A/N Thanks so much to noro and Mojo01 for your reviews. I wish I could convey how much they mean to me. I also want to again thank all of you that are still with me. These characters do not belong to me.
The rest of the time before Archer and T'Pol were due to return to work were hectic to say the least. It also included a series of major changes.
As they had planned, Hoshi and Travis contacted Archer about leaving active service. Archer was surprised at first, but then realized they were right. It was unlikely that they would be together as shipmates again. He was happy when they told him they wanted to have a baby. He had to smile to himself though that he felt like his kids were having sex. After an exchange of hugs, including T'Pol and Hoshi, and promises to stay in touch, Archer arranged for them to meet with the needed representatives from Starfleet.
As was to be expected, Starfleet Academy was thrilled to have Travis join them, to have a pilot of his experience and expertise as a teacher was a huge leap in its prestige.
As for Hoshi, the Research arm showed a great deal of interest. They asked her to submit an outline of what she was proposing and promised to give it their highest consideration.
Archer and T'Pol followed up on their promise to visit Trip and Natalie. Archer and the others were pleased when T'Pol needed no urging to hold Rose. Although Archer and T'Pol knew what had happened before, they could not help feel a little bit of sadness when Trip told them that he was going through with his plans to leave Starfleet and work for Lester Warren.
At the same time, they were proud of him and knew the future of Starfleet's starships were in good hands. A couple weeks later, Charles Tucker III was made Executive Vice President at Warren Enterprises in charge of Spaceship and Warp Technology.
While they were visiting, Natalie told them about her visit to Elizabeth's grave and asked if they would help her fulfill her promise. Everyone was moved by what she said and quickly agreed. Taking two cars they made their way to the small hill. As they all stood by the grave, Natalie, fighting some tears, "Hi, Elizabeth. As I promised, we have all come to visit you." Holding out Rose, she said, "This is the baby I told you about. Your Daddy and I will do our best to love her as much as your Mommy and Daddy love you. This is Charlie, our son. You did not get to know Jonathan Archer but he is a dear friend of both your mother and father."
Then Trip and T'Pol moved forward as Trip spoke up, "Hey, Elizabeth, your Mom and I just want to say ourselves how much we love and miss you. You will always hold a place in our hearts." As he teared up, T'Pol reached out and grasped his hand, squeezing it softly. Trip looked gratefully at her and instinctively turned and gave her a hug which she returned. They moved back to Natalie and Archer who looked lovingly at them and took their hands.
After standing for a few more moments, they made their way back down the hill.
A couple days after they visited Edna Simpson, Starfleet Housing contacted them that they had found a house they might be interested in.
It turned out to be exactly what they were looking for. It was south of San Francisco and located on a bluff overlooking the ocean. It came with a private stretch of beach. It could only be accessed by a long driveway or by shuttle. There was also a gate where the road exited from the main highway.
The minute they saw it, they knew it was what they were looking for. Each of them had accumulated a large amount of money as salaries which they had just put in savings. They were able to make a large down payment and the house soon was theirs.
They hired an interior director and entrusted her with furnishing the house based on their recommendations.
With all that had been going on, they had reluctantly been putting of another stop they wanted to make. With only a couple days left before the time was up, they found their way to a new house located next to the building housing the Mercy McBride Foundation.
John and Jane met them at the door. John spoke first, "Welcome home, Admiral and Commodore. It's an honor to see you both again."
Archer smiled, "Thank you, Captain, but I think the circumstances warrant that it be Jonathan and T'Pol, John."
John nodded but doubted he would ever feel completely comfortable doing so.
Then Jane rushed forward and gave Archer a hug. She then stepped back, and looked at both of them, "God, it is so wonderful to see you both again, I prayed each day for your safe return."
Archer smiled, "It's great to be home." He looked over at the building next door, "Very impressive, I have heard nothing but good things about the Foundation. You must be proud of what you have accomplished."
Jane smiled back, "Yes, we have come a long way." She turned and looked lovingly at John, "I never would have gotten this far without John's help. I am not afraid to say I once wondered if I had bitten off more than I could chew."
John reached out and took her hand, "She is being modest, Adm… Jonathan, all I did was help get it organized. She is the force that has made what we have accomplished possible."
Jane squeezed his hand and continued, "Whatever we have accomplished will mean little of we do not find a cure."
T'Pol spoke up, "How is that proceeding?"
Jane answered, "We have been fortunate to have obtained the services of some of the finest minds in the world. They believe they have found a promising line of research. We know much more about the disease than before, but if it will lead to a cure is far from a foregone conclusion."
She continued, "But, where are our manners, let's get into the house." She moved forward and they all found their way to the living room, where all were seated. After being fortified with coffee and tea for T'Pol, Jane spoke again.
"We were so exited to hear about your wedding. From the beginning I sensed there was something special between you." She turned to T'Pol, "Mercy was so happy and proud when you told her your feelings about Jonathan before anyone else." She hesitated and teared up a little, "I so wish she could be here to see you two as man and wife. She would be so happy."
John moved over and put his arm around her as she gratefully leaned into him, T'Pol spoke up, "Ever since Mercy died, I have felt that I lost a part of me. She was very important to me."
John and Jane could not completely hide their surprise at such an emotional statement coming from T'Pol. They realized then how much of an impact Mercy had on her.
Archer, looking lovingly at T'Pol, "She had a large impact on all of us. We were so surprised but pleased when we saw what Admiral Gardner had done in naming a starship after her." He turned to John, "I know you will be glad to hear that Captain Benson carried on your tradition of living up to her name."
John smiled, "Thank you, Admiral, I appreciate that."
Archer smiled back, then turned to Jane, "When we last saw Mercy she asked that we would visit you all when we return. Do Mercy's grandparents still run that Orange Stand?"
"Yes, they are still there. They would be thrilled if you were to visit them."
Archer turned to T'Pol, "How about another ride on a Hover Bike?"
T'Pol raised her eyebrows a little, "I would not object to that."
They talked for some time about general events that had happened in the war after John was sent home, especially in regard to the Mercy McBride. They also discussed what was specifically happening with the efforts to cure Torrin. They also talked about memories of Mercy.
Before they knew it, over six hours had passed. Jane asked if they wanted to stay for supper, but Archer said they needed to get back.
As they were getting up to leave, promising they would keep in touch, Archer and T'Pol asked them to not tell the grandparents of their planned visit, wanting to surprise them.
As they approached the door, Jane appeared to come to a decision. She hesitantly spoke up, "Jonathan, I know this is presumptuous of me and I am not sure I should ask," after a hesitation, she blurted out, "Do you think it would be possible for you and T'Pol to make an appearance at a fund raiser and maybe make a commercial to support the Foundation."
Archer and T'Pol were surprised and perhaps a little shocked. Archer paused for a time and then said, "I am sure that Starfleet would not be comfortable for us to do so. There are regulations against us using our positions to promote private concerns."
Seeing the look of disappointment on Jane's face, he continued, "But, because of the special circumstances surrounding Mercy, it might be possible Admiral Gardner would allow us to speak out. However, I doubt that a commercial would be considered."
Jane smiled, "I understand, Jonathan, anything you can do would be appreciated."
"We will discuss it with Admiral Gardner to see what we can come up with."
As they reached the door, Archer turned back, "There is one more thing. Could you give us directions to Mercy's gravesite?"
After receiving the information, they exchanged goodbyes and made their way to their Shuttle.
As they headed for the apartment, deciding they would wait until the next day to visit Mercy's grave and travel to Florida, T'Pol broke the silence, "Do you believe that Admiral Gardner will allow us to speak in public in support of the Foundation?"
"I admit it is a long shot, but I am hoping we can work something out."
As they approached their landing site, T'Pol spoke again, "Do you think it is necessary for us to ride a Hover Bike to see the Grandparents?"
"I just thought it would be fun to recreate the first meeting." He turned toward her, "I think it would be something Mercy would enjoy."
T'Pol pondered that for a moment, "I believe you are right."
Archer smirked, "But the real reason is, I want to see you in those jeans again."
T'Pol tried to look disdainfully at him, but he saw through her. She finally said, "I did not realize you desired that. I shall endeavor to find more occasions to wear them."
Archer gave her a look that made T'Pol want to get into the apartment as soon as possible. They made it to the couch.
The next day they traveled to a small cemetery outside San Francisco. When they reached Mercy's grave, they had to smile when they saw the Starfleet Logo on the headstone. It read
Mercy McBride
Honorary Starfleet Commander
Beloved Daughter
Victim Torrin Syndrome
You have to accept whatever comes and
The only important thing is that you
Meet it with courage and with the best you have to give
-Eleanor Roosevelt
Born 2145- Died 2157
After standing silent for a few moments, Archer spoke, "Hi, Mercy. We talked to your Mom and John yesterday. I know you are happy for your Mother. I know you would have loved John; he is a good man and I know he loves your mother deeply. I just want to say how much your courage and love gave us strength during some very difficult times. I know I speak for the entire fleet when I tell you that you set an example for us all. It especially inspired the crew of the ship named in your honor."
He smiled, "Do you know what T'Pol said when she first saw the ship? She said Cool."
"We love you Mercy and miss you as if you were our own child."
As Archer finished, T'Pol said quietly, "Can you leave us alone for a moment, Jonathan?"
He looked surprised for a second but then smiled fondly, "Of course."
As Archer moved away, T'Pol knelt by the grave. "I just want you to know what a profound effect you have had on my life. Knowing you has made me a better person. I truly believe that you were a part of my ability to love Jonathan. When you said I was like a second mother, I realized how important you are and will always be to me. I love you, Mercy. If I should ever have a child, I would wish nothing more than she remind me of you."
As a tear fell from her eyes, "Goodbye, Mercy."
As she rose, Archer came to her and enveloped her in his arms as he teared up also. Then hand in hand, they made their way back to their Shuttle.
After arriving in Florida, they rented a Hover Bike and found their way to the familiar orange stand. When they arrived, it was like time stood still. It looked the same.
This time, however, George recognized them at once before they removed their helmets, "Admiral, Commodore, it is so wonderful to see you." He hesitated, "With you on that bike…"
As they came up to him, Archer began, "Hello, George. I hope it didn't bother you, we just felt it would be something Mercy would appreciate."
"No, I am glad you did it. It brings back some happy memories. I don't know if we ever thanked you enough for what you did for Mercy."
Just then they were joined by Martha. "I thought I heard your voices. It is so great to have you back. And congratulations on your wedding. I was so thrilled to hear it." She grew sad for a moment, "I just wish Mercy could be here to see it."
Archer continued, "I know, but I want to believe she knows. As for you thanking us, Mercy gave us much more than anything we did for her."
T'Pol spoke up, "We visited her grave earlier, I was pleased with the setting and tombstone. I believe Mercy would have loved it as well."
"Thank you. Most of it was Jane's ideas, but we all feel we contributed. We also owed a great deal to Admiral Gardner, who allowed us to use the references to Starfleet."
They spent some more time talking about Mercy and a little about the Starship named after her. Then once again receiving free oranges they remounted the Hover Bike and returned to their shuttle.
As they neared the apartment, T'Pol turned to Archer, "Jonathan, do not take this the wrong way, but tonight I feel the need to just be held."
Archer smiled lovingly at her, "I understand, T'Pol, I need that as well."
Just three days before they returned to work, the house was ready for them to move in. They were both pleased and satisfied with what the interior decorator had done. That very night, they made love in their new bedroom. T'Pol had not realized how much she had wanted this; to have a home of her own with Jonathan.
A week after they returned to work they had a house warming to share their new home with their friends.
Trip and Natalie brought Lester Warren with them while Hoshi and Travis attended as well. Archer and T'Pol were surprised but pleased when Malcolm was able to bring Penelope. Admiral Gardner and his wife also attended. Everyone was glad to see John and Jane.
The real excitement was created when they found out Phlox had returned to Earth and he and Feezal were able to attend. The Fleet had dropped Phlox off on Denobula on their way to Teller. There had been a threat of a spreading virus and his help had been requested.
Thankfully, the virus had been contained. While he was on Denobula, Phlox realized he needed to make some difficult decisions. It had been apparent to him for some time he no longer wished to remain on Denobula. His children were all grown and he missed his friends on Earth.
After a frank discussion with his family, two of his wives decided to separate from him and remain with their other husbands. Only Feezal decided to be with him, leaving her other families.
After everyone had taken a tour of the house, they were fortified with drinks and broke into several groups. Trip and Natalie were talking to Hoshi and Travis. Hoshi had informed them that they were trying to have a baby. They then talked about their new jobs. Hoshi told them that Jon had told her that Starfleet was going to fund her research to make changes to the translators.
Malcolm had drawn Natalie aside and told her about what had happened with Trip and Feezal when they had first met. Working with Phlox and Feezal, they decided to play a little trick on Trip.
As Travis and Hoshi left them to talk with Malcolm and Penelope, Feezal and Phlox joined Trip and Natalie. Natalie smiled to herself as she saw how Trip looked a little uncomfortable.
His discomfort grew when Feezal immediately got close to him, "It is good to see you again, Commander. I see that married life agrees with you." She then rubbed her leg against his, causing him to move back as if he had been hit by an electric charge.
Phlox then stepped in, "Feezal and I realized our mistake when she approached you on Enterprise. It troubled you that she was married and you were not. Since then we have learned that human couples often how do you say it 'swing'."
"I suggest that we indulge in that. Feezal has already shown her interest in you and your wife is certainly lovely as well."
Trip's jaw dropped. "What the Hell…?"
Before he could say more, Natalie spoke up, "That sounds intriguing, Doctor. I have heard how you Denobulans have been able to satisfy three wives."
Now Trip was driven speechless. As he sputtered, Natalie moved closer to Phlox.
Seeing Trip's state, Malcolm decided it had gone far enough, He joined the group and said, "Oh, Trip, you are so gullible."
Then seeing the grins on everyone's faces, Trip finally took a breath.
Natalie came over to him and grabbing his arm leaned over and kissed him on the mouth. "I am sorry, Trip but it sounded like too much fun to resist. She then smirked at him, "If you ever did try anything like that, I would see to it that it would be the last sex you would ever have."
With Feezal and Penelope smiling and the men grimacing, Trip nodded.
Soon, everyone moved outside to where a selection of several foods had been laid out. They took in the view as some moved down to walk along the beach.
When Natalie and Penelope joined a group of other wives, Malcolm and Trip talked together. "That was a pretty dirty trick, Malcolm, I could have had a heart attack."
"I am sorry, but you should have seen the look on your face. Besides, I felt I owed you one after that little prank you pulled on me when we returned from the Romulan ship."
Trip looked over at Natalie and the others, "Penelope seems to be a great girl, you are a lucky man, Malcolm."
Malcolm followed his eyes, "We both are. But I am afraid we are going to spend a lot of time apart."
"Do you have any orders yet?"
"For now, I have been assigned to Starfleet Security." He hesitated, "I am to be promoted to full Commander."
"That's great, Malcolm, Congratulations."
Malcolm nodded, "As soon as a position opens, I plan to serve on a Starship again."
"In some ways, I envy you, but I wouldn't give up spending time with my family for anything."
He then went on, "I have missed seeing you. Why don't you and Penelope pay us a visit? You are always welcome."
"Thanks, Trip, we would like that. I would really like to see Rose."
Trip nodded and then noticed Natalie and Penelope were returning to them. Natalie spoke up, "Penelope and I were just saying that we should get together one of these days."
Trip smiled, "Malcolm and I had just been saying the same."
Eventually, the party broke up and Archer and T'Pol said their goodbyes at the door. Everyone had nothing but compliments for the house and expressed their best wishes for Archer and T'Pol.
