Chapter 6

By the fourth day Kira had come to terms with the fact that she would not be seeing Dukat anytime soon. For the first couple of days she had secretly hoped that he would show up, but by the third day her enthusiasm had turned into relief. Without Dukat hanging around the station she would be able to put the past behind her and move on with her life. That thought however, gave her little comfort. On the 5th day she debated contacting him. Her mostly forgotten plan still gingerly lingering in her mind. But she couldn't bring herself to do it, unsure what she would actually say to him. Realistically she wanted to give him a piece of her mind, yell at him for being a royal asshole and be done with it. But she knew that Dukat would take pleasure in the fact that she had broken down and contacted him, even more so if it was only to yell at him. She shook the thoughts from her head. `Of all the stupid plans Nerys`, she thought. By the time the week had finished and Kira was looking forward to a day to herself, she had mostly forgotten about Dukat.

"So... you and Dukat?" Jadzia asked, popping some Gagh into her mouth.

Kira choked on her Hasperat and squeaked, "Excuse me!"

"Well you brought him back from Bajor," Jadzia continued, slightly confused.

"Oh, yes... Bajor." Kira stumbled, her face flushing.

"Is something wrong?" Jadzia pressed, leaning forward.

"No! Nothing... Why would anything be wrong?" Kira took a sip of her water.

"You seem on edge all of a sudden... when I mentioned Dukat."

Kira sighed, she was trying to figure out a plausible reason for her response when both of their com badges chirped.

Kira pressed her badge institutionally, "Kira here. I'm with Jadzia."

"Come to the bridge, now!" Sisko demanded.

Kira and Jadzia's eyes widened. They both bolted, leaving the rest of their meal and rushed towards the turbo lift.

After an agonizingly slow ride they finally reached Ops.

"What's going on?" Kira asked, as soon as she set foot on the bridge.

"It's the Jem H'adar. We've received word that an army is on it's way," Sisko shouted.

"What? Why?" Jadzia asked.

"We knew it was coming sometime. We just hadn't expected it to be so soon," Sisko's tone was forced. "I've already contacted the Federation but by the time they arrive it might already be too late. The station is out fitted with weapons but depending on how many ships come through that worm hole it might not be enough. We need everyone to battle stations, but mostly we need help."

"What about Bajor?" Kira asked.

"Bajor isn't in any position to help. They can send some reinforcements but, we need an army," Sisko continued, "The Klingons would probably pick the wrong side and the fight would be over before the Romulans decided whether or not they should join. We need someone now."

"Then that only leaves Gul Dukat," Kira stated

Sisko barked out a laugh, "And what makes you think that Gul Dukat would help us?"

"We know that he wants the space station back, it wouldn't do him any good if it's destroyed."

"True. Well he might be the best that we have. Get me Gul Dukat!"

Sisko sat in his chair, his fingers templed before him. It wasn't long until the familiar figure of Gul Dukat showed up on the view finder.

"To what do I owe this pleasure?" Gul Dukat smiled.

"Dukat, we don't have time for pleasantries. An army of Jem H`adar are on their way and we need reinforcements."

"And you asked me... well don't I feel special. What about your precious federation?" He sneered.

"They are still a few days away and by then it will be too late. We need assistance now," Sisko kept his tone firm.

Dukat flashed his eyes around the room, pursing his lips.

"Dukat! Do I need to remind you who saved your ass on Bajor?" Sisko bargained.

"Mmm, so true. Very well, I shall assist," He gave a parting smile before his figure blipped off the screen.

Sisko looked at Kira, "What does that mean?"

Kira shrugged, she had no idea, but she did know that right at this moment she felt like punching Dukat in his smug little face.

It was only a matter of hours before Jadzia's voice broke the tension, "Ships incoming!"

"Who is it?" Sisko inquired.

"It's the Cardassians," Jadzia's voice betrayed her relief.

Sisko clapped his hands together, slapped his chair and stood up.

Jadzia continued surprised, "They brought twenty ships."

"Twenty?" Sisko laughed, it was more than he had hoped for, "Apparently Dukat is feeling generous today."

Kira's heart fluttered a little in her chest but she tampered it down. 'Now is not the time,' she thought.

"We are being hailed," Jadzia called out.

"On screen!" Sisko barked.

Dukat's grinning face filled the screen, "Permission to board?"

"Granted," Sisko couldn't help but grin like a mad man.

For the first time in his life Sisko felt like he could hug Dukat. Kira scoffed. Dukat's figure shimmered and materialized on the bridge. Getting up Sisko went over and heartfully shook Dukat's hand. Dukat dutifully shook it, beaming in pleasure as everyone fawned over him.

"I was hoping to stay on the space station until I might be needed. I have been in space for awhile and my quarters are starting to feel a little cramped," Dukat made a show of stretching his limbs.

"By all means, stay," Sisko gestured in the direction of the lift, "Kira! Get Dukat some quarters!"

'Why is it always me...?' Kira grumped.

Dukat smiled at Kira, nodding he followed her into the turbolift.

As the lift began to move Kira felt Dukat's fingers reaching out towards hers. Kira expertly slapped them away and brought her hands together behind her back.

"Major?" Dukat questioned.

Kira fumed beside him. Her fists clenched, nails digging into her palms. She practically shook with fury. When the lift stopped she stomped down the hallway to Odo's office. Dukat followed silently, confusion clearly written across his face. As the doors to Odo's office slide open Odo's witty response was cut off by the cloud of fury that was Kira.

"Major..." Odo stated.

Kira tipped her head, a forced smile crossing her lips, "Quarters for Dukat."

"Yes... Sisko informed me that you would be on your way. Conveniently the quarters that Dukat used last time he was here are available so I have set them aside. Would you like me to escort him the rest of the way, Major?"

"Oh no... It's quite alright," Kira's smile widened and Odo suddenly feared for Dukat's safety.

The walk to Dukat's quarters was silent and tense. Kira was still pissed at Dukat for offering a date and then clearly not making it happen. Dukat was oblivious to the reason but could clearly see and feel that Kira was quite upset with him. He needed to ask but he knew better then to ask Kira in public.

"It's nice to be back home," Dukat teased once they reached his quarters.

Kira screamed, punching Dukat in the chest once they had entered the quarters, "What the hell is wrong with you!"

Dukat blinked, confused, "Whatever do you mean?"

Kira rubbed her fist, 'stupid armor'.

"You were just going to let the station get attacked by the Jem H'dar!" She pushed.

"I came with 20 ships!" Dukat barked annoyed.

He had expected her to be annoyed by how late their date was but he hadn't expected her to be annoyed by him coming to the rescue.

"Not until after Sisko reminded you how we... I... saved your ass from some rebels on Bajor."

"I wanted something plausible to tell the government," Dukat intoned.

Kira bristled, it made sense. It always made sense but she still wished that a little bit of it had been for her safety.

Dukat noticing the mood changed stated again, "I did bring 20 ships."

Kira glanced back up at him. She nodded. This was true, he did bring 20 ships, which was an entire fleet, he could have gotten away with bringing a dozen, or even 5.

"Really Major, did you expect me to tell them that the women I'm fucking needs my assistance. I doubt that would be considered a plausible reason."

Kira frowned, he didn't have to be so crass about it. Dukat took a step towards her.

"Now...have I bought your favor?" He whispered leaning towards her.

Disgusted, Kira stepped out of the space and moved towards the door, "I have to head back to the bridge. Enjoy yourself."

"Ohhh. I do love the bridge. Perhaps I shall accompany you," Dukat made a move to follow but Kira put her hand on his chest and Dukat stilled.

"Sisko hates it when you're there," Kira replied flatly.

"That's part of the reason why I love being there," Dukat practically bounced with glee.

"Perhaps another time," She pressed.

They stared at each other for some time before Dukat spoke up, "For Sisko I would have brought only a couple ships. For you, I bring a fleet."

Kira's heart pounded in her chest. Dukat watched her closely, he reached up and placed a hand on top of hers.

Without over thinking it Kira reached up and gave him a quick peck on the lips, "I'll see you after."

Dukat rubbed a thumb across the back of her hand, "As you wish. Perhaps I will take the opportunity to catch up on some reading."

Kira pulled away as if she had been burned, Dukat smiled to himself.

"For once you have a good idea," Kira had meant it to sound more menacing but the heat rushing to her face caused her tone to falter.

While Dukat was most likely out having a lovely time, Kira was hiding out on the bridge attempting to work through her feelings. She still felt anger whenever she saw his smug face but she also had to face the realization that their current intimacy was why Sisko now had 20 ships. Which she had to admit, made her feel plenty powerful. Even Sisko was surprised at the armada that was now afforded to him. He kept talking about how peace with the Cardassians was working and how the Cardassians had surprised him. But every time Sisko brought up this new found peace, Kira was reminded of how fickle the circumstances really were. There was peace with Cardassia, if she was sleeping with Dukat, which isn't a very sound foundation. Blinded before by her singular plan and overwhelming emotions Kira was now starting to see the consequences of her actions. What happened when Dukat found out the truth. He would be beside himself with anger and then 20 ships would once again be returning... this time for a different reason. Kira mulled her lip between her teeth. There was a small chance that he would be impressed with her.

"Kira..." Sisko urged.

"Um yes. Sorry Captain. What can I do?!" She rushed out of her thoughts.

"I was asking about the update on Bajor in regards to the Resistance groups. Do we know if any of them are siding with the Dominion," Sisko sounded annoyed. "Where is your head at?"

Kira nodded, "Here sir."

"Good. Then keep it that way."

Kira nodded and related what little information she had gathered. It appeared that the provisional government was partially to blame for the current situation, which surprised no one. It also seemed that the current fundamentalist religious institutions were at least partially to blame, which once again surprised no one. Sisko frowned, obviously not pleased at the amount of information. Kira couldn't blame him. She wasn't any closer to discovering how Dukat had been kidnapped in the first place and now there was concern that these same rebel groups might decide to join the dominion. Whose to say that Sisko wouldn't disappear tomorrow. Kira also had a sinking suspicion that Kai Winn had something to do with all this. That power hungry bat would easily side with whoever had the most power. She also wanted to punch that women in the face. Kira frowned while musing, 'What would happen if Dukat meet Kai Winn?' They would probably get along rather nicely, too nicely in Kira's opinion.

By the time supper came around Kira was exhausted. She had spent the whole day focusing extra hard in order to get anything done. She was already auto piloting it to her quarters when she remembered Dukat. She briefly thought about ignoring him, she didn't really feel up to his company. Her emotions were already a wreck and she wasn't any closer to discovering how she really felt. The thought of 20 ships came unbidden to her mind and she winced, perhaps the end will justify the means.

"Now I do feel like a whore..." Kira mumbled to herself, tapping her com badge, "Computer, locate Dukat."

"Dukat is located in Quarks."

"Is he alone?"

"No, one other lifeform is present."

"Who is it?" Kira asked curiously.

"Rita Rider."

Kira frowned, `who the hell would willingly sit with Dukat`, the irony was not lost on her. She casually made her way to Quarks, curious as to what was happening. Entering Quarks she scanned for Dukat and found him sitting on the far side, a drink in his hand, animatedly talking to a young Bajoran woman. She was leaning in, clearly interested in whatever he was talking about. Dukat also leaned forward, his hand clearly resting on top of hers. Kira fumed. Her initial reaction was to go over and yell at him, give him a piece of her mind however, in this circumstance the action would seem unwarranted. She had no reason to even be associated with him as far as everyone was concerned. No... it was best just to ignore him. Obviously he had finally moved on and Kira, although a little put off, was not shocked. She knew what kind of man Dukat was. The only thing that was surprising was how much it actually seemed to hurt.

Rushing to her quarters, Kira was practically gasping for air when she arrived. She clenched her fists, and steeled her heart, unsure if she wanted to scream or cry. 'This is ridiculous,' she thought, 'how could he always work her up like this.' It's not like they had a real relationship, he could talk to whoever he wanted but, did he have to enjoy it so damn much.

It took her a moment to notice a little package sitting on her desk. It was a smallish black box, with a slip of paper on top.

Picking up the slip she read, "To assist in achieving even the smallest meditation moments."

Inside was a small meditation stone. Just large enough to fit in the palm of her hand. On one side there was an indent which she could smoothy run her thumb over, it felt rather soothing. The note had no name attached but she had an idea who it was from. She rubbed the stone, taking solace in the action. She was also rather surprised at Dukat's thoughtfulness. Kira growled and hugged herself as feelings of affection washed over her.

'That's it. I'm going crazy, that is the only explanation, I'm just going crazy,' Kira thought as she sat down on the couch. Kira sighed, closing her eyes, one moment she was angry and the next she was over the moon. She hadn't had this wild of a ride since... well ever. Taking a deep breathe she got up to change into some comfier clothing. Once that had been accomplished she settled in to meditate, Prophets know, she could use it.

Some time later her meditation was broken by the chime of the door.

"Enter!" She called.

She opened her eyes for a moment to see who it was, Dukat stood in the entrance. The light of the outside framed his slim figure in the doorway. She smirked to herself. She hadn't really thought about it but for her meditation she had turned down the lights and turned the temperature up a little. She had unintentionally made Dukat feel quite welcome.

"How lovely," Dukat smiled, his voice like silk, as he entered the room.

"I'd like to meditate if you don't mind," Kira stated calmly, admittedly she was pretty much done but she didn't want to tell Dukat that.

She also wasn't sure if she wanted to see him. The memory of him flirting with that other women still fresh in her mind. She knew she shouldn't have expected any different but she had hoped.

Dukat raised an eye ridge at her and then proceeded to sit down beside her and take up his own meditation stance. Kira closed her eyes and fumed, occasionally sneaking a glance towards Dukat. Dukat appeared to be perfectly at peace, this caused Kira's anger to continue to bubble. The uneasy silence causing it to finally bubble over.

"I stopped by Quarks earlier, looking for you," Kira started.

"Did you not see me? I was there. I expected you to visit me after you finished on the bridge. I had hoped for supper."

"You seemed rather busy..." Kira tried to sound normal but the malice escaped her.

Dukat turned to Kira puzzled.

"Don't play dumb with me!" Kira stood up and began to pace.

Dukat frowned thinking, eventually it dawned on him, "Oh! You must have seen me with that woman."

"That woman!" Kira barked, "She has a name Dukat, or did you not bother to remember it."

Dukat stood up tall, "Is this what this is all about, Rita," He paused, making sure that Kira knew damn well he remembered her name before continuing, "She was interested in my company so we talked for a bit."

Understanding finally dawned in Dukat's eyes and he couldn't help but chuckle, "You`re jealous."

"It's not funny," Kira was barely holding in her anger.

"There seems to have been a misunderstanding. I'm not sure what you thought you saw."

"It looked like you two were getting pretty close," Kira crossed her arms, daring Dukat to say otherwise.

"Well she is an attractive young lady and it's not like we are in a relationship," Dukat challenged.

Kira froze. He had her there. She had been blatantly clear that they were in no circumstances in a relationship. She really had no say in if Dukat was seeing anyone else at all. Yet, she couldn't help but feel betrayed and a little wounded. It seemed like this was a classic case of have her cake and eat it too. Well if he was having such a fun time with this new young Bajoran woman why was he even here in the first place... They stood in silence for a while, Kira attempting to think things through and Dukat waited patiently.

Dukat finally broke the silence, "I informed her I was currently taken."

Kira paused, her snippy retort stuck on her lips, "You said..."

"Yes, I said. You can ask her yourself if you wish."

Kira wondered if he was bluffing, "But you were holding hands."

"I was being the gentleman and letting her down easy. I admit, had we not been in this relationship I would have been more than happy for her affections. Hell, if you had been a different woman I would have her in my bed already."

Kira went to speak but Dukat held his hand up and continued, "I am aware that you have stated we are not in a relationship, but I believe that if I took you at your word I'd probably end up regretting it. I have wanted you for a long time Neryrs, I don't plan on messing this up."

Kira wasn't sure what shocked her more. His confession or the use of her given name. The uneasy silence was broken by the rumbling of Kira`s stomach.

"Perhaps we should eat," Dukat stated.

"We?" Kira asked.

"Well you do owe me a date..."

Kira glanced over at Dukat, he was staring back at her. A small smile playing at his lips. It was the first time she realized how close they were actually standing. She could almost feel his heat radiating off his body.

"You said a few days..." Kira tried weakly.

"And it is still a few days..." Dukat leaned forward as he spoke.

Kira's breath hitched as she felt him drawing near. She could smell his scent and she was immediately returned to that morning. Dukat finished leaning in and planted a kiss against the side of her neck. Kira unintentionally moved her neck to allow for more access. Dukat smiled against her neck, as he moved down towards her shoulder, kissing along the way. His hand came up and a solitary finger began its journey up her thigh. A slight moan escaped her lips. Kira blinked, coming back to the moment, only for her stomach to give out another growl. Dukat chuckled against her shoulder.

"I guess I will have to wait for my dessert," His voice was low and deep.

Kira took her arm and whacked him in the chest.

"You just can't keep your hands off me, can you?" He pressed attempting to lean in for another kiss.

Kira quickly escaped to her bedroom, needing some space. It was all too easy, just too easy. Kissing him, teasing him. She had expected herself to play the part, but now she found herself wishing the part was real. Her emotions were a whirl, she had no idea what she wanted. She felt a lump in her chest. His lines, although cheesy where actually pretty welcome but she had already decided that she couldn't go through with this farce. She couldn't pretend to love the man when she clearly didn't. So why was this game so easy to play?

"We need to talk!" Dukat called out.

Kira once again attempted to push down the feelings that spread through her. A warmth that he was waiting. She felt flattered. No.. no.. this couldn't continue. He was a monster, she couldn't be with someone like that. This had to stop. She would tell him tonight.

She opened the door to her room, about to speak but when she saw him the words died on her lips. He was standing near her alter, patiently waiting, his arms crossed behind his back. His head was tilted in interest and he seemed patient. No longer was he the prefect of Bajor, instead she saw the man who had made love to her that morning.

"Quarks?" Was all she managed to get out.

Dukat nodded and they made their way, stealing a little table up on the second balcony. Kira hopped that they would be a little more hidden up there, given their ability to attract attention.