Clarification
By Laura Schiller
Based on Star Trek: Voyager
Copyright: Paramount
To: Seven of Nine
From: Ensign Harry Kim
Subject: last night
You must be wondering why I'm writing you a padd message instead of talking to you in person. The truth is, I find this easier. As you've already noticed, I get nervous around you, and the more nervous I am, the harder it gets to communicate. So this way is more efficient, don't you think?
About what happened last night in the mess hall, I want to apologize. You were right. I was trying to 'change the nature of our affiliation', as you put it. You're an interesting, intelligent, beautiful woman and I can't help finding you attractive. But trying to relate to you like I would with an ordinary human was a mistake. You were Borg, after all – it wouldn't be fair to expect you to pick up in three months what takes most humans years to learn.
These human courtship rituals that confuse you were developed for a reason: to get to know your partner, to build trust and understanding, before you get into an intimate relationship. That's complicated – probably the most complicated part about being an individual. As my mom always says, don't try to run before you can walk.
From now on, I promise to give you as much space and time to develop your individuality as you need.
Maybe someday, when you feel ready, ask me about the Ktarian moonrise. Until then, a working relationship is all I ask for.
To: Ensign Harry Him
From: Seven of Nine
Subject: Re: last night
Thank you for clarifying your motives. I understand. Emotional attachments are indeed confusing to me, and I have much to learn before attempting to create one. Meanwhile, I agree with your suggestion of maintaining a 'working relatioship'. We are efficient as colleagues and I appreciate your efforts to help me integrate into this crew.
If and when I decide to select a mate, I cannot promise to choose you … but I promise to remember your invitation.