CONCLUSION

 

xxx

 

HOME IN YOUR HEART

 

xxx

 

We garb ourselves in garments of illusion to hide who we are.

 

Others see only the garments and perceive this as our essence.

 

We forget that we are hiding. And, in time, when we look

 

into the mirror at our reflections, we believe it is truth.

 

It is not. Take off your illusions and see the scars. And the light.

 

Find yourself. And, through finding yourself, you can see past my

 

illusions and find me.

 

Kaldene of Andore, Senior Priestess of Temple E’Aegix

 

“Path to Light”

 

Book one, chapter one, verse twenty

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER ONE

 

xxx

 

“Time, 06:00,” the computer announced with an accompanying chime.

 

Annika stretched, and then lay back into the pillow for a few long moments, her thoughts turning to B’Elanna asleep in the living room, and their conversation last night.

 

She really had no idea how to go about dating, or courting, as B’Elanna had referred to it. She thought back to when she had last participated in what could be called a date. It was shortly before the ‘incident’ with Silvik. Most of her dates had been a onetime occurrence, consisting of dinner or lunch, a little conversation of things of interest…or not, in most cases. And, rarely ever see the person again in a social setting, or alone, with the purpose of getting to know them better in a romantic context.

 

She did not view the time she spent with Voncel as dating. They certainly had not courted. In view of their betrothal, others perceived them as a couple, and as such, they were expected to accompany each other to social functions. She put these in the same category as she did her outings and social functions she attended with Jude. She and Voncel did visit each other in their homes to share dinner and watch an occasional vid together. However, she considered these activities as something you participated in with friends.

 

She finally got out of bed, going to the bathroom to take a sonic shower, and prepare for the day.

 

Now dressed, she quietly exited the bedroom, almost tiptoeing to the kitchen area, and turned the area lighting low. She replicated a cup of tea and a hot bowl of chenal, which was a Vulcan cereal similar to amaranth. She also included a half-cup of milk and a dollop of honey to go on the cereal.

 

Seating herself at the dining table, she glanced over at the figure still asleep on the couch. She was not sure what time B’Elanna woke, but according to the logs, she was always a little early for her 08:00 work shift.

 

While she could make out the form of the sleeping woman, she could not see the details in the dim lighting from the starlight and running lights outside the window. When her Pon Farr was at its end, and she was more aware of her what occurred around her, she had discovered that B’Elanna was a sound sleeper: Rarely moving and her respiration was quiet.

 

She finished her meal, going back to the bathroom to brush her teeth before leaving her quarters and proceeding to her ready room. She had an hour before officially reporting for duty.

 

She settled into her chair and moved the comm unit on the desktop in front of her, feeling trepidation concerning the comm calls she had to make. It was illogical to feel this way, but lately, logic seemed to be missing from many of her thoughts. Perhaps due to the after effects of Pon Farr.

 

She placed the call and waited, taking a deep breath to try to calm her nerves. Voncel’s image appeared on the screen, and seeing Annika, she said evenly, “Annika. Greetings.” She had a slight lifting of the corners of her mouth, which indicated that she was pleased. Annika could see by the background that Voncel was at home.

 

“Voncel. I hope all goes well with you,” Annika said in a calm voice.

 

“It does. I am sorry that your project did not go as planned. We received your message through subspace channels and were relieved that Raven and her crew were not injured.”

 

“It was a success in that I know what must be done to rectify the problem. The next test will be successful.”

 

“I am pleased, then. When may I expect you home?”

 

“In approximately three weeks.” Annika changed her position to set straighter in her chair and said, “Voncel, I need to inform you of an event that occurred in which I had to take…certain radical actions concerning my well being and health: Actions that will affect our relationship.”

 

Voncel’s features had a minute tightening and she blinked. “Continue.”

 

‘She suspects.’ “I entered into Pon Farr. There was no way for me to make it home in time to you. Medications, and other methods, were ineffective. My only recourse was to take a mate. As you can see, it was the logical decision.”

 

Voncel was silent for a long moment before saying, “I agree. It was the logical action to take. May I ask? The one you chose as a mate--Is the bond permanent?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“I see. Have you developed…emotional…ties to this person?”

 

‘What is she asking?’ Does she want me still as a mate?’ “There, of course, remain certain emotional ramifications to what occurred between us. We are pursuing a…courtship…to learn more about each other and see if there is a possibility that this may lead to a relationship which could be defined as a marriage.”

 

Voncel looked intently at her and gave one nod of her head before saying, “Then I wish you well, if this is what you want. Whom did you select as your mate?”

 

“B’Elanna Torres.”

 

Voncel’s brow lifted in obvious surprise and she was silent for a moment. Annika knew this was disquieting for the woman as she had counseled against hiring B’Elanna based on her Starfleet record and Klingon genetic makeup. She had also informed Annika that she felt that B’Elanna could be difficult to work with based on her interview when she first arrived on Vulcan.

 

Voncel said in a voice that was not in the least bit neutral, “That surprises me, Annika. Was there no one else?”

 

Annika felt ‘vexed’ by this question. “No. She was the only choice. However, in her defense, she did not enter into this frivolously. It was a sacrifice on her part. She possesses both compassion and honor and her treatment of me has been with both dignity and respect. I am fortunate that in my time of need she agreed to…assist me. I am indebted to her, as I am indebted to you for what you were willing to sacrifice for me. I thank you.”

 

Voncel inclined her head in a nod. “I assure you, Annika, it would not have been a sacrifice on my part.” She paused and continued, “You are indeed fortunate that there was a successful resolution.” She then lifted her left hand in the time honored Vulcan salute. “Live long and prosper, Annika.”

 

Annika mirrored the salute. “Live long and prosper, Voncel.”

 

Voncel’s image faded, Annika letting out her breath, and for a moment closed her eyes, feeling a small niggling of guilt. ‘It is illogical to feel guilt. I did what was necessary.’ She also felt disappointed. Disappointed that Voncel seemed disappointed. Logically, that was not her problem, it was Voncel’s problem.

 

She had one more call to make. That one was to her mother. She knew her mother would be disappointed in her choice of mates. Her mother had already considered Voncel her daughter-in-law, urging Annika several times in the past, and recently, to marry Voncel. She had said that Voncel was willing to do this, which Annika knew, as Voncel had broached the subject several times. However, she could never come to the point where she was willing to do that, feeling she just was not ready.

 

Now she did not have to make that decision. Pon Farr had made the decision for her.

 

She thought again of the dance last night. There was no doubt that their bond remained. There was no doubt that she was physically attracted to B’Elanna. There was doubt, however, that their relationship would strengthen to encompass not only the physical aspects, but the intangible aspects as well. The intangible aspects being love and all that it entailed. She had never experienced love and was at a loss to define what it encompassed.

 

Also, how did one go about courting? She would seek Jude’s advice. After all, Jude seemed determined to play ‘matchmaker’ and Annika felt it was her friend’s obligation to give her pointers.

 

First, she would call her mother. She punched in the comm call but only got a message that no one was available to take her call. She left a brief message that she was well and what her expected arrival date on Vulcan would be.

 

She had no doubt that Voncel would inform her mother of what had transpired. The possibility was that the events were already being relayed.

 

She did not want to dwell on what her mother’s thoughts and opinions would be on the subject, so she picked up a PADD from her desktop and began to read the reports pertaining to ship’s business.

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER TWO

 

xxx

 

B’Elanna looked at the chronometer in engineering and saw that it was almost time for lunch.

 

“Denal. Take over for me. I’m going to lunch.”

 

“Very well, Chief.”

 

B‘Elanna walked into her office and sat behind her desk. “Computer. Judith Kleinberg.”

 

“Kleinberg.”

 

“Jude. B’Elanna, here. How about grabbing me a chicken salad sandwich, milk, and one of those big chocolate chip cookies and bring it to my office, and have lunch with me. I need to talk to you about something.”

 

“Fine. I’m getting off for lunch now and will stop by the mess hall. See you in a little bit.”

 

B’Elanna went to the small bathroom in her office and washed her hands. She went back to her desk, sat in her chair, and started to straighten the desktop. She thought about the conversation she had last night with Annika, and the decision they had agreed upon concerning their relationship. Or rather, steps to try and establish a relationship based on more than their sexual attraction to each other.

 

‘I want to do this right. This is too important to me to mess up. I think I‘m already falling for her. For her to agree to try for a relationship is a good sign isn’t it? I mean, I think it’s more than a physical attraction. We touched something important in each other when we bonded during Pon Farr. I feel there is something basic in our makeup that is like two halves fitting together to make a whole.’

 

She was brought out of her ruminations by her office door sliding open and Jude entering with a big smile on her face and a tray of food. She placed the tray on the edge of the desk and removed B’Elanna‘s sandwich, milk and cookie. She also removed some sort of noodle dish for herself, green jello and a fruit drink. She pushed a chair up close to the desk and took a seat.

 

“Dig in,” she said to B’Elanna and ate a few bites, took a sip of her drink, swallowed, and continued, “So. How are you feeling? Better I hope.”

 

“Fine. I want to apologize for running out last night.”

 

“No apology needed. Annika was concerned and left right away to check on you,” Jude said, and looked at B’Elanna expectantly.

 

B’Elanna was silent and continued eating, knowing that Jude was fishing for information.

 

Jude took a few bites of her jello and nonchalantly asked, “Anything happen between you…ah…after you two were back in your quarters?”

 

B’Elanna smirked and said, “I don’t kiss and tell.”

 

Jude looked at her with wide eyes, grinned, and said excitedly, “Do say! I want a blow by blow description.” Jude thought asking this was fair game. She would never ask these questions about the same activities that occurred during Pon Farr. That was taboo as what occurred during that time was not really by choice but uncontrolled drives and instinct.

 

B’Elanna didn’t say anything and took another bite of her sandwich.

 

“Come on, B’Elanna. You’re killing me here,” Jude cajoled, almost begging.

 

B‘Elanna rolled her eyes and said, “We talked. That’s all. I should be mad as hell at your little shenanigans last night. But at least it got us talking.”

 

Jude exclaimed, “You two need all the help you can get. So, space me for caring. Now, what did you two talk about?”

 

“Kahless, but you’re nosy. We’re going to start dating…courting…seeing each other…whatever, and see what happens. That’s why I want to see you. You know…get some tips on what Annika likes to do…things like that.” Before Jude could reply, she glared at her and said, “Advice Jude. No interference. Do you understand?”

 

“I can’t promise that. I love Nick and want to see her happy. I think you’ll make her happy. So space me.”

 

B‘Elanna said, “I know you care…and want what‘s best for her. That’s why I’m coming to you for advice. Please, Jude. Let us handle this at our own pace, and in our own way.”

 

Jude sighed. “Okay. What do you want to know?”

 

“Let’s start out simple. What’s some her favorite foods?”

 

“That’s easy. Spaghetti with tomato and mushroom sauce has to be her favorite food. I’ll teach you how to make it the way she likes.”

 

B’Elanna looked at her with a frown, and firmly stated, “I don’t do cooking.”

 

“Hey. It’s easy to make. Anyone can learn to make it. I’m not talking about that replicator stuff either. The noodles are all right replicated, but the tomato sauce you have to make from scratch. Oh, and garlic bread to go with it. There‘s a bakery in the city that has a bread very similar to Italian bread.

 

“You can’t go wrong with chicken dishes. Fried, baked, parmesan. She likes seafood, too.” She then made a face and shuddered, “Liver and onion and Brussel sprouts, too. And most Vulcan dishes.”

 

B’Elanna nodded. “I guess I can learn to cook a few of those things.”

 

Jude said, “I’m not sure how kosher you are about Klingon food. She won’t eat live worms, or anything living. She‘s pretty picky about her food. Her meat has to be well done with no pink showing. That goes for liver, too. She doesn’t do the sushi thing. So no raw seafood.”

 

B’Elanna gave a small smirk. “I’m not into gagh and raw meat, myself. Most Klingon dishes don’t agree with my digestive system. I do like traditional Mexican dishes though: Enchiladas, tamales, burritos, beans and rice, and foods spiced with chili peppers.”

 

“She’ll like most of that. She likes some of the highly spiced Vulcan dishes so the chili peppers wouldn’t pose a problem.”

 

“Okay. Dessert, breakfast?”

 

Jude answered, “Ice creams and sherbets. Brownies with ice cream and pie a la mode.” She grinned, lifted her eyebrows, and with a twinkle in her eyes said, “You want her falling at your feet and kissing your toes? Fresh ripe strawberries from Earth and cream to dip them in.” She smirked and added, “Just think, you could feed them to her with your very own little fingers. Imagine those luscious, red, ripe, juicy berries going between those luscious, red, ripe lips as said lips caress your fingertips.”

 

B’Elanna felt heat infuse her cheeks, knowing she was blushing, and blurted, “Jude! Kahless! Get serious.”

 

Jude laughed wickedly. “Really. She adores them. I have an address where you can order them right from Earth, and the cream, too. You can have them delivered in a couple of days and they keep well in a stasis container for almost a week. Her birthday is coming up late next month, and that would be a great time to order them. I can recommend some gifts, too. In fact, we can go shopping together when we get home and I can help you pick out some things I‘m sure she would like.”

 

“Sounds good. How ‘bout leisure activities? What things does she like to do and we can do together?”

 

Jude snickered, slyly saying, “Hmmm, I’m sure you can…ah…think of something you can…ah…do… together.”

 

“I’m gonna kill you,” B’Elanna said as she rolled her eyes.

 

xxx

 

Annika pushed herself out of the First Mate’s chair, nodded to Verias, and said, “I have business I must attend to. I shall return shortly.”

 

Captain Verias nodded and returned to reading the PADD she was holding.

 

Annika entered the turbo lift and said, “Deck five.” She was on her way to see Jude. She had checked Jude’s location and confirmed that she was in her office. She had buzzed her friend earlier to come and join her for lunch, but she was not in her office. Annika assumed that Jude had already left for lunch in the mess hall. Jude preferred the mess hall, while Annika preferred the privacy of the ready room as she often worked and read reports while eating.

 

She exited the turbo lift, making her way to Jude’s office. She rang the chime and the door swished open. She entered and saw a smiling Jude sitting at her desk.

 

“Nick. What brings you here?”

 

“Do you have a few minutes to engage in conversation?”

 

“Sure, take a seat.” She indicated a chair at the side of her desk.

 

Annika settled herself into the chair and said, “I need your advice.”

 

“You’ve come to the right place. What bits of wisdom can I impart to you?”

 

Jude noticed that Nick looked uncomfortable for a moment. In fact, since her Pon Farr, her emotions were much easier to read and her face and voice were much more animated. Jude did not know if this would be permanent or something that was transitory.

 

Some of the information she had read on Vulcans bonding with Humans indicated that Vulcans often became more ‘emotional’ due to the influence of their partner’s more emotional makeup. Granted, Annika was not Vulcan, but she was emotionally controlled, and had the ability to sense emotions in others through touch, and strong emotions without touch. Jude felt that this ‘display’ of emotion was a good thing, as she had always felt that it was unhealthy for Annika to be so rigid in her emotional control.

 

“B’Elanna and I have made a decision that we will participate in the activity of courting. This is so we may learn more about each other and determine if we can develop a viable relationship with one another.”

 

“And you want my opinion?”

 

“No. I want you to direct me on how to conduct a courtship.”

 

‘Ah, Ha. B’Elanna and now Annika. Promising, very promising.’ “Well. Let’s see. First of all, you need to find out her likes and dislikes. What foods she likes, places she might like to go, hobbies, interests…that kind of thing. What do you know so far about these kinds of things?”

 

“That she likes Klingon coffee and an occasional ale. She has ordered banana pancakes on several occasions for breakfast. I do not know what she prefers for lunch, as we are both on duty at that time. I am not sure what she prefers for dinner, since I am seldom in my quarters at that time.”

 

“Breakfast is a start. For lunch and dinner, I know she likes traditional Mexican dishes. I believe there are a few recipes in the replicator. When we get home, you need to learn to prepare a few from fresh ingredients. I have some recipes somewhere. Tacos should be easy.”

 

Annika nodded. “You will assist me?”

 

“Of course. First, this is what you need to do. Get up early, before she does, and replicate her breakfast a few times. That shows you care and want to please her. Try to get back to your quarters in time to make her dinner. It won’t kill you to work a normal eight-hour shift a few times. Or invite her to Sandrine’s for dinner, dancing, and a drink.”

 

Annika nodded. The idea of a dinner at Sandrine’s was fine, however the dancing she would need to consider after what happened the last time.

 

Jude continued, “Oh, and when we get home, surprise her with flowers or something special, like taking her out to a restaurant or vid-show. When she dresses up, always tell her how nice she looks.” Jude lifted her eyebrows and smirked. “You want to get really romantic and show her you really care? Get out that harp thingy you have and serenade her with that sexy voice of yours. Pick a sentimental love song. That’ll have her heart all in a flutter.”

 

Annika looked at her with some surprise and Jude saw a slight flush to her face.

 

Annika said evenly, “I shall reference that for the future, if, and when, the circumstances warrant.”

 

Jude gave her a small smirk. “You do that. Oh, as far as leisure activities, I do know she likes to play poker. In fact, I can arrange a little game in a couple of nights. You do remember how to play, don’t you?”

 

Annika raised her left eyebrow and inquired, “Shall I wear extra articles of clothing?”

 

“What?” Jude asked in confusion.

 

“In the past, when we played poker with some of your friends from school, you always instructed me to wear extra articles of clothing so I would not lose them all.”

 

Jude burst into loud laughter and almost fell out of her chair, clutching her sides and trying to catch her breath.

 

Annika had a slight smirk on her face.

 

Jude finally managed to quell her laughter. “You never lost, did you? Much to the disappointment of most of the guys and a few of the gals. I know for a fact a few of the guys got together and arranged to cheat on the chance that they would get a glimpse of paradise. I’ve often wondered how you always managed to…keep your shirt on.”

 

“I was aware that they had planned to cheat. I, in turn, thought it only fair for me to use any advantage that I could. Therefore, I kept count of the cards that had been played. I was a better cheater than they were.”

 

Jude chortled, got a devilish look in her eyes, and said, “Of course, if you want to play strip poker, I think I can arrange that. I might even be able to arrange for B‘Elanna to lose.” She gave a wag of her eyebrows.

 

Annika replied with a slight edge to her voice and a small sneer, “And I can arrange to put you out an airlock.”

 

Jude cleared her throat and said, “We’ll play for credits.”

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER THREE

 

xxx

 

The door to her quarters opened and Annika immediately smelled the tantalizing aroma of roasted herb chicken. She entered and saw B’Elanna setting a platter on the table that had a white tablecloth and two place settings.

 

She noticed that B’Elanna’s hair had a small braid on the left side and she wore a pale yellow short-sleeved pullover shirt and a pair of blue jeans that were cut low below the waist. The shirt was tucked into the jeans and a white belt was through the loops.

 

B’Elanna looked at her and smiled. “I thought I would prepare some dinner for us. I hope you like roasted herb chicken with baby carrots and new potatoes. For dessert I thought we would have orange sherbet.”

 

Much to B’Elanna’s delight, she saw a slight smile grace Annika’s lips and the woman‘s voice sounded pleased when she said, “Very acceptable. It smells delicious.”

 

“I hope it tastes delicious. Hmm, what would you like to drink?”

 

“Iced sweet tea. Please.”

 

“That sounds good. I think I’ll have the same.”

 

“Do I have time for a sonic shower?”

 

“No problem. I just replicated it so it should still be hot when you get out.”

 

Annika nodded and walked to her bedroom, immediately going to her closet to select something to wear. She wanted to pick something nice, but selection was limited, as she had packed for a short trip. She decided to replicate something and looked through the inventory of clothes available. Functional items, such as coveralls and work outfits, were provided free. However, other items of clothing were charged credits. That is why the crewmembers often brought their casual and dress clothing with them.

 

Annika did have plenty of credits in the ship’s account, allowing her to select a mint green, sleeveless knit top with a turtleneck, a tan pair of chinos. She also picked a white pair of canvas slip on shoes.

 

When she finished showering, she checked her appearance in the mirror, deciding to take her hair down from its customary twist. While brushing her hair she wondered if B’Elanna considered preparing dinner a part of the courtship rituals. This brought a smile to her face and she thought, yes, this could be considered a date…of sorts.

 

She exited the bathroom, went to the dining room, and to the table. B’Elanna was standing by the table and smiled, gallantly moved the chair out and motioned Annika to sit.

 

Annika took her seat and said, “Thank you.” She added, “You look very nice.”

 

B’Elanna gave a shy smile and said, “Thank you. So do you.”

 

Annika felt warmth in her cheeks and knew she was blushing.

 

B’Elanna saw the blush and her smile grew bigger.

 

She stood by Annika’s chair and said, “I’ll serve.” She took Annika’s plate and put one of the chicken quarters on it with a serving of the glazed carrots and new potatoes. She placed the plate in front of Annika and then placed a tumbler of iced sweet tea by the plate.

 

She went to her seat, took the napkin, and put it on her lap. Looking at Annika, she noticed that she cut her chicken with her knife and fork before taking a bite on her fork.

 

B’Elanna was of the opinion that chicken, be it fried or roasted, was a finger food as long as it wasn’t off the bone or in a casserole or soup. In fact, when on QonoS, a fork was seldom used for any type of meat. She decided that she would use her knife and fork to cut the chicken. After all, Annika was brought up on Vulcan and Vulcans seldom touched their food with their fingers. Of course, some Earth cultures didn’t eat with their fingers either.

 

She noticed that Annika chewed her food precisely and did not bolt it down. She also took small amounts onto her fork. This was a lot different from when she was under the influence of Pon Farr. Annika had wolfed her food down and didn’t mind using her fingers. B’Elanna took Annika’s lead and cut her food in small amounts to eat.

 

Annika swallowed and took a drink of her tea, before saying, “This is all very good.”

 

“Thank you.” B’Elanna didn’t want to point out that she replicated it from the selection in the replicator. After all, wasn’t it the thought that counted?

 

They were silent as they ate, B’Elanna searching for something to say. They couldn’t very well talk about the weather since they were on a starship. She decided to go for the mundane. “How are things going? Are you catching up on ship’s business?”

 

“Yes. In a few more days, I will resume my role as captain. How is engineering?”

 

“Everything checks out. Of course, with Stron and Denal running things while I was away, I didn’t expect otherwise. You hired a good engineering crew.”

 

Annika nodded, “I am glad you approve.”

 

B’Elanna said, “You know, I looked over the information on the failure of the multiphase inverter and I think I can come up with a circuit breaker of some sort to prevent an overload if another diode fails.”

 

“What do you propose?”

 

For the next thirty minutes, they discussed B’Elanna’s ideas. B’Elanna could see that Annika was into the conversation as her voice and facial expressions showed a certain amount of heightened animation.

 

B’Elanna held her napkin up to her mouth to hide her smile as she recalled discussing the technical aspects of the transwarp coil and inverter several weeks back in Annika’s office.

 

‘Yep. Just talk tekkie to her and you’ll do just fine. Besides, you like to talk tekkie, too.’

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER FOUR

 

xxx

 

Jude nudged B’Elanna on the shoulder and whispered, “Well, well. That’s a sight I seldom see: Nick coming to dine in the mess hall.” She smirked and added facetiously, “There must be something…yummy…on the menu she wants to--”

 

B’Elanna bumped her knee sharply against Jude’s leg and hissed low, “Shut up.”

 

Jude snickered, noticing B’Elanna follow Annika with her eyes as she walked over to the mess hall replicator to place her order.

 

B’Elanna looked across at Paris and Jenkins, and said, “You guys move over a seat. Your boss will be taking lunch with us.”

 

Tom looked up surprised, and then grinned, but both he and Jenkins moved over.

 

Last night, after dinner, she and Annika had agreed to meet for lunch today in the mess hall. And tonight, after their duty shift, Annika had asked her, almost shyly, to go to Sandrine’s for dinner.

 

B’Elanna was looking forward to tonight and the time she would spend with Annika at Sandrine’s. Come to think of it, she wouldn’t care where they spent time together… only that they were together.

 

Annika took her seat next to Tom and across from B’Elanna. She looked briefly at B’Elanna with a pleased expression, which turned into a shy smile when she saw that B’Elanna was smiling at her.

 

This did not escape Jude’s notice, but she decided she would be on her best behavior and curtail her teasing. It was a sacrifice, for sure, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t fish for information and set the stage for making sure these two were on the right path. “Anybody for a game of poker tonight?” she asked innocently.

 

“I’m game. How about you Jenkins?” Tom said.

 

“Sure. It’s been awhile.”

 

“I have other plans,” said B’Elanna.

 

“How about you, Nick?” Jude asked.

 

“I have other plans as well,” she said and glanced at B’Elanna.

 

Jude shrugged and smoothly said, “Oh, okay. How about tomorrow night?” Jude surmised that the ‘other plans’ involved each other from the look Annika gave B’Elanna. She was dying to know what other plans, but didn’t want to say anything in front of the others. She would try and wheedle the information from Annika later.

 

B’Elanna looked at Annika questioningly but Annika’s expression was back to its usual blandness.

 

Tom said to Annika, “You play poker? Have you been holding out on us Captain?”

 

“I have played with Jude in the past.”

 

Tom looked at Jude and asked, “She any good?”

 

Jude replied with a straight face, “Passable.”

 

“Come on, Captain. Give us a game and let’s see what ‘stuff’ you’re made of,” Tom cajoled.

 

B’Elanna was curious to know how good of a player Annika was. She looked at Annika and said with a smirk, “I’m pretty good at reading these losers and will give you tips on their little idiosyncrasies that will let you know if they’re bluffing, losing, or holding a winning hand.”

 

Jenkins, who thought of himself as a cardsharp, said, “Captain. Don’t listen to her. She couldn’t read a five foot lighted sign pointing to the nearest exit without an interpreter.”

 

With a smirk tugging at the corners of her lips, Annika said, “I believe the correct term is…deal me in.”

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER FIVE

 

xxx

 

The waiter brought their order and placed it on the table. Annika placed her napkin on her lap, looked over her plate of mussels in butter sauce on a bed of linguini, and let the steam tickle her nose as she lightly inhaled the aroma. She picked up her fork and began to eat.

 

B’Elanna was seated across from her enjoying a plate of shrimp scampi. “Hmm, this is pretty good.”

 

Annika looked at her and said, “Mine is as well.” She let her glance linger on B‘Elanna for a moment, noticing how the gold light from the table candle cast shadows across her features, highlighting the ridges on her forehead. Annika thought them becoming. They suited B’Elanna well. Her hair had a reddish cast in the firelight. She wore a cable knit top that was colored on the right side a slate blue and the left was red running diagonal from the shoulder down to the left part of the waist. Her trousers were navy blue.

 

B’Elanna looked up and caught her staring; her eyes dark pools in the subdued lighting and Annika caught her breath, a memory emerging of those eyes during Pon Farr, pulling her down into their depths. She returned her attention back to her dish and resumed eating.

 

There were several other crewmembers in Sandrine’s as well. A few were eating and conversing at various tables, or sitting at the bar drinking and socializing. They had, of course, noticed the two women, but did not intrude on their time together, perhaps thinking they were still in the honeymoon stage and wished to be alone.

 

Jude had dropped by Annika’s office after lunch and inquired what she and B’Elanna had planned for that night. Annika had informed her, and then saw Jude give that satisfied smile she had when things were going her way.

 

Annika immediately became suspicious and informed her she was not to show up and ‘spy’ on them.

 

Jude had looked at her as if she were surprised and hurt by the comment. This let Annika know immediately that Jude had planned to do just that.

 

Annika decided to use a little subtlety of her own and told Jude if she showed up at Sandrine’s she would terminate the date immediately and return to her quarters.

 

Jude gave in and promised she would not show up. But she made Annika promise that she would give her details on what they did on their ‘date’.

 

Jude had also given her ideas on what to wear and helped her pick out the articles of clothing. She had to admit that the three quarter sleeve pink sweater with the small pearl buttons brought out the color in her cheeks and highlighted her hair. Jude had put her hair in a French braid for her and replicated a pair of square, black onyx ear studs. Her skirt was black, form fitting and to mid knee. She wore a black pair of patent leather pumps with a short heel, conscious that she was a good four inches taller than B’Elanna was and did not want to ‘tower’ over her.

 

She knew she had made the right choice in attire, or rather, Jude had made the right choice, when she saw B’Elanna look her over appreciatively and then tell her she looked very nice. In fact, she had caught B’Elanna looking her over several times with what seemed to be a look of approval. Of course, she herself was doing the same amount of admiring of B’Elanna.

 

They kept their dinner conversation on the safe topic of Raven’s performance, and discussed the Valhalla project and its future, over dessert.

 

Annika chose a hot apple pie a la mode and B’Elanna chose a Klingon honey cake.

 

After dessert, Annika looked at B’Elanna and said, “I would like for you to stay on as Raven’s Chief Engineer. I know we agreed to terminate the contract on our return to Vulcan. I regret my actions. In my defense, I was acting under duress caused by my…condition.”

 

“I understand. At least you had an excuse for your behavior. I don’t have one for mine and I apologize for my rudeness.” She smiled then and said, “As for the position as Raven’s Chief Engineer, I accept. I’m looking forward to working on the Valhalla project, too. I think we can work well together on that.”

 

Annika smiled shyly and said, “I agree. We will make a good team.”

 

B’Elanna beamed and said, “Yes, I think we will make a very good team.”

 

She was speaking more from her heart and the team she had in mind did not only relate to Raven or the Valhalla Project.

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER SIX

 

xxx

 

Annika sniffed the contents of her mug and tentatively took a sip, immediately making a ‘yuck’ face.

 

B’Elanna laughed and said, “Hey, you’re the one who wanted to know what blood wine tasted like.”

 

Annika glanced up at B’Elanna and said, “It is obviously an acquired taste.”

 

B’Elanna snickered and said, “Obviously. Wait right here and I’ll get you an ale. I know they have a Vulcan variety programmed into the replicator.” She made her way to the bar, Annika watching her go. B’Elanna was lucky at poker tonight and said she would treat her to a drink at Sandrine’s. This had been their second poker game with the ‘gang’, as B’Elanna called her poker playing buddies.

 

Annika had held even both times. Tom Paris had been lucky that first night a week ago and B’Elanna got her credits back from that loss and a little more tonight.

 

Annika found herself enjoying the back and forth of barbs and veiled insults between the players. Especially between B’Elanna and Jude. B’Elanna and Jude were both experts at innuendo, and both had a wicked sense of humor, knowing just the right moment to hit. You could never take what either was saying at face value, as an innocent word or sentence often held an entirely opposite meaning.

 

She had enjoyed herself and the other players seemed relaxed around her. There had even been some teasing at her expense. She did not take offense as it was not vicious or intended to belittle. She had even managed to get in a few hits of her own. There were also a few off color jokes. She felt herself blushing at many of them, but no one commented on this.

 

They would be home in another week and she had every intention to host a poker night at her, and now B’Elanna’s, home.

 

B’Elanna returned with a mug of ale and a large platter with strips of something fried. She placed the mug of ale in front of Annika, and the platter in the middle of the table. She slid the mug of blood wine to her side and took her seat.

 

B‘Elanna indicated the platter with a slight movement of her head and said with a straight face, “Fried gagh. Help yourself,” watching with amusement as Annika regarded the platter with trepidation, before she busted out laughing and said, “I’m teasing. It’s calamari. Oh, I forgot to get a fork, I‘ll go get one.”

 

Annika picked one of the pieces up with her fingers and said, “A fork is unnecessary.” She bit into it and after a few chews said, “Very good.”

 

B’Elanna followed suit and discovered it was quite tasty for replicated food.

 

When they finished with the platter of food, Annika, with a distinct look of distaste, said, “Gagh. I thought that it is consumed raw and while still living.”

 

B‘Elanna could swear Annika almost shuddered when saying this. She replied, “It is. The more alive the serpent worm, the more fight they have when you bite them, and the juicier they are. There are over fifty varieties of serpent worms, you know.”

 

“Ah…I did not know. Do you consume this particular…food item?” This was said in a distinct voice of distaste as well as an accompanying look.

 

“Gagh is not one of my favorites.”

 

Annika’s expression was decidedly one of relief and B’Elanna continued, “In fact, most Klingon food is not at the top of my list of favorites. It tends to disagree with my digestive system, which I think I inherited from my father. And I prefer my food, especially meat, cooked to some degree. And preferably not alive.”

 

A slight smile touched the corners of Annika’s mouth and she said, “Thank you for informing me of that fact. I would not want to prepare you a traditional Klingon dish and have it not appreciated.”

 

B’Elanna smiled, more pleased at the thought that Annika would prepare food for her than what she would prepare. Then again, if she read Annika’s expression right, the woman was more than likely relieved that she wouldn’t have to prepare Klingon food, especially gagh. B’Elanna, her eyes bright, said, “I would appreciate anything you prepare.”

 

“We shall see.”

 

“Of course, I’m not much of a cook from scratch. If it weren’t for a replicator I would go hungry.”

 

“I have been spoiled by Jude’s culinary abilities and do have an appreciation for food prepared from raw ingredients.”

 

“Uh oh, is that a hint that I should learn to cook from scratch?”

 

“Not at all. I do expect you do learn one culinary ability.”

 

“Oh?”

 

“The comm number for T’Olnie’s.”

 

B’Elanna chuckled. “And they deliver.”

 

“Indeed,” Annika said with a smirk and a twinkle in her eyes.

 

xxx

 

Over the next week everything ran smoothly and routinely aboard Raven, Annika once again acting in her capacity as captain.

 

She had returned to her, or their quarters, on several nights and often found dinner waiting for her. It was dishes that she liked and she surmised that B’Elanna had consulted with Jude on her favorites. For her part, she would prepare breakfast for B’Elanna, finding that it pleased her to see the apparent approving smiles and looks on B’Elanna’s face at her efforts.

 

They kept their conversation to safe topics of discussions related to engineering, physics, and other related topics.

 

On two nights over the past week, they were invited to Jude and Stron‘s quarters for a game of Cosmonopoly, which was based on a centuries old Earth game called Monopoly, but you bought different planets to develop, as well as Starship lines.

 

She was once more entertained by Jude and B’Elanna’s fencing matches of barbs and veiled insults. That the two women enjoyed this ‘fencing’ was evident and Annika could sense that B’Elanna liked Jude. She had known Jude a long time and knew that by the tone of Jude’s teasing that she liked B’Elanna. It was important to her that these two had a mutual amiability for each other. They would be home in another two days and she hoped that this amiability would extend to their off ship time. She saw no reason why it would not since she and Jude saw a lot of each other, almost on a daily basis, and B’Elanna was now a part of Annika’s life. For how long, she was not certain, and this caused her a certain feeling of melancholy.

 

She hoped that in the coming weeks their relationship would both strengthen and move on to a more ‘intimate’ level. If it did not, she was certain they would always remain friends. However, she found herself wishing for the former. She was developing feelings for B’Elanna that she knew was more than friendship. She could not say if this was love, as she had never been in love. She looked forward to her interactions with B’Elanna and took pleasure in pleasing her: Seeing her smile when she interacted with her. B’Elanna made her feel ‘warm’ and often breathless with a fluttering in her chest and stomach.

 

That the physical attraction was there was apparent. She recalled ‘the dream’, one of many she had since Pon Farr, that she had had last night in which she and B’Elanna were involved in making love. She had even had an orgasm that had awoken her enough to use her hand to stimulate herself to another more intense one.

 

But would she know when it was time to escalate their relationship to include the physical? She did not want to initiate this stage prematurely. Perhaps she should let B’Elanna make that decision.

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER SEVEN

 

xxx

 

Raven slipped into her docking port at the station and the crew started to disembark. Annika said her farewells to the bridge crew and went to her ready room to retrieve some of her PADDs. She put these in a special bag and hung it around her shoulders, before departing to her to her quarters to retrieve some of her suitcases that she had packed last night. She would leave some of her articles of clothing and toiletries for her next trip, whenever that may be. She was hoping in the next three or four months, when they had finished with the modifications on the inverter and fabricated a new transwarp coil.

 

B’Elanna was going to stay a few more hours on Raven to make sure the ship’s systems were shut down properly. She would then disembark and take her luggage from Raven to Annika’s home. She would arrange in the next couple of days to retrieve more clothing and items from her own residence to move to Annika’s place.

 

Annika had given everyone the next two weeks off. She had discussed with B’Elanna showing her some of the sites on Vulcan. B’Elanna had not been on Vulcan long enough to visit any of the places of interests, and Annika was looking forward to doing this as it had been awhile since she had been to many of these places.

 

Over the last three weeks she had developed a definite ‘liking’ for B‘Elanna as a person. She was not only intelligent and had an intensive knowledge of engineering, but in addition, she had interests in many of the concepts and scientific topics that Annika had and could readily discuss them. Some of her ideas were innovative and Annika saw applications for many of them.

 

She was also an excellent chess player and while Annika had won most games, B’Elanna had played her to a stalemate two times. It was just a matter of time before she would be able to predict Annika’s moves, expand on her own, and beat her.

 

Annika would give her the spare bedroom, which was being used as an office. She would only need to move her PADDs and some of her files and computer to her bedroom.

 

She retrieved her suitcase and garment bag and walked down the corridor to where the main exit was located and down the umbilical that attached she ship to the station. She nodded to one of her security officers who stood right outside the entrance to where the umbilical was attached.

 

She walked down the large corridor that was busy with the traffic of passengers and the crews of other ships. She came to one of the transport stations, and gave the attendant her destination.

 

She stepped onto the pad and felt the slight tingling sensation of her molecules dissolving. Her next view was an attendant at the Institute’s transporter station.

 

“Welcome home, Dr. Hansen. I have called a staff aero-car to pick you up.”

 

“Thank you.” She nodded. She would go home and prepare the extra bedroom for B’Elanna. This would be her home, also. Perhaps, for a very long time.

 

xxx

 

B’Elanna placed her two large suitcases in front of the door and rang the chime. She heard the door click and it opened.

 

Annika was waiting in the foyer, her mouth quirked in a small smile and she greeted B’Elanna with, “Come in. Do you need help carrying your luggage?”

 

“I’m fine. Just show me where to put this.”

 

“This way.” She led B’Elanna through a large living room that had a sofa, two easy chairs, and a coffee table in front of the sofa. A desk against one wall held a comm unit. The floors were of a blonde wood and the walls were off white with fabric hangings and a few prints.

 

B’Elanna saw a door that lead to a dining room and a kitchen area with a bar and stools. They went down a short hallway and through a door on the left, and into a medium sized bedroom with a double bed, made up with a coverlet of various shades of pink and rose. There were two nightstands on each side of the bed. In one corner was a desk and chair, and next to them was a double closet. The walls were paneled in wood that matched the floor and it too had various tasteful wall hangings. The large window on the far wall had curtains that matched the coverlet.

 

“If you will put your luggage down, I will show you the rest of the house and where everything is located.”

 

B’Elanna did so and followed Annika out of the room and a short walk down the hall. She was shown the large bathroom that contained a hydro shower as well as a sonic shower and large garden tub.

 

There was an extra door leading out of the bathroom and into another bedroom. This was Annika’s bedroom. It was large and had a queen-sized bed and the color scheme was in cream and various shades of blue.

 

B’Elanna noticed that a large piece of art on one wall was a snow scene with mountains that depicted, she was sure, a mountain range on Earth. Other decorations included a string instrument hanging on one wall, and ceramic wall pieces.

 

Annika led her back out and into the kitchen, and said, “It is almost time for dinner. I can prepare something if you like.”

 

“You fixed dinner last night. I think it only fair for me to do it tonight. Just show me the replicator and how you have it set up and I can start.” She added, “What do you feel like eating?”

 

“I am not sure. While I am hungry, there is nothing that appeals to me. What do you desire?”

 

B’Elanna smiled and said, “Hmmm. Something on the hot and spicy side. I know what you mean when you say nothing sounds appealing.” She thought for a moment and said, “I know. Why don’t we order from that restaurant that you said delivers? I haven’t tried many Vulcan dishes and I understand that they have some hot and spicy foods. I think I might like to try that…if that’s okay.”

 

“If that is what you wish,” Annika said with a slight smile. B’Elanna had noticed that she smiled that little smile a lot lately. She would like to think that she was the cause of that.

 

“You can order for me. I have very little exposure to Vulcan food.”

 

“I will order the sautéed and fried vegetable platter as well as the grain patties and spiced macca root balls. This is a Vulcan restaurant and they do not serve meat. They do serve seafood if you would like to order a dish.”

 

“No. Not this time. I’ll try what you order.”

 

Annika went to the comm unit in the living room and B’Elanna followed, where she took a seat on the sofa between a couple of throw cushions. She saw that the low coffee table held various PADDs on them and picked up one, flicking it on, expecting it to be some publication or magazine on physics or advanced technology. Her eyes popped out of her head when it displayed a picture of a romance novel cover which portrayed an auburn haired woman in a North American cowboy outfit, complete with hat, embracing and looking passionately into the eyes of a dark haired and dark eyed Native American woman wearing a traditional fringed buckskin dress. The title was, PRAIRIE ROSE, and was a lesbian romance set in the ancient days of the North American Old West.

 

‘Kahless! I would have never thought she’d be into this sort of stuff. Not tekkie at all. No indeedie. This just shows me how much I have to learn about her.’

 

B’Elanna read the synopsis and thought, ‘Hmmm. I wonder if she would mind if I borrowed this.’

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER EIGHT

 

xxx

 

B’Elanna woke up the next morning to the fresh the aroma of raktajino and other delicious smells. She looked around in the low lighting and realized the light source was coming from a window and not the artificial lighting of a starship.

 

She threw back the covers and slid out of bed, sliding her feet into a fluffy pair of blue slippers, and put on her blue fluffy bathrobe. She went to the small divinity, picked up the brush, and ran it through her hair, making sure she at least looked presentable.

 

She went to the bathroom, did what was necessary, and washed her hands and face, before walking out to the kitchen where she saw Annika sitting at the kitchen bar eating breakfast.

 

Annika looked up, smiled shyly, and said, “Good morning. I have prepared breakfast for you. It is in the stasis container by the replicator.”

 

B‘Elanna smiled and said, “Thanks.” It made her feel warm inside to know that Annika did this for her. She would have to do something similar.

 

She lifted the lid on the stasis container and removed a steaming plate containing a ranch omelet, hash browns, a large biscuit, and a cup of raktajino.

 

Taking it over to the bar, she placed it on the bar top and took the stool next to Annika. “This looks really good." She took a bite of her eggs and said. “Umm, tastes good, too."

 

“I am glad you approve. Jude programmed that selection into the replicator, as she has many selections. While it is not as ‘tasty’ as her recipes from raw materials, it is far better than most replicated fare.”

 

“I agree.” B’Elanna noticed that Annika had the same thing, except tea in place of the raktajino. She didn’t know if Annika had ever sampled raktajino but thought there was a good chance that she did and had not liked it. In fact, she noticed that Annika never replicated coffee of any kind, preferring tea, and fruit juices to drink.

 

Annika said, “Jude left a message informing me that she and Stron would help us move your belongings to my…our home.”

 

“There’s not much to move. Just a few more clothes and items like that, as well as a box of PADDs and a few knickknacks.”

 

“She also suggested that after we move everything here she would prepare us a lunch.”

 

B’Elanna smiled, “You’ve mentioned several times that she’s an excellent cook, or should I say, chef.”

 

“She is. It is her intention of one day opening a restaurant, or catering service, after she retires.”

 

B’Elanna smirked and said, “Really? You know, come to think of it, I have a lot more stuff than I thought. And that box of PADDs will need at least Stron’s Vulcan’s strength to lift and carry.”

 

Annika lifted her left eyebrow and said with a small smirk, “Indeed. I am sure that with the exertion of moving we will need to replenish our energy with food.”

 

B’Elanna snickered and added, “Can’t let our electrolytes get to low.”

 

She noticed that Annika had a slight smile tugging at the corners of her mouth when she said, “No. We cannot.”

 

xxx

 

“You know, your birthday is coming up in nine days?” Jude said to Annika who was seated across the dining room table from her. They had finished moving B’Elanna’s belongings and were eating Jude’s homemade potato salad and fried chicken.

 

“Yes. I am aware of that fact. And as usual, I suppose you have my birthday itinerary planned.”

 

“You know it, kiddo.” She looked at B’Elanna and said, “Nick would let the day pass without notice if I didn’t insist that she celebrate it somehow.”

 

She turned back to Annika and said facetiously, “I know you’re going to hate me for this, but this year…I’m not giving you a party.”

 

Annika blinked in surprise and Jude continued, “No. I decided to do something a little different. I’ve planned for a picnic at Hasgar Canyon with a raft ride down the Hasgar River. It‘ll be just me, you, B‘Elanna, and Stron.”

 

Jude decided to forego a party this year due to the fact that B’Elanna would be surrounded by people she really didn’t know and might feel uneasy. Besides, Voncel had always helped Jude with the party preparations since she and Annika became engaged and this could cause some awkwardness if she were invited, and if she wasn‘t.

 

Annika replied, “While I will enjoy the picnic and the scenery, I will not raft down the Hasgar River.”

 

“We’ll do the slow and scenic tour and won’t do the white water one.” Annika looked at her with doubt, causing Jude to cross her heart and say emphatically, “I swear, no whitewater.”

 

Annika turned to B’Elanna and lifted her brow and asked, “Is this acceptable to you?”

 

Jude looked at Stron, opening her eyes in wide surprise that Annika would defer to B’Elanna. Stron raised his brow slightly that showed, he too, was surprised.

 

B’Elanna grinned and said, “Hey, It’s your birthday. I’m game for anything you want to do. The raft trip sounds like fun and I love picnics. Especially if Jude is gonna do the food.”

 

“Of course,” Jude replied.

 

“Very well. It does sound fun,” Annika agreed.

 

B’Elanna looked at Jude and motioned toward the kitchen with a slight movement of her head, smoothly saying, “I think I’ll get me something to drink. Anyone want anything?”

 

“A hot tea for me, please,” Stron said.

 

“Nothing for me,” Annika said.

 

“I’ll help,” Jude said and stood up, following B’Elanna to the kitchen.

 

Once in the kitchen B‘Elanna turned to Jude and said, “Okay. I‘ll need the address for that place to get strawberries and you have to give me hints on a present.”

 

“Sure thing. I’ll help you with the ordering. I’m going shopping tomorrow so why don’t you go with me and we can pick out a present and some things for you to start cooking from scratch. In fact, why don’t we pick out the ingredients for spaghetti and you can fix it for her tomorrow night.”

 

“Okay. What do I tell her about where I’m going tomorrow?”

 

Jude chuckled and facetiously said, “Boy, how ‘married’ you are having to tell your wife where you’re going.”

 

B‘Elanna gave her a hard look and said, “I ‘am’ married. Don’t you tell Stron where you’re going?”

 

“Point taken. Just tell her the truth: You have to run errands and will be back after lunch.” Jude smirked and continued, “You’re not some Orion love slave with a master that you have to get permission from to leave the bedroom. Of course, being Nick’s ‘love slave’ could have a certain appeal.”

 

B‘Elanna blushed and hit Jude on the arm while thinking, ‘In my dreams.’

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER NINE

 

xxx

 

Erin was a woman with a mission. Or rather, a mother with a mission. She could understand fully why Annika had to take a mate. That she was a Klingon was disturbing. Even more disturbing was the fact that her daughter had intentions of exploring a permanent relationship with this…person.

 

Her daughter had returned home three days ago, while she was speaking at a seminar on Earth. She had just returned home last night, thinking now was the perfect time to direct her daughter into rectifying this…situation. In fact, she had already made inquiries this morning into starting to do just that.

 

Voncel had relayed what Annika had told her. And that Voncel was dismayed by Annika’s intent to explore a permanent relationship with this woman, was obvious.

 

Erin had become very proficient in reading the subtle voice changes and facial expressions in Vulcans. She was married to one for almost twenty years, and was friends with many more, which led her to see for herself that no matter how logical Vulcans were, and how controlled they were, they still possessed underlying emotions.

 

Erin used Vulcan directness when she asked Voncel if she still wanted Annika as her mate. Voncel had told her yes, if Annika were agreeable, she would still want her as a mate.

 

She pushed the chime on Annika’s door and waited. The door opened and Annika greeted her with a nod and a smile. “Mother.”

 

 Erin hugged her daughter for a moment and rubbed her back affectionately, before saying, “I’m glad you’re back, I‘ve missed you.” She stepped back and searched her daughter’s face and eyes.

 

Through their hug, Annika could sense the sincerity of her words but also picked up a disturbance in her mother’s emotions. To cover her own unsettled feelings at this revelation she quickly said, “I am glad to be back. Would you like something to drink? I was just about to prepare tea.”

 

“That would be nice.” She followed Annika into the kitchen and took a stool at the kitchen bar, watching her daughter prepare tea in the traditional way, by putting a tea pot of water on the small stovetop to heat.

 

Annika retrieved two cups, saucers, and two bags of tea and placed one in each cup. Neither one took cream or sugar.

 

Erin looked around her and listened. There was no indication anyone else was in the house. Just to make sure she asked, “Where is your…friend?”

 

Annika stood at the bar, regarding her mother for a moment, before saying, “By friend I infer you to mean my wife, B‘Elanna?”

 

Erin winced at the word wife, and said in surprise, “Wife?”

 

“Yes, wife. We are married according to Vulcan law. Verias performed the ceremony.”

 

Erin took a deep breath and said, “I see." She really didn’t see at all. To take this woman on a temporary basis as a mate was one thing, but legally….

 

She was just about to inquire why her daughter would do such a thing when Annika said, “B‘Elanna is on an errand.”

 

Erin was relieved that Annika was alone and she could discuss the main subject with only her daughter. “I’m sorry that this occurred while you were away. But, I’m glad that there was a successful resolution.”

 

Annika nodded. “I was fortunate.” She then retrieved the hot pot of water and poured it over the tea bags.

 

Erin shifted uncomfortably in her seat for a moment and said, “Voncel informs me that you have bonded with…this woman. She also informed me that you wish to explore the possibility of staying in a relationship with her.”

 

“Yes,” Annika said and gave her mother a measuring look before she added, “Both B’Elanna and I have agreed to pursue this course of action.”

 

Erin sighed and said, “I…see.” She took a sip of her tea.

 

Annika lifted her eyebrows and said, “You do not approve.”

 

“No. I don’t. Have you thought about the cultural differences here? She is, after all, a Klingon.”

 

“To be precise, she is half Klingon and half Human. Her Klingon nature does not present a problem. Her Klingon heritage has imbued her with a code of honor. She also possesses the qualities of sacrifice for the greater good, compassion, and kindness.”

 

“Voncel has these qualities. And honor as well.”

 

Annika drew her head back and blinked in both confusion and surprise, before replying, “Yes. I do not disagree.”

 

“Voncel would make a better ‘wife’ for you.”

 

“In your opinion. You have not met B’Elanna and cannot make that judgment.” She regarded her mother for a moment and said, “Why are we discussing Voncel? She no longer has a vested interest in this, Mother.”

 

“You’re wrong, Annika. Voncel is very much involved in this. She still harbors feelings for you. She would still very much like you for her mate.”

 

“That is out of the question. I am bonded with another. While Voncel has always regarded me warmly, it is nothing more than friendship. Voncel will have no problems finding another who is willing to be her mate.”

 

Erin said testily, “Don’t be a fool, Annika. This bond you have with this…person…there are ways to dissolve it. I have already contacted the Vulcan Medical Institute to inquire about the availability of a qualified melder to do a p’pil’lay. In fact, T’Pai is still with the institute and can perform it. You remember her from the problems you had several years ago with that…mind meld. She is familiar with your neural-cortical patterns--”

 

“Mother! No! You will not interfere in this. This is between my wife and me,” Annika said angrily, her face flushed.

 

Erin regarded her with shock, saying, “Listen to you, Annika. The anger. I have not heard that in years. It is apparent that your bond with this Klingon has allowed her emotions to influence your own. She is a danger to you, Annika. You should put distance between the two of you, now, before you descend into that state of emotional imbalance that you had when your mind was first altered. Before you become just as illogical and as savage as a Klingon.”

 

Annika saw red, replying with barely controlled rage, “You shall leave my home, Mother! You shall desist in your attempts to interfere in my life! You are not welcome here until such time that you agree to never broach the subject of what occurred in the past, and you agree not to interfere in my life.”

 

Erin was becoming angry herself, and vehemently said, “Go ahead and throw your life away on this…savage! Apparently, you must be thinking with your hormones and not your head!”

 

“What’s going on here?” said a concerned and forceful voice from the kitchen doorway.

 

Both women looked up to see B’Elanna regarding them curiously.

 

Annika sighed and said stiffly, “B’Elanna, I would like for you to meet my mother, Erin.” She turned to her mother and said pointedly, “Mother, this is my ‘wife’, B’Elanna.”

 

B’Elanna regarded the obviously embarrassed and angry older woman for a moment before nodding and walking past her to put her grocery bag on the counter. She then went and stood beside Annika, crossed her arms over her chest and said to Erin in a remarkably calm voice, “I couldn’t help but overhear your opinion that your daughter is throwing her life away regarding her relationship with me…on a savage. Were I a …savage…I would give you a thrashing and then throw you bodily out of ‘our’ home for your insult to me and my wife.”

 

Erin recovered and glared at B’Elanna angrily, and said, “While I appreciate what you have done for my daughter, surely you must agree that you are not suited to be her mate.”

 

B‘Elanna felt her ire rise but then reasoned, ‘Don’t justify her opinion of you.’

 

Before she could answer, Annika said angrily, “Mother, leave!”

 

B’Elanna placed her hand on her wife’s shoulder, feeling her anger, but did not let it escalate her own. She said calmly but firmly, “I know you are concerned for your daughter. But this is an issue that involves Annika and me. I think it would be a good idea for you to stay out of this. Now, my wife has requested that you leave our home. I think you need to go now.”

 

Annika could feel B’Elanna’s controlled anger and her concern. She put her arm around B’Elanna’s shoulder and her wife slipped her arm around Annika’s waist.

 

Erin looked pointedly at the two, turned, and flounced out.

 

B’Elanna kept her arm around Annika’s waist, feeling both her anger and hurt. B’Elanna hugged her for a moment and then disengaged her hold. “I’m sorry.”

 

Annika had felt comforted by her concern and said, “You have nothing to be sorry for. She should apologize to you…to us both.”

 

“She’s concerned, that’s all. Give her some time and I’m sure she’ll see she’s wrong.”

 

“You do not know my mother. She is seldom wrong.”

 

B’Elanna smiled wryly and said, “Sounds like you’re talking about my mother. Besides, it’s a mother thing. They think they always know what’s good for their children, even when those children are adults. Now, I have a surprise for you. I‘m preparing something special for dinner tonight and I don’t want you around while I do it. Why don‘t you go and…do something.”

 

“Do you need assistance?”

 

B’Elanna smirked, “It wouldn’t be a surprise then, would it? I want you to stay out of the kitchen until I say it’s okay for you to come in. You can do that can’t you?”

 

Annika nodded and smiled shyly. “I shall meditate in my room and perhaps read.”

 

“I’ll call you when dinner is ready.” B’Elanna watched Annika leave, touched by that little shy smile and she smiled herself.

 

She still had a smile on her face as she took the ingredients out of the bag, and also a smaller bag that contained a birthday gift she had bought for Annika. This she took to her bedroom, removed a small blue velvet box from the bag, and placed it in the drawer of her nightstand.

 

On the way back to the kitchen, she smelled the scent of meditation candles wafting from Annika’s room. She hoped they would mask the smell of what she was about to prepare. She did want to surprise Annika.

 

She went back to the kitchen and started to prepare dinner. Jude said that the tomato sauce should simmer all day but gave her some shortcuts that would provide a suitable sauce in a couple of hours.

 

She thought of the conversation she had heard between Annika and her mother. She had come in through the front door and heard voices in the kitchen, and stopped in the dining room when she realized that she was a part of the conversation.

 

It made her heart leap with joy to hear Annika tell Erin, “This is between my wife and me,” and to introduce her as “My ‘wife’ B’Elanna.” B’Elanna grinned and said to herself, “Her wife. My wife. Mine.”

 

xxx

 

Annika sat on the sofa, beside B’Elanna, watching the credits roll by on the twenty by sixteen inch vid-view screen projected above the coffee table.

 

After dinner, she had suggested that they watch the adventure vid, Brisbane Cooper and The Pirates of Orion, that Jude had lent her. She had never seen this vid, though B’Elanna had said she saw it several years back and wouldn’t mind seeing it again.

 

She had enjoyed the dinner B’Elanna had prepared, apparently from Jude’s recipe for spaghetti with tomato and mushroom sauce. For dessert was a brownie a la mode. The fact that B’Elanna would do this for her, touched her and made her feel ‘special’. This act showed that B’Elanna cared; that she had strong feelings for her, did it not?

 

She would long remember the bright smile B’Elanna gave her when she complimented her on the dinner and how much she enjoyed it. She was determined to prepare a traditional Mexican dish for B’Elanna. She would consult with Jude on the preparation.

 

“Well, what did you think?” asked B’Elanna.

 

“It was enjoyable, though unbelievable in certain scenes. Especially in the scene when Brisbane ejects out of the ship’s torpedo tube and onto the hull of the pirate ship, while both ships are traveling at warp nine.”

 

B’Elanna chortled, “Yeah, but I think that‘s part of the appeal. The special effects were great. It was hard not to believe that what you were seeing couldn’t be done in ‘real’ life. In fact, I remember hearing that right after the vid came out, there was an outbreak across the Federation of crazy people attempting to do that scene where Princess Melara is on her aero-cycle and jumps it across that canyon. I think a few people got themselves killed.”

 

Annika replied, “How Unfortunate.” She paused, then continued, “Perhaps not, if it removed them from the gene pool.”

 

B’Elanna looked at her with surprise, then with mock shock, and said facetiously, “Why Annika, shame on you, that’s not a very charitable thing to say. When you were a kid, didn’t you attempt to do any of those crazy things you saw on the vids?”

 

Annika replied, “No. I knew that what I saw was not reality…and illogical.” She looked at B’Elanna and raised her left eyebrow. “Did you?”

 

B’Elanna smiled sheepishly and said, “Me? Why would you think that?”

 

Annika smirked slightly and said, “I shall be ‘charitable’ and infer that you did not since you appear to be in good health and have all of your faculties.”

 

“I guess my contribution to the gene pool will be acceptable, huh?” B’Elanna realized what she said and blushed.

 

Annika looked at her intently and inquired, “Do you wish to have children?”

 

B’Elanna shrugged nervously and looked away from Annika and said, “Well, I don’t have any concrete plans, but, yeah, someday.” She turned back to Annika and asked, “You?”

 

Annika kept her eyes on B’Elanna and said, “Like you, I do not have concrete plans, but I have considered the possibility and have found it is one that appeals to me.” She had a sudden vision of B’Elanna smiling at her and holding a little dark haired girl with small ridges on her forehead. She felt her heart skip a beat and looked away from B’Elanna, feeling her face flush.

 

B’Elanna swallowed, a scene popping into her mind of Annika holding a little blonde haired girl with little ridges on her forehead. She licked her lips nervously and said, “Well, that’s for the future.” To change the subject she said, “You said something about taking me for some sightseeing tomorrow to some ancient ruins. Tell me more about them.”

 

Annika begin to describe some of the attractions for tomorrow’s planned trip. Both women anticipating not just the tour, but spending time together doing something they would enjoy.

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER TEN

 

xxx

 

“Listen, Erin. You’re coming to the wrong person with your complaints about Nick and B’Elanna. I happen to think that it’s a good match. If you can’t approve of their relationship, then I suggest you stay out of their business,” Jude said firmly.

 

“How can you say that? It’s obvious that this woman has already influenced Annika’s emotions through their bond. Annika is in danger here of losing her emotional control. This woman exerts an unhealthy influence on her.”

 

Jude looked at Erin in both disbelief and a measure of disgust, which reflected in her voice when she said, “Emotional control? Too much damn control and that’s what’s unhealthy. And has been for years. If anything, B’Elanna’s ‘normal’ emotional response to living life is returning to Nick some measure of what it means to be Human. Yes, Human.

 

“Or have you forgotten that she is Human. Have you forgotten that before that…imprinting, she had normal Human responses and emotions? If anything, her mind melding with B’Elanna and subsequent bonding is starting to return her to something approaching normal emotional responses.”

 

She saw Erin shake her head in denial.

 

Jude snorted disparagingly and continued, “It is my hope that through the bond with B’Elanna, she continues to discover that part of her that was lost. I think it will make her a lot happier. Yes, happy and maybe find some contentment in her life.”

 

Erin said in disbelief,  “Are you blind? Don’t you care for Annika? This woman isn’t Human. She’s a Klingon! A savage! Volatile, undisciplined, contentious, and violent. You didn’t see what I saw: Annika becoming angry and asking me to leave her home. It‘s not healthy. She must--”

 

Jude rolled her eyes and said sarcastically, “Yes? I wonder why Nick was angry. You‘re making me angry and I‘m not Klingon. I‘m just a ‘normal‘ Human who is acting in a ‘normal’ and ‘healthy’ way after hearing your closed minded bigotry and your misinformed opinions.

 

She paused, giving Erin a contemptible look, before continuing, “Klingons are not savages. And it’s B’Elanna! Her name is B’Elanna. She’s a decent, warm, and caring person. She has no more anger, contentiousness, or volatile nature than any other species I have known. She saved your daughter’s life. You should be kissing her feet and making her feel welcomed as a member of your family. You owe her. We all owe her.”

 

“Yes. But--”

 

“I’m not through yet. You listen to me Erin, and you listen good. Nick is not VULCAN. I’m not saying that she didn’t need some emotional control after what happened. But it went to the extreme. I’ve known her for years and saw the changes in her. She hasn’t been content and happy since all that… She went and learned all that damn control and never got the help she really needed to cope with what occurred. What happened to Nick was ‘rape’, Erin. Rape of the mind and a violation of the spirit.

 

“We never insisted that she seek help from a Human professional. No. And I’m at fault here, too. We listened to the Vulcan professionals that she subjugate her emotions because of the changes in her neural-cortical patterns, which we were told were essentially Vulcan. That and her ability to sense emotions in others. We failed to acknowledge that she is Human. And in doing that, we failed in getting her the help she needed in dealing with what happened on a Human level.”

 

Jude let out an anguished sob. “We failed her, Erin. I believe that B’Elanna can help her. Help her heal. They want to be together. They need to be together. I believe that Nick…Annika, senses through her bond with B’Elanna that she is making the right choice for her future and well-being. I believe that B’Elanna senses through this bond that she and Annika belong together. For the love of Annika. Let’s give them a chance. Support her in her choices. Please, Erin.”

 

Jude wiped her eyes and looked searchingly at Erin, and noticed that she was crying.

 

Erin choked back a sob and turned to go, saying, “I can’t take this in right now. I need to think,” and quickly exited the door to Jude’s home.

 

Somehow, Jude knew Erin would accept that Nick’s decision could also lead to Nick’s salvation.

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER ELEVEN

 

xxx

 

Annika held out her right hand, rubbed her thumb back and forth across her fingertips, and said, “The fee for a stay at my luxury hotel on Risa is nine hundred and fifty credits.”

 

B’Elanna protested indignantly, “That’s not fair. I get to roll the dice again as one of them landed on the table and not on the board.”

 

Annika looked at her and smirked. “It was right next to the board and counts as a legitimate throw.”

 

B’Elanna said, “Geez, you could say if they landed on the floor that would be a legitimate throw, too.”

 

“I could. If you can show me a rule in Cosmonopoly that states the dice have to land on the board to count, you may roll again.”

 

B’Elanna handed over her Cosmo-credits and said in a disgruntled tone, “Ferengi bloodsucker.”

 

Annika quickly counted the credits and stated, “This is only four hundred and fifty credits.”

 

“That’s all I have.”

 

“Then you must mortgage some of your planets or starship lines to the Great Exchequer and acquire the credits.”

 

B’Elanna rolled her eyes, sighed dramatically, and picked up her property cards to look over what she could keep and what she could sale.

 

The comm sounded with an incoming call and Annika said, “I will answer that.”

 

B’Elanna listened to the conversation in the living room, wondering who was calling this late in the evening. The female voice on the comm sounded familiar, but she couldn’t place it. The conversation was not loud enough for her to understand what was being said.

 

Annika came into the dining area and said, “Mother, wishes for us to have dinner with her and Shonok tomorrow night at her house. She states this is to mark my upcoming birthday, however, I believe she is attempting to make up for her behavior. I informed her that I would consult with you, first.”

 

“Sure. If you want. Ah, does this mean we’ll have to prepare the dinner?”

 

Annika suddenly acquired a decidedly devilish look in her eyes and said, “My mother has on occasion followed that particular Vulcan custom. I shall tell her we will accept and we will prepare the food. She will decline and state that she will prepare dinner as it is to celebrate my upcoming birthday. I shall be forceful and inform her we will only attend if I can prepare dinner. In fact, I will inform her we will prepare a dish that is traditional to your heritage.”

 

B’Elanna jerked her head back in surprise and said, “I don’t think that’s a good idea. What do you have in mind? Not gagh I hope.”

 

“No.” B’Elanna almost laughed at the expression of distaste on Annika’s face. Annika continued, “A traditional Mexican dish. But we will not inform her of this. Let her think it is a Klingon dish we are preparing.”

 

B’Elanna grinned and said, “You’re evil. I like that.”

 

Annika smirked and said, “I have my moments. I will inform her that we accept.”

 

Annika left and B’Elanna chortled. There were a lot of hidden depths to Annika. Ones she liked. She listened for a moment, and then with a sly smile reached over and took a few credits from the Great Exchequer, slipping them under her side of the Cosmonopoly board.

 

Annika came back and took her seat. “It is confirmed. I will prepare enchiladas and rice with black beans.”

 

B’Elanna said, “That’s a good choice. Those were really good that you prepared last week. I‘ll help.”

 

“Yes, you will. Your part in the preparation will be to visit with my mother and step-father and subject yourself to being cross-examined while I busy myself in the kitchen.”

 

B’Elanna groused, “Somehow, I think I‘m getting the hardest part. Just remember ‘that’, because when we visit QonoS I will leave you to the mercies of my mother and the members of my House. Oh, and did I mention that you are an official member of House Braca, since you’re my be’nal?”

 

Annika looked at her with some surprise, feeling pleased that B‘Elanna said this about meeting her mother and House, as it indicated she saw a future in their relationship. “No, you did not.”

 

B’Elanna smirked and said, “Um hm. You’re a Klingon now. There will be a party to welcome you to the House. Just think of the fun you’ll have getting into head butting contests with my cousins, your cousins now, and quaffing down great quantities of blood wine whenever one of the members toasts you. And the food, well, it’s to die for…literally. Maybe I’ll pass the word that you want to try all fifty odd something varieties of gagh. And the targ steak tartar--”

 

Annika held up her hand to stop B’Elanna from continuing and said, “Please. Do not mention the word, ‘gagh’, again.”

 

B’Elanna smiled. “Okay. I’ll try to remember not to mention that word again.”

 

Annika said, “Thank you. I am looking forward to meeting your family.” She looked at the Cosmonopoly board and said, “I believe you owe me five hundred credits.”

 

B’Elanna said, “Hmm, I think you’re right.” She looked at the edge of the Cosmonopoly board and hitting the side of her head with one hand said in mock surprise, “Oh, I almost forget. I always keep an emergency stash of credits under my side of the board.” She smirked as she lifted the board a little and withdrew a small pile of credits.

 

Annika protested, “You are cheating. You took that from the Great Exchequer while I was conversing with Mother.”

 

B’Elanna chortled, “It’s the Ferengi Rules, and you can use them while playing Cosmonopoly.”

 

“There are no such rules,” Annika said adamantly.

 

“Sure there are. It’s the Ferengi Rule of Acquisition number 1001. When you play Cosmonopoly you can steal from the Exchequer as long as no one catches you in the act.”

 

Annika looked at her doubtfully but said, “Very well. You owe me five hundred credits.”

 

B’Elanna, still smirking, counted out the five hundred credits.

 

Annika took the dice and rolled them with too much force, causing them to tumble across the board and over the tabletop toward B’Elanna, where they tumbled off of the table and onto the floor.

 

B’Elanna bent over to get them from the floor. Straightening up, she noticed a smirk on Annika’s face. Glancing at the Exchequer, she saw that it was empty and Annika’s credit pile was considerably bigger.

 

The only thing B’Elanna could do was laugh heartedly.

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER TWELVE

 

xxx

 

“I think the general consensus of most Klingons is that Chancellor Martok‘s policies are leading in the right direction. The infiltration by the Dominion Changelings into the High Council did much to harm relations between the Empire and the Federation. The Chancellor has made great strides in restoring much of the progress that has been destroyed. He has also paved the way for better relations with the Romulan Star Empire,” B’Elanna said.

 

She was in a discussion with both Shonok and Erin on the current state of the Klingon Empire. She and Annika had arrived at Erin and Shonok’s home earlier, for dinner.

 

Annika was in the kitchen preparing dinner. B’Elanna’s mouth was starting to water at the delicious aromas wafting from that area and knew that dinner would be ready soon.

 

Erin had greeted her cordially but coolly. Shonok, being Vulcan, greeted her cordially and reservedly.

 

Shonok nodded and said, “The Changeling infiltration of important positions in both the Federation and Starfleet did considerable harm. We are just now recovering.”

 

Annika‘s voice from the dining room interpreted the discussion. “Dinner is ready.”

 

B’Elanna tried not to smirk when she saw Erin’s face grow pale and the woman grimace a little.

 

Shonok, of course, didn’t reveal what he was thinking.

 

They made their way to the dining room, both Shonok and Erin seating themselves at the table. Erin looked at the casserole dish containing the enchiladas with puzzlement. Annika already had the tumblers filled with iced sweet tea at each place setting.

 

B’Elanna remained standing and said, “I’ll help my wife serve.” She glanced at Annika and winked then smiled when Annika smirked.

 

“Erin, if you hand me your plate, I’ll fill it for you.” B’Elanna said.

 

Erin, a stoic and Vulcan look on her face, handed her plate to B’Elanna.

 

B’Elanna took the plate and placed generous serving of enchiladas on it. “Erin, would you like some of the beans and rice?”

 

“Yes. Thank you.”

 

B’Elanna put a serving spoon of each on the plate, placed the plate in front of Erin, and said, “I hope you enjoy this as much as I do. It’s one of my favorite dishes from my heritage. My wife does an excellent job of preparing it.”

 

B’Elanna used every occasion that she could to refer to Annika as her wife. She didn’t want to be considered anything less than what she was. She hoped that this would let Erin, and anyone else, know that she took her and Annika’s marital status seriously.

 

Erin still regarded the plate with puzzlement, not sure what she was seeing, and asked, “What is this particular dish called?”

 

“Enchiladas. Have you ever had it before? It’s a really popular Mexican dish and one of my favorites. And as I said, my wife does an excellent job in preparing it.”

 

She noticed Erin’s eyes widen and then the older woman smiled, apparently in relief, and replied, “Oh yes. Enchiladas. I do enjoy them, as I do most Mexican food. Though it has been sometime since I have had an occasion to have it.” Erin then looked at Shonok and said, “I’m sure you will enjoy this, Shonok.”

 

Shonok nodded and said, “I defer to your recommendations, my wife.”

 

B’Elanna glanced at Annika and they both smirked. B‘Elanna said, “Well, there’s plenty here if you want more.”

 

Both she and Annika finished serving and filled their own plates and took their seats. Conversation was sparse as they enjoyed the meal.

 

Both Erin and Shonok complimented Annika on the meal and both had seconds. For dessert, there was flan with caramel sauce.

 

Erin finished her dessert, looked at her daughter, and said, “I’m impressed. This was delicious. It all was delicious. I thought your expertise at ‘cooking’ encompassed dinner at Jude’s, and ordering out.”

 

“Normally it does. However, I wished to do something special for my wife and learned to prepare one of her favorite dishes.” She glanced at B’Elanna with a shy smile and then returned her attention to Erin and said, “Jude gave me instructions.” She paused, a twinkle in her eyes and said, “I am glad you enjoyed this. I shall invite both you and Shonok to our house where I will prepare another dish from B’Elanna’s heritage. Gagh, and targ tartar steak.”

 

B’Elanna couldn’t help but burst out in laughter at the look of horror on Erin’s face. She regained her composure and said to Erin. “Forgive me. I’m sure you’ll be relieved to know that I do ‘not’ enjoy those particular dishes. I have a very Human digestive system. Though I do enjoy a mug of blood wine on occasion.”

 

She could see that Erin was much relieved.

 

Shonok said, “I have never tried blood wine. I am curious, does it contain blood?”

 

“No. But it is used in ceremonies, and when taking oaths sometimes blood is mixed in. Blood wine is very potent and believe me, it pays to drink it in moderation as the hangovers are particularly wicked. I prefer ales myself. In fact, I like many of the Vulcan ales, especially the dark ones.”

 

Shonok and B’Elanna entered into a discussion on the merits of the different Vulcan ales and brewing techniques while Erin helped Annika clear the table.

 

When the two women were in the kitchen cleaning the pans and disposing of some of the replicated dishes, Erin said, “I must say, B’Elanna isn’t what I expected at all.”

 

Annika gave her mother a measured look and said wryly, “Not quite the…savage…you expected?”

 

Erin blushed and looked contrite. “I’m sorry I said those things to you.”

 

“It is to B’Elanna that you should direct your apology.”

 

“Yes. I will.”

 

“Then, I thank you. It would mean a lot to me.”

 

Erin examined her daughter closely and said, “You have strong feelings for her, don’t you?”

 

Annika hesitated and answered, “Yes.”

 

“Can I ask…do you love her?”

 

Annika paused for a moment, considering her reply. “That is a very personal question, Mother.”

 

“Then, I apologize,” Erin said sincerely.

 

Annika nodded, and then said, “I will say this. I hold her in great affection. I find this affection grows the more I am around her and I see who she is as a person. Where this may lead…” ‘Perhaps, it has already led to…love. Lately, when I look at her, or hear her voice…’

 

Erin hugged her and said, “She holds you in great affection, too. I can see it when she looks at you and hear it when she talks to you, and about you. Annika, I wish you both the best.”

 

Annika nodded once in acknowledgement and smiled softly.

 

They returned to the living room where B‘Elanna and Shonok were seated and talking. Annika sat beside her wife on the sofa, her shoulder almost touching B‘Elanna.

 

B’Elanna looked at her and smiled, Annika returning a shy one of her own.

 

Erin, still standing, got B’Elanna’s attention and said, “I have something you may be interested in seeing.” She then glanced at Annika, smirked and continued, “I‘ll be right back.”

 

She exited the room and B’Elanna glanced at Annika with a questioning look. Annika shrugged slightly.

 

Erin returned with a large PADD, sat on the other side of B’Elanna, turned the PADD on and showing it to B’Elanna said, “In two days is Annika’s birthday. I thought you might like to see a picture of her taken on the day she was born.”

 

“Mother!” Annika exclaimed in dismay.

 

B’Elanna laughed and said, “Let me see that.” She thought, ‘Showing me Annika’s baby pictures. I can’t have made that bad of an impression.’

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

 

xxx

 

“Time, 06.45.”

 

B’Elanna opened her eyes and sighed. It took her a moment to remember why she had set the time so early. Then it dawned: Annika‘s birthday.

 

She slid from under the covers, stretched, and yawned. Not bothering to retrieve her robe or slippers, she went to the bathroom and saw that the bathroom door to Annika’s room was open. She peered in seeing the sleeping woman in the muted light from the bathroom.

 

She carefully closed the door and went to the sonic shower, setting the controls for five minutes.

 

After her shower, she went back to her bedroom and put on her robe and slippers. She opened the drawer on her nightstand and removed a small, blue velvet box and put it in one of the pockets of her robe.

 

She went to her closet, retrieved the one foot square stasis container that had arrived by special delivery late yesterday afternoon, and took it to the kitchen.

 

She went to the kitchen cabinet and removed two blue ceramic serving bowls. She opened the stasis container and smelled the fresh scent of ripe strawberries. She removed the quart container of strawberries and rinsed them under the sink and placed them on a paper towel to let them dry. She next removed a poly-aluminum thermos jug, opened it, and poured the thick cream into one of the blue bowls.

 

She retrieved a tray, placed the bowl of cream onto it, next retrieved the strawberries, and placed them in the other bowl and placed both bowls on the tray. She also placed a white linen napkin on the tray.

 

She carried the tray to Annika’s room and entered. The low ambient light from the closed window lent enough light for her to see. She walked to the side of the bed and placed the tray on the nightstand by the side of the bed where Annika was sleeping.

 

Annika stirred slightly, but did not wake.

 

B’Elanna opened up the window shade to let in the early dawn light. She turned in time to see Annika sit up and stare confusedly at her, and say, “B’Elanna?”

 

B’Elanna smiled and said, “Happy birthday. I thought I would start your day out with something special.” She indicated the tray on the bedside nightstand.

 

Annika looked toward the nightstand and said, “Computer, lights at morning standard.”

 

The computer raised the lighting and Annika blinked in surprise, saying nothing for a moment.

 

B’Elanna felt her heart jump into her throat when Annika’s face lit up with a radiant smile, all teeth and dimples, her eyes bright and crinkled at the corners. She felt exhilarated at witnessing this phenomenon for the first time.

 

“Fresh strawberries,” said Annika. Still smiling, she reached over, took one of the strawberries, closed her eyes, and sniffed it. Then she parted those luscious lips and bit into it. “Uhmm. Delicious. Where did you get them?”

 

B’Elanna almost forgot to breathe so intent was she watching those voluptuous lips surrounding the juicy red berry. She also took in the exposed creamy left shoulder where the dark blue nightshirt had slipped down, and the tousled blonde hair brushing that shoulder.

 

‘Kahless!’ “Uh.” ‘What did she say, oh, yeah.’ “Earth. I ordered them from Earth. I got the cream for you to dip them in from Earth, too. From a real dairy that has some kind of special milk cows they call Jerry or Jersey, something like that. Why don’t you lean back against the headboard and I‘ll hand you the tray.”

 

Annika threw back the cover and moved over, leaned back against the headboard, and said, “I have made room for you. You must help me eat them.”

 

“Uhm. Sure. Here, take this first,” she said as she handed the tray to Annika. She got into the bed slowly, not wanting to jar the tray on Annika’s lap. She settled against the headboard and felt the warm mattress beneath her where Annika had slept and the warmth radiating from the woman whose shoulder brushed against hers.

 

This combined with Annika’s scent caused a quick stab of arousal and she had to smother the accompanying growl. ‘Kahless, I’m dying here.’

 

“Please. Help yourself.” Annika’s voice was almost a purr due to being awoken so early. She had just dipped another strawberry in the cream and placed it in her mouth.

 

B’Elanna willed her pulse rate to slow, reined in her libido, reached over and took one of the plump berries, dipping it in the cream and brought it to her mouth, taking a bit. “Uhm. This gives me a new appreciation for strawberries.” ‘Especially after seeing those lucky berries being caressed by those lips…Stop it. Stop it.’

 

They ate the strawberries while commenting on the planned activities for Annika’s birthday celebration. When they were done, Annika removed the tray from her lap, leaned over, and put it on the other nightstand. She righted herself, looked at B’Elanna, and said, “I thank you for the gift. It was very thoughtful of you.”

 

B’Elanna took the small blue velvet box out of her robe pocket and said, “I have something else for you.” She shyly handed the box to Annika who held it in her hand and looked at it, a smile on her face.

 

Annika opened the box and drew in her breath at the sight of the lovely gold, heart shaped pendant with diamonds around the edge, the middle of the heart was cut out. She took it out of the box and holding it by the gold chain exclaimed, “It is exquisite.” She looked at B’Elanna, held out the necklace, smiled, and said, “Will you help me put it on?”

 

“Yes.” B’Elanna’s reached out for the necklace, her fingers touched Annika’s warm fingertips, eliciting a jolt of arousal to course through her. She took the chain and Annika turned, presenting her back to her. B’Elanna reached around her neck and held the chain by each end, sliding her hands beneath the hair in back of the neck. Annika assisted by lifting the hair off her neck, bringing the golden cloud up close to B’Elanna’s face. B’Elanna closed her eyes, stealthily nuzzling the soft hair, feeling suddenly faint with desire. She attempted to clasp the necklace with shaking hands, somehow managing to do it and removed her hands, feeling the slide of smooth silky hair across the back of her fingers and hand. “There. All done.” She was surprised that she could speak.

 

Annika let her hair fall back over her shoulders and turned to B’Elanna, smiling and taking the pendent in her fingers to admire it. She let it drop at the beginning of the valley of her breasts and still smiling, looked at B’Elanna, with bright eyes. On impulse, Annika leaned over and gave B’Elanna a quick kiss on her cheek. “It is lovely. Thank you. And thank you for the strawberries. How did you know that they are my favorite?”

 

“ Jude,” B’Elanna stammered , looking  suddenly bashful. She looked at Annika and smiled shyly, softly saying, “I wanted to do something special for your birthday.”

 

Annika smiled back, another scintillating one, and said, “It is all special; the berries, the necklace…and so are you. You are special.”

 

B’Elanna caught her breath. ‘Gods, she is unbelievably gorgeous when she smiles. And she thinks I’m special.’

 

Their eyes locked and Annika sucked in her breath and thought, ‘I want to kiss her.’ She focused on the small but plump, well shaped lips and found herself leaning forward, closing her eyes, feeling the warmth of them brush against her own, tentative at first, then the pressure increased.

 

Before she could put her arms around B’Elanna to draw her closer, she heard the sound of the door chime.

 

B’Elanna broke the kiss and said, “The door.”

 

“I shall see who it is.” She quickly rolled to the other side of the bed and B’Elanna watched as she retrieved her robe from the end of the bed and slipped it on.

 

B’Elanna sighed in both frustration and dismay. ‘What just happened here…or was about to happen? Are we ready for this? I know she cares, I could feel it, but is it enough? Is it enough that I think I’m in love with her…No…that I know I’m in love with her?’

 

She glanced at the chronometer on the nightstand and saw that it was 07:49. Jude and Stron were due at 08:00. Maybe it was for the best that they stopped, considering that there would not have been a lot of time to engage in where that kiss could have led.

 

She heard Jude’s voice from the living room. Apparently, they had arrived early.

 

She slid out of bed to go get a shower and get dressed when Annika walked back in.

 

“It is Jude and Stron. They stopped by a bakery and bought fresh baked pastries. I informed them that we would join them in a few minutes. Jude is preparing tea…and raktajino for you.”

 

B’Elanna nodded and said, “I’m on my way to get dressed. I won’t take long.”

 

Annika nodded, and their eyes locked, B’Elanna noticing her wife’s eyes widen and the tip of her tongue dart out to lick her top lip. She sucked in her breath and quickly caught Annika against her, crushing her mouth to hers. Annika fervently returned the kiss, demanding in its intensity, then softened, the tips of their tongues caressing.

 

B’Elanna felt her head spin and groaned as she pushed Annika away from her and said, “I don’t know whether to apologize for that or curse the fact that we can’t continue this…”

 

Annika smiled in delight and said, “Unfortunately, we must put our social obligations first. Were it otherwise…I would continue.” She sobered and said, “We will discuss…this…when we return, tonight.”

 

B’Elanna nodded and faintly said, “Tonight.” Wherever Annika led, she would follow. She said a fervent prayer to whatever deity would hear that the place where Annika led would be each other dwelling in the other’s heart.

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

 

xxx

 

Annika leaned back against the smooth grey boulder and watched as B‘Elanna and Stron walked away toward the parking area to retrieve the picnic basket and blankets from the aero-car.

 

The boulder offered some shade from the sun, which was at its zenith. Hasgar canyon was significantly cooler than most of Vulcan due to the Hasgar River and the high sides of the canyon walls, which kept out the direct sunlight for most of the day.

 

They had just finished their raft trip and hiked the three miles back to their picnic site.

 

Annika had enjoyed the raft trip, even though it was a bit rougher than Jude led her to believe it would be. The raft seated eight and a guide. All eight passengers had to assist in paddling. And, all eight had managed to get wet from a small portion of the trip that went through the churning rapids. However, the two couples dried in a short time on their walk to the picnic area.

 

B’Elanna had taken Annika’s hand on the three mile walk back. Each woman looked frequently at the other and smiled. Annika could feel B’Elanna’s emotions through their bond and was aware of the strong feelings of affection, and yes, an underlying sexual current. Annika was certain B’Elanna could feel the same emotions emanating from her.

 

Annika had also noticed the smug smile that Jude would occasionally bestow on them on the walk. In fact, Jude was so intent on looking at them that she tripped and fell against Stron, who kept his balance and prevented both from hitting the hard ground. After that, Jude curtailed her spying.

 

She heard Jude moan next to her and say, “I must have stubbed my toe when I tripped back there.”

 

Annika observed Jude remove her shoe and sock to examine her toe. After a moment, Annika said, “If you had kept your attention on the trail, instead of on me and B’Elanna, you would not have tripped.”

 

Jude smirked and wryly said, “And miss seeing the spectacle you and B’Elanna were providing?”

 

Annika blushed and replied indignantly, “Holding hands is not a spectacle. You and Stron were also engaged in that activity.”

 

“Yeah, but, Stron and I weren’t making googie-eyes at each other.” Jude smirked when she said this. She added, “I got the distinct feeling that Stron and I interrupted something this morning.” She chuckled when Annika blushed even redder. “So, tell your best friend and big sis what I interrupted.”

 

“No.”

 

“Ah, come on, Nick. How can I give you advice if you won’t tell?” Jude cajoled.

 

“Why do you think I need advice?”

 

“Well. Pardon me then, Ms. Worldly Wise.”

 

She reached over, took the chain around Annika’s neck, and pulled the pendent out from under her shirt, examining it closely before letting it fall against Annika’s chest. She smiled and said, “I didn’t get a chance to tell you this morning when I was admiring it, but I went with B’Elanna when she bought it. Let me tell you, the woman went through all the necklace selection on display at Senita’s Jewelries and didn’t find what she wanted.

 

“Senita herself took over from the salesperson and asked B’Elanna what she was looking for. B’Elanna said a valentine heart pendent with jewels in it. Of course, Senita being Vulcan, had no idea what a valentine heart pendent was. B’Elanna had to draw a picture. Senita told her to wait, went into the back of the shop, and came out with a tray of antique jewelry, some pieces in the form of the typical valentine heart.

 

“B’Elanna’s eyes were drawn right to the piece. Senita said it was an antique gold piece from Earth’s twentieth century and the stones were natural diamonds and not ones created in a lab. B’Elanna didn’t even blink when Senita told her the price. She signed her name to the credit PADD with a smile on her face.

 

“I tell you, that’s the kind of gift you give someone you’re head over heels crazy about.”

 

Annika fingered the pendant and said softly, “I believe I am in love with her.”

 

Jude hugged Annika and laughed delightedly. “I’m so happy for you. For both of you as I have a feeling B’Elanna feels the same way.”

 

Annika looked at Jude, her eyes serious and said, “I believe I am ready to…escalate… our relationship, but I find that I have feelings of both anticipation and trepidation.”

 

“Well, kiddo, that’s pretty normal. Just go with what you feel and see where it goes.”

 

Annika said, “This morning, we kissed. I felt…” She looked down and blushed, swallowing hard.

 

Jude was still, saying nothing and giving her friend time to continue.

 

Annika looked back up and into Jude’s eyes. “I wanted her, Jude. Not only sexually, but to connect with her through our bond and share with her what I feel…how she makes me feel. When we kissed…and later, on our walk, when we held hands, I felt her warm regard and affection for me. However, perhaps it is too soon. What if she is not ready?”

 

“When you kissed, did she say anything…did you tell her how you felt?”

 

“No. We were interrupted and had no time to discuss what had happened. I informed her we would discuss ‘it’ later…tonight.”

 

“That’s when Stron and I showed up, isn’t it? I‘m sorry for that.”

 

“Do not apologize. There was little we could have accomplished in ten minutes.”

 

Jude both snorted and chortled, “That’s what you think. I can think of a lot you can do in just five minutes. Well, you two will have plenty of time tonight to discuss what happened.” She gave Annika a measured look and continued, “Nick, love, don’t analyze it too much though. Too much talk can kill the mood. Just go back to your place and sort of set the stage.”

 

“Set the stage? How?”

 

“Turn down the lights and put on some soft music. In fact, take a long relaxing bath and put some nice smelling bath oil in the water. Dress casual…very casual. Wear a nice lounging robe and tie it so it shows plenty of cleavage…and leg. Leave your hair down and about your shoulders…”She stopped talking for a moment when she saw Annika blink and blush. She continued, “Hey, don’t get all ‘Great Aunt Prudie’. You have to show her that you’re interested in an intimate relationship. You have to make an effort here. It might not go anywhere tonight, but at least it’ll show you’re comfortable with her in an intimate setting. Throw some cushions on the floor, light some candles, and serenade her with your harp. That will get the mood really romantic. Believe me, romantic gestures go a long way…a real long way. Then, go with the flow.”

 

There was the sound of footsteps approaching and Jude looked up and saw Stron and B’Elanna with the picnic supplies a few yards away.

 

Annika saw them too and replied quickly to Jude, “I shall consider your advice.”

 

Jude replied under her breath, “I expect a full report.”

 

xxx

 

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

 

xxx

 

Annika looked shyly at B’Elanna and said, “I had a very good time today…and this morning. I want to thank you again for the thoughtful gifts. You have made my birthday special.”

 

B’Elanna smiled in pleasure. Then her features softened and with softness to her voice said, “I’m glad. I enjoyed doing that for you.”

 

It was now dusk and they had just returned home from the trip to Hasgar Canyon and were standing in the living room.

 

B’Elanna took a chance, put her arms around Annika’s shoulders, and softly kissed her on the corner of her mouth. She stepped back and said, “I hope I wasn’t being presumptuous in doing that.”

 

Annika smiled shyly and said, “No. You were not.” She then stepped close, circled her arms around B’Elanna’s shoulders, and brought her close, kissing her firmly on the mouth.

 

B’Elanna moaned softly, circled her arms around Annika’s waist, and returned the kiss, her tongue flicking over soft and full lips. The kiss turned more passionate as Annika opened her mouth and let B’Elanna enter.

 

After a long moment of pleasurable kissing, the two separated, their breathing harsh and eyes laden with passion.

 

Annika reached up and brushed a strand of wavy hair from B’Elanna’s forehead, her fingers lightly traced one of her wife’s ridges. She stared deep into dark molten eyes.

 

B’Elanna took the hand and placed kisses on the fingertips then softly inquired, “Are you sure, Annika? I’ll follow your lead in this.”

 

Annika trembled lightly, from both excitement and fear, “We agreed earlier to discuss this. However, before we do I have a need to bathe and dress in clean clothes after our excursion. I find that I am itching from sand that somehow made its way under my clothing.” She really wanted to follow Jude’s advice and ‘set the stage’ for where their ‘discussion’ might lead.

 

B’Elanna grinned and said, “Yeah. I guess we‘re both kind of raunchy and dirty from hiking most of the day. Besides, I could use a soak in the tub for my sore calf muscles. I haven’t done that much hiking in ages.”

 

Annika nodded and smiled. “Yes. I shall give you bathroom privileges first.”

 

B’Elanna said, “Why don’t you go first?”

 

“No. I insist that you go first. I have something I must do.”

 

“Okay. I won‘t take long.”

 

Annika watched as B’Elanna walked away and took a deep breath. ‘You want this, as does she. Yes, and afterwards? For once in your life, go with what you ‘feel’. Logic and reason have no place here. They are the snare in the sand for what your heart yearns. Follow the path where your heart leads.’

 

She busied herself following Jude’s advice.

 

.

 

xxx

 

Despite the warm enveloping water and soothing aroma of the jasmine bath oil, B’Elanna couldn’t relax. She was wound tight thinking about where this night would lead. ‘Kahless, you would think this would be our first time. Well. I guess in a way it is. Pon Farr was something in a class by itself: More driven by instinct instead of by love. Love? Yes, love. Admit it, you love her. Yes, I do.’

 

She stayed in the tub a few minutes more, the turmoil of her thoughts finally driving her out. She dried and put on the short lounging robe she had purchased recently. It was a soft saffron color with a pattern of pale greens and blues and came to mid thigh. It was wrap-around and tied closed with a sash around the waist. She had had some second thoughts about wearing this due to the ’suggestive’ connotations, but, then again, if Annika didn’t want to go ‘there’, that was okay. At least she would dress for the possibilities.

 

She exited the bathroom and entered the living room, immediately noticing the subdued lighting and soft candle light from the various candles situated around the room. The fragrances of the scented candles were delicate but not overpowering.

 

She also noticed the various pillows and cushions spread on the soft area rug. She smiled, remembering how their first ‘encounter’ started out very much like this.

 

She heard a sound and turned to find Annika regarding her with interest.

 

Annika said, “That is very becoming on you.”

 

B‘Elanna felt herself blush and said, “Thank you, I’m glad you approve.”

 

“Very much so.” She handed B’Elanna a platter and said, “I thought we could finish up the pastries that Jude brought over this morning.” She stood regarding B‘Elanna for a few long moments before saying, “I shall return shortly.”

 

All that B‘Elanna could do was nod. She watched Annika depart and let her breath out. She placed the platter of pastries by one of the cushions. Her mouth was dry from nervousness and she went to the kitchen and requested the replicator give her a glass of water.

 

She stood drinking the water, her mind refusing to focus. ‘Kahless, get a grip. You know, she’ll pick up your nervousness. Try to look at this as sharing time with her as you have been doing for the past few weeks. Yeah, right.’

 

She went back to the living room and settled herself on the rug, among the cushions. She leaned back against one and closed her eyes, trying to relax.

 

After a few minutes, she took a small pastry from the tray and popped the small bite into her mouth, barely tasting it due to her nervousness. Her attention was drawn to the slight rustle of fabric and she caught her breath at the sight of Annika in a blue silk robe, her hair in a glorious cascade of gold falling about her shoulders and down her back. Her eyes were drawn to the exposed tops of creamy white breasts, and she saw the necklace that she had given her, the pendant resting between the valley. She felt her mouth go dry and thought, ‘She’s so very beautiful.’ B’Elanna couldn’t tear her eyes away.

 

Annika sat down among the cushions across from her and it was then that B’Elanna noticed the harp that she carried. Annika plucked some of the strings and began to tune the instrument.

 

B‘Elanna said with curiosity, “I didn’t know you could play that. I thought it was just a decoration.”

 

“I can play many simple songs. I find it soothes me. And I enjoy playing the old traditional Vulcan songs.”

 

“Oh? Play something for me,” B’Elanna requested and took a bite out of the pastry she was holding.

 

Annika smiled, pleased by B‘Elanna‘s request, and asked, “What type of song would you like to hear? A melancholy piece? A dance perhaps, or a drinking song?”

 

B’Elanna almost choked on the pastry she was chewing. “You’re kidding me right? The melancholy I can almost believe, but dancing and drinking songs?”