Chapter Fifteen: Congratulations

It had been two days since Deanna's promotion and the discovery of Beverly's pregnancy, and so far both were the best-kept secrets on the Enterprise. Deanna had requested that her promotion remain a secret until she had taken care of personal issues. And Beverly had given Deanna the honour of announcing her pregnancy. This morning Captain Picard had gotten Troi's permission to reveal her promotion to the rest of the crew.

All Senior Staff; report to the Bridge. Captain Troi glanced at her reflection one more time. She told herself that she looked like a true Starfleet Officer as she nervously left her quarters. Her fourth pip and medal was hidden in her closed hand.

In the Turbolift she joined Data and Geordi who were on their way up as well. She handed the medal and pip to Geordi who silently attached them on her uniform. On the Bridge the other Senior Staff members were already present. Silently she walked down and went to stand in front of her usual chair.

Jean-Luc stood up and gestured her to stand in front of his chair. While she moved the other officers gathered in front of the view screen. No one spoke. Curious, the lieutenants and ensigns present watched the strange behaviour of their superiors in puzzlement.

"Computer: open ship-wide comm channel."

Channel open. He winked at the Deanna and began to speak.

"This is Jean-Luc Picard, Captain of the Enterprise-E speaking. Can I have your full attention please." The Betazoid felt the anxiety and curiosity of the crew rising and locked her eyes on her Captain.

"It is my pleasure and honour to announce to you the promotion of one of the most cherished officers on board this ship. Two days ago that officer was promoted to Captain." The anxiety was gone, but the curiosity kept rising. "To my surprise, and frankly relief, the new Captain has requested to be allowed to stay aboard the Enterprise...I have granted that request." The curiosity was almost overwhelming and accompanied by confusion.

"Together with the promotion the officer also received the medal of Exceptional Courage, the most prestigious award within Starfleet." The pride she felt among the crew made her feel content, loved and...home. With a slow nod Picard indicated it was time. He stepped forward and extended his hand. Deanna took it.

"Deanna Troi, congratulations on your promotion to Captain. I can't think of anyone who deserves it more."

"Thank you Captain." Briefly she closed her eyes when she felt the joy of almost a thousand people wash over her. "And congratulations to you as well." Quickly she winked at Beverly before she returned her eyes to Picard's now confused face. "I'm sure you'll make a wonderful father."

Quizzically he looked into the mischievous onyx eyes of his Counselor, but she just smiled back and offered no explanation. When the meaning of her words dawned on him he slowly turned around on his heels and looked at his wife. Her cheeks were flushed and her eyes were aimed at the floor.

"Beverly?" She nodded slightly and then lifted up her blue eyes to lock them on her husband's. The confusion on his face was exchanged for joy as he ran towards her and scooped her in his arms. "You're pregnant?! That's fantastic! Marvelous! Terrific!!!" Joy and relief replaced Beverly's nervousness and anxiety as she laughed and cried at the same time.

Unprepared for the joy of everyone on board the ship Deanna swayed under the deluge of everyone's emotions. Data's perceptive eye saw this and in a few steps stood beside her in support.

"Are you all right Counselor?" She looked up at the android and smiled openly.

"Yes Data. The joy I felt overwhelmed me for a moment, but I'm fine now. Thank you for catching me."

"No need Counselor. I'm glad you're all right." The two of them turned their gazes to the couple standing the middle of the Bridge. They looked so happy. Deanna really was happy for them, and she was proud on them as well. But inside she was hurting. She had wanted the very same thing so much for herself...with Will.

~Don't allow him to spoil the moment Little One.~

~I know mother, but I really wanted us to be a family. It hurts.~

~I know it does, but you'll pull through it. Now, go and congratulate your Captain from me.~ With a slight smile the Betazoid shook her head and walked up to the Picards.

"Mother congratulates you both." They nodded in return but were still too caught up in each other to respond vocally.

"It seems we have something to celebrate people! Counselor's orders." She called out to everyone then ordered the computer to terminate the ship-wide comm. "Take your wife home Captain. I'll take the Bridge." She smiled reassuringly and received a silent thanks as the couple headed to the Turbolift. She ordered everyone else to go as well and only allowed Data to stay on the Bridge with her. Neither had someone to go to now and after all, what could happen? 'Okay, wrong question.'

~D~