Part 4

You Never Know

Kathryn's tears slid down her cheeks, as she began picking up the stray roses off the porch. The thought that even after all these years that he still loved her, overwhelmed her. As she bunched the roses together she saw a small envelope attached to one of the roses. She knelt over and read the envelope.

Kathryn

She took the rest of the roses inside, and placed them in a vase. When she was finished she grabbed the envelope off the table and headed to the couch. She sat staring at the envelope; finally she ripped it open and began to read.

My dearest Kathryn,

I'm so sorry for everything that has happened between us. I really must apologize for my behavior. You know me better than anyone, and you know how I feel about you. I have always felt the same regardless of the situation. I can't ever forgive myself for betraying you and your love. We belong together and we always have. When we are apart I dream of the moment that we will be together again. That's why I want you to be my wife. Please let me love you the way that we have always planned.

All my love,

Mark

Kathryn stared at the letter. All of her life she had wanted a man to loves her. Now she had two that were both in love with her. Trepidation slowly overtook her senses as she ran to the bathroom and threw up.

The rest of the day was seemingly uneventful, compared to the morning. Every time she thought that she had come to a decision something changed her mind. She was about ready to plan a vacation for herself to get away when she heard the door chime. She ran downstairs and opened the door.

A delivery man was at the door. She smiled at him. The man smiled back.

"Hello maim, are you Kathryn Janeway?"

"Yes."

"This package is for you, please sign here."

Kathryn signed for the package, and took it inside. Even thou she was grown up she loved getting presents. She looked at the beautiful wrapping and was in awe. Their was no envelope and she was curious about who had sent it to her. Then she saw if and knew. On the very top of the package was a copy of his tattoo.

Kathryn slowly unwrapped the package revealing its contents. A long black dress was inside, with a single rose lying on top. The tears began to fall again, as she removed the rose. She read the little message that was enclosed, but found it hard to concentrate through her tears.

Kathryn,

I want to do this the right way. The way I have always dreamt of doing it. Please come to the restaurant at the wharf tonight. The directions are on the back of the card. I love you, and I cannot wait to see you. I have one last surprise for you.

Yours,

Chakotay

Kathryn had made her choice. It had been so easy; she didn't know why she had made it so difficult.

The door chimed again. She shook her head, and opened the door.

"Kath, I see you got my gift."

Kathryn swallowed hard.

TBC