Please see authors note at beginning of story
Partial Truths-Chapter Two
The party was in full swing when they finally arrived. Immediately they were pounced upon, separated by the crowd. A drink was pressed into Kathryn's hand as an arm around her shoulders led her farther away from Chakotay. Trading the champagne for water from a passing waiter, she glanced back to find her husband, drink in hand being led in the opposite direction. He looked up suddenly and their eyes caught. A slow dimpled smile crossed his face and she smiled back.
A young lady watched, intrigued by the silent communication between husband and wife. Her eyes followed Kathryn as she turned back to the gentleman who had stolen her attention. She'd been watching the Admiral since the couple had entered the room. Dressed in a long snug fitting sparkling blue spaghetti strap dress, the girl was impressed. The Admiral certainly had taste. Her auburn her was swept back in an elegant twist and a lone silver necklace that changed to a shimmering blue when touched by the light decorated her neck. The woman's lips twitched in what might've been a smile. She was impressed. She watched as the Admiral warmly greeted the former members of her crew, hugging some, shaking hands with others. Her interest in Kathryn Janeway grew. As unobtrusively as possible, she watched as Admiral Janeway worked the room.
The evening was progressing smoothly. The former crew of Voyager milled about reminiscing on the life that used to be. Congratulations and pats on the back were dished out in abundance as promotions were revealed, engagements were announced, and parents to be were unveiled. Kathryn was amazed at the reception she and Chakotay got at the news of their newest addition.
Stepping into the background, Kathryn gazed out at the people who had come to mean so much to her. Of course Chakotay would say that she meant just as much to them as well. And she knew that. Even if it was sometimes hard to believe. But tonight when they'd announced that she was pregnant the response was overwhelming. It seemed that her former crew had been waiting for this almost as long as they'd been waiting for her and Chakotay to admit their feelings for one another. It brought tears to her eyes to see and actually feel the amount of love and respect these people had for the two of them. Kathryn knew that the words were said mostly for her benefit and for that she was grateful.
Stifling a yawn, her eyes automatically sought out Chakotay. At three months pregnant, she began to tire much more quickly than normal. Finally she spotted him laughing heartily with Harry and Ayala. She smiled. Her love for him still scared her at times but she wouldn't give it up for the world. Deciding to let him continue to enjoy himself she continued to stare until she got his attention. A moment later he looked up and caught her eye. The connection they shared on Voyager was even stronger now that they were together. His eyebrows rose in question, and she signal to the doors behind her and smiled to letting him know everything was okay and she didn't need company. His acknowledge went unnoticed by others but she saw the slight nod he gave her.
Kathryn turned toward the double doors, knowing that Chakotay's eyes would follow her until she disappeared outside. The night air was warm against her skin. The scent of fresh flowers flowed around her, engulfing her in their essence. She breathed deep, grateful for the silence. Sometimes she needed the peace of the night skies, to come and just stare out into space and find her solace. A full moon lit the area, with a few scattering stars spread here and there. She felt a sense contentment settle around her. It felt right. She was home, married to her soul mate, and expecting their first child. Life was good.
The doors opened behind her and she turned hoping it was Chakotay. A young woman stepped out and Kathryn swallowed her disappointment. Turning her back to the newcomer she raised her eyes to the stars once again, but frowned when she couldn't find the peace she'd experienced seconds ago. Kathryn forced down her irritation at the intrusion. Everyone needed a little escape now and then, she thought.
"Admiral Janeway?"
Kathryn sighed softly. So much for peace and quiet. She turned. "Yes," she said politely.
"You're a hard woman to reach."
Kathryn frowned. "I'm sorry. Do I know you?"
The woman shook her head. "No, you don't. Forgive me. My name is Neha. I've been trying to reach you for some time," she smiled sardonically. "I must say, I've never been given the run around quite so...thoroughly."
Kathryn stiffened. "I have a busy schedule. If you left a message with my assistant I'm sure I would have contacted you soon," she said neutrally.
"Uhm, I'm sure," said Neha. She walked away turning her back to Kathryn. "It's a beautiful night out, isn't it?"
A chill went through Kathryn. There was something about the young woman made her wary. Kathryn watched her watch the stars. Keeping her tone light she said, "Yes, I was just thinking how perfect of a night it's been. The reunion and all, I mean," she paused, "Are you related to one of my crew members?" she probed.
Neha turned back to Kathryn and smiled. "Your crewmembers? I didn't think Admirals had crewmembers? Do they?"
"No," Kathryn replied. Her uneasiness grew. The unanswered question didn't go unnoticed. "I just tend to think of them that way."
"I see." Neha stepped in front of Kathryn and tilted her head as if puzzled. "You think of them more than just your former crew, don't you Admiral? You consider them part of your family."
"Yes," answered Kathryn though it wasn't phrased as a question. She was rapidly losing patience with the young woman and her seemingly endless questions. Who was this woman and why was she interested in her relationship with her crew? Only a few certain members of the press had been allowed to attend the reunion in an official capacity and Kathryn had approved those individuals. Neha was not one of them.
Neha moved to walk around the Admiral and Kathryn became abruptly aware of her circumstances. Outside alone with an unknown woman, with an unknown intent who had now conveniently maneuvered herself between Kathryn and the doors leading back into the party. Tension wove its way through her body and she forced herself to relax, or at least appear that way. She was a Starfleet trained officer. She knew how to handle herself.
Neha continued to stare at Kathryn, her expression curious. Kathryn didn't know what the young woman wanted, but she didn't feel threatened. But of course, she'd learned the hard way that looks could be deceiving. Kathryn remained on alert.
"Family is very important to you. You'd do anything for them." Kathryn didn't respond, since it didn't seem to be required. "I've done a lot of research on you in the last few months," continued Neha. "You fought hard for the freedom of your "family". You even married your Maquis First Officer."
Kathryn had enough. "Look, Ms..."
"Neha. Call me Neha."
"Fine...Neha. I'm sorry but you seem to have me at a disadvantage. You know an awful lot about me but I can't say the same," said Kathryn. Her voice was polite, but there was a hard edge just under the surface that would make her former crew cringe. "I don't mean to be rude but why are you so interested in my life? It's really of no concern to you." She paused, staring at the woman thoughtfully. "Why don't you answer a few questions for me." Kathryn stepped closer to the woman, being mindful not to get to close just in case.
"How did you happen to be at the reunion tonight? Are you here as a guest? Or better yet, you can tell me why you've been trying to reach me and why did you seek me out just now. I assume that you didn't just come out here to gaze at the moonlight," she said waving her arm for emphasis. Kathryn narrowed her eyes and looked hard at Neha. "What's going on?" she demanded, trying to keep her rising anger under control, while also carefully searching the area for a quick means of escape. She wasn't afraid of this woman and knew that she could more than likely defend herself in hand to hand combat. But it wasn't only herself that she was concerned with. She would not put her unborn child's life in jeopardy just to play hero.
She needn't have to worry. The scene in front of her changed. The tall, upright, almost arrogant young woman that stood in front of her, now looked...well...dejected. Her shoulders slumped, and the spark of challenge that made her eyes glint was gone. The mocking smile that had been dancing around her lips was no longer present. She looked so... forlorn, thought Kathryn. She was a picture of sadness. Kathryn nearly gasped aloud at the abrupt transformation. What in the world was going on? What did she say to cause such an about face? Was this some kind of trick? The questions swam around inside of her head with no ready answers.
"Do you not know me at all? Neha asked so softly that Kathryn almost didn't hear the question.
Kathryn frowned. She had never seen this girl in her life. Or at least not that she could recall. "Neha..."
"Look at me," she yelled. "Do I not look familiar?"
The desperation mixed with pain in Neha's voice almost was enough to melt her heart. Kathryn tried hard to place her but for the life of her she couldn't. Even under the bright moon with it's scattering stars Kathryn could tell that she was a beautiful young woman. But this woman, this lost girl, with her long dark hair and dark eyes, was a stranger to her. She could see a faint scar high on her forehead but it was mostly hidden by her hair. Kathryn felt her suspicions regarding the young woman dissolve, as an air of utter and complete misery seemed to settle upon her at Kathryn's continued silence. Deciding to trust her instinct that Neha meant her no harm, she dropped guard. Before she could say anything Neha broke the silence.
"It's okay Admiral, I honestly didn't expect you to recognize me. I...I just hoped..." Neha sighed and walked over to a nearby stone bench and sat down.
Kathryn was indecisive. She'd been outside for quite a while now and knew that Chakotay would be worried. Nevertheless, she couldn't abandon the girl. She looked so...hopeless. Not to mention Kathryn still didn't know why the girl had sought her out in the first place. It was weird. She'd never met her, that much she knew for certain, but she felt something...a connection of some sort. Kathryn shook her head. Maybe it was just hormones. She'd heard that pregnancy did weird things to a woman's body and thinking processes. Walking over to Neha, she quietly sat beside her.
"I'm sorry," said Neha finally.
"Why?"
"For the way I approached you. I'm surprise you didn't call scream for security."
Kathryn smiled. "I thought about it," she said lightly.
Neha glanced up. "I wouldn't have blamed you. I...you had no idea who I was or what I wanted or planned on doing. I didn't mean to worry you or scare you."
Kathryn shrugged. "It's okay. You made me a bit wary, but I didn't necessarily perceive you as a real threat."
They were silent for a moment longer, then "Congratulations on your new baby."
"Thank you." Kathryn unconsciously brought her hand to her stomach. "Neha," she began, "what's this all about? Why have you been trying to reach me?" she asked softly.
Neha said nothing, but continued to look down at her hands resting on her lap. Kathryn started to repeat the question, when Neha looked up at her. Tears gathered in her eyes and Kathryn fought the urge to take the girl in her arms, instead she placed her hand over Neha's.
"I want to..." she whispered.
"Then please do. Take your time."
Neha took a deep breath. "My mother died a few months ago. It was expected. She'd been ill for some time. It seems that even with all our advancements there are some things technology still can't fix," a humorless laughed passed her lips. "I could have dealt with her death, ya know, because I knew it was coming. I could have gone the rest of my life knowing that she was at peace now and no longer suffering. I could have gone the rest of my life never knowing. It wouldn't have been difficult. Mother never let on that I was different or unwanted. I mean, I noticed things but I never questioned it and neither did my friends. Everything was fine. I really didn't need to know..." she stopped and stared sullenly at her hands again.
Kathryn gave Neha's hand a gentle squeeze. She had no idea what she talking about or what it had to do with her. But the pain was genuine and it tugged Kathryn's heartstrings. Maybe she just needed to talk a bit before she got to the point. She hoped this wouldn't take too much longer. Chakotay would become worried if she didn't resurface soon.
"I'm sorry about your mother, Neha. It sounds like you miss her very much."
"I do. I really do. But...she lied to me. They all lied to me."
"What are you talking about? And what does this have to do with me?" Kathryn questioned gently.
Neha swallowed hard. "She's not my mother," she whispered and Kathryn could here the agony those words produce for her.
To be continued...
Partial Truths-Chapter Two
The party was in full swing when they finally arrived. Immediately they were pounced upon, separated by the crowd. A drink was pressed into Kathryn's hand as an arm around her shoulders led her farther away from Chakotay. Trading the champagne for water from a passing waiter, she glanced back to find her husband, drink in hand being led in the opposite direction. He looked up suddenly and their eyes caught. A slow dimpled smile crossed his face and she smiled back.
A young lady watched, intrigued by the silent communication between husband and wife. Her eyes followed Kathryn as she turned back to the gentleman who had stolen her attention. She'd been watching the Admiral since the couple had entered the room. Dressed in a long snug fitting sparkling blue spaghetti strap dress, the girl was impressed. The Admiral certainly had taste. Her auburn her was swept back in an elegant twist and a lone silver necklace that changed to a shimmering blue when touched by the light decorated her neck. The woman's lips twitched in what might've been a smile. She was impressed. She watched as the Admiral warmly greeted the former members of her crew, hugging some, shaking hands with others. Her interest in Kathryn Janeway grew. As unobtrusively as possible, she watched as Admiral Janeway worked the room.
The evening was progressing smoothly. The former crew of Voyager milled about reminiscing on the life that used to be. Congratulations and pats on the back were dished out in abundance as promotions were revealed, engagements were announced, and parents to be were unveiled. Kathryn was amazed at the reception she and Chakotay got at the news of their newest addition.
Stepping into the background, Kathryn gazed out at the people who had come to mean so much to her. Of course Chakotay would say that she meant just as much to them as well. And she knew that. Even if it was sometimes hard to believe. But tonight when they'd announced that she was pregnant the response was overwhelming. It seemed that her former crew had been waiting for this almost as long as they'd been waiting for her and Chakotay to admit their feelings for one another. It brought tears to her eyes to see and actually feel the amount of love and respect these people had for the two of them. Kathryn knew that the words were said mostly for her benefit and for that she was grateful.
Stifling a yawn, her eyes automatically sought out Chakotay. At three months pregnant, she began to tire much more quickly than normal. Finally she spotted him laughing heartily with Harry and Ayala. She smiled. Her love for him still scared her at times but she wouldn't give it up for the world. Deciding to let him continue to enjoy himself she continued to stare until she got his attention. A moment later he looked up and caught her eye. The connection they shared on Voyager was even stronger now that they were together. His eyebrows rose in question, and she signal to the doors behind her and smiled to letting him know everything was okay and she didn't need company. His acknowledge went unnoticed by others but she saw the slight nod he gave her.
Kathryn turned toward the double doors, knowing that Chakotay's eyes would follow her until she disappeared outside. The night air was warm against her skin. The scent of fresh flowers flowed around her, engulfing her in their essence. She breathed deep, grateful for the silence. Sometimes she needed the peace of the night skies, to come and just stare out into space and find her solace. A full moon lit the area, with a few scattering stars spread here and there. She felt a sense contentment settle around her. It felt right. She was home, married to her soul mate, and expecting their first child. Life was good.
The doors opened behind her and she turned hoping it was Chakotay. A young woman stepped out and Kathryn swallowed her disappointment. Turning her back to the newcomer she raised her eyes to the stars once again, but frowned when she couldn't find the peace she'd experienced seconds ago. Kathryn forced down her irritation at the intrusion. Everyone needed a little escape now and then, she thought.
"Admiral Janeway?"
Kathryn sighed softly. So much for peace and quiet. She turned. "Yes," she said politely.
"You're a hard woman to reach."
Kathryn frowned. "I'm sorry. Do I know you?"
The woman shook her head. "No, you don't. Forgive me. My name is Neha. I've been trying to reach you for some time," she smiled sardonically. "I must say, I've never been given the run around quite so...thoroughly."
Kathryn stiffened. "I have a busy schedule. If you left a message with my assistant I'm sure I would have contacted you soon," she said neutrally.
"Uhm, I'm sure," said Neha. She walked away turning her back to Kathryn. "It's a beautiful night out, isn't it?"
A chill went through Kathryn. There was something about the young woman made her wary. Kathryn watched her watch the stars. Keeping her tone light she said, "Yes, I was just thinking how perfect of a night it's been. The reunion and all, I mean," she paused, "Are you related to one of my crew members?" she probed.
Neha turned back to Kathryn and smiled. "Your crewmembers? I didn't think Admirals had crewmembers? Do they?"
"No," Kathryn replied. Her uneasiness grew. The unanswered question didn't go unnoticed. "I just tend to think of them that way."
"I see." Neha stepped in front of Kathryn and tilted her head as if puzzled. "You think of them more than just your former crew, don't you Admiral? You consider them part of your family."
"Yes," answered Kathryn though it wasn't phrased as a question. She was rapidly losing patience with the young woman and her seemingly endless questions. Who was this woman and why was she interested in her relationship with her crew? Only a few certain members of the press had been allowed to attend the reunion in an official capacity and Kathryn had approved those individuals. Neha was not one of them.
Neha moved to walk around the Admiral and Kathryn became abruptly aware of her circumstances. Outside alone with an unknown woman, with an unknown intent who had now conveniently maneuvered herself between Kathryn and the doors leading back into the party. Tension wove its way through her body and she forced herself to relax, or at least appear that way. She was a Starfleet trained officer. She knew how to handle herself.
Neha continued to stare at Kathryn, her expression curious. Kathryn didn't know what the young woman wanted, but she didn't feel threatened. But of course, she'd learned the hard way that looks could be deceiving. Kathryn remained on alert.
"Family is very important to you. You'd do anything for them." Kathryn didn't respond, since it didn't seem to be required. "I've done a lot of research on you in the last few months," continued Neha. "You fought hard for the freedom of your "family". You even married your Maquis First Officer."
Kathryn had enough. "Look, Ms..."
"Neha. Call me Neha."
"Fine...Neha. I'm sorry but you seem to have me at a disadvantage. You know an awful lot about me but I can't say the same," said Kathryn. Her voice was polite, but there was a hard edge just under the surface that would make her former crew cringe. "I don't mean to be rude but why are you so interested in my life? It's really of no concern to you." She paused, staring at the woman thoughtfully. "Why don't you answer a few questions for me." Kathryn stepped closer to the woman, being mindful not to get to close just in case.
"How did you happen to be at the reunion tonight? Are you here as a guest? Or better yet, you can tell me why you've been trying to reach me and why did you seek me out just now. I assume that you didn't just come out here to gaze at the moonlight," she said waving her arm for emphasis. Kathryn narrowed her eyes and looked hard at Neha. "What's going on?" she demanded, trying to keep her rising anger under control, while also carefully searching the area for a quick means of escape. She wasn't afraid of this woman and knew that she could more than likely defend herself in hand to hand combat. But it wasn't only herself that she was concerned with. She would not put her unborn child's life in jeopardy just to play hero.
She needn't have to worry. The scene in front of her changed. The tall, upright, almost arrogant young woman that stood in front of her, now looked...well...dejected. Her shoulders slumped, and the spark of challenge that made her eyes glint was gone. The mocking smile that had been dancing around her lips was no longer present. She looked so... forlorn, thought Kathryn. She was a picture of sadness. Kathryn nearly gasped aloud at the abrupt transformation. What in the world was going on? What did she say to cause such an about face? Was this some kind of trick? The questions swam around inside of her head with no ready answers.
"Do you not know me at all? Neha asked so softly that Kathryn almost didn't hear the question.
Kathryn frowned. She had never seen this girl in her life. Or at least not that she could recall. "Neha..."
"Look at me," she yelled. "Do I not look familiar?"
The desperation mixed with pain in Neha's voice almost was enough to melt her heart. Kathryn tried hard to place her but for the life of her she couldn't. Even under the bright moon with it's scattering stars Kathryn could tell that she was a beautiful young woman. But this woman, this lost girl, with her long dark hair and dark eyes, was a stranger to her. She could see a faint scar high on her forehead but it was mostly hidden by her hair. Kathryn felt her suspicions regarding the young woman dissolve, as an air of utter and complete misery seemed to settle upon her at Kathryn's continued silence. Deciding to trust her instinct that Neha meant her no harm, she dropped guard. Before she could say anything Neha broke the silence.
"It's okay Admiral, I honestly didn't expect you to recognize me. I...I just hoped..." Neha sighed and walked over to a nearby stone bench and sat down.
Kathryn was indecisive. She'd been outside for quite a while now and knew that Chakotay would be worried. Nevertheless, she couldn't abandon the girl. She looked so...hopeless. Not to mention Kathryn still didn't know why the girl had sought her out in the first place. It was weird. She'd never met her, that much she knew for certain, but she felt something...a connection of some sort. Kathryn shook her head. Maybe it was just hormones. She'd heard that pregnancy did weird things to a woman's body and thinking processes. Walking over to Neha, she quietly sat beside her.
"I'm sorry," said Neha finally.
"Why?"
"For the way I approached you. I'm surprise you didn't call scream for security."
Kathryn smiled. "I thought about it," she said lightly.
Neha glanced up. "I wouldn't have blamed you. I...you had no idea who I was or what I wanted or planned on doing. I didn't mean to worry you or scare you."
Kathryn shrugged. "It's okay. You made me a bit wary, but I didn't necessarily perceive you as a real threat."
They were silent for a moment longer, then "Congratulations on your new baby."
"Thank you." Kathryn unconsciously brought her hand to her stomach. "Neha," she began, "what's this all about? Why have you been trying to reach me?" she asked softly.
Neha said nothing, but continued to look down at her hands resting on her lap. Kathryn started to repeat the question, when Neha looked up at her. Tears gathered in her eyes and Kathryn fought the urge to take the girl in her arms, instead she placed her hand over Neha's.
"I want to..." she whispered.
"Then please do. Take your time."
Neha took a deep breath. "My mother died a few months ago. It was expected. She'd been ill for some time. It seems that even with all our advancements there are some things technology still can't fix," a humorless laughed passed her lips. "I could have dealt with her death, ya know, because I knew it was coming. I could have gone the rest of my life knowing that she was at peace now and no longer suffering. I could have gone the rest of my life never knowing. It wouldn't have been difficult. Mother never let on that I was different or unwanted. I mean, I noticed things but I never questioned it and neither did my friends. Everything was fine. I really didn't need to know..." she stopped and stared sullenly at her hands again.
Kathryn gave Neha's hand a gentle squeeze. She had no idea what she talking about or what it had to do with her. But the pain was genuine and it tugged Kathryn's heartstrings. Maybe she just needed to talk a bit before she got to the point. She hoped this wouldn't take too much longer. Chakotay would become worried if she didn't resurface soon.
"I'm sorry about your mother, Neha. It sounds like you miss her very much."
"I do. I really do. But...she lied to me. They all lied to me."
"What are you talking about? And what does this have to do with me?" Kathryn questioned gently.
Neha swallowed hard. "She's not my mother," she whispered and Kathryn could here the agony those words produce for her.
To be continued...
