Disclaimer: I don't own Star Trek, big shocker... lol
A/N: This is an idea I've had for awhile, I hope it turns out well. Here goes nothing. :)
"I can't believe you fell for that one!" Tom laughed as Harry wiped the thick pile of mud off of his head. His hair was oozing with the thick substance that was now smeared throughout half of his face as well.
"It's not exactly like I was watching for giant piles of mud to be flying through the air in this program!" Harry retorted in half hearted mock offense.
Tom had been working on his newest holodeck venture which he called, "Monster Truck Rally". The rather large ancient vehicles hadn't been used in centuries. They were formerly used the purpose of entertainment. He'd designed a wide array of stunt shows for the crew. Everyone had shown up for the big reveal of opening night, with the exception of those placed on duty. The Captain had been persuaded to join the festivities as well. Neelix had excitedly volunteered to be announcer and though Tuvok tried to get out of it, Neelix had volunteered him to co-host the event. Harry, Tom, B'Elanna and Ensign Wildman were the drivers who would be putting on the show tonight.
Tom could hardly control his laughter at the expression on his best friend's face. "Oh, Harry," he shook his head, "What'd you expect? We'd be driving through grass? How boring would that be?! Mud is much more fun!" The new father grinned mischievously. He'd been getting used to fatherhood the last few weeks and was doing an excellent job, but he and B'Elanna needed a break from the joys of waking up at all hours of the night. This program had been one he'd begun before she'd given birth and was nearly finished by the time Miral was born. It only took a few hours to finish. He was sure Miral would enjoy giving her sitter a large handful, though he hoped not more than she could handle. B'Elanna had laughed at his suggestion saying that Miral might just sleep the entire time, if only to be ironic and awake all night for her parents to enjoy her boisterous lung capacity once more.
"So, are you nervous about tonight?" Harry asked in attempt to steer the conversation away from his embarrassment.
Tom looked puzzled for a moment, "About what?" he asked. His demeanor was full of confidence and pride. "This show is going to be a hit, I don't think there's anything to worry about."
Harry nodded in agreement. "Oh it's going to be big, that's for sure." He gave a small smile. "But that's not what I was talking about. Isn't this the first time you've had a sitter?" he asked knowingly.
Tom chuckled and ran his fingers through his hair as he sighed, "Yeah, but it won't be the last." He gave a pat to the vehicle he'd be driving tonight, 'Colossus' he called it. "It's gonna be nice taking a breather, oh but she's worth it." He smiled, "Miral is full of surprises, someday she'll be making holoprograms with her old man."
Harry laughed out loud, "Does B'Elanna know about this idea of yours?" he asked as they walked out of the holodeck.
Tom grinned as the put his hand on his friend's shoulder, "All in good time Harry, all in good time".
As she approached the door she felt completely nervous, her hands were somewhat clammy and her cheeks were a bit flushed. She tried to focus on what Chakotay had told her early that day. He'd said she would do fine and not to worry, he was only a comm. badge away if she needed anything. Seven took a deep breath as she pushed the button on their door.