Story #11 – VALENTINE

by Shalee

 

 

Day 201 – Continued...

 

Damn, it was cold, thought Hjalmer 'Hondo' Swedlund as he trudged through the darkness on his rounds. It was beyond him as to why, Tuvok still insisted on a security perimeter for the colony. They were the only ones on the planet, weren't they? Maybe that was the crux; what if they weren't alone? Hondo sighed as he stuffed his hands deeper into the pockets of his coat, cussing the fact that he had left his gloves in his shelter, again.

 

Nearing the central building of New Hope, Hondo came upon an uncommon site – Kathryn Janeway and Chakotay dancing to music, obviously of their own making. The big Swede smiled to himself: It's about damn time. Not wanting to interrupt Hondo attempted to skirt by the duo but fate was not on his side. A snap of a twig underfoot belayed his presence.

 

"Hello, Hondo," Kathryn called out to him, her tone sounding wry and a bit exasperated as she put a little distance between Chakotay and herself.

 

"Hey, Kit; sorry about this."

 

"It's okay, we should probably be taking this inside anyway," Kathryn answered as she reached out and patted his arm.

 

"Now hold it a minute," Chakotay ventured as something suddenly occurred to him. "You two act is if you're old friends."

 

Kathryn and Hondo exchanged a grin.

 

"I guess in a way we are." Hondo volunteered slyly.

 

Chakotay watched the two with growing curiosity, then gave in, "Okay, I'll be bite; how do the very Starfleet captain and ex-Maquis crewman know each other?"

 

"Because the ex-Maquis is also an ex-ranger, Starfleet that is."

 

"And… "  Chakotay prompted.

 

"And he was Justin's best friend," Kathryn supplied quietly.

 

"It's through Justin Tighe that I meet Kit. I just wish I'd been there for her when… "

 

"Shhh… no, Hondo; I've told you before… there's nothing you could have done. Fate had other plans. I have to believe that…  and so do you."

 

"Yeah, I know. Look, it's freezing and I know I'm interrupting here. I'm gonna finish my rounds. See ya, later. Kit. Chakotay." The big Swede excused himself hurriedly.

 

"Night, Hondo," Chakotay answered to air. He turned and looked at Kathryn, noting her downcast face he took her by the arm and escorted her home.

 

Once inside the shelter, Chakotay turned up the environmental controls and helped Kathryn off with her coat. After they'd made themselves comfortable on the small sofa in one corner of the shelter, Chakotay asked the question that had been nagging at him.

 

"So… tell me about Hondo."

 

Kathryn eyed him warily. "You first. I never did find out how he ended up in the Maquis.”

 

"It's not a happy story, Kathryn," Chakotay warned her.

 

Kathryn nodded, "It never is. Tell me… please."

 

"Okay. Well, the first time I laid eyes on Hondo Swedlund, he was sitting in front of the ruins on his house with his wife cradled in his arms."

 

"On Dorvan 5?"

 

"Yes,"

 

"My god; I had no idea."

 

"It took a little talking,  but finally I got him to let her go. We buried her in the house." Chakotay paused drawing a deep brush as he looked at Kathryn cautiously. "It wasn't until some time later that he told me she had been pregnant."

 

"Oh, no… " Kathryn murmured, a hand going to her mouth as she shook her head.  "Damn it; it's not fair."

 

"War and life rarely are; you know that just as I do."

 

"Yes," Kathryn whispered.

 

"Why didn't you tell me you'd known Hondo from the past?"

 

Kathryn shrugged, "I don't know I guess the occasion never came up. You really didn't know he'd been a Ranger?"

 

"No; we didn't talk much about where he had been before the Maquis. Only our reasons for joining. That's something he and I had in common… the Cardassians destroyed our families and homes."

 

"And Starfleet didn't matter anymore. They had slept with the enemy so to speak," Kathryn ventured solemnly.

 

"That's about right."

 

"It's hard to believe we're talking about the same person. The Hondo I knew lived and breathed the Rangers. He and Justin never seemed to tire of expounding the virtues of it," Kathryn provided as she unconsciously played with the end of her braid.

 

Chakotay studied her profile for a moment then held out his arms. Without a word, the former captain of Voyager moved into the embrace of her first officer. When she was settled, she continued her story. "I always felt as though I was a bit of a third wheel when Justin and Hondo were together. They had had so many adventures, and I was a newly promoted Lieutenant at twenty-five, with fewer than half a dozen missions under my belt."

 

As she talked, Chakotay gently stoked her hair; after a while, he undid her braid and started combing red-brown tresses with his fingers. Kathryn seemingly completely comfortable with the situation didn't even notice their increasing closeness.

 

"I think it was Hondo who finally talked Justin into asking me to marry him."  Kathryn took a deep breath and burrowed deeper into Chakotay's arms, "The night before the Terra Nova crash, Hondo had dinner with us. Or, rather… he brought dinner. Take out, of course. We had a wonderful evening and when it came time to part, Hondo kissed me on the cheek, shook Justin's hand and promised to always be there for us. I never saw him again until I saw his name on your crew list."

 

"He never came to see you, after Justin was killed?"

 

"No, I think he was probably as devastated as I was. Maybe, that's why he left the Rangers and moved to Dorvan; I really don't know. And we haven't talked much since he's been on Voyager. Perhaps I should have played the concerned captain and sought him out. There are so many of the crew that I've had little if any contact with. And, of course, my ego tells me he could have come to me. I mean, I still feel like we're friends." Kathryn closed her eyes and bowed her head. "I guess it's something we need to work on," she murmured against Chakotay's neck.

 

"Kathryn… " Chakotay whispered. He sensed she was getting sleepy but there was something else he needed to say.

 

"Hmmm… " she answered vaguely.

 

"Kathryn, please… "

 

The woman in his arms sat up at the tone in his voice.  "What is it, Chakotay?"

 

"I just wanted to tell you… I'm sorry." He cupped her face in his large hands. "I shouldn't have scolded you. It's in your nature to care about those around you, especially with Naomi and everyone else; we've been through so much together. However, you have to start thinking about yourself a little; you're not 'wonder woman'."

 

Kathryn shook her head slightly, turning her face to kiss his palm. Taking his hands into her own, she spoke softly and carefully.

 

"I know, you were right. I think I've just been using everyone… and everything… as an excuse to prolong the inevitable. I am deeply in love with you, Chakotay, and that scares the hell out of me. I’m trying very hard to not to run away every time we get close."

 

"You mean… like we are now?" Chakotay asked as he indicated their position on the sofa. Both were lying full length, with Kathryn half on top of him, legs tangled together rather intimately.

 

"Yes… " Kathryn murmured as she kissed him lightly and slid her hands along his arms up to encircle his neck.

 

"Are you still scared that I'll disappear?"

 

"Yes, but it's getting better."

 

"Good. Because everyday, I'm to make sure you know that I'm here. I'll try not to let you get hurt again; I promise."

 

"I believe you." Kathryn punctuated her words by a kiss, one that deepened quickly. The situation intensified as questing hands sought to find bare skin. Chakotay dragged his lips from hers as air became a priority. Kathryn pulled back to shift her position a little, only to find herself without solid ground beneath her.

 

Chakotay peered over the edge of the sofa an almost full thirty seconds after his fanatic attempt to stop her fall. He gazed down in the woman, who lay breathing heavily flat on her back.

 

"You, okay?"

 

"Yes… " Kathryn muttered as she pushed her hair off her face and met his eyes. "Do you think this is a omen?"

 

"Hardly," he laughed, helping her up onto her feet.

 

Kathryn looked at him for a moment, thoughtful as an idea came to her. She indicated that he should stay put as she rose and headed for the alcove that held the shelter's small bathroom. Five minutes later, she reappeared, having changing into a sleeping tunic and carrying a hair brush. She walked up to Chakotay and held out her hand. Mystified he took it and allowed himself to be led to her sleeping area. Stopping next to the bed, Kathryn turned and looked up at the man she loved.

 

"Chakotay, you would stay with me tonight and just hold me?"

 

"Of course, but… "

 

"Ssshhh; I just realized a few minutes ago that you were right. I haven't been taking care of myself. I have the right to indulge myself once and a while, right?" Chakotay nodded still a little confused. "Well, tonight, I'd like you to do something for me. It's been a fantasy of mine, since I was a young girl full of romantic dreams. Would you… " the words stuck, she couldn't get them out.

 

"Would I do what, Kathryn? You know I would do anything for you."

 

Kathryn smiled shyly and held out the brush to him, "Would you brush my hair and hold me until I fall asleep? Please… "

 

"Gods, Kathryn… " Chakotay murmured in awe as he swept her into his arms. She encircled his waist with her arms and hung on for dear life, her face buried against his chest. "Such a small request and I'm overwhelmed by it. Yes, of course, I'll do whatever your want; I’ll be whomever…"

 

"Just be you, Chakotay," she answered as she maneuvered them down onto the bed.

 

Chakotay slid back to rest his back against the wall, as Kathryn crawled to sit between his thighs. He took the brush from her and began with her hair. He drew the brush downward in gentle strokes and followed by a smoothing hand.

 

"One day very soon, we will have our time together. A getaway, well planned and uninterrupted, I promise."

 

"I'll hold you to that, love," Chakotay whispered in her ear, his warm breath stirring the tiny wisps of auburn along her hairline. A soft sigh slipped past Kathryn's lips as she relaxed against his chest. Laying aside the brush, he carefully rearranged their position until they lay spooned together. Kathryn's breathing soon took on the gentle cadence of sleep. As slumber started to consume him as well, Chakotay had the beginnings of a plan for the perfect getaway.

 

~*~

 

Day 202

 

Morning dawned on New Hope with the promise of more snow. The inhabitants of the only Federation colony in the Delta Quadrant arose slowly, some more so than others.

It was mid-morning when Harry Kim wandered through the array of shelters, whistling softly to himself in the brisk cold of the morning. He halted in mid-purse, his jaw hanging slack as at what he saw in the doorway of a certain captain's shelter. Back-pedaling frantically, he ran right into Tom Paris.

 

"Whoa, what's up, Harry?"

 

Kim just pointed. Paris noted the direction he indicated and smiled, bodily turning the younger man in another direction. "Come'on; let's leave the lovebirds alone," he said, steering his friend toward the central building.

 

"I was supposed to meet Chakotay early this morning to go over plans for something he wants build," Harry said as they walked.

 

"Really; any idea what?"

 

"No, he said he'd tell me when we met… though he mentioned needing a tripolymer."

 

"Hmmm, sounds like he's up to something," Paris murmured.

 

"You think it has something to do with Kathryn and him?" Kim asked.

 

"Without a doubt. Especially after what we just saw."

 

"I hope he takes good care for her."

 

"Yeah, me too, Harry. She deserves good things to happen; actually, they both do."

 

Kim just nodded in agreement.

 

~*~

 

The moment he awoke, Chakotay knew it was well past dawn. He also noted he was alone. Rolling over onto his back, Chakotay stretched lazily as he listened for signs of movement in the shelter. His efforts were rewarded as his ears picked up a thump and muttered curse. Cracking open one eye, he saw Kathryn coming out of the bathroom, wrapped in just a robe, limping to the closest chair. He watched as she pulled a leg up and cross it over the other, carefully examining her big toe. The gesture was so innocent, so unlike the big brave captain every one knew; it went straight to Chakotay's heart.

 

"So, did you break it?"

 

"No, I just stubbed… hey, how long have you been awake?" Kathryn challenged in mock outrage.

 

Chakotay grinned and rose into a sitting position. "Just a couple minutes. I wanted to make sure it was safe; now, I'm not so sure. I think you've been spending too much time with B'Elanna; that's a rather colorful vocabulary you have there."

 

"I'll have you know Klingon cursing is considered a fine art, at least on the home world."

 

"I don't doubt it. Now, come here and it me take a look."

 

Kathryn nodded and limped over to the bed, sitting opposite Chakotay. She lifted her foot up and he gently took it. After a couple of minutes of looking and making 'hmmm' noises, Chakotay looked up to meet Kathryn's blue gaze.

 

"Well?" Kathryn prompted.

 

"Well, seeing as I'm not a doctor, I suppose I'll have to say this… " He grinned at her as he drew a finger lightly also the top of the foot and up her calf. Kathryn tried not to flinch as his leaned forward following the journey of his hand. "It's most the lovely toe… foot… calf… knee… thigh…" Chakotay paused dramatically as Kathryn shot him a bemused look. "…attached to the most beautiful woman I know."

 

"Nice save, commander," Kathryn declared as Chakotay covered the space between them. Pushing her down on the bed with the weight of his body, he took possession of her lips in a deep, startling kiss.

 

Time waned and seemed to stand still as his explorations became bolder. Kathryn squirmed as Chakotay's hand found its way into her robe to roam over the smooth skin of her stomach before making a trek northward. Kathryn, not to be passive, allowed her wandering fingers to knead the taunt muscles of his broad shoulders, back, and to destinations south. Mouths seemingly locked together finally broke apart as both gasped for air. Kathryn's mind was spinning… oh, the things that man could do with his tongue! The visions  conjured were of delights to come; they had her damn near swooning.

 

"Kathryn, we… " Chakotay began, when he got enough air to speak again.

 

"I know… " she whispered as she nuzzled his neck and hugged him furiously. "I have to meet B'Elanna."

 

"I should have met Harry two hours ago."

 

"I don't regret anything, Chakotay."

 

"Good; cause there's more where that came from."

 

With obvious reluctance, Chakotay rolled off to the side and Kathryn sat up so she could refasten her robe. She rose and went to the replicator, ordering coffee for both them. Chakotay took the cup she offered and disappeared into the bathroom for a couple of minutes. When he emerged, Kathryn was sitting at her desk to talking to B'Elanna on the comm link. He busied himself with straightening the bed and pulled on his thick winter tunic over his tee shirt. Kathryn joined him just as he finished pulling on his boots. They moved to the door; just as she opened it, Chakotay pulled her against him and they exchanged another shattering kiss. They parted with a rueful smile, each having thoughts of things to come.

 

~*~

 

Day 215

 

Almost two weeks had past since Chakotay had stayed with her and now he was off at the cabin, leaving Kathryn to oversee things.

 

Standing in the newly remodeled Engineering and flight hanger, she found it hard to believe that things were going so well. Voyager's former main cargo bay had been reconstructed to serve as a work area, having been used previously for storage. The 'Legacy Project' and work on the 'Delta Flyer' was coming along very well, better than expected. Everyone seemed to be holding their collective breath, as completion loomed closer. In three days, they were going to do an engine test. Yet, there seemed to be a gloom hanging everyone; even Naomi felt it. The cause became apparent to Kathryn the day she overheard Megan Delaney arguing with Joe Carey over wedding plans.

 

"I can't believe you're saying this to me, Joe."

 

"Meggie, I love you, please believe that."

 

"I'm trying but when you want us to wait until we find out if the Legacy space worthy. I'm beginning think otherwise," Megan exclaimed with tears welling up in her eyes.

 

"Darlin', you have to understand. I have or had by now, a wife and family back on Earth. If there's any possibility that I may see them again, especially my boys, I have to be open to it…  and so do you."

 

Carey smiled as drew her into his arms, "I know, Meggie; I know." He drew back and held her face in his hands. "Let's do this day by day, okay? Maybe that's the best way to deal with the future." He planted a kiss on her nose and pulled her close again.

 

Kathryn took a step backward out of range, sagging against the wall behind her; she pondered what she had heard. How many others felt this way? She had always assumed everyone would want to go home, yet now, she wasn't even sure she did. She and Chakotay were just getting started; what would happen to them if the Legacy turned out to be viable opinion? What if… Kathryn shook her head. This wasn't getting her anywhere; she needed some air. Pushing blindly away from the wall, she took a sharp turn and ran right into Seven.

 

"Kathryn, are you well?" the former Borg inquired as she steadied the smaller woman.

 

"I'm fine," Kathryn returned as she gazed up at the tall blond, feeling at a disadvantage and wishing she still had her high-heeled boots.

 

"Then there is something I wish to discuss with you… if you have a moment."

 

"Of course; let's use B'Elanna's office."

 

Seven nodded and followed Kathryn inside the small room, set off from the engineering bay. B'Elanna had left earlier in the day at Kathryn's insistence – the half-Klingon was still pushing too hard. Everyone had decided to help her help herself, even if it killed them.

Kathryn sat back in the chair behind the desk as Seven paced in front of it. There was obviously something very important on the Borg's mind, yet she was having trouble articulating it.

 

"Seven, what is it you need?" Kathryn said finally.

 

The blonde didn't look at her former captain as she spoke. "I wish to know what it is like to be in love."

 

Kathryn tried hard to hide a smile. "Is there a particular reason you have for asking?"

 

"I believe… that I am suffering from that malady," Seven pronounced evenly.

 

"Malady? Hmmm…  I see. Well, what is it that you would like to know? And why ask me?"

 

"I understand that one commonly inquires of a parent in matters of this sort. Since you are the closest I have, as a guardian, if you will, I thought that perhaps, given your current relationship to Chakotay, you may have a deeper insight," the former Borg explained as she finally sat stiffly in the chair opposite Kathryn.

 

"Really! Well, I'm flattered that you believe I am a plethora of information on this subject," Kathryn began as she leaned across the desk her chin cradled in her hand. "However, the truth is, no one is an expert on love."

 

"Then how do you know that you are in love?"

 

"Love is something that comes from deep within you. It’s like a glow, or fire that intensifies as you learn to respect, trust and share with each other."

 

"Then if you trust and respect someone… love is possible?"

 

"Yes, but it's always better that the person you love feels the same way. Otherwise, things can get very complicated. It's best to be truthful from the beginning."

 

"I believe I understand… " Seven said as she rose, "Thank you, Kathryn, for your insight."

 

Kathryn stood as well as Seven started to leave, then asked one more question. "Seven, might I ask who… "

 

"When he knows, I will tell you," Seven intoned cryptically and then was gone.

 

Kathryn shook her head, stunned and intrigued by the conversation she just had. Suddenly having an impulse to see Chakotay, she slapped her commbadge.

 

"Kathryn to Chakotay… "

 

"Chakotay here--"

 

"Hey you; are you planning on coming back tonight?" Kathryn asked, knowing her had been working on a special project at the cabin. In fact, she had seen little for him for the past four days.

 

"Actually, I was wondering if you would mind joining me?"

 

"Chakotay, I don't know. We were going to do engine tests in a few days and… "

 

"We'll be back in time, Kathryn, please. I think everyone will understand, we need this."

 

Kathryn smiled to herself, knowing he was right.

 

"Okay, I'll be there about dusk. Alright?"

 

"Perfect, love," Chakotay answered sounding as if she had promised him the world. Hell, maybe she had. "Remember to bring clothes and stuff for a couple of days. I love you, Kathryn."

 

"Love you; Kathryn out." Still smiling Kathryn slapped her commbadge again. "Janeway to Paris… "

 

"Paris here… "

 

"Tom, can you meet me in B'Elanna's office? Now?"

 

"Sure, I'll be there in a flash. Paris out."

 

Kathryn's mind was spinning as she hitched a hip up on the desk behind her. She had her own surprise in mind for her handsome beau, something he was not likely to ever forget.

 

~*~

 

Signing off with Kathryn, Chakotay turned to the two men behind him. "Harry, Hondo, thanks for your help on this; Kathryn's going to love it."

 

"Hey, anything for you, Kotay. You and Kit really need this."

 

“Yeah, and I'll make sure you don't get interrupted for the next forty-eight hours," Harry proclaimed as he slung his work kit over his shoulder.

 

“Thanks, Harry, but try to make that seventy-two hours, okay?"

 

"Got it," the young Asian answered with a grin and a salute.

 

Hondo followed slapping his friend on the back as he past. "Get a couple of hours of sleep, old man; you're gonna need it."

 

Chakotay shook a fist at the other man as laughter echoed through the trees in Hondo's wake.

 

~*~

 

B'Elanna couldn't help but smile as Kathryn filled a bag to take to Chakotay's cabin. It wasn't because of why she was doing it but because of what she was putting into the bag.

 

"Kathryn, I'm not sure you're going to need that," B'Elanna advised gently as her friend put one item in particular into the bag.

 

"I don't know what you mean… " Kathryn responded, honestly.

 

B'Elanna rose and went to Kathryn's side. Reaching inside the bag, she pulled out an object. "I don't really think you're going to be using a multi-phasic field enhancer, do you?"

 

Kathryn dropped down on the bed, covering her face with her hands. B'Elanna eased down beside her and waited for the older woman to acknowledge her; it didn't take long.

 

"I'm so nervous, B'Elanna; I can't think straight. I've never been this way before."

 

"Hey, I think it's natural, the way you're feeling. You're about to take a big step," B'Elanna said as she took Kathryn's hands in her own. "The question is…  are you nervous because you think you're making the right decision or is it that you believe this is wrong?"

 

"I want to be with Chakotay. I love him so much it scares me. But what if…"

 

"Kathryn, forget about what ifs. You have today…  tomorrow… and who knows, you could have forever; go for it."

 

Kathryn smiled and nodded. "Alright, but help me pack, okay?"

 

B'Elanna laughed and gave Kathryn a hug, then helped her put together what she would need for three fun filled days with the love of her life.

 

~*~

 

Chakotay made a slow circuit of the cabin making sure everything was ready. It had to be perfect, he reasoned, even down to making sure no one from New Hope made an ill-timed call to either of them, barring an emergency, of course. He had just walked into the small kitchen when he heard the front door open then close, and then his name being called.

 

"Hi… " Chakotay greeted Kathryn as he strode from the kitchen.

 

"Hi, yourself," she answered as she dropped her ‘small’ bag on the floor, meeting him in the middle of the floor.

 

He swept Kathryn into his arms and off her feet with a low groan. "Gods, I missed you."

 

"Mmmm, I missed you, too," Kathryn murmured as she hugged him tightly,  burying her face into his neck. After a moment, they pulled apart… just enough for hungry mouths to meet.

 

"Whoa, you did miss me!" Kathryn quipped as the kiss finally ended with both of them breathless.

 

"You doubted me?" Chakotay jibed as he helped her remove her coat and watched as she wandered the room. Kathryn glanced briefly into the bedroom just off the main room. At his words, she turned and met his dark gaze.

 

"Never…" she finally whispered in answer, taking a step forward. Chakotay smiled and grasped her hand, giving it a squeeze and a tug toward the table he had set.

 

"And on that note, let's have dinner. Then we have all night for… " He suddenly felt uncomfortable.  "Well, you know… "

 

Kathryn couldn't help but grin as she reached to kiss his cheek and whisper in his ear, "Yes, I know."

 

Chakotay returned her smile and then played gentleman by sitting her first at the table and taking it upon himself to serve them both. Music accompanied a light meal of quiche with a sparkling wine that was followed by a bowl of replicated strawberries and whipped cream. By the end of the meal, Kathryn was sitting in Chakotay's lap feeding him.

 

Neither seemed to realize how fast their situation had intensified, until the simple act of Kathryn placing a berry in Chakotay mouth turned up the heat. The effect was like an electric charge as he sucked in Kathryn's finger along with the berry. The woman in Chakotay's lap let out a gasp and was out of his embrace in a split second, looking wild-eyed.

 

"Kathryn?" Chakotay said in a questioning tone as he quickly got to his feet.

 

The auburn-haired woman was in his arms in a second. He wrapped his arms around her and waited; he didn't have to wait long.

 

Kathryn pressed her cheek against his chest as she whispered.  "I'm sorry; I just didn't want our first time to be in a chair at the dinner table," she confessed.

 

Chakotay chuckled softly and kissed the top of her head. "It's okay; I understand."

 

Kathryn finally looked at him, "Why don't you clean up while I go change into something a little more…  persuasive to the mood."

 

"Deal… " Chakotay murmured as he delivered a quick kiss and released her. Kathryn smiled shyly as she picked up her bag and headed for the bedroom. At the threshold, she paused and cast a long look at him.

 

"Don't be too long."

 

"No way… " He returned and began gathering up the dishes as fast as he possible could.

 

~*~

 

Fifteen minutes later Kathryn was standing in front of the full-length mirror that stood in one corner of the bedroom, giving herself a critical once over. Not bad, Kathryn; not bad at all, Kathryn told her reflection. B'Elanna had great taste. With a satisfied nod she turned from the mirror and began to circle the room lighting candles. She had always known Chakotay was a romantic but candles, fireplaces, silk sheets and romantic music… What a treasure, this man was, she thought. As she lit the last candle on the fireplace mantle, a soft squeak drew her attention to the door. There was Chakotay at the threshold with the most bemused and shocked look she had ever seen.

 

Chakotay couldn't believe what his eyes were telling him… his Kathryn standing before the fireplace in a white silk negligee. Her hair had a bronze sheen as it lay tumbled about her shoulders. To him she was an angel and he was in heaven.

 

"So, are you going to stand there all night?" Kathryn asked.

 

"Maybe, I'm enjoying the view," Chakotay said simply, but his feet belayed his words as they took a couple of steps forward.

 

"Really… and what, pray tell, do you like the most?" Kathryn inquired as her voice began to take on a husky timbre.

 

"Hmmm, now that a tough one," he answered, his eyes raking over her with increasing scrutiny. "Let me see; the negligee is nice."

 

"My surprise to you… it's a gift from B'Elanna."

 

"I'll have to thank her."

 

"What else?" Kathryn prompted as Chakotay began to circle her.

 

"Well, I think I need a little closer inspection," Chakotay whispered into her ear as he paused behind her. Kathryn shivered slightly as two fingers gazed her cheek and brushed her neck from earlobe to shoulder.

 

"Chakotay… " Kathryn groaned his name as an arm came around her waist and she was pulled back against the hardness of his chest. Her head fell back and to the side as Chakotay laid claim to her collarbone, trailing kisses as he went. She felt the thin strap of her gown slide from her shoulder and down her arm. It was replaced with the warm touch of lips on already-heated skin. Kathryn shivered again and Chakotay noticed; he pulled back and turned her around.

 

"Are you cold, Kat?"

 

Kathryn shook her head and wrapped her arms around his neck to draw him down to her. His lips met hers with urgent abandon. While her hands moved through his hair, Chakotay skimmed the smooth length of her lithe silk-encased body. Lips parted under duress to allow tongues to explore and dance.

 

Shadows playing on the walls of the bedroom showed a tantalizing image of two forms becoming one with the other. Kathryn pulled her mouth away from Chakotay's to move down his chin and neck, while slowly maneuvering them backwards toward the bed. Chakotay sensed her intention and stopped her. He was given a confused look and he hurried to clarify.

 

"I have something to show you; I've been saving it as a surprise. Would you close your eyes for a moment?"

 

Kathryn eyed him warily, but complied. When Chakotay was sure she wasn't peeking and that she was standing in the right place, he moved to the panel next to the mantle and touched a button. He returned to Kathryn's side as her surprise became visible.

 

"Okay, Kat; open your eyes."

 

"Chakotay, wha… omigod… is that what I think it is?"

 

"Yep… "

 

"But it's so… that's why you needed the tripolymer as a coating!" Kathryn rambled as she got on her knees to feel the surface. “It's perfect, Chakotay, thank you," she told him, giving him a kiss and a hug.

 

Chakotay grinned at her excitement. "Now, what kind of cabin and home for us would this be without a bathtub? By the way, it's identical to the one in the main room."

 

"This is not just a bathtub, Chakotay; it's a sunken piece of heaven!" Then the second part of what he said registered. "There's another one?!"

 

"Uh ah; hidden under the floor, just like this one."

 

Kathryn was shaking her head and mumbling, "One fireplace for two rooms and two bathtubs. You're incredible."

 

"I love you, Kathryn, that's all. I want the best for you," Chakotay told her as he grasped her hands and pulled her to her feet. They shared another kiss before Chakotay asked, "So, do you want to try it out?"

 

Kathryn considered this for a moment, then shook her head. "We'll try it after we make use of the bed."

 

"Good… " Chakotay replied as he pushed the button to close the floor over the bathtub and then, taking Kathryn's hand, led her to the bed.

 

They stood facing each other at the foot. Their gazes locked as Chakotay pulled his sweater over his head. Sitting down on the bed, he pulled Kathryn between his thighs. Her hands were on him in a second, moving slowly over his chest followed by warm lips. Chakotay's hands skimmed down to catch the hem of her gown and slowly dragged it upwards. Kathryn stepped back slightly and in a flourish it was over her head. Chakotay's eyes drank in the vision before him and smiled as she blushed under his scrutiny. He reached out and she came without hesitation into his embrace. Together they fell back on the bed… hands and lips exploring, encouraging and worshipping. Somewhere along all the line, Chakotay's pants disappeared, allowing heated bodies slide together with increasing abandon.

 

Momentarily on top, Kathryn sat up straddling his waist, her breath was coming in short gasps as she struggled to steady herself. Dark eyes melded with hers as she leaned forward, the silken veil of her hair brushing Chakotay's chest. To him it felt like feathers and it was driving him crazy. He grasped her tiny waist and expertly rolled her beneath him.

 

"Cheater… " Kathryn murmured, her husky with desire.

 

"You can pay me back later," Chakotay replied as he trailed his fingers lightly down her sides. He had discovered this had a deep effect on Kathryn, proven once again when she squirmed under his touch. He was determined to make this an experience she would never forget.

 

Kathryn's hands tangled in Chakotay's hair; it had grown long since they came to New Hope and she had found that she liked it that way. Now, it proved to be a good anchor as eager lips journeyed southward. Kathryn arched against him and Chakotay knew she was ready.

 

After a couple of moments, Chakotay ended his sweet torture and reclaimed her lips. The kiss deepened quickly and Kathryn moaned against his mouth as he brought them more intimately together. He stilled for a moment to allow her to adjust to the sensation then slowly began to move. Her fingernails raked his back as she wrapped her legs around his waist. Shared kisses mimicked the movement of their lower bodies. Time seemed to slow and almost stop as a frantic rhythm was broken with twin cries of release and the world about them exploded.

 

When Chakotay could finally think again, he focused on the shaking woman beneath him. He nuzzled her neck and whispered, "Kathryn, are you okay?"

 

Kathryn only nodded her eyes squeezed tightly shut. She still clutched at him, and nearly went crazy when he tried to shift off  her.

 

"No, stay; I don't want to lose you just yet."

 

Chakotay smiled and brushed damp curls off her forehead, "Hey, I'm not going anywhere. I just want to make you more comfortable; I'm pretty heavy." Kathryn opened her eyes and Chakotay saw they were bright with tears. "Kat--"

 

"I'm okay, it's just we waited so long for this. I don't want to let you go so soon."

 

"Don't worry, sweetheart; you're stuck with me now," Chakotay said as he repositioned them so that Kathryn lay tucked in beside him, her head pillowed on against his shoulder. He pulled the comforter over them and they lay there quietly as their breathing returned to normal.

 

"I love you, Chakotay," Kathryn murmured as sleep began to overtake her.

 

"I love you, too, my Kathryn," Chakotay answered as fatigue caught up with him. Soon, the two lovers wrapped tightly in each other were lost to the waking world.

 

~*~

 

Early morning was dawning when Chakotay was pulled slowly from a sated sleep by the soft, resonate sound of Kathryn singing. He tried not to move as he listened.

 

If there were no words
No way to speak
I would still hear you
If there were no tears
No way to feel inside
I'd still feel for you…

 

Kathryn smiled as she noted the change in Chakotay's breathing; he was awake. On her side, facing him, she propped up her head on one hand as she tenderly trailed her fingers along his brow to trace the dark lines of his tattoo. The long digits found their way into his hair as she whisper-sang the next verse of a song called Valentine:

 

And if the sun refused to shine
Even if romance ran out of rhyme
You would still have my heart until the end of time
You're all I need, my love, my Valentine…

 

"You know this is the second time you've woken up before me?" Chakotay chided gently.

 

"I know; habit, I guess." Kathryn confessed, knowing full well the reason she had awakened after their first session of lovemaking… she wanted to try out her bathtub. Chakotay had joined her and they had their second session. When they could move again, they left the bathtub went back to the bed. Thus followed a third session from which they were just awakening.

 

Chakotay leaned over and kissed her gently as a wandering hand moved over her hip and side in a tender caress. It brought the next verse to her lips:

 

All of my life
I have been waiting for
All you give to me
You've opened my eyes
And shown me how to love unselfishly…

 

"That's a beautiful song; where did you hear it?"

 

"It was part of that music you were playing last night. It just sort of stuck in my head." Kathryn paused as if gathering her thoughts. "Also, it helped me to let you to know, that if the Legacy turns out to be our ticket out of here, nothing is going to change between us. Nothing… " she affirmed.

 

Chakotay nodded in understanding and then pulled her on top of him, so he could look into the eyes of the woman he loved as she sang the chorus again:

 

I've dreamed of this a thousand time before
But in my dreams, I couldn't love you more
I will give you my heart
Until the end of time
You're all I need, my love, my Valentine.

 

Kathryn folded her arms on Chakotay's chest and rested her chin on them. She lay atop him full length, her legs tangled with his. Never had she felt more at home or comfortable.

He seemed to sense her thoughts as he encircled her with his arms. As she intoned final verse of the song, all he could think was it good to finally be home.

 

And even if the sun refused to shine
Even if romance ran out of rhyme
You would still have my heart until the end of time
'Cause all I need is you, my Valentine
You're all I need, my love, my Valentine.

 

As Kathryn's voice trailed off, Chakotay tightened his embrace. Kathryn's sighed softly as she laid her head on his chest. He was never going to let her go, nor she him. For together, they were all the other needed or knew…  a love… a Valentine.