Disclaimer: I don't own Star Trek Voyager or its characters, Paramount does!

Author's Note: The story's written to hopefully keep the identity of "him" ambiguous, so feel free to fill in whoever you want for Kathryn's special someone! :)

Whispers, Echoes, and Dreams

Peppermint, sugar cookies, and rich hot chocolate are in abundance tonight, and the peals of laughter that fill the house overlay soft music and the gentle crackling of the fireplace. Candles and lower lighting set a cozy ambience, wreaths adorn the doors, and strands of holly and ivy intertwine with pinecones, small poinsettias, and crystal trees on the tables. Silver and gold highlights glitter above the fireplace in red and green garlands. A large tree sits grandly in the corner by the window. Happy people who had been chatting over sweets and drinks after dinner were now starting to gravitate to the center of the cleared living room to dance. She leans quietly against the curve of the wooden stairway railing and smiles in contentment. All is as it should be.

"May I have this dance?"

She smirks at his formal address. Even after thirty-seven years of marriage, he is as gallant as ever towards her. He has really outdone himself tonight, looking sharp in his tuxedo and extending his hand gracefully to invite her to the dance floor.

"It'd be my pleasure," she answers, placing her small hand softly into his larger one. Though coarser than her own, it is gentle. His eyes are kind and warm, and she drinks in his presence. The dance is short and uncomplicated. Easy steps. A few breathtaking twirls, always with the intent of coming even closer together again. They finish; he envelops her in an embrace, and she rests her head against his chest. She never wants to let him go, but she must.

Because it is, and will always be, just a dream.