Voyager Headquarters, Medical

Jeffrey was returned to the room later in the day, his ankle wrapped in enough bandaging to nearly double its size. The doctor was smiling as he entered the room.

"It went well," Abercrombie began to Bogg, as a curt voice interrupted.

"Doctor, I do not object to Voyager Bogg being aware of the child's condition. However, it is to me you should address the information," Lannier said.

The doctor nodded and turned to the woman with an apologetic glance at Bogg, who was glowering but clearly realized it best to hold his tongue.

"Jeff is a strong kid, and the surgery was successful. The ankle has been set and pinned. I expect he'll make a full recovery in time and be in fine shape to travel the ages," Abercrombie said. "He'll sleep for a while yet, obviously, as the anesthesia wears off."

"Thank you, doctor. I will retire for a time, knowing that the boy is cared for. I do look forward to meeting my charge upon my return," Lannier said. "Voyager Bogg, I would suggest …"

"Voyager Lannier, you said I could stay until he woke up," Bogg said. "I'm staying."

"As you wish, then," the woman said as she walked from the room.

Bogg returned to his position next to Jeff and took the boy's hand. Looking up at Abercrombie he just said, "And what is with her?"

The doctor sighed, "Eugenie takes things a bit seriously, I know, but she does mean well. Strictly speaking, it's a violation of her role to have you here at all. Jeffrey isn't supposed to see you one-on-one until there is a formal review of his status. Did you ever file a petition for guardianship?"

"I never thought about it. I was sort of busy voyaging and being a guardian," Bogg replied. "I suppose I should have known it would catch the Council's notice eventually, but Jeff belongs with me. I didn't worry about it.

"I guess I should have."

Abercrombie nodded imperceptibly and put a hand on Bogg's shoulder.

"But Jeff's OK, right?" Bogg asked.

"Yes."

"Well, it sounds like I'll have plenty of time to worry about this soon, when he's awake and his guardian kicks me out."