Title: Dancing in the Dark
Author: Kim Riley a.k.a. MYSTIC
Disclaimer: The characters belong to Paramount. Again since
they are no longer using them I've decided to take our boys
out of the 'closet' and let them play and be happy. Enjoy.
Summary: Tom and Chakotay are sent on an away mission,
having to pose as a couple due to the society's gender
segmenting and come to a few realizations that neither man
was prepared for (for the J/C die contest)
Rating: R
Pairing: C/P
Feedback: Please! Mysticmcknight@hotmail.com
"Dancing in the Dark"
"How long do we have to be here?" Tom asked as he and
Chakotay just materialized in a back alley on the Radarian
homeworld; a place not up to Starfleet regulations on
technology and so the need to blend in to accomplish their
goal...getting their hands on a large amount of rare
dilithium and this was the only planet in range that had
any. The problem was that the crystal was all in populated
places and since they could not make direct contact, they
surveyed the area and decided on a plan of action.
"We're here for five days," Chakotay replied evenly as he
double checked that they had everything that they were
supposed to. From their scans, Tom and Chakotay didn't have
to have any alteration to blend in, the populous of Radarian
were humanoid with a fine mix of colors and shapes and sizes
that any human would blend in nicely. The only thing that
stood out was that the population was split by gender. Males
with males and females with females, though in main cities
like this one, both were present, but paired up with their
own gender. Further scans showed that the woman held more
power and were the warriors of this world, where men were
the thinkers and doers, so their covers. Tom was just as he
always was, a pilot, and from what he had been able to
determine could easily fly their planes, so it wasn't a far
stretch. Chakotay was listed in his papers that all citizens
had to carry as a buyer...or trader of goods, since he would
be handling the main negotiations for purchasing the
crystals needed.
Tom sighed, "I don't see why Voyager has to leave us here, I
mean, I'm sure it won't take us that long?" he whined
slightly as he fiddled with the tight leather band on his
right wrist, his bonding bracer...Chakotay had an identical
one, but in his size. "And what's with these things again?"
Chakotay, tired of Tom's whining already, gave a soft growl,
"Didn't you pay attention to anything in the meeting,
Paris?"
"Just that Voyager was dumping us here for five days while
they go food gathering on the next planet and that your
incharge...what more matters?" he replied, knowing full well
that there was more to the meeting than that, but he could
never resist a chance to tease the big man. He didn't
understand why he felt the need, but he did, though he was
very glad that over the years it had become more of a sport
between the two of them then a sense of animosity it once
had.
Chakotay huffed, "Voyager needs the food supplies for we
were almost out, and I 'know' you knew that," he growled
lightly. "Plus, our scans show that no male of our age
traveled without their spouse for any long distance...so
these..." he said gesturing to his bracer and Tom's, "Shows
the Radarian people that we are married, get it?"
"Got it."
"Good," Chakotay replied, unaware that he had given Tom
reason to smile, as he turned to pick up their things.
"Can you imagine it...us...married?" Tom snickered as he too
picked up his belongings.
"No," Chakotay replied easily as he started moving in the
direction Tuvok had indicated would lead them to the city,
from there they were on there own. "I know that same sex
relationships work for some people..." he said casually,
mostly for conversation, his mind on trying to figure out
their location from the maps he had studied before coming
down here.
"What...you're telling me you have a problem with it?" Tom
asked slightly surprised, for he never imagined Chakotay to
be closed minded like that.
Chakotay stopped and turned to face him, "no," he said
firmly; with slight surprise that Paris would think that of
him. "I'm only saying it's a way of life for some
people...that's all."
Tom unable to pass up the opportunity smirked, "What, you
never did it with a man?" he asked with a wry grin.
Chakotay knowing he was being teased sighed, "No, I have not
nor have I ever felt drawn too either, before you ask," he
replied, and then felt like a little table turning. "Why
have you?" he asked, as he started to walk forward again,
but keeping an eye on his companion.
Tom felt a tiny blush, knowing he should have seen that one
coming. "Well...no," he stated, feeling more bothered by the
fairness of his skin, knowing he was blushing. "And like
you, I've never felt the draw either."
"Well, then...there you have it," Chakotay said as they
stepped out into the busy streets of Tymorinia, one of the
largest cities of Radarian.
"What do we do now?" Tom asked, his eyes filled with the
layout of the huge city before him, not having seen anything
like it in years, back on earth, and then only in
holo-versions of old earth, as the building touched the
clouds and then some.
"We get a room, get settled, and then...we go crystal
hunting."
*****
"Ah, Commander..."
"No ranks Paris," Chakotay mumbled as he was unpacking his
bag into the chest draw the room provided.
"Ah, Chakotay...it only has one bed," Tom said, his tone
questioning, as if Chakotay must have not noticed this fact.
"Of course, most adult Radarian's travel in couples, married
couples, so they don't need more than one bed," he replied
nonchalant, not seeing the problem.
"But...where are...you going to sleep?" Tom asked, seeing
that by putting Chakotay on the spot, he'd have to do
something about it.
Chakotay straitened up and looked over his shoulder at Tom,
"I'm sleeping in the bed, you can either join me or make a
pallet on the floor," he replied evenly, though his dark
eyes sparkled with mischief, pleased to have once more
turned the table on the young man.
"Ha, ha," Tom replied, obviously not as pleased as Chakotay
was. "But seriously, Chakotay...can't we...?"
Chakotay sighed, "Look, what's to discuss? There is only one
bed, there will only be one bed, and we're both men...who
are not into other men...so...what's the problem, Paris?
Afraid I'll see you in your Teddy bear pj's or something?"
he smirked, his eyes warm, but he really didn't see what
bothered Tom about this arrangement.
"No, I don't wear pajamas, I usually sleep in nothing, for
your information," he smirked back, hoping to put Chakotay
off balance.
Chakotay wasn't buying today as he closed the draw with
fresh cloths in his hands and headed to the bathroom. "Well,
I suggest short for now, for the last thing I want is your
morning woody sticking in my back," he tossed over his
shoulder evenly as he closed the door.
Tom stood there quietly, amazed at Chakotay's casual reply,
but remembered that over the years their rapport was
growing, but this was new and he had to admit he liked
seeing Chakotay this relaxed; however he still didn't relish
sharing a bed with him. //Damn, what's wrong with me. If it
were Harry or any other man on the ship, I probably wouldn't
think twice...but Chakotay...? // he sighed for he never
quiet understood what it was about the man that pulled at
his soul so much? In the beginning he thought it was his
leadership abilities, and to a degree it was, but there was
more about Chakotay than that, it had nagged at Tom so much
that he chose to deal with it by nagging the man back. At
first all it got him was aggravation back, but with time,
both men had come to terms with each other and even a
budding friendship that had blossomed nicely, though from
time to time, Chakotay would still backslip...like now, and
refer to him as Paris. Tom felt there had to be a reason,
for it only occurred at the oddest time over the last two
years...he shook his head, he was getting side tracked.
Tom looked at the bed and sighed and moved to the right side
of the bed and did is little bit of fluffing the pillows and
fixing the covers; he knew he was weird this way, but it was
his way of connecting to the place, otherwise he'd never be
able to sleep. Then he too changed and made sure he had his
ID papers as Chakotay exited, also changed.
Both men were in light tan shirts and pants, common among
the males and works class they both were posing to be apart
of in this society. "Ready, Paris?"
"Tom," Tom corrected easily, for enough was enough already.
Chakotay stopped and his eyes gave an apologetic look,
"Ready, Tom?"
"I am now. Let's go find those crystals so we can take the
rest of the five days off as an over due shore leave," Tom
grinned.
Chakotay shook his head and walked out the door, letting Tom
lock up and they both headed out into the big city.
********
"That's not exactly how I pictured us making
contact," Chakotay stated, a wry grin on his face as they
reentered their hotel room.
"Hey, it worked didn't it?" Tom replied as he limped
to the bed as Chakotay moved off to the bathroom.
"Tom, falling on your face is not that I'd call good
tactics. It was pure chance that the person who helped you
up was someone in the mining industry..." Chakotay called
out as he walked out with a backpack that contained the
medical kit.
"Tactics, chance...I prefer fate," Tom replied
smugly as he slid back on the bed, flinching as he moved his
right knee.
"Hurt bad?" Chakotay asked as he sat on the edge
near Tom and pulled out the contents of the med kit he would
need to tend to Tom's injury.
"Not too bad," Tom replied, his voice tight, for
there was no doubt he twisted it when he fell. "And for the
record, I didn't simply fall at his feet, I was pushed by
that idiot, I'm telling you if I ever see her again..."
"Tom...let it go. Besides," Chakotay says as he
scan's Tom's knee, "It's not serious and the regenerator can
handle it," he adds as he puts back the scanner and pulls
out the regenerator and a hypo. He injects Tom before the
young man can protest, "It hurt, I could tell," he stated
flatly for his reasoning to give Tom the pain killer.
Tom shifted slightly, his eyes drawn, and then
softened, "Thanks."
"You're welcome," Chakotay replied easily as he
gently pulled up Tom's pants, glad that they were loose
enough for him to do so, and began running the regenerator
over the swelling. "So, where is it the guy..."
"Zorian," Tom interjected.
"Yes, Zorian. Where is it, Zorina wants us to meet
him tonight?"
"He said the After Dark club, I've got the address."
Chakotay arched a brow, "Strange place to do
business..."
"Chakotay, it's not for business," Tom clarified,
recalling that once Zorian had helped him up and the two men
started talking, how they clicked, then it came about that
Zorian worked for one of the mining companies, and of course
Chakotay sailed in and asked about the crystals. Tom knowing
people as he did, knew Zorian was in a hurry and mentioned
it, and was glad that between the two of them, Zorian had
taken a liking to them and had asked them to meet him. "It's
to socialize, you do remember how to do that, don't
you...Commander?" he teased.
"Funny, 'Paris'," Chakotay emphasizing Tom's last
name, "But you know that my duties don't fall into regular
hours as does flying," he replied, a tad bit defensive.
Tom noticing it, backed off, wondering if there was
trouble in paradise with Chakotay and the Captain, since
they have been dating for a while. "I know," he conceded
gently. "So, what better reason than to take advantage of
the opportunity tonight?" he chimed back in brightly.
Chakotay simply shook his head, for Tom was a very
complex man, though he was sure he had him mostly figured
out. Over the years, he and Tom had come to an understanding
of each other, and they both changed. He had been too much
of an overbearing bastard, and Tom had been an alcoholic
traitor...but with time and necessity, they both changed and
for the better, and became friends...good friends. Of course
it helped that Tom was dating B'Elanna, his 'little sister'
as he thought of her. Chakotay knew there would always be a
part of Tom Paris he would never understand, but he welcomed
the chance anyway...Tom had a way of making him feel
good...human, where others made him feel alienated, or
placed on some fleet pedestal. He liked Tom...he liked Tom a
lot, especially times like this. "Perhaps," he said evenly,
his eyes warm at the thought of relaxing and having fun with
Tom, for the young man had a knack of enjoying life where
ever he was, and Chakotay admired him for that.
"Terrific! How's the knee coming?"
"See for your self?" Chakotay smiled as he handed
Tom the scanner, feeling quiet pleased with his work. Sure
he was no medic of Tom's standards, but he could handle the
odd regenerator or two.
Tom scanned it and grinned, "Looks good, now...?" he
shifted the knee, and didn't feel any twinges, but some
tightness as was typical till all the swelling went down.
"Good job. Keep this up and I'm putting your name in for
Nurse training," Tom teased.
Chakotay started putting the stuff away as Tom
cracked his comment, "Sure thing, Tom. You can sign me up
for the nursing program," he stated as evenly as if he just
stated his name, "The day after you've officially been
certified as a doctor," he added, and smacked Tom on the
semi-injured knee as he got up.
"Ow...bastard!" Tom growled, though he wasn't really
angry, it didn't hurt, not after the healing and the pain
killer.
"I'm going to fix you a bath to help take the
swelling down. Between the two you should be right as rain
for tonight," Chakotay said over his shoulder as he moved
into the bathroom to put the kit away and fill the tub.
Tom sat quietly, taken slightly by how kind and
gentle Chakotay had been and how caring and courteous he was
still being, for no one really treated him as good as the
big guy did. //Sure Harry and B'Elanna treat me with
respect, but...// he shook his head, for he couldn't quite
put his finger on what it was about the way Chakotay treated
him and other friends or his girlfriend...but there was a
difference and he couldn't help but be moved by it, each
time it occurred. Even on their way back here, Chakotay had
practically carried him...would have, if Tom not protested
so much. //Chakotay is simply a good person,// he concluded,
for his brain couldn't fathom any other reason as he got up
and got ready to soak...in the bath, that Chakotay was
fixing...for him.
*************
Tom could see why this place was called the After
Dark, most of the spaces inside of the club...the night
club, was dark, though it didn't stop people from crowding
inside. It reminded Tom of some of the retro clubs back on
earth that he would sneak out too while he was in the
academy, except for being filled with only guys.
The place was full of people, mostly males, that Tom
automatically reached out and took Chakotay's hand so they
didn't get separated, not even thinking about the act as
anything but a survival technique.
Chakotay felt a bit overwhelmed, for it had been a
long time since he frequented this sort of place; he'd been
younger than and he and his friends were cruising for
women...this was nothing like that. It took a good five
minutes before he even realized that Tom was holding his
hand as they shifted and shimmied by people, looking for
Zorian, who said to look for him toward the back. He found
that it didn't bother him...Tom, holding his hand. //But it
would if someone else did...// he mused for a moment before
his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of someone
calling their names...which had to be very loud considering
the noise level in this place.
Tom saw Zorian and presumed the taller male, also
fair haired and skinned much like Zorian was, as they were
to himself, was Zorian's mate. Tom waved in response to the
man's call, so they knew he had heard them and spotted them
and started to guide Chakotay and himself over to the
back...there were less people in this part of the club. Most
of the people stayed near the bar and the main dance floor,
where Zorian and his mate seemed to prefer the more quieter
section in the back that had a smaller dance floor for less
'active' couples, as Tom thought of it.
"Glad you could make it," Zorian greeted as he took
Tom's hand in the wrist lock of greeting. "This is StaRred
Kerloresh, my mate," the six foot slim male smiled as he
gestured to the six foot two inch blond next to him.
"StaRred this is Tom..." he stumbled in his word and looked
embarrassed, "I'm sorry, I never got your last name," he
smiled awkwardly.
"Paris," Tom replied without thinking.
Zorian nodded, "StaRred, this is Tom Paris and his
mate Chakotay Paris, he's in trade purchase similar to you,"
Zorian grinned.
Chakotay was about to protest, when he felt a slight
squeeze on his hand and looked to see Tom had seen his
reaction and prevented him from making a blunder. This
society had two names, he would have to have one also...for
now. "Ah, yes. When it is more appropriate, I would like to
discuss the purchase of the crystal we talked about
earlier," he stated, just to make sure that this point was
never lost; it was the real reason they were here.
"Of course, of course," Zorian agreed easily as he
gestured for the two men to have a seat at the one of the
few tables this place had to offer. "I hope you don't mind,
but I took the liberty of ordering some drinks for us when I
saw you enter," Zorian added, as he saw his new friends take
a seat, noticing that Chakotay took the outer seat, keeping
Tom close to the wall and giving the older man a sweet
smile.
"I hope you don't mind me being forward," StaRred
said as he scooted closer to the table so everyone could
hear what he was saying, "But how did you two get together,
I mean...the age difference...?" he asked, his eyes
inquisitive, nothing more.
Before anyone could reply, not that Chakotay or Tom
knew what to say, not understanding the culture fully,
Zorian gave a light slap on StaRred's arm, "I can't believe
you asked them that! I'm sure Chakotay does not wish to
discuss he grievance over the past but remain blessed here
and now with his new chosen."
"Yes," Chakotay replied, jumping on the opening that
Zorian had unknowingly given him. "I am extremely blessed to
have found, Tom," he added, believing it to be the natural
thing to say, while giving Tom's hand a natural squeeze.
Tom couldn't help but squeeze back and smile, the
comment, though obviously not true, still moved him, and he
had to admit, it was nice holding Chakotay's strong hand,
since they had not stopped since he took it upon himself to
do so over ten minutes ago.
"I didn't mean to offend," StaRred added quickly, "I
was just curious at the age difference, it is unusual...not
unheard of, but...well...?" he looked at Tom as if he should
understand.
Tom feeling two set of eyes on him, squirmed in his
seat and looked at Chakotay for help, his fingers
unknowingly broadcasting his distress by rubbing Chakotay's.
Chakotay suddenly blessed with a bit of insight,
gave Tom a soft smile and turned to the two slightly younger
men, "When I saw Tom I knew he was for me and it took
everything I had, but I swayed him to look my way instead of
those he normally would have chosen."
Tom couldn't help it; it didn't matter if Chakotay's
words were false, they still made Tom blush, so he dipped
his head, unaware of how 'cute' it made him look. After a
moment he was able to understand what Chakotay had been
hinting at, that people chose mates from among their age
group, as if almost paired up, and going outside of that
boundary was...unusual. // Well one good comment deserves
another,// he mused and finally looked up at twinkling eyes
of his companions. "Yes, Chakotay was out of my...range," he
smirked playfully as he eyed Chakotay out from the corner of
his eye and continued, "But it really didn't take as much as
he said to sway me," he added, playing up the moment.
"No?" StaRred asked, amazed at this tale of love and
romance.
"No," Tom grinned, and willed himself not to laugh
as he spoke again, "He had me at hello," Tom replied,
grinning ear to ear, trying not to giggle at the line he had
stolen from one of the vids he and B'Elanna had watched
while on one of their dates.
"Wow, that's beautiful," Zorian replied in a
reverent whisper.
"That was...something," Chakotay said, his own eyes
filled with amusement as well as touched, and something else
that even he could not quiet figure out and so let it pass.
"So, tell me about you two," Chakotay asked, wanting to
redirect the conversation off of them, for if Zorian and
StaRred dug too deeply, he knew Tom or himself were bound to
mess up since they were not from here. He was glad that once
he turned over the conversation back at the two younger men,
they took off yapping, leaving Tom and himself free to
listen and learn...and still holding hands.
*********
"That was fun," Tom chuckled as he and Chakotay
entered their hotel room.
"Yeah it was," Chakotay smiled as he locked the door
and started gathering his stuff for a shower. "You mind if I
shower first?"
"Naw, go ahead," Tom yawned. "Just don't use all the
hot water," he teased.
"What? I thought you would be used to cold showers
with some of the fights you and B'Elanna sport," Chakotay
teases back as he takes off his shirt while kicking off his
shoes.
"Ooh, witty tonight are we?" Tom counters his eyes
narrowing, a glint of impish spark within them. "If anyone
should be use to cold showers it would be you, having been
chasing the Captain all those years."
Chakotay chuckled, "True," he replied, not going to
let Tom's barb ruffle him, since he knew it was for fun.
"But since I have 'caught her' that has become a thing of
the past, something I can not say for you...right?" he
tossed back, a glowing smirk on his face.
"Cold, big man," Tom smirked, his eyes unknowingly
drinking in the half naked man before him as he walked to
the archway to the bathroom.
Chakotay smiled, for he knew if Tom wanted to push
it, he'd win hands down and was grateful for the reprieve,
"Don't worry, I'll save you some hot water. Why don't you
warm up the bed," he quipped as he closed the door.
"Warm up the bed? What do I look like...your wife?"
he muttered as he gathered his things, his thoughts jumbled.
He tossed his thoughts aside for the warmth of the moment,
for over the years he had come to enjoy Chakotay's company
as much if not more than Harry's, and that was saying
something. The man was intelligent, witty, kind, cute...
//Did I just think cute?// he asked himself as he stood up
straight and looked in to the vanity mirror dazed. //Naw...I
didn't think that...did I?// He shook his head, chalking it
up to the night at the bar, and pushed all thoughts of
Chakotay aside for B'Elanna, his girlfriend...well he tried
anyway.
**********
He felt good. It had been a long time since he slept
this good as he snuggled deep into the warmth that was
curled up to him. He tightened his arms around the softness
that he held, recalling his old teddy bear...Pooka, that he
snuggled with at nights and how it made him feel all warm
and wonderful in the morning; he felt that way now. He
snuggled more, feeling the soft hair against his cheek,
//Kathryn,// he mused as he caressed his cheek against the
hair again, but something was different, for he never
compared her to his Pooka before...nor was she so solid...?
Chakotay opened his eyes and realized that he was snuggling
up to a sleeping Tom Paris. The two men had shifted in their
sleep and had cuddled up to each other in the night, now Tom
was half on top of him, much like Kathryn would be, except
he didn't snore. He grinned at that little comparison, but
pushed it aside, for he should not be cuddling his friend
like this at all, much less be comparing him to
Kathryn...no, not at all. He looked down and grinned, this
time because Tom had a sweet smile on his face as he
absently cuddled deeper in his arms and gave a little bubble
breath in exchange for a snore...it was just so cute!
//Sheesh, did I just think Tom was cute?// he shook his head
and chalked it up to the earliness of the morning. There
were other thoughts tingling at the back of his mind, but he
pushed them aside too, as he slowly slipped out from Tom and
headed to the bathroom, it was morning and they had things
to do, and the last thing he needed was silly comparisons of
his best friend and his best girl.
***************
Talks at a professional level for the crystals went
well, but there would still be the fine points to work out
and of course the delivery and payment. Chakotay had worked
out the method, but would need Voyagers replicator systems
to create that amount, and so arranged for payment to be
made in six, days, giving them more than enough time for
Voyager to return and create the needed materials.
Zorian and StaRred had invited Tom and Chakotay back
to the After Dark, and of course Tom agreed without thinking
and was glad that Chakotay did not seem to have a problem
with it. The place was less crowded and a few more woman in
ratio than before, but Tom knew where he was going and led
Chakotay to the back, unknowingly taking his hand once again
from the moment they entered the building, like a habit that
just formed.
"Greetings," both Zorian and StaRred stated warmly,
welcoming their new friends. "I didn't order anything, would
you like..."
"Oh, I'll take care of it," Tom interjected, being
the friendly sort he was.
"I'll go with you," StaRred added as he got up and
followed Tom to the bar.
"Talks went well, according to StarRred," Zorian
spoke up to get the ball rolling with the older man that had
his eyes half locked on his mate. Zorian couldn't help but
grin, it was just too adorable to see a couple still so
'into' each other as these two obviously were. "He is
beautiful, isn't he?" Zorian suddenly said, and grinned at
seeing Chakotay start and then a tiny blush fill his dark
cheeks.
"I'm sorry, what?"
"I said, he is beautiful...your Tom," Zorian
repeated.
"Ah..." Chakotay found himself at a loss for a
moment as he looked at Tom who was waiting with StaRred near
the bar for service. "Yes....yes he is," he replied, a tiny
bit of him amazed at just how true his words were. Then he
snapped out of it and looked back at Zorian, "So, tell me,
how did you get into the mining industry?" he asked, looking
to change the subject.
Meanwhile, Tom stood patiently next to StaRred, half
talking to him, the other half glancing back at the table
where Chakotay and Zorian were talking.
"I'm sorry for what I said the other day," StaRred
suddenly said.
This caught his attention, "sorry, for what?"
"About indicating that he was too old for you,"
StaRred clarified. "I mean, after getting to know him, I can
see the attraction, beyond his gorgeous looks," StaRred
added.
"Gorgeous?" Tom repeated a bit dazed.
"Oh please, don't you tell me for one second that
you don't think your husband is anything less than
absolutely gorgeous. I mean, don't get me wrong Zorian is
very attractive..."
Tom didn't hear StaRred as he looked back and stared
at Chakotay, pondering if the words absolutely gorgeous
actually fit the man, and to his stunned surprise as he
watched the man smile and laugh at something Zorian said and
found himself not only aware that yes, Chakotay was very
gorgeous, but he was suddenly angry that it 'was' Zorian
that was making him laugh. As if suddenly possessed he was
going to put a stop to it when...
"Hey, watch where you're going, Terrik!"
Tom blinked and noticed a woman, about his size in
build and height, who looked very familiar glaring at him.
His mood, having been previously foul, glared back, "What
did you call me?"
The woman glared back at Tom like he was her new
play toy to kick around, and smirked. "I called you a
Terrik, want to make something of it...Terrik?"
StaRred, knowing that Tom was not from around here
saw the puzzlement and of course had to let the poor man
know that Terrik was their word for, what Tom could
comprehend in human terms was a fancy pool in heat and who
was sold around to breed puppies, and not the least, did he
like it one bit.
"Why you little, bitch," he snarled back once he
understood her insult.
Now it was her turn to be confused, but Tom was more
than glad to inform her of what he meant. "In your case, a
bitch is a dog in heat that will sleep with anything," he
smirked back.
"Why you..." she stepped forward, but stopped short
when Chakotay, who had caught wind of the ruckus, stepped in
front of Tom.
"What seems to be the problem?" he asked in his even
calm, but authoritative voice.
The woman, looked over Chakotay and smirked as if
two toys were better then the price of one, "Look,
short-stuff, if you want your turn, I'll be more than glad
to kick your ass once I've finished with..." she spotted the
bracer, "your Terrik, here," he stated smugly.
"Look, officer, I'm sure..." Zorian tried to say,
knowing that she was a guard and more than capable of
hurting his friends.
"Stay out of it or you'll be next," she hissed.
"You're a poor excuse of an officer if this is how
you behave," Chakotay stated, his voice never rising, but
his eyes narrowing.
She eyed Chakotay again, her arrogance full in her
eyes, "I bet you wanted to be a solder didn't you?" she
asked as if knowing this man well. "Too bad they don't take
throw-backs like you," she mused darkly.
"Why you..." Tom growled, and took a step forward,
more than ready to show her a thing a two. It was one thing
to insult him, but no one insulted Chakotay. But Chakotay
simply held up his arm to block Tom and he stopped.
"She's not worth the trouble, Tom," he said, his
eyes never leaving hers. "Get the drinks and let's drop
this," he stated firmly.
"But Chakotay, didn't you hear what she said to
you?"
"Tom," he said, hoping he heard the order in his
voice.
"Listen to you owner, Terrik," she smirked, seeing
victory.
"Your mouth is going to get you into more trouble
than you can handle," Chakotay warned, his eyes now blazing
since Zorian had informed him of what the insult she was
spouting at Tom meant.
Feeling confident, she decided to take her fun to
the next level, "As I said to your 'Terrik' , want to make
something of it?" she asked as she went to swat at Chakotay
only to find her wrist held in his hand, locked between the
wrist and palm. She then punched with her free hand only to
have it grabbed in a similar manner and before she knew it,
she was being dropped to her knees, spun around with her
arms arched behind her with her body and face on the ground
with a foot on her back, her wrist, still locked in his iron
grip, somehow having had been switched from one hand to the
other without ever feeling it and in a lot of pain.
"Enough!" another woman, dressed similar to the
woman on the ground ordered. "Release her," she snapped at
Chakotay who did so at once.
The woman from the ground was up on her feet in
seconds, but the other woman was now in her face. "Before
you speak, I suggest you think real hard about what you are
going to say, for I witnessed the whole thing and I'm sure
you know what 'I' think on this matter...right?"
"Yes, Ma'am," the other woman replied tight lipped,
her eyes shooting daggers toward Chakotay and his friends.
"Dismissed. I'll see you back at the station and
believe me, we 'will' talk about this," she growled at the
other woman and watched her leave. Then she looked toward
Chakotay and eyed him.
"It was an accident, and then she..." Zorian started
but was gently interrupted by a hand rising to stop him.
"As I said, I saw the whole thing, and before you
aske," she said looking at Chakotay seeing the question in
his eyes, "I didn't stop it, for I 'wanted' her to get into
trouble. She's been trouble for sometime, but without
proof...well...let's just say that now I have it and leave
it that shall we?"
Since Tom and he didn't belong here and he really
didn't want this to be dragged out anymore than necessary,
he nodded. "Fine," he replied sharply.
Seeing that these two were really wind-up she knew
she would be better talking to the other two men, "Why don't
you and your partner go dance," she said, indicating the
dark dance floor and the slow music that was playing most
this evening. "Go calm down, we'll talk later," she ordered.
Tom, now calmer, since the matter was over, saw how
angry Chakotay was by the fire in his black eyes, for he
could tell that this matter was not settled to his
satisfaction. Chakotay would have never set an innocent up
like that, and so seeing the fire, and hearing the orders
from the officer, thought it better if he took the lead,
and grabbed Chakotay's hand and led him off to the dance
floor.
"Tom, I don't want to dance," Chakotay huffed as Tom
led him out to the far end of the floor, away from the crowd
and the bar.
"I know, but it'll let you calm down, and you know
we can't get involved anymore as it is," he said stopping to
face Chakotay, and not even thinking, placed his arms around
his neck, since it was most comfortable for him.
"Then why did you get into an argument with her in
the first place?" Chakotay asked, following Tom's lead, and
turned to face him, placing his arms around his slender
waist, siding stepping it to a slow tune.
Tom was about to protest the accusation, but then
settled and looked embarrassed. "I'm sorry, Chakotay. It did
start out as an accident, I bumped into her and the next
thing I know she's insulting me and well...you heard what
she called me."
Seeing the hurt in Tom's eyes is what calmed
Chakotay's anger, as he swayed with Tom on the dance floor.
"Yes, I heard, and though you were wrong to pick a
fight...which I won't report," he added to brighten up those
sad blue eyes, and was rewarded by his effort with a tiny
smile, "You don't deserve to be called such a thing,
especially since it's a total lie."
The tiny smile grew at Chakotay's words, "Thanks.
And...thanks for stepping in for me, though..."
"I know you can take care of yourself, Tom. I would
have stepped in for anyone," he stated, not wanting Tom to
feel he didn't respect his abilities.
Tom nodded his understanding, and then a glimpse of
an impish grin crossed his face, as Tom relaxed into
Chakotay's hold. "For anyone, huh?" he teased.
Chakotay, thinking that Tom was calling him on his
bluff, looked away, not knowing that he gave the appearance
of being bashful, "Well, perhaps not just anyone," he
replied softly.
Tom was touched by this revelation, and smiled. But
not sure what else to say, remained silent and continued to
dance with Chakotay, as both of them swayed slowly to the
music in the dark. After a few minutes, Tom shifted in
Chakotay's arms, not caring in the slightest if he was
leading or not, not that either of them could tell, and laid
his head on Chakotay's shoulder, feeling it was okay to do
so.
Chakotay felt Tom shift deeper into his arms and
held him closer and was okay with Tom resting his head on
his shoulder. In fact, it felt nice holding him this way. He
was becoming aware at how firm and trim his build was. How
soft his hair felt and how he smelled good too, the last
part gaining an unknowing smile from himself. The next thing
he knew he closed his eyes, his cheek resting on Tom's hair
and just felt Tom in his arms, letting his hands caress up
and down his strong slim back, feeling him, soothing him,
holding him.
He had to admit, it was nice being in Chakotay's
arms. Sure he had danced with a man before, going from one
social party to the next, Tom had danced with all sorts of
people, male and female, but he had to admit, he rather
liked dancing with Chakotay like this the best. His arms
were strong but his touches were gentle, much like the man
himself, as he felt those strong fingers glide up and down
his back, sparking tiny tingles in his body. He gave a soft
sigh of contentment and snuggled deeper.
Hearing the sound of Tom's comfort and feeling him
snuggle, made Chakotay grin, for it felt like this morning
all over again, and he had to admit, it was very nice
holding Tom in his arms...very nice. He shifted his head to
look over to see if Tom was resting and saw him suddenly
looking back at him, his firm pink lips turned up in a soft
but sincere smile his eyes glowing with life and Chakotay
suddenly became lost in them, having never noticed how deep
they were until now.
Tom felt Chakotay shift and looked to see if he was
okay and found deep warm and intense brown eyes looking into
his and he felt as if he was falling and flying all at the
same time, while feeling being so drawn to them and the set
of full lush lips that was near him.
The moment seemed to hang in the air forever, as
both sets of eyes grew hooded and lips grew close...
"Excuse me, gentlemen," the officer stated.
Tom and Chakotay jumped apart, much like two school
boys getting caught by a teacher and looked flushed as they
looked at the woman.
"I'm sorry," she said, trying not to laugh, for they
looked so adorable, "I didn't mean to interrupt, but I
wanted to ask you," she looked at Chakotay, "how you do
that?"
Chakotay clearing his throat, got back in focus, "Do
what?" he asked, unsure what she was referring too.
"That move. I saw it, but I didn't believe it. I
mean...it was something. How did you learn something like
that anyway?" Seeing Chakotay hesitate, she added, "I'm not
looking to get you into any trouble, just wanted to see if I
could pick it up," she smiled.
Chakotay thought about it a moment, "I learned it
out of necessity," he replied. "And I practiced...lot's of
practice," he added. "But if you like, I can show you the
basics, but...that's about it."
"That would be fantastic...if that's okay with you?"
she asked Tom, showing respect to his position as husband.
"Ah, sure, that would be fine," Tom replied, wanting
a distraction from...whatever just almost happened here.
"I'll just go...get us some drinks," he stated rather
quickly and left the two to do their thing, finding out that
Zorian and StaRred had gone home and left a message that
they would contact them later.
**********
Tom and Chakotay entered their hotel room in
semi-silence, just a few words here and there to get things
settled. After they got changed for bed and laid down, both
men tossed and turned, unable to sleep.
"Tay, what did you mean you had to learn that move
out of necessity?" Tom asked, wanting to do something than
just lay there, avoiding his thoughts of other matters.
"It doesn't matter," Chakotay gruffed and turned to
his side facing away from Tom.
"Come on," he insisted, turning to lean on his elbow
and stare at the strong back of his companion.
Chakotay huffed, for he knew that Tom was not the
sort to let things go...not easily, and he didn't feel like
fighting him tonight. "Back in academy, I was...rather small
in build..."
"You...small?" Tom asked as if Chakotay was joking.
Chakotay gave a tiny growl, "Yes me," he replied and
turned to lie on his back. "I went in when I was fifteen and
still had a lot of growing..."
"Fifteen?"
"Do you want to hear this or not?" he asked, feeling
a mixture of irritation and strangely, amusement at Tom's
interruptions.
Tom gave a crooked smile, "Yes, I do. Sorry.
But...fifteen, wow, I still had to wait till I was eighteen
before being admitted, Father or no.
"Well, I was one of the lucky ones, but that's
beside the point. As I said, I was rather...scrawny for my
age...much like you are now," he teased, feeling some of the
sourness leave him.
"Scrawny!"
"Stop interrupting," he stated, to cut Tom short and
continued. "As I said before once again being rudely
interrupted," and grinned at Tom's huff, "I was scrawny," he
grinned even more, "And so I got picked on a lot in the
first few months at the Academy. One of the instructors took
notice and gave me the choice, of reporting them or learning
to handle them. I took the latter, telling them, that I
couldn't go telling forever, especially if there was no one
to tell. He laughed and taught me that move among others and
in the process of learning self-defense I built up my body
too"
"Oh, so that's what you meant by lot's of practice,"
Tom grinned, but noted the shift in the dark eyes to those
recalling bad memories. "Tell me," he said softly.
"Did you notice where my foot was when she was on
the ground?"
"Yes?"
"Well, the final move of that maneuver is to pull
back hard, thus breaking the spine...I..."
"Shh, it's okay, I understand," soothed Tom, knowing
it was the war and other battles, and the memory of it
didn't set well with Chakotay, and Tom wanted him to know he
understood and that he didn't have to talk about it if he
didn't want too, by shushing him and reaching out and
placing a gentle hand on his bare chest, and unknowingly
giving a slight caress.
"Thank you, Tom" Chakotay said softly. Then became
aware of the caress and his eyes looked to his chest then
Tom, who quickly caught his actions and pulled back.
"Thank you for sharing that," Tom said quickly and
shifted to his back, pulling the cover up over his bare
chest.
Both men laid there quietly, staring at the ceiling,
their minds in a whirl of thought, very aware of the other
one next to them.
"Chakotay?"
"Hmm?"
"Can I ask you a question and get an honest answer?"
There was silence for a moment, then, "Of course,
Tom. What?"
"Back at the club...while we were
dancing...uh...were you...I mean...we..." he sighed, for
this was difficult. "Were we about to...you know...kiss?" he
asked, feeling his face flush with embarrassment, especially
if the answer was no and this was entirely in his head.
The silence was killing Tom but just before he spoke
again he heard Chakotay take a deep breath, "Yes."
"Oh."
Once again the silence lingered
"Tom?"
"Hmm?"
"Can I ask you a question and get an honest
response?"
This time it was Tom's turn to ponder the question
before replying, "yes."
"I was wondering...I mean..."
"Yes."
"I was wondering if...if I..."
"Yes," Tom said again, but this time Chakotay could
tell it was not a query of his stuttered question, but a
response.
Chakotay shifted to his side and looked at Tom
looking up at him, his eyes a mixture of hesitation and
excitement, much like he felt, but no fear. He had never
kissed a man before, but he wanted, for some reason, to kiss
Tom, very much so at the moment. His eyes took in Tom's
sparkling blue eyes, his firm moist lips, his flushed pale
cheeks, and his soft golden hair and felt his heart race.
Swallowing hard, he licked his lips, not noticing Tom's eyes
growing darker in response to his actions, and leaned in
slowly and brushed his lips across Tom's.
Tom felt Chakotay's soft firm full lips touch his
own, seconds after he closed his eyes in anticipation of the
kiss, and felt a bolt of lightening fire through him,
starting from his lips. The kiss was hesitant at first, but
as Tom responded, needing to know more of those sensuous
lips, he felt them press harder against his own and he
responded in kind. Suddenly a tongue licked his lips, asking
for permission and he was more than willing to open for it,
thus truly drinking in the sweetness of the mouth on his; it
was like ambrosia, so full of life and intoxicating.
The next thing he knew, he felt strong arms holding
him and him moving in closer to feel the heat off the strong
body next to him. He gave a soft moan, for the kiss was so
good, so hot, and he so much wanted it to never end.
Hearing Tom moan into their kiss, created one from
himself, as it sparked the fire to ignite within him. He
wanted to taste Tom, hold him, touch him...every where.
Feeling Tom's strong slender body rub against him sparked
that fire higher. He needed to taste his soft tempting skin
and moved from the wonderful moist heated mouth to the
strong jaw line, then up his cheek to his sexy pink ear, "I
want to taste you, touch you,' he panted in between kisses,
not able to think beyond the moment, as his hands did just
as he said he wanted to do...touch.
Tom felt the strong hands caress his shoulders, then
his back as he rolled into Chakotay's embrace wanting to
increase the kiss. Then feeling that sensuous mouth move
across his face up to his ear, sent that bolt of lighting
streaking through him, now originating from every touch of
lip and hand as they moved on him. He felt strong fingers
for the first time caress his back, while the other hand
moved and caressed his chest, petting the light hair upon
it. Hearing Chakotay's words of desire fried out any
thoughts that may have been present; all he wanted now was
to feel Chakotay touch him and to touch Chakotay in return.
"Please," was the only word he could manage as a response.
Chakotay kissed and licked and sucked on Tom's pale
cream colored skin, while his hands caressed every curve of
Tom's strong muscular body, getting to know every inch, from
the strong slim shoulders down to the firm hips and firm but
soft butt, that made Tom moan the loudest when he squeezed,
and so he squeezed often. His body was on fire, as he
touched Tom everywhere...almost everywhere. He pushed off
Tom's sleep shorts and felt Tom do the same for him, both
men having kicked the covers aside a while ago, and he
stopped his actions and drew back, his hands resting on
Tom's hips.
Tom opened his eyes and saw Chakotay's black fiery
eyes staring at him, as both men were panting. "What's
wrong?" he asked, his brain still hazed with desire.
"Nothing," Chakotay panted, as he took in Tom's full
beauty, seeing his body in its full glory. "I was
just...looking," he said, then his eyes met Tom's, "your
beautiful," he panted.
Tom shivered at Chakotay's words, for he had never
had anyone...anyone look at him like that. With such intense
sincere emotion and hunger, for a few seconds he thought
Chakotay would eat him, and then he shivered in anticipation
of whatever Chakotay would do. Then...he took a look at
Chakotay and saw his muscles rippling and glistening and had
he not already been lying down, he would be, for he felt
weak in the knees, he was so... "Gorgeous," he panted in
reply. "If I'm beautiful, you're gorgeous," he grinned.
"Tom...I want you," he panted. "I just...I just
don't know what to do, I've never..."
"Me neither," Tom replied. "Just touch me, touch me
baby," he purred, as he caressed his hand up Chakotay's firm
thigh feeling the heat and strength of his body under his
fingers and felt even more turned on. "Just touch me," he
whispered as he pressed his body against Chakotay's and felt
the heat.
Chakotay took Tom's advice and kissed him soundly,
while once more caressing him. He shifted Tom to his back
and covered him with his body, meeting no resistance and
felt Tom open his leg to accommodate him and he shifted
between them, and then the blaze hit when their cocks
brushed.
"YES!" Tom cried out, feeling Chakotay's thick
pulsing member pressed upon his own. "Touch me, Tay, touch
me," he cried out as Chakotay's shifted over his as the big
man settled over his body.
Chakotay didn't need anymore direction for the
moment, as he bit, licked and kissed Tom's neck while
thrusting his hips, giving and getting the friction both
wanted and needed for release. "This feel good, baby," he
asked as he thrusted harder, feeling Tom's and his cock
gliding against each other, the moisture of their pre-cum
making it even better.
"Oh yes, Tay, I like, don't stop, touch me, Tay,
touch me," Tom moaned, thrusting his hips in rhythm with
Chakotay's.
Soon both men were lost in the heat of their union,
as Tom was lost in Chakotay's dominate embrace and Chakotay
was lost in his possessive hold of Tom. Chakotay stopped
attacking Tom's neck and leaned up to look into Tom's face
and was lost in his eyes and all the electricity he saw
there, gazing back at him. They continued their thrusting as
one, their eyes locked on the other, as if more than their
bodies were merging. When the moment was about to hit,
Chakotay bit Tom on the shoulder by the neck, as if claiming
his mate, as Tom howled, more from his orgasm, than any
pain, as his body convulsed in intense pleasure, spurred on
by feeling Chakotay's orgasm too.
In moments both men, curled into each other on their sides
and were sound asleep, with very large satisfied smiles on
their faces.
**************
He felt good, very good as awareness was coming to
him with the morning light that was warm upon his face.
Slowly he started categorizing his situation as the brain
does subconsciously as one wakes and found for a moment that
he was cuddling his pooka, then as another second or two
passed he knew it was Tom Paris and opened his eyes and
looked down into the sleepy blue eyes that were now looking
up at him and he smiled.
"Morning," he whispered, his face grinning with pure
joy as he looked deep into the bright sky eyes that were
beaming full of life, love and happiness right back at him.
"Morning," Tom purred, as he became more aware that
he was curled up lovingly and safely in his lover's arms.
//My lover,// Tom's mind sighed with pure contentment he had
never know before.
There didn't seem to be any awkwardness between
them, just joy and a sense of belonging, that this was
exactly how they should wake up every morning. Chakotay
gazed deep into Tom's eyes and felt them lock again, the
connection still there from last night and it was
strong...very strong. He leaned in and met Tom halfway as
they kissed, this time slow and tender. Their bodies
trembled at the emotions of love that vibrated through them,
as if it had been held in check till this very moment.
Tom opened his eyes slowly, much like Chakotay as
they gradually ended the kiss, once again looking into each
others souls. Tom had known so much about Chakotay, that his
passions ran deep, that he was a good and caring man, noble
of heart and courageous in spirit. But till know he never
knew all his fire or ever felt the depth of his strength, in
his arms and in his gaze... Chakotay was a force of nature
tamed by his own will that had a core as pure as gold, and
who now lay beside him, open, vulnerable and unknowingly
waiting for Tom to decide what he wanted, while strong
fingers caressed his shoulder where he boar Chakotay's
mark...Tom knew then exactly what he wanted.
Chakotay was lost in the love that shined brightly
at his, for he could not have imagined ever feeling like
this, much less so quickly, but yet...he relized it was not
quickly. He had known Tom for many years and what was now in
his heart and soul had been growing steadly with every
passing day till it was so strong it could no longer stay
contained...he loved Tom Paris. He was going to say so when
Tom suddenly moved forward and then bit him on the
shoulder...hard, almost in the exact same place he had
bitten Tom. He couldn't help the yelp from the sudden
unexpected pain. When Tom drew back he saw the electricl
storm blaze in now stormy blue eyes that looked at him
intensly and so full of...yes...love.
"I have chosen you as you have chosen me," Tom
stated, feeling that the words were appropriate to the
moment. He loved Chakotay, wanted to be
Chakotay's...forever. It was in that defining moment that he
realized that all these years that was 'exactly' what he had
wanted, but just didn't know it, for till tonight, it had
never been a clear option. He had never thought of guys that
way...but Chakotay, he realized was not a guy...just his
soul mate in the form of one and couldn't be more pleased.
Chakotay's eyes sparked with love, fire and
understanding...Tom wanted to be his mate! Chakotay could
see that Tom understood what had been happening to them over
the years, the many moments that lead to this union...a
union they almost missed while on Voyager....Voyager."
Tom saw the glow dim, "What?" he asked, for he saw
the ecstatic glow of understanding fill his love's eyes just
moments ago, when Tom declared Chakotay his mate.
"Voyager," Chakotay said, his tone grim.
Tom was about to say, so what, but it only took a
moment more before reality crashed in...B'Elanna and
Janeway...fuck! Then Tom got the first sense of fear about
this union since it began as looked up at Chakotay, suddenly
afraid that Chakotay would deny him, push him away and he
couldn't bear it. "What does this mean, Angel?" he asked,
unsure if he wanted to know as he saw Chakotay's eyes grow
dark with inner conflict.
Had Tom called him, Commander, Chakotay, or even
Tay, as he had last night, it would not have penetrated the
haze that Chakotay had been forming via guilt, but the soft
endearing term touched him and he looked up into Tom's eye
and saw the fear...fear that was not there a moment ago,
fear not at what others may think...just him. //Tom knows
the truth...why should I deny it,// he thought, finding
strength to face what needed to be met straight on.
Tom saw the swift change from withdrawn guilt to a
defensive fire and though warmed by it, still confused,
though he waited, knowing he would take his cue from
Chakotay...unless it meant not staying together, then he
would make his own plans, for he would not lose
this...Chakotay was his soul, his mate and that knowing,
that understanding gave his a fire and strength he never
knew he had, till he found it threatened.
"We tell them the truth," Chakotay said firmly. "We
accept our wrong doing and any pains they wish to inflict on
us, but..." he said firmly, decisively, "no matter what," he
added, as he reached for Tom's face and caressed it, then
moved his fingers down to Tom's shoulder, where his mark
was, "We stay together...we are one."
"We are one," Tom replied in a whisper, a vow, as
his fingers caressed his mark on Chakotay.
Chakotay's face suddenly filled with a ting of
redness...he was blushing. "Tom, I...um...well like I said
last night, I um, was never with a man, beside you," he
stumbled, his face getting redder.
Tom smiled, his love was so cut to behold at the
moment. "Neither of us has been with a man, so neither of us
knows exactly what to do or if we're not...doing it right,"
chuckled. "I'm sure we can figure it out together...if you
want?" he asked with a teasing smile.
"I want," Chakotay purred back, kissing his love,
his...pooka. //Tom is so huggable,// he mused. "And you're
right, we'll figure it out...all of it...together," Chakotay
added, a statement, a vow.
The end
(
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