Disclaimer: Paramount owns everything Trek. I'm just playing with the characters and the story is all mine.

The Jaimie Series - Part 6

A Loss Of Decorum

by Dee Price


Janeway took a sip of her coffee and smiled as she sat in her Ready Room quietly reflecting. Things had been very quiet on Voyager for the past five days. She was still quite unsure about the situation of having Jaimie, not only on ship, but now seen and known by the crew and running OPS! Kathryn felt confident Jaimie wouldn't break her promise, especially since the incident where she had played 'chicken' with a cruiser, yet worried if another dire situation arose would Jaimie be tempted or even just react without thinking. This was really an unusual situation for her: 29th Century knowledge vs. 24th Century living.

One thing stood out . . . the crew really liked Jaimie, and Jaimie herself seemed to get along with everyone. Harry even kidded her that one of these days she just might jump the ship back to the Alpha Quadrant.

Then Kathryn frowned. She had recorded Jaimie on board as a time traveler in her logs, even the fact she was from the 29th Century, but didn't feel this would be frowned on by Starfleet, because Picard had at one time been visited by a time traveler and recorded such in his logs. However, she was concerned about Jaimie running OPS. Because of Harry's situation and following a staff meeting, Jaimie had temporarily been appointed to handle OPS. Starfleet would likely question that!

However she had not mentioned anything as to why Jaimie was on Voyager, nor that she was a descendent of she and Chakotay. Somehow every time she tried, the words just didn't seem right or were questionable, so she had not entered that information. Questionable? She almost laughed at that word. Everything was questionable with a 29th century individual on board!

She shook her head and grumbled to herself about Starfleet Protocols. As she started to lean forward to pick up a Padd she chuckled out loud at that thought. Was even she beginning to feel that Starfleet Protocols here in the Delta Quadrant didn't fully apply? Chakotay had mentioned they needed adapting to their unique situation several times, and Tuvok had also told her numerous crewmembers felt the same way. Even Jaimie had once mentioned that Protocols here in the Delta Quadrant, if not in general, were antiquated.

No - she must maintain Starfleet discipline! The command structure must be maintained. Any 'tweaking' of the rules would lead to a breakdown and everyone feeling 'if they can do it why can't I' mentality.

Having made that internal decision she leaned back in the couch and looked out the view port. But her mind wandered to the one thing she could never get out of her mind. If I maintain strict Starfleet rules and regulations, how and when do Chakotay and I get married? Smiling, she thought of Jaimie's retort the last time she had tried to 'wheedle' this information out of her. "Kathryn," she snorted, "stop wheedling, it will just happen when you least expect it and will be the most natural thing in the world! The only thing I will tell you is that when the time comes you will not question it happening in the least, the Senior Staff, even Tuvok will not question it, in fact no one on the entire ship will question it! Stop thinking about it for gosh sakes. Man, you would drive a peanut nuts!"

"Bridge to Captain Janeway," rang out, breaking into her thoughts.

"Yes Commander?"

"Captain, we are coming up on an M class planet. Just wanted to let you know."

"Thank you, Chakotay. I'll be out in a few minutes."

Three minutes later she strode onto the Bridge, glanced first at the view screen, then Chakotay as he stood to face her. "Any contact or hails yet, Commander?"

"Not as yet, Captain."

"Well, let's hope it's peaceful. I don't feel like a fight today. I've rather enjoyed the peace and quiet we've had of late – even if it does seem boring at times," she said smiling at him.

She glanced up at Jaimie who had her head down studying the panel. Even she had complained about the way things were so quiet of late and made the comment that people needed to laugh more when it was so boring.

"Any ships coming out to greet us, Jaimie?"

Jaimie didn't bother looking up nor did she use proper reporting, just shook her head. "None that I can see. . . . yet."

"Yet, questioned Janeway? "You mean we will have?"

Jaimie frowned as her head came up and she looked over at Kathryn. She had to restrain herself from making a sarcastic comment. "24th Century none that I can see. These sensors have such short range - they are so frustrating!"

"Sorry, Jaimie. Sometimes when I look at you and remember you are 29th Century and know exactly what is going to happen before it does, I just. . . ."

"No problem," said Jaimie with a smile. "Just keep your thoughts 24th Century and we will be fine."

A muffled snicker from Tom caught Janeway's ear. "Yes, Tom, do you have something to say?"

"Not really, Captain. It's just that I have had the same thoughts when I look at Jaimie. Maybe she should wear a mask," he said looking over at Jamie with a smile.

Jaimie burst out laughing. "No Tom, you should wear a mask, but on the back of your head, then I could have something to laugh at when it's quiet here. Or better yet - to shoot spitballs at," then turning to look at Tuvok she added, "Of course, our Vulcan would frown at that."

Janeway glanced down at Chakotay who was trying to act busy on his controls, but when he looked up she saw a distinct twinkle in his eyes and had to admit she had a hard time keeping a straight face herself. Jaimie seemed to have a manner that kept things loose on the bridge, but then the crew, now aware of her 29th century status almost seemed in awe of her. However, even with her sense of humor and aside remarks, Jaimie never seemed to lose awareness of her panel.

This thought was suddenly borne out when Jaimie, even while still laughing, called out, "Sensors now show three ships approaching."

Chakotay looked back at her. "Shields? Armed?"

"No, Chakotay, looks like an inquiry." Then looking at Janeway, "They are hailing us."

"On screen. Let's see what they have to say."

An alien with a rather reptilian face appeared. "I am Commander Scorpio and this is Lt. Taurus of the planet Zodiac. Who might you be?"

Janeway could almost hear the necks pop as everyone's head on the Bridge snapped up at that greeting.

"I am Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Federation Starship Voyager. We are from the planet Earth."

A blank stare, then "Earth? I have not heard of such a planet."

"It is in the Alpha Quadrant. We are 45 years from home."

"Alpha Quadrant? 45 years? Does your species always travel so far? You will all be dead before you get back," he exclaimed.

"No we don't always travel this far from home, Captain Scorpio. We were actually brought to this quadrant by the Caretaker, but that is a long story that we don't need to get into. In reality, however, we are explorers, but a peaceful race and are just passing through this section of space."

"If you are in need of repairs or supplies, perhaps I should suggest the next system, as our planet is rather desolate and suitable for only our species, Captain. But if you wish to stop you certainly may do so."

"We were planning on giving the crew some R & R, but perhaps we will keep going to the next system as you suggest, Captain Scorpio. Thank you for you kindness and information."

"You are welcome Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Starship Voyager from the planet Earth in the Alpha Quadrant now exploring in the Delta Quadrant," and his screen went black.

"Well that about summed it up," quipped Jaimie. Even as they laughed at this comment the entire crew on the Bridge turned as one to look at Jaimie and waited expectantly. Her head was still down as she worked her panel and soon reported all three ships were turning back. Hearing no response, she looked up and seeing everyone staring at her said, "What?" Still not getting any response, she threw her hands up in the air and said again, "What! I didn't do anything."

Tom could not contain himself any longer and almost exploded with "Well don't you find their names strange? They are astrological names!"

"To each his own, Tom, and what's so strange about astrological names? We are out in a big wide Galaxy. Granted," she said as she could no longer contain an amused smile, "It could get a little confusing for some mother to call for Aries and half the city starts moving towards her!"

"Suffice it to say," added Tuvok, "There would not be much variety of names."

Everyone burst out in loud laughter and Chakotay said, "Tuvok, you made a joke!"

"I do not believe I said anything funny, Commander. I was merely pointing out there are only twelve signs in the zodiac, leading therefore to names being repeated continually, unless of course there are not many inhabitants. I will check on this, Captain."

Now everyone, including the Captain, was laughing hysterically.

"Now if Tuvok would only laugh it would be complete," said Jaimie with a big grin as she watched him.

"There isn't any need to check, Tuvok," said Janeway getting her breath. "Now let's settle down everyone, let's have some Bridge decorum please. And Tom, Warp 6 for the next planet."

"It will probably be Zeus or Aphrodite," muttered Jaimie, causing everyone to burst out laughing all over again.

* * *

Later that evening Kathryn walked into the Mess Hall and spotting Chakotay and Jaimie at a table headed over to join them.

"Good evening you two, anything good for supper?"

Jaimie frowned but Chakotay said, "Nothing really special, but it was palatable."

"How can you say that, Chakotay," countered Jaimie. "It was really flat - no taste at all!"

"Well I told you not to order the beans. They didn't look like anything I've ever seen before."

"You haven't see anything in this quadrant before! What difference does that make?" Jaimie said with a laugh.

Kathryn, sitting there listening to the give and take, smiled. Jaimie with her quick wit and sense of humor had certainly livened up the ship. Almost too much if what happened on the Bridge this morning was an indication. A talk with Jaimie was called for.

"Jaimie, about what happened this morning . . ."

"Oh now, Kathryn, don't go bawling me out. I didn't make up those names and I certainly didn't start that little repartee. Paris baited me! Besides, what harm did it do? The crew needs to laugh now and then considering the predicament you're in."

"I understand that Jaimie, but everyone got a little carried away today. The attitude was a little too relaxed, so I am asking you to tone down the remarks."

Jaimie looked at Chakotay who was sitting very quiet and somber. Deciding she best not involve him and that she probably did push it a little this morning with her asides, she looked back to Kathryn and nodded her head.

"Okey dokey, I'll behave, but I still say I didn't start it."

"Are you going to stamp your foot too?" asked Kathryn with a small laugh. Then turning serious again she continued, "Really, Jaimie, it's not necessarily your humor, it's who you are and where you're from. Everyone takes everything you say as a double meaning. They look at you and wonder if you are letting them in on 29th Century information every time you open your mouth. I'm sure you must have felt this, too."

"Yeah, I guess." She tapped her fingers on her coffee cup then looked at Kathryn. Slowly a smile creased her face. "But come on! Even you have to admit that was weird this morning and I'm willing to bet even Tuvok, although he would deny it, got some enjoyment out of it. That's if a Vulcan can enjoy anything"

Chakotay and Kathryn both grinned. Then Chakotay said, "Jaimie, if I were a betting man I'd say you are on a crusade to get Tuvok to laugh."

Jaimie smirked. "Ah Chakotay, you are beginning to know me too well, but the day I get Tuvok to laugh I'm heading home."

"You miss home don't you Jaimie?" asked Kathryn somberly.

"Sure, I miss the kids and grandkids, even Gates, but I don't miss the job like I thought I would. I haven't been this relaxed for years, just failed to realize what it was taking out of me. Now I laugh and kid like I did when I was younger."

Just then Tom, B'Elanna and Harry walked into the room. Seeing the Captain's table they slowly headed in that direction, giving Harry all the time he needed by stopping periodically to greet someone. When they reached the table Chakotay stood and offered Harry his seat. Although embarrassed Harry was grateful and sat down slowly.

In slow, halting words, he said, "Hope we haven't interrupted anything"

"Not all Harry. You are welcome to sit with us," said Janeway. "How are things coming with your rehab?"

"Fair I guess. The Doc says my speech is improving a lot, but I can't see any improvement in my hands or legs. Especially the hands." He then looked down at the table.

Kathryn reached out and placed her hand on Harry's arm. "It' just going to take time, Harry."

Harry's head came up and he looked around the table until he saw Jamie. Looking her straight in the eye he asked, "I don't suppose you can tell me if I improve or not."

"Sorry." Then Jaimie leaned towards him. "But don't give up, you never know, maybe a planet down the line will have the technology to repair the hemisphere in your brain that controls your hands and legs."

As the words sank in, Harry broke into a big smile. "Really? Thanks Jaimie, that's great news!"

Immediately Jaimie said sharply, "Now Harry that doesn't mean anything special. What I'm telling you is don't give up with your rehab. Healing also has to come from within so keep up your spirit."

"I know but that makes me feel so much better that down the line some planet can help me."

Jaimie withheld a sigh and immediately stood and excused herself. Moments later Chakotay caught up with her in the corridor and asked, "Is that true, Jaimie? Some alien technology can help Harry?"

Jaimie gave an exasperated look as she stopped and faced Chakotay. "Not you too! Doesn't anyone listen on this ship? All I said was 'Maybe a planet down the line'."

"I guess it's because you already know what's going to happen and words are taken out of context. Sorry Jamie."

"Oh, it's okay Chakotay," she said softly. "I understand. Every time anyone talks to me I know they are interpreting the words 29th Century and not once have I meant anything, I have been very careful and specific in what I say." Giving a big sigh she continued, "That part of being on Voyager is very frustrating."

Chakotay patted her on the shoulder. "In time, if you remain here, everyone will get used to you and start thinking in 24th Century terms."

Jaimie responded with a laugh. "I hope so young man, I certainly hope so. Else I'm going to have to whack someone upside the head." They both started laughing as they entered the turbolift.

* * *

Voyager dove straight down to avoid hitting the Cruiser but soon the vibration and stress started to collapse bulkheads. As Voyager started to pull up and roll over a violent shudder went through the whole ship and in a brilliant flash exploded in a trillion pieces.

"No, Tom, no! You are too damn slow!" exclaimed a frustrated Jaimie. "And you are also not getting the maneuver right. You are extending the dive too long."

"Damn," exploded Tom. "Let's do it again."

"No! You just can't do it. Besides, we'll both get in trouble with Janeway if she finds out we're doing this."

"Once more, Jaimie, please. You did it in that battle and I've just got to learn this. Maybe the program isn't set up the way you did the maneuver."

"Oh right, as if I don't know my own maneuver," she responded sarcastically. You're grasping at straws Paris! One more time then I'm leaving."

"Ok, start the program," said Tom excitedly as he sat flexing his fingers.

Voyager headed for the Cruiser, then dove straight down. Tom endeavored to remember the sequence of events as he tried to make his fingers fly over the panel. The results turned out the same as Voyager blew up.

Jaime stared at him with her arms crossed over her chest. Finally, shaking her head in disgust she sighed and turned to leave.

"Wait Jaimie! Help me - what should I do?"

"Study Voyager," she called out as she neared the door. "Every nut, bolt, nook and cranny" and she walked out.

After leaving the Holodeck, Jaimie decided to see how things were on the Gamma shift and after entering the turbolift said "Bridge." Lifting her tunic she set her belt to cloak and once near the Bridge she would transport herself in and observe. Kathryn knew she still had the belt but didn't know she wore it at all times. Habits die hard she mused to herself.

As the turbo stopped, she started to exit and almost bumped into B'Elanna. "Hi Jaimie, thought you were on the Holodeck with Tom."

"Tom? No why do you say that?" she asked nervously. Then to herself, Damn, I suppose Tom has told everyone he is trying to learn that maneuver. Won't be long before Kathryn hears about it.

"He said something about starting up Chez Sandrine's for a game of pool. Wanted to challenge your 29th Century skill against his 24th", she said with a grin. "But between you and me I think he's lucky he didn't find you. You would probably beat him quite badly. Bet he wouldn't score a single point."

Jaimie laughed. "Well we just might have to do that sometime. Tell him I accept if you find him," she said and then headed for the Bridge.

* * *

Kathryn grumped to herself she would have to talk to whomever was in charge here in the Cargo Bay. She didn't understand the storage system and had not only failed to find her box of personal belongings, but had ended up getting quite dirty trying to manhandle one box out of the way.

"You didn't even get that dirty working in the garden at New Earth," said a voice behind her.

Kathryn chuckled and without even turning around quipped, "Oh be quiet Chakotay."

"Anything I can help you with, Kathryn?" he asked as he came up beside her.

"No I've about given up. What can I do for you? Any special reason you looked me up down here?" she asked as she turned and sat on a nearby box.

Chakotay sat down opposite her and smiled.

Damn him, thought Kathryn, why does he have the most heart-warming smile in the Galaxy?

"You look beautiful all mucked up Kathryn," he said as his smile deepened.

"Enough of that Commander. What is it?" she said with a laugh.

"Just thought you would be interested in the latest scuttlebutt."

"Is it juicy gossip or a rumor?" she asked with an impish smile.

"From what I have heard, Tom has finally convinced Jaimie to teach him The Dive."

At first Kathryn looked horrified, then she stood and said, "Of course! Tom is a pilot and to see somebody do something with Voyager that he can't, well . . ." They both stepped down to the deck and Kathryn looked at him. "Well I suppose it's all right as long as he keeps it on the Holodeck. I sure don't want him to try it with the real thing, do you?"

Chakotay laughed. "Not from what I've heard. Voyager has blown up every time and Jaimie finally walked out in disgust."

Kathryn joined Chakotay in laughing as she exclaimed "Good." Then she grimaced. "Exactly my point though. Well I'm through here, what say we have a cup of tea?"

Chakotay looked at her for a moment, his eyes taking on a look of deep feeling as he reached out and touched her cheek with the back of his fingers. Kathryn's heart rate immediately increased and then suddenly Chakotay blinked, shook his head and as he jerked his hand back said, "Sorry, Kathryn, but you just look so beautiful, even more so with those dirt smudges on your face."

Kathryn felt her cheeks start to get hot, then said in a hushed tone, "I think we better be going." Suddenly looking down at her clothes she exclaimed, "I can't go into the Mess Hall looking like this, Chakotay!"

"Why not? You're not in uniform and besides the crew will know their Captain is not afraid of getting dirty." Then he started chuckling. "But I'm sure they will wonder where you got so dirty. I dare you to go like that."

She slapped at his arm and with a laugh said, "You know I'm not one to ignore a dare! I'll duck into Neelix' kitchen, he probably has a wet rag I can use."

As Kathryn and Chakotay entered the Mess Hall Kathryn made a beeline for the counter, but not before several crewmen had seen her. As she stepped behind and took the rag Neelix offered, she first washed her face then wiped at the dirt on her clothes. Chakotay looked around and saw that most faces were now turned the Captain's way and had smiles on their faces. He grinned in delight.

Kathryn soon stepped out from behind the counter drying her hands and said, "There, that looks a little better. Get the tea Chakotay, and I'll find us a table." As she walked off wiping at her clothes he was quick to note she kept her head down, not facing any inquisitive stares.

Chakotay soon joined her at the table and as they sat quietly enjoying the moment, Kathryn suddenly smiled. "I won your dare Chakotay, what do I get?"

"It was a dare Kathryn, not a bet. But if you want something I'm sure I can . . ."

"Never mind" she said cutting off his sentence. Then she noticed Tom and B'Elanna, nudged Chakotay, picked up her tea and headed for their table. Chakotay followed, all the while thinking to himself that Tom was going to get it now.

"Evening, Tom, B'Elanna. Mind if we join you for a few minutes?"

"Not at all, Captain, Commander, take a seat," said B'Elanna even as she glanced at Tom.

Kathryn sat and turned her full attention on Lt. Paris. Tom looked at her nervously, and then glanced at B'Elanna who sat with an amused look on her face. Turning to Chakotay, Tom had an almost helpless, pleading look, but Chakotay gave no indication of what the Captain was thinking. Finally Tom looked at Janeway who was still staring full bore into his eyes.

Silence followed for a few moments then Kathryn asked, "Blown up any ships lately, Mr. Paris?"

Tom placed both hands on his face. "Oh God, why can't I keep my mouth shut?"

"I've wondered that for a long time, Tom," said B'Elanna with a grin.

Then Tom looking at Janeway said, "I'm sorry Captain, it's just . . ."

"Just drop the program, Tom," interrupted Janeway. "Understood?"

"Yes ma'am," he said sheepishly. "But please don't blame Jaimie, it was all my idea."

"She's old enough to know better, especially considering her situation. I do plan on talking to her, however."

"There is no need for that, Captain," Tom pleaded. "Actually she gave up on me and walked out awhile ago and I haven't seen her since."

"I saw her awhile ago," said B'Elanna, "she was heading for the Bridge."

"The Bridge!" exclaimed Janeway, "what on earth is she doing there? She isn't on that shift."

B'Elanna shrugged her shoulders. "I have no idea Captain."

Kathryn looked questioningly at Chakotay, who responded with an 'I don't know either' expression. At that moment Jaimie walked in and over to Neelix.

"Hi Neelix, have any of that Leola Root Stew?"

Neelix turned excitedly with a big smile as he said, "Yes I certainly do, Jaimie!"

"Well throw it out because I don't want any," she said with a laugh. "How about a cup of Java?"

"Java? I'm afraid I don't understand," said Neelix with a big frown.

"Coffee, Neelix."

"Is that what they call it?" he said as he poured her a cup.

"A slang expression I believe. Or it could be the bean or a country that grew it, I have no idea."

"Oh don't give me that, you know most everything."

"Yeah right," she said sarcastically. "Well anyway it's something for you to study then," and she turned and surveyed the room. Spotting Chakotay, Kathryn and the others she headed that way. "Might as well face the music. Tom has probably blabbed everything," she muttered to herself.

"Evenin' all. Room for one more?"

Chakotay immediately grabbed a chair from the next table and put it beside him. Jaimie smiled at him and as she sat leaned into his ear and whispered, "Trying to protect me, Chakotay?"

Looking at Tom she asked, "So am I in the doghouse, restricted to quarters," and then looking at Kathryn who was looking at her, "or what?"

"None of the above, Jaimie, as long as it doesn't continue. You really should know better," Janeway added with a smile.

Turning to look at Tom, who now had a red tinge to his face, Jaimie smirked. "I tried to tell you we would get in trouble, but would you listen to me? Noooooo, then to top it off you have to go blab to everybody. I'm curious. Have you ever kept a secret, Tom?"

"Well . . . I . . . uhm . . . ."

"Just answer the question, Thomas," said Jaimie with her eyes boring right through him.

"Aw come on Jaimie, you are supposed to be on my side."

"Your side? Your side? I think not. First we do something we shouldn't and during which you prove conclusively that you cannot do, then you blab about your failure, which gets back to Janeway and you get bawled out, I get bawled out and almost restricted, and I'm supposed to be on your side? Just where are you from anyway?"

"Federation Penal Settlement in New Zealand" smiled Tom.

Jaimie and the rest burst out laughing. "Touché, Tom, good one. Nice to see you being funny instead of flip."

"What were you doing on the Bridge, Jaime?" asked Kathryn.

"Oh, we have another blabbermouth," said Jaimie as she looked at B'Elanna. "Is that all everyone on this ship does, is tell on one another?"

Everyone burst out in loud laughter causing others in the room to glance at their table. "I think we're causing a disturbance," said Kathryn as she wiped at her eyes.

Jaimie was on a roll now and not about to stop. She hadn't done this since leaving her century and was finding it most exhilarating. "Disturbance? Really now, is that what you call it? I think this ship is one big tattletale, and I simply cannot let myself be associated with rabble of this kind. What did I ever do to deserve this?" Jaimie moaned.

"Voluntarily asked to join us rabble," interjected B'Elanna with a laugh.

"That's it!" exclaimed Jaimie standing. "You've gone from tattling to insulting. I'm going to my room!"

"And don't forget to stand in the corner," called out Chakotay as Jaimie started for the door.

By now everyone in the Mess Hall had tuned in to their table and all broke into smiles and muted laughter at Chakotay's remark.

Jamie stopped, placed her hands on her hips as she turned to face her table companions, and said, "Well I never!"

"At least not for a while," called out Janeway as she excitedly joined in this little repartee. At this remark the entire room exploded in laughter.

Jaimie grinned, wagged a finger at Kathryn and left the room.

As that happened, Kathryn realized what she had said, flushed deep red and putting her head down on the table groaned, "I can't believe I said that! That woman is corrupting us all."

Tom, B'Elanna and Chakotay's riotous laughter increased with this remark, until finally Chakotay managed to say, "She certainly has gotten the ship's personnel into a much happier mood."

Tom and B'Elanna both nodded in agreement. "Yeah it has been just great with her on the ship," said B'Elanna. "Makes me forget we are stranded so far from Earth."

"I agree," added Tom looking at Janeway who was now recovered enough to sit up straight, but still obviously chagrined at her flip remark "And you know, Captain," he continued, "I heard Tuvok mention this morning that efficiency has gone up dramatically".

"Well you know the old saying," said Kathryn. "A happy ship is an efficient ship. Hardly anyone has mentioned home all week. I was walking through the Cargo Bay earlier this evening and heard two crewmen singing in harmony and I certainly haven't heard that before."

"What the singing or the harmony?" asked Chakotay trying to maintain a straight face.

Everyone started giggling again, to which Kathryn rose and said, "Not you, too, Chakotay. Don't get us started again. All this frivolity is too much. I think I am going to retire for the evening."

"Me, Too, Kathryn," said Chakotay quickly standing. "I'll walk you to your quarters. Goodnight everyone."

"Goodnight sirs, see you tomorrow," came the reply from the still grinning Tom and B'Elanna.

* * *

Jaimie walked into her quarters. What a fun day this had been, the repartee on the Bridge this morning, the joking now at the table. . . . it felt great to see everybody in such a light-hearted mood. That would change soon enough, she mused, but for now let them have their fun.

Chakotay had been right at one point today though, one of these days she would make Tuvok laugh. That was her goal, and then she wondered what he would have done tonight at that table. Probably frowned for the most part, especially at Kathryn for her participation and remarks. "Need I remind you that your behavior is not becoming of a Starfleet Captain," she said trying to imitate Tuvok's voice.

She thought for a moment of her family and then smiled. Even Gates would have laughed today. She missed her 'fights' with him, but today's little battle of words with Tom and the others helped.

Walking over to her nightstand she opened the bottom drawer and slowly lifted out various tools and electronic parts. "About time to see if I can build this," she said half aloud.

Meanwhile Kathryn and Chakotay arrived at Kathryn's quarters. "Thank you, Chakotay. It was a fun evening . . . day actually, looking back to this morning on the Bridge."

"Yes, I haven't seen the crew enjoy themselves this much since I joined Voyager."

"Jaimie has certainly brought a change but it concerns me Chakotay. Today might have been just an exception, but I worry that we will be relaxed sometime and someone will slip through and attack us. Had Tuvok been there tonight his frown would have looked like the Grand Canyon!"

"I hardly think you need worry yourself about that, Kathryn. Jaimie may be making us laugh with her so-called 'lack of respect for protocol or decorum', but her brain is on full alert. She is aware at all times of what is going on. I can see it in her eyes behind the laughter."

Kathryn nodded as she looked into Chakotay's soft brown eyes. "I think you're probably right," she muttered absently. Kathryn was losing herself in those eyes, those dimples, those lips . . . those were the most sensual lips she had ever seen in her life. What would they feel like . . . ?

"Kathryn - Kathryn?"

Suddenly she realized Chakotay was calling her name. Blinking she said, "Yes Chakotay, you were saying?"

"I was just saying your name, you looked like you weren't here."

She smiled coyly, "Oh I was here all right . . . well goodnight, see you in the morning."

"Breakfast? 0700 hours?"

"Sounds good" and she turned and punched in her code. As her door slid open she felt his hand on the small of her back and an involuntary shiver shot through her body. Quickly stepping into her room before he could say anymore, she turned as it started to close, smiled and said "Goodnight, see you in the morning."

"Goodnight Kathryn," and as the doors firmly closed he added in a whisper, "my love."

* * *

In the Mess Hall Tom and B'Elanna decided to call it a night. As they walked into the corridor Tom said, "I have never seen the Captain so happy and relaxed."

"I know," added B'Elanna, "She's a whole different person. The Captain of old would never have joined in joking like she did tonight."

"Agreed," said Tom, "but you know, I think there is some kind of bond between Jaimie and the Captain and Commander."

"Well she took them to the 29th Century and has now joined Voyager."

"No," said Tom, "that isn't it."

B'Elanna looked at his thoughtful countenance. "What do you mean then? They do seem to have a chemistry."

"I'm not sure, it's just something I feel. Well," he said as he bent down and lightly kissed her, "I'll figure it out - but there is something" He momentarily stared into space then smiled as he started for his quarters, "Goodnight."

"Goodnight Tom" said B'Elanna with a puzzled look in her eyes. She stood and watched him for a few seconds then turned to enter her room. "Whatever it is, your devious mind will figure it out Tom, that's for sure."

FINIS

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