New Fic - The Captain's Niece
Title: The Captain’s Niece
Author: L.E McMurray
Rating: PG-13
Summary: When he saves Kate's life Nathan doesn't realise that she will become a permanent part of his, so much so that on joining the Seaquest he brings her with him. Now he has to command the world's greatest undersea research ship, with the best crew that can get in trouble at the drop of a hat and his 'niece' who has a past he's just waiting to catch up with them.
Disclaimer: I own nothing, unfortunately.
Author’s Notes: - Not betad at the moment.
If you haven’t read the Kate Khronicles then this will give away the twist so you might want to read that first.
This is an AU of both Season One and Two including the additional character of Kate - who is the same Kate. This is going to go through Season One and Two; it will be a mixture of stories long and short connected to the episodes as well as a few interludes to connect things.
Hopefully you haven’t given up and flicked back so enjoy.
*********************************************
Nathan could hear Darwin calling urgently and began to run along the beach, he’d never heard the dolphin so alarmed. He saw a small dingy floating near the dock with Darwin gently nudging the boat so it stayed close to the dock.
“Oh my God,” Nathan breathed in horror as he saw the occupant of the dingy recognising her instantly, “Kate.”
Without a doubt hidden beneath the injuries was Kate King, a young woman he described anytime they met as a nightmare. She was a self-confessed thief and con artist who had somehow ingratiated herself so that he worried about her while he had become one of the two people in the world she truly trusted.
The last time he’d seen her had been at Robert’s memorial service and it was clear to see she’d managed to get herself in real trouble since that day. Fingers on both hands were twisted awkwardly, her right arm obviously broken and from the look of her left leg that could be also. Blood stained her face, matting her hair from a wound on her forehead, bruises covering her face and she was lying far too still.
“Kate,” he called to her.
A small groan escaped her lips as her eyes fluttered open. She stared at him, relief filling her brown eyes.
“It’s okay,” he soothed, “You’re safe. I have to move you out of the boat. This will hurt but I have to do it.”
She nodded before screaming when he transferred her onto the dock. He checked her trying to catalogue the extent of Kate’s injuries as best he could.
“Kate,” Nathan said, “I’m going to call for some help. I’ll be right back but I have to get you to a hospital.”
He saw fear fill her eyes but Nathan gently stroked her cheek, “I won’t leave you, kid. Trust me.”
“Are you ever going to tell me what happened?”
Kate dropped her eyes as Nathan placed lunch beside her, “I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Do you want to go over the list of your injuries?” he challenged, “This wasn’t a job gone wrong, this was personal.”
She continued to stare down at her lap.
Nathan sat at her side, he was pushing but doing his best not to push her too much as he knew what that would do. The doctors had warned him about PTSD and to be honest Nathan knew this just added to what had happened to her previously so he had to be extremely careful.
“You have to talk to me,” Nathan said softly, “You can’t leave here for at least a few more months. Do you think you’ll win a battle of wills with me when you’re on painkillers?”
A slight smile curved her lips for a moment, “We could find out.”
“Let me help,” Nathan entreated with her, “It’s why you came to me in the first place and not Noyce because you want me to help you, not just a place to heal.”
Silence filled the room before Kate spoke, “Recently I heard that my mother had died. I may have hated the woman but she had a locket that belonged to my grandmother who I adored. I misjudged and my step-father caught me.”
“He did this to you?” anger filled Nathan’s voice, wishing she’d give him just a little more detail.
“Actually his goon squad did,” she shrugged, wincing at the motion, “Luckily I was able to use my escape plan. I set the sub to come here and I was really lucky I made it.”
“Who is he?”
Kate shook her head, “I’m not telling you. I don’t want you to tell Noyce who will go after him. I just want him to think I’m dead.”
“You will have to actually stop being Kate King,” Nathan noted, making her smile in relief, “What about Kate Foster?”
“That was your wife’s maiden name,” Kate looked at him in surprise, “You want me to be your niece?”
“I’m pretty sure you have contacts that can get all the paperwork we’d need. We can work on a cover story over the next few days,” Nathan noted, “It means you have to stay here until you’re completely healthy. Deal?”
“Deal,” she smiled after a few minutes, “I’d shake your hand but…” she nodded down to her broken fingers.
Nathan chuckled, “I’ll get that handshake at some point.”
*********************************************
Nathan watched as Kate swam with Darwin, something she’d only learned to do eight months ago.
He was surprised that two years had passed and she was still on the island. She’d made some noises about leaving after the first six months but as she was still healing Nathan had persuaded her to stay. Kate hadn’t said another word about it in over a year now.
She seemed to like being Kate Foster these days and to Nathan’s surprise he was enjoying her presence in his life as well.
After a while Kate had become bored sitting around recuperating and began helping him with his research, she’d also started taking a few online courses. Nathan had never really realised that she’d never had a formal education but now she had the chance Kate had dived into it. She already had a degree in engineering and was working towards her masters with incredible focus. He always known she was smart, he just hadn’t known how smart.
“Are we going to do any work today?” Nathan called, making her turn looking stunned she didn’t know he was there.
That was the other thing that meant Nathan knew she was not only staying here but she was completely comfortable around him. She wasn’t constantly on her guard anymore; he could sneak up on her.
“Sure,” she swam towards him, chuckling as Darwin slipped under her to pull her to shore.
Climbing out, she pulled on a pair of denim shorts before clipping her long brown hair back.
“What do you need?”
Kate had intended to leave once she’d recovered sufficiently. She’d intended to change her identity once more and head back to her normal life.
Turning to where Nathan was going over his latest data she sighed knowing she’d become far too comfortable. But knowing her mother was dead, the confrontation with her step-father and everything that had led to meant Kate needed the stability Nathan was providing.
Kate had never stayed in one place this long with the exception of when she was living on Darrow with Harkens who taught her everything she knew. Although at no point had that felt like home, the way the island had begun to.
It was beginning to occur to her she didn’t want her old life back.
Noise outside made Kate frown, she recognised a chopper when she heard one. Glancing out the window she grimaced, it was military and there was only one reason it would be here.
Kate hoped this wouldn’t take her new found home away from her.
Nathan came charging into the house annoyance written over his face as Kate sat at the breakfast bar waiting patiently.
“Go and talk to him,” he snapped before muttering under his breath about damn military mindset.
Kate left him to fume as she walked out to where the man who had started Nathan’s rant was staring out across the ocean. Even from the back she knew who it was and smiled as she walked towards him.
“It’s nice here,” Kate said, “Isn’t it?”
“Kate?” Noyce spun and stared at her stunned, “You’re here?”
She shrugged, smiling as he hugged her.
“My sources told me you were dead,” he squeezed her tightly in relief.
“Kate King is dead,” she confirmed, not moving from the hug, “I’m Kate Foster now.”
Noyce pulled back and looked at her questioningly, “Are you okay? The last information I had was the hospital report.”
“Nathan looked after me,” she whispered, smiling slightly.
“And you’re still here?” Noyce chuckled, “That must be a record for you.”
Kate frowned at him, “I’m staying, as long as he lets me.”
Noyce winced apologetically, “I may have just ruined that.”
“You don’t have to come,” Nathan told her as he pulled together a bag, “I’ll go, look at the boat and get Noyce off my back.”
“Then you’ll come home and pretend you didn’t see your dream come to life,” Kate finished sarcastically, “I’ll come. I haven’t been around other people for a while. I should get some practice in answering to Kate Foster.”
Nathan spun, “No cons.”
“I will behave,” Kate rolled her eyes, “I promise.”
Nathan smiled, “I’ll believe that when I see it.”
“Thanks, Nathan,” Kate let out an annoyed sigh, “Your faith in me is heart-warming.”
“Pack a bag,” Nathan told her, “Put something appropriate on as well.”
Kate rolled her eyes, “The shorts are appropriate for the beach. Don’t worry I’ll put on something to help me blend.”
Nathan shook his head before he added, “And no matter what Noyce promises, you’re on my side in this. Okay?”
Kate gave him a sweet smile, “Yes, Uncle Nathan.”
He stared at her before shaking his head, “I am going to regret letting you out.”
*********************************************
Nathan stared out the window as the harbour came into view; as much as he was trying to remain impassive in front of Noyce he was quite excited to see the Seaquest. He could hear Kate talking to Bill about her studies and what she’d been doing on the island; he turned to them and frowned slightly.
“Kate, remind me to get you a dictionary marked at the definition of the word appropriate,” Nathan said, nodding to the skin tight jeans she was wearing along with the low cut bright red crop-top.
“I’m going to a place filled with what I am assuming are fit military men,” she smirked at him, “And you think I’m not going to look good?”
“You promised…”
“I promised no cons,” she cut him off, “Not that I wouldn’t have fun. I decided Kate Foster is a flirt.”
“A flirt?” the two men asked in unison with identical worried expressions.
Kate grinned, “Don’t worry, they can look but not touch. Neither of you will have to play dad. I can look after myself, remember?”
Both men grimaced at the thought.
“You’re not helping,” Nathan heard Noyce tell the young woman when he turned back to look out the window.
He chuckled as Kate replied, “I’m not trying to.”
“Impressive,” Kate murmured as they entered the Seaquest.
Noyce grinned at her as he started giving statistics about the boat, which Kate would look up later if she needed it though didn’t think she would. She was aware of the looks she was getting from the crew as she followed the two men through the boat. Before they’d landed she’d fixed her hair up so that there was nothing hiding her assets.
Kate knew she was attractive; it was something she’d used to her advantage many times and she was going to use it now. Although she’d promised Nathan no cons on this trip she hadn’t promised not to enjoy herself or make some contacts, in case he did take up the post Noyce wanted him to leaving her to head back to her old life.
“If you don’t cover up, I’m going to lock you in a room,” Nathan murmured as they passed two seaman who walked into each other because they were too busy ogling her.
Kate rolled her eyes; she opened her bag and pulled out a checked shirt.
“Happy?” she demanded once she’d put it on.
“Ecstatic,” Nathan replied, he turned away but Kate caught the amused smile on his lips.
She followed them through the boat, gasping slightly as she saw the bridge. Turning to Nathan she saw joy covering his face.
“Nathan, I’m going to steal Kate for a while,” Noyce said.
They both chuckled at the absent nod Nathan gave before he moved deeper onto the bridge.
“I think he doesn’t mind,” Kate rolled her eyes, “Lead the way, Admiral.”
Noyce moved her off the bridge and towards an empty room. Kate found a seat and leaning back hit him with a piercing stare, “What do you want, Bill?”
“I want you to persuade Nathan to agree to come back,” he told her,
Kate shook her head, “No.”
“No?”
“I can’t,” Kate told him, “I have to be on his side this time.”
He stared at her, “Why?”
Kate let out a long sigh jumping up and pacing, “When Nathan found me I had three broken fingers across two hands, my right arm was broken, left ankle fractured, six cracked ribs, fractured eye socket and a very serious concussion. Not to mention the bruises and cuts that made my skin look more red and black than a draughts board. I am not helping you manipulate him.”
“Come on, Kate,” Noyce snapped, “This is for his own good.”
Kate stared at him, her head tilting slightly, “I know. But I can’t go against him on this.”
Noyce shook his head at her in bemusement, “Who the hell are you and what did you do with the real Kate?”
She suddenly dropped her eyes. Seeing her discomfort he gently touched her shoulder, she looked up at him and wrapping his arm around her shoulders Noyce hugged her.
“I’m sorry,” he whispered, “I didn’t mean that the way it came out.”
“It’s okay,” Kate pulled away, “You should do whatever you’re about to do to try and make him stick around. I won’t interfere but I won’t actively help either.”
“What the hell happened to her?” Bill demanded the moment he and Nathan were alone.
Nathan sighed, “Her past.”
“You know who she really is,” Bill accused, “Don’t you?”
From the day they’d met Kate they’d tried to work out her real identity but had never managed to get more than a few hints in all the years they’d known her.
“She gave me a few clues when she was recovering. It had to be the painkillers she was on,” Nathan told him, “I saw articles she was reading and her reaction to them. That confirmed it for me.”
“So?” Noyce demanded, “Who is she?”
“Sophie Kincaid.”
Noyce stared at him, “Are you sure?”
“After I worked it out I asked her,” Nathan told him, “She got angry and upset but admitted I was right.”
“And it wasn’t…”
Nathan shook his head, “Not a lie. Not this time.”
Noyce sighed as he realised why Kate was being so loyal to Nathan right now.
“That would make her…” Noyce trailed off as he thought about it a little more.
Nathan nodded, “A lot younger than she told us.”
Noyce frowned as he remembered their first meeting with the young woman and realised how young she had been then.
*********************************************
“Nathan, I do not need to be watched like I am a child,” Kate noted annoyed as he dragged her onto the bridge with him to check out the sub that was attacking some station.
“I want you where I know you’re safe,” he snapped.
“Again, Nathan,” she forced out through gritted teeth, “Not a child.”
He frowned at her, “Humour me. I might need you in this.” At her raised eyebrow he rolled his eyes, “I am perfectly aware of your skills, Kate. I may have to utilise them at some point.”
She smiled smugly at him, “Yes, sir.”
Shaking his head Nathan moved her through the bridge to one of the work stations, “Kate, meet Lt O’Neill. Lt, this is Kate Foster my niece. She will be sticking with you until this is over.”
Kate turned to the man sitting there taking in the glasses and serious expression, she gave him a beaming smile enjoying the slightly stunned look he was giving her. She’d tied the shirt around her waist earlier before Noyce decided to launch the ship with them on it.
Nathan cleared his throat making her turn to him again, his expression clearly stating cover up. At his silent order she pulled the shirt on again, this time buttoning it before she found a stool to perch beside her new friend.
Kate watched Ford as he seemed to lose it.
She could see Nathan was getting agitated and was waiting for him to just take over. She knew it was exactly what Bill Noyce wanted and she was beginning to worry that Nathan would do it.
It was selfish, she knew this but Kate had just found a home on the island with Nathan and she didn’t want to let it go. She was pulled out of her thoughts as Ford yelled.
“Sound collision.”
The klaxon filled the room and Kate gripped the side of the console she was sitting beside.
“Everybody hold tight,” Ford shouted.
Kate gave a soft cry of shock as O’Neill suddenly grabbed her round her waist, pulling her onto him just before the bridge rocked. Kate automatically turned and pressed her face against his shoulder holding on. She realised when everything became still again that he’d saved her. She would have been tossed off her perch had she stayed there and possibly injured.
“Thank you,” she said softly, “You can let me go now, unless you like me sitting in your lap?”
At this he blushed and he released her as though he’d been burned.
Kate smirked at him before turning her attention to the discussion raging on in the middle of the bridge. Then it happened, the moment Noyce had been waiting for when he’d dragged them away from the island.
“Blow open all the ballast tanks, fore and aft,” Nathan ordered, at the pause he grimaced before snapping, “Do it.”
He turned and caught her watching him, turning away before she could say anything.
“I asked you to stay with O’Neill,” Nathan reminded Kate when she met him as he headed to check the damage.
“I can make him uncomfortable later,” she waved that away; “You know this is what Noyce wants, for you to have to step up and be the Captain.”
“And?”
Kate sighed at his sharp demand, “Nathan, be careful. You might not want to hear this, especially from me but this is who you are. If you act like the captain then you’re going to become him and you won’t be able to leave.”
“I’m just trying to keep us alive,” Nathan told her.
Kate shook her head, “I’ve known you a long time and to be honest the guy on the island, he isn’t the real Nathan Bridger.” She tapped his chest, “This is.”
“Kate,” he growled before sighing, “Stick with O’Neill. And keep your eyes open. I don’t know this crew but I know you.”
“You couldn’t have stuck me with the cute one on the other side of the bridge?” she pouted.
“Go.”
*********************************************
Nathan stepped onto the bridge and saw Kate’s eyebrow rise at the fact he was wearing the Seaquest uniform.
“Do you have something to say?” he asked as she slid up beside him.
Kate looked back at him without any emotion, “Not a thing.”
“We’re going to bypass the systems the virus is affecting,” he told her, “Work with Hitchcock. You’re about to get some practical experience for your course.”
She gave him a wide eyed look, “I’m getting away from my babysitter?”
“Knock it off,” he snapped, “Kate, this is serious.”
“I have been paying attention,” she rolled her eyes at him.
Nathan squeezed her shoulder, “Kate…”
She smiled at him, “I’m fine, Nathan. You don’t have to worry about me anymore. I know you’re staying,” she cut him off when he began to protest, “You haven’t admitted it to yourself yet but I can see it in your eyes. You belong here.”
“I’m not abandoning you,” Nathan promised.
Kate shook her head, “You’re reminding me it’s time to move on. The way I always have to,” she smiled weakly at him, “I’ll be working with Hitchcock if you need me.”
“How do you know the Captain?”
Kate turned stunned as Hitchcock said something not work related but then again she’d last a whole hour when it was obvious she wanted to know, “He’s kind of my uncle.”
“Kind of?” Hitchcock frowned a little confused.
Kate chuckled at the look, “His wife was my mom’s sister.”
Hitchcock shrugged focussing back on the job, “Can you bypass this?”
“We’re about to find out,” Kate murmured.
It was amazing to actually put into practice everything she’d learned over the past few years. She knew it would be useful when she decided to leave the island, though in all honesty she expected she would have to listen to Nathan try to talk her out of leaving. She never expected he would be the one leaving.
“Foster,” Hitchcock called, pulling her back to reality, “I need you to finish this.”
Kate smiled slightly, “Sure.”
She could get used to this kind of work.
“Nathan?” Kate rejoined him on the bridge as they were about to have the final confrontation with the previous captain of the Seaquest.
He turned to her, “Stick with O’Neill. I want your ear on what’s going on.”
Kate smiled slightly, “You want the con artist to spot if she tries to pull a con?”
“Precisely,” he nodded before he caught her arm, “Stop trying to make him uncomfortable.”
Kate smirked, “I think my general shape makes him uncomfortable.”
“Go,” he waved her away.
Kate winked at him before she jogged over to the communications station. Nathan checked she wasn’t terrifying the poor man sitting there before he turned to Ford.
It was time to end this.
*********************************************
Kate sat in the room she’d been given waiting for them to reach their destination where she would say goodbye to Nathan and Kate Foster. She hadn’t decided who she was going to become next, it was a decision she was putting off because thinking about it depressed her too much. She didn’t want to say goodbye to either of them. Plus it had been really interesting working as part of the crew for the brief time.
A knock on the door interrupted her musing, “Come in.”
She smiled as Nathan walked in closing the door behind him and taking a seat beside her.
“You look good in the uniform,” Kate told him with a slight smile, “It suits you.”
“Thanks,” he chuckled, “I thought I’d let you know we’re about an hour from docking.”
“Good,” Kate took a deep breath, “I’m hoping you don’t mind me staying on the island for a few weeks? I have to think up a new alias and then getting everything established. It might take some time to find a place to set up.”
“Actually, I don’t want you staying on the island,” Nathan said.
Kate frowned at him trying hard not to let the hurt she felt at his words filter into her voice.
“Sure, I’ll find a hotel…”
“Kate,” Nathan cut her off, “That’s not what I meant. I don’t want you to stay on the island because I thought it would be a good idea for you to stay here.”
She stared at him in bemusement, “Are you serious?”
“Completely. You can finish your studies with practical experience,” he told her, “Plus you won’t have to be alone again.”
Kate dropped her eyes shrugging, “I’m fine alone.”
“You’re lying,” Nathan tilted his head to look at her, “Kate, like it or not we’re family now. And I am not letting you isolate yourself again.”
Tears filled her eyes, “Are you sure about this, Nathan?”
“Of course I am,” he slid his arm around her shoulders hugging her tightly.
Kate hugged him back for a few minutes before pulling back and smiling, “Are you sure you can persuade Bill?”
“Well, he has no choice,” Nathan grinned, “If he doesn’t agree then I don’t stay.”
“He’ll love that,” she chuckled.
“Then it’s settled. But I’m warning you now Kate King is long gone and you are Kate Foster with a completely clean record. Which stays clean,” Nathan offered her his hand, “Do we have a deal?”
“We have a deal,” she smiled, taking his hand.
Interlude 1
Author: L.E McMurray
Rating: PG-13
Summary: When he saves Kate's life Nathan doesn't realise that she will become a permanent part of his, so much so that on joining the Seaquest he brings her with him. Now he has to command the world's greatest undersea research ship, with the best crew that can get in trouble at the drop of a hat and his 'niece' who has a past he's just waiting to catch up with them.
Disclaimer: I own nothing, unfortunately.
Author’s Notes: - Not betad at the moment.
If you haven’t read the Kate Khronicles then this will give away the twist so you might want to read that first.
This is an AU of both Season One and Two including the additional character of Kate - who is the same Kate. This is going to go through Season One and Two; it will be a mixture of stories long and short connected to the episodes as well as a few interludes to connect things.
Hopefully you haven’t given up and flicked back so enjoy.
*********************************************
Nathan could hear Darwin calling urgently and began to run along the beach, he’d never heard the dolphin so alarmed. He saw a small dingy floating near the dock with Darwin gently nudging the boat so it stayed close to the dock.
“Oh my God,” Nathan breathed in horror as he saw the occupant of the dingy recognising her instantly, “Kate.”
Without a doubt hidden beneath the injuries was Kate King, a young woman he described anytime they met as a nightmare. She was a self-confessed thief and con artist who had somehow ingratiated herself so that he worried about her while he had become one of the two people in the world she truly trusted.
The last time he’d seen her had been at Robert’s memorial service and it was clear to see she’d managed to get herself in real trouble since that day. Fingers on both hands were twisted awkwardly, her right arm obviously broken and from the look of her left leg that could be also. Blood stained her face, matting her hair from a wound on her forehead, bruises covering her face and she was lying far too still.
“Kate,” he called to her.
A small groan escaped her lips as her eyes fluttered open. She stared at him, relief filling her brown eyes.
“It’s okay,” he soothed, “You’re safe. I have to move you out of the boat. This will hurt but I have to do it.”
She nodded before screaming when he transferred her onto the dock. He checked her trying to catalogue the extent of Kate’s injuries as best he could.
“Kate,” Nathan said, “I’m going to call for some help. I’ll be right back but I have to get you to a hospital.”
He saw fear fill her eyes but Nathan gently stroked her cheek, “I won’t leave you, kid. Trust me.”
“Are you ever going to tell me what happened?”
Kate dropped her eyes as Nathan placed lunch beside her, “I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Do you want to go over the list of your injuries?” he challenged, “This wasn’t a job gone wrong, this was personal.”
She continued to stare down at her lap.
Nathan sat at her side, he was pushing but doing his best not to push her too much as he knew what that would do. The doctors had warned him about PTSD and to be honest Nathan knew this just added to what had happened to her previously so he had to be extremely careful.
“You have to talk to me,” Nathan said softly, “You can’t leave here for at least a few more months. Do you think you’ll win a battle of wills with me when you’re on painkillers?”
A slight smile curved her lips for a moment, “We could find out.”
“Let me help,” Nathan entreated with her, “It’s why you came to me in the first place and not Noyce because you want me to help you, not just a place to heal.”
Silence filled the room before Kate spoke, “Recently I heard that my mother had died. I may have hated the woman but she had a locket that belonged to my grandmother who I adored. I misjudged and my step-father caught me.”
“He did this to you?” anger filled Nathan’s voice, wishing she’d give him just a little more detail.
“Actually his goon squad did,” she shrugged, wincing at the motion, “Luckily I was able to use my escape plan. I set the sub to come here and I was really lucky I made it.”
“Who is he?”
Kate shook her head, “I’m not telling you. I don’t want you to tell Noyce who will go after him. I just want him to think I’m dead.”
“You will have to actually stop being Kate King,” Nathan noted, making her smile in relief, “What about Kate Foster?”
“That was your wife’s maiden name,” Kate looked at him in surprise, “You want me to be your niece?”
“I’m pretty sure you have contacts that can get all the paperwork we’d need. We can work on a cover story over the next few days,” Nathan noted, “It means you have to stay here until you’re completely healthy. Deal?”
“Deal,” she smiled after a few minutes, “I’d shake your hand but…” she nodded down to her broken fingers.
Nathan chuckled, “I’ll get that handshake at some point.”
*********************************************
Nathan watched as Kate swam with Darwin, something she’d only learned to do eight months ago.
He was surprised that two years had passed and she was still on the island. She’d made some noises about leaving after the first six months but as she was still healing Nathan had persuaded her to stay. Kate hadn’t said another word about it in over a year now.
She seemed to like being Kate Foster these days and to Nathan’s surprise he was enjoying her presence in his life as well.
After a while Kate had become bored sitting around recuperating and began helping him with his research, she’d also started taking a few online courses. Nathan had never really realised that she’d never had a formal education but now she had the chance Kate had dived into it. She already had a degree in engineering and was working towards her masters with incredible focus. He always known she was smart, he just hadn’t known how smart.
“Are we going to do any work today?” Nathan called, making her turn looking stunned she didn’t know he was there.
That was the other thing that meant Nathan knew she was not only staying here but she was completely comfortable around him. She wasn’t constantly on her guard anymore; he could sneak up on her.
“Sure,” she swam towards him, chuckling as Darwin slipped under her to pull her to shore.
Climbing out, she pulled on a pair of denim shorts before clipping her long brown hair back.
“What do you need?”
Kate had intended to leave once she’d recovered sufficiently. She’d intended to change her identity once more and head back to her normal life.
Turning to where Nathan was going over his latest data she sighed knowing she’d become far too comfortable. But knowing her mother was dead, the confrontation with her step-father and everything that had led to meant Kate needed the stability Nathan was providing.
Kate had never stayed in one place this long with the exception of when she was living on Darrow with Harkens who taught her everything she knew. Although at no point had that felt like home, the way the island had begun to.
It was beginning to occur to her she didn’t want her old life back.
Noise outside made Kate frown, she recognised a chopper when she heard one. Glancing out the window she grimaced, it was military and there was only one reason it would be here.
Kate hoped this wouldn’t take her new found home away from her.
Nathan came charging into the house annoyance written over his face as Kate sat at the breakfast bar waiting patiently.
“Go and talk to him,” he snapped before muttering under his breath about damn military mindset.
Kate left him to fume as she walked out to where the man who had started Nathan’s rant was staring out across the ocean. Even from the back she knew who it was and smiled as she walked towards him.
“It’s nice here,” Kate said, “Isn’t it?”
“Kate?” Noyce spun and stared at her stunned, “You’re here?”
She shrugged, smiling as he hugged her.
“My sources told me you were dead,” he squeezed her tightly in relief.
“Kate King is dead,” she confirmed, not moving from the hug, “I’m Kate Foster now.”
Noyce pulled back and looked at her questioningly, “Are you okay? The last information I had was the hospital report.”
“Nathan looked after me,” she whispered, smiling slightly.
“And you’re still here?” Noyce chuckled, “That must be a record for you.”
Kate frowned at him, “I’m staying, as long as he lets me.”
Noyce winced apologetically, “I may have just ruined that.”
“You don’t have to come,” Nathan told her as he pulled together a bag, “I’ll go, look at the boat and get Noyce off my back.”
“Then you’ll come home and pretend you didn’t see your dream come to life,” Kate finished sarcastically, “I’ll come. I haven’t been around other people for a while. I should get some practice in answering to Kate Foster.”
Nathan spun, “No cons.”
“I will behave,” Kate rolled her eyes, “I promise.”
Nathan smiled, “I’ll believe that when I see it.”
“Thanks, Nathan,” Kate let out an annoyed sigh, “Your faith in me is heart-warming.”
“Pack a bag,” Nathan told her, “Put something appropriate on as well.”
Kate rolled her eyes, “The shorts are appropriate for the beach. Don’t worry I’ll put on something to help me blend.”
Nathan shook his head before he added, “And no matter what Noyce promises, you’re on my side in this. Okay?”
Kate gave him a sweet smile, “Yes, Uncle Nathan.”
He stared at her before shaking his head, “I am going to regret letting you out.”
*********************************************
Nathan stared out the window as the harbour came into view; as much as he was trying to remain impassive in front of Noyce he was quite excited to see the Seaquest. He could hear Kate talking to Bill about her studies and what she’d been doing on the island; he turned to them and frowned slightly.
“Kate, remind me to get you a dictionary marked at the definition of the word appropriate,” Nathan said, nodding to the skin tight jeans she was wearing along with the low cut bright red crop-top.
“I’m going to a place filled with what I am assuming are fit military men,” she smirked at him, “And you think I’m not going to look good?”
“You promised…”
“I promised no cons,” she cut him off, “Not that I wouldn’t have fun. I decided Kate Foster is a flirt.”
“A flirt?” the two men asked in unison with identical worried expressions.
Kate grinned, “Don’t worry, they can look but not touch. Neither of you will have to play dad. I can look after myself, remember?”
Both men grimaced at the thought.
“You’re not helping,” Nathan heard Noyce tell the young woman when he turned back to look out the window.
He chuckled as Kate replied, “I’m not trying to.”
“Impressive,” Kate murmured as they entered the Seaquest.
Noyce grinned at her as he started giving statistics about the boat, which Kate would look up later if she needed it though didn’t think she would. She was aware of the looks she was getting from the crew as she followed the two men through the boat. Before they’d landed she’d fixed her hair up so that there was nothing hiding her assets.
Kate knew she was attractive; it was something she’d used to her advantage many times and she was going to use it now. Although she’d promised Nathan no cons on this trip she hadn’t promised not to enjoy herself or make some contacts, in case he did take up the post Noyce wanted him to leaving her to head back to her old life.
“If you don’t cover up, I’m going to lock you in a room,” Nathan murmured as they passed two seaman who walked into each other because they were too busy ogling her.
Kate rolled her eyes; she opened her bag and pulled out a checked shirt.
“Happy?” she demanded once she’d put it on.
“Ecstatic,” Nathan replied, he turned away but Kate caught the amused smile on his lips.
She followed them through the boat, gasping slightly as she saw the bridge. Turning to Nathan she saw joy covering his face.
“Nathan, I’m going to steal Kate for a while,” Noyce said.
They both chuckled at the absent nod Nathan gave before he moved deeper onto the bridge.
“I think he doesn’t mind,” Kate rolled her eyes, “Lead the way, Admiral.”
Noyce moved her off the bridge and towards an empty room. Kate found a seat and leaning back hit him with a piercing stare, “What do you want, Bill?”
“I want you to persuade Nathan to agree to come back,” he told her,
Kate shook her head, “No.”
“No?”
“I can’t,” Kate told him, “I have to be on his side this time.”
He stared at her, “Why?”
Kate let out a long sigh jumping up and pacing, “When Nathan found me I had three broken fingers across two hands, my right arm was broken, left ankle fractured, six cracked ribs, fractured eye socket and a very serious concussion. Not to mention the bruises and cuts that made my skin look more red and black than a draughts board. I am not helping you manipulate him.”
“Come on, Kate,” Noyce snapped, “This is for his own good.”
Kate stared at him, her head tilting slightly, “I know. But I can’t go against him on this.”
Noyce shook his head at her in bemusement, “Who the hell are you and what did you do with the real Kate?”
She suddenly dropped her eyes. Seeing her discomfort he gently touched her shoulder, she looked up at him and wrapping his arm around her shoulders Noyce hugged her.
“I’m sorry,” he whispered, “I didn’t mean that the way it came out.”
“It’s okay,” Kate pulled away, “You should do whatever you’re about to do to try and make him stick around. I won’t interfere but I won’t actively help either.”
“What the hell happened to her?” Bill demanded the moment he and Nathan were alone.
Nathan sighed, “Her past.”
“You know who she really is,” Bill accused, “Don’t you?”
From the day they’d met Kate they’d tried to work out her real identity but had never managed to get more than a few hints in all the years they’d known her.
“She gave me a few clues when she was recovering. It had to be the painkillers she was on,” Nathan told him, “I saw articles she was reading and her reaction to them. That confirmed it for me.”
“So?” Noyce demanded, “Who is she?”
“Sophie Kincaid.”
Noyce stared at him, “Are you sure?”
“After I worked it out I asked her,” Nathan told him, “She got angry and upset but admitted I was right.”
“And it wasn’t…”
Nathan shook his head, “Not a lie. Not this time.”
Noyce sighed as he realised why Kate was being so loyal to Nathan right now.
“That would make her…” Noyce trailed off as he thought about it a little more.
Nathan nodded, “A lot younger than she told us.”
Noyce frowned as he remembered their first meeting with the young woman and realised how young she had been then.
*********************************************
“Nathan, I do not need to be watched like I am a child,” Kate noted annoyed as he dragged her onto the bridge with him to check out the sub that was attacking some station.
“I want you where I know you’re safe,” he snapped.
“Again, Nathan,” she forced out through gritted teeth, “Not a child.”
He frowned at her, “Humour me. I might need you in this.” At her raised eyebrow he rolled his eyes, “I am perfectly aware of your skills, Kate. I may have to utilise them at some point.”
She smiled smugly at him, “Yes, sir.”
Shaking his head Nathan moved her through the bridge to one of the work stations, “Kate, meet Lt O’Neill. Lt, this is Kate Foster my niece. She will be sticking with you until this is over.”
Kate turned to the man sitting there taking in the glasses and serious expression, she gave him a beaming smile enjoying the slightly stunned look he was giving her. She’d tied the shirt around her waist earlier before Noyce decided to launch the ship with them on it.
Nathan cleared his throat making her turn to him again, his expression clearly stating cover up. At his silent order she pulled the shirt on again, this time buttoning it before she found a stool to perch beside her new friend.
Kate watched Ford as he seemed to lose it.
She could see Nathan was getting agitated and was waiting for him to just take over. She knew it was exactly what Bill Noyce wanted and she was beginning to worry that Nathan would do it.
It was selfish, she knew this but Kate had just found a home on the island with Nathan and she didn’t want to let it go. She was pulled out of her thoughts as Ford yelled.
“Sound collision.”
The klaxon filled the room and Kate gripped the side of the console she was sitting beside.
“Everybody hold tight,” Ford shouted.
Kate gave a soft cry of shock as O’Neill suddenly grabbed her round her waist, pulling her onto him just before the bridge rocked. Kate automatically turned and pressed her face against his shoulder holding on. She realised when everything became still again that he’d saved her. She would have been tossed off her perch had she stayed there and possibly injured.
“Thank you,” she said softly, “You can let me go now, unless you like me sitting in your lap?”
At this he blushed and he released her as though he’d been burned.
Kate smirked at him before turning her attention to the discussion raging on in the middle of the bridge. Then it happened, the moment Noyce had been waiting for when he’d dragged them away from the island.
“Blow open all the ballast tanks, fore and aft,” Nathan ordered, at the pause he grimaced before snapping, “Do it.”
He turned and caught her watching him, turning away before she could say anything.
“I asked you to stay with O’Neill,” Nathan reminded Kate when she met him as he headed to check the damage.
“I can make him uncomfortable later,” she waved that away; “You know this is what Noyce wants, for you to have to step up and be the Captain.”
“And?”
Kate sighed at his sharp demand, “Nathan, be careful. You might not want to hear this, especially from me but this is who you are. If you act like the captain then you’re going to become him and you won’t be able to leave.”
“I’m just trying to keep us alive,” Nathan told her.
Kate shook her head, “I’ve known you a long time and to be honest the guy on the island, he isn’t the real Nathan Bridger.” She tapped his chest, “This is.”
“Kate,” he growled before sighing, “Stick with O’Neill. And keep your eyes open. I don’t know this crew but I know you.”
“You couldn’t have stuck me with the cute one on the other side of the bridge?” she pouted.
“Go.”
*********************************************
Nathan stepped onto the bridge and saw Kate’s eyebrow rise at the fact he was wearing the Seaquest uniform.
“Do you have something to say?” he asked as she slid up beside him.
Kate looked back at him without any emotion, “Not a thing.”
“We’re going to bypass the systems the virus is affecting,” he told her, “Work with Hitchcock. You’re about to get some practical experience for your course.”
She gave him a wide eyed look, “I’m getting away from my babysitter?”
“Knock it off,” he snapped, “Kate, this is serious.”
“I have been paying attention,” she rolled her eyes at him.
Nathan squeezed her shoulder, “Kate…”
She smiled at him, “I’m fine, Nathan. You don’t have to worry about me anymore. I know you’re staying,” she cut him off when he began to protest, “You haven’t admitted it to yourself yet but I can see it in your eyes. You belong here.”
“I’m not abandoning you,” Nathan promised.
Kate shook her head, “You’re reminding me it’s time to move on. The way I always have to,” she smiled weakly at him, “I’ll be working with Hitchcock if you need me.”
“How do you know the Captain?”
Kate turned stunned as Hitchcock said something not work related but then again she’d last a whole hour when it was obvious she wanted to know, “He’s kind of my uncle.”
“Kind of?” Hitchcock frowned a little confused.
Kate chuckled at the look, “His wife was my mom’s sister.”
Hitchcock shrugged focussing back on the job, “Can you bypass this?”
“We’re about to find out,” Kate murmured.
It was amazing to actually put into practice everything she’d learned over the past few years. She knew it would be useful when she decided to leave the island, though in all honesty she expected she would have to listen to Nathan try to talk her out of leaving. She never expected he would be the one leaving.
“Foster,” Hitchcock called, pulling her back to reality, “I need you to finish this.”
Kate smiled slightly, “Sure.”
She could get used to this kind of work.
“Nathan?” Kate rejoined him on the bridge as they were about to have the final confrontation with the previous captain of the Seaquest.
He turned to her, “Stick with O’Neill. I want your ear on what’s going on.”
Kate smiled slightly, “You want the con artist to spot if she tries to pull a con?”
“Precisely,” he nodded before he caught her arm, “Stop trying to make him uncomfortable.”
Kate smirked, “I think my general shape makes him uncomfortable.”
“Go,” he waved her away.
Kate winked at him before she jogged over to the communications station. Nathan checked she wasn’t terrifying the poor man sitting there before he turned to Ford.
It was time to end this.
*********************************************
Kate sat in the room she’d been given waiting for them to reach their destination where she would say goodbye to Nathan and Kate Foster. She hadn’t decided who she was going to become next, it was a decision she was putting off because thinking about it depressed her too much. She didn’t want to say goodbye to either of them. Plus it had been really interesting working as part of the crew for the brief time.
A knock on the door interrupted her musing, “Come in.”
She smiled as Nathan walked in closing the door behind him and taking a seat beside her.
“You look good in the uniform,” Kate told him with a slight smile, “It suits you.”
“Thanks,” he chuckled, “I thought I’d let you know we’re about an hour from docking.”
“Good,” Kate took a deep breath, “I’m hoping you don’t mind me staying on the island for a few weeks? I have to think up a new alias and then getting everything established. It might take some time to find a place to set up.”
“Actually, I don’t want you staying on the island,” Nathan said.
Kate frowned at him trying hard not to let the hurt she felt at his words filter into her voice.
“Sure, I’ll find a hotel…”
“Kate,” Nathan cut her off, “That’s not what I meant. I don’t want you to stay on the island because I thought it would be a good idea for you to stay here.”
She stared at him in bemusement, “Are you serious?”
“Completely. You can finish your studies with practical experience,” he told her, “Plus you won’t have to be alone again.”
Kate dropped her eyes shrugging, “I’m fine alone.”
“You’re lying,” Nathan tilted his head to look at her, “Kate, like it or not we’re family now. And I am not letting you isolate yourself again.”
Tears filled her eyes, “Are you sure about this, Nathan?”
“Of course I am,” he slid his arm around her shoulders hugging her tightly.
Kate hugged him back for a few minutes before pulling back and smiling, “Are you sure you can persuade Bill?”
“Well, he has no choice,” Nathan grinned, “If he doesn’t agree then I don’t stay.”
“He’ll love that,” she chuckled.
“Then it’s settled. But I’m warning you now Kate King is long gone and you are Kate Foster with a completely clean record. Which stays clean,” Nathan offered her his hand, “Do we have a deal?”
“We have a deal,” she smiled, taking his hand.
Interlude 1