into your eyes as I take you over the edge to paradise." She raised her hips and allowed him to turn over, but grasped his hands as they attempted to grip her shoulders. "No, no, my love, let me guide you." She pressed his hands over his head as she caressed his hard shaft with her folds, moistening him with her heat before raising her hips and taking him completely in one stroke.

Chakotay gasped and arched in response, his hips thrusting to meet her own. Her hands and mouth had ignited every nerve in his body, and tears of love were streaming down his cheeks. He could not believe the time she had taken to explore every muscle, every nerve, and every erotic part of his body. His words were caught in his throat, but his eyes revealed the passion and love he felt for her, the woman he had given his heart and soul to.

Kathryn rolled her hips against his as she gazed into his eyes. They were filled with tears. Her own welled with tears at the sight of his emotions, once again, so open for her and her alone. "I love you Chakotay. Come with me, come with me now...to paradise." Her rocking increased in rhythm and pressure as she felt him tighten and tense beneath her. She reached behind her and slowly circled the opening to his anus, hesitant to press further. *What if he doesn't like it. I don't want to hurt you, my love. Tell me what to do, show me what you want.* As if answering her, Chakotay writhed beneath her, moaning softly as he thrust his hips toward her finger, causing it to slide into the tight opening of his anus. She smiled at the pleasure he received from the sensation and pressed her thumb against his perineum once more, driving him closer and closer to the edge.

He moaned in response and thrust his hips against hers, matching her rhythm. He gripped the pillows over his head as he arched beneath her, crying out her name as she tightened around him with such force that he threw his head from side to side, momentarily blinded by the shards of light his passion ignited. "Kathryn!!!!"

Her breaths were quick as she felt his heated release deep within her inner folds, sending her over the edge once more. Her body tensed and shuddered as her climax exploded, her voice joining his. Gradually, her body relaxed, every cell pulsing with joy. "Chakotay," she whispered as she lowered herself onto his chest, her breathing matching his as her afterglow caressed his swollen and sensitive shaft.

Her hands once again, stilled the pain of his release as she stroked his tattoo lovingly, gently placing butterfly kisses on his cheeks and forehead before kissing him tenderly on his mouth. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer as he shuddered with his own aftershocks. He could only murmur her name softly, his energy drained with his emotions that were pouring down his cheeks. "Kathryn, I love you."

"Sssh, just lie still; let me soothe your pain and still your body Chakotay. Let me guide you once again." Her hands stroked his hair gently, and as she rolled off of him, she entwined one hand in his as her other caressed his shoulders, chest, abdomen, and legs, slowly, methodically, lovingly, until he was sound asleep in her arms once more.

********

Tom took a drink of beer from the frosted mug the waitress had brought to their table, winked at B'Elanna and turned back to Harry. "Your break, Harry."

Harry chalked the tip of the cue as Seven looked on in bewilderment. Her optical implant raised as she spoke. "What do you intend on breaking Ensign?"

Harry rolled his eyes. The object of his affection could be so Borg at times. "It's another figure of speech Seven. A term used when playing pool, billiards. Oh why do I even bother. Just watch, Seven, okay?" He leaned over the table and took aim at the cue ball in front of him. The balls seemed to break effortlessly, with a striped one rolling neatly into the corner pocket. "That's five rations you owe me, Tom."

B'Elanna bit her lower lip to keep from laughing. It was Harry's night. He had successfully pocketed at least one ball, on his first break, five times in a row. She glanced at Tom's face with amusement. He was frustrated. It had been a long time since he lost at his own game. "What's the matter, Tom? Afraid you're luck has run out?"

Tom stiffened with pride. "Not at all. Just can't believe Harry's sudden run of luck lately. At least I know I've got him beat in one other matter."

Harry took his glass from Seven as she handed it to him. "I wouldn't be so sure about that, Tom. Remember, we still have 15 minutes before midnight, and my money, my rations are on the Captain."

Seven looked up at her date for the evening. Humans were still a mystery to her. Why the Borg had ever decided to assimilate them, she could only now wonder. "I fail to see the relevance in this bet as you choose to call it. How can your rations be on the Captain, when she is not present?"

Tom rolled his eyes. "Seven, it's a figure of..."

Harry stopped him. "Save it Tom. Trust me on this one."

"Well, figure of speech or not, my money is on the Commander."

"Why? Because of his track record?" B'Elanna grinned at him mischievously.

"No. Look, we all know that Chakotay is in love with the Captain. But the question is does she love him?"

Harry swallowed another gulp of his drink and smiled. "You just don't want to admit that what Seven saw in the corridor was a mutual kiss."

"I didn't say that. I have no doubt that what Seven saw was a kiss, but you have to remember, yesterday was her birthday."

B'Elanna knitted her Klingon brow. "And I thought you were a hopeless romantic."

Tom leaned over and kissed her. "Only where you're concerned. Come on you guys. I want to see the two of them together as much as you do, but let's face it, they've avoided the subject ever since they returned from New Earth, and even more so after our little run in with Species 8472. Remember that? They were at odds with each other for days."

Harry couldn't be swayed. "Then how do you explain the privacy lock on her ready room earlier today?"

"They were probably deep in a heated conversation, and didn't want to be disturbed." Tom took another swallow, glancing quickly at the clock.

"You don't believe that, Tom, and you know it. Why don't you just admit defeat and go down gracefully."

"It's not midnight yet, Harry. I won't admit defeat until I have to."

Seven raised her implant and looked at Tom. Just like a human. "Harry did tell you who ordered the privacy lock. I do not see your insistence that you will still win this bet."

B'Elanna turned her face away as she watched Tom stiffen once more. His ego getting the better of him." So what if Chakotay ordered the privacy lock earlier? That doesn't prove a thing."

Harry sat on the edge of the pool table. "Then how do you explain the comments earlier in the mess hall."

"She was joking, Harry. She did it just to get even with us for trying to get her goat."

"What if she wasn't Tom? What if she was serious?" Harry tilted his head in amusement.

Tom looked at Harry and grinned. "Well, I guess well know in a minute now won't we?"

"I guess we will. And I'll be one month richer in rations." Harry's face was as stoic as Seven's.

Silently, they watched the clock on the wall of Sandrine's slowly tick the final seconds to midnight. As the clock chimed its twelfth chime, B'Elanna glanced at both Tom and Harry. "Computer. Please give location of Captain Janeway."

"Captain Janeway is in Commander Chakotay's quarters."

Tom shifted slightly and Harry inhaled calmly. B'Elanna smiled. "Computer, please give location of Commander Chakotay."

"Commander Chakotay is in his quarters."

B'Elanna could only grin at the prospect the computer's stoic voice revealed to the four people gathered around the pool table. *This is going to get interesting* "Computer, please give status of Captain Janeway."

"Captain Janeway is asleep."

A small smile began to creep across Harry's lips, as Tom glared at him. "That doesn't prove a thing. Computer! Give status of Commander Chakotay."

"Commander Chakotay is also asleep."

B'Elanna bit her lip again to hide her delight from Tom. "Computer, can you scan vital signs and determine endocrine levels and status of bodily fluids?"

"Negative. Privacy lock is engaged."

Harry's smile had broadened to a wide grin, as Seven raised her optical implant. Tom's eyes rolled. B'Elanna continued, "How long has privacy lock been engaged?"

"Privacy lock currently engaged for four hours, forty seven minutes, and fifteen seconds."

Harry remained silent, but Tom spoke, his voice faltering briefly, his nerve waning. "Computer. How long have Captain Janeway and Commander Chakotay been asleep?"

"One hour, thirty three minutes and fifty five seconds."

Tom gripped the side of the pool table. Harry glanced at B'Elanna, then at Seven. "Computer, who ordered the privacy lock?"

"Captain Janeway."

As Seven's optical implant raised to a new height, B'Elanna fell off her chair, Tom's knees buckled, and Harry finished his drink, calmly turning to face Tom. "I believe you owe me one month's worth of rations."

********

Chakotay stirred and shifted to wrap his arm around the woman in his arms. He couldn't help but notice the small smile on her face. "Kathryn? Are you asleep?"

She curled into his arms. "Not really. Just thinking."

"Thinking about what?"

Her eyes opened and gazed up at him, her eyes sparking with mischief as she spoke. "The betting pool."

Chakotay's face registered mixed bewilderment and amusement at her remark. "The betting pool? What on earth for?"

She stroked his cheek and entwined her fingers in his hair, before kissing him tenderly. "Oh, I was just wondering what the odds are right now."

Chakotay looked down at her, hesitant to ask his next question. "Odds on what? Us?"

"Nope." Her mouth twisted into a grin.

"Then what?" His eyes narrowed as a giggle escaped her lips. "Kathryn?"

"Who ordered the privacy lock on your quarters over four hours ago."

Her giggle turned into a joyful laugh as his eyes flew open, and his jaw dropped in disbelief.

********END PART ONE********