New fic: Compass Rose, 5/7, Star Trek: Voyager, J/7
Title: Compass Rose
Author: chilly_flame
Fandom: Voyager
Pairing: J/7
Rating: M
Disclaimer: All the characters included herein are property of Paramount. Alas.
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Kathryn wrapped her hands around Seven’s neck, heartbeat thudding strongly in her ears. She’d never been handled so easily by any lover, and had certainly never been carried to the bedroom like this. It wasn’t seemly for an Admiral to be swept off her feet by anyone, but she was willing to make an exception this time.
And maybe the next.
Seven kicked open a door, and moments later Kathryn was sprawled on a bed, crushed by six feet of delicious flesh. Seven’s tongue dueled with hers, and she pulled at Seven’s shirt. Pushing her away for a moment, she yanked at the buttons, tossing the scrap of material off the bed when she was successful. Her lover still wore a one-piece bathing suit, so that was going to have to come off after the shorts. But Seven had paused to stare at her oddly. “Oh,” she said.
Through her haze of desire, Kathryn hadn’t paid much attention to her surroundings. But now she realized she’d never been in this room before. It was twice the size of her and Seven’s current quarters, and she lay atop a queen-sized bed. Soft light glowed from elegant lanterns, and the scent of flowers hung in the air. And there was something in her hair… She felt around, and several pink petals came away in her hand. Glancing over her shoulder, she realized the bed was covered with them. “Oh,” Kathryn echoed.
Seven nodded toward a champagne bottle chilling nearby. “Josiah left us something. I guess this is it.”
“These are lovely quarters… I take it they were left off the tour deliberately?” Kathryn asked, eyebrow raised.
Seven shrugged. “Perhaps it was unnecessary, but I had to find a way to share space with you without making it too… obvious.”
“Understandable.” Her legs twined with smooth limbs, and she rubbed her calves against Seven’s. A chill spread through her at the sensation, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood at attention. “You feel heavenly.”
Seven brushed a lock of hair off Kathryn’s forehead, lips curving gently. She pressed her mouth to the spot, traveling down her cheek, to her ear and back again. “Kathryn,” she whispered.
“Yes?”
Seven sighed, her breath warm and sweet. “I only wanted to say your name. To remind myself that you’re here, that this is happening.”
“It is.” Kathryn reached up and pulled her down for another kiss. Seven tasted of salt, chocolate, and that indefinable flavor that Kathryn felt sure she’d always be able to identify from now on. “I’m having a hard time believing it myself.”
“Then we must remind each other now and then.” Seven’s expression shifted briefly, and Kathryn was immediately alert. She waited. “This is an inopportune moment to bring it up, but when we get back to… the real world, your work, and mine, will we be together?” The last word was pronounced so apprehensively it nearly brought tears to Kathryn’s eyes.
“Yes.” It seemed astonishing that it was even a question, but she wouldn’t laugh at Seven’s worries; she had a share of them herself. “If that’s what you want.”
“It’s very much what I want. The details… can wait.” The seductive smile had returned, anxiety banished by Kathryn’s reassurance.
“Agreed.”
Seven’s kisses began once more in earnest, and Kathryn felt the world swimming around her as she explored the texture of full lips. It felt indulgent, the perfect pressure of a slick tongue moving against hers. She squirmed as Seven fitted herself more firmly between her thighs. Already she felt a river of wetness pouring from her, and though she was mildly embarrassed, she didn’t hide it when Seven pulled her clothes slowly away from her body piece by piece. When she was naked, she fought the urge to cover herself, enjoying Seven’s wide eyed expression. She looked so stunned at that moment that Kathryn wondered how much experience she had. “You’ve done this before, right?”
Seven nodded distantly. “I have had four partners, including two females, but I will admit only to you Kathryn, that no amount of experience could have prepared me for this moment.” She swallowed. “You are exquisite. So delicate,” she said, trailing gentle fingers down Kathryn’s breastbone, past her ribcage. “So different from me.”
“Show me,” Kathryn said, her throat thick with desire.
Moments later, Seven had peeled her suit away, leaving her bare before Kathryn’s gaze. “Come here,” Kathryn whispered, “so I can touch you.”
Seven followed her instructions. Kathryn’s nipples stiffened at the sensation of full breasts brushing hers. For a moment, she wondered if she’d survive this encounter; already she was overwhelmed. Gazing upward, everything she felt was mirrored in ice blue eyes--love, passion, astonishment, happiness. When she lifted her knee, she brushed the apex of Seven’s legs. The body above her shuddered and Seven’s eyes fell shut with a groan. She was already panting. “Kathryn, I have often dreamed of making our first time last all night, but I fear I can not.”
“No problem,” Kathryn said quickly. They’d both been on a slow burn all afternoon, and it was time to make a move. She pushed against Seven’s shoulder and rolled atop her, letting out a slow breath as she settled into the cradle of Seven’s hips. Leaning down, she nuzzled the white throat, slowly moving from collarbone to the bountiful flesh of her breasts. She avoided the pink tips until Seven’s movement insisted on more direct attention. As she captured one, and then another, between her teeth, Seven lurched in her embrace. Her head came forward, tendons in her neck standing out in sharp relief. “Oh,” she moaned. “Kath, Kathryn.” Her hips matched the rhythm that Kathryn’s lips set. “Ah, that’s good, oh, yesssss.” Her mutterings urged Kathryn to bring her hands into play. One slipped south, low on Seven’s belly, tangling amidst damp hair and silvery implant. She pulled on the pale strands, and instantly Seven’s legs parted. “Yes,” Seven called, “Kathryn, I can wait no longer. Please touch me.”
Carefully, Kathryn reached down while maintaining contact with Seven’s breast. She found copious moisture, and circled Seven’s opening teasingly. Humming against the flesh in her mouth, she avoided the more sensitive nub, moving inside with precision. Surrounded by walls already tightening against the invasion, she flexed her hand. Seven’s hips jerked up, and Kathryn added a second finger. Seven keened beneath her, head tossing back and forth in a maelstrom of energy. Finally she brought her thumb into play, and only a few strokes later, Seven stilled in her embrace, each muscle strung tight as the pulses began around Kathryn’s fingers. They gripped her digits forcefully, and a joyous cry filled the room. Kathryn felt every contraction as though it were her own.
She watched Seven in the aftermath. Her expression was blissful, mouth open as she struggled to draw breath. The planes and angles of her face were lovely in the soft light, shadows darkening the lines of her cheekbones and the tiny dip of her chin. Even the cortical implant glowed with energy, satisfaction seeping from every pore. Finally, her beloved’s eyes opened. Dark pupils stared out, unseeing at first, as she focused. “Kathryn,” she breathed.
“Yes, darling.”
Seven blinked slowly. “That was… exceptional.”
Though she attempted to hide it, a smug grin crept across her face. “I’m glad to hear it. I enjoyed myself too. So much so that I’d like to give it another go.” She wiggled her fingers, still buried inside Seven.
Seven sat up, biting her lip. “No,” she gasped. In seconds, Seven had maneuvered Kathryn into her lap, and she found her legs wrapped around the narrow waist. Kathryn’s hand was slick, and she brought it to her nose, licking her fingers daintily. Seven’s mouth fastened to hers, and soon she was lost in the heat of the embrace. Hands pulled her closer, massaging her back and shoulders, skimming up to cradle her head. Teeth raked down her neck, surely marking her. But Seven’s soft, soft lips soothed the bruise with unhurried kisses that inflamed Kathryn even further. There seemed to be no spot that Seven didn’t grant her undivided attention, wandering to her shoulders, her collarbone, her breasts.
Her olfactory senses were flooded; skin, sex, flowers, and above it all, Seven herself, overwhelmed her. Seven raised her face, dark, swollen lips demanding a kiss. Long moments later, the world spun as her back met the mattress. One thigh landed between Kathryn’s legs, and Seven’s hand followed its path. Kathryn could hardly tell what her partner was doing; only that it felt incredible. Kathryn began to speak, words of desire and longing leaving her mouth in a stream. But when Seven’s fingers finally moved inside, coherence left her altogether and she was swept up in the motion of her own body. Seven set the pace now, and though she tried to forestall the inevitable, her orgasm built quickly. As Seven called her name, moving against her leg in search of another release, the pleasure exploded through Kathryn, starting at her toes and racing all the way out to the ends of her hair.
But Seven was wild, grunting with effort for a few more seconds before snapping back in a glorious arch above her. Perspiration trickled down her torso, and Kathryn could only watch, awestruck.
Seven’s eyes were heavy lidded, as she looked down. Kathryn felt herself clench around Seven’s fingers in aftershock. “Oh,” Seven moaned, still trying to catch her breath.
Kathryn nodded. That about summed it up.
“I climaxed again,” Seven said, almost apologetically.
With a chuckle, Kathryn replied, “I could tell. You were beautiful.”
“It was… unexpected. The sounds you made, your voice… I-it aroused me greatly.”
Kathryn pulled her down for a languid kiss, and Seven’s hand finally left her as she held herself up. “I’ll keep that in mind for next time.”
“What about now?” Seven asked. “How much recovery time do you need?”
Eyebrow raised, Kathryn grinned. “Not much.” The kiss began anew.
---
Seven gazed at the glass of champagne she held, admiring the way the starlight reflected in the bubbles. Kathryn’s hand stroked her thigh, pulling the blanket more tightly around them both. They shared a single deck chair and watched the moon creep slowly across the sky, taking a break from their lovemaking. Hours had gone by as they explored one another, and Seven could remember no other moment in her life when she felt more at peace. She nuzzled an ear, her teeth grazing the edge. Predictably, Kathryn shivered in response. Over the course of a single evening, she felt as though she’d acquired a map of Kathryn’s body; the places she loved to be touched, those she should avoid, those that brought the greatest pleasure. Her ear was certainly an erogenous zone, as was her neck, and they were both conveniently within reach.
She continued her study of the textures and flavors at her lips until Kathryn leaned back with a groan. “Darling, how did you learn my secrets so quickly?”
Seven put her best Borg voice on. “My eidetic memory provides assistance for more than scientific pursuits, Kathryn. I have acquired knowledge of more than 47 locations on your body that bring gratification of some kind. Shall I demonstrate them now?” she teased.
Kathryn laughed weakly. “In a little while. I’m not as young as I used to be.”
Adding a final kiss to Kathryn’s ear, Seven relaxed against the chair. “You have depleted my resources as well. I did not anticipate you would be so… energetic.”
“I was inspired,” Kathryn replied with a knowing grin. “You really have the most glorious body, darling. I might even say you’re perfection personified.”
“In your eyes,” Seven said softly. “As you are perfection to me.”
Kathryn turned her head and pressed a kiss to her collarbone. They lay in companionable silence for a time, listening only for the sound of the waves lapping at the boat’s hull. A strange sound broke the quiet; when it came again, she realized she was hearing Kathryn’s stomach growl. Seven leaned forward. “I will return momentarily with some sustenance.”
“No, I’m fine. Stay, darling.”
“Patience, Kathryn. I’ll be right back.” Naked, she climbed down the steps and went into the galley. From behind a wooden panel, she accessed the replicator and programmed two servings of pasta, chicken and vegetables. They were going to need a suitable combination of protein and carbohydrates if their earlier activities were going to continue on into the night.
As promised, she returned to Kathryn only minutes later bearing a tray of the pasta, bread and parmesan cheese, along with large glasses of water. “Seven, have you become a magician since I last saw you? You create these concoctions out of thin air, it seems.”
“On this occasion, you are partially correct. I used the replicator.”
“A replicator.” Kathryn shook her head with a smirk. “Another missing part of the tour, I take it.”
“Yes. Dear,” she added, batting her eyes deliberately.
“You’re lucky you’re gorgeous. I was going to give you hell, but you distracted me.”
“That was the idea.” Seven set their meal on a low table and sat cross legged facing Kathryn. They each held their plates on their laps, enjoying their late supper and sipping at the champagne. Seven still had a taste for the beverage, though she was careful not to imbibe too much. She wanted nothing to impair her memory of this evening. They toasted one another and exchanged a few kisses before Seven retook her original position behind Kathryn.
A few minutes later, Kathryn said, “I think I may take you up on your suggestion.”
“Which suggestion is that?”
After a pause, she replied, “The one about becoming a Captain again.”
Seven tightened her hold around Kathryn. “I will assist in any way I can.”
“But darling,” Kathryn said, glancing over her shoulder, “Would you leave the TPG? Go back out into the stars? Because I won’t go without you. Not now, after all this time. I’ve put my career before every relationship I’ve ever had. No more.”
“I believe you will not have to choose one over the other. I could join your vessel as a civilian contractor. And were I not permitted, I would simply resign my post and go with you regardless.”
Kathryn was still. “I wouldn’t want you to abandon your own career for me, Seven.”
Seven considered the prospect of resigning and found herself not even a little uncertain. “Do not misunderstand my dedication to my work, Kathryn. It engages my particular area of expertise, and often it is rewarding in unexpected ways. But make no mistake: it is not a calling. It would cost me nothing to leave it behind. Sometimes I believe that being in space, on a starship… it’s where we both belong. It’s where you found me. Where I grew to know and admire you. Where I learned to love you.”
Kathryn rubbed her face against Seven’s shoulder. “Okay.”
“We could speak to Jean-Luc tomorrow if you like.”
“That’s a little quick, don’t you think?”
Seven shrugged. “It is your decision. It couldn’t hurt to discuss it with him.”
“True… Maybe just a conversation.” Kathryn sighed deeply. “But only after I bring it up to Phoebe and my mother. I don’t want to get things moving before I even mention it to either of them.”
“A wise choice,” Seven said. “Perhaps I could… visit them with you. We met only twice during the briefings, and it was all over so quickly… I would enjoy an opportunity to spend some time with each of them.”
“I think that could be arranged.” Kathryn’s voice turned shy. “Would you come home with me?”
“I would be honored.” She smiled, grateful. She’d been waiting for an official invitation to Bloomington for six years. “I love you, Kathryn.”
“Darling. I know Mom and Phoebe will love you too.”
“Not in the same way, I hope.”
With a chuckle, Kathryn said, “Unlikely. But I wouldn’t put anything past Phoebe.”
“She is a beautiful woman. You look similar, but I have interest in only one Janeway,” Seven said, cupping Kathryn’s breasts under the blanket. The nipples hardened instantly, and Kathryn shifted in her lap. Fingernails scratched at Seven’s thighs, and she could feel the tension that had already leapt between them.
“What is it about you that makes me so insatiable?” Kathryn’s breath stuttered as Seven circled one pebbled bud.
“I think you know, Kathryn,” she muttered into one ear. She nibbled gently before adding, “Resistance is futile.”
Kathryn laughed, throwing her head back just as Seven reached down between her legs. She stiffened, still giggling, before replying, “That is… oh yes, there… the worst joke ever.” Breathing through her nose, she placed one hand over Seven’s. The eroticism was not lost on Seven, who found herself moving in tandem with Kathryn as she stroked. She pulled the blanket away and dropped it on the deck, leaving them exposed to the cool night air. Kathryn’s skin glowed with perspiration under the moonlight, and Seven was entranced by the sight of their two hands bringing her lover pleasure. Her own need was sharp, but Kathryn had neared the edge, her breathing fast and urgent. Low moans rang out in the quiet night, until her hand stilled Seven’s. The world stopped as Kathryn shuddered, pulsing beneath their joined touch.
The fragrance of Kathryn’s hair was intoxicating, flowers and musk blending delightfully. Seven panted, the fire between her legs demanding attention. But she waited, her hips moving gently beneath Kathryn’s.
She was sure Kathryn would drift off to sleep in her depleted state. If only she could reach herself, she could manage it… But before she knew it, her lover had slipped from her grasp and knelt on the deck. Seven felt herself pulled forward, and Kathryn’s mouth descended with intent. Long, slow licks reignited a fire already raging out of control. She cried out, spine bowing as the pleasure skittered across her nerves. Touching Kathryn’s head softly, she savored the moment, staring up and out into the stars. They winked brilliantly, points of light blurring as passion finally overtook her. Kathryn held her legs tightly as she came, and came again, for what seemed the hundredth time that night.
When it was over, she lay still, skin damp with sweat. A glass of water soon appeared above her face, and she reached up to take it. She drank it all, wiping her mouth when she was done. Kathryn crouched near, the half grin too much for Seven to resist. She pulled her close for a wet kiss, tasting herself on Kathryn’s mouth.
After knowing Kathryn for so many years, she’d discovered an entirely new side to the woman. The chemistry she’d expected, or hoped for them to share, was twice or three times that in reality. Her muscles felt loose and relaxed, as though her body had been dipped in warm honey. “Kathryn,” she breathed. They kissed again, tongues entangling. She slid her hands into the soft, auburn hair, reveling in the freedom to touch and hold. “Come to bed. I want to be next to you.”
“I can think of nothing better,” Kathryn replied, standing. She offered a hand to Seven, who took it and followed her downstairs into their cabin. The sheets were strewn everywhere, so as Kathryn straightened them out, Seven deposited their plates and glasses into the recycler. She stepped into the bathroom to wash up, and caught her reflection in the mirror. Had it only been the day before that she’d stood in this very place, wondering if wearing a two-piece bathing suit was too much for Kathryn? She’d been strutting around naked now for the past five hours and heard no complaints thus far. And her expression… She’d never seen that look on her own face before; one of complete satisfaction. She looked somehow more mature, as though she’d learned a secret that she’d been trying to unearth for a long time. Perhaps that was because she’d achieved the single goal that had eluded her all these years.
Kathryn Janeway was hers. And she was going to stay that way, indefinitely.
---
---
Kathryn woke slowly, the gentle rocking of the boat keeping her in a contented doze for a while before she opened her eyes. She blinked through the haze of blonde, catching strands of hair on her eyelashes as she realized she was spooning Seven. She moved a leg, rubbing her thigh against her bottom. The skin was baby soft, and Kathryn caught her breath at the tendril of desire that laced through her belly just at the image of it. Tracing a line from Seven’s hip down her back, she listened for a change in Seven’s breathing to indicate her awareness. When none came, she continued her caress, tickling and smoothing her lower back, implants and all, as she had before. This was one of Seven’s erogenous zones; Kathryn wondered if it was because of the proximity of her regeneration node that spurred it on. No matter, she thought; if it brought Seven pleasure, it was a good thing.
Seven turned on her stomach with a gentle whimper, her eyes moving rapidly beneath closed lids. She was dreaming, so Kathryn took advantage. Her mouth followed the same path that her fingers had, surveying the curious blend of flesh and metal. Seven’s hips began to shift, so Kathryn intensified her touch. Seven whimpered again, her lips parting as her body began to undulate in earnest.
“Kathryn,” she groaned, voice heavy with sleep and desire. “Fuck.” The edge of the profanity thrilled her. She bit the fleshiest part of Seven’s rear, eliciting a lusty grunt from above. She continued her assault, raking her teeth against skin, licking the edges of the silver implant that stretched across the muscled lower back. “Fuck,” Seven repeated, lifting her ass closer to Kathryn’s mouth. The extra space beneath her body gave Kathryn the room she needed to snake her hand under Seven’s hips, pushing inside with her thumb while fingers trapped her clitoris. “Ah,” Seven cried, and Kathryn thrust hard, her own desire heightening with every stroke. Soon Seven rose up onto all fours and Kathryn stayed with her, the roughness of the encounter racing her heart. Seven rode her hand wildly, jerking once, twice, three times before convulsing, a scream tearing from her throat.
Kathryn felt a tiny tremor pulse through her, and gasping for breath, she pressed a hand between her legs, coming only seconds later. Sticky and hot, she fell against Seven, who collapsed on the bed. Kathryn didn’t move, still stunned by the power of Seven’s reaction, as well as her own.
They lay there for a few minutes before Seven lifted her head to glance back at Kathryn. She looked dazed. “Hello,” she said.
Kathryn laughed. “Hi.”
“Good morning.”
“Yes, it is.” She crawled up to kiss Seven’s bee-stung lips.
“I enjoyed that. Very much.” She seemed bashful.
“Me too. It was… different.”
Seven nodded. Her eyes lost focus, and Kathryn knew she was reliving it. She shivered. “You bit me,” she said.
Kathryn winced, uncertain. “Was that all right?”
“Yes,” Seven said. “What should have been painful felt instead… exciting. It heightened my desire.”
“So that was a first?”
“It was. I believe that after last night, and this morning, I could say that my prior experiences were somewhat… bland, comparatively speaking.”
“That’s nice to hear.” Kathryn kept her satisfied grin to minimum wattage. “But if I ever do something you don’t like, please say so, okay?”
“Of course. You must do the same.” Kathryn agreed. “You are an extremely skilled lover.”
“I think that may be your influence, darling. My dry spells have been epic over the last twelve years or so.”
“But you have not been alone since we returned from the Delta Quadrant. Have you?”
“Not quite, but my relationships were brief, and few. I already had someone to love. You were a hard act to follow.”
Seven looked thoughtful. “You were lonely,” she said.
“I was.”
“So was I.” She pulled Kathryn into her embrace, cradling her head. “And though I regret our separation, I would be hesitant to change it. I believe our experiences on the Relativity may have something to do with that.”
Kathryn inhaled the perfume of Seven’s cooling skin. “Change one thing, change a thousand, you mean.”
“Yes.”
“If we had come together sooner, perhaps it would have been different between us. I may not have been… as certain of my affection for you.”
Kathryn considered her own situation. “I see that. I wouldn’t have known how lonesome I’d be without you. How only you can fill my heart.” She propped her head on her hand. “There’s no one else for me, Seven. Anywhere in the universe, I think.”
Tears shone in Seven’s eyes. “Can you really be so sure? We have been apart for so long, Kathryn. A relationship will be challenging, for both of us.”
“I’m willing to try if you are,” she replied. “I love you, darling. And I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge,” she added. “I’m serious. I want this. More than anything I’ve wanted in a long time.”
Seven swallowed, a tear falling into her hair as she closed her eyes. She nodded, and Kathryn nuzzled close again. “I’m not hesitant, Kathryn, please believe me,” she said. “But I’m so happy.” She wiped at her eyes. “Now that I’m with you, I can’t imagine losing you again.”
Kathryn rolled atop Seven’s body, embracing her the best way she knew how. “I’m not going anywhere. Not without you.”
Seven held her tightly, and Kathryn listened to her heartbeat. Eventually it slowed, and the rhythmic sound of it lulled her into a half-sleep. A short time later, Kathryn awoke once more to the beeping of a PADD. She looked up into sleepy blue eyes.
“One of us has a message,” Seven said.
“I bet it’s Phoebe.”
“I believe it is Beverly.”
“Want to place a wager?”
Seven thought for a moment. “Whoever is right makes breakfast.”
“I can afford that risk,” Kathryn said, rolling off the bed and standing. Once back in their old cabin, she took a robe from her bag and pulled it on. Seven did the same, and Kathryn felt her eyebrow rise at the figure she struck in the silver, silky garment. “I like that on you,” she purred.
“I was thinking of you when I purchased it. I saved it for today.”
“When did you buy it?”
“Almost three months ago.”
Kathryn shook her head, amazed once more. “Leave it to you to plan so far ahead.”
Seven approached her and kissed her soundly. “I would have waited for much longer if necessary.”
Kathryn kissed her again, drawing it out sweetly. “You are so precious to me, darling.” One more kiss, and she said, “Now, let’s see who’s on replicator duty this morning.” She rifled through her things in search of her communicator PADD. The red light was flashing in the corner. “Ha. I told you.” She waved it at Seven, who looked back at her serenely.
“I have a message as well. It arrived earlier this morning, when we were… occupied.”
Kathryn’s cheeks flushed. “No wonder I didn’t hear it,” she muttered to herself. “So who wins?”
“We shall make something together.”
“Sounds good. Do you mind if I--?” She pointed to the PADD.
“Do you require privacy?”
“No, but if you do, I can step out. I don’t mind.”
“No.” Seven sat on her bed and started her message. Kathryn heard Beverly’s melodic voice begin, and she deliberately tuned out to see what Phoebe had to say. “Hey Katie… Are you coming home early or what? Mom’s asking if you can make it to the festival after all, since I told her you weren’t having the best time. Let me know if you can. She’s really curious, and hell, so am I. But more than that, I’m worried. Call me, okay? Bye.” She blew a kiss to the screen and signed off.
Seven was watching her. “I overheard the message.”
Kathryn shrugged. “Last time we spoke, I wasn’t in the best mood.”
“Two days ago,” Seven surmised.
“Yes.”
“We don’t have to stay the full two weeks, Kathryn. I didn’t realize you had sacrificed a family event to be with me.”
Kathryn snorted indelicately. “I wasn’t exactly excited to attend the festival, darling, but further, you said you needed me. I couldn’t turn you down, no matter how hard it might be to be around you.”
“You mean to be near me, and not allow yourself to love me.”
“Exactly.”
“I understand.” Seven moved to her and knelt at her feet. “When is the festival?”
“This weekend. It starts in three days and goes till Sunday night.”
“What is involved?”
“Oh, Traditionalist stuff.” Seven tilted her head, waiting. “You know, hayrides, pumpkin carving, pie baking contests, races through a maze of corn. It’s very old-fashioned.”
“Is it not… fun?”
Kathryn’s mouth twisted uncertainly. “It has its attractions. I like seeing the people I grew up with, but I can’t say I look forward to it. Partly because my mother tends to try and set me up with single men from her neighborhood.”
“Men?” Seven looked scandalized.
With a chuckle, she replied, “She knew I was lonely.”
“What will she say if you tell her we’re together?”
“I don’t know… She might be upset if I try to take a captaincy back. I think she hoped for grandchildren.”
Seven blinked. “We have a long future ahead of us, Kathryn. Who’s to say what it may hold?”
The words sent a frisson of anticipation through her. She brushed her thumb against Seven’s lower lip. “Who’s to say?” she echoed. “Do you want to go? To the festival?”
With a nod, Seven answered, “I believe I would enjoy it. But only if you truly want to. I would be content to stay here as well, and continue to have you all to myself.”
“Let me think on it. What did Beverly have to say?”
“She inquired as to my progress. I would like to contact her, if you don’t mind.”
“Sure. Want a few minutes alone?”
“You may stay. I’m sure Beverly would like to see you.”
“I guess I’d like to say hello. And warn her about that chat with Jean-Luc I wanted to have.”
Seven paused briefly. “On second thought, we should eat first. This could be a longer conversation than I intended.”
Kathryn considered discussing her future without a thermos of coffee to sustain her. “Good idea.”
An hour later, eggs, bacon, toast and fruit had been replicated and consumed. Kathryn sipped Seven’s special cappuccino and mulled over what she’d say to Jean-Luc. But first, Phoebe. And her mother. They dressed in bathing suits and shorts and headed up to the deck. The wind was calm, sun shining down to warm Kathryn’s skin. PADD in hand, she sat and gathered her courage. Seven sat nearby, waiting to be included in the conversation.
She sent a call through, and soon Phoebe’s face appeared before her. “Hey there! Wow, you look different. Is it possible that you’re actually tan under all those freckles?”
“Ha ha, Phoebe. Is Mom around?”
“Yeah. Do you want me to get her?”
“Ah, I’ll start with you.” Kathryn rubbed the back of her neck. Why was she so nervous? “So, you were right.”
There was a pause. “I was right.” Phoebe glanced up, staring away from the screen. “Hmm, so many things I could have been right about…”
“About Seven, goof,” she said.
“Stop.” Her eyes grew wide. “That’s why you look different! You got laid! Oh thank the gods! And it was good, wasn’t it. I can see it all over your face. What was it like? The woman is gorgeous-did she go--”
“Phoebe, she’s right here,” Kathryn interrupted, mortified. She looked up and met Seven’s eyes, full of mirth. “Come say hi,” she motioned.
She joined Kathryn in front of the viewer. “Hello Phoebe.”
Phoebe appeared genuinely thrilled. “Oh, gods, this is wonderful. Seven, I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. I am so happy. For both of you. And you’ve done me a great favor. I can finally stop worrying about my little sister!”
Seven frowned. “I thought you were older, Kathryn.”
“I am. But Phoebe’s towered over me since I was nine, and she’s never let me forget it.”
“It’s a term of endearment, Sev,” Phoebe said, immediately adopting one for Seven. “You’ll get used to it. I have a lot of them.” She looked back to Kathryn. “I take it you’re not coming back for the festival then?”
“Actually,” Kathryn began, “I thought I might bring Seven. What do you think Mom would say?”
“Are you kidding?” Phoebe exclaimed. “She’d love it! I think she’s out of bachelors. Larry Keith just got engaged a month ago, and that was her last hope within 50 kilometers. She was worried she was going to have to branch out further.”
“I am relieved to hear that,” Seven said.
“Let me go get her,” Phoebe insisted.
Though surprised, Gretchen was overjoyed to hear the news. “Oh sweetheart, I really am pleased. Seven, you are very welcome to come to my home for the weekend. I would love to get to know you better. Kathryn has spoken of you so often, I feel as though it will be like seeing an old friend.” Gretchen turned to Kathryn. “Not that I had any idea that feelings went deeper than friendship, mind you.”
“Sorry, Mom. I, uh, had my reasons.”
“Mm-hmm,” she said, eyebrow raised.
Seven’s mouth dropped open. “I now see the side of the family that look comes from,” Seven said.
Kathryn laughed, joined by the other two Janeways. “Mom, Phoebe, I have something else I wanted to mention. Seven and I were talking, about the future. And nothing’s set in stone--I was thinking about it--haven’t even talked to anyone yet, but I… I’ve just been considering--”
“You’re applying for a demotion, aren’t you,” Gretchen said softly.
Kathryn was stunned into silence. Phoebe’s expression was one of understanding as well. Perhaps her dissatisfaction with her rank wasn’t as veiled as she’d thought.
“Yes,” Seven answered for her.
Gretchen nodded, glancing at Phoebe. “I expected it last year, to be honest. You’re not cut out to be a desk jockey, sweetheart. Neither was your father.” She smiled. “Seven, will you be with her?”
Seven stared into the screen intensely. “I will not leave her side. Ever.”
Kathryn saw the depth of emotion register on both Janeways’ faces; Seven may as well have proposed in front of the whole family. After Gretchen took a big breath, she said, “Well, as long as you’re not alone out there. And as long as you don’t go on any seven year missions again, I think we’ll survive.”
“I’ll do my best, Mom. They might not even grant my request.”
Gretchen barked a laugh. “They will if they know what’s good for them.”
“When?” Phoebe asked plaintively. “Not before the year is out?”
“No,” Kathryn answered. “I think we both have some affairs to put in order. I… need some time. But the more I consider it, the more I feel it’s the right decision. For both of us.”
Seven laced their fingers together and squeezed.
“I’ll miss you, Katie.”
“I’ll miss you, little sister,” Kathryn said in reply. “But I’ll be around. You won’t get rid of me that easily.” She bit the inside of her cheek, holding back tears.
Gretchen sniffled and touched the corner of her eye. “In the meantime, we have our own affairs to attend to. When are you arriving, and how long are you staying?”
Kathryn decided staying through the weekend would be appropriate, and they’d play the following week by ear. The temptation of returning to her desk wasn’t nearly as attractive now that she had ideas of a new captain’s chair in mind. And there was no telling when she’d have another two weeks of shore leave again.
They signed off with promises to arrive Friday afternoon, and Kathryn let out a great sigh of relief. “I’m glad that’s over,” she said.
“Did you truly believe your mother would try and convince you to stay on Earth?”
Sitting back, Kathryn thought about it. “No, but I’d have been able to tell if she didn’t mean what she said. I think she’s honestly glad that I’m giving it a shot.”
Seven nodded. “I liked talking with her and Phoebe. They are wonderful people. I believe they would also be fond of my cousins, and my Aunt Irene.”
Kathryn felt a throb of trepidation. “One family at a time, darling,” she said.
“Yes, Kathryn,” Seven replied evenly. There was a knowing glint in her eye.
“Beverly next?”
“Yes.”
---
Captain Crusher let out an undignified yelp of joy when she heard the news. She clapped her hands together and grinned. “Fantastic. This is fantastic. When can you come for dinner?”
“We are spending this weekend at the Janeway farm in Bloomington. Perhaps the following weekend?” Seven suggested.
“My, you do move quickly. Getting to know the in-laws already, Seven?”
Seven blushed, and when she glanced at Kathryn, she saw color rising in freckled cheeks as well. “My family participates in a harvest festival each year. It seemed a good time to visit,” Kathryn said.
“Naturally,” Beverly teased. “Sounds fun. So listen, maybe I’ll throw together a party, to introduce you as a couple--”
Seven cut her off. “Not quite yet, Beverly. Perhaps another time?” Beverly always meant well, but Seven wanted to take this at her own pace, and revealing their relationship to a group of Captains and Admirals might as well be a Federation-wide announcement. “I believe we would like to stay… quiet for a few weeks at least. We have some things to resolve. I hope you understand.”
Beverly waved a hand assuredly. “Of course. How about just dinner, with, Jean-Luc and me, and Deanna and Will? The Enterprise returns to Earth in a couple of weeks. But I’ll want to do something before Christmas--we head out in January on the Pasteur for six months.”
With a look at Kathryn, who approved, Seven replied, “That would be lovely.” She bit her lip. “Is Jean-Luc there? I believe Kathryn has something to discuss with him.”
Beverly’s interest was clearly piqued, but Seven said nothing more. This was Kathryn’s business. “Sure, hang on.” She disappeared from the screen briefly, and Jean-Luc took her place. She poked her head over his shoulder. “I’ll leave you to it. Seven, call me soon, okay? I love you.”
“I love you too, Beverly.” From the corner of her eye, she knew Kathryn was caught unawares by her open expression of affection. It was just another thing Kathryn would learn about her as they got to know each other once again. “Hello, Jean-Luc.”
“Hello, Seven.” His eyes crinkled warmly. “I heard a ruckus a few minutes ago, so I take it the bird is in hand?”
Kathryn choked slightly, and Seven grinned. “She is. Very happily so. And she has something she’d like to talk with you about.” Seven moved over and allowed Kathryn to take the PADD. “I will be in the crow’s nest if you need me.”
Kathryn shot her a grateful look before turning to Jean-Luc. “Admiral,” she began, “There’s been something on my mind…”
Seven went below to retrieve her sketch pad before she climbed to the top of the nest. The view was stunning; she could see the beach where she and Kathryn had spent the day before, as well as the grove of trees where she had revealed her feelings. The moment would be recorded in Seven’s eidetic memory, but perhaps Kathryn would appreciate a more concrete representation. She sketched, heart warming as she drew the very tree under which she had first kissed, and been kissed in return. Her mind drifted as her hand traced and shaded the shapes, bringing that singular tree into relief so it stood out among the others. She didn’t know how much time had passed when Kathryn climbed the ladder to join her. The image was pretty, Seven thought; she would not be embarrassed to reveal it.
“Hello,” Seven said.
“Whatcha doing?”
“Sketching.”
“Care to share?”
“If you like.”
Kathryn slid under the railing and sat beside Seven. She looked at the picture, eyes softening perceptibly. Her fingers hovered unsteadily over the central tree. Her smile said everything to Seven. “It’s beautiful.” Kathryn looked up and out over the genuine view, teeth showing as her smile grew. “I love it.”
“It is for you.”
“Really?” She seemed inordinately pleased.
“Yes. It is not complete, but when it is, it will be yours.”
“Thank you darling. I’ll treasure it.” She laid her head on Seven’s shoulder.
“How was your conversation?”
Kathryn snuggled closer. “Good. Jean-Luc believes it will not be a problem. And I think he knows about what happened with my original promotion.”
“In what way?”
“He suggested that it would be far easier for me to regain my captaincy now than it would have been three years ago. Which can mean only one thing.”
Seven did not keep up with the internal Starfleet politics the way she had her first months on Earth, when she’d closely tracked Kathryn’s movements. “What’s that?”
“It had to have been Nechayev. She retired three years ago, or was forced out; I don’t know the details. All this time I thought I’d pulled one over on her when she went after you.” Kathryn stared into the distance blankly. “I was certain she’d lost her influence after the war. Her bias was obvious; how anyone could have followed her lead was ridiculous at that point. I guess she wasn’t alone in her beliefs.”
“Starfleet is not without its prejudiced individuals. I have known my share.” Kathryn’s affection for the institution of Starfleet was well-documented, but after her own treatment at their hands, it was curious that she could still be so blind to its imperfections.
“I’m sure,” she said, meeting Seven’s eyes. “Nechayev… Alynna was always over-zealous, but the war damaged her beyond repair. Her slide began after Wolf 359, but by the time we’d gotten home, I was shocked that she even had a commission.”
Seven shivered. She knew Nechayev’s husband had been assimilated. Her encounters with the woman had been frightening. At the time she hadn’t realized that Kathryn had been involved in keeping Seven from being taken apart, in the name of science, of course. Now it seemed obvious. “She was unkind to me,” Seven said carefully.
Kathryn chuckled. “She was unkind to me too, darling. The fact that I emerged unannounced from a Borg sphere inside Federation territory, with a couple of Borg drones in tow, was an unforgivable sin in her eyes. For a while she was convinced I was planning Earth’s assimilation.”
“Clearly she did not know you at all,” Seven said.
Kathryn sighed affectionately. “In any case, she’s out. Jean-Luc believes no one will block my request. It’s not a guarantee, but… it’s reassuring.”
“So our association will not damage your credibility?”
Kathryn’s eyes went wide. “Seven, you must be aware of your own reputation within Starfleet.”
“I am, and will always be, Borg.”
“But human too. Your work with the Propulsion group is widely known. The paper you wrote last year on quantum field theory is already part of the lexicon taught at the academy. Not to mention that you’re practically an adopted daughter to Jean-Luc Picard and Beverly Crusher, two of the most respected and admired Starfleet officers ever to serve. If anything, you’d grant me more credibility. And cause not a little jealousy among the higher-ups.”
“Pardon?”
“Please. You’re the most beautiful creature ever to set foot inside Headquarters. I’m sure you’ve been… approached by a number of officers in the past.”
Seven shrugged. “I suppose. I did not pay much attention.”
“Thank god for that,” Kathryn murmured.
“I am not the most beautiful, by the way. You are.”
Kathryn’s mouth curled. “Sweet talker.”
“It is true.”
Kathryn waved her hands. “Let’s not argue. Back to the subject--Jean-Luc said that you’ll be granted passage almost certainly.”
“Excellent.” Seven turned to Kathryn, taking her hands. “Have you decided then?”
Pale grey eyes turned darker for a moment. “I’m going to give myself a few weeks to settle into the idea, if you don’t object. I want to be sure.”
“A prudent course of action.”
“But I don’t think I’ll change my mind.”
“Neither do I.”
Kathryn grinned. “So that’s settled then.” She looked out onto the ocean. “What should we do today?”
“I thought we could have a swim, make love, have lunch, make love, sail a little, make love…”
Kathryn laughed, the throaty sound sending a corresponding tingle between Seven’s legs. “I get the picture.” She threw a leg over Seven’s. “How sturdy do you think this thing is anyway?”
“Sturdy enough.”
---
Part VI
Author: chilly_flame
Fandom: Voyager
Pairing: J/7
Rating: M
Disclaimer: All the characters included herein are property of Paramount. Alas.
---
Kathryn wrapped her hands around Seven’s neck, heartbeat thudding strongly in her ears. She’d never been handled so easily by any lover, and had certainly never been carried to the bedroom like this. It wasn’t seemly for an Admiral to be swept off her feet by anyone, but she was willing to make an exception this time.
And maybe the next.
Seven kicked open a door, and moments later Kathryn was sprawled on a bed, crushed by six feet of delicious flesh. Seven’s tongue dueled with hers, and she pulled at Seven’s shirt. Pushing her away for a moment, she yanked at the buttons, tossing the scrap of material off the bed when she was successful. Her lover still wore a one-piece bathing suit, so that was going to have to come off after the shorts. But Seven had paused to stare at her oddly. “Oh,” she said.
Through her haze of desire, Kathryn hadn’t paid much attention to her surroundings. But now she realized she’d never been in this room before. It was twice the size of her and Seven’s current quarters, and she lay atop a queen-sized bed. Soft light glowed from elegant lanterns, and the scent of flowers hung in the air. And there was something in her hair… She felt around, and several pink petals came away in her hand. Glancing over her shoulder, she realized the bed was covered with them. “Oh,” Kathryn echoed.
Seven nodded toward a champagne bottle chilling nearby. “Josiah left us something. I guess this is it.”
“These are lovely quarters… I take it they were left off the tour deliberately?” Kathryn asked, eyebrow raised.
Seven shrugged. “Perhaps it was unnecessary, but I had to find a way to share space with you without making it too… obvious.”
“Understandable.” Her legs twined with smooth limbs, and she rubbed her calves against Seven’s. A chill spread through her at the sensation, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood at attention. “You feel heavenly.”
Seven brushed a lock of hair off Kathryn’s forehead, lips curving gently. She pressed her mouth to the spot, traveling down her cheek, to her ear and back again. “Kathryn,” she whispered.
“Yes?”
Seven sighed, her breath warm and sweet. “I only wanted to say your name. To remind myself that you’re here, that this is happening.”
“It is.” Kathryn reached up and pulled her down for another kiss. Seven tasted of salt, chocolate, and that indefinable flavor that Kathryn felt sure she’d always be able to identify from now on. “I’m having a hard time believing it myself.”
“Then we must remind each other now and then.” Seven’s expression shifted briefly, and Kathryn was immediately alert. She waited. “This is an inopportune moment to bring it up, but when we get back to… the real world, your work, and mine, will we be together?” The last word was pronounced so apprehensively it nearly brought tears to Kathryn’s eyes.
“Yes.” It seemed astonishing that it was even a question, but she wouldn’t laugh at Seven’s worries; she had a share of them herself. “If that’s what you want.”
“It’s very much what I want. The details… can wait.” The seductive smile had returned, anxiety banished by Kathryn’s reassurance.
“Agreed.”
Seven’s kisses began once more in earnest, and Kathryn felt the world swimming around her as she explored the texture of full lips. It felt indulgent, the perfect pressure of a slick tongue moving against hers. She squirmed as Seven fitted herself more firmly between her thighs. Already she felt a river of wetness pouring from her, and though she was mildly embarrassed, she didn’t hide it when Seven pulled her clothes slowly away from her body piece by piece. When she was naked, she fought the urge to cover herself, enjoying Seven’s wide eyed expression. She looked so stunned at that moment that Kathryn wondered how much experience she had. “You’ve done this before, right?”
Seven nodded distantly. “I have had four partners, including two females, but I will admit only to you Kathryn, that no amount of experience could have prepared me for this moment.” She swallowed. “You are exquisite. So delicate,” she said, trailing gentle fingers down Kathryn’s breastbone, past her ribcage. “So different from me.”
“Show me,” Kathryn said, her throat thick with desire.
Moments later, Seven had peeled her suit away, leaving her bare before Kathryn’s gaze. “Come here,” Kathryn whispered, “so I can touch you.”
Seven followed her instructions. Kathryn’s nipples stiffened at the sensation of full breasts brushing hers. For a moment, she wondered if she’d survive this encounter; already she was overwhelmed. Gazing upward, everything she felt was mirrored in ice blue eyes--love, passion, astonishment, happiness. When she lifted her knee, she brushed the apex of Seven’s legs. The body above her shuddered and Seven’s eyes fell shut with a groan. She was already panting. “Kathryn, I have often dreamed of making our first time last all night, but I fear I can not.”
“No problem,” Kathryn said quickly. They’d both been on a slow burn all afternoon, and it was time to make a move. She pushed against Seven’s shoulder and rolled atop her, letting out a slow breath as she settled into the cradle of Seven’s hips. Leaning down, she nuzzled the white throat, slowly moving from collarbone to the bountiful flesh of her breasts. She avoided the pink tips until Seven’s movement insisted on more direct attention. As she captured one, and then another, between her teeth, Seven lurched in her embrace. Her head came forward, tendons in her neck standing out in sharp relief. “Oh,” she moaned. “Kath, Kathryn.” Her hips matched the rhythm that Kathryn’s lips set. “Ah, that’s good, oh, yesssss.” Her mutterings urged Kathryn to bring her hands into play. One slipped south, low on Seven’s belly, tangling amidst damp hair and silvery implant. She pulled on the pale strands, and instantly Seven’s legs parted. “Yes,” Seven called, “Kathryn, I can wait no longer. Please touch me.”
Carefully, Kathryn reached down while maintaining contact with Seven’s breast. She found copious moisture, and circled Seven’s opening teasingly. Humming against the flesh in her mouth, she avoided the more sensitive nub, moving inside with precision. Surrounded by walls already tightening against the invasion, she flexed her hand. Seven’s hips jerked up, and Kathryn added a second finger. Seven keened beneath her, head tossing back and forth in a maelstrom of energy. Finally she brought her thumb into play, and only a few strokes later, Seven stilled in her embrace, each muscle strung tight as the pulses began around Kathryn’s fingers. They gripped her digits forcefully, and a joyous cry filled the room. Kathryn felt every contraction as though it were her own.
She watched Seven in the aftermath. Her expression was blissful, mouth open as she struggled to draw breath. The planes and angles of her face were lovely in the soft light, shadows darkening the lines of her cheekbones and the tiny dip of her chin. Even the cortical implant glowed with energy, satisfaction seeping from every pore. Finally, her beloved’s eyes opened. Dark pupils stared out, unseeing at first, as she focused. “Kathryn,” she breathed.
“Yes, darling.”
Seven blinked slowly. “That was… exceptional.”
Though she attempted to hide it, a smug grin crept across her face. “I’m glad to hear it. I enjoyed myself too. So much so that I’d like to give it another go.” She wiggled her fingers, still buried inside Seven.
Seven sat up, biting her lip. “No,” she gasped. In seconds, Seven had maneuvered Kathryn into her lap, and she found her legs wrapped around the narrow waist. Kathryn’s hand was slick, and she brought it to her nose, licking her fingers daintily. Seven’s mouth fastened to hers, and soon she was lost in the heat of the embrace. Hands pulled her closer, massaging her back and shoulders, skimming up to cradle her head. Teeth raked down her neck, surely marking her. But Seven’s soft, soft lips soothed the bruise with unhurried kisses that inflamed Kathryn even further. There seemed to be no spot that Seven didn’t grant her undivided attention, wandering to her shoulders, her collarbone, her breasts.
Her olfactory senses were flooded; skin, sex, flowers, and above it all, Seven herself, overwhelmed her. Seven raised her face, dark, swollen lips demanding a kiss. Long moments later, the world spun as her back met the mattress. One thigh landed between Kathryn’s legs, and Seven’s hand followed its path. Kathryn could hardly tell what her partner was doing; only that it felt incredible. Kathryn began to speak, words of desire and longing leaving her mouth in a stream. But when Seven’s fingers finally moved inside, coherence left her altogether and she was swept up in the motion of her own body. Seven set the pace now, and though she tried to forestall the inevitable, her orgasm built quickly. As Seven called her name, moving against her leg in search of another release, the pleasure exploded through Kathryn, starting at her toes and racing all the way out to the ends of her hair.
But Seven was wild, grunting with effort for a few more seconds before snapping back in a glorious arch above her. Perspiration trickled down her torso, and Kathryn could only watch, awestruck.
Seven’s eyes were heavy lidded, as she looked down. Kathryn felt herself clench around Seven’s fingers in aftershock. “Oh,” Seven moaned, still trying to catch her breath.
Kathryn nodded. That about summed it up.
“I climaxed again,” Seven said, almost apologetically.
With a chuckle, Kathryn replied, “I could tell. You were beautiful.”
“It was… unexpected. The sounds you made, your voice… I-it aroused me greatly.”
Kathryn pulled her down for a languid kiss, and Seven’s hand finally left her as she held herself up. “I’ll keep that in mind for next time.”
“What about now?” Seven asked. “How much recovery time do you need?”
Eyebrow raised, Kathryn grinned. “Not much.” The kiss began anew.
---
Seven gazed at the glass of champagne she held, admiring the way the starlight reflected in the bubbles. Kathryn’s hand stroked her thigh, pulling the blanket more tightly around them both. They shared a single deck chair and watched the moon creep slowly across the sky, taking a break from their lovemaking. Hours had gone by as they explored one another, and Seven could remember no other moment in her life when she felt more at peace. She nuzzled an ear, her teeth grazing the edge. Predictably, Kathryn shivered in response. Over the course of a single evening, she felt as though she’d acquired a map of Kathryn’s body; the places she loved to be touched, those she should avoid, those that brought the greatest pleasure. Her ear was certainly an erogenous zone, as was her neck, and they were both conveniently within reach.
She continued her study of the textures and flavors at her lips until Kathryn leaned back with a groan. “Darling, how did you learn my secrets so quickly?”
Seven put her best Borg voice on. “My eidetic memory provides assistance for more than scientific pursuits, Kathryn. I have acquired knowledge of more than 47 locations on your body that bring gratification of some kind. Shall I demonstrate them now?” she teased.
Kathryn laughed weakly. “In a little while. I’m not as young as I used to be.”
Adding a final kiss to Kathryn’s ear, Seven relaxed against the chair. “You have depleted my resources as well. I did not anticipate you would be so… energetic.”
“I was inspired,” Kathryn replied with a knowing grin. “You really have the most glorious body, darling. I might even say you’re perfection personified.”
“In your eyes,” Seven said softly. “As you are perfection to me.”
Kathryn turned her head and pressed a kiss to her collarbone. They lay in companionable silence for a time, listening only for the sound of the waves lapping at the boat’s hull. A strange sound broke the quiet; when it came again, she realized she was hearing Kathryn’s stomach growl. Seven leaned forward. “I will return momentarily with some sustenance.”
“No, I’m fine. Stay, darling.”
“Patience, Kathryn. I’ll be right back.” Naked, she climbed down the steps and went into the galley. From behind a wooden panel, she accessed the replicator and programmed two servings of pasta, chicken and vegetables. They were going to need a suitable combination of protein and carbohydrates if their earlier activities were going to continue on into the night.
As promised, she returned to Kathryn only minutes later bearing a tray of the pasta, bread and parmesan cheese, along with large glasses of water. “Seven, have you become a magician since I last saw you? You create these concoctions out of thin air, it seems.”
“On this occasion, you are partially correct. I used the replicator.”
“A replicator.” Kathryn shook her head with a smirk. “Another missing part of the tour, I take it.”
“Yes. Dear,” she added, batting her eyes deliberately.
“You’re lucky you’re gorgeous. I was going to give you hell, but you distracted me.”
“That was the idea.” Seven set their meal on a low table and sat cross legged facing Kathryn. They each held their plates on their laps, enjoying their late supper and sipping at the champagne. Seven still had a taste for the beverage, though she was careful not to imbibe too much. She wanted nothing to impair her memory of this evening. They toasted one another and exchanged a few kisses before Seven retook her original position behind Kathryn.
A few minutes later, Kathryn said, “I think I may take you up on your suggestion.”
“Which suggestion is that?”
After a pause, she replied, “The one about becoming a Captain again.”
Seven tightened her hold around Kathryn. “I will assist in any way I can.”
“But darling,” Kathryn said, glancing over her shoulder, “Would you leave the TPG? Go back out into the stars? Because I won’t go without you. Not now, after all this time. I’ve put my career before every relationship I’ve ever had. No more.”
“I believe you will not have to choose one over the other. I could join your vessel as a civilian contractor. And were I not permitted, I would simply resign my post and go with you regardless.”
Kathryn was still. “I wouldn’t want you to abandon your own career for me, Seven.”
Seven considered the prospect of resigning and found herself not even a little uncertain. “Do not misunderstand my dedication to my work, Kathryn. It engages my particular area of expertise, and often it is rewarding in unexpected ways. But make no mistake: it is not a calling. It would cost me nothing to leave it behind. Sometimes I believe that being in space, on a starship… it’s where we both belong. It’s where you found me. Where I grew to know and admire you. Where I learned to love you.”
Kathryn rubbed her face against Seven’s shoulder. “Okay.”
“We could speak to Jean-Luc tomorrow if you like.”
“That’s a little quick, don’t you think?”
Seven shrugged. “It is your decision. It couldn’t hurt to discuss it with him.”
“True… Maybe just a conversation.” Kathryn sighed deeply. “But only after I bring it up to Phoebe and my mother. I don’t want to get things moving before I even mention it to either of them.”
“A wise choice,” Seven said. “Perhaps I could… visit them with you. We met only twice during the briefings, and it was all over so quickly… I would enjoy an opportunity to spend some time with each of them.”
“I think that could be arranged.” Kathryn’s voice turned shy. “Would you come home with me?”
“I would be honored.” She smiled, grateful. She’d been waiting for an official invitation to Bloomington for six years. “I love you, Kathryn.”
“Darling. I know Mom and Phoebe will love you too.”
“Not in the same way, I hope.”
With a chuckle, Kathryn said, “Unlikely. But I wouldn’t put anything past Phoebe.”
“She is a beautiful woman. You look similar, but I have interest in only one Janeway,” Seven said, cupping Kathryn’s breasts under the blanket. The nipples hardened instantly, and Kathryn shifted in her lap. Fingernails scratched at Seven’s thighs, and she could feel the tension that had already leapt between them.
“What is it about you that makes me so insatiable?” Kathryn’s breath stuttered as Seven circled one pebbled bud.
“I think you know, Kathryn,” she muttered into one ear. She nibbled gently before adding, “Resistance is futile.”
Kathryn laughed, throwing her head back just as Seven reached down between her legs. She stiffened, still giggling, before replying, “That is… oh yes, there… the worst joke ever.” Breathing through her nose, she placed one hand over Seven’s. The eroticism was not lost on Seven, who found herself moving in tandem with Kathryn as she stroked. She pulled the blanket away and dropped it on the deck, leaving them exposed to the cool night air. Kathryn’s skin glowed with perspiration under the moonlight, and Seven was entranced by the sight of their two hands bringing her lover pleasure. Her own need was sharp, but Kathryn had neared the edge, her breathing fast and urgent. Low moans rang out in the quiet night, until her hand stilled Seven’s. The world stopped as Kathryn shuddered, pulsing beneath their joined touch.
The fragrance of Kathryn’s hair was intoxicating, flowers and musk blending delightfully. Seven panted, the fire between her legs demanding attention. But she waited, her hips moving gently beneath Kathryn’s.
She was sure Kathryn would drift off to sleep in her depleted state. If only she could reach herself, she could manage it… But before she knew it, her lover had slipped from her grasp and knelt on the deck. Seven felt herself pulled forward, and Kathryn’s mouth descended with intent. Long, slow licks reignited a fire already raging out of control. She cried out, spine bowing as the pleasure skittered across her nerves. Touching Kathryn’s head softly, she savored the moment, staring up and out into the stars. They winked brilliantly, points of light blurring as passion finally overtook her. Kathryn held her legs tightly as she came, and came again, for what seemed the hundredth time that night.
When it was over, she lay still, skin damp with sweat. A glass of water soon appeared above her face, and she reached up to take it. She drank it all, wiping her mouth when she was done. Kathryn crouched near, the half grin too much for Seven to resist. She pulled her close for a wet kiss, tasting herself on Kathryn’s mouth.
After knowing Kathryn for so many years, she’d discovered an entirely new side to the woman. The chemistry she’d expected, or hoped for them to share, was twice or three times that in reality. Her muscles felt loose and relaxed, as though her body had been dipped in warm honey. “Kathryn,” she breathed. They kissed again, tongues entangling. She slid her hands into the soft, auburn hair, reveling in the freedom to touch and hold. “Come to bed. I want to be next to you.”
“I can think of nothing better,” Kathryn replied, standing. She offered a hand to Seven, who took it and followed her downstairs into their cabin. The sheets were strewn everywhere, so as Kathryn straightened them out, Seven deposited their plates and glasses into the recycler. She stepped into the bathroom to wash up, and caught her reflection in the mirror. Had it only been the day before that she’d stood in this very place, wondering if wearing a two-piece bathing suit was too much for Kathryn? She’d been strutting around naked now for the past five hours and heard no complaints thus far. And her expression… She’d never seen that look on her own face before; one of complete satisfaction. She looked somehow more mature, as though she’d learned a secret that she’d been trying to unearth for a long time. Perhaps that was because she’d achieved the single goal that had eluded her all these years.
Kathryn Janeway was hers. And she was going to stay that way, indefinitely.
---
---
Kathryn woke slowly, the gentle rocking of the boat keeping her in a contented doze for a while before she opened her eyes. She blinked through the haze of blonde, catching strands of hair on her eyelashes as she realized she was spooning Seven. She moved a leg, rubbing her thigh against her bottom. The skin was baby soft, and Kathryn caught her breath at the tendril of desire that laced through her belly just at the image of it. Tracing a line from Seven’s hip down her back, she listened for a change in Seven’s breathing to indicate her awareness. When none came, she continued her caress, tickling and smoothing her lower back, implants and all, as she had before. This was one of Seven’s erogenous zones; Kathryn wondered if it was because of the proximity of her regeneration node that spurred it on. No matter, she thought; if it brought Seven pleasure, it was a good thing.
Seven turned on her stomach with a gentle whimper, her eyes moving rapidly beneath closed lids. She was dreaming, so Kathryn took advantage. Her mouth followed the same path that her fingers had, surveying the curious blend of flesh and metal. Seven’s hips began to shift, so Kathryn intensified her touch. Seven whimpered again, her lips parting as her body began to undulate in earnest.
“Kathryn,” she groaned, voice heavy with sleep and desire. “Fuck.” The edge of the profanity thrilled her. She bit the fleshiest part of Seven’s rear, eliciting a lusty grunt from above. She continued her assault, raking her teeth against skin, licking the edges of the silver implant that stretched across the muscled lower back. “Fuck,” Seven repeated, lifting her ass closer to Kathryn’s mouth. The extra space beneath her body gave Kathryn the room she needed to snake her hand under Seven’s hips, pushing inside with her thumb while fingers trapped her clitoris. “Ah,” Seven cried, and Kathryn thrust hard, her own desire heightening with every stroke. Soon Seven rose up onto all fours and Kathryn stayed with her, the roughness of the encounter racing her heart. Seven rode her hand wildly, jerking once, twice, three times before convulsing, a scream tearing from her throat.
Kathryn felt a tiny tremor pulse through her, and gasping for breath, she pressed a hand between her legs, coming only seconds later. Sticky and hot, she fell against Seven, who collapsed on the bed. Kathryn didn’t move, still stunned by the power of Seven’s reaction, as well as her own.
They lay there for a few minutes before Seven lifted her head to glance back at Kathryn. She looked dazed. “Hello,” she said.
Kathryn laughed. “Hi.”
“Good morning.”
“Yes, it is.” She crawled up to kiss Seven’s bee-stung lips.
“I enjoyed that. Very much.” She seemed bashful.
“Me too. It was… different.”
Seven nodded. Her eyes lost focus, and Kathryn knew she was reliving it. She shivered. “You bit me,” she said.
Kathryn winced, uncertain. “Was that all right?”
“Yes,” Seven said. “What should have been painful felt instead… exciting. It heightened my desire.”
“So that was a first?”
“It was. I believe that after last night, and this morning, I could say that my prior experiences were somewhat… bland, comparatively speaking.”
“That’s nice to hear.” Kathryn kept her satisfied grin to minimum wattage. “But if I ever do something you don’t like, please say so, okay?”
“Of course. You must do the same.” Kathryn agreed. “You are an extremely skilled lover.”
“I think that may be your influence, darling. My dry spells have been epic over the last twelve years or so.”
“But you have not been alone since we returned from the Delta Quadrant. Have you?”
“Not quite, but my relationships were brief, and few. I already had someone to love. You were a hard act to follow.”
Seven looked thoughtful. “You were lonely,” she said.
“I was.”
“So was I.” She pulled Kathryn into her embrace, cradling her head. “And though I regret our separation, I would be hesitant to change it. I believe our experiences on the Relativity may have something to do with that.”
Kathryn inhaled the perfume of Seven’s cooling skin. “Change one thing, change a thousand, you mean.”
“Yes.”
“If we had come together sooner, perhaps it would have been different between us. I may not have been… as certain of my affection for you.”
Kathryn considered her own situation. “I see that. I wouldn’t have known how lonesome I’d be without you. How only you can fill my heart.” She propped her head on her hand. “There’s no one else for me, Seven. Anywhere in the universe, I think.”
Tears shone in Seven’s eyes. “Can you really be so sure? We have been apart for so long, Kathryn. A relationship will be challenging, for both of us.”
“I’m willing to try if you are,” she replied. “I love you, darling. And I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge,” she added. “I’m serious. I want this. More than anything I’ve wanted in a long time.”
Seven swallowed, a tear falling into her hair as she closed her eyes. She nodded, and Kathryn nuzzled close again. “I’m not hesitant, Kathryn, please believe me,” she said. “But I’m so happy.” She wiped at her eyes. “Now that I’m with you, I can’t imagine losing you again.”
Kathryn rolled atop Seven’s body, embracing her the best way she knew how. “I’m not going anywhere. Not without you.”
Seven held her tightly, and Kathryn listened to her heartbeat. Eventually it slowed, and the rhythmic sound of it lulled her into a half-sleep. A short time later, Kathryn awoke once more to the beeping of a PADD. She looked up into sleepy blue eyes.
“One of us has a message,” Seven said.
“I bet it’s Phoebe.”
“I believe it is Beverly.”
“Want to place a wager?”
Seven thought for a moment. “Whoever is right makes breakfast.”
“I can afford that risk,” Kathryn said, rolling off the bed and standing. Once back in their old cabin, she took a robe from her bag and pulled it on. Seven did the same, and Kathryn felt her eyebrow rise at the figure she struck in the silver, silky garment. “I like that on you,” she purred.
“I was thinking of you when I purchased it. I saved it for today.”
“When did you buy it?”
“Almost three months ago.”
Kathryn shook her head, amazed once more. “Leave it to you to plan so far ahead.”
Seven approached her and kissed her soundly. “I would have waited for much longer if necessary.”
Kathryn kissed her again, drawing it out sweetly. “You are so precious to me, darling.” One more kiss, and she said, “Now, let’s see who’s on replicator duty this morning.” She rifled through her things in search of her communicator PADD. The red light was flashing in the corner. “Ha. I told you.” She waved it at Seven, who looked back at her serenely.
“I have a message as well. It arrived earlier this morning, when we were… occupied.”
Kathryn’s cheeks flushed. “No wonder I didn’t hear it,” she muttered to herself. “So who wins?”
“We shall make something together.”
“Sounds good. Do you mind if I--?” She pointed to the PADD.
“Do you require privacy?”
“No, but if you do, I can step out. I don’t mind.”
“No.” Seven sat on her bed and started her message. Kathryn heard Beverly’s melodic voice begin, and she deliberately tuned out to see what Phoebe had to say. “Hey Katie… Are you coming home early or what? Mom’s asking if you can make it to the festival after all, since I told her you weren’t having the best time. Let me know if you can. She’s really curious, and hell, so am I. But more than that, I’m worried. Call me, okay? Bye.” She blew a kiss to the screen and signed off.
Seven was watching her. “I overheard the message.”
Kathryn shrugged. “Last time we spoke, I wasn’t in the best mood.”
“Two days ago,” Seven surmised.
“Yes.”
“We don’t have to stay the full two weeks, Kathryn. I didn’t realize you had sacrificed a family event to be with me.”
Kathryn snorted indelicately. “I wasn’t exactly excited to attend the festival, darling, but further, you said you needed me. I couldn’t turn you down, no matter how hard it might be to be around you.”
“You mean to be near me, and not allow yourself to love me.”
“Exactly.”
“I understand.” Seven moved to her and knelt at her feet. “When is the festival?”
“This weekend. It starts in three days and goes till Sunday night.”
“What is involved?”
“Oh, Traditionalist stuff.” Seven tilted her head, waiting. “You know, hayrides, pumpkin carving, pie baking contests, races through a maze of corn. It’s very old-fashioned.”
“Is it not… fun?”
Kathryn’s mouth twisted uncertainly. “It has its attractions. I like seeing the people I grew up with, but I can’t say I look forward to it. Partly because my mother tends to try and set me up with single men from her neighborhood.”
“Men?” Seven looked scandalized.
With a chuckle, she replied, “She knew I was lonely.”
“What will she say if you tell her we’re together?”
“I don’t know… She might be upset if I try to take a captaincy back. I think she hoped for grandchildren.”
Seven blinked. “We have a long future ahead of us, Kathryn. Who’s to say what it may hold?”
The words sent a frisson of anticipation through her. She brushed her thumb against Seven’s lower lip. “Who’s to say?” she echoed. “Do you want to go? To the festival?”
With a nod, Seven answered, “I believe I would enjoy it. But only if you truly want to. I would be content to stay here as well, and continue to have you all to myself.”
“Let me think on it. What did Beverly have to say?”
“She inquired as to my progress. I would like to contact her, if you don’t mind.”
“Sure. Want a few minutes alone?”
“You may stay. I’m sure Beverly would like to see you.”
“I guess I’d like to say hello. And warn her about that chat with Jean-Luc I wanted to have.”
Seven paused briefly. “On second thought, we should eat first. This could be a longer conversation than I intended.”
Kathryn considered discussing her future without a thermos of coffee to sustain her. “Good idea.”
An hour later, eggs, bacon, toast and fruit had been replicated and consumed. Kathryn sipped Seven’s special cappuccino and mulled over what she’d say to Jean-Luc. But first, Phoebe. And her mother. They dressed in bathing suits and shorts and headed up to the deck. The wind was calm, sun shining down to warm Kathryn’s skin. PADD in hand, she sat and gathered her courage. Seven sat nearby, waiting to be included in the conversation.
She sent a call through, and soon Phoebe’s face appeared before her. “Hey there! Wow, you look different. Is it possible that you’re actually tan under all those freckles?”
“Ha ha, Phoebe. Is Mom around?”
“Yeah. Do you want me to get her?”
“Ah, I’ll start with you.” Kathryn rubbed the back of her neck. Why was she so nervous? “So, you were right.”
There was a pause. “I was right.” Phoebe glanced up, staring away from the screen. “Hmm, so many things I could have been right about…”
“About Seven, goof,” she said.
“Stop.” Her eyes grew wide. “That’s why you look different! You got laid! Oh thank the gods! And it was good, wasn’t it. I can see it all over your face. What was it like? The woman is gorgeous-did she go--”
“Phoebe, she’s right here,” Kathryn interrupted, mortified. She looked up and met Seven’s eyes, full of mirth. “Come say hi,” she motioned.
She joined Kathryn in front of the viewer. “Hello Phoebe.”
Phoebe appeared genuinely thrilled. “Oh, gods, this is wonderful. Seven, I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. I am so happy. For both of you. And you’ve done me a great favor. I can finally stop worrying about my little sister!”
Seven frowned. “I thought you were older, Kathryn.”
“I am. But Phoebe’s towered over me since I was nine, and she’s never let me forget it.”
“It’s a term of endearment, Sev,” Phoebe said, immediately adopting one for Seven. “You’ll get used to it. I have a lot of them.” She looked back to Kathryn. “I take it you’re not coming back for the festival then?”
“Actually,” Kathryn began, “I thought I might bring Seven. What do you think Mom would say?”
“Are you kidding?” Phoebe exclaimed. “She’d love it! I think she’s out of bachelors. Larry Keith just got engaged a month ago, and that was her last hope within 50 kilometers. She was worried she was going to have to branch out further.”
“I am relieved to hear that,” Seven said.
“Let me go get her,” Phoebe insisted.
Though surprised, Gretchen was overjoyed to hear the news. “Oh sweetheart, I really am pleased. Seven, you are very welcome to come to my home for the weekend. I would love to get to know you better. Kathryn has spoken of you so often, I feel as though it will be like seeing an old friend.” Gretchen turned to Kathryn. “Not that I had any idea that feelings went deeper than friendship, mind you.”
“Sorry, Mom. I, uh, had my reasons.”
“Mm-hmm,” she said, eyebrow raised.
Seven’s mouth dropped open. “I now see the side of the family that look comes from,” Seven said.
Kathryn laughed, joined by the other two Janeways. “Mom, Phoebe, I have something else I wanted to mention. Seven and I were talking, about the future. And nothing’s set in stone--I was thinking about it--haven’t even talked to anyone yet, but I… I’ve just been considering--”
“You’re applying for a demotion, aren’t you,” Gretchen said softly.
Kathryn was stunned into silence. Phoebe’s expression was one of understanding as well. Perhaps her dissatisfaction with her rank wasn’t as veiled as she’d thought.
“Yes,” Seven answered for her.
Gretchen nodded, glancing at Phoebe. “I expected it last year, to be honest. You’re not cut out to be a desk jockey, sweetheart. Neither was your father.” She smiled. “Seven, will you be with her?”
Seven stared into the screen intensely. “I will not leave her side. Ever.”
Kathryn saw the depth of emotion register on both Janeways’ faces; Seven may as well have proposed in front of the whole family. After Gretchen took a big breath, she said, “Well, as long as you’re not alone out there. And as long as you don’t go on any seven year missions again, I think we’ll survive.”
“I’ll do my best, Mom. They might not even grant my request.”
Gretchen barked a laugh. “They will if they know what’s good for them.”
“When?” Phoebe asked plaintively. “Not before the year is out?”
“No,” Kathryn answered. “I think we both have some affairs to put in order. I… need some time. But the more I consider it, the more I feel it’s the right decision. For both of us.”
Seven laced their fingers together and squeezed.
“I’ll miss you, Katie.”
“I’ll miss you, little sister,” Kathryn said in reply. “But I’ll be around. You won’t get rid of me that easily.” She bit the inside of her cheek, holding back tears.
Gretchen sniffled and touched the corner of her eye. “In the meantime, we have our own affairs to attend to. When are you arriving, and how long are you staying?”
Kathryn decided staying through the weekend would be appropriate, and they’d play the following week by ear. The temptation of returning to her desk wasn’t nearly as attractive now that she had ideas of a new captain’s chair in mind. And there was no telling when she’d have another two weeks of shore leave again.
They signed off with promises to arrive Friday afternoon, and Kathryn let out a great sigh of relief. “I’m glad that’s over,” she said.
“Did you truly believe your mother would try and convince you to stay on Earth?”
Sitting back, Kathryn thought about it. “No, but I’d have been able to tell if she didn’t mean what she said. I think she’s honestly glad that I’m giving it a shot.”
Seven nodded. “I liked talking with her and Phoebe. They are wonderful people. I believe they would also be fond of my cousins, and my Aunt Irene.”
Kathryn felt a throb of trepidation. “One family at a time, darling,” she said.
“Yes, Kathryn,” Seven replied evenly. There was a knowing glint in her eye.
“Beverly next?”
“Yes.”
---
Captain Crusher let out an undignified yelp of joy when she heard the news. She clapped her hands together and grinned. “Fantastic. This is fantastic. When can you come for dinner?”
“We are spending this weekend at the Janeway farm in Bloomington. Perhaps the following weekend?” Seven suggested.
“My, you do move quickly. Getting to know the in-laws already, Seven?”
Seven blushed, and when she glanced at Kathryn, she saw color rising in freckled cheeks as well. “My family participates in a harvest festival each year. It seemed a good time to visit,” Kathryn said.
“Naturally,” Beverly teased. “Sounds fun. So listen, maybe I’ll throw together a party, to introduce you as a couple--”
Seven cut her off. “Not quite yet, Beverly. Perhaps another time?” Beverly always meant well, but Seven wanted to take this at her own pace, and revealing their relationship to a group of Captains and Admirals might as well be a Federation-wide announcement. “I believe we would like to stay… quiet for a few weeks at least. We have some things to resolve. I hope you understand.”
Beverly waved a hand assuredly. “Of course. How about just dinner, with, Jean-Luc and me, and Deanna and Will? The Enterprise returns to Earth in a couple of weeks. But I’ll want to do something before Christmas--we head out in January on the Pasteur for six months.”
With a look at Kathryn, who approved, Seven replied, “That would be lovely.” She bit her lip. “Is Jean-Luc there? I believe Kathryn has something to discuss with him.”
Beverly’s interest was clearly piqued, but Seven said nothing more. This was Kathryn’s business. “Sure, hang on.” She disappeared from the screen briefly, and Jean-Luc took her place. She poked her head over his shoulder. “I’ll leave you to it. Seven, call me soon, okay? I love you.”
“I love you too, Beverly.” From the corner of her eye, she knew Kathryn was caught unawares by her open expression of affection. It was just another thing Kathryn would learn about her as they got to know each other once again. “Hello, Jean-Luc.”
“Hello, Seven.” His eyes crinkled warmly. “I heard a ruckus a few minutes ago, so I take it the bird is in hand?”
Kathryn choked slightly, and Seven grinned. “She is. Very happily so. And she has something she’d like to talk with you about.” Seven moved over and allowed Kathryn to take the PADD. “I will be in the crow’s nest if you need me.”
Kathryn shot her a grateful look before turning to Jean-Luc. “Admiral,” she began, “There’s been something on my mind…”
Seven went below to retrieve her sketch pad before she climbed to the top of the nest. The view was stunning; she could see the beach where she and Kathryn had spent the day before, as well as the grove of trees where she had revealed her feelings. The moment would be recorded in Seven’s eidetic memory, but perhaps Kathryn would appreciate a more concrete representation. She sketched, heart warming as she drew the very tree under which she had first kissed, and been kissed in return. Her mind drifted as her hand traced and shaded the shapes, bringing that singular tree into relief so it stood out among the others. She didn’t know how much time had passed when Kathryn climbed the ladder to join her. The image was pretty, Seven thought; she would not be embarrassed to reveal it.
“Hello,” Seven said.
“Whatcha doing?”
“Sketching.”
“Care to share?”
“If you like.”
Kathryn slid under the railing and sat beside Seven. She looked at the picture, eyes softening perceptibly. Her fingers hovered unsteadily over the central tree. Her smile said everything to Seven. “It’s beautiful.” Kathryn looked up and out over the genuine view, teeth showing as her smile grew. “I love it.”
“It is for you.”
“Really?” She seemed inordinately pleased.
“Yes. It is not complete, but when it is, it will be yours.”
“Thank you darling. I’ll treasure it.” She laid her head on Seven’s shoulder.
“How was your conversation?”
Kathryn snuggled closer. “Good. Jean-Luc believes it will not be a problem. And I think he knows about what happened with my original promotion.”
“In what way?”
“He suggested that it would be far easier for me to regain my captaincy now than it would have been three years ago. Which can mean only one thing.”
Seven did not keep up with the internal Starfleet politics the way she had her first months on Earth, when she’d closely tracked Kathryn’s movements. “What’s that?”
“It had to have been Nechayev. She retired three years ago, or was forced out; I don’t know the details. All this time I thought I’d pulled one over on her when she went after you.” Kathryn stared into the distance blankly. “I was certain she’d lost her influence after the war. Her bias was obvious; how anyone could have followed her lead was ridiculous at that point. I guess she wasn’t alone in her beliefs.”
“Starfleet is not without its prejudiced individuals. I have known my share.” Kathryn’s affection for the institution of Starfleet was well-documented, but after her own treatment at their hands, it was curious that she could still be so blind to its imperfections.
“I’m sure,” she said, meeting Seven’s eyes. “Nechayev… Alynna was always over-zealous, but the war damaged her beyond repair. Her slide began after Wolf 359, but by the time we’d gotten home, I was shocked that she even had a commission.”
Seven shivered. She knew Nechayev’s husband had been assimilated. Her encounters with the woman had been frightening. At the time she hadn’t realized that Kathryn had been involved in keeping Seven from being taken apart, in the name of science, of course. Now it seemed obvious. “She was unkind to me,” Seven said carefully.
Kathryn chuckled. “She was unkind to me too, darling. The fact that I emerged unannounced from a Borg sphere inside Federation territory, with a couple of Borg drones in tow, was an unforgivable sin in her eyes. For a while she was convinced I was planning Earth’s assimilation.”
“Clearly she did not know you at all,” Seven said.
Kathryn sighed affectionately. “In any case, she’s out. Jean-Luc believes no one will block my request. It’s not a guarantee, but… it’s reassuring.”
“So our association will not damage your credibility?”
Kathryn’s eyes went wide. “Seven, you must be aware of your own reputation within Starfleet.”
“I am, and will always be, Borg.”
“But human too. Your work with the Propulsion group is widely known. The paper you wrote last year on quantum field theory is already part of the lexicon taught at the academy. Not to mention that you’re practically an adopted daughter to Jean-Luc Picard and Beverly Crusher, two of the most respected and admired Starfleet officers ever to serve. If anything, you’d grant me more credibility. And cause not a little jealousy among the higher-ups.”
“Pardon?”
“Please. You’re the most beautiful creature ever to set foot inside Headquarters. I’m sure you’ve been… approached by a number of officers in the past.”
Seven shrugged. “I suppose. I did not pay much attention.”
“Thank god for that,” Kathryn murmured.
“I am not the most beautiful, by the way. You are.”
Kathryn’s mouth curled. “Sweet talker.”
“It is true.”
Kathryn waved her hands. “Let’s not argue. Back to the subject--Jean-Luc said that you’ll be granted passage almost certainly.”
“Excellent.” Seven turned to Kathryn, taking her hands. “Have you decided then?”
Pale grey eyes turned darker for a moment. “I’m going to give myself a few weeks to settle into the idea, if you don’t object. I want to be sure.”
“A prudent course of action.”
“But I don’t think I’ll change my mind.”
“Neither do I.”
Kathryn grinned. “So that’s settled then.” She looked out onto the ocean. “What should we do today?”
“I thought we could have a swim, make love, have lunch, make love, sail a little, make love…”
Kathryn laughed, the throaty sound sending a corresponding tingle between Seven’s legs. “I get the picture.” She threw a leg over Seven’s. “How sturdy do you think this thing is anyway?”
“Sturdy enough.”
---
Part VI