"Come," Captain Janeway said toward the door to her ready room. The Doctor
strode in and waited for her to put her PADD down. "I hope this is
important Doctor, I'm extremely busy." With only 13 days left until they
reached the wormhole the Captain was becoming increasingly stressed.
"I can assure you it is Captain," The Doctor said seriously.
"Go ahead."
"Captain I need several more replicator rations."
"Replicator rations? That's what's so important."
"Yes Captain."
"Do you require more supplies in sickbay?"
"No, this is a personal request."
"May I ask what you need them for?" Her curiosity peaked.
"I need to replicate a ring." He paused.
"A ring?"
"Yes, an engagement ring for Seven."
The Captain stared at him in dumb shock. She was utterly speechless. "You're going to ask Seven to marry you?"
"No, I already have and she's accepted."
"I see." The Captain said slowly. "Doctor I wish you had come to me first."
"I was not aware it was ship's policy to ask the Captain permission before proposing to the woman you love. Besides," he smiled, "it was somewhat spontaneous."
She sighed, "It's not a policy Doctor, but I think the two of you are a special case."
His jaw hardened and he braced himself for a fight he honestly didn't think he would have to fight. "Your hesitation is because I'm a hologram right."
"Doctor it would be absurd for us to ignore that fact. I'm surprised you and Seven hadn't thought of it yet."
"We had discussed the fact that back in the alpha quadrant we would encounter some prejudice, but I never would have expected it here."
"Doctor please sit down." She pointed to her couch and he sat stiffly. "First understand that I care a great deal about you and Seven and I'm delighted that you've found happiness with each other. I just can't help but feel like your engagement came on rather suddenly. My understanding is that you've only been dating a couple of months."
"Captain."
"No, let me finish. You're right, I normally would not require permission for an engagement, but to my knowledge no hologram has ever proposed marriage."
"So then your answer is no."
"I didn't say that I just want you to understand that even if I allow the two of you to marry, there is no telling what will happen when we return to the alpha quadrant."
"Captain we realize that our marriage may not be accepted by everyone in Starfleet, but that doesn't matter. The only thing that matters to us is that we love each other and that the people we love honor and accept us for who we are, not what we are. Please captain I love her so much and without her I can't even begin to see my future. Please don't end this before it begins."
The Captain had tears in her eyes as the Doctor spoke these impassioned words. "Permission granted."
The Doctor was so overjoyed he nearly hugged her. "Thank you Captain, and we hope you will honor us by performing the ceremony."
"It is I who would be honored Doctor."
"Excuse me Captain, I have an engagement ring to pick out."
"Of course Doctor."
He practically ran out of her ready room eager to find the perfect ring for the most amazing woman he had ever known.
"Seven, can you pass me that isolinear scanner." Belanna Torres called from her workstation. "Seven? Hellooo, are you there Seven?"
Seven's head jerked up roused from her daydream. She searched for the scanner dropping it once before handing it off to Belanna.
"What is your problem lately," Belanna asked slightly annoyed. She was always slightly annoyed with Seven. "You've been staring into space all day."
Seven sighed annoyed with herself. "I apologize, I will try to be more productive."
Instantly Belanna felt bad for yelling at her. She had expected a cold response not an apology. She couldn't remember the last time the borg queen had apologized for anything. "Don't worry about it, I guess I'm just anxious about this wormhole business. Chakotay wants a report on the status of the warp engines by 1900 hours and I know he only wants to hear good things."
Seven nodded and returned to her screen. "May I ask you a personal question Lieutenant?"
Belanna looked up wearily. She never liked when Seven began a conversation that way, or anyone else for that matter. "You can ask but I'm not promising I'll answer."
Nodding slightly she proceeded. "Are you apprehensive about returning to the alpha quadrant?"
"Oh," she said surprised at the question. "I would be lying if I said I was completely comfortable with the idea of finally being home, but I think most of the crew feels that way. We've all had this common goal all these years and it's scary to think our journey is finally over. Not to mention what might be waiting for some of us when we get there."
"Do you fear imprisonment?"
"It's not something I like to think about, but I know it's a possibility. I have confidence in Captain Janeway though. I know she'll fight for all of us." She paused before continuing. "Are you worried about returning Seven?"
"Worry is irrelevant."
"Right." Belanna rolled her eyes slightly. "Regardless of whether or not it's relevant Seven, you are human and you can feel uneasiness about this."
"I did experience a certain level of discomfort when Captain Janeway and I received the sensor data confirming that the wormhole led to the Alpha Quadrant."
"Are you worried about how people home will react to you?"
"No, that is something I have grown accustomed to."
"Then why all the questions Seven?"
She paused not sure if she should reveal her true worries to the engineer. "I have been concerned with the Doctor." She blurted out.
Belanna smiled knowingly. Being involved with the ship's answer to a society columnist had its perks. Tom had updated her almost daily about the progress of Seven and the Doctor's relationship. "I wouldn't worry too much about him. I have no doubt that Captain Janeway will fight for him if the need arises. You know Seven I used to think the Federation was full of power hungry beauracrats intent on putting their own goals before the good of the people. I left Starfleet academy pretty jaded, but serving all these years with people who have devoted their lives for Starfleet and the Federation makes you gain a new perspective. There are always going to be people more interested in their own goals than the well being of everyone else. But we're a family on Voyager and if we have to we'll fight for each other." Belanna walked over to Seven and in an uncharacteristic act of friendship placed her hand on her shoulder. "That includes you and the Doctor."
Seven looked up in surprise, but smiled gratefully. "If you'll excuse me I have someone I need to speak with." She walked to the door before glancing back and murmuring "Thank you Belanna" then she quickly left the room. In sickbay the Doctor triumphantly held up a small ring. "It's a beauty Doc." Tom observed.
"Do you think she'll like it?" He asked anxiously.
"Of course she will. You've already gotten her to say yes what's left to worry about." Tom was still amazed by the fact that Seven was actually going to marry the Doc. Who would have ever thought it would happen. "Have the two of you set a date for the big day."
"Actually I only just informed the Captain of our engagement this afternoon."
Tom let out a low whistle, "How'd she take it?"
"Great," the Doctor lied. "She couldn't be happier for us." Well at least that part was true, he hoped. Truthfully, the Doctor didn't want anyone to know that the Captain had had concerns about their union. He didn't want it to get back to Seven, it would only upset her. As if on queue the door to sickbay opened and Seven strolled in. The Doctor had to act quickly to get the ring out of sight. "Hello Seven."
"Doctor, Tom." She acknowledged formally.
"Congratulations Seven," Tom said. "I'm really happy for the two of you."
She glanced at the Doctor, "I was not aware that we were informing the crew of our engagement yet."
The Doctor smiled at her. "They'll have to find out sooner or later Seven. Besides I want to shout the news out over the comm system."
She raised an eyebrow at him. "I wanted to speak with you, but if you're busy it can wait."
"I'll leave." Tom volunteered. "I have to input the new sensor data we just received from the wormhole into the conn anyway. Looks like my days as this ship's field medic are numbered. I know the Doc is probably ecstatic."
"I wouldn't say ecstatic." The Doc smiled slyly.
"I'll see you later." Tom laughed leaving sickbay.
"So what's brought you to sickbay Seven," the Doctor asked when Tom had left. "Not that you need any excuse."
"I just wanted to be alone with you."
The Doctor smiled and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Have I told you how much I love you today?"
"Yes."
"Well then I'll say it again. I love you Seven." He kissed her gently on the end of her nose and then led her to his office. "I have something I wanted to give to you. Sit." She did and he opened his hand. In his palm she saw a small ring. It was a thin band of white gold with delicate etchings and a small diamond in the center. "Do you like it?" He asked anxiously.
"It's beautiful," she said breathlessly. "Thank you."
He cupped her face with his hand. "You're welcome. I couldn't let my bride to be go without an engagement ring."
"No, not just for the ring, for everything. I have never felt so loved and accepted." She reached for him and kissed him passionately. "I love you so much."
"I. love you. too." He responded between kisses. "I don't think I've ever wanted my own quarters more." He laughed. "You know," he began thoughtfully. "There are a lot of things we haven't discussed. The engagement was kind of sudden."
"I know."
"We really need to talk about a few things before we get married."
"I know." She said again.
"There have been a few things on my mind that are really nagging at me." He paused uncomfortably not quite sure where to begin.
"There's nothing you couldn't tell me," she said trying to reassure him. "I'm sure whatever you're worried about is nothing."
"No Seven, there are a few things I don't think you've fully thought out. Things you'd have to give up by marrying me. I guess what I'm afraid of is once I bring them up you won't want to go through with the marriage."
She shook her head vehemently. "Nothing you say will make me change my mind. Nothing, I swear."
"No, don't swear. I want you to really think about what I'm going to say before you answer." He took a deep breath before continuing. "You realize if you marry me you will never be a mother. We will never be able to have a child." She started to speak, but he cut her off. "Before you answer I want you to think about this. Right now a child is the last thing on your mind, but you're still young. One day you might regret being tied down to a person who will never be able to give you a child.
She held both of his hands in hers when she responded. "I won't say I haven't thought about having children, because the truth is I have, but when I compare the idea of having a child to being loved by you everyday for the rest of my life there's no question." He started to speak, but this time she cut him off. "Doctor, if having a child is something that we both want, then it will happen. There are other ways of becoming a parent besides the natural ways."
"That's not the only thing Seven, we haven't discussed this yet, but it has to be said. Seven I am a computer program. A simulation, albeit a pretty sophisticated simulation, but when it comes down to it I depend on technology to exist. On Voyager it's Ok. The crew respects me as a person, but when we get to Earth who knows what will happen. I need to know you understand that some people will not approve of a hologram being married to a human."
She grabbed him in a fierce hug. "It doesn't matter, none of it matters. I love you and that's the end of it. I want to marry you, to be your wife and spend the rest of my life making you as happy as I am right now."
Surprised by her sudden and uncharacteristic display of emotions tears came to his eyes and he returned her hug. "I guess my last question is when do you want to have the ceremony.
She smiled but then turned serious. "We have to get married right away." She said adamantly. "Before we reach the wormhole. I don't even want to wait another day. Captain Janeway can marry us now."
"Are you sure? We don't even have our own quarters on Voyager. I don't know about you, but the Cargo Bay isn't exactly my idea of a honeymoon suite."
"All of that is irrelevant. We have to be married before we enter the wormhole." Her anxiety was beginning to peak at the idea he might actually refuse her.
He sensed she was becoming agitated so he quickly agreed. "Whatever makes you happy darling." She looked at him peculiarly. "What?" he asked.
"That is the first time you ever called me that."
"What?"
"The first time you called me darling."
"Oh."
"I think I like it."
"I like saying it." He smiled and kissed her again.
"Chakotay, I'm sure you've heard the news." The Captain and Commander were sitting in her quarters eating a small meal while reviewing department status reports. With less than two weeks left until they reached the wormhole they had found themselves increasingly busy and increasingly stressed. Chakotay had suggested working in a more relaxed atmosphere.
"The news? Which news?"
"The news about Seven and the Doctor's engagement."
"Oh that news." Chakotay sighed and leaned back in his chair. "I was wondering when you were going to bring that up. Amazing isn't it."
"Yeah," she mumbled.
"Kathryn what's wrong?"
She sighed. "Tuvok came to me this morning. He brought up a few issues I was pushing off dealing with."
"Issues about Seven and the Doctor?"
"Not only them Chakotay."
He nodded in understanding. "So it begins already. You knew we were going to have to deal with these issues sooner or later."
"I would just as soon not deal with them at all." She said angrily throwing her napkin down and standing up. "In my eyes you're no longer a maquis, you're my first officer and my closest friend. The same goes for all the former maquis. They're our crew, our family. And the Doctor isn't just a hologram, not to me. How am I going to make the Federation understand that?"
Chakotay stood up and put his arms around her. "Not just you Kathryn, you and I together. You can't worry about what the Federation might or might not do. You can't control everything. The crew will be fine no matter what happens. We'll make sure of it."
"Tuvok raised another interesting point this morning." She said parting from him.
"Well he was just full a sunshine wasn't he." Chakotay smirked regaining his seat, glad he had calmed at least one of her worries. "What other bits of sunshine did he lay on you this morning?"
She gave him a look before responding. "He's only being Tuvok. He said a marriage between Seven and the Doctor might not be legal."
"And what did you say?"
"I told him it might not be illegal."
He smiled flashing his dimples at her. "So you've decided to marry them?"
"I never had any intention of saying no. I spoke with Seven yesterday and she is adamant about being married before we reach the wormhole. I think she has the same thoughts Tuvok has. The two of them think a lot alike. Besides after I found out about their engagement I did a little research and found something encouraging."
"Oh?"
"Years ago, before I was even a Captain I remembered receiving a news brief about this ground breaking legal precedent concerning the android serving aboard the Enterprise."
"You mean Commander Data of the Enterprises."
"Yes. Anyway the brief talked about the fact that Captain Picard had fought and won for his right to self-determination. I think our Doctor will fall under that judgment, making it perfectly acceptable for him to get married."
"It sounds like you've thought of everything, so why aren't you calm."
She looked down at her hands and whispered. "I'm so scared Chakotay." He nodded understanding. "Ever since we found that wormhole I've been so happy. I can finally see light at the end of the tunnel. But at the same time something has been nagging in the back of my mind. The truth is I feel safe here. I'm used to it. When we enter that wormhole everything will change. I just don't know if I can deal with that." For the second time in that night Chakotay went to her and enveloped her in his arms.
"I know Kathryn. Don't you think I have the same thoughts? The future is so uncertain, but I promise you I will never leave you. Don't you know that I would go to the ends of the universe to make sure you were happy and safe? I love you Kathryn." Immediately he knew he had said too much. He had intended to comfort her, not bare his soul. He could feel her tense slightly in his arms. She hadn't expected to hear a confession any more than he expected to give her one.
Suddenly the door to her quarters chimed and they jumped apart. "Come." She said trying to calm her breathing.
Seven and the Doctor strode into her quarters hand in hand. "Captain we must speak to you," Seven blurted before she realized the Captain was not alone.
"That is if you have a minute," the Doctor interjected tactfully.
"Of course. We were just finishing dinner. What can I do for the two of you?" The Captain asked.
The Doctor smiled at Seven lovingly before answering, "we would like you to marry us. Tonight."
Commander Chakotay raised his eyebrow in surprise. "Tonight?"
"Yes, we wish to be married tonight." Seven responded.
"Don't you think this is a bit sudden Seven?" The Captain asked. She had always felt protective of Seven and she had to be sure Seven wasn't making a rash decision.
"I have agreed to marry the Doctor. What is the difference if I marry him tonight or in the future? I am not concerned with the superficialities of all that a traditional human wedding entails."
The Captain smiled. "I guess when you put it that way. There are still a few things we need to perform a wedding. We would need a witness and a ring."
"We would be honored if Commander Chakotay stood as our witness," the Doctor spoke up. "And we already have a ring."
"It would seem you've run out of problems Captain." Commander Chakotay piped up smiling.
"It would seem. Ok you win Seven. Meet us in my ready room in 30 minutes."
"Thank you Captain." She said before leading the Doctor out of her quarters.
As soon as they left Kathryn immediately felt awkward. She wondered what Chakotay had meant when he said he loved her. Surely he must have meant as friends. She loved him also, he was a part of her life. Maybe she was reading too much into this. She had been upset, maybe the words were just a way to bring her comfort. She didn't have time to dwell on the matter immediately though, she had a wedding to perform. "Join me in my ready room Commander?"
"I would be honored Captain?"
The ceremony had been simple, yet beautiful. As Seven and the Doctor spoke vows of love and life long commitment Commander Chakotay could not help but be slightly envious. He was very happy that these two outsiders whose lives were more lonely than not had found true happiness with each other, but he could not help thinking of Kathryn. He wondered what their return to the alpha quadrant would do to their friendship. And he wondered how he could have been so unguarded. For over five years he had been careful not to reveal too much of his heart. He knew even if she returned his feelings there could be nothing between them. She was the Captain and he knew no amount of persuasion would make her abandon that. To let her know of his feelings would only be selfish and he wouldn't do it. He resolved to never again mention what had been said in her quarters. At least not while she was still his Captain.
Seven and the Doctor had been married for two weeks. Each day was very happy for both of them and they were never separated for very long. As a wedding present the Captain had given them their own quarters and it was slowly being filled with gifts from the rest of the crew. Much to Seven's surprise the crew had embraced the first marriage aboard Voyager with great joy. Neelix had of course thrown a lavish party for the two of them and everyone who could make it made an effort to show up and congratulate the newlyweds. The crews enlightened spirits were not completely due to the impromptu wedding, with each passing day they got closer to the wormhole and they were certain that their next big celebration would be their homecoming.
The energy on the bridge was at a fevered pitch as they finally reached the wormhole. "Ensign Kim, prepare to launch a probe into the wormhole." Captain Janeway sat at the edge of her chair in eager anticipation. The probe was only a final safety measurement. Since its discovery and the knowledge of its final destination the crew had been preparing the ship for the journey through the wormhole. They had analyzed sensor data until they had memorized it. No crew had ever been more prepared for a mission than this one at this time.
"Probe launched Captain." After a pause Harry continued. "We're already receiving data."
"Re-route that data to Engineering, Tactical and the Conn. When all departments report ready we'll head in."
The wait was excruciating, but finally Tuvok spoke up, "All departments report ready, Captain."
She took a deep breath before saying, "take us in Tom.
"I can assure you it is Captain," The Doctor said seriously.
"Go ahead."
"Captain I need several more replicator rations."
"Replicator rations? That's what's so important."
"Yes Captain."
"Do you require more supplies in sickbay?"
"No, this is a personal request."
"May I ask what you need them for?" Her curiosity peaked.
"I need to replicate a ring." He paused.
"A ring?"
"Yes, an engagement ring for Seven."
The Captain stared at him in dumb shock. She was utterly speechless. "You're going to ask Seven to marry you?"
"No, I already have and she's accepted."
"I see." The Captain said slowly. "Doctor I wish you had come to me first."
"I was not aware it was ship's policy to ask the Captain permission before proposing to the woman you love. Besides," he smiled, "it was somewhat spontaneous."
She sighed, "It's not a policy Doctor, but I think the two of you are a special case."
His jaw hardened and he braced himself for a fight he honestly didn't think he would have to fight. "Your hesitation is because I'm a hologram right."
"Doctor it would be absurd for us to ignore that fact. I'm surprised you and Seven hadn't thought of it yet."
"We had discussed the fact that back in the alpha quadrant we would encounter some prejudice, but I never would have expected it here."
"Doctor please sit down." She pointed to her couch and he sat stiffly. "First understand that I care a great deal about you and Seven and I'm delighted that you've found happiness with each other. I just can't help but feel like your engagement came on rather suddenly. My understanding is that you've only been dating a couple of months."
"Captain."
"No, let me finish. You're right, I normally would not require permission for an engagement, but to my knowledge no hologram has ever proposed marriage."
"So then your answer is no."
"I didn't say that I just want you to understand that even if I allow the two of you to marry, there is no telling what will happen when we return to the alpha quadrant."
"Captain we realize that our marriage may not be accepted by everyone in Starfleet, but that doesn't matter. The only thing that matters to us is that we love each other and that the people we love honor and accept us for who we are, not what we are. Please captain I love her so much and without her I can't even begin to see my future. Please don't end this before it begins."
The Captain had tears in her eyes as the Doctor spoke these impassioned words. "Permission granted."
The Doctor was so overjoyed he nearly hugged her. "Thank you Captain, and we hope you will honor us by performing the ceremony."
"It is I who would be honored Doctor."
"Excuse me Captain, I have an engagement ring to pick out."
"Of course Doctor."
He practically ran out of her ready room eager to find the perfect ring for the most amazing woman he had ever known.
"Seven, can you pass me that isolinear scanner." Belanna Torres called from her workstation. "Seven? Hellooo, are you there Seven?"
Seven's head jerked up roused from her daydream. She searched for the scanner dropping it once before handing it off to Belanna.
"What is your problem lately," Belanna asked slightly annoyed. She was always slightly annoyed with Seven. "You've been staring into space all day."
Seven sighed annoyed with herself. "I apologize, I will try to be more productive."
Instantly Belanna felt bad for yelling at her. She had expected a cold response not an apology. She couldn't remember the last time the borg queen had apologized for anything. "Don't worry about it, I guess I'm just anxious about this wormhole business. Chakotay wants a report on the status of the warp engines by 1900 hours and I know he only wants to hear good things."
Seven nodded and returned to her screen. "May I ask you a personal question Lieutenant?"
Belanna looked up wearily. She never liked when Seven began a conversation that way, or anyone else for that matter. "You can ask but I'm not promising I'll answer."
Nodding slightly she proceeded. "Are you apprehensive about returning to the alpha quadrant?"
"Oh," she said surprised at the question. "I would be lying if I said I was completely comfortable with the idea of finally being home, but I think most of the crew feels that way. We've all had this common goal all these years and it's scary to think our journey is finally over. Not to mention what might be waiting for some of us when we get there."
"Do you fear imprisonment?"
"It's not something I like to think about, but I know it's a possibility. I have confidence in Captain Janeway though. I know she'll fight for all of us." She paused before continuing. "Are you worried about returning Seven?"
"Worry is irrelevant."
"Right." Belanna rolled her eyes slightly. "Regardless of whether or not it's relevant Seven, you are human and you can feel uneasiness about this."
"I did experience a certain level of discomfort when Captain Janeway and I received the sensor data confirming that the wormhole led to the Alpha Quadrant."
"Are you worried about how people home will react to you?"
"No, that is something I have grown accustomed to."
"Then why all the questions Seven?"
She paused not sure if she should reveal her true worries to the engineer. "I have been concerned with the Doctor." She blurted out.
Belanna smiled knowingly. Being involved with the ship's answer to a society columnist had its perks. Tom had updated her almost daily about the progress of Seven and the Doctor's relationship. "I wouldn't worry too much about him. I have no doubt that Captain Janeway will fight for him if the need arises. You know Seven I used to think the Federation was full of power hungry beauracrats intent on putting their own goals before the good of the people. I left Starfleet academy pretty jaded, but serving all these years with people who have devoted their lives for Starfleet and the Federation makes you gain a new perspective. There are always going to be people more interested in their own goals than the well being of everyone else. But we're a family on Voyager and if we have to we'll fight for each other." Belanna walked over to Seven and in an uncharacteristic act of friendship placed her hand on her shoulder. "That includes you and the Doctor."
Seven looked up in surprise, but smiled gratefully. "If you'll excuse me I have someone I need to speak with." She walked to the door before glancing back and murmuring "Thank you Belanna" then she quickly left the room. In sickbay the Doctor triumphantly held up a small ring. "It's a beauty Doc." Tom observed.
"Do you think she'll like it?" He asked anxiously.
"Of course she will. You've already gotten her to say yes what's left to worry about." Tom was still amazed by the fact that Seven was actually going to marry the Doc. Who would have ever thought it would happen. "Have the two of you set a date for the big day."
"Actually I only just informed the Captain of our engagement this afternoon."
Tom let out a low whistle, "How'd she take it?"
"Great," the Doctor lied. "She couldn't be happier for us." Well at least that part was true, he hoped. Truthfully, the Doctor didn't want anyone to know that the Captain had had concerns about their union. He didn't want it to get back to Seven, it would only upset her. As if on queue the door to sickbay opened and Seven strolled in. The Doctor had to act quickly to get the ring out of sight. "Hello Seven."
"Doctor, Tom." She acknowledged formally.
"Congratulations Seven," Tom said. "I'm really happy for the two of you."
She glanced at the Doctor, "I was not aware that we were informing the crew of our engagement yet."
The Doctor smiled at her. "They'll have to find out sooner or later Seven. Besides I want to shout the news out over the comm system."
She raised an eyebrow at him. "I wanted to speak with you, but if you're busy it can wait."
"I'll leave." Tom volunteered. "I have to input the new sensor data we just received from the wormhole into the conn anyway. Looks like my days as this ship's field medic are numbered. I know the Doc is probably ecstatic."
"I wouldn't say ecstatic." The Doc smiled slyly.
"I'll see you later." Tom laughed leaving sickbay.
"So what's brought you to sickbay Seven," the Doctor asked when Tom had left. "Not that you need any excuse."
"I just wanted to be alone with you."
The Doctor smiled and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Have I told you how much I love you today?"
"Yes."
"Well then I'll say it again. I love you Seven." He kissed her gently on the end of her nose and then led her to his office. "I have something I wanted to give to you. Sit." She did and he opened his hand. In his palm she saw a small ring. It was a thin band of white gold with delicate etchings and a small diamond in the center. "Do you like it?" He asked anxiously.
"It's beautiful," she said breathlessly. "Thank you."
He cupped her face with his hand. "You're welcome. I couldn't let my bride to be go without an engagement ring."
"No, not just for the ring, for everything. I have never felt so loved and accepted." She reached for him and kissed him passionately. "I love you so much."
"I. love you. too." He responded between kisses. "I don't think I've ever wanted my own quarters more." He laughed. "You know," he began thoughtfully. "There are a lot of things we haven't discussed. The engagement was kind of sudden."
"I know."
"We really need to talk about a few things before we get married."
"I know." She said again.
"There have been a few things on my mind that are really nagging at me." He paused uncomfortably not quite sure where to begin.
"There's nothing you couldn't tell me," she said trying to reassure him. "I'm sure whatever you're worried about is nothing."
"No Seven, there are a few things I don't think you've fully thought out. Things you'd have to give up by marrying me. I guess what I'm afraid of is once I bring them up you won't want to go through with the marriage."
She shook her head vehemently. "Nothing you say will make me change my mind. Nothing, I swear."
"No, don't swear. I want you to really think about what I'm going to say before you answer." He took a deep breath before continuing. "You realize if you marry me you will never be a mother. We will never be able to have a child." She started to speak, but he cut her off. "Before you answer I want you to think about this. Right now a child is the last thing on your mind, but you're still young. One day you might regret being tied down to a person who will never be able to give you a child.
She held both of his hands in hers when she responded. "I won't say I haven't thought about having children, because the truth is I have, but when I compare the idea of having a child to being loved by you everyday for the rest of my life there's no question." He started to speak, but this time she cut him off. "Doctor, if having a child is something that we both want, then it will happen. There are other ways of becoming a parent besides the natural ways."
"That's not the only thing Seven, we haven't discussed this yet, but it has to be said. Seven I am a computer program. A simulation, albeit a pretty sophisticated simulation, but when it comes down to it I depend on technology to exist. On Voyager it's Ok. The crew respects me as a person, but when we get to Earth who knows what will happen. I need to know you understand that some people will not approve of a hologram being married to a human."
She grabbed him in a fierce hug. "It doesn't matter, none of it matters. I love you and that's the end of it. I want to marry you, to be your wife and spend the rest of my life making you as happy as I am right now."
Surprised by her sudden and uncharacteristic display of emotions tears came to his eyes and he returned her hug. "I guess my last question is when do you want to have the ceremony.
She smiled but then turned serious. "We have to get married right away." She said adamantly. "Before we reach the wormhole. I don't even want to wait another day. Captain Janeway can marry us now."
"Are you sure? We don't even have our own quarters on Voyager. I don't know about you, but the Cargo Bay isn't exactly my idea of a honeymoon suite."
"All of that is irrelevant. We have to be married before we enter the wormhole." Her anxiety was beginning to peak at the idea he might actually refuse her.
He sensed she was becoming agitated so he quickly agreed. "Whatever makes you happy darling." She looked at him peculiarly. "What?" he asked.
"That is the first time you ever called me that."
"What?"
"The first time you called me darling."
"Oh."
"I think I like it."
"I like saying it." He smiled and kissed her again.
"Chakotay, I'm sure you've heard the news." The Captain and Commander were sitting in her quarters eating a small meal while reviewing department status reports. With less than two weeks left until they reached the wormhole they had found themselves increasingly busy and increasingly stressed. Chakotay had suggested working in a more relaxed atmosphere.
"The news? Which news?"
"The news about Seven and the Doctor's engagement."
"Oh that news." Chakotay sighed and leaned back in his chair. "I was wondering when you were going to bring that up. Amazing isn't it."
"Yeah," she mumbled.
"Kathryn what's wrong?"
She sighed. "Tuvok came to me this morning. He brought up a few issues I was pushing off dealing with."
"Issues about Seven and the Doctor?"
"Not only them Chakotay."
He nodded in understanding. "So it begins already. You knew we were going to have to deal with these issues sooner or later."
"I would just as soon not deal with them at all." She said angrily throwing her napkin down and standing up. "In my eyes you're no longer a maquis, you're my first officer and my closest friend. The same goes for all the former maquis. They're our crew, our family. And the Doctor isn't just a hologram, not to me. How am I going to make the Federation understand that?"
Chakotay stood up and put his arms around her. "Not just you Kathryn, you and I together. You can't worry about what the Federation might or might not do. You can't control everything. The crew will be fine no matter what happens. We'll make sure of it."
"Tuvok raised another interesting point this morning." She said parting from him.
"Well he was just full a sunshine wasn't he." Chakotay smirked regaining his seat, glad he had calmed at least one of her worries. "What other bits of sunshine did he lay on you this morning?"
She gave him a look before responding. "He's only being Tuvok. He said a marriage between Seven and the Doctor might not be legal."
"And what did you say?"
"I told him it might not be illegal."
He smiled flashing his dimples at her. "So you've decided to marry them?"
"I never had any intention of saying no. I spoke with Seven yesterday and she is adamant about being married before we reach the wormhole. I think she has the same thoughts Tuvok has. The two of them think a lot alike. Besides after I found out about their engagement I did a little research and found something encouraging."
"Oh?"
"Years ago, before I was even a Captain I remembered receiving a news brief about this ground breaking legal precedent concerning the android serving aboard the Enterprise."
"You mean Commander Data of the Enterprises."
"Yes. Anyway the brief talked about the fact that Captain Picard had fought and won for his right to self-determination. I think our Doctor will fall under that judgment, making it perfectly acceptable for him to get married."
"It sounds like you've thought of everything, so why aren't you calm."
She looked down at her hands and whispered. "I'm so scared Chakotay." He nodded understanding. "Ever since we found that wormhole I've been so happy. I can finally see light at the end of the tunnel. But at the same time something has been nagging in the back of my mind. The truth is I feel safe here. I'm used to it. When we enter that wormhole everything will change. I just don't know if I can deal with that." For the second time in that night Chakotay went to her and enveloped her in his arms.
"I know Kathryn. Don't you think I have the same thoughts? The future is so uncertain, but I promise you I will never leave you. Don't you know that I would go to the ends of the universe to make sure you were happy and safe? I love you Kathryn." Immediately he knew he had said too much. He had intended to comfort her, not bare his soul. He could feel her tense slightly in his arms. She hadn't expected to hear a confession any more than he expected to give her one.
Suddenly the door to her quarters chimed and they jumped apart. "Come." She said trying to calm her breathing.
Seven and the Doctor strode into her quarters hand in hand. "Captain we must speak to you," Seven blurted before she realized the Captain was not alone.
"That is if you have a minute," the Doctor interjected tactfully.
"Of course. We were just finishing dinner. What can I do for the two of you?" The Captain asked.
The Doctor smiled at Seven lovingly before answering, "we would like you to marry us. Tonight."
Commander Chakotay raised his eyebrow in surprise. "Tonight?"
"Yes, we wish to be married tonight." Seven responded.
"Don't you think this is a bit sudden Seven?" The Captain asked. She had always felt protective of Seven and she had to be sure Seven wasn't making a rash decision.
"I have agreed to marry the Doctor. What is the difference if I marry him tonight or in the future? I am not concerned with the superficialities of all that a traditional human wedding entails."
The Captain smiled. "I guess when you put it that way. There are still a few things we need to perform a wedding. We would need a witness and a ring."
"We would be honored if Commander Chakotay stood as our witness," the Doctor spoke up. "And we already have a ring."
"It would seem you've run out of problems Captain." Commander Chakotay piped up smiling.
"It would seem. Ok you win Seven. Meet us in my ready room in 30 minutes."
"Thank you Captain." She said before leading the Doctor out of her quarters.
As soon as they left Kathryn immediately felt awkward. She wondered what Chakotay had meant when he said he loved her. Surely he must have meant as friends. She loved him also, he was a part of her life. Maybe she was reading too much into this. She had been upset, maybe the words were just a way to bring her comfort. She didn't have time to dwell on the matter immediately though, she had a wedding to perform. "Join me in my ready room Commander?"
"I would be honored Captain?"
The ceremony had been simple, yet beautiful. As Seven and the Doctor spoke vows of love and life long commitment Commander Chakotay could not help but be slightly envious. He was very happy that these two outsiders whose lives were more lonely than not had found true happiness with each other, but he could not help thinking of Kathryn. He wondered what their return to the alpha quadrant would do to their friendship. And he wondered how he could have been so unguarded. For over five years he had been careful not to reveal too much of his heart. He knew even if she returned his feelings there could be nothing between them. She was the Captain and he knew no amount of persuasion would make her abandon that. To let her know of his feelings would only be selfish and he wouldn't do it. He resolved to never again mention what had been said in her quarters. At least not while she was still his Captain.
Seven and the Doctor had been married for two weeks. Each day was very happy for both of them and they were never separated for very long. As a wedding present the Captain had given them their own quarters and it was slowly being filled with gifts from the rest of the crew. Much to Seven's surprise the crew had embraced the first marriage aboard Voyager with great joy. Neelix had of course thrown a lavish party for the two of them and everyone who could make it made an effort to show up and congratulate the newlyweds. The crews enlightened spirits were not completely due to the impromptu wedding, with each passing day they got closer to the wormhole and they were certain that their next big celebration would be their homecoming.
The energy on the bridge was at a fevered pitch as they finally reached the wormhole. "Ensign Kim, prepare to launch a probe into the wormhole." Captain Janeway sat at the edge of her chair in eager anticipation. The probe was only a final safety measurement. Since its discovery and the knowledge of its final destination the crew had been preparing the ship for the journey through the wormhole. They had analyzed sensor data until they had memorized it. No crew had ever been more prepared for a mission than this one at this time.
"Probe launched Captain." After a pause Harry continued. "We're already receiving data."
"Re-route that data to Engineering, Tactical and the Conn. When all departments report ready we'll head in."
The wait was excruciating, but finally Tuvok spoke up, "All departments report ready, Captain."
She took a deep breath before saying, "take us in Tom.