Changes
Chapter 8
T'Pol gazed out onto the ocean from the balcony. She had another week of this bliss to look forward to, before they returned to San Francisco. Yes, bliss. Vulcans could experience such emotions, even though they'd probably never admit to them, at least not in public. But she indulged herself while she was here; experiencing every emotion Jonathan elicited in her to the full.
The first week had come and gone so quickly, she hoped the second week would seem longer. She knew such thinking was illogical — all time passed at the same rate, however fast or slow it appeared to be going.
They'd spent some of their days just talking, walking along the beach and swimming. Despite her earlier reservations, she'd discovered swimming could be enjoyable, and she'd become rather proficient with Jonathan lavishing her with praise.
Other days they'd gone exploring around Oahu and the other Hawaiian isles. T'Pol had particularly enjoyed their trip to the Volcanoes National Park.
This morning she'd woken up alone, with a note on Jonathan's pillow saying he'd gone for an early morning swim and didn't want to wake her. She hadn't minded, she knew how much he loved the water. It must have been hard for him all these years being cooped up on Enterprise with no pool.
She'd had breakfast, showered and dressed. Taking advantage of the time alone, she'd decided to meditate in the living room. Of late, they'd been doing this together, often before going to bed. It seemed to help them both relax and sleep better. She'd also suggested it in the hope that it might help improve his telepathic ability, but so far their joint efforts hadn't yielded any results.
She was beginning to think that day on the pier had been a fluke, and while he didn't say anything, she knew Jonathan must have felt a little disheartened. Still, it was only a week. It could take months or even a few years for his mental abilities to develop to the point where he could communicate telepathically with her.
She saw him running up the steps to the house, after his morning swim. Wet arms entrapped her and moist lips caressed her, but she yielded willingly. "I missed you," she confessed.
"Were you lonely, T'Pol?" he asked, a little concerned.
"No, I just missed your friendly face smiling at me from across the breakfast table. But it isn't of consequence. I have you to myself for the rest of the day, do I not?"
"Rest of the day and night, and tomorrow, and the day after that, until you get sick of me."
"That will not happen."
"You sure?" he teased.
"It would be illogical. I married you so I could spend as much time with you as possible."
"I know, I was just teasing." He kissed her on the nose. "Anyway I better dry off and get some clothes on."
"Indeed," she returned. His display of affection had resulted in her dress being slightly dampened. However, it did not concern her. In this warm climate, her clothing would dry out within a few minutes.
He returned within a few minutes, and they sat down at the table on the balcony. She enquired if he'd had anything to eat before heading out to the beach.
"I grabbed a bowl of muesli. Didn't want to make too much noise cooking anything as you were still asleep. So what have you been up to?"
"After breakfast I meditated for a while."
"Okay, good. Did you sleep well?"
"Yes and you?"
"Tossed and turned a bit. Felt a little restless. Since you say you slept well I assume I didn't wake you."
Something troubled him, but she couldn't quite pick up on it. She just knew there was some kind of niggling thought in the back of his mind.
"Do you wish to talk about it?" she asked.
"Oh it's nothing."
"If it was nothing, it would not have kept you up last night."
"Okay …well I still wish I could communicate with you telepathically. I feel as if…" He paused wondering if he should air such a thought. Then he realized there was no point in hiding it as she'd only pick up on it.
"You feel as if what, Jonathan?"
"Don't get mad."
She raised an eyebrow at him. "You know I do not get angry."
"Well I just feel as if I've failed you in some way. I mean if I was Vulcan, we wouldn't even be having this conversation."
"You haven't failed me in any way. There is no logical reason for you to feel this way, though I am uncertain as to how to convince you. I feel as if my words won't be enough."
"They are," he said, reaching across the table and touching her hand. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have even said anything."
"On the contrary, I asked if there was something the matter."
Last night, as he'd lain awake with the sound of T'Pol's even breathing filling the room, he'd felt so lucky to have her here with him, at his side. Each day he experienced the joy of waking up with her in his arms and he felt more grateful. But for her, there were obvious downsides to being married to a human. Whilst she never voiced such ideas, he did wonder if she felt even a small measure of disappointment that their bond was not as strong as a bond created between two married Vulcans.
And this morning, while the powerful waves crashed over his head as he swam, other thoughts had flitted through his brain. T'Pol had been married before…and to a Vulcan. Had she shared this intimate exchange of thoughts with him? He disliked the fact that such a thought sparked an unwelcome feeling of jealousy.
They'd discussed her relationship with Trip in detail before their wedding, but he didn't know that much about her marriage to Koss apart from the fact that she'd wed him under duress.
"I know," he replied. "And I appreciate your concern."
She sensed he felt troubled, but wasn't going to push him if he didn't want to talk about it. She knew he'd open up to her in his own good time. "Did you have any plans for this afternoon?"
"Nothing in particular. Anything take your fancy, T'Pol?"
"I was reading about the Bishop Museum last night that is situated in Honolulu. There are many interesting exhibits on display including many which chart the history of the islands."
"Sure, sounds good. I think we could drive up there this afternoon."
They arrived back at the villa just after 10pm. They'd spent most of the afternoon in the museum, and then decided to have dinner in Honolulu.
T'Pol had found the exhibits fascinating and was now far more knowledgeable about Hawaii and its early residents. While the day had been pleasing for her, she'd noted that Jonathan had appeared rather absent-minded. At dinner, he'd also been quiet. Normally he initiated conversation by asking questions or relating something to her.
But tonight she'd been the initiator, attempting to draw him out and without much success. In the end, she'd given up and they'd shared the meal in relative silence apart from a few comments on whether the food was good.
As they walked into the house he asked if he could use the bathroom first to shower. She agreed though was surprised he'd be preparing for bed so early. It was just after 10pm. Perhaps he felt tired, and that would also explain why he'd been quiet at dinner.
She made herself some camomile tea and went out onto the balcony to drink it. Her thoughts were of Jonathan and what was troubling him. He'd said earlier that he felt as if he'd failed her, and she felt helpless in making him see that he hadn't. If only she could make him understand that he needed to be patient…their relationship was unique and they were the first human Vulcan couple to marry. She could not predict what would happen in regard to their bond.
She heard him exit the bathroom and walked into the bedroom to join him. "Are you going to sleep now?"
"No…I thought I might read for awhile."
"I see." He had brought books with him, but she'd never seen him reading them — there hadn't been time. They usually spent their evenings together by going for a moonlit walk on the beach or sitting on the balcony talking to each other.
"Jonathan, I know I asked you this earlier today, but is it just your disappointment in the bond that is troubling you?"
"I'm fine, T'Pol. I felt like reading tonight. There's no need to make a big deal of it."
He almost sounded defensive and that was unlike him. "So I should not make a big deal of you barely uttering 5 sentences to me at dinner or of you going to bed at 10pm?"
"I'm not going to bed, I already told you that." He felt like he was being cross-examined.
She sat down on the edge of the bed as he rummaged through his bags, probably looking for that book he was so eager to read tonight.
"You told me not long ago that communication is the lifeblood of any relationship. I don't feel like you are communicating your feelings to me."
"Why would I have to? I thought you could pick up on them without me having to verbalise them." Sarcasm laced the sentence.
T'Pol took a deep breath and exhaled. "I do not know what you are thinking, Jonathan. I can only pick up on your surface emotions and at this very moment I would say you are annoyed and angry. As for the reasons behind these emotions, I can only theorize."
He came to sit by her on the bed, placing his book on his bedside table. "I'm sorry, T'Pol. I'm acting like an ass." He ran his fingers through his hair and sighed.
"You're right by quoting my words back to me — I did say that and I do believe in that saying. I sure haven't practised it today."
"The day is not over…you can still try."
"You'll just think I'm being insecure and foolish."
"I'd rather you appeared that way, than closing me out. And I don't believe I would accuse you of being the latter."
"No," he half-smiled. "You wouldn't."
"Well?" she prompted. "As humans would say — spill it."
He grinned at her use of the human term. "Can you tell me about you and Koss?"
Her eyebrows arched up to her bangs in surprise. This was unexpected. "What is there to tell, Jonathan? I thought you were aware of my arrangement with him."
"He's a Vulcan. Didn't he initiate a bond with you?"
"Our marriage was strictly in name only — we were neither bonded nor was our relationship ever consummated. Koss was aware that neither of these things would occur when I agreed to marry him. As you know, I did this to help my mother."
Jonathan was relieved to hear this. "But surely he wanted a marital bond with you?"
"Of course, but I would not permit it."
"So you never communicated telepathically?"
"Never."
"I guess I let my imagination run away with me — I thought with him being Vulcan and all—"
"That we'd bonded?"
"Yes."
"Even though we spent no time together, and I'd told you when I returned from Vulcan that after the ceremony we'd gone our separate ways."
"Yes I remember you telling me of your trip alone to Mount Seleya."
"And with this knowledge you still thought that there was something between Koss and myself?"
"Sweetheart, the human heart is not logical."
"Neither is the mind," she mused. "Marital bonds are permanent. If Koss and I had been joined thus we would not have been able to dissolve our marriage like we did."
"Okay…I'm convinced and I'm sorry I let my thoughts run away with me."
"Would it not have been prudent to mention this at lunch when I first asked you?" she chided.
He nodded and kissed her gently. "Yeah…it would have."
She noted his emotions were on a more even keel yet she sensed lingering curiosity. "What else?"
"Huh?"
"There's something else you want to ask me, I can feel it."
"Right…I guess I can't hide anything from you."
"It would be difficult." She caressed his stubbled cheek.
"Okay…I know you told me about you and Trip…and that it was just one night — but did you ever share thoughts?"
"I can pick up on the surface emotions of any human if I touch them — it's part of being Vulcan. In regard to your question however, Trip and I never shared any kind of telepathic link at any time. You are the only one."
That's all he needed to know. He didn't care for all these insecure thoughts he'd had today, but maybe he could finally put them behind him…and just enjoy being married to T'Pol.
"I can see why you find us humans so illogical at times."
"Only at times?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
A low sounding chuckle rumbled in his throat at her teasing.
"Since I've answered your questions satisfactorily tonight, maybe I can have a request granted."
"Request away, sweetheart."
"Don't read that book tonight."
"You have other activities in mind?"
"Indeed."
Scooting up to her, he entwined his arms around her waist and whispered in her ear, "Then I'd say your request is granted."
Two weeks had passed and their honeymoon was at an end. It was time to return to San Francisco to start their new life and duties. Jonathan had suggested that they could lengthen their vacation as his official start date as Admiral wasn't for another two weeks. T'Pol's response was that while it would be pleasant to stay longer, they still needed to find a house before he commenced his new job. Also, while not anxious, she was curious as to whether her own new job had been confirmed.
The moment they entered Jonathan's apartment T'Pol noticed there was a communiqué waiting to be read on the computer screen. She placed her luggage on the living room floor and calmly walked over to read it.
"Don't keep me in suspense, T'Pol. Did you get it?" Jonathan asked.
Her eyes scanned the screen taking in the information.
"T'Pol?" he asked again, leaning over her in an attempt to read it himself and then noticing it was in Vulcan.
"The position is mine," she finally answered in typical stoic fashion.
Jonathan's reaction was the complete opposite of hers. With excitement he pulled her to her feet, then lifted her off the ground twirling her around the room for a few seconds. "Congratulations, sweetheart! I knew you'd get it."
"Jonathan—"
"Okay, I'm putting you down."
She straightened her hair. "Thank you."
"I'm so happy for you."
"I know."
"So what did the letter say? It looked long."
"Ambassador Soval says there will be an interim period where we will work together to facilitate the transition. I'm to report to his office next week."
"Lucky we didn't stay in Hawaii longer then. Did he say anything else?"
"The interim period could be anything between 1-3 months, depending on how apt I am at learning my duties."
"I'd say you won't need more than a month. I remember when you first came aboard Enterprise how impressed I was that you picked up things so quickly."
"There is a vast difference between learning to become an Ambassador and being a science officer on an Earth vessel."
"I wasn't implying that both jobs were the same, only that I know you're a quick study."
"Thank you, Jonathan. I appreciate your confidence in me." It meant a lot to her, and she knew he wasn't just saying that because he was her husband. Soval had also mentioned in his communiqué that he doubted they'd need a whole 3 months for the transition and was confident in her abilities.
They had a quiet cosy dinner in Sausalito that evening to celebrate her new assignment. Afterwards they drove back into San Francisco and had drinks at the 602 Club with Hoshi, Malcolm and Phlox. T'Pol informed them of her new job and they all offered her their congratulations.
They also updated their former captain and first officer of their own new assignments. Phlox had accepted a position with Starfleet Medical — Jonathan was only too happy to hear that and requested that the doctor remain his personal physician. Phlox heartily agreed. Malcolm was joining Captain Hernandez as her first officer, while Hoshi was off to Brazil to continue teaching.
"Congratulations and good luck to us all." Jonathan raised his glass in the air. "It was a pleasure serving with each of you on Enterprise, and I'll miss the daily contact."
"Not with T'Pol you won't," Malcolm interjected.
"Right," Jonathan laughed.
"You're always be welcome at Starfleet Medical, Captain. Even if you are in perfect health, you can drop by for a visit," Phlox added.
"Thanks, Doc."
"And Brazil is only a few hours away if you and T'Pol ever fancy a visit," Hoshi said.
"That's kind of you, Ensign. I'm sure Jonathan and I will take you up on the offer at some point," T'Pol replied.
"Sure will," Jonathan added.
They ordered another round of drinks, then bid each other goodnight. Hoshi was leaving in a few days so they arranged to all go out to dinner as a group before she left. Phlox told Jonathan he'd be round in the morning with Porthos. Jonathan thanked the doctor for looking after his pet and hoped he hadn't been too much trouble.
"Not at all, Captain. I rather enjoyed his company — though he did miss you. The first few days he didn't have much of an appetite."
"But he's okay now?" The doctor nodded.
The Archers arrived home half an hour later, and prepared for bed. "Would you like to meditate with me, tonight?" T'Pol asked her husband as she prepared her mat and candles.
"Yeah, I'll be there in a minute." His reply came from the bedroom.
He joined her cross-legged on the floor, closed his eyes and joined hands with her.
Just relax.
He loved the sound of her voice in his head; it was soothing and calming. He only wished he could speak to her in the same way, but pushed that thought out of his mind. Instead he conjured up a pleasant memory from several years ago that made him feel at peace.
T'Pol was picturing being back home on Vulcan — traversing the hot sandy desert, feeling the dry air on her skin and the sun beating down on her. Then the image changed. She was no longer on Vulcan but in a shuttlepod with Jonathan witnessing a glorious spectacle. The dark matter nebula was transformed from its former obsidian color into different shades of reds and pinks.
"Jonathan, are you recalling a memory?" she asked, testing out a theory.
"I was remembering that time after A.G. died, when we were exploring the dark matter nebula."
T'Pol's eyes opened and she asked him to do the same. "It seems I was recalling it too."
"Oh?"
"I do not believe it was a coincidence but that you inadvertently shared that memory with me."
"You mean through our bond?" he asked in an excitable tone.
"I believe so."
"Then this is good news, right?"
"Let's try it consciously. Conjure up an image of something, concentrate on it, and let's see if you can share it with me."
He agreed and they both closed their eyes. Jonathan concentrated hard while T'Pol cleared her mind of any other thoughts. An image began to form in her mind — a young boy of about five earth years was playing with a dog…no a puppy. It reminded her of Porthos…it looked like the same breed.
"Do you see anything T'Pol?" She related what she saw.
"It's working!"
"It would be safe to assume that the bond is getting stronger each day. Was that you in the image?"
"Yeah with my dog Barnaby. He was my first pet, Dad had just bought him for my birthday."
"You've always owned that breed?"
"You mean Beagles? Yeah. Anyway this is quite a breakthrough, isn't it?"
Jonathan was practically frothing at the mouth with excitement. T'Pol, as usual, was far calmer — though inside she felt a sense of contentment at this new development.
It is a positive step, Jonathan.
He tried answering her telepathically but within a few seconds acknowledged that she wasn't getting the message. For the time being he'd be content with the progress they'd made.
T'Pol suggested they continue with their meditation recommending that he lead them to a place of serenity. With their eyes closed and hands joined, Jonathan pictured their beach in Oahu — the sound of the waves as they crashed along the shore and the feel of the balmy night air against their skin. He could hear the breeze rustling through the palm leaves.
A good choice — it is almost like being there.
She saw herself walking along the shore with Jonathan at her side, the cool water lapping at her feet, the majestic full moon illuminating their way. She felt calm and at peace. She sensed her husband felt the same.
With their meditation finished, they turned in for the night. Hawaii was two hours ahead of the west coast, and still being on Honolulu time they were both feeling a little sleepy even though it wasn't that late in San Francisco.
In the weeks that followed Jonathan was officially promoted to Admiral and moved into a nice swanky office at Starfleet Headquarters. The Council assured him that he wouldn't be tied behind a desk and that if he wanted to venture out onto a starship every couple of months as an observer, then he was welcome to do so. He accepted the offer heartily, and began to make plans to be onboard for the maiden voyage of the first warp 7 ship.
T'Pol settled into her new work environment at the Consulate in Sausalito. She found her job fulfilling and intriguing. As Soval had predicted the transition went smoothly and within a month the former ambassador was packing his bags for Vulcan and a more stress-free life.
After an extensive search they found their house of dreams just outside the city. It fronted the beach and even had a nice sized back garden for Porthos to roam about in.
Both soon became accustomed to their new life and while they didn't spend their days together any longer like they had on Enterprise, their evenings were entirely their own to be spent in private without comm interruptions.
On the surface life seemed perfect, and Jonathan wouldn't have described it any other way. It was just in the back of his mind he wished their bond could be as strong as it would have been if he'd been Vulcan. He didn't air those thoughts to T'Pol anymore, though he sensed she probably picked up on them. He kept repeating to himself like a mantra to be patient, but it wasn't easy. It just wasn't in his make up.
Despite meditating together almost every night, sharing images and memories, he was still unable to send her a verbal message, like she could to him. He decided it was best not to get downhearted, and be grateful for what they could share.
Maybe humans just weren't meant to communicate telepathically. But he wasn't one to give up easily. A month after their return from Hawaii he'd gone to see Phlox without T'Pol's knowledge to ask his medical opinion. The doctor had performed a brain scan, comparing it to one taken a few years earlier on Enterprise, but hadn't noticed any changes. Jonathan had thought there might be because of the bond. Phlox suggested he see a Vulcan doctor for a second opinion if this really bothered him. Jonathan thanked him, and returned to his office at Starfleet.
Then one evening out of the blue something happened. Jonathan and T'Pol were at a Starfleet function together — a black tie affair which he'd been coerced into attending. He'd never been much for such social gatherings, though he acknowledged that as an admiral it was his duty to attend.
They entered the large conference area chosen for the gathering at Starfleet. Heads turned as the handsome Admiral and his beautiful wife, the Ambassador strolled in. T'Pol was dressed in an off-the-shoulder green gown with a matching emerald necklace. It reminded Jonathan a little of her wedding dress and he felt proud to have such a gorgeous looking woman on his arm. He was in a black tuxedo, and she thought he looked handsomer than ever, in spite of his protests at home about having to dress up.
Soon they were mingling with other guests who were all anxious to engage them in conversation. One young woman who identified herself as a journalist for a local newspaper asked if she could borrow T'Pol for a few minutes; she wanted her editor to meet the Vulcan Ambassador. T'Pol acquiesced and left Jonathan's side.
The few minutes the young journalist had spoken of turned into half an hour. T'Pol attempted to be cordial and patient, but it almost felt as if the editor's questions were part of an unofficial interview. Glancing across the room she saw no sign of Jonathan and wondered how he was fairing.
"Vulcans have always fascinated me. I guess I should make time to visit your planet someday," the editor droned on.
"Yes…you should." She wasn't really listening, and wanted to get away now. She tried to conjure up some excuse.
"Would you like a drink, Ambassador?" a female voice asked. T'Pol looked up and noticed the young journalist had returned.
"No thank you. Have you seen my husband?"
"The Admiral? No, not since we both left him."
"I should rejoin him. If you'll excuse me."
"Of course. A pleasure talking to you, Ambassador," the editor said, as she walked away.
She'd hoped her escape would be easy, but unfortunately fate wasn't on her side. She'd only managed a few steps when she was stopped by Admiral Gardner. He asked her how things were going at the Consulate and if she'd settled into her new role with ease. When she mentioned that she should rejoin Jonathan, Gardner laughed and told her not to worry.
"I'm sure he's enjoying the limelight."
"He's not really that kind of a person," T'Pol explained.
"Comes with the job…he'll just have to get used to it."
She didn't mean to appear rude, but excused herself and continued looking for her husband. Half way across the room she was stopped again.
"Ambassador T'Pol, I just have to say your dress is so lovely."
"Thank you, Lieutenant." It was Lieutenant Emma Harding — Jonathan's personal assistant at Starfleet.
"Did you have it specially made?"
T'Pol was not a fan of discussing earth style fashions. Jonathan had helped her pick out the dress from a local designer shop as she'd been unsure what would be considered appropriate.
"No, it was bought. Have you seen Jonathan?" As she asked she spied him out of the corner of her eye. His back was to her, but she'd recognize those broad shoulders anywhere. He seemed engaged in conversation with a young lady. T'Pol couldn't tell who she was only that she had long red hair and wore a black evening gown.
T'Pol, what's keeping you?
"I think I saw him talking with Admiral Douglas about ten minutes ago. That color really suits you, it brings out your eyes. And your necklace is lovely — is that a real emerald?" Emma asked.
"I apologize…what did you say?" T'Pol had been distracted not only by the sight of Jonathan but…for a second she could have sworn he'd said something to her. No, it must have been her imagination.
"I said I saw him with Admiral—"
"Thank you, Lieutenant, I've located him myself." With that she walked off in Jonathan direction. As she approached she noticed just how close this red haired woman was standing next to Jonathan. She was practically invading his space and she kept pawing at him while laughing. T'Pol could make out some of the conversation by now. It was apparent the woman was interested in her husband and was openly flirting with him.
T'Pol swooped in, possessively wrapping her arm around Jonathan's waist. Hopefully the message was clear: he was taken. "Jonathan, aren't you going to introduce me?"
Where have you been? I'm glad you're finally back.
She'd meant to appear nonchalant and confident, but suddenly felt puzzled. She'd heard his voice but his lips didn't move. This was the second time in the last 5 minutes that he'd communicated to her in this fashion. Was he aware that he was projecting his thoughts to her?
"Of course," he answered. "I wondered where you had disappeared to. T'Pol, this is Doctor Renata Greenberg."
"Doctor." T'Pol's voice was icy, and her expression completely stoic as she met the redheaded doctor's eyes.
"Ambassador, a pleasure to meet you."
"Renata just accepted a job at Starfleet Medical. She'll be working with our very own Doctor Phlox," Jonathan explained.
"I see. How nice for you, Doctor."
"Yes it is. I hear Phlox has quite a reputation. I'm looking forward to working with him."
"Phlox is a marvellous physician. I'm sure you will learn a lot from his tutelage," T'Pol remarked.
"My hope is that we'll learn much from each other. After all that is one of the purposes of the Interspecies Medical Exchange." The redhead knew T'Pol's comment was meant to put her down, and attempted to correct the Vulcan's viewpoint.
"You've taken part in the program?" T'Pol asked, then wondered why she was indulging her curiosity. This woman had flirted with her husband!
"Yes, I actually spent two years on Vulcan. Your people are most fascinating."
She made them sound like rats that she'd been studying in a lab. T'Pol was taking a distinct dislike to this woman.
"Ambassador," Renata continued, "I have to say you are a most lucky woman."
"I am?" T'Pol wondered where she was going with this.
"Yes, you're married to a remarkable, and if I may say very handsome man. If he was free—"
"Well he's not," T'Pol interrupted.
"No, Ambassador, please don't get me wrong—"
"I'm not stupid, Doctor. And since you lived on Vulcan for two years you must be aware that we Vulcans have acute hearing."
The young doctor looked a little embarrassed. "I think you are reading into what you think you heard."
"It really is of no consequence…Jonathan would have put you straight if I hadn't turned up."
With that T'Pol excused them both and they walked out onto the terrace to talk in private.
"What was that all about?" Jonathan asked.
"I think you communicated with me telepathically," T'Pol stated, not answering his original question.
"What?"
"Yes, within the last 5 minutes you spoke to me twice telepathically."
"I did? What did you hear?"
"The first time you asked what was keeping me, and the second was when I arrived and you asked where I'd been and were grateful I'd arrived."
Jonathan's expression was one of amazement and joy. "I did think those things! And you heard them? My God, that's incredible. Then this must mean—"
"That the bond is working. I believe so."
"Let me try something." Where have you been for the last 45 minutes?
I hear you, Jonathan. Continue.
Really? You can hear what I'm saying? For the moment his question about her whereabouts was forgotten as he digested this development.
As if you were speaking verbally.
I can't believe it, this is amazing. But why now? Why today?
"There's doesn't have to be anything specific that would trigger this as far as I know. It just seems that our bond is now fully functional," she explained. "I did say it might just take time."
T'Pol, I've wanted this so much.
I know. As have I.
He wrapped her in his arms pulling her flush against him, and pressing his lips to hers in a gentle kiss, which soon turned to something more heated and passionate. He didn't give a fleeting thought to the fact that someone might see them — his excitement had overtaken the rational side of his brain.
T'Pol gazed into his eyes seeing the childlike excitement there. Not wishing to spoil his mood she refrained from making any comments of how someone could have walked out and witnessed their embrace.
I'm so happy.
I know, Jonathan. I sense and hear it. She cupped his face with her hand, stroking his cheek with her thumb. He caught her hand and brought it to his lips, kissing her palm with tenderness.
"So where were you?"
"Answering a lot of questions posed by a nosy editor. He even asked me about my private life and our marriage. I had no idea it would take so long. I think being polite is not always the most logical course of action."
"True," he agreed.
"You agreeing in regard to Doctor Greenberg?"
"Well I was thinking more generally…but yeah I tried to be polite to her."
"She was making unwanted overtures."
"Was she?" he asked half-jokingly.
T'Pol raised an eyebrow at him.
"Sweetheart, to be honest, I'm not used to women…well you know."
"No, I don't know. You've had plenty of experience with earth women."
"She was just being friendly."
"Overly friendly," T'Pol countered. "Besides, if you didn't mind, why were you so glad when I turned up?"
"Well first of all I'd wondered where you had disappeared to, and secondly…well I hadn't planned on coming to the function without you, and I missed you."
"We're apart for more than 9 hours a day when we are working. I was gone for 45 minutes and you missed me?"
Jonathan smiled. Even after being married a few months she still took some things too literally. "I always miss you when you're not with me. Remember on Enterprise we were practically joined at the hip, so to speak."
"That is true," she conceded.
"Wanna take a walk in the rose garden?" he asked. It was just a few feet away from the terrace they'd strolled onto, and it was a relatively warm night.
"I don't think we'll be missed if we aren't absent too long."
"Right."
Jonathan took her hand and guided her to the hundred of bushes that grew on the Starfleet grounds.
"Whilst I do not approve of Doctor Greenberg's behaviour, I have to say I can hardly blame her. You do look exceptionally handsome in that tuxedo."
"Thanks, T'Pol. But really it was harmless."
"Perhaps, though that was not my first instinct."
"Oh?"
"I confess I did feel a little possessive."
He laughed. "Ah, well that'd explain the iron grip around my waist when you turned up."
"Was she not aware of our marriage?" T'Pol asked.
"Oh I think everyone knows I'm married to the now famous Ambassador T'Pol. I still think it was nothing. But if she'd become persistent, I'd have put her straight."
"I have no doubt of that."
He watched her as they walked amongst the flowers. Some days he still couldn't grasp that this beautiful creature was his wife. "That dress really suits you. You look stunning in it." She thanked him for the compliment.
They loitered in the garden for several more minutes admiring the roses. Tiny lamps were positioned underneath each bush, providing illumination. There were a variety of different colors that included yellow, white, peach, pink and red with some cross breeds.
"Is the red your favourite?" he asked.
"Yes…it is perfect in every way." Bending down she inhaled the flower's scent. The perfume was sweet but pleasant. "The red has a rich vibrant color, and the smell is enticing."
"We'll have to plant some rose bushes at the house," he suggested.
"An excellent suggestion. I would like that."
"Just make sure you keep Porthos away from them," he joked.
"Indeed," she replied. "You are fortunate that I am not as strict as the Kreetassens."
"Yeah," he answered, as he laughed at the memory. He was glad he could laugh about it now.
"Though I did rather enjoy that little ritual you performed."
Jonathan gave her a saucy smile. "Now the truth comes out. If only I'd known, I might have arranged for a private encore performance."
"Then I did miss out." She pretended to sigh with disappointment.
"Well I wasn't the one spouting theories of how our hypothetical attraction would be problematic." He was enjoying this fun exchange.
"How is it my problem if you did not comprehend the full meaning of my words?"
"Full meaning, huh? Guess I should have had the universal translator on in my Ready Room that day."
"It might have assisted."
They were interrupted as they heard someone call out to them. Jonathan looked in the direction the voice came from and made out his assistant, Lieutenant Harding. She approached them. "I'm sorry to bother you, sir, but people are asking for you."
"Okay, thanks Emma. We'll be right in."
"Guess we better get back," Jonathan said and T'Pol agreed.
They returned home just after 11pm. Porthos greeted them happily as they entered, and after being patted affectionately padded back into the living room, jumping up onto the sofa.
Jonathan and T'Pol exchanged glances. He knew what she was going to say without even having to say it. He walked over to Porthos, lifting his pet off the sofa and placing him gently in his basket in the corner of the room.
"I know you're used to sleeping on the sofa at the old apartment, boy, but the furniture here is new, and you've got your own bed here," Jonathan explained, knowing full well the dog didn't understand.
T'Pol leaned against the doorway and watched, amused at how Jonathan spoke to the animal as if it was human.
She turned away and walked up the stairs to their bedroom. Switching on the light, she moved to the main window in their room, opening it to let the sea breeze in. She could see the ocean from her window, and she found the sound of the waves soothing. She prepared for bed and when exiting the bathroom had expected Jonathan to be there. She climbed in under the covers and lay her head back against the pillows.
Come to bed, Jonathan.
She waited a few seconds and was rewarded with a response. I'll be there in a minute, sweetheart.
She didn't have to wait long, soon enough she heard the familiar sound of footsteps coming up the stairs and he entered. She sensed he seemed relaxed but was curious as to what had kept him. "What were you doing downstairs?" she asked as she propped herself up against the pillows.
"I kept on eye on Porthos until he fell asleep, then I had a brandy and checked the computer to see if there were any communiqués. Why, did you miss me?"
"If it wasn't so late, you could do that encore performance you were talking about earlier."
Jonathan laughed. "Now I know you're joking!"
She raised an eyebrow at him. "I could not be more serious," she explained in a stoic voice. "After all you offered."
"Tattoos, beads and a chainsaw? Come on, T'Pol."
"Well they were becoming! Even Hoshi thought so."
"Stop pulling my leg."
"She told me you winked at her that day."
"Er…yeah okay…maybe I did but that was just cause we both knew how stupid this whole apology ritual was…I mean both you and her seemed to find the entire thing hilarious from the moment the Kreetassens sent the instructions as to what they required of me."
"True…it was certainly original." There was gleam in her eye, and Jonathan knew she was teasing him and enjoying it. "Still, I found the outfit or to better phrase it, lack of clothing aesthetically pleasing. The beads and tattoos were just an added bonus."
"Okay…I'll take it as a compliment."
"As it was intended."
He sat down on the bed beside her and kissed her. "Since we're confessing stuff, I might as well tell you I thought you looked stunning as an Akaali."
"I am surprised. I didn't think you'd have time to notice…you seemed rather taken with that apothecary."
"Oh I noticed, T'Pol. Believe me," he answered, ignoring her remark about Riann. "Long hair suits you, as of course did that outfit."
"You wish me to grow my hair?" she asked.
"No sweetheart, I love your hair as it is." His finger curled around a portion of it and then caressed the nape of her neck. "I don't expect or need you to change it in the same way as you don't expect me to go around with tattoos and beads in my hair — I was merely returning the compliment."
"I see. But maybe I should grow my hair out. It wasn't practical while on Enterprise, but now—"
"Only if you want to." He smiled at the image his mind conjured up of her with long hair down to her waist. This time it wasn't of her on the Akaali homeworld but the image seemed familiar. He was probably recalling some dream he'd had about her many years ago.
He undressed, had a quick shower and joined her in bed. He pulled her into his arms, claiming her lips with his own.
I love you, T'Pol.
It was the first time he'd thought those words to her, he'd wanted to say them all evening, but had waited for a special moment.
As I do you, Jonathan.
"You were right," he whispered.
"I'm usually right."
"Okay, but I mean about the bond. You told me to be patient, and you were right."
"Yes."
"Will I ever be able to read your thoughts?" he asked, wondering just how far their bond could progress.
"That is a complicated process, but I believe we could both read each other's thoughts if we wished to."
"So you can only pick up on my emotions?"
Yes, and of course we can communicate telepathically with each other. Would you like me to read your thoughts?
Let's give it a try and see what happens.
T'Pol could sense how deeply Jonathan trusted her — he was willing to share his innermost self with her. She took his hand in hers and instructed him to close his eyes and relax. She closed her own eyes and concentrated on him. She bypassed the surface emotions easily and plunged deeper into the recesses of his mind.
Tonight his thoughts were only of her — his love for her permeated all of them. There was a deep inner contentment and joy coupled with desire. She sensed how excitable he was over the new development in their bond. As she went deeper she saw that he was happy with his life, and found his job as Admiral fulfilling. She saw that he loved being married and being able to share his life with her. She found that his happiest moment of the day was coming home to her.
Thank you, Jonathan, for your trust.
I have no secrets, sweetheart.
I think we'll leave it there for tonight, I don't wish to probe any further. If you are willing we could do this in stages, and let you become accustomed.
He nodded and opened his eyes, blinking a few times as if trying to clear something from his eyes. "Are you all right?" she asked.
"Just a little out of focus at first, I'm fine now."
"Probably a side effect of what I just did. I think it is prudent to take this one step at a time."
"Sure, but it's so exciting! So think I can do the same with you?" He sounded like a young child with a new toy.
"I would rather not try tonight, but perhaps tomorrow. I will have to lower my mental shields — my thoughts could be a little overwhelming."
"Why? Cause they aren't all about me?" he teased.
She raised her eyebrow at him in response. "Believe me when I say it could be overwhelming. And again I need to caution you that you may not be able to pick up on my thoughts straight away, it may take more time."
"Okay, I think I learnt my lesson on patience." He smiled at her. "You know it's not really that late," he said as he trailed a finger down her bare arm. She was wearing a negligee; similar to the one she'd worn on their wedding night, though this was a deep wine color. "And if you're not sleepy—"
She didn't allow him to finish his sentence, but kissed him instead. I'm not tired. Why do you think I invited you to bed?
His eyebrows waggled at her directness. I'm sorry I took so long.
Soon all logical thoughts were whisked away from their brains as they succumbed to the pleasures of each other's touch. Making love was always exhilarating and satisfying for them but tonight there was a difference. With their bond in full force, their emotions were heightened — it was as if two souls had finally become one person, in an unbreakable impervious union.
T'Pol stood by her bedroom window as her husband lay in bed asleep. She pulled the curtain back to watch the sunrise. She studied the scene before her: the waves crashed against the shore with unyielding power, as they had done before the dawn of time. People were already out on the beach, getting their morning constitutional in. There were several joggers passing her house, and a young girl walking her dog.
Each of them had their routine and their lives. She'd begun to recognize the same people, as she'd often watched from the window if she woke before Jonathan.
And now she had her own routine and life. T'Pol felt a deep inner contentment and peace at the changes in her life. Marriage agreed with her. It was rewarding to have someone to confide in and share her life with. Whatever happened during the day at the Consulate, good or bad, she knew he'd be waiting at home to spend the evening with her and that was an appealing thought.
She tiptoed out of the bedroom and made her way downstairs to the kitchen to make Jonathan some coffee. He'd be awake in a few minutes — he seemed to wake up on schedule without the need for an alarm clock. As the coffee brewed she fed Porthos, who'd heard her milling around the kitchen and figured he could get breakfast early.
Returning to the bedroom she placed the steaming coffee on his side table. His eyes flickered open and he smiled. Good morning, beautiful.
"Good morning to you too, Jonathan."
He sat up in bed and patted the space beside him, indicating for her to sit down. Accepting his invitation, she seated herself and kissed him good morning. "Did you sleep well?"
"Oh yeah…the little sleep I got."
"Then the caffeine will come in handy."
"Sure will, sweetheart," he answered taking the cup in his hand. It was still very hot so he blew on it and took a sip. "This is great, thanks."
"You're welcome." As her eyes roved over him, she was reminded of what an attractive man she'd married. Jonathan recognized that look and it made him smile. "You ogling me again?"
"It's my prerogative," she answered, running her fingers down his bare chest. "Jonathan, I have an early morning meeting with my staff so I won't be able to join you for breakfast."
"Oh…okay."
"I'll be home just after 6pm."
"Okay, I'll see you then." She kissed him again and then prepared to leave for the Consulate.
Jonathan sat at the breakfast table nibbling at his scrambled eggs with the news on in the background. He couldn't be happier. He had the woman he loved at his side, who'd vowed to stay with him for the rest of his days. That alone was enough to make him feel fulfilled and happy. He knew there'd be days when he missed Enterprise, but he felt excitement about what the future held. The Federation was young and he'd be on hand to oversee any teething problems. Who knew where that career path could take him; the opportunities were endless.
Yes the changes in his life were all for the good. Who'd have known that the brash young Vulcan who'd challenged him all those years ago at Starfleet Medical would end up being the key to his happiness?
He dressed and prepared to head out to Starfleet for his day at the office. Admiral Douglas and the engineering team had promised to show him some new engine specs and he was rather excited to see them. He bid Porthos goodbye and closed the door behind him, walking up the drive with a skip in his step. He smiled as he looked forward to the coming evening with T'Pol. He'd probably fill her in on his day, telling her in an animated tone all about the new engines, and she'd patiently listen and sometimes ask a question or two. Then she'd relate how her day went.
The evenings were his favourite part of the day — something which had rarely been true on Enterprise. It was so nice to come home, see the lights on and know she was waiting for him.
As he entered his office, Lieutenant Harding noticed the grin plastered on his face. "Something amusing, sir?" she inquired.
"No, Emma, just feeling happy. How are you, today?"
"Very well, sir."
"That's great. So what's on the agenda this morning?"
She explained that Admiral Douglas and the engineers would be arriving at 11am as planned and reminded him that he needed to review some reports that were due in this afternoon.
"Okay, I better get busy then."
Emma shut the door behind her, and Jonathan got out of his chair to look outside his window. The Golden Gate Bridge stood majestically spanning the strait between San Francisco and Sausalito. He could just make out the Vulcan Consulate on the opposite side and his thoughts turned to T'Pol. He hoped her day was going well.
He returned to his desk to address the reports Emma was so anxious he read. He smiled. Life was good. He couldn't suppress that wonderful feeling of happiness.
With T'Pol at his side he looked to the future with promise and excitement.
Changes could be for the better, and in this case they'd been a vast improvement. Yes, T'Pol was right, as she always was.
THE END