Disclaimer: CBS/Paramount owns everything. No infringement intended.

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“Damage report,” Kathryn ordered while the bright white flash of the exploding Binat warship faded on the viewscreen. She gripped her armrest as tightly as her injured ribs would allow as the blast shockwave battered into Voyager. She grimaced with pain as the ship rocked back and forth. She needed to go to Sickbay but just not yet.

“Shields are at forty percent. Aft phaser banks are offline. Photon torpedoes are functional,” stated Tuvok, calmly belying the fact that for the last ten minutes, Voyager’s crew had been fighting for their lives.

The Binat had been attacking and harassing Voyager for the last fifteen days. They’d hit Voyager, be destroyed like the latest enemy ship or withdraw, only to come back later. The captain had no idea how they’d survived some of the attacks. The crew were severely tested. The constant Yellow alert interrupted by yet another call to battle stations had been very draining. They’d repair the damage done, only for the next attack to damage the same components. Engineering staff had been working double shifts for over a week. Crew from other departments had been helping as well. The constant power fluctuations had affected Environmental control, increasing the temperature and humidity across the ship. All of this had added to their struggles, frustrations, and frayed nerves.

“Warp drive is down. Impulse engines are functional but maximum speed is one half impulse.” Harry checked his board. “Minor hull breaches on decks seven and fifteen. Damage control teams are responding. Transporters and Astrometric sensors are offline. Ten minor injuries reported so far.”

Kathryn loosened her death grip on her command chair. “Tom, get us back on course. Best speed.”

“Aye, Captain.” Tom wiped the sweat off his brow before laying in the course.

The captain tapped her combadge. “B’Elanna, warp drive?”

“Captain, the warp drive will be repaired in ten minutes. Phaser banks in another twenty minutes. Transporters in an hour.”

“Thank you, B’Elanna.” Kathryn was relieved, knowing the repairs would be completed soon. They’d come away from that skirmish relatively unscathed. “Chakotay, stand down Red Alert. Go to Yellow alert. When warp drive is back, go to warp six.”

“Yes, Captain.” Chakotay watched Kathryn ready herself to stand up. Sweat and pain etched her face as she grasped the armrests. He knew she’d hurt her ribs. The sharp cracking sound of bones breaking as she’d smashed into the upper Bridge railing after coming out of the turbolift just as the Binat had opened fire was something he wouldn’t forget in a while. How she able to get up afterwards, direct, and then win the battle beggared believe. The adrenaline of the battle would’ve numbed any pain she felt. However, Chakotay was in no doubt, after having his share of broken ribs, that when the battle was all over, the agony would be almost overwhelming. Her terse tone and clipped sentences were evidence of her struggle.

Chakotay was concerned but hid it well. They’d worked very hard to separate their private relationship with their professional one. So far, it had worked. Their work disagreements had stayed in the Ready room. Chakotay looked at her, conveying his support through his eyes with a nod.

Grateful, Kathryn smiled weakly at him then slowly stood up straight, refusing to be humbled by an injury in front of her crew. She whispered to Chakotay, “I’ll be in Sickbay.”

His place was on the Bridge. Although he knew that Kathryn didn’t like to appear weak in front of the crew, he was about to order Tom to escort her to Sickbay, but the Doctor beat him to it.

“Sickbay to the Bridge.”

“Go ahead, Doctor.” Kathryn stopped by Tuvok’s station, holding onto the console for support.

“I request Ensign Paris’ assistance in Sickbay.”

“Granted. He’ll be down ASAP.”

“Thank you, Captain.”

“Mr Paris, going my way?”

“Yes, ma’am.” Tom logged off the helm station and waited for his replacement to come down from the secondary navigation station before following his captain.

The walk up the few steps by the Tactical station nearly made Kathryn pass out. The sharp stabbing pains in her side brought tears to her eyes and she gave up trying to walk proudly like a captain. She held her ribs and walked gingerly to the turbolift. She was so focused on putting one foot in front of the other; she didn’t feel Tom put his arm around her to help her. After they got in the turbolift, Kathryn leant against Tom. She was unable to keep the pain within her any more and cried out, “Arrrgh …”

Tom ordered the lift to deck five. He kept quiet, but held on to her a bit tighter to help her stand up. His respect for her just kept growing and he would do anything for his captain. Tom was amazed at how quickly her razor sharp mind found again the right tactic to use against the Binat. He wouldn’t have had a clue what to do. When the lift stopped and the doors opened, Tom was astounded again at how quickly the captain reappeared, her pain masked once more, walking as tall as she could albeit aided by him toward Sickbay as if nothing was wrong.

~*~

“Computer, locate Captain Janeway.” Chakotay put the sandwich with the other food in the container.

“Captain Janeway is located in deck twelve, Jeffries tube 23-B, section 4, power relay junction C-5.”

Chakotay loaded the food container into his backpack and made his way to deck twelve. He nodded casually to the few crew he saw along the way. They knew that he was bringing food to the captain. She would forget to eat unless Chakotay or Neelix provided her meals to where ever she was working at the time. Being a fully qualified Chief Engineer in her own right, the captain was a resource that they couldn’t afford not to use in their current dire predicament. B’Elanna had to take some precautions though by organizing her to repair systems generally by herself and away from Engineering. The junior engineers and other crew were nervous because they rarely worked side by side with their captain. Seeing her covered in sweat and grime like them, underneath a console, wielding a hyper-scanner had them stammering and awestruck. Having the captain around them reduced their productivity considerably.

Chakotay opened the access hatch to the Jeffries tube and crawled through the small space. After a hundred metres, he turned left toward the power relay junctions. He saw Kathryn leaning against the wall of the tube, examining a junction relay circuit. Her face glowed with sweat, her uniform jacket lay on the floor, and he could see the sweat stains on her turtleneck. It was especially hot and humid in the enclosed spaces of the Jeffries tubes. She had a smudge of grime on her cheek and her hair was all messed up and definitely not captain-like but it didn’t detract from her beauty, at least not to him. Chakotay sighed and again thanked the Spirits that they were together. “Hello, Kathryn.”

“Hi.” Kathryn turned to him and smiled. She’d heard someone crawling toward her but she was glad it was her love. She hadn’t spoken to him since the previous night, when they’d crawled into his bed, exhausted and fallen asleep almost straight away. She’d woken a few hours later to start the repairs on the list that B’Elanna had sent through to her. Chakotay had been ‘minding the store’ doing both her job and his while she helped repair the ship and so after a soft kiss goodbye, she’d set the alarm for an extra hours sleep for him and then informed Tuvok to hold the fort for another hour or two allowing Chakotay to get some more rest.

Kathryn had lost track of time but she thought it must’ve been around lunchtime. She knew he was here to make her eat and on cue, her stomach growled. Realizing how hungry she was, she put the circuit down and leant against the wall of the Jeffries tube. “Anything happening upstairs?”

“No. Nothing on long range scans. Tuvok has the Bridge and B’Elanna says repairs are progressing well.” Chakotay pulled out a bottle of water from the backpack for her as well as a hand cleaner.

After cleaning up, Kathryn gratefully drank the water and watched as Chakotay opened the container of sandwiches.

“Do you know what day it is?” He rested against the tube wall next to her and allowed his leg to rub up against hers. They were on duty but so isolated from the crew that he didn’t think she would mind such a minor display of affection.

She took another drink from the water bottle as she thought about it. “Stardate?… No idea.”

“No. Standard Earth calendar date.”

Kathryn still had no idea. She barely knew what day of the week it was since the Binat attacks had started. Could she have missed an anniversary? She hoped not. Her brain was working on autopilot. Too many double shifts and too little sleep befuddled her brain. “No,” she answered sheepishly.

“Today is the 25th of December.” Chakotay pulled out a small beautifully wrapped box from his backpack and after a quick kiss on her cheek, he handed it to her. “Merry Christmas, Kathryn.”

Speechless, Kathryn had completely forgotten what month it was and consequently had absolutely no idea it was Christmas. For a few seconds, she stared at the box. It was wrapped in plain red tissue paper and tied with gold string that ended in a decorative bow. Attached to the box was a small card that had a simple hand drawn Christmas tree, coloured in green and brown with a few bits of brightly coloured tinsel and baubles decorating the tree. It was wonderful, she thought. She opened the card and read the words written in Chakotay’s flowing writing style. They were lovely just like the card. His gentle words of love and hope filled her heart with so much joy that tears welled in her eyes. She held his hand tightly. “This is very beautiful. Thank you, Chakotay. I love you.”

“It’s my pleasure, Kathryn. I love you, too.” Squeezing her hand tenderly, he smiled at her. “Open your present.”

Kathryn carefully undid the gold bow and removed the tissue paper. She opened the box to reveal a pendant on a thin leather cord. A small polished reddish brown flat stone that had his tattoo mark carved into it and it was exquisite. Barely breathing, she lifted the necklace out of the box. She stared at it for a few seconds, admiring its simple beauty. “Oh, Chakotay. It’s so beautiful. Thank you.”

Chakotay watched Kathryn as she opened the box. The wonderful look in her eyes as she held the necklace up made him happy.

Kathryn carefully put the pendant in his hand then cupped his face and gently kissed him. Her mouth lingered over his as she whispered that she loved him then kissed him tenderly again. She couldn’t find the words to say how much his present meant to her or how much he meant to her. “Chakotay, would you please put it on for me?”

He nodded and waited until she’d pivoted around, and then he put the thin leather strip around her neck and tied the two ends together. Kathryn picked up the stone, kissed it, and then slipped it inside her tank top. The stone rested in the valley between her breasts, close to her heart, exactly where it should be. It was further proof of his place in her heart.

Chakotay wrapped his arms her and held her close, breathing in her scent for a short time. His eyes closed and he rested his cheek on hers then listened to her breathing slow as she relaxed in his arms. There was no other place in the Universe where he’d rather be than right there, with her, holding her, and loving her.

He wished he could’ve held her for a while longer but duty called. “As much as I like holding you, I’m due back on the Bridge soon.” He released her and gently turned her around. “I came here to have lunch with you. So let’s eat. It’s not a proper sit down Christmas lunch with all the trimmings that you’ve said your family have had but I can offer you a turkey, lettuce, and cranberry sauce sandwich and some Christmas fruit cake for dessert.”

“This is just as wonderful, Chakotay. But one day, I hope soon, you and I will get to share that full on Christmas lunch with my family.” She laughed. “Although, I’m not sure what my mom will make of you when I tell her you won’t be eating her famous roast turkey.” Then there would be Phoebe’s interrogation of him. Poor Chakotay wouldn’t know what hit him, as Phoebe would grill him until he pleaded for mercy.

Chakotay marvelled at Kathryn’s resilience and optimism. She really believed that they’d get home and all the crew believed that under her they would as well. “I would like very much to share food with your family even if it means being under the microscope with your mother and your sister.”

Kathryn grinned then picked up a sandwich from the container and ate.

“Thank you again for a wonderful Christmas gift.” During their four years in the Delta Quadrant, the crew had only celebrated Christmas once. All the other times, it was as it was now, where they’d been under attack or recovering from an attack. While they ate, Kathryn laughed and talked about some of the silly traditions her family had on Christmas day. Chakotay thought it was great to see her smile and laugh again. The stress and fatigue washed away from her as she reminisced.

Chakotay packed up the container but left a full water bottle. “Kathryn, I’ve got to go. Remember to drink. It’s hot down here.”

“I promise.” Kathryn smiled. Sometimes he was such a mother hen but no matter how annoying it was, she knew it came from the heart.

Chakotay turned a few strands of hair around her ear then ran his hand over her hair. He pulled her toward him and after they tenderly kissed and exchanged ‘I love you’s, he left the Jeffries tube and headed back to the Bridge.

Two hours later, Chakotay had been reading the latest energy consumption report when long-range scans detected a ship.

“Mr Chakotay, sensors have detected a small Binat ship on an intercept course.” Tuvok readied his station for the battle that was surely to come.

“ETA?”

“Ten minutes.”

“Red Alert. Shields up, ready weapons.” Chakotay tapped his combadge. “Captain to the Bridge.”

“Janeway to Chakotay. Report.”

“Captain, a small Binat ship on long range scans. ETA ten minutes.”

“I’ll be right there.” Kathryn closed the cover on the power relay she’d just finished repairing, grabbed her jacket then quickly crawled out of the Jeffries tube and ran to the turbolift. As the doors opened on the Bridge, she nodded to Tuvok to give his report.

“Phasers and photon torpedos are charged and ready. Shields are up and fully powered.” Tuvok checked the board. “The Binat ship is at warp five.”

“Harry, display the tactical overview.” Kathryn sat down in her command chair and analysed the data. “Tom, change course to 218 mark 003, warp six.”

“Aye, Captain. Course entered.”

“Engage.” Kathryn settled back in her chair. Chakotay quickly looked at her as she concentrated on the viewscreen. Unconsciously, her hand went to her chest and stroked the pendant through her uniform. Touching the stone somehow gave her the strength and the willpower to overcome any obstacle because she had someone to live for, to come home to, and to love. It reassured her that whatever was going to happen they would be in it together. Their eyes met for a brief second and somehow how without words, they exchanged their love and support for one another. They turned back to concentrate on the tactical data on their console.

It didn’t take long for the battle to begin and for Voyager to be fighting for their survival again.

~*~

Harry Kim jumped at the sound of his console beeping. It took him half a second more than normal to find which button had beeped and was surprised when it was the incoming signal button. He was tired after spending most of the previous night assisting in the repairs to the long-range sensors. The Binat had never really bothered to introduce themselves, before trying to blow Voyager into a zillion bits. He quickly recovered though and was glad no one had seen his minor lapse. “Commander, we’re being hailed.”

“From where?” Chakotay asked.

Harry checked the scan. It wasn’t a surprise to him that the long-range sensors missed picking up the space station, as they were still not operating to their full potential. “A space station orbiting a class M planet.”

“Tuvok, find out what you can.” Chakotay pressed his combadge. “Captain to the Bridge.”

“Janeway here. Report.” Kathryn stopped reading the PADD and rose from behind her desk.

The Binat hadn’t attacked them for two days. It was the longest respite from a raid they’d had since the enemy first attacked them nearly a month ago. Kathryn was hoping that they’d finally passed through their territory. Voyager had been limping along at low warp as they struggled to repair the damage from the last, most crippling attack. Power was being conserved for the defensive systems. Shields, photon torpedos, and phasers had been repaired but other non-essential systems hadn’t been repaired yet. Sensor range was limited. Replicators were offline. Living conditions were cramped. Several decks and some individual quarters were uninhabitable including her quarters. The affected crew were relocated to other decks. Fresh food was about to run out. They wouldn’t starve yet as the emergency rations would last for another three months. Overall, Kathryn had been pleased by how well the crew was handling the privations and stress of the last month.

“We’re being hailed.”

Kathryn was alert now. Her mind raced, already processing several possible scenarios as she walked onto the Bridge from her Ready room. She hoped she hadn’t led her crew to the Binat home world. She shuddered at the thought. “The Binat?”

When the captain mentioned the Binat, all the Bridge crew became more alert. They’d all checked their stations, run quick diagnostics to make sure they’d be ready for anything.

Tuvok waited until his sensors finished the scan. “No, Captain. The energy signatures are very different.”

The growing tension dissipated when Tuvok said it wasn’t their current enemy.

“Direction?”

“On our present heading.”

“Distance?

“Two hours at our current speed.”

“Can you detect any ships?”

“No, Captain.”

Kathryn took her seat. “Mr Tuvok, what’s our status?”

“Shields, phasers, and photon torpedos are fully functional. Maximum speed is warp two.”

“B’Elanna said it would take another eight hours before warp drive is fully restored.” Chakotay handed Kathryn the latest Engineering report.

“Thank you.” Kathryn quickly scanned the overview. B’Elanna had detailed the damage to the warp drive. It was going to take time to repair the damage to the engines. For now, they couldn’t outrun a rowboat and a quick scan of the surrounding space showed it was clear of any nebulae or asteroid fields to use as cover. Her options were extremely limited to diplomacy. She crossed her legs and put on her best captain’s face. “Harry, open a channel.”

“Yes, Captain.” The ensign pressed the receive button.

A moment later, a humanoid appeared on the viewscreen. “Alien ship, I bid you welcome to Hora.”

Mr Tuvok’s eyebrow arched as he saw the alien appear while Chakotay and Kathryn quickly exchanged a quick glance of surprise at the appearance of this alien.

“My name is Captain Kathryn Janeway of the USS Voyager.” Kathryn remained polite but wary.

“I am First Minister Adian.” The alien smiled, at odds with his Vulcan like appearance of green tinged skin and pointed ears. “For two days, we have been tracking your ship as it crossed from Binat space to Horan …” Adian immediately saw the captain visibly tense. He held his hand up to try to reassure the aliens. “Please do not be alarmed. We scan all vessels to see if they require assistance after leaving Binat space.”

Kathryn let out the breath she was holding. “I see.”

Adian continued, “We would’ve contacted you sooner but our scans showed your ship did not require immediate assistance. Horan service ships are on stand by ready to render any help you may need.”

The Captain held her hands tightly as she could feel the tension rise again. If they’d been scanning them for two days and knew the state of the ship then there was no point in her trying to hide the ship’s true state of disrepair. Kathryn took a chance on these seemingly friendly aliens. “First Minister, my ship has been damaged. I would like to open negotiations for the use of any repair facilities you have.”

“Negotiations are not required.”

The captain frowned, suspicious of the Horan’s motives.

“Hora provides the space dock, spare parts, and labour as well as shore leave facilities free of charge and without obligation.”

Kathryn was stunned. She was sure there would be a catch. In the four years that they’d been in the Delta Quadrant, she couldn’t recall any altruistic societies. Still in shock, she managed to mumble, “Thank you for your most generous offer.”

Adian could tell the alien captain was astonished. Her disbelief was a common but rare one as so few ships come out of Binat space. “I realize you are sceptical but the Horan Federation is a rich one and has a tradition of philanthropy to strangers.”

Kathryn was now slightly embarrassed at her initial disbelieving reaction. “I apologize, First Minister. We have been travelling for four years through this Quadrant trying to return to our own Quadrant and have rarely encountered such generosity. The Federation that I represent also has a similar tradition of offering aid to strangers.”

“I completely understand.” Adian smiled. “It is good we have something in common already. I look forward to hearing of your travels. When you dock at the station, you can meet with me and the First Engineer to discuss your needs in detail.”

“Thank you, First Minister. I look forward to meeting you.”

“As do I. Adian out.”

The viewscreen went back to the field of stars whizzing by. No one said anything. Kathryn wasn’t the only one in a state of shock. Ninety nine percent of the aliens in the Delta Quadrant had turned out to be the belligerent type who shot first and only occasionally bothered to ask questions later.

Wondering when they’d become so cynical and mistrusting, Tom was the first to say what everyone had been thinking. “I know we shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth but …”

~*~

Their fears and suspicions had been unfounded. Since Voyager had docked at the space station, the Horan had been everything they’d said they were. The damage had been assessed and was in the process of being repaired. A long overdue overhaul was also scheduled. Even the low priority systems were going to be looked at, some for the first time since leaving the Alpha Quadrant. The Horan would even supply the ship with enough spare parts to last several years.

B’Elanna raved about how well and easily the Horan engineers were able to help repair Voyager and their quality of spare parts and raw materials. Tuvok, by his nature was very wary at first but then warmed, in a Vulcan way, to their new friends. He found nothing suspicious with the Horan but that didn’t mean he let them have the run of the ship. Neelix was beside himself even more than usual at the amount and variety of provisions that would be filling up his food storage areas.

The tired crew were able to catch up on lost sleep as they reverted to a normal, more relaxed, space station duty roster. Most of the ship’s crew had been able to spend at least a day down on the planet or on the space station.

Kathryn and Chakotay were yet to enjoy any free time on the planet or station. They’d been involved in organizing the repairs with the First Engineer, running the ship, or diplomacy with Horan officials. Adian and his spouse were delightful hosts and for the last two nights, they’d invited the command team to dinner parties at their home. Chakotay had enthralled the Horans as he talked of their journey through the Delta Quadrant. Kathryn had spoken about the Federation and its ideals, while Adian had talked about Horan history. They’d discovered their cultures were very similar. Although these functions were very congenial, they’d run late into the night and these late nights were finally now catching up on the two senior officers.

After the morning briefing, Mr Tuvok handed the captain two PADDs. Tuvok had decided to act after he noticed the captain stifling a yawn at the previous day’s morning briefing. Tuvok had been aware that the two hadn’t taken shore leave yet. After consulting with B’Elanna, the Doctor, and Adian, the Vulcan had understood there was nothing that required their personal attention. He’d spoken with Adian’s spouse who let them use their holiday home. Tuvok had organized the duty roster to allow them to have three days leave.

Rubbing her eyes, Kathryn groaned at the thought of reading more reports. Through tired eyes, she looked at the PADDs. “What are these?”

“They are not reports, Captain.”

Kathryn began to read the first one. It was the duty roster.

“I have taken the liberty of revising the duty roster.”

Chakotay looked at the Vulcan suspiciously. The duty roster was his domain as first officer. “Tuvok …”

“Sir, I apologize, but neither the captain nor you have taken leave. After discussions with B’Elanna and Adian, the repairs and the overhaul do not require your personal attention any longer.” Tuvok then looked directly at his captain. “The Doctor stated you needed time to recover fully from your …”

Kathryn smiled, only slightly tiffed at being outflanked by her second officer and CMO, who wasn’t even in the room. She held both arms up and interrupted him, “I surrender, Tuvok.”

Tuvok nodded. It had gone easier than he had thought it would. He’d been expecting to state various logical reasons why they should take leave but was gratified that his captain agreed with him. “Thank you, Captain. On the other PADD are directions and entry codes to the First Minister’s holiday home as well as a list of scenic locations, restaurants, and cultural activities that Adian thought you both might enjoy.”

Chakotay hadn’t been surprised at Tuvok’s thoroughness. “I take it that we’re on leave as from now.”

“Yes, sir. Please enjoy your time off together.”

Kathryn said sincerely, “From us both; thank you, Tuvok.”

Tuvok accepted their thanks with a nod.

Her oldest friend on the ship had been supportive of their relationship since she’d told him of it two years previously. She’d wanted his opinion and maybe even his approval since it may have affected her command of the ship. She also hadn’t wanted her relationship with Chakotay to affect their special friendship either. She still valued his advice and counsel.

Kathryn needn’t have worried. Tuvok had shocked her that day by saying that he’d known almost from their first days in the Delta Quadrant that she and Chakotay would eventually become much more than friends and he’d since confirmed that impression through their occasional mind melds. They were t'hy'la or soul mates. He had recognized their connection as he had felt the same when he’d met T’Pel.

“Well, Chakotay, I think Tuvok has everything covered. We’ll see you in three days time then.”

The couple left the Briefing room to change and pack before beaming down to the planet.

~*~

Kathryn and Chakotay materialized in front of Adian’s holiday home. It was a small house with a wide veranda. Kathryn dropped her bag on the front step then held Chakotay’s hand and turned them around toward the garden. Manicured lawns, colourful flowerbeds, and tall shady trees surrounded the house. The sky was a brilliant azure with not a cloud in the sky. A slow breeze drifted over them carrying a hint of jasmine from the flowers.

“It’s beautiful.” Kathryn looked around.

“Hmmm… yes it is …and so are you.” Chakotay placed his bag down and put an arm around her. Her head rested against his shoulder. Chakotay sighed already feeling relaxed.

They stood like that for a short time before Kathryn turned around in his arms to face him. Her arms wrapped around him, hugging him. She loved the feel of his body next to hers as they embraced. They fitted so well together.

Chakotay rubbed her back then ran his fingers over her hair. He sighed knowing there was nowhere else he wanted to be. She was his home and she completely owned his heart. Before he’d met Kathryn, he’d struggled to find peace in his life, but now she gave him that peace. He pulled back a little, cupped her face, and kissed her tenderly. “Kathryn, I love you.”

Kathryn’s heart swelled whenever he said he loved her or sang her name like that. She trembled as his thumb softly caressed her lips and cheek. She genttly kissed his thumb. “I love you too.” She was in heaven. Smiling, she stepped back and took out the PADD from the bag to get the door code.

They walked into the house but didn’t look around. Chakotay had eyes only for her, the love of his life. He only wanted to show her how much he loved her. He dropped his bag on the floor, then took her bag from her, and put it down as well. He wrapped his hand around hers and led her to the bedroom.

Chakotay stopped at the foot of the bed and turned her around so they faced each other. He still held her hand, fingers entwined. Her smile made his heart glow. He let go of her hand and looked at her. Kathryn was stunning; he loved her hair, her lips, and her shoulders. Everything. He wanted to look at all of her. She was wearing a simple blue dress that buttoned down the front. He slowly undid the buttons.

Kathryn’s skin flushed and quivered as his fingers just touched her skin as he undid the buttons. She couldn’t speak and allowed herself to be swept away by the wonderful sensations of his touches.

When he got to her hips, he stopped then let his fingers slowly feather up her arms and over her shoulders. Chakotay slowly pushed the dress from her shoulders and let the dress to fall at her feet. Every time he saw her body, he had the same reaction. Awe and wonder. He whispered, “You are so beautiful.” His fingers traced her collarbone, over her shoulders and then reached behind her, down her back to undo her bra and dropped it on top of the dress.

Kathryn moaned softly as his fingers gently touched her stone pendant in the valley between her breasts. Her nipples hardened in anticipation. He’d barely touched her but she was already so aroused. Her desire multiplied as his thumbs stroked her nipples while cupping her breasts. Whimpering, she arched toward him. She couldn’t believe how wet she was already. She could see how aroused Chakotay was by his tented shorts and she hadn’t even touched him yet.

Chakotay kissed his way up her neck and onto her lips. He held her head in his hands as he kissed her thoroughly then he undressed. Kathryn’s eyes roamed over his body adding to her desire and want. He held her hands again as he helped her step over her clothes then gathered her up and lay her down on the bed. Kneeling beside her, he kissed, teased, and sucked her nipples and then worked his way down her stomach while he caressed her thighs. A hand ran over her mound causing her to moan again. He was ready to see all of her so he slowly took off her wet panties. He could smell her arousal. It fuelled his desire and need even more. He was hard and as ready as she was.

Sensing his need, Kathryn spread her legs wide and beckoned him to come to her. He slid over her, resting his elbows next to her head. She loved the weight of him on her and the feel of his body on her as he moved inside her. She gazed deeply into his eyes. “I love you, Chakotay.”

“I know.” He tilted his hips allowing the head of his penis to run over her wet lips and he smiled as he felt her shudder and heard her moan. He then positioned himself near her entrance. “I love you,” he said softly as he entered her slowly. Her inner muscles quivered as he leisurely moved in and out of her. Her hands rested on his bum as he established a tantalizing slow pace. He nuzzled her neck, gently biting and sucking.

Kathryn brought her knees up allowing deeper penetration. Her hands began to squeeze his cheeks in time with his gradually increasing rhythm. She kissed him passionately, wantonly forcing her tongue in to dance around his. Their pace increased as they kissed more fervently.

Her ankles locked around the small of his back. He grunted as he began to lose control. Her hands held onto his back as their thrusts became more powerful. She could tell he was trying to hold back waiting for her to come. She was close but he was even closer. She clenched her inner muscles around his length as she whispered in his ear, “Come for me, my love.” She kissed him again. “Come for me, Chakotay. Fill me with your love. I love you.” Her own thrusts and pulses grew stronger. “This is for you.” His grunts and moans became louder. Kathryn whispered, “I’m yours. Forever…”

Chakotay’s control was lost and he allowed the passion to flow from him and filled her with his very essence. As he came, he growled her name into the air and continued to drive into her several more times until he was spent, collapsing on her.

Kathryn wrapped her arms around his sweaty back and held him tightly. The feel of his heart pounding against hers, his chest heaving and the warm feeling of him inside her all filled her with as much joy as if she’d had her own release. She gently caressed his back until his breathing returned to normal and then he rolled off her.

“Oh … Kathryn.” Chakotay wasn’t capable of all that much rational thought at the moment. It had been over two weeks since they’d last made love. The Binat attacks had left them too physically and mentally exhausted for anything other than cuddles. He missed their very intimate connection. He found her hand and squeezed it gently. “You were amazing. I’m sorry I couldn’t …”

“Shh … Relax. It was my pleasure.” ‘Definitely my pleasure,’ she thought. Her eyes closed, resting in the after glow of their lovemaking.

Chakotay turned his head and stared at his love beside him, at the soft curve of her breast rising and falling as she breathed. His eyes followed the graceful curves of her glistening body down to her soft curls. He just had to touch her so he edged closer and rested his head on one hand, as the other made the slow tortuous journey from her pert nipples, all over her breasts then down her stomach. As his light touches edged closer to her mound, her skin trembled and he could hear her low moans. He skirted around her curls to run down the top of her thigh and then back up toward her core via her inner leg, spreading them as he went.

Kathryn’s breathing quickened. She kept her eyes closed but moved her arms above her head. She was completely at his mercy. His tongue captured a nipple, sucking and kissing it as his other hand rubbed her mons. Sliding his hand over her mound and through her dripping lips, he then sank his fingers deep into her canal, first one, then two and then finally three. He lavished one breast and nipple then the other, and all the time, slowly plunging in and out of her core, occasionally his thumb would find her swollen nub just for a moment, making her arch her back toward him even more.

Whimpering and writhing, her head rolled from side to side and the tingling sensation began to grow deep within her under Chakotay’s wonderful ministrations. He flicked and tweaked her nipple causing another guttural moan. Her inner muscles gripped around his fingers as he still moved them slowly in and out.

Kathryn wanted her release and moaned, “Oh …God! Chakotay ...harder ...please…”

Chakotay barely heard her plea but was happy to oblige. He tweaked harder on her nipple while driving his fingers into her. She bucked and arched as he kept going harder and faster until her toes curled, her entire body shuddered and she groaned his name as he flicked and teased her clit sending her finally over the edge to ecstasy and to her glorious release.

He rolled back over and gathered her breathless and limp body in his arms, caressing her tenderly and telling her he loved her. Sated, they soon fell asleep in each other’s arms.

~*~

Kathryn woke up to Chakotay’s gentle snoring. It was dark and she had no idea what time it was until she turned to the clock on the bedside table. It was 2330 hours. She shook her head when she realized she’d slept for twelve hours. As soon as she woke up, her mind was alert, and she knew there was no point in her trying to get back to sleep. She carefully got up and walked into the living room.

The moonlight through the open curtains provided enough light to find her bag. She put on some shorts and a tee shirt. It was a warm balmy night with just a hint of a breeze to prevent it from being too hot. After having a glass of water, she picked up a picnic rug and a cushion then went outside to enjoy the night sky. She didn’t want to wake Chakotay up. He needed the sleep just as she had.

Looking up at the clear sky, she saw millions of unfamiliar stars. As she placed the rug on the spongy grass, she remembered lying on the grass, looking up at the stars with her father. He’d shown her all the planets, stars, constellations, nebulae and galaxies that were out there ready for her to explore, if she wanted to. He’d fired her imagination with stories of his own travels among the stars and he’d been the driving force behind her interest in the sciences, and in particular, astronomy. He was the reason why she wanted to be a Science officer.

One of her favourite remembrances of her father was when she’d handed him a copy of her PhD dissertation. It was the only time she’d seen her father shed a tear as he’d read her heartfelt dedication to him for inspiring her and challenging her to be a scientist. Edward Janeway had told her soon after, that he was never more proud of her when, at her graduation, they’d saluted and then he’d handed her her degree certificates and her commission. She sighed deeply. Even though it has been over a decade since he died, she still missed him terribly.

Kathryn refocused on the night sky and its sea of stars and after a few seconds, she laughed. She saw an outline of a dog. As a young child of six or seven, she and her father had played games of trying to see what animal or object they could see in the night sky. She’d played this game with Naomi a few times but it wasn’t the same as the joy that her father had shown when he was with her.

She tried to smother the growing lump in her throat but failed. Would she ever show her own child the patterns in the sky, or inspire him or her to go onto great things as her father had with her? Was it too late for her to have a child? She didn’t know. She was forty-three and in good shape. She soon realized she wanted to have a baby with the man who was her true love, her soul mate and best friend. She decided she couldn’t wait until they were back in the relative safety of the Alpha Quadrant. That could take thirty years.

She turned her head toward the house, toward her love, Chakotay. He was a wonderful, attentive, caring man who loved her with a passion that still amazed her and she returned that love with an equal passion. They hadn’t talked yet about wanting children. It was something that they’d put in the too hard basket. They’d baby-sat Naomi a few times, and together they were easy and relaxed around her. Chakotay would make a wonderful father. She had no doubt about that at all.

She took the stone from under her shirt and studied the tattoo etched on its smooth surface. That little piece of plain brown stone filled her again with the strength to ask Chakotay if he wanted a child. She’d had it for less than a week but it was working its magic again, giving her a new promising resolution to fulfil.

‘Resolution?’ she wondered. After a quick calculation, she slapped her hand to her forehead and thought how stupid she was. First, she’d forgotten Christmas and now she’d forgotten New Year’s Eve. She smiled though; at least she would have a New Year’s resolution to promise to keep.

Chakotay rolled over as he woke up and stretched the kinks out of his body. It was 0010 hours and he’d had well over twelve hours sleep. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d had that much uninterrupted sleep, but he guessed his body and his mind had needed it.

Kathryn wasn’t beside him but he wasn’t worried. He strolled out to the kitchen to get a glass of water. Kathryn wasn’t inside either. ‘Don’t panic yet,’ he told himself. He saw the bags on the floor and got out a pair of shorts. He couldn’t go searching through the grounds naked. Pulling them on, he looked out the window and relaxed as he could see her lying on the grass, looking up at the sky. He walked out of the house toward her and for a moment, he was lost in memories of his childhood, of grass between his toes. It had been a very long time since he’d walked without shoes on grass.

Kathryn patted the rug. “Hi, my love. Lie with me?”

Chakotay nodded and lay down next to her, kissing her gently on the cheek.

Kathryn found his hand and gently rubbed her thumb over the knuckles. “Do you know what day it is?”

“Hmm… ” He remembered he’d asked her the same question a few days ago. “Stardate or Earth calendar?” It had to be late December but he couldn’t pin point the exact day.

“Earth calendar.”

“Late December?”

Nodding, she squeezed his hand. “It’s New Year’s Eve.”

“Actually, you’re about ten minutes late.” His tribe celebrated the Spring Equinox as a time of renewal and rebirth but the traditions were very similar to the arbitrary date of January 1st.

“Oh well, it doesn’t matter.” She leant over and kissed him. “Happy New Year, Chakotay.”

“Same to you,” he said as he returned the kiss. The first thought that came into his mind was that they might make their own fireworks soon if she continued to touch him as she was.

“That’s okay.” She ran her hand over his nipple just as he’d thought about making their own fireworks. He trembled a little when she seemed to know exactly what he was thinking.

Her fingers continued to draw circles over his chest. “I’ve been out here looking at the stars. They’re so different to the ones my father showed me when I was a little girl but beautiful just the same. We would lie on the lawn in our backyard, like this, and my father would tell me all about the stars and the planets. He would tell me everything about them from the mythology behind their names to their structure and what things they didn’t know. He inspired my curiosity on how things worked. He made me who I …” Her voice cracked with emotion.

“I know you still miss him, Kathryn,” Chakotay said softly, wrapping his arms around her, comforting her.

“Thank you, Chakotay.” After a few moments, she sat him up so they faced each other. After a deep breath to calm her nerves, she held his hands. “I’ve made a New Year’s resolution. I want to do what my father did for me. I want to inspire my… no … I mean our little girl or boy and so much more. What I mean is that I want us to have a family.” Her voice quietened and her heart pounded. “I want us to have a child.”

His heart jumped to his throat. He’d always wanted to have children but he realized they’d never talked about having a family. They’d just never gotten around to it. Or had they been too afraid? He didn’t know. Maybe the unhappy experience when Seska had tricked him with Cullah’s baby had made any talk of a child difficult for both of them.

The more he thought about the whole idea, the more he wanted it. He loved her so much and she loved him, he sure about that. There would be some difficult times ahead but he hoped there would be times that were far more wondrous and he knew there was nothing they couldn’t do, together, if they thought about it.

Kathryn wasn’t sure how to take his silence. “Chakotay, I’m sorry I didn’t mean to rush you into anything …”

“Shhh,… Oh …Kathryn.” He put his finger on her lips to silence her. “I love you.” Suddenly he felt tears well in his eyes and he became too emotional to speak. All that he’d ever dreamed of and wanted was coming true. He had the love of his soul mate, a beautiful and intelligent woman who wanted to have his children. Tears fell down his cheeks. “I love you so much and I want us to have a baby.”

Kathryn stroked the tears away with her thumb but felt her own tears of joy form. “Oh … my dear Chakotay. Thank you. You’ve made me so happy. I love you.” She hugged him tightly as they both cried tears of joy in each other’s arms.

“I’m a little overwhelmed.”

“Me, too.”

They held each other in a warm embrace for a few more moments, then Chakotay cupped her face, running his thumb over her lips. He kissed her softly. As their bodies touched, he felt her stomach move against his, and wondered what she would look like, belly all swollen, with their baby inside her. Smiling, he looked forward to it all, but he wasn’t sure how he, she, or the crew would cope with her morning sickness, mood swings, and lack of caffeine.

“Kathryn, I’ll be here with you always. I love you.” He kissed her again while his hands moved through her hair and over her back.

Her fingers circled his bare back as they deepened the kiss until they broke apart. She whispered in his ear, “I’m yours. Forever.”

He studied her face and her cheeks then looked into those deep blue eyes that could see right into his soul. They’d been through so much together. He couldn’t imagine being with anyone else. They were soul mates. No one filled his heart with such joy and love. He wanted to spend the rest of his life together with her, to grow old together and to see their children grow and have kids themselves. He wanted to be with her forever. “Kathryn, I love you. Would you bond with me for eternity? Will you marry me?”

Kathryn felt it was coming. She could see it in his eyes but she didn’t hesitate. “Yes, Chakotay. I’ll marry you. I love you too.” She kissed him again. “On one condition.”

“The condition?”

“We do it today. ASAP.”

“The sooner the better works for me too.” Chakotay understood why she wanted she wanted a very quick engagement, considering her history.

“Good. We’ll call Tuvok in the morning and since he’s the acting captain while we’re on leave, he can marry us.” She paused, thinking of a time. “What about at 1400 hours?”

He nodded, allowing her to take charge. It was all right with him. He was just deliriously happy. They could get married on Betazed with all that entailed. He just didn’t care as long as there were ‘I will’s exchanged and it was legal.

“Great. Now the where?” Her fingers clicked together as she thought of the ideal place. “New Earth.”

“Perfect.” Chakotay kissed her forehead. Their love had blossomed on that planet. It was very dear to them. As soon as they’d returned, they’d made a stunning recreation of that world on the Holodeck. It was an oasis for them. It was a place where they could be a couple in love and not just the CO and XO of Voyager.

Kathryn beamed. She’d never been so happy, thrilled, or excited all at the one time.

“I have a condition,” Chakotay smirked.

“You do?”

“Hmmm …yes I do.” He paused for effect, “You know the overhaul won’t be completed in three days time. Allow the ship to be fully overhauled. It needs it. You know the crew needs the leave. Give it to them. They deserve it.” He appealed to her sense of responsibility first before putting in his personal request. “Extend our leave. We need it. I want a decent honeymoon. One entire week, or two if you’re feeling generous. I want you all to myself. I want to make love whenever and wherever we want to without Voyager interrupting, some shit of a DQ alien trying to kill us or some other petty personnel problem to deal with.” He kissed her thoroughly, grinding his hips into hers to help make his point.

“Well, I don’t know. I think I can convince Tuvok and the Doctor to agree to your terms if you put it that way. I might have a fight on my hands but I think I can persuade them for the extra days.”

“You do that,” Chakotay said in between lavishing kisses on her neck.

“I will. That’s all settled then.” Kathryn moaned as he nuzzled her sensitive spot behind her ear. “I love you.”

“Let me show you how much I love you.” He smiled devilishly as a thumb tweaked a nipple through her shirt while the other hand snaked beneath her shorts and ran through her curls.

“You do that.” She grinned as she pushed her hips against his willing fingers, wanting him more than ever before.

Chakotay pulled off her tee shirt and shorts and then they got in some more practice on how to make babies.

The End