The walk to the transporter was met with silence and a sense of accomplishment. As soon as we walk through the front door, however, the three people who hadn't attended the meeting assault us with questions.
Simultaneously, my father and I both stick our hands in the air to halt the questions.
"It went as well as could be hoped for. Katie did a great job."
"Admiral Thomas told me to expect a call from him. He thinks I'll present in front of the Federation council within the next month. Knowing the council, it will be closer to two."
"That's great Kathryn." Chakotay grabbed me up in a hug. I know he had sensed my mood right when I walked through the door.
"I'm very pleased myself."
Chakotay kisses the top of my head before letting me go. Before I am completely out of his arms, I feel my mother and my sister surround me. They could all see how ragged I was getting with worry that the council wouldn't listen to me.
"I'll give you some time to relax now that the stress is over for a moment." My mother says while taking my father's hand and leading him towards their bedroom suite. I know my dad is about to tell my mom about the two week leave he decided to take that starts tomorrow. I think a trip to Lake George is in their very near future.
"I was about to leave sis, but I wanted to hear the news from you. You still coming to the gallery opening in two days?"
"I wouldn't miss it for the world, Phoebe."
Chakotay leads me to the living room where we both sink into the couch. I lean my head into his chest and take up our normal position. His heart beat is calm under my ear just like it was that first day.
"I love you, Kathryn."
I look up and cup Chakotay's cheek. It's the first time I have heard those words from that voice since New Earth.
"I'm glad. I love you so much."
Chakotay gives me a tender kiss before softly placing my head back against his chest.
"Will you marry me?"
This time I stand. His eyes show a fear that is endearing, and I know exactly what I want to say in that moment.
"Of course I will, but I want to do something else first."
Chakotay grabs me around the waist, hoists me up, and starts towards the stairs and down the hall to my bedroom.
Before Chakotay can get carried away, I cup both sides of his face.
"Two things."
Chakotay nods. His heavy breathing is telling me to hurry.
"This of course, but before I marry you, I want to go to Trebus."
I see the fear in his eyes and the pain just as I know he sees my determination. I open my mouth to speak again, but before I can he agrees.
"Okay."
And with that he places his mouth against mine and lowers me on to my bed.