Chakotay arrived at the new unofficial movie theatre a few minutes late, and everyone else was already there. He greeted Kathryn with a warm smile. They had agreed not to openly acknowledge their budding relationship just yet. Even though it was no secret that something was going on, they valued that last shroud of uncertainty as long as it lasted.
Tom handed him a beer – weird stuff, but I could get used to it – and everyone was settling on and around the couches, already joking and laughing about the previous films. Seven pointed out that she had gotten an 'efficient' summary from Tuvok, to which the Doctor added sarcastically "you can imagine how entertaining that was – Tuvok left out none of the saucy details!" Tuvok raised an eyebrow, the others grinned.
Somehow, they all managed to fit around the small table. Harry had graciously offered the armchair to Seven and settled on the floor with a pillow - for that he earned a playful sigh from Tom. He also handed her some popcorn, highly encouraging her to try it. The Doctor had actually reprogrammed his clothes and looked comfortable, sitting next to Tuvok, who in turn didn't look as if he appreciated the Doctor's proximity. Chakotay sat down on his usual spot next to Kathryn, who was already bent over her popcorn and chatting away with B'Elanna. He marvelled again at their talent to transform into giddy girls when they met up like this. Six years ago, if he'd been asked to describe B'Elanna, the last word to consider would have been 'girly'. As soon as the room darkened, Kathryn's hand found his and his arm crept around her shoulders. A now familiar and welcomed warmth spread through him.
Return of the Jedi was great fun, and even Seven and Tuvok seemed to 'enjoy' themselves. B'Elanna and Kathryn sighed when they saw Han Solo and grabbed each other's hands when Leia tried to save him. Tom giggled and earned a slap. Seven wanted to start an argument over the attractiveness of men in general, but was quickly silenced by the others. The Doctor was particularly disgusted by Jabba and suggested immediate treatment. During the evening he also exhibited strong sympathy for the droids, especially C3PO, who was 'treated unfairly by everyone' and reminded him of 'someone he knew'. The boys whistled at Leia's slave girl outfit and cheered when she killed Jabba. Chakotay suggested a redesign of the Voyager uniforms in slave-girl-attire and Jedi coats, because it came off so dashing. Tom and Harry supported the idea and added a replacement of phasers with lightsabres to the list.
"I can assure you gentlemen, that would be against protocol."
Kathryn surprised them. "Oh Tuvok, I think a Jedi outfit would look particularly … 'dashing' on you." Quoting Chakotay she grinned up at him. He had to resist to kiss her in front of everyone, and it wasn't easy.
They were all excited at the following battles, and Harry planned to recreate them on the holodeck. Tom was raptured at the race through the woods and put the small racers on his to-build list along with an X-Wing.
"That would hardly be an efficient use of your abilites; these are impractical vehicles."
"It's not about efficeny, Seven, these are FUN."
"I'm sure Luke and Leia wouldn't agree."
They all stared at her now, and Seven curled up a smug smile. Realising she was joking they all laughed and the Doctor complimented her on her improved social skills – which completely sent Tom into a fit of giggles. "Yeah, Doc, you'll make a comedian of her yet." B'Elanna grinned and Harry tried his best not to look too amused.
What completely knocked them all off their seats were the Ewoks. While Kathryn only mumbled that they were 'somewhat cute', B'Elanna was nearly hysterical with laughter. Someone mentioned how glad they were for universal translators, so they wouldn't have to rely on smart ass droids. The Doctor only huffed. When Luke went to talk to Vader, Harry couldn't resist imitating him again.
"Resistance is futile."
"I find that analogy flawed." Harry looked up, a little scared, but then saw Seven giving him a lopsided grin. He tried to put on an innocent look. A little later the Doctor suggested skin cream for the emperor, but was quickly silenced by the others who followed the – according to Tom, 'epic' - lightsabre battle. Not even B'Elanna could rant about the 'structural integrity' of the Death Star anymore because she was so enthralled by the space fight. Tom and her had both leaned forward, moving with the flying ships.
At the happy ending, they all relaxed and leaned back, enjoying the mood set by the music. B'Elanna and Kathryn both had tears in their eyes, and were especially joyed by Han and Leia. Harry complained that Luke didn't get a girl. Chakotay was smiling all the time, whether it was because of her in his arms or the film, Kathryn didn't know. He kissed her eyebrow when she turned her face to him. Her expression became a little surprised and shocked, and Chakotay looked equally surprised by his action, but only Tuvok had seen them, and raised an 'intrigued' eyebrow. Kathryn was a little nervous. In her mind she always pictured Tuvok as her last hurdle. He seemed to embody all that Starfleet held dear, all the principles and regulations, even more than herself. If he hadn't already shown her his support, she didn't know what she would do.
After a while, Tom grinned at Tuvok. "You've been awfully quiet, Tuvok – wasn't there anything worth commenting on?"
"I have had many chances to comment on illogical characters or plot development. However, I saw no purpose in this action."
Seven sat up straight. "This activity is a waste of time." As they all looked somewhat disappointed, she quickly added, "but it is a good way to enhance my experience in social gatherings. I thank you for the opportunity." Tom grinned. "Anytime." B'Elanna shot him a warning glare, but he only winked back. They continued to chat about the film and Tom's construction plans for a while, but Kathryn was quiet, only listening for a change. She really enjoyed being with her officers – her friends like this, a casual meeting, where she could just be Kathryn and didn't have to order anyone around. She was surprised that they all accepted her so easily, she had expected more reserve toward her. Just as her feelings for Chakotay added to her happiness, so did having fun with her crew – and neither was interfering with her duties. She didn't need to drop the happy, caring part of herself when she put on her uniform. This was a remarkable experience – how much have I denied myself?
Tuvok and Seven after a while agreed to leave and as the Doctor was about to embark on an extensive analysis of Darth Vader's implants in comparison with Borg technology, they all quickly made excuses to cut the evening off. The Doctor was disappointed, but Seven invited him to share his thoughts with her – after she'd regenerated. Before Kathryn made it to the door, she looked at Tom, B'Elanna and Harry, who were starting to clean up a little. When Tom noticed, he came over. "Something the matter Kathryn?" She still wasn't used to them calling her that, but it felt good.
"I'm just glad..." She didn't elaborate. Tom understood and nodded, smiling.
Chakotay stepped next to her, seeing that she was getting a little emotional. He just wanted to take her in his arms, tell her how much he loved it to see her like this. He brought a few popcorn bowls and handed them to Tom. "Thanks for the nice evening. I hope this wasn't the last?"
"Oh I don't know. Wouldn't you rather go to the holodeck again?"
"I've been thinking. We could create a movie theatre programme on the holodeck. Feel up to it?"
Tom looked surprised but quickly caught on the idea. "Yeah, why not – we could watch classics and sit in the real chairs and all. Well, half-real anyway. Good idea."
"Well, they were your idea, the 'Voyager Movie Nights'. Don't complain if you're gaining followers! I expect regular reports on the project," Chakotay added with a wink. Tom grinned. "Yes, sir."
Chakotay offered a grinning Kathryn his arm. "You free for a nightcap?" Her smile spoke volumes. "Sure thing, Commander." She hooked her arm in his and they said their goodbyes. Just as they left through the door, Chakotay caught B'Elanna giving Kathryn a wink and a thumb up. He couldn't begin to fathom how Tom would assault her after that, pressing for saucy details. Kathryn grinned happily.
"Now what was that all about," Chakotay asked as they made their way to the turbolift. He marveled again at how good they could communicate without talking. Their hooked arms smoothly changed into arm-in-arm walking like the night before.
"Oh nothing," she grinned. "Just a girls' thing."
"I never pictured you the person for 'girls' things', I'm surprised – but impressed."
She grinned, slightly embarrassed. He bent down a little and whispered in her ear. "And I can assure you, this wasn't the first time." Kathryn blushed madly now. "Earlier on the holodeck... you're such an amazing woman." They stepped into the lift and he turned to pull her closer. She avoided his gaze but seemed flattered. He had never seen her so nervous and touched before. "I am a really fortunate man." Now she looked at him, smiling her infectious smile, her beautiful eyes sparkling. "And I am a very fortunate woman." Her expression turned playful, teasing. "But if you think flattery will get you anywhere..."
He finished for her. "I know it will." She glared at him – she's such a fighter. Who knew she'd let me into her shell, see her like this... it must've taken her a lot of strength to give up her guard, to let me make her feel this way.
Just when she was establishing that she wouldn't fall for his 'nasty tricks', he silently took her face in his hands and kissed her gently. She first wanted to protest, but quickly wrapped his arms around him, surrendering once more. They quickly broke apart when the turbolift stopped; lucky, since a few metres into the corridor they met a crew member heading for the lift. She greeted them politely, but seemed the tiniest bit nervous about the command teams casual attire and flustered expressions. When they reached his quarters, Chakotay quickly punched in his code and they scurried inside.