HONORABLE MENTION - BEST GARAK/BASHIR

Title: The Morning After
Author: T'Lin
Series: DS9
Codes: G/B
Rating: PG-13
Parts: 1/1
Summary: This is a 169-er ... an interlude between "Dead of Night" and "In the Light of Day". Originally posted in the Sept./Oct. issue of STRANGE FITS OF PASSION.

WARNING: This story is about the relationship between two men. Although it does not contain explicit sex, it does imply that it happened ... if this bothers you, you're in the wrong place.

I would like to thank Olivia Montieth for allowing me to include her drawing with my story. This was not a conscience collaboration ... merely a coincidence that both my story and her drawing were in the same issue of SFOP. I wonder if we could do as well if we tried ;-)

Am I dreaming? Is this real?

For years, I have longed for this moment... to awaken with you in my arms. The scent of your hair, the warmth of your body, the silky texture of your skin and the hardness of your flesh... how I've dreamed of experiencing them all! Oh, how sweet it is to feel your head resting on my shoulder, your arm across my chest, and our legs tangled together!

I am overwhelmed!

When I first approached you this evening, it was to say good-bye... I couldn't live another day in your presence and not be with you. Never, in my wildest dreams, did I anticipate this. To think you shared my hopes and dreams, I still cannot believe it is true!

Now, in the early morning, I watch you sleep... you smile, as I kiss you awake.

"Good morning, my dear Doctor... did you sleep well?"

"Yes, my love.... and you?"

"Never better"

"I dreamt... it wasn't a dream, was it?"

"No"

THE END