The Stars Look Very Different Today (Part I) - Steve/Danny - PG-13
Author: dante_s_hell
Recipient: bfive0
Title: The Stars Look Very Different Today
Pairings/Characters: Steve/Danny, Kono, and Chin
Summary: A different look at how Steve and Danny met, set far into the future. In space.
Rating: PG-13
Content: AU, h/c, first time
Warnings: Minor character death (canon).
Word Count: 16,200
Disclaimer: All Hawaii Five-0 characters herein are the property of CBS. No copyright infringement is intended. All characters engaging in sexual activity are 16 years or older.
Author's Notes: bfive0 had a lovely list of ideas to choose from. I picked more than one. I hope you enjoy it, sweetie!
The Stars Look Very Different Today
Part 1
Steve was in his quarters, after having just pulled a double shift on the bridge. He was ready for bed, dressed in loose-fitting black pants. The trouble was he couldn't sleep. Hadn't been able to. Not since he'd received the transmission from his father.
Wandering over to the observation window, Steve stared out into the vastness of space. Looking at the stars usually calmed him, but tonight tranquility was out of his reach. He leaned tiredly against the tempered glass, letting the coolness seep into his skin.
"What's going on, dad?" Steve asked the question that had been plaguing him aloud. He glanced back at the computer. The image of his father was frozen on the screen.
Steve moved back to his desk and sat down. He activated the holovid and listened to his father speak though he'd already committed the message to memory.
Greetings, son. I hope this message finds you well. Jack McGarrett hesitated. You're probably very surprised to hear from me. It's been years since we've talked. He hesitated again, rubbing a hand across his mouth. Not much I can say about that. Just that I...well...it was for the best.
Steve stared at his father, feeling the familiar anger bubbling up inside him. His father had thought it was for the best to send Steve and his sister, Mary Ann, away? Steve hadn't seen it that way and neither had Mary.
You probably don't agree, but I did what I had to do. Jack paused, leaning forward in his chair. But now...something's happened. I never wanted to involve you in this, son, but...well, I no longer have a choice.
"Involve me in what, Dad?" Steve muttered at the screen.
It's time we talked. I need to see you, Steve. I'm hoping you can get leave and return to Earth for a visit. Another pause. I know it's a lot to ask, but it's very important. Do what you can and do it quickly. I'm afraid there's not a whole lot of time left.
No time? What did that even mean? It sounded ominous and every time he played his father's message, Steve felt a prickle of apprehension skitter up his spine. His instincts screamed at him to return home at once. That his family was in danger.
But Steve was part of an elite group; a special arm of the Interplanetary Alliance military. They had no specific designation. What they did have was full immunity and means to carry out any mission assigned or otherwise.
It wasn't easy to get leave. Steve had managed it, but he had to complete one other mission first.
A simple milk run and he'd be free to go home.
~.~.~
Chin sat in his chair to the left of the command seat. There was an awareness of the captain's presence at the back of his mind. And while Chin would never read Steve's thoughts without permission, he could still sense the unique frenetic energy they produced.
The 'lift doors slid open and Steve stepped onto the bridge. The crew snapped to attention. As was his usual custom, Steve gave a brief nod, making eye contact with each person. Everyone went back to their duties and Steve descended the few steps into the command area and sat in the central chair.
He said nothing.
Chin waited patiently. He knew there was much on Steve's mind and he would speak in due time. The only issue remained was which subject he would address first.
Steve's gaze never left the observation screen. "You're just going to sit there and wait me out, aren't you?" he muttered.
Chin gave a slight shrug he knew Steve would be able to see out of the corner of his eye. "I've got time."
"You're the only one who does," Steve said darkly.
Chin waited to see if he would go on. He knew all about the transmission from Steve's father. Steve had shared it with him.
Steve tapped his fingers on the edge of his armrest. "What's the status of our mission?"
Chin let out an almost imperceptable sigh. There would be nothing forthcoming on the father front then. Instead, Steve was going with the old stand by. The one that was the equivalent of the Are we there yet? question.
Luckily, Chin had been prepared and had the answer ready. "We should reach Xamphis orbit in 2.5 hours."
Steve nodded. "The medical supplies ready to be beamed down?"
"Everything's been triple-checked as per your orders. We'll be ready to go once we get there," Chin responded dryly.
"Good," Steve said before lapsing into silence again.
Chin swiveled his chair slightly, giving himself the ability to monitor his captain and friend while still maintaining an eye on the bridge operations.
The only indication Steve gave that he understood what Chin was doing was a tiny snort. Other than that, he kept his gaze firmly on the observation screen.
Having his friend's tacit permission, Chin gazed over him and didn't like what he saw.
There were circles under Steve's eyes and he was looking a little pale. But it was the rigid set of his shoulders and the stiffness of his neck that had Chin worried. Usually Steve found a way to relieve the tension whether it be a swim in the pool on the recreation deck or sparring with Kono. But it was apparent that even if Steve were utilizing these stress relievers they weren't working. Chin hoped their latest mission would be a distraction. Often a mission provided the necessary outlet when nothing else worked.
Unfortunately, thought Chin, this was going to be a quick and easy job. They were doing nothing more than delivering much needed medical and food supplies to a distant, environmentally-ravaged planet.
"You done?" Steve said quietly, turning his gaze on him.
Chin leaned back in his chair and nodded.
"What's your diagnosis?" Steve asked with just a hint of sarcasm.
"Do you really want me to tell you?" Chin asked with a lift of his eyebrow.
Steve let out a sigh. "You wouldn't be telling me anything I didn't already know."
"Why don't you tell me what you think is going on?" Chin asked, staring at him.
"I haven't been sleeping well," Steve answered.
Chin rolled his eyes. "Try not at all."
"I've gotten a few hours," Steve snapped at him.
Chin held up his hands. "Fine. Okay, you've had a few hours." A few hours wasn't much better than none, but Chin kept that thought to himself. "What else?"
Steve hesitated then said reluctantly, "I may be under a little stress."
"You're the king of understatements," Chin murmured.
Steve glared at him. "It's nothing I can't handle."
Chin leaned forward. "From where I'm sitting," he said quietly, "you aren't handling it at all."
Steve folded his arms across his chest. He looked away from Chin, giving him a good view of Steve's clenched jaw.
Chin sighed. "Look, I'm just worried about you."
"You don't need to be," Steve said tightly.
"Don't give me that," Chin responded, letting a little of the frustration he felt seep into his voice. Calm and cool was his forte, but there were times when he could not maintain either. It usually happened where family was concerned. "We're ohana."
Steve's gaze snapped back to him, eyes widening slightly. "Chin," he said and stopped. "I...think I needed to hear that," he continued more quietly, his face softening.
Chin laid a hand on his arm and nodded. It wasn't often that he invoked the language of their homeland. But, he mused, maybe he should start using it more often. If for nothing else then to remind Steve that there were people who cared about him. "Are you ready to talk about it now?"
"What's there to talk about?" Steve asked. "You already know what I know."
"I do," Chin confirmed with a nod. "Have you decided what you're going to do?"
"You already know the answer to that, too," Steve said.
Chin knew what Steve was going to do. There was no other recourse. But this wasn't about what Chin knew. It was about Steve talking so he said nothing.
Steve looked at him shrewdly as if he were the one with the telepathic ability. "I sent dad a transmission before I reported to the bridge. As soon as we're done on Xamphis, I'll return to Earth."
"Maybe you'll finally get the answers you've been looking for," Chin said quietly.
"Maybe," Steve allowed. "But I doubt it."
~.~.~
Kono stepped up onto the transporter pad next to the boxes of supplies. She looked at each member of her team. "Ready?"
"Ready, sir," the other two members of the landing party replied.
She gave a short nod and turned to the transporter chief. "Three to beam--"
"Wait!" The command rang out as the captain stepped into the room.
Chin was right behind him. He exchanged looks with Kono and gave a small, resigned shrug.
Inwardly, Kono deflated. For once, she'd like to go planetside without her captain. He had no business leaving the ship especially for something as mundane as delivering supplies. "Captain McGarrett, sir."
"Kono, I'm going with you," McGarrett announced unnecessarily as he stepped onto the transporter pad.
"Sir, there's no need," Kono protested. It was weak, but she had to try. It was her job as Security Chief to make sure the captain was protected. He was safer aboard ship than anywhere else.
Steve held up a hand."I'm going," he said evenly.
Chin shared another look with her.
I tried, cousin, she thought at him.
I know, he sent back, sounding weary. Don't worry about it. He's not going to change anytime soon.
"You two through?" Steve asked, slightly amused.
"Yes, Captain," Kono said quickly.
"Then let's beam down," McGarrett said, all business. "Chin, you have the con."
"Yes, sir," Chin said. Look after him, Kono.
Kono smiled and laid a hand on the stunner stowed in her hip holster. She had two more. One strapped to each thigh. She had other, non-military issue, weapons hidden about her person as well. She liked to be prepared and with McGarrett it was more of a necessity than a suggestion. I always do..
"Beam us down," McGarrett ordered.
A tingling sensation cascaded over her as the beam took hold. The first time she'd used a transporter it had taken her breath away. In a way it still did that, but it had more to do with the excitement of visiting a new planet, facing a new adventure.
Kono loved this part.
~.~.~
They materialized on the ground floor of a building. Despite all of the intel on a given mission, no one ever quite knew what to expect when beamed down to a planet. This mission was no different.
Steve was surprised to see so many people bustling back and forth, a few worker 'droids mingling with them.
The room was extremely large. More than half of it was occupied by a field hospital, but one corner had a food stand advertising hot food. Behind it were bins of fresh produce. The opposite corner held a small library.
The place was tidy. Every surface gleamed. Despite the bright lights of the hospital, the area was warm and comfortable. The warm-hued color scheme lent a tranquility to the infirmary and Steve was certain it aided in a patient's recovery. Whoever had decorated sure knew what they were doing. It was easy to overlook the scuffed and faded tile, the cracks running along the walls, and the metal and plastic pipes that crisscrossed under the rafters.
A man in blue coveralls was quickly making his way toward them. "Excuse me," he said somewhat breathlessly as he came up to them. "Are you from the Five-0?"
Steve nodded and stepped forward, sticking out his hand. "I'm Captain McGarrett of the Five-0." He gestured to Kono. "This is my Chief Security Officer, Lieutenant Kono Kalakaua." Then, with a nod at each of them, he introduced the ensigns in their party. "We're here to deliver the medical and food supplies requested. The Planetary Alliance would also like a report on how things are being run. So you'll be seeing some Alliance personnel from my ship doing inspections and conducting interviews."
"I'm Roger Benz. Part of a civilian non-profit here to offer aid to the Xamphians." He looked nervous. "Uh, er, we weren't expecting you until tomorrow."
Steve offered what he hoped was a reassuring smile. "We're early. I'm sure that won't be a problem." He couldn't quite keep the tone of command out of his voice.
Benz, looking even more nervous, cast a glance toward the hospital area. "I, uh, probably not."
Steve frowned at him. "Who's in charge here?"
"I'll take you to him," Benz offered hurriedly. "Follow me."
The man took off across the floor, leaving the supplies behind.
Steve went after him, knowing his team would follow. He was curious as to why Benz was so nervous.
When they reached the hospital proper, Benz held up a hand. "Just a minute. Only authorized personnel are allowed beyond this point," he said and quickly disappeared behind a curtain, nearly knocking over a medbot.
Steve crossed his arms and scowled at the fluttering curtain. He was not used to being ordered around by a civilian.
"Captain." Kono stepped up close to him. "I'm sure--" A loud voice from the other side of the curtain cut her off.
"What to you mean they're here, Benz? You're kidding me, right? Tomorrow is when they're supposed to be here and tomorrow is when I'll talk to them!"
Kono's eyes widened and she took a step forward.
Steve stared at her. He opened his mouth to speak, but apparently the man yelling at poor Benz wasn't through.
"An inspection? What are you talking about? They were just supposed to beam down the supplies and be off. How hard is that? Damn it! I don't have time for this!"
A slow grin spread across Kono's face. She grabbed the curtain and yanked it back, revealing the two men.
"Now just a freakin' minute," the man with Benz turned to glare at her. "You shouldn't--Kono?" he interrupted himself in surprise.
Steve's gaze narrowed on the man that was now staring at Kono. He was shorter than Steve, but compact and muscular. He had the most vivid blue eyes Steve had ever seen and right now they were twinkling.
"Danny!" Kono exclaimed happily as she wrapped her arms around him in a bear hug, lifting him off the ground.
Steve watched as...Danny...returned the hug with equal fervor, embracing Kono as if she was a long lost sister. "Kono Kalakaua! I can't believe you're here."
"It's good to see you, Danny!" Kono said, putting him down.
Danny looked from his feet now firmly on the floor back up to Kono. "Still like doing the heavy lifting, huh?"
"Aw, Danny," she said, laughing. "You aren't heavy."
"No, I guess not," Danny responded. "At least not to you."
"Not to me," Kono agreed.
Steve continued to study the pair. Pieces of their conversation flowed into place and Steve was beginning to get a clearer picture of what was going on. So Danny knew about Kono's exceptional strength. Which meant that he probably knew about her enhanced prosthetic limbs. That was interesting because as far as Steve knew not many people did.
"Danny," Kono was saying. "I'd like you to meet Captain Steve McGarrett. Captain, this is Doctor Daniel Williams."
The smile on Danny's face fell away as he studied McGarrett. Steve knew he was being assessed when deep blue eyes drifted over him from head to toe. If he had been a shy man, Steve would have blushed under the appreciative gaze. Instead, he shifted his feet further apart and puffed up his chest, watching as Danny's lips parted on a sigh.
Steve's pulse quickened.
"You're here early," the doctor said, voice a little rough as he repeated Benz' earlier words.
Steve cocked an eyebrow. "I am. I trust you can handle that."
Danny crossed his arms and the material of his green tunic stretched tight across his biceps.
Steve resisted the urge to reach out and touch. The compulsion surprised him. He had only been in Danny's presence for a few minutes, but he was drawn to the doctor in way he'd never been attracted to anyone else. It left him feeling confused, but strangely captivated as well.
"I can...handle it, sir," Danny said. "I suppose you want a tour?"
Steve wanted to spend more time with the man that so intrigued him. A tour was the perfect opportunity. "Yes, I'd like a tour of the place. As long as I'm not taking you away from work," he said pointedly.
Danny shrugged. "Nothing that won't keep."
Steve turned to Kono. "Coordinate with Benz. Get the supplies put away."
"Yes, sir," Kono said.
"Hey, Kono? Tell Chin I said hello," Danny said.
Kono nodded, her eyes going unfocused for a moment. "He says hi in return and hopes he'll get a chance to see you before we leave," Kono told him with a smile.
"Must get a little crazy working with those two," Danny said to Steve as they started walking. "All those silent conversations they have."
"You know Chin and Kono well?" Steve asked cautiously.
"We go way back," Danny said.
Steve wanted to know more, but Danny had gone silent so he decided to get back to the business at hand. "So tell me about this place."
"It's an old hospital," Danny answered. "Most of it is shut down. Ruined in the 'quakes that hit this planet about five years ago."
"According to the information provided by the Alliance your medical facility serves the entire population of Xamphis," Steve said.
"It doesn't sound as bad as all of that," Danny said. "Most of the people of Xamphis were killed in the 'quakes and the volcanic activity sparked by the quakes. The population is under five hundred. I have two doctors and three nurses on staff besides myself. And we have a slew of volunteers who have had medical training plus a few medbots. We manage."
Steve frowned. "Why don't the Xamphians relocate?"
"This is their home," Danny said simply. He stopped at a door and opened it, gesturing for Steve to step inside. "Now, come on."
Steve found himself in a brightly lit hospital room. "How many hospital rooms do you have?"
"About twenty in each wing. Forty altogether," Danny said, closing the door behind him. "But that's not why I brought you in here."
"It's not?" Steve asked in confusion. "Is there something here you want to show me?"
Danny shook his head. "I just thought it might be easier to do this here where there aren't any prying eyes."
"Prying eyes? Dr. Williams, what are you talking about?"
"Call me Danny." He patted the bed. "Why don't you take a seat."
A nasty suspicion entered Steve's mind. He crossed his arms defensively. "What's going on?"
"Relax," Danny soothed. "I just want to check you out."
Even though he knew Danny meant those words to be innocent, Steve shivered.
Danny's eyes narrowed on him. "Look, it won't take me but a few minutes to give you a quick examination."
"I don't need an examination, Doc," Steve protested.
Danny put his hands on his hips. "Quit the macho crap, Captain. I know something is wrong."
Steve stiffened. "I'm fine." There was no way Danny could know about his father. Unless...no, there was no evidence that Danny was a telepath and even if he was Steve was sure Danny wouldn't violate his privacy. His instincts told him he could trust Danny.
Yet another weird thing about this encounter.
"You don't look well, Captain," Danny said quietly, obviously trying a different approach.
"I'm...tired," Steve said. "That's all."
Danny let out a sigh. "You have a hard job. Stressful."
"Not news," Steve growled.
Danny held up his hand. "I'm just trying to help."
"I'm fine," Steve repeated. "We really should finish with the tour." He turned to go.
"Wait," Danny said, laying a hand on Steve's arm.
There was a tiny shock at the contact, followed by a warm tingling sensation.
Steve let out a breath, feeling a bit more relaxed. The worried feeling he'd been carrying around since he'd received his father's message seemed to lighten. He stared at Danny. "You're an empath," he said in wonder.
"What? No!" Danny protested.
"I know what I felt," Steve said. "It's okay, Danny, you don't have to lie about it."
"Why would I lie about that," Danny responded, but he looked shaken.
And Steve didn't blame him. True empaths were few and far between. Once discovered, they were often sent back to earth to Alliance headquarters where they would do the most good. They were treated well, but were guarded at all times. Their rights as Alliance citizens remained intact, but they had few freedoms. They were a commodity that needed to be protected. "I won't say anything."
"You won't say anything because it's not true," Danny snapped. He ran a hand through his blond hair and sighed. "Look, I'm slightly empathic. Like most doctors are. I can sense when something is wrong. That's it." He looked pleadingly at Steve. "You have to believe me, Captain. That's it."
Steve remained unconvinced, but he let it go for now. He wouldn't betray Danny's secret. He had no desire to see Danny whisked away where Steve would never see him again. "Let's just forget it, okay?"
Danny looked uncertain. But when Steve smiled at him, he managed a tiny smile back. "Okay," Danny said somewhat relieved. "But you probably need to get some sleep."
"Noted," Steve replied.
The door opened. "Oh, there you are, Dr. Williams," a nurse said.
"What is it, Nurse Bobrov?" Danny asked. "A patient?"
Nurse Bobrov shook her head. "It's Grace. She's looking for you."
Danny's face lit up. He looked suddenly much younger.
Steve could only stare at him.
"Come with me, Captain," Danny said. "You've got to meet Grace. You're gonna love her. Everyone loves her."
"Yeah?" Steve asked, following Danny back to the main room. He wondered if Grace was Danny's wife and was a bit jealous at the thought.
"Oh, yeah," Danny responded enthusiastically.
"Danno!" A little girl flew into Danny's arms.
Danny didn't miss a beat. He swung her off the floor as Grace wrapped her arms around his neck. "Captain McGarrett, this is Grace. Gracie, this is Captain McGarrett."
A feeling of relief swept over him and Steve didn't bother analyzing why. Instead, he held out his hand to the little girl and they shook. "It's nice to meet you, Grace."
"Do you have a ship?" Grace asked, looking at him wide-eyed. "Danno says captains have ships."
"I do," Steve confirmed, smiling. "It's called the Five-0."
"Is it here?" Grace asked eagerly.
"Well, no," Steve said. "It's up in space. If it's okay with your daddy, maybe you can come up and see it."
"He's not my daddy," Grace said solemnly. Then she cupped Danny's cheeks and declared, "he's my Danno." She kissed him on the forehead.
"Oh," Steve responded, nonplussed. He looked at Danny.
"Hey, Monkey, why don't you go wait in my office? I need to finish talking to Captain McGarrett and then we can go have lunch. Okay?" Danny asked, setting her down.
"Okay," she said. She turned to Steve. "Can I really see your ship?" she asked shyly.
Steve nodded. "If it's okay with your Danno."
"We'll talk about it later, Monkey," Danny promised. "Now scoot."
They watched her as she skipped away, singing a tune Steve didn't know.
"Grace's parents were killed in the big quake," Danny said quietly. "She was hurt pretty bad when she got to me. I took care of her and she got better."
"How old was she when they died?" Steve said just as quietly.
"Three," Danny answered.
"You're like a dad to her," Steve murmured.
"Yes, and she's like a daughter to me," Danny said. "But she still remembers something about her parents and I didn't want to take that away from her."
"So now she has a Danno, too," Steve concluded. "That's cute."
Danny frowned at him. "It is what it is."
Steve shrugged. "Yeah, cute."
Danny scowled. "No, not cute."
"Okay. Sweet, then," Steve said, smirking.
Danny scowled even harder. "Shut up," he muttered.
"Hey, I'm a captain and you should address me properly," Steve said sternly, but he was openly grinning.
"Fine," Danny said with a put upon sigh. "Shut up...sir."
"That's better," Steve said with a chuckle.
Danny just rolled his eyes at him.
~.~.~
"So can we, Danno?" Grace asked.
"Hmmm?" Danny asked distractedly.
Steve McGarrett had surprised him. When Danny had heard the Five-0 had arrived earlier than expected, he had been ready to rip into the captain, commanding officer or not. But one look at Steve in that tight, black uniform had shut him up pretty quick. The tall captain with the stubble along his squared jaw had Danny's heart skipping a beat. So much so that he hadn't been able to stop staring. And that's when he'd noticed that McGarrett looked tired. It was more than doctor's intuition that had him hustling McGarrett into an empty hospital room. Danny had wanted to take care of him.
Still did.
Danny looked down at his right hand, rubbing his thumb along the pads of his fingers. That had been another surprise. The warm tickle that he'd felt when he touched McGarrett had thrown him for a loop. He'd never had that sensation before and he didn't know what it meant. It scared him.
He couldn't be developing latent empathic abilities, could he? It was something he didn't want to think about.
"Danno?" Grace's voice intruded on his thoughts. "Can we?"
Danny gave himself a little shake and focused on the little girl sitting across from him. "Can we, what?"
"Can we go up to the ship with Captain McGarrett?" Grace asked hopefully as she toyed with the little bit of food she still had on her plate.
Danny sighed. "I don't know, Monkey. It depends if it's okay with Captain McGarrett."
"He already said we could," Grace protested. "It just has to be okay with you. So is it okay, Danno? Please can we go?"
Danny smiled, knowing there was no way to deny her. He hoped that Steve wouldn't rescind his invitation. Danny highly doubted it. Steve didn't seem the type of person to not mean what he said. "Okay, Monkey."
"Yay!" Grace cheered.
Danny laughed, but stopped abruptly as the ground trembled.
"Danno?" Grace half-whispered, smile falling from her face.
Everything went still and Danny waited half a beat before letting out a breath. "It's okay, monkey," he reassured, stretching an arm across the table and taking her hand in his, giving it a squeeze.
Grace gripped his hand as she stared at him, eyes full of fear.
"It's okay," Danny said again, voice steady.
Grace started to slowly nod, releasing her tight hold of Danny's hand.
The ground rocked again, sending Grace's cup of milk toppling over, liquid spilling along the table and onto the floor. Plates and silverware rattled.
Grace stumbled out of her chair, knocking it over. She nearly tumbled to the floor, but she grabbed onto Danny, throwing her arms around his neck, and holding on tight.
Danny wrapped his arms around her, holding just as tight. "I got you," he murmured, getting to his feet and stumbling toward the doorway where he stopped and slid down to the floor. "It's okay, Grace."
The ground continued to shake, knocking things to the floor. Grace flinched and burrowed deeper into Danny's embrace with every resounding strike of an object against tile.
Danny curled himself around her, rubbing her back. "I've got you, Grace. It's okay," he continued his litany.
Grace mumbled something against his neck, but he couldn't make out the words.
Finally, the ground stilled. Everything going quiet.
Danny looked up cautiously.
Grace continued to mumble.
In the stillness, Danny could make out the words between her tiny sobs. "Please don't leave me. Please don't leave me. Please don't leave me."
Tears pricked at Danny's eyes and he rubbed his cheek against her hair. "Not going anywhere, Monkey. I'm right here. Right here."
He rocked her gently, soothing her until she fell asleep. Even then he didn't rise and take her to her own bed.
Danny held her and wondered why the tremors were back.
~.~.~
"So what do you want to know?" Chin asked, leaning back in his chair.
Steve looked startled and put down his coffee cup. "What makes you think I want to know anything?"
"Really, Steve," Kono said as she sat down across from him. "We don't have to be mind readers to know you want information."
"You're right," Steve said. "I do want information. I wouldn't be a good captain if I didn't know all the facts."
"Facts?" teased Kono. "There aren't any facts. You're just curious about Danny."
"I just want to know who I'm dealing with," Steve said defensively.
Chin's lips curled into a knowing smile. "Of course you do."
Steve frowned at him. "Chin," he warned.
"Dr. Daniel Williams. Rank: Lieutenant Commander," Chin interjected smoothly.
"I got that from his file," Steve muttered darkly. "I want to know more about him." He turned to Kono. "How exactly do you know him?"
Kono lifted a brow. "You mean you haven't guessed?"
Steve drummed his fingers on the table and waited for the response he wanted.
"Okay," Kono said, turning serious. "You remember me telling you about the Battle of Mionga?"
Steve nodded, brow furrowing. "Yes, I remember. You were hurt pretty badly."
"Her arms were totally mangled," Chin said quietly. "The doctors were going to have to amputate them."
"They were going to outfit me with prosthetics," Kono continued.
"But they're more than prosthetics," Steve said, remembering some of their former missions in which Kono's exceptional strength had saved the day.
"Danny's area of research is bionics," Chin responded. He reached out and grasped Kono's wrist, turning her hand palm up, and touching her fingertips. "Danny was the one who did the surgery."
Kono held out her arms. "He designed these babies."
Steve nodded, somewhat impressed. He wondered what else the man could do and he was looking forward to finding out.
"Danny's a good guy," Chin said then added with a laugh. "Although he can rant with the best of them."
Steve gave him a wry smile. "I noticed."
"Hard not to, Captain," Kono said with a smirk. "Better be careful. He'll talk circles around you."
"I think I can hold my own," Steve said with a drawl. Competition was good for the soul and who knew what the prize might be. The thought filled him with anticipation.
Kono and Chin exchanged looks with each other, holding their gaze for a long moment.
"Okay, enough of that. What are you two saying to each other?" Steve asked suspiciously.
"Nothing," Kono said with a little grin.
"Right," Steve said, not believing her for a moment.
Chin looked over at him, an amused twinkle in his eyes. "Just curious to see how things are going to turn out."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Steve asked. Maybe he was a blushing man after all because he could feel the heat in his cheeks. Damn his friends for knowing him so well.
"Nothing," Kono said again, waggling her eyebrows. "Nothing at all."
Chin leaned forward, elbow on the table. "Don't worry," he said sagely. "We'll be rooting for you."
"Rooting for you both," Kono corrected.
Steve opened his mouth to argue, but he could think of nothing to refute their words. Especially when he was rooting for them too. He really wanted to get to know Danny Williams.
Captain McGarrett. Lieutenant Murdoch here.
Steve touched the badge at his chest and answered his science officer's hail. "Yes, Lieutenant."
Please check the nearest station. There's something you need to see.
Steve looked at Chin and Kono. Then he toggled the switch on the computer table in front of him. Immediately, information appeared on the screen.
"There seems to have been seismic activity down on the planet," Chin reported as he scanned the information.
Steve stood up abruptly. "I'm beaming down."
"Captain--" Kono started.
Steve waved her off, striding quickly out of the room. He was anxious to get down to the planet. He needed to see for himself that everything was okay. That Danny was okay.
~.~.~
"You're going to be fine, Aga," Danny said, offering a smile to the patient sitting on the gurney in front of him.
"Thank you, Dr. Williams," Aga returned.
"You go home and get some rest," Danny said.
The Xamphian nodded, getting off the gurney. "Let us hope we have no more tremors."
Danny nodded, agreeing fervently with that statement. He hated seeing Grace so frightened. She still wasn't over the scare the tremors had provoked. Even now she was sitting right outside the curtain that blocked Danny and his patient from view. "Grace?" he called. "You still there?"
"Right here, Danno," Grace called back. "I can still see your feet."
Danny grinned. "That's good, Monkey! I just have one more patient to see and I'll be done."
"Okay, Danno."
"Take care of yourself, Aga," Danny said, returning his attention to his patient.
"Be well, Dr. Williams."
~.~.~
The first thing Steve saw when he beamed down was Grace sitting on the floor in front of an examination room. She was leaning forward, ear practically to the ground. Steve frowned and hurried over to her. "Grace?"
Grace's head popped up. "Captain McGarrett!"
"What are you doing?" Steve asked, kneeling next to her.
Grace pointed under the curtain. "See?"
Steve bent down to get a closer look. "I see boots."
"Danno's," Grace said, nodding solemnly.
"So why are we looking at Danno's boots?" Steve asked curiously.
"I gotta make sure Danno's okay," Grace said earnestly. "I don't want him to go anywhere."
She went quiet and Steve really looked at her. She had crossed her arms as if to ward off a chill, her little body stiff with tension. Eyes slightly watery with fear.
Something in Steve's gut tightened. This little girl had lost her parents and now she was afraid of losing Danny. He laid a gentle hand on Grace's shoulder. "I don't think your Danno is going to go anywhere."
"I just don't want anything to happen to him," Grace said in a small voice.
"I don't either," Steve responded, knowing he meant it. He looked under the curtain. "His boots are still there, Gracie."
"Captain Steve?" Grace asked, catching Steve in surprise. "Will you make sure nothing happens to my Danno?"
Steve didn't want to make promises he couldn't keep. The Five-0 was to leave the planet in a few days and the likelihood of seeing Danny again after the mission was almost non-existent. The very thought of that left Steve feeling cold. And seeing the pleading look on Grace's face made it hard to deny her anything especially this one request. He thought he could get used to watching over Danny all too easily. So he threw caution to the winds and said, "I'll do my best, Gracie."
How things would pan out he didn't know, but he didn't want to turn out to be a liar.
The curtain rattled and was pushed aside. Danny stared at them, looking amused. "What's going here? You two look like you're planning something. And somehow that makes me nervous."
"It's okay, Danno," Grace said, standing up. "Captain Steve and I just had a few things to talk about."
"You did?" Danny asked, lifting an eyebrow in Steve's direction.
Steve shrugged. "Nothing for you to worry about, Danno."
Danny snorted. "Nothing to worry about...right. Not reassuring, McGarrett. Also, Grace is the only one who can call me Danno."
"He can call you Danno if he wants to," Grace said. "I don't mind."
A slow grin spread across Steve's face. "Hear that, Danno? Grace doesn't mind."
Danny frowned at him, but Steve could see the corners of his mouth twitching. "I'm going to have to put up with the two of you, aren't I?" he said, shaking his head.
Steve looked at Grace who was looking much happier than she had been when he'd first arrived. She was standing close to Danny as if she couldn't bear to be too far away from him, but she no longer looked afraid. And Steve was glad.
"You're stuck with us, Danno," Grace said.
The words startled Steve and he shifted his gaze to Danny.
"I am?" Danny asked, eyes never leaving Steve's face.
Steve licked his lips. "Yeah," he murmured huskily.
The room seemed to shrink to the two of them. All the sounds fading away. Steve had the thought that he could hear Danny's heart beat in time with his own. It was a fanciful notion, but as they continued to gaze at each other, Steve wanted it to be true. The idea of being in sync with Danny took his breath away.
"I...uh..." Danny appeared lost for words.
"Will you have dinner with me tonight?" Steve blurted.
Danny blinked at him.
"Can we, Danno?" Grace asked excitedly.
Danny looked down at her. "I don't know, Grace."
"The both of you would be welcome," Steve inserted. "Please?"
"He said please," Grace said.
"That he did," Danny agreed. "Okay, Steve. We'd love to have dinner with you."
"Up on the ship?" Steve asked hopefully.
Grace squealed.
Danny chuckled. "Up on the ship."
~.~.~
They materialized on the transporter pad and Danny gave himself a little shake. It was pure imagination, but he liked to make sure that all of his molecules were back in place.
"Danny!" Chin called, sweeping him into a hug.
"Hey, Chin," Danny said, clapping the man on the back.
"Hey, brah," Kono greeted, getting her own hug.
"Danny gets a hug, but I don't?" Steve asked with a pout.
Kono and Chin exchanged knowing looks.
"Right, Captain. Is that a new crew policy?" Kono asked cheekily.
"You got me there, Kono," Steve said, laughing.
Kono and Chin exchanged another meaningful look.
Danny wondered about that, but as he looked at Steve, saw the way he was smiling, saw that he looked at ease, Danny realized that it no longer appeared as if Steve had the weight of the universe on his shoulders. Yesterday he'd looked tense and exhausted. Had that been only yesterday? Danny shook his head.
"Danno?" Grace tugged at his hand.
"Kono, Chin," Danny said. "I'd like you to meet Grace. My little girl."
"Hi," Kono said, holding out her hand.
Grace took it and the two of them shook. "Danno says you're really strong."
"I am," Kono said, nodding.
"Bet you can't carry me," Grace said with a sparkle in her eye.
"That so," Kono said. "Bet I can."
Grace held up her arms.
Kono lifted her onto her shoulders and marched out of the transporter room. Grace's giggle floated back to them as they disappeared from view.
Danny smiled, feeling some of his anxiety dissipate in the wake of his child's laughter. "Thank you for this, Steve. It was exactly what Grace needed."
"What do you mean, Danny?" Chin asked as the three of them fell into step, following Kono and Grace.
It was Steve who answered. "The tremors really scared her."
Danny looked at him in surprise. "How did you know that?"
"Any child would be afraid," Steve said, "but she wouldn't let you out of her sight. And after what happened to her parents, I don't blame her."
"Yeah, that's exactly it," Danny agreed. He stopped in the middle of the corridor and peered up at Steve, noting his hunched posture and somber expression. This was the Steve from yesterday. "You okay?" Danny asked, concerned.
Steve nodded tightly. "I just know what it's like," he said quietly, "to lose a parent. My mom died when I was young."
"I'm sorry to hear that, Steve." Danny laid a hand on Steve's arm, squeezing gently.
Steve shuddered, eyes closing briefly.
Danny let out a gasp. The tingling sensation he'd thought was a fluke was still there. Stronger this time. He wanted to pull away, wanted it to stop, but a look of peace was settling over Steve's face.
"Danny," Steve murmured.
Danny skated his hand up Steve's arm, feeling warmth spread along his fingertips and he had to bite his lip to stifle another gasp. Whatever was happening to him, to them, gave him such an extraordinary feeling. It was like all the empty places in his heart had been filled. He didn't know if he could live without this feeling and when Steve left, well, Danny wasn't sure what he was going to do.
"Hey." There was a hand on his shoulder. "Hey!"
Danny looked over at Chin who was staring at him with an unusual expression on his face.
"What...exactly...is happening here?" Chin asked, brow wrinkling.
Danny snatched his hand away, and tried to ignore the moan of disappointment coming from Steve. But he couldn't quite help throwing a quick glance his way. Steve looked slightly dazed, but then he straightened.
"It's nothing," Steve said.
Chin crossed his arms over his chest. "Didn't look like 'nothing' to me."
"We're not talking about this, Chin," Steve said in a hard voice.
"Whatever you're thinking, Steve," Chin said softly. "There's nothing wrong."
Steve frowned at him in confusion.
"Whenever you're ready to talk...either of you...."
"There's nothing to talk about," Danny said quickly. And there wasn't. You couldn't talk about something you couldn't explain even to yourself.
Chin nodded. He gestured down the corridor. "Perhaps we should try to catch up."
"Yeah, good idea," Danny said, relieved.
"Let's go, then," Steve said and resumed walking.
Danny and Chin followed.
~.~.~
"Dinner was really good," Danny said as he helped Steve clear the dishes from the table. "It's been so long since I've eaten ship food, I'd forgotten what it tasted like."
"Yeah, I guess you don't get much steak down on the planet," Steve said.
"No, not really. They have something similar, but....no." Danny wrinkled his nose.
Steve smiled. "Then I'm glad you agreed to have dinner with me."
"I don't think I had much of a choice," Danny said with a dim smile.
Steve wanted to ask what was wrong, but he really didn't need to. After what had happened in the corridor, Danny had gone quiet. He didn't appear to be frightened or angry. His demeanor was more contemplative. And Steve was alright with that. After all, he couldn't stop thinking about it either.
"Danny, what do you think is happening between us?" Steve dared to ask.
"I don't know," Danny answered, running a hand through his hair. "I can hardly explain it let alone tell you what it means."
"But...but it doesn't bother you, right?" Steve asked tentatively.
Danny looked at him. "No, it doesn't bother me." He went quiet and then confessed, "I like it."
"I do, too," Steve told him. He reached out and brushed his fingers along Danny's cheek. The tingle was expected, but this time it was different. The warmth was still there, but the tiny shocks weren't. It was more like the fluttering of rose petals against his skin.
Danny sighed, nestling his cheek against the palm of Steve's hand. "Feels good," he murmured.
Steve stepped closer to him. All of a sudden he had the strongest desire to feel all of Danny pressed against him, skin to skin.
"Look, Danno!" Grace called from the other room. "You gotta see!"
Steve pulled away reluctantly. He couldn't believe he'd forgotten that Grace was with them.
Danny looked wistful, but gave him a smile. "Come on. Let's see what she's discovered."
Steve followed Danny. When they reached Grace, she was staring out the observation window.
Grace glanced over her shoulder at them. "Look, that's our home, Danno."
"It sure is, Grace," Danny said, subdued.
A slow ache was building in Steve's chest as he glanced at the orange planet below them. What Grace said was true. Xamphis was Danny's home, her home. But it felt wrong to Steve. Their home should be with him. He just wasn't sure if it would work out that way.
Danny shifted closer to him and Steve cautiously slipped an arm around his waist, embracing the warmth that surrounded him.
With a soft sigh, Danny relaxed against him.
As they stood looking at the stars, Grace's soft voice flowing over them, Steve placed a gentle kiss to Danny's temple.
And saw stars of a different kind.
~.~.~
Steve was helping Danny sort out supplies. The silence between them was comfortable. Highly aware of each other, they orbited around one another, enjoying their close proximity.
Something, though, had been weighing on Steve's mind and he decided to speak. "Danny, you ever think about leaving Xamphis?"
Danny put down the roll of bandages he was holding. "Yeah, every now and then. I could get new orders."
"True," Steve said. "You've been here awhile. You should have transferred out a long time ago."
"I kept asking to extend. I guess no one's really cared."
Steve frowned. "According to Chin and Kono, you're at the top of your field. You should probably be in one of the Alliance's specialized medical facilities or on the flagship of the fleet. Instead you're here."
"Nothing wrong with here," Danny snapped.
Steve held up a hand. "Hey, sorry. Not what I meant."
Danny's tone softened. "I know. I just...look, I'm really not sure what's wrong with me today."
"Does it have anything to do with last night?" Steve asked, afraid of the answer. He'd thought they'd had a good time, but Danny had had time to think about it. Maybe he wasn't happy with the way things were going between them. It hurt Steve to think that might be true.
"No, not really," Danny replied after a long pause.
Steve tensed. "Not really?"
Danny sighed and looked away. "I just met you a couple of days ago, Steve, and...." He rubbed the back of his neck.
"And?" Steve pressed.
"Feels like I've known you forever," Danny shrugged. "Sorry if that sounds stupid."
Steve took a step closer to him. "It's not stupid," he said. "I feel the same way."
"You do?" Danny asked hesitantly.
"You must have realized it," Steve said.
Danny gave a slow nod. "Yeah, I guess I did. I just don't know what to make of it. It's like we made an instant connection. That's never happened to me before. Not even with my ex-wife."
"You have an ex-wife?" Steve asked in surprise.
Danny rolled his eyes. "Can we please focus here, Steven?"
Steve filed the information away for another time. "If it makes you feel any better, it's never happened to me before either. But I do know it's not something we should ignore."
"I don't want to ignore it," Danny responded quickly. "But what are we going to do about it?"
"I--" Steve started to say, but was interrupted by a tiny beep from his communicator badge.
Chin to Captain McGarrett.
"McGarrett here. What have you got, Chin?"
You're needed back on ship, Captain.
"Okay, I'll be there in a few minutes."
Captain...Steve, you're going to want to see this. Trust me. There isn't any time to waste.
Steve frowned, noting the urgency in his first officer's voice. Something was wrong.
"Whatever it is, it doesn't sound too good," Danny said. "You should go. We'll talk later."
Steve saw the understanding in his eyes. Even so, he was loathed to leave Danny. So much was being left unsaid and Steve had a feeling his whole life hung on this one important conversation that they weren't going to be allowed to finish. At least right now anyway. "I'll hold you to that." Then to Chin. "Ready to beam aboard."
The last thing he saw as he dissolved was Danny's beautiful face and the sad smile gracing it.
~.~.~
In his ready room, Steve sat, stunned. The incoming missive Chin had deemed important had just finished and Steve just couldn't believe it.
Chin, hip propped against the table, leaned toward him and put a hand to his shoulder. "Steve? You with me?"
Steve opened his mouth, throat working, but no words emerged.
"Take your time," Chin said quietly. "We'll talk about it when you're ready."
Steve dropped his head, hands clenched tight around the arms of his chair. There were so many things that needed to be done, but he felt impotent with fear. His mind was racing in a thousand different directions, but his body refused to move.
"We need to go," Steve finally gritted out. "I need to find my dad."
Chin nodded. "Yes. At high warp, we can be back on Earth in a few days," he paused. "What about the mission?"
Steve closed his eyes. Danny. "We're done. Supplies have been delivered. Reports have been made. There's no need to stay any longer." Danny!.
"Are you sure there's nothing else that needs to be taken care of?" Chin asked carefully.
Steve slowly opened his eyes, feeling bleak. "There's something I have to do. We'll be ready to leave at 0700 hours tomorrow morning. That should give you plenty of time to prep the ship for departure."
"Aye, sir," Chin acknowledged and stood up.
"Chin?" The desperate fear in his own voice scared him. "How could this happen? How could my father have just...disappeared?"
"I don't know, Steve," Chin answered quietly, "but we'll figure it out. We'll find him."
Steve wanted to believe him. He and his father had already spent so much of their lives apart.
"Take care of your business, Steve," Chin said gently.
"Right," Steve managed.
He had to return to the planet, but there was something he needed first.
*****
Part II
Recipient: bfive0
Title: The Stars Look Very Different Today
Pairings/Characters: Steve/Danny, Kono, and Chin
Summary: A different look at how Steve and Danny met, set far into the future. In space.
Rating: PG-13
Content: AU, h/c, first time
Warnings: Minor character death (canon).
Word Count: 16,200
Disclaimer: All Hawaii Five-0 characters herein are the property of CBS. No copyright infringement is intended. All characters engaging in sexual activity are 16 years or older.
Author's Notes: bfive0 had a lovely list of ideas to choose from. I picked more than one. I hope you enjoy it, sweetie!
The Stars Look Very Different Today
Part 1
Steve was in his quarters, after having just pulled a double shift on the bridge. He was ready for bed, dressed in loose-fitting black pants. The trouble was he couldn't sleep. Hadn't been able to. Not since he'd received the transmission from his father.
Wandering over to the observation window, Steve stared out into the vastness of space. Looking at the stars usually calmed him, but tonight tranquility was out of his reach. He leaned tiredly against the tempered glass, letting the coolness seep into his skin.
"What's going on, dad?" Steve asked the question that had been plaguing him aloud. He glanced back at the computer. The image of his father was frozen on the screen.
Steve moved back to his desk and sat down. He activated the holovid and listened to his father speak though he'd already committed the message to memory.
Greetings, son. I hope this message finds you well. Jack McGarrett hesitated. You're probably very surprised to hear from me. It's been years since we've talked. He hesitated again, rubbing a hand across his mouth. Not much I can say about that. Just that I...well...it was for the best.
Steve stared at his father, feeling the familiar anger bubbling up inside him. His father had thought it was for the best to send Steve and his sister, Mary Ann, away? Steve hadn't seen it that way and neither had Mary.
You probably don't agree, but I did what I had to do. Jack paused, leaning forward in his chair. But now...something's happened. I never wanted to involve you in this, son, but...well, I no longer have a choice.
"Involve me in what, Dad?" Steve muttered at the screen.
It's time we talked. I need to see you, Steve. I'm hoping you can get leave and return to Earth for a visit. Another pause. I know it's a lot to ask, but it's very important. Do what you can and do it quickly. I'm afraid there's not a whole lot of time left.
No time? What did that even mean? It sounded ominous and every time he played his father's message, Steve felt a prickle of apprehension skitter up his spine. His instincts screamed at him to return home at once. That his family was in danger.
But Steve was part of an elite group; a special arm of the Interplanetary Alliance military. They had no specific designation. What they did have was full immunity and means to carry out any mission assigned or otherwise.
It wasn't easy to get leave. Steve had managed it, but he had to complete one other mission first.
A simple milk run and he'd be free to go home.
~.~.~
Chin sat in his chair to the left of the command seat. There was an awareness of the captain's presence at the back of his mind. And while Chin would never read Steve's thoughts without permission, he could still sense the unique frenetic energy they produced.
The 'lift doors slid open and Steve stepped onto the bridge. The crew snapped to attention. As was his usual custom, Steve gave a brief nod, making eye contact with each person. Everyone went back to their duties and Steve descended the few steps into the command area and sat in the central chair.
He said nothing.
Chin waited patiently. He knew there was much on Steve's mind and he would speak in due time. The only issue remained was which subject he would address first.
Steve's gaze never left the observation screen. "You're just going to sit there and wait me out, aren't you?" he muttered.
Chin gave a slight shrug he knew Steve would be able to see out of the corner of his eye. "I've got time."
"You're the only one who does," Steve said darkly.
Chin waited to see if he would go on. He knew all about the transmission from Steve's father. Steve had shared it with him.
Steve tapped his fingers on the edge of his armrest. "What's the status of our mission?"
Chin let out an almost imperceptable sigh. There would be nothing forthcoming on the father front then. Instead, Steve was going with the old stand by. The one that was the equivalent of the Are we there yet? question.
Luckily, Chin had been prepared and had the answer ready. "We should reach Xamphis orbit in 2.5 hours."
Steve nodded. "The medical supplies ready to be beamed down?"
"Everything's been triple-checked as per your orders. We'll be ready to go once we get there," Chin responded dryly.
"Good," Steve said before lapsing into silence again.
Chin swiveled his chair slightly, giving himself the ability to monitor his captain and friend while still maintaining an eye on the bridge operations.
The only indication Steve gave that he understood what Chin was doing was a tiny snort. Other than that, he kept his gaze firmly on the observation screen.
Having his friend's tacit permission, Chin gazed over him and didn't like what he saw.
There were circles under Steve's eyes and he was looking a little pale. But it was the rigid set of his shoulders and the stiffness of his neck that had Chin worried. Usually Steve found a way to relieve the tension whether it be a swim in the pool on the recreation deck or sparring with Kono. But it was apparent that even if Steve were utilizing these stress relievers they weren't working. Chin hoped their latest mission would be a distraction. Often a mission provided the necessary outlet when nothing else worked.
Unfortunately, thought Chin, this was going to be a quick and easy job. They were doing nothing more than delivering much needed medical and food supplies to a distant, environmentally-ravaged planet.
"You done?" Steve said quietly, turning his gaze on him.
Chin leaned back in his chair and nodded.
"What's your diagnosis?" Steve asked with just a hint of sarcasm.
"Do you really want me to tell you?" Chin asked with a lift of his eyebrow.
Steve let out a sigh. "You wouldn't be telling me anything I didn't already know."
"Why don't you tell me what you think is going on?" Chin asked, staring at him.
"I haven't been sleeping well," Steve answered.
Chin rolled his eyes. "Try not at all."
"I've gotten a few hours," Steve snapped at him.
Chin held up his hands. "Fine. Okay, you've had a few hours." A few hours wasn't much better than none, but Chin kept that thought to himself. "What else?"
Steve hesitated then said reluctantly, "I may be under a little stress."
"You're the king of understatements," Chin murmured.
Steve glared at him. "It's nothing I can't handle."
Chin leaned forward. "From where I'm sitting," he said quietly, "you aren't handling it at all."
Steve folded his arms across his chest. He looked away from Chin, giving him a good view of Steve's clenched jaw.
Chin sighed. "Look, I'm just worried about you."
"You don't need to be," Steve said tightly.
"Don't give me that," Chin responded, letting a little of the frustration he felt seep into his voice. Calm and cool was his forte, but there were times when he could not maintain either. It usually happened where family was concerned. "We're ohana."
Steve's gaze snapped back to him, eyes widening slightly. "Chin," he said and stopped. "I...think I needed to hear that," he continued more quietly, his face softening.
Chin laid a hand on his arm and nodded. It wasn't often that he invoked the language of their homeland. But, he mused, maybe he should start using it more often. If for nothing else then to remind Steve that there were people who cared about him. "Are you ready to talk about it now?"
"What's there to talk about?" Steve asked. "You already know what I know."
"I do," Chin confirmed with a nod. "Have you decided what you're going to do?"
"You already know the answer to that, too," Steve said.
Chin knew what Steve was going to do. There was no other recourse. But this wasn't about what Chin knew. It was about Steve talking so he said nothing.
Steve looked at him shrewdly as if he were the one with the telepathic ability. "I sent dad a transmission before I reported to the bridge. As soon as we're done on Xamphis, I'll return to Earth."
"Maybe you'll finally get the answers you've been looking for," Chin said quietly.
"Maybe," Steve allowed. "But I doubt it."
~.~.~
Kono stepped up onto the transporter pad next to the boxes of supplies. She looked at each member of her team. "Ready?"
"Ready, sir," the other two members of the landing party replied.
She gave a short nod and turned to the transporter chief. "Three to beam--"
"Wait!" The command rang out as the captain stepped into the room.
Chin was right behind him. He exchanged looks with Kono and gave a small, resigned shrug.
Inwardly, Kono deflated. For once, she'd like to go planetside without her captain. He had no business leaving the ship especially for something as mundane as delivering supplies. "Captain McGarrett, sir."
"Kono, I'm going with you," McGarrett announced unnecessarily as he stepped onto the transporter pad.
"Sir, there's no need," Kono protested. It was weak, but she had to try. It was her job as Security Chief to make sure the captain was protected. He was safer aboard ship than anywhere else.
Steve held up a hand."I'm going," he said evenly.
Chin shared another look with her.
I tried, cousin, she thought at him.
I know, he sent back, sounding weary. Don't worry about it. He's not going to change anytime soon.
"You two through?" Steve asked, slightly amused.
"Yes, Captain," Kono said quickly.
"Then let's beam down," McGarrett said, all business. "Chin, you have the con."
"Yes, sir," Chin said. Look after him, Kono.
Kono smiled and laid a hand on the stunner stowed in her hip holster. She had two more. One strapped to each thigh. She had other, non-military issue, weapons hidden about her person as well. She liked to be prepared and with McGarrett it was more of a necessity than a suggestion. I always do..
"Beam us down," McGarrett ordered.
A tingling sensation cascaded over her as the beam took hold. The first time she'd used a transporter it had taken her breath away. In a way it still did that, but it had more to do with the excitement of visiting a new planet, facing a new adventure.
Kono loved this part.
~.~.~
They materialized on the ground floor of a building. Despite all of the intel on a given mission, no one ever quite knew what to expect when beamed down to a planet. This mission was no different.
Steve was surprised to see so many people bustling back and forth, a few worker 'droids mingling with them.
The room was extremely large. More than half of it was occupied by a field hospital, but one corner had a food stand advertising hot food. Behind it were bins of fresh produce. The opposite corner held a small library.
The place was tidy. Every surface gleamed. Despite the bright lights of the hospital, the area was warm and comfortable. The warm-hued color scheme lent a tranquility to the infirmary and Steve was certain it aided in a patient's recovery. Whoever had decorated sure knew what they were doing. It was easy to overlook the scuffed and faded tile, the cracks running along the walls, and the metal and plastic pipes that crisscrossed under the rafters.
A man in blue coveralls was quickly making his way toward them. "Excuse me," he said somewhat breathlessly as he came up to them. "Are you from the Five-0?"
Steve nodded and stepped forward, sticking out his hand. "I'm Captain McGarrett of the Five-0." He gestured to Kono. "This is my Chief Security Officer, Lieutenant Kono Kalakaua." Then, with a nod at each of them, he introduced the ensigns in their party. "We're here to deliver the medical and food supplies requested. The Planetary Alliance would also like a report on how things are being run. So you'll be seeing some Alliance personnel from my ship doing inspections and conducting interviews."
"I'm Roger Benz. Part of a civilian non-profit here to offer aid to the Xamphians." He looked nervous. "Uh, er, we weren't expecting you until tomorrow."
Steve offered what he hoped was a reassuring smile. "We're early. I'm sure that won't be a problem." He couldn't quite keep the tone of command out of his voice.
Benz, looking even more nervous, cast a glance toward the hospital area. "I, uh, probably not."
Steve frowned at him. "Who's in charge here?"
"I'll take you to him," Benz offered hurriedly. "Follow me."
The man took off across the floor, leaving the supplies behind.
Steve went after him, knowing his team would follow. He was curious as to why Benz was so nervous.
When they reached the hospital proper, Benz held up a hand. "Just a minute. Only authorized personnel are allowed beyond this point," he said and quickly disappeared behind a curtain, nearly knocking over a medbot.
Steve crossed his arms and scowled at the fluttering curtain. He was not used to being ordered around by a civilian.
"Captain." Kono stepped up close to him. "I'm sure--" A loud voice from the other side of the curtain cut her off.
"What to you mean they're here, Benz? You're kidding me, right? Tomorrow is when they're supposed to be here and tomorrow is when I'll talk to them!"
Kono's eyes widened and she took a step forward.
Steve stared at her. He opened his mouth to speak, but apparently the man yelling at poor Benz wasn't through.
"An inspection? What are you talking about? They were just supposed to beam down the supplies and be off. How hard is that? Damn it! I don't have time for this!"
A slow grin spread across Kono's face. She grabbed the curtain and yanked it back, revealing the two men.
"Now just a freakin' minute," the man with Benz turned to glare at her. "You shouldn't--Kono?" he interrupted himself in surprise.
Steve's gaze narrowed on the man that was now staring at Kono. He was shorter than Steve, but compact and muscular. He had the most vivid blue eyes Steve had ever seen and right now they were twinkling.
"Danny!" Kono exclaimed happily as she wrapped her arms around him in a bear hug, lifting him off the ground.
Steve watched as...Danny...returned the hug with equal fervor, embracing Kono as if she was a long lost sister. "Kono Kalakaua! I can't believe you're here."
"It's good to see you, Danny!" Kono said, putting him down.
Danny looked from his feet now firmly on the floor back up to Kono. "Still like doing the heavy lifting, huh?"
"Aw, Danny," she said, laughing. "You aren't heavy."
"No, I guess not," Danny responded. "At least not to you."
"Not to me," Kono agreed.
Steve continued to study the pair. Pieces of their conversation flowed into place and Steve was beginning to get a clearer picture of what was going on. So Danny knew about Kono's exceptional strength. Which meant that he probably knew about her enhanced prosthetic limbs. That was interesting because as far as Steve knew not many people did.
"Danny," Kono was saying. "I'd like you to meet Captain Steve McGarrett. Captain, this is Doctor Daniel Williams."
The smile on Danny's face fell away as he studied McGarrett. Steve knew he was being assessed when deep blue eyes drifted over him from head to toe. If he had been a shy man, Steve would have blushed under the appreciative gaze. Instead, he shifted his feet further apart and puffed up his chest, watching as Danny's lips parted on a sigh.
Steve's pulse quickened.
"You're here early," the doctor said, voice a little rough as he repeated Benz' earlier words.
Steve cocked an eyebrow. "I am. I trust you can handle that."
Danny crossed his arms and the material of his green tunic stretched tight across his biceps.
Steve resisted the urge to reach out and touch. The compulsion surprised him. He had only been in Danny's presence for a few minutes, but he was drawn to the doctor in way he'd never been attracted to anyone else. It left him feeling confused, but strangely captivated as well.
"I can...handle it, sir," Danny said. "I suppose you want a tour?"
Steve wanted to spend more time with the man that so intrigued him. A tour was the perfect opportunity. "Yes, I'd like a tour of the place. As long as I'm not taking you away from work," he said pointedly.
Danny shrugged. "Nothing that won't keep."
Steve turned to Kono. "Coordinate with Benz. Get the supplies put away."
"Yes, sir," Kono said.
"Hey, Kono? Tell Chin I said hello," Danny said.
Kono nodded, her eyes going unfocused for a moment. "He says hi in return and hopes he'll get a chance to see you before we leave," Kono told him with a smile.
"Must get a little crazy working with those two," Danny said to Steve as they started walking. "All those silent conversations they have."
"You know Chin and Kono well?" Steve asked cautiously.
"We go way back," Danny said.
Steve wanted to know more, but Danny had gone silent so he decided to get back to the business at hand. "So tell me about this place."
"It's an old hospital," Danny answered. "Most of it is shut down. Ruined in the 'quakes that hit this planet about five years ago."
"According to the information provided by the Alliance your medical facility serves the entire population of Xamphis," Steve said.
"It doesn't sound as bad as all of that," Danny said. "Most of the people of Xamphis were killed in the 'quakes and the volcanic activity sparked by the quakes. The population is under five hundred. I have two doctors and three nurses on staff besides myself. And we have a slew of volunteers who have had medical training plus a few medbots. We manage."
Steve frowned. "Why don't the Xamphians relocate?"
"This is their home," Danny said simply. He stopped at a door and opened it, gesturing for Steve to step inside. "Now, come on."
Steve found himself in a brightly lit hospital room. "How many hospital rooms do you have?"
"About twenty in each wing. Forty altogether," Danny said, closing the door behind him. "But that's not why I brought you in here."
"It's not?" Steve asked in confusion. "Is there something here you want to show me?"
Danny shook his head. "I just thought it might be easier to do this here where there aren't any prying eyes."
"Prying eyes? Dr. Williams, what are you talking about?"
"Call me Danny." He patted the bed. "Why don't you take a seat."
A nasty suspicion entered Steve's mind. He crossed his arms defensively. "What's going on?"
"Relax," Danny soothed. "I just want to check you out."
Even though he knew Danny meant those words to be innocent, Steve shivered.
Danny's eyes narrowed on him. "Look, it won't take me but a few minutes to give you a quick examination."
"I don't need an examination, Doc," Steve protested.
Danny put his hands on his hips. "Quit the macho crap, Captain. I know something is wrong."
Steve stiffened. "I'm fine." There was no way Danny could know about his father. Unless...no, there was no evidence that Danny was a telepath and even if he was Steve was sure Danny wouldn't violate his privacy. His instincts told him he could trust Danny.
Yet another weird thing about this encounter.
"You don't look well, Captain," Danny said quietly, obviously trying a different approach.
"I'm...tired," Steve said. "That's all."
Danny let out a sigh. "You have a hard job. Stressful."
"Not news," Steve growled.
Danny held up his hand. "I'm just trying to help."
"I'm fine," Steve repeated. "We really should finish with the tour." He turned to go.
"Wait," Danny said, laying a hand on Steve's arm.
There was a tiny shock at the contact, followed by a warm tingling sensation.
Steve let out a breath, feeling a bit more relaxed. The worried feeling he'd been carrying around since he'd received his father's message seemed to lighten. He stared at Danny. "You're an empath," he said in wonder.
"What? No!" Danny protested.
"I know what I felt," Steve said. "It's okay, Danny, you don't have to lie about it."
"Why would I lie about that," Danny responded, but he looked shaken.
And Steve didn't blame him. True empaths were few and far between. Once discovered, they were often sent back to earth to Alliance headquarters where they would do the most good. They were treated well, but were guarded at all times. Their rights as Alliance citizens remained intact, but they had few freedoms. They were a commodity that needed to be protected. "I won't say anything."
"You won't say anything because it's not true," Danny snapped. He ran a hand through his blond hair and sighed. "Look, I'm slightly empathic. Like most doctors are. I can sense when something is wrong. That's it." He looked pleadingly at Steve. "You have to believe me, Captain. That's it."
Steve remained unconvinced, but he let it go for now. He wouldn't betray Danny's secret. He had no desire to see Danny whisked away where Steve would never see him again. "Let's just forget it, okay?"
Danny looked uncertain. But when Steve smiled at him, he managed a tiny smile back. "Okay," Danny said somewhat relieved. "But you probably need to get some sleep."
"Noted," Steve replied.
The door opened. "Oh, there you are, Dr. Williams," a nurse said.
"What is it, Nurse Bobrov?" Danny asked. "A patient?"
Nurse Bobrov shook her head. "It's Grace. She's looking for you."
Danny's face lit up. He looked suddenly much younger.
Steve could only stare at him.
"Come with me, Captain," Danny said. "You've got to meet Grace. You're gonna love her. Everyone loves her."
"Yeah?" Steve asked, following Danny back to the main room. He wondered if Grace was Danny's wife and was a bit jealous at the thought.
"Oh, yeah," Danny responded enthusiastically.
"Danno!" A little girl flew into Danny's arms.
Danny didn't miss a beat. He swung her off the floor as Grace wrapped her arms around his neck. "Captain McGarrett, this is Grace. Gracie, this is Captain McGarrett."
A feeling of relief swept over him and Steve didn't bother analyzing why. Instead, he held out his hand to the little girl and they shook. "It's nice to meet you, Grace."
"Do you have a ship?" Grace asked, looking at him wide-eyed. "Danno says captains have ships."
"I do," Steve confirmed, smiling. "It's called the Five-0."
"Is it here?" Grace asked eagerly.
"Well, no," Steve said. "It's up in space. If it's okay with your daddy, maybe you can come up and see it."
"He's not my daddy," Grace said solemnly. Then she cupped Danny's cheeks and declared, "he's my Danno." She kissed him on the forehead.
"Oh," Steve responded, nonplussed. He looked at Danny.
"Hey, Monkey, why don't you go wait in my office? I need to finish talking to Captain McGarrett and then we can go have lunch. Okay?" Danny asked, setting her down.
"Okay," she said. She turned to Steve. "Can I really see your ship?" she asked shyly.
Steve nodded. "If it's okay with your Danno."
"We'll talk about it later, Monkey," Danny promised. "Now scoot."
They watched her as she skipped away, singing a tune Steve didn't know.
"Grace's parents were killed in the big quake," Danny said quietly. "She was hurt pretty bad when she got to me. I took care of her and she got better."
"How old was she when they died?" Steve said just as quietly.
"Three," Danny answered.
"You're like a dad to her," Steve murmured.
"Yes, and she's like a daughter to me," Danny said. "But she still remembers something about her parents and I didn't want to take that away from her."
"So now she has a Danno, too," Steve concluded. "That's cute."
Danny frowned at him. "It is what it is."
Steve shrugged. "Yeah, cute."
Danny scowled. "No, not cute."
"Okay. Sweet, then," Steve said, smirking.
Danny scowled even harder. "Shut up," he muttered.
"Hey, I'm a captain and you should address me properly," Steve said sternly, but he was openly grinning.
"Fine," Danny said with a put upon sigh. "Shut up...sir."
"That's better," Steve said with a chuckle.
Danny just rolled his eyes at him.
~.~.~
"So can we, Danno?" Grace asked.
"Hmmm?" Danny asked distractedly.
Steve McGarrett had surprised him. When Danny had heard the Five-0 had arrived earlier than expected, he had been ready to rip into the captain, commanding officer or not. But one look at Steve in that tight, black uniform had shut him up pretty quick. The tall captain with the stubble along his squared jaw had Danny's heart skipping a beat. So much so that he hadn't been able to stop staring. And that's when he'd noticed that McGarrett looked tired. It was more than doctor's intuition that had him hustling McGarrett into an empty hospital room. Danny had wanted to take care of him.
Still did.
Danny looked down at his right hand, rubbing his thumb along the pads of his fingers. That had been another surprise. The warm tickle that he'd felt when he touched McGarrett had thrown him for a loop. He'd never had that sensation before and he didn't know what it meant. It scared him.
He couldn't be developing latent empathic abilities, could he? It was something he didn't want to think about.
"Danno?" Grace's voice intruded on his thoughts. "Can we?"
Danny gave himself a little shake and focused on the little girl sitting across from him. "Can we, what?"
"Can we go up to the ship with Captain McGarrett?" Grace asked hopefully as she toyed with the little bit of food she still had on her plate.
Danny sighed. "I don't know, Monkey. It depends if it's okay with Captain McGarrett."
"He already said we could," Grace protested. "It just has to be okay with you. So is it okay, Danno? Please can we go?"
Danny smiled, knowing there was no way to deny her. He hoped that Steve wouldn't rescind his invitation. Danny highly doubted it. Steve didn't seem the type of person to not mean what he said. "Okay, Monkey."
"Yay!" Grace cheered.
Danny laughed, but stopped abruptly as the ground trembled.
"Danno?" Grace half-whispered, smile falling from her face.
Everything went still and Danny waited half a beat before letting out a breath. "It's okay, monkey," he reassured, stretching an arm across the table and taking her hand in his, giving it a squeeze.
Grace gripped his hand as she stared at him, eyes full of fear.
"It's okay," Danny said again, voice steady.
Grace started to slowly nod, releasing her tight hold of Danny's hand.
The ground rocked again, sending Grace's cup of milk toppling over, liquid spilling along the table and onto the floor. Plates and silverware rattled.
Grace stumbled out of her chair, knocking it over. She nearly tumbled to the floor, but she grabbed onto Danny, throwing her arms around his neck, and holding on tight.
Danny wrapped his arms around her, holding just as tight. "I got you," he murmured, getting to his feet and stumbling toward the doorway where he stopped and slid down to the floor. "It's okay, Grace."
The ground continued to shake, knocking things to the floor. Grace flinched and burrowed deeper into Danny's embrace with every resounding strike of an object against tile.
Danny curled himself around her, rubbing her back. "I've got you, Grace. It's okay," he continued his litany.
Grace mumbled something against his neck, but he couldn't make out the words.
Finally, the ground stilled. Everything going quiet.
Danny looked up cautiously.
Grace continued to mumble.
In the stillness, Danny could make out the words between her tiny sobs. "Please don't leave me. Please don't leave me. Please don't leave me."
Tears pricked at Danny's eyes and he rubbed his cheek against her hair. "Not going anywhere, Monkey. I'm right here. Right here."
He rocked her gently, soothing her until she fell asleep. Even then he didn't rise and take her to her own bed.
Danny held her and wondered why the tremors were back.
~.~.~
"So what do you want to know?" Chin asked, leaning back in his chair.
Steve looked startled and put down his coffee cup. "What makes you think I want to know anything?"
"Really, Steve," Kono said as she sat down across from him. "We don't have to be mind readers to know you want information."
"You're right," Steve said. "I do want information. I wouldn't be a good captain if I didn't know all the facts."
"Facts?" teased Kono. "There aren't any facts. You're just curious about Danny."
"I just want to know who I'm dealing with," Steve said defensively.
Chin's lips curled into a knowing smile. "Of course you do."
Steve frowned at him. "Chin," he warned.
"Dr. Daniel Williams. Rank: Lieutenant Commander," Chin interjected smoothly.
"I got that from his file," Steve muttered darkly. "I want to know more about him." He turned to Kono. "How exactly do you know him?"
Kono lifted a brow. "You mean you haven't guessed?"
Steve drummed his fingers on the table and waited for the response he wanted.
"Okay," Kono said, turning serious. "You remember me telling you about the Battle of Mionga?"
Steve nodded, brow furrowing. "Yes, I remember. You were hurt pretty badly."
"Her arms were totally mangled," Chin said quietly. "The doctors were going to have to amputate them."
"They were going to outfit me with prosthetics," Kono continued.
"But they're more than prosthetics," Steve said, remembering some of their former missions in which Kono's exceptional strength had saved the day.
"Danny's area of research is bionics," Chin responded. He reached out and grasped Kono's wrist, turning her hand palm up, and touching her fingertips. "Danny was the one who did the surgery."
Kono held out her arms. "He designed these babies."
Steve nodded, somewhat impressed. He wondered what else the man could do and he was looking forward to finding out.
"Danny's a good guy," Chin said then added with a laugh. "Although he can rant with the best of them."
Steve gave him a wry smile. "I noticed."
"Hard not to, Captain," Kono said with a smirk. "Better be careful. He'll talk circles around you."
"I think I can hold my own," Steve said with a drawl. Competition was good for the soul and who knew what the prize might be. The thought filled him with anticipation.
Kono and Chin exchanged looks with each other, holding their gaze for a long moment.
"Okay, enough of that. What are you two saying to each other?" Steve asked suspiciously.
"Nothing," Kono said with a little grin.
"Right," Steve said, not believing her for a moment.
Chin looked over at him, an amused twinkle in his eyes. "Just curious to see how things are going to turn out."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Steve asked. Maybe he was a blushing man after all because he could feel the heat in his cheeks. Damn his friends for knowing him so well.
"Nothing," Kono said again, waggling her eyebrows. "Nothing at all."
Chin leaned forward, elbow on the table. "Don't worry," he said sagely. "We'll be rooting for you."
"Rooting for you both," Kono corrected.
Steve opened his mouth to argue, but he could think of nothing to refute their words. Especially when he was rooting for them too. He really wanted to get to know Danny Williams.
Captain McGarrett. Lieutenant Murdoch here.
Steve touched the badge at his chest and answered his science officer's hail. "Yes, Lieutenant."
Please check the nearest station. There's something you need to see.
Steve looked at Chin and Kono. Then he toggled the switch on the computer table in front of him. Immediately, information appeared on the screen.
"There seems to have been seismic activity down on the planet," Chin reported as he scanned the information.
Steve stood up abruptly. "I'm beaming down."
"Captain--" Kono started.
Steve waved her off, striding quickly out of the room. He was anxious to get down to the planet. He needed to see for himself that everything was okay. That Danny was okay.
~.~.~
"You're going to be fine, Aga," Danny said, offering a smile to the patient sitting on the gurney in front of him.
"Thank you, Dr. Williams," Aga returned.
"You go home and get some rest," Danny said.
The Xamphian nodded, getting off the gurney. "Let us hope we have no more tremors."
Danny nodded, agreeing fervently with that statement. He hated seeing Grace so frightened. She still wasn't over the scare the tremors had provoked. Even now she was sitting right outside the curtain that blocked Danny and his patient from view. "Grace?" he called. "You still there?"
"Right here, Danno," Grace called back. "I can still see your feet."
Danny grinned. "That's good, Monkey! I just have one more patient to see and I'll be done."
"Okay, Danno."
"Take care of yourself, Aga," Danny said, returning his attention to his patient.
"Be well, Dr. Williams."
~.~.~
The first thing Steve saw when he beamed down was Grace sitting on the floor in front of an examination room. She was leaning forward, ear practically to the ground. Steve frowned and hurried over to her. "Grace?"
Grace's head popped up. "Captain McGarrett!"
"What are you doing?" Steve asked, kneeling next to her.
Grace pointed under the curtain. "See?"
Steve bent down to get a closer look. "I see boots."
"Danno's," Grace said, nodding solemnly.
"So why are we looking at Danno's boots?" Steve asked curiously.
"I gotta make sure Danno's okay," Grace said earnestly. "I don't want him to go anywhere."
She went quiet and Steve really looked at her. She had crossed her arms as if to ward off a chill, her little body stiff with tension. Eyes slightly watery with fear.
Something in Steve's gut tightened. This little girl had lost her parents and now she was afraid of losing Danny. He laid a gentle hand on Grace's shoulder. "I don't think your Danno is going to go anywhere."
"I just don't want anything to happen to him," Grace said in a small voice.
"I don't either," Steve responded, knowing he meant it. He looked under the curtain. "His boots are still there, Gracie."
"Captain Steve?" Grace asked, catching Steve in surprise. "Will you make sure nothing happens to my Danno?"
Steve didn't want to make promises he couldn't keep. The Five-0 was to leave the planet in a few days and the likelihood of seeing Danny again after the mission was almost non-existent. The very thought of that left Steve feeling cold. And seeing the pleading look on Grace's face made it hard to deny her anything especially this one request. He thought he could get used to watching over Danny all too easily. So he threw caution to the winds and said, "I'll do my best, Gracie."
How things would pan out he didn't know, but he didn't want to turn out to be a liar.
The curtain rattled and was pushed aside. Danny stared at them, looking amused. "What's going here? You two look like you're planning something. And somehow that makes me nervous."
"It's okay, Danno," Grace said, standing up. "Captain Steve and I just had a few things to talk about."
"You did?" Danny asked, lifting an eyebrow in Steve's direction.
Steve shrugged. "Nothing for you to worry about, Danno."
Danny snorted. "Nothing to worry about...right. Not reassuring, McGarrett. Also, Grace is the only one who can call me Danno."
"He can call you Danno if he wants to," Grace said. "I don't mind."
A slow grin spread across Steve's face. "Hear that, Danno? Grace doesn't mind."
Danny frowned at him, but Steve could see the corners of his mouth twitching. "I'm going to have to put up with the two of you, aren't I?" he said, shaking his head.
Steve looked at Grace who was looking much happier than she had been when he'd first arrived. She was standing close to Danny as if she couldn't bear to be too far away from him, but she no longer looked afraid. And Steve was glad.
"You're stuck with us, Danno," Grace said.
The words startled Steve and he shifted his gaze to Danny.
"I am?" Danny asked, eyes never leaving Steve's face.
Steve licked his lips. "Yeah," he murmured huskily.
The room seemed to shrink to the two of them. All the sounds fading away. Steve had the thought that he could hear Danny's heart beat in time with his own. It was a fanciful notion, but as they continued to gaze at each other, Steve wanted it to be true. The idea of being in sync with Danny took his breath away.
"I...uh..." Danny appeared lost for words.
"Will you have dinner with me tonight?" Steve blurted.
Danny blinked at him.
"Can we, Danno?" Grace asked excitedly.
Danny looked down at her. "I don't know, Grace."
"The both of you would be welcome," Steve inserted. "Please?"
"He said please," Grace said.
"That he did," Danny agreed. "Okay, Steve. We'd love to have dinner with you."
"Up on the ship?" Steve asked hopefully.
Grace squealed.
Danny chuckled. "Up on the ship."
~.~.~
They materialized on the transporter pad and Danny gave himself a little shake. It was pure imagination, but he liked to make sure that all of his molecules were back in place.
"Danny!" Chin called, sweeping him into a hug.
"Hey, Chin," Danny said, clapping the man on the back.
"Hey, brah," Kono greeted, getting her own hug.
"Danny gets a hug, but I don't?" Steve asked with a pout.
Kono and Chin exchanged knowing looks.
"Right, Captain. Is that a new crew policy?" Kono asked cheekily.
"You got me there, Kono," Steve said, laughing.
Kono and Chin exchanged another meaningful look.
Danny wondered about that, but as he looked at Steve, saw the way he was smiling, saw that he looked at ease, Danny realized that it no longer appeared as if Steve had the weight of the universe on his shoulders. Yesterday he'd looked tense and exhausted. Had that been only yesterday? Danny shook his head.
"Danno?" Grace tugged at his hand.
"Kono, Chin," Danny said. "I'd like you to meet Grace. My little girl."
"Hi," Kono said, holding out her hand.
Grace took it and the two of them shook. "Danno says you're really strong."
"I am," Kono said, nodding.
"Bet you can't carry me," Grace said with a sparkle in her eye.
"That so," Kono said. "Bet I can."
Grace held up her arms.
Kono lifted her onto her shoulders and marched out of the transporter room. Grace's giggle floated back to them as they disappeared from view.
Danny smiled, feeling some of his anxiety dissipate in the wake of his child's laughter. "Thank you for this, Steve. It was exactly what Grace needed."
"What do you mean, Danny?" Chin asked as the three of them fell into step, following Kono and Grace.
It was Steve who answered. "The tremors really scared her."
Danny looked at him in surprise. "How did you know that?"
"Any child would be afraid," Steve said, "but she wouldn't let you out of her sight. And after what happened to her parents, I don't blame her."
"Yeah, that's exactly it," Danny agreed. He stopped in the middle of the corridor and peered up at Steve, noting his hunched posture and somber expression. This was the Steve from yesterday. "You okay?" Danny asked, concerned.
Steve nodded tightly. "I just know what it's like," he said quietly, "to lose a parent. My mom died when I was young."
"I'm sorry to hear that, Steve." Danny laid a hand on Steve's arm, squeezing gently.
Steve shuddered, eyes closing briefly.
Danny let out a gasp. The tingling sensation he'd thought was a fluke was still there. Stronger this time. He wanted to pull away, wanted it to stop, but a look of peace was settling over Steve's face.
"Danny," Steve murmured.
Danny skated his hand up Steve's arm, feeling warmth spread along his fingertips and he had to bite his lip to stifle another gasp. Whatever was happening to him, to them, gave him such an extraordinary feeling. It was like all the empty places in his heart had been filled. He didn't know if he could live without this feeling and when Steve left, well, Danny wasn't sure what he was going to do.
"Hey." There was a hand on his shoulder. "Hey!"
Danny looked over at Chin who was staring at him with an unusual expression on his face.
"What...exactly...is happening here?" Chin asked, brow wrinkling.
Danny snatched his hand away, and tried to ignore the moan of disappointment coming from Steve. But he couldn't quite help throwing a quick glance his way. Steve looked slightly dazed, but then he straightened.
"It's nothing," Steve said.
Chin crossed his arms over his chest. "Didn't look like 'nothing' to me."
"We're not talking about this, Chin," Steve said in a hard voice.
"Whatever you're thinking, Steve," Chin said softly. "There's nothing wrong."
Steve frowned at him in confusion.
"Whenever you're ready to talk...either of you...."
"There's nothing to talk about," Danny said quickly. And there wasn't. You couldn't talk about something you couldn't explain even to yourself.
Chin nodded. He gestured down the corridor. "Perhaps we should try to catch up."
"Yeah, good idea," Danny said, relieved.
"Let's go, then," Steve said and resumed walking.
Danny and Chin followed.
~.~.~
"Dinner was really good," Danny said as he helped Steve clear the dishes from the table. "It's been so long since I've eaten ship food, I'd forgotten what it tasted like."
"Yeah, I guess you don't get much steak down on the planet," Steve said.
"No, not really. They have something similar, but....no." Danny wrinkled his nose.
Steve smiled. "Then I'm glad you agreed to have dinner with me."
"I don't think I had much of a choice," Danny said with a dim smile.
Steve wanted to ask what was wrong, but he really didn't need to. After what had happened in the corridor, Danny had gone quiet. He didn't appear to be frightened or angry. His demeanor was more contemplative. And Steve was alright with that. After all, he couldn't stop thinking about it either.
"Danny, what do you think is happening between us?" Steve dared to ask.
"I don't know," Danny answered, running a hand through his hair. "I can hardly explain it let alone tell you what it means."
"But...but it doesn't bother you, right?" Steve asked tentatively.
Danny looked at him. "No, it doesn't bother me." He went quiet and then confessed, "I like it."
"I do, too," Steve told him. He reached out and brushed his fingers along Danny's cheek. The tingle was expected, but this time it was different. The warmth was still there, but the tiny shocks weren't. It was more like the fluttering of rose petals against his skin.
Danny sighed, nestling his cheek against the palm of Steve's hand. "Feels good," he murmured.
Steve stepped closer to him. All of a sudden he had the strongest desire to feel all of Danny pressed against him, skin to skin.
"Look, Danno!" Grace called from the other room. "You gotta see!"
Steve pulled away reluctantly. He couldn't believe he'd forgotten that Grace was with them.
Danny looked wistful, but gave him a smile. "Come on. Let's see what she's discovered."
Steve followed Danny. When they reached Grace, she was staring out the observation window.
Grace glanced over her shoulder at them. "Look, that's our home, Danno."
"It sure is, Grace," Danny said, subdued.
A slow ache was building in Steve's chest as he glanced at the orange planet below them. What Grace said was true. Xamphis was Danny's home, her home. But it felt wrong to Steve. Their home should be with him. He just wasn't sure if it would work out that way.
Danny shifted closer to him and Steve cautiously slipped an arm around his waist, embracing the warmth that surrounded him.
With a soft sigh, Danny relaxed against him.
As they stood looking at the stars, Grace's soft voice flowing over them, Steve placed a gentle kiss to Danny's temple.
And saw stars of a different kind.
~.~.~
Steve was helping Danny sort out supplies. The silence between them was comfortable. Highly aware of each other, they orbited around one another, enjoying their close proximity.
Something, though, had been weighing on Steve's mind and he decided to speak. "Danny, you ever think about leaving Xamphis?"
Danny put down the roll of bandages he was holding. "Yeah, every now and then. I could get new orders."
"True," Steve said. "You've been here awhile. You should have transferred out a long time ago."
"I kept asking to extend. I guess no one's really cared."
Steve frowned. "According to Chin and Kono, you're at the top of your field. You should probably be in one of the Alliance's specialized medical facilities or on the flagship of the fleet. Instead you're here."
"Nothing wrong with here," Danny snapped.
Steve held up a hand. "Hey, sorry. Not what I meant."
Danny's tone softened. "I know. I just...look, I'm really not sure what's wrong with me today."
"Does it have anything to do with last night?" Steve asked, afraid of the answer. He'd thought they'd had a good time, but Danny had had time to think about it. Maybe he wasn't happy with the way things were going between them. It hurt Steve to think that might be true.
"No, not really," Danny replied after a long pause.
Steve tensed. "Not really?"
Danny sighed and looked away. "I just met you a couple of days ago, Steve, and...." He rubbed the back of his neck.
"And?" Steve pressed.
"Feels like I've known you forever," Danny shrugged. "Sorry if that sounds stupid."
Steve took a step closer to him. "It's not stupid," he said. "I feel the same way."
"You do?" Danny asked hesitantly.
"You must have realized it," Steve said.
Danny gave a slow nod. "Yeah, I guess I did. I just don't know what to make of it. It's like we made an instant connection. That's never happened to me before. Not even with my ex-wife."
"You have an ex-wife?" Steve asked in surprise.
Danny rolled his eyes. "Can we please focus here, Steven?"
Steve filed the information away for another time. "If it makes you feel any better, it's never happened to me before either. But I do know it's not something we should ignore."
"I don't want to ignore it," Danny responded quickly. "But what are we going to do about it?"
"I--" Steve started to say, but was interrupted by a tiny beep from his communicator badge.
Chin to Captain McGarrett.
"McGarrett here. What have you got, Chin?"
You're needed back on ship, Captain.
"Okay, I'll be there in a few minutes."
Captain...Steve, you're going to want to see this. Trust me. There isn't any time to waste.
Steve frowned, noting the urgency in his first officer's voice. Something was wrong.
"Whatever it is, it doesn't sound too good," Danny said. "You should go. We'll talk later."
Steve saw the understanding in his eyes. Even so, he was loathed to leave Danny. So much was being left unsaid and Steve had a feeling his whole life hung on this one important conversation that they weren't going to be allowed to finish. At least right now anyway. "I'll hold you to that." Then to Chin. "Ready to beam aboard."
The last thing he saw as he dissolved was Danny's beautiful face and the sad smile gracing it.
~.~.~
In his ready room, Steve sat, stunned. The incoming missive Chin had deemed important had just finished and Steve just couldn't believe it.
Chin, hip propped against the table, leaned toward him and put a hand to his shoulder. "Steve? You with me?"
Steve opened his mouth, throat working, but no words emerged.
"Take your time," Chin said quietly. "We'll talk about it when you're ready."
Steve dropped his head, hands clenched tight around the arms of his chair. There were so many things that needed to be done, but he felt impotent with fear. His mind was racing in a thousand different directions, but his body refused to move.
"We need to go," Steve finally gritted out. "I need to find my dad."
Chin nodded. "Yes. At high warp, we can be back on Earth in a few days," he paused. "What about the mission?"
Steve closed his eyes. Danny. "We're done. Supplies have been delivered. Reports have been made. There's no need to stay any longer." Danny!.
"Are you sure there's nothing else that needs to be taken care of?" Chin asked carefully.
Steve slowly opened his eyes, feeling bleak. "There's something I have to do. We'll be ready to leave at 0700 hours tomorrow morning. That should give you plenty of time to prep the ship for departure."
"Aye, sir," Chin acknowledged and stood up.
"Chin?" The desperate fear in his own voice scared him. "How could this happen? How could my father have just...disappeared?"
"I don't know, Steve," Chin answered quietly, "but we'll figure it out. We'll find him."
Steve wanted to believe him. He and his father had already spent so much of their lives apart.
"Take care of your business, Steve," Chin said gently.
"Right," Steve managed.
He had to return to the planet, but there was something he needed first.
*****
Part II