Survivors

The 'quick trip' to the captain's quarters took a little longer than expected. Just before they stepped out of his quarters enroute to the bridge, Beverly offered her lover a quick kiss and was quite surprised when Jean-Luc pulled her body against his, deepening the kiss. Several heated moments later Beverly broke the kiss.

"Jean-Luc," she gasped, "don't start something you can't finish. You know we're supposed to be on duty."

"Who says we can't finish this?" he asked, giving her a smug smile. "There are advantages to sleeping with the captain, after all."

"Mmmm, much as I would like to take that advantage, my love, I really do need to get to Sickbay. I have experiments to check on, patients to attend to, and a mountain of 'paperwork' waiting for me."

Jean-Luc groaned, "You're right...and I do need to at least make an appearance on the bridge before Will tries to commandeer the ship. Besides, I'm sure I have a mountain of reports waiting for me as well."

Beverly laid her forehead against Jean-Luc's and asked in a hushed voice, "Tonight?"

"Tonight," he agreed.

After one more passionate kiss, they managed to tear away from each other and head for the bridge. Moments later they reached the bridge, releasing hands and moving apart before the turbolift doors opened. Stepping onto the bridge, the captain descended the ramp, motioning his first officer to the ready room to hear his report.

Beverly descended the ramp and stopped in front of the councilor. "Deanna, I need a favor."

"Name it," Deanna replied.

"I asked Danielle if she would at least try talking to a professional counselor and she reluctantly agreed. She's holding back a lot of grief that she needs to deal with and I'm worried about her. If you have time now, Deanna, would you talk with her?"

Deanna smiled and took Beverly's hands in her own. "Of course I'll talk with her. I don't have another appointment for over an hour."

"Thank you, Deanna. She's just put Beth down for a nap and is expecting you. I should probably warn you that she is not looking forward to talking to a counselor and may not be very cooperative at first."

Deanna smirked, "Must be a genetic trait."

Beverly crossed her arms, "Ha, ha, very funny...now get going before she changes her mind."

"Yes, sir," Deanna winked then headed to the turbolift.

Deanna arrived at Danielle's temporary quarters, rang the chime and was granted entrance moments later by the occupant. She found Danielle resting comfortably on the couch listening to the computer playback soft, yet powerful music. Her eyes were closed and there was a wistful smile on her face. Deanna remained near the doors, waiting for an invitation to enter further.

"Hello, Danielle," she said in a soft voice.

Danielle finally opened her eyes and smiled at the counselor, "Hello. Please come in, Counselor. Can I get you anything?"

"Thank you, no," Deanna replied as she moved to a chair next to the couch.

"That's very interesting music you're listening to. What is it called?" Deanna asked.

"It's called symphonic rock. It mixes rock sounds, mainly electric guitars, keyboards and drums, with orchestral string instruments. This band is called Trans-Siberian Orchestra and originates from the late 20th and early 21st centuries. This was Jeremy's favorite music and he got me hooked on it, as well as Beth. Listening to it sometimes helps her fall asleep."

As the song finished, she called to the computer to end the playback and turned her attention back to the counselor. "So, counselor, time to get into my head?" she asked with a wicked grin.

Deanna shook her head with an amused smile, having endured that same look from Danielle's mother on countless occasions. "Please Danielle, call me Deanna, and I'm not here to get into your head. I would like to ask you a few questions, but mainly I'm here to listen to you."

Danielle eyed Deanna for a moment. "I'm sure my mother already told you about my reluctance in seeking professional help in this matter."

"Yes, she did," Deanna replied, "but I'd still like to talk to you. After all, you've been through a great deal in the past couple of days, as understated as that sounds." Deanna paused, "Well, since we're on the subject of your mother, why don't we start there. How did it feel to meet your biological parents?"

Danielle flashed a genuine smile, "Surprisingly fulfilling."

Deanna looked mildly surprised, sensing that Danielle was telling the truth. "Really? I would have expected some negative feelings from most people."

"Well, I'm not most people. I'm actually very happy that I met them, although I wish it could have been under better circumstances."

Danielle paused, hesitating momentarily before continuing with her story. "Deanna, I've been searching for my birth parents for a very long time. Growing up with my adoptive parents, I never felt like I belonged. I felt like I wasn't complete, like a part of me was missing. I wanted to find them and get to know them; it would be like getting to know myself. Once they revealed themselves to me, we had a long talk. They both admitted they had made some mistakes in the past and they made it clear that they want to be a part of my life."

"So, you don't feel resentful toward your birth parents?"

Danielle shook her head, "No. I don't. That may have been true a few years ago, but not anymore. I've always had Jeremy supporting my search and helping me come to terms with my feelings. Besides, once I learned the circumstances surrounding my birth, I couldn't help but understand my mother's decision to put me up for adoption. Being a mother myself, I understand how difficult it is to raise a child, even with the help of a partner."

Deanna sensed Danielle fighting to hold back her emotions, especially after mentioning her husband's name. Not wanting to push Danielle into releasing those emotions, she decided to try a different approach and changed the subject. "So, Danielle, we should be arriving at Starbase 169 soon to drop off the transport survivors. Have you given any thought to your plans once we arrive?"

Danielle sighed, "Not really. I guess I've been avoiding it."

Deanna leaned forward in her seat, "May I ask why?"

Danielle closed her eyes, "Because if I think about my future plans, I have to face the fact that my husband is gone, that I've lost the love of my life as well as my best friend, and I don't think I can handle that."

Deanna watched as tears began to roll down Danielle's cheeks, sensing her emotional barriers beginning to waiver. She stood up and moved toward the couch, sitting next to Danielle and taking one of the girl's hands in her own.

"Danielle, I know it's painful, but you need to face the fact that Jeremy is gone. It's the only way you'll be able to properly grieve and than move on with your life, for your own good as well as your daughter's. She's going to need her mother now more than ever." It pained Deanna to say those words but she knew Danielle needed to hear it and that she would have to face the harsh reality of the situation.

As Danielle's silent tears increased and sobs began to shake her small frame, Deanna wrapped her arms around the young woman, drawing her into her embrace. "How am I supposed to be strong for my little girl when I can barely find the strength to go on," Danielle's voice shook with her sobs, "I think if I didn't have her, and my parents, I wouldn't even want to try."

Deanna pulled away from Danielle and looked into her tear-filled eyes. "Don't say that! You are a very strong young woman and you will find the strength to move on, especially for the sake of your daughter."

Danielle looked down to her lap, her tears steadily falling. "It just hurts so much. It's especially bad at night, when I lay in bed alone, desperately wanting to feel his arms around me again. Whenever I close my eyes I can see him reaching for me and I hear him calling to me."

Her sobbing increased and she leaned back into Deanna's embrace. "I feel so empty, like someone's ripped out part of my heart. Every time I start to think about him I feel such pain in my chest and it's hard to breathe." Deanna decided not to respond and merely tightened her embrace around Danielle, letting her release some of the grief she had been holding back.

They remained like that for some time when Deanna heard the door chime. Danielle's sobs continued; her face buried in Deanna's shoulder. After obtaining the caller's identity from the computer, she called for entrance. Jean-Luc stepped across the threshold and then stopped, surprised at the scene before him. He looked to Deanna and spoke softly, "I managed to finish up early on the bridge and thought I would stop by and check on Danielle and Beth."

Hearing her father's voice, Danielle pulled away from Deanna, her sobs quieting a bit. Jean-Luc took a step toward his daughter, unsure of what he should do. Danielle made the decision for him, quickly standing and moving to her father. She wrapped her arms around him, hugging him fiercely.

"Dad," she said quietly, her voice slightly muffled as she pressed her face against his chest. He quickly and instinctively returned Danielle's embrace just as fiercely, nestling his daughter's head under his chin.

Deanna took that moment to stand and move to the exit giving the captain a sad smile and a soft 'I'll check on her later' as she exited Danielle's quarters. Father and daughter remained in their strong embrace for several moments. Before long Danielle pushed away from Jean-Luc and looked directly into his eyes. Jean-Luc was startled by the amount of anger her eyes held.

"Why?" she practically screamed, "Why couldn't you save him too? Why did you have to leave him behind?"

As her words stung him, her fists pounded his chest. Jean-Luc endured his daughter's physical reaction to her grief for several seconds before pulling her back into his embrace. She buried her face in his chest and spoke in a soft, muffled voice, "Oh god, it hurts so much. Please make it stop, daddy, make the pain stop."

Jean-Luc's heart broke as he listened to his daughter's tormented words. He had never felt so helpless. "I wish I could sweetheart. How I wish I could," he said as tears began to slip down his cheeks.

He slowly walked Danielle back to the couch and gently maneuvered into a sitting position, drawing his daughter into his lap. She seemed so young and vulnerable, her body still shaking with sobs, her grip on his shoulders never lessening. Jean-Luc slowly rocked her, speaking comforting words to her as her tears began to decrease. Danielle finally succumbed to exhaustion and fell asleep in her father's arms. He gently moved Danielle and himself into a more comfortable position and continually stroked her back and her hair, hoping she would be able to find some peace in sleep. He kissed her on the forehead and settled back against the couch.

While Danielle slept seemingly peacefully for the next hour, Jean-Luc spent the time deep in thought. He knew that most of the things Danielle had said to him were spoken in the heat of the moment and her irrational behavior was an expression of her grief, but he couldn't help but wonder if Danielle did blame him for the death of her husband. He thought back to when Jack Crusher had died under his command and the guilt he had carried for so long afterward. Dear God, he couldn't bear that guilt again. He looked down at his sleeping daughter, noting her resemblance to her mother. The longer he watched her sleep, the more determined he was to earn her forgiveness...again. He had lost so much time with Beverly because of the guilt...he would not let that happen again with his daughter. The strength of the love he felt for this girl, this child that had been created out of his love for Beverly, surprised him. He stroked her hair as she slept, praying that if she truly blamed him for Jeremy's death, she would forgive him.

The sound of the door chime interrupted his train of thought. He quietly granted entrance to the caller; trying not to disturb Danielle from her much needed rest. His expression brightened some as Beverly walked through the doors. She opened her mouth to speak but quickly closed it once she noticed that Danielle was curled up against Jean-Luc, fast asleep. She smiled at the scene before her, but her smile faded as she noticed the sadness within Jean-Luc's eyes. She moved toward the couch and knelt down in front of Jean-Luc caressing first Danielle's face, then his.

"Is something wrong Jean-Luc?" she asked softly as she looked around. "Where's Deanna? I thought she was going to have a talk with Danielle?"

"Deanna left some time ago. She and Danielle did have a talk. In fact, I interrupted their session. I left the bridge early and stopped by to check on her where I found her sobbing in Deanna's arms. I moved to her and the next thing I knew, she was in my arms and Deanna was out the door. Shortly after she left, Danielle pulled away from me and started yelling. She finally calmed down and then fell asleep."

Jean-Luc took a deep breath and looked Beverly in the eye as he continued. "She blames me for Jeremy's death," he said softly. "I realize that I shouldn't feel this way, but I can't help feeling guilty. Maybe if I had reacted just a little faster, we could have saved Jeremy, as well as the others that perished aboard the transport."

"Jean-Luc, you know that isn't true," Beverly said firmly. "You did everything you could to save the people on that transport. None of this is your fault and Danielle knows that. She is grieving and probably said several things she didn't mean. Until she begins to come to terms with her emotions, she will probably say many more things she won't mean. We're just going to have to be patient and show her as much love and support as possible."

Jean-Luc gazed deeply into Beverly's blue eyes and reached up to brush a lock of red hair behind her ear. "Thank you, my love," he breathed. "Having your love and support means everything to me." His hand trailed down her cheek, stopping at her mouth where he brushed a thumb over her full lips.

"I love you so," he said quietly.

"I love you, Jean-Luc. And you've always had my love and support."

Beverly leaned in and met his gaze briefly before closing her eyes and placing her lips against his in a soft kiss. Once the kiss ended Jean-Luc opened his eyes to once again drink in the sight of the beautiful woman before him. He smiled brightly at her and then reached for her hand, giving it a gently squeeze as he looked down at his daughter. Using his free hand, he brushed her light brown hair back from her face.

Danielle suddenly began to stir in his lap and she slowly opened her eyes taking in her parents' loving, but concerned gazes. She closed her eyes again trying to remember exactly what had taken place prior to falling asleep. *Oh no* she groaned. Not only had she fallen apart in front of both the counselor and her new found father, but she had said some terrible things to him as well.

*Why did I have to lose my temper like that? I didn't mean those things I said. Did I? * She paused briefly in her thoughts, shifting in her father's lap, knowing they were waiting for her to open her eyes and say something. *No, I didn't mean what I said. This wasn't his fault and trying to place the blame on him didn't make me feel any better or make Jeremy's death any easier. All I've done is hurt him and myself, and now it's time to face the music. *

Danielle opened her eyes again and sat up, turning to face first her mother and then her father. She gazed intently at her father's expression, her heart seizing as she watched him try to mask the hurt and the guilt that he was apparently feeling. She reached for Jean-Luc's hand not bothering to brush away the tears that were slipping down her cheeks.

"Dad," she whispered, "I'm so sorry."

He smiled stiffly, "It's okay."

"No, it's not," Danielle interrupted, grasping his hand tightly. "I said some terrible things to you that I honestly did not mean. I was feeling hurt and scared, I still am, but that's no excuse for how I treated you. I'm so sorry for what I did and I mean it when I tell you that I don't blame you at all for Jeremy's death. It was no one's fault and I realize that. I think I blame myself more than anything, but sometimes I let my temper get the best of me and I lash out at any available target."

Danielle averted her eyes from her father and nervously wiped at the tears in her eyes. It suddenly dawned on her how much these two people had come to mean to her in such a short time. She desperately wanted to hold on to the unconditional love they had offered her and was very fearful that she had lost it because of her childish tantrum. "I'm so sorry, Dad, please forgive me." She fervently hoped this wouldn't be the last time she would be able to call him by the familiar term.

Jean-Luc said her name softly and then reached for her, slowly turning her face toward his. Her eyes remained closed until he spoke her name again.

"Danielle. I'm not angry with you. I never was. I will admit to feeling guilty, believing there was some truth to what you said."

Danielle opened her mouth to respond but was silenced by Jean-Luc's thumb over her lips.

"Beverly and I spoke briefly, before you awoke, and with her help I've realized that I shouldn't feel guilty about a situation that was out of my control. I know you said things you didn't mean out of grief and anger, but I now know that you needed to say them, if only to get it out of your system. You needed to find some way to express your grief to move on with your life and find some closure...and for that I was a willing target. Your explanation has more than abolished my fears that you would continue to place the blame on me and don't worry about that temper of yours...I've faced it on numerous occasions already," he said, stealing a glance at Beverly.

Beverly glared at Jean-Luc and unceremoniously stuck her tongue out at him. Jean-Luc merely smiled and leaned toward Danielle, "Now you know where you get that childish behavior."

For the first time since he entered the room, Danielle gave him a bright smile. He returned the smile and pulled Danielle into his arms. Jean-Luc maintained his tight grip on Danielle for several moments before loosening one arm to pull Beverly into their embrace. They held on to each other as if their lives depended on it, tears streaming down their faces.

"I love you guys so much," Danielle managed to choke out amidst her tears and the overwhelming emotions. "It sounds crazy to feel so close to people I met only a couple of days ago."

"Crazy or not," Jean-Luc said as he wiped tears from his eyes, "That's exactly how we feel about you."

"I feel closer to you two than I ever felt with my adoptive parents...almost as if I've known you my entire life."

Beverly pulled back slightly, then reached for Danielle, tucking her brown hair behind her ears. "We feel the same way, sweetie, and like I told you before, we're here for you if you need us."

Jean-Luc broke in, "Yes, if there's anything you want to talk about, we will listen and help any way we can."

Hoping she would volunteer to talk about her qualms with Starfleet, Jean-Luc watched as Danielle took a deep breath and opened her mouth to speak...only to be interrupted by a shrill cry from the bedroom. Elizabeth was awake and wanted some attention. Danielle closed her mouth and smiled apologetically at her father.

"I'd better go get her. She'll keep crying until she gets some attention," Danielle said as she rose from the couch and headed to the bedroom. Jean-Luc and Beverly watched her retreat before turning back to each other. Jean-Luc pulled Beverly from her spot kneeling on the floor to the couch, or more specifically, to his lap. He brushed his thumb across her lips and pulled her in for a quick kiss.

"Jean-Luc, Danielle will be back any minute," Beverly said under her breath.

"I know, but I can't help it. I have been denied the privilege of being this close to you for a long time and I plan to make up for lost time every chance I get," he replied with a sly grin.

His expression quickly sobered as he glanced toward the bedroom. "I think she was ready to open up about her fears concerning Starfleet."

Beverly quickly glanced toward the bedroom, sharing her lover's expression of concern. She sighed in resignation, "Let's confront her after dinner tonight. We need to discuss her future plans anyway. I only hope that our efforts to help her don't end up pushing her away."

Jean-Luc flashed her a hopeful smile, "We won't lose her."

She returned his smile, "Have I told you lately how very much I love you?"

"Yes, but I'll never tire of hearing you say it. Say it again."

"I love you," Beverly whispered as she leaned toward him, lightly brushing her lips against his. Jean-Luc deepened the kiss, pressing his tongue against her lips. Beverly hesitated momentarily, aware of where they were, but acquiesced and opened her mouth to him, pouring her passion and love for this man into her kiss. Jean-Luc wrapped one arm around her waist and buried his other hand in her soft hair, drawing her closer. Beverly felt a burning desire grow from her center and spread throughout her body as Jean-Luc's kiss stole her breathe as well as all conscious thought.

That was exactly how Danielle found them when she entered the living room with her freshly changed, smiling daughter in her arms. Danielle stopped abruptly when her eyes landed on her parents, making out on the couch. * Maybe I should give them a few minutes. * The minutes dragged on and Danielle began to wonder if either of them would ever come up for air. When she observed her father's hand move from her mother's hair, down the side of her face on a direct line for her chest, Danielle decided it was time to interrupt. She cleared her throat loudly and stifled a laugh as Beverly quickly pulled out of the kiss and jumped out of Jean-Luc's lap, straightening her uniform. Jean-Luc quickly stood up behind Beverly, trying to control his growing desire.

Danielle smiled sweetly, "Should I give you guys some privacy?"

Danielle enjoyed the blush that rose in both their faces as Beverly tried to explain. "Danielle...I ...we were just..." she stuttered, growing even more embarrassed as Danielle finally gave in to her urge to laugh. Once she managed to catch her breath, she moved toward them, balancing Elizabeth on her hip.

"You don't have to explain. I was just teasing you. After so many years apart, you two deserve as much time together as possible. Hopefully next time it will be in your own quarters," she teased.

Beverly gave her a relieved smile, "Yeah, well, blame it on you father," she said nodding in Jean-Luc's direction, "he started it. Who was I to resist?"

Danielle just shook her head as Beverly took Elizabeth from her arms. "Hey, pumpkin. How is my beautiful granddaughter this evening?" Beverly asked. Elizabeth regarded Beverly solemnly for a moment before uttering a profound statement.

"Eat," Elizabeth said quite seriously, popping her thumb in her mouth, and then jumping slightly in Beverly's arms as the adults burst into laughter.

Jean-Luc managed to recover first. "Is that her subtle way of telling us it's time for dinner?" he chuckled.

Danielle nodded, "I think so."

Jean-Luc thought for a moment, "Would you feel comfortable having dinner in the observation lounge with the senior staff tonight?" he asked. "I think it's time they met my family."

Danielle hesitated for a moment, a look of concern crossing her face. "Are you sure you want to let them in on your dirty little secret?" Jean-Luc winced slightly at her choice of words.

"First of all, the events surrounding your birth are no one's business but ours. Secondly, in no way are we ashamed of you of your existence. I'm sure I speak for both of us when I tell you how proud I am of you and your accomplishments." He glanced at Beverly as she nodded her agreement. "Now, if you're ready, we want people to know you're our daughter, and a good place to start is to introduce you to the Enterprise family." He paused, trying to read her expression.

Beverly approached Danielle with a squirming Elizabeth in her arms and handed the child to her. Danielle said nothing as she took her child, brushing her light brown curls back and kissing her forehead. Turning her attention back to her parents, she smiled warmly. "If you're sure the senior staff can handle it, we'd enjoy meeting and dining with them."

Both Jean-Luc and Beverly exchanged glances. "What do you mean 'if they can handle it'?" Jean-Luc asked warily.

Danielle put on her most innocent expression. "Oh, nothing. I promise to be on my best behavior, try to keep my smart-ass comments to myself and I'll do my best to keep Beth from wearing most of her meal."

Beverly covered her mouth with her hand to stifle a giggle while Jean-Luc merely raised an eyebrow at his daughter. "Well, then it's settled. I'll contact the senior staff and have them meet us in the observation lounge," Jean-Luc said.

Around an hour later most of the senior staff had gathered in the observation lounge, now awaiting the appearance of the captain and chief medical officer. Those present stood in a casual group, speculating on the reason for this impromptu dinner. Deanna stood silently at the edge of the group, smiling to herself, having already deduced the purpose of this gathering.

"I wonder why the captain would extend such a last minute dinner invitation," Data queried.

"He did mention that he would be bringing a special guest," Will said. He looked over to Deanna, "Did he provide you with any extra information Deanna?"

"Umm, no. No, he didn't." Will regarded her with a raised eyebrow, sensing that she was hiding something.

Data interrupted his line of thought, "Commander, the special guest would most likely be one of the transport survivors since they were the last to be beamed aboard and the captain is not in the habit of extending such formal dinner invitation to crew members."

Geordi chimed in, "Good point, Data. Now, the question is, why would the captain host a dinner for a transport survivor that we'll be dropping off at Starbase tomorrow?"

Before anyone could address this question, the doors to the observation lounge opened and in stepped Captain Picard and Doctor Crusher, followed closely by a young woman carrying a child. The usual greetings between the captain and other officers quickly took place with each officer, except Counselor Troi, silently wondering who this young woman was. Once the greetings were over, the captain stepped over to the young woman, who flashed him a nervous smile as she passed her daughter to Beverly.

"Everyone, I'd like you to meet Danielle Taylor and her daughter Elizabeth. As you've probably guessed, they were both among the survivors of the transport ship. Unfortunately her husband was not as fortunate." He put his arm around Danielle's shoulders as he turned to introduce her to his senior staff. "Danielle, this is my first officer, Commander William Riker, you've met Counselor Troi, my second officer Lt. Commander Data, and chief engineer Lt. Commander Geordi LaForge. Danielle smiled and shook hands with each officer.

Once the introductions were finished, the captain took a calming breath as he quickly contemplated the best way to word the news that would surely shock his staff. He glanced at Beverly, who smiled warmly at him, giving him the strength he needed to continue.

"I'm sure you're all wondering why I've asked you to join us for dinner. The reason is that I wanted you to meet Danielle...my daughter." Jean-Luc reached over to grasp Beverly's free hand, "Our daughter."

Not a sound was heard besides the audible intake of breath after the captain's shocking announcement. The captain noticed their looks of confusion and with Beverly's help began a brief explanation, leaving out most of the more intimate details.

Will was the first to break the ice after listening to the story by gathering Danielle in a casual hug. "I'm so glad we finally got to meet you Danielle. I just wish it had been under better circumstances."

Danielle smiled and returned his hug, taking an immediate liking to this man. "Thank you," she said.

One by one the remaining officers greeted Danielle in a similar manner. Finally, the group gathered around the table and began the meal. The conversation began somewhat formally, but quickly relaxed as the senior officers regaled Danielle with the many adventures the Enterprise had experienced. Danielle was especially intrigued by their encounters with the omnipotent Q, as well as their several victories over the Borg, flashing Beverly a huge smile upon learning that her own mother had been in command of the ship during the destruction of a Borg ship. The captain was especially animated during the discussion...a welcome surprise for the rest of his staff.

Little Elizabeth remained surprisingly quiet during most of the meal. Deanna noticed her behavior and focused her empathic abilities on the child. Finding a lull in the conversation, Deanna turned her attention to Danielle.

"Danielle, is Elizabeth usually so quiet and attentive?"

Danielle looked at Elizabeth thoughtfully. "No. She might be a little nervous being around so many people. She's usually pretty active during a meal and ends up wearing more than she eats, as Dad recently found out," she said, throwing a wicked smile in her father's direction.

The other officers exchanged glances and smirks at the use of the familiar term in regards to the captain. The captain noticed their expressions and blushed slightly. "Yes, she seems to manifest the same behavior at bath time, much to her mother and grandmother's amusement," he said.

The group laughed heartily at his comment, enjoying this opportunity to see their captain outside of his formal persona. Even Elizabeth giggled with them, which brought Deanna back to her line of thought.

"See how she's laughing along with us? I've been focusing my empathic senses on her for a while now and I've noticed how advanced her thought processes are for a child her age. Most children at this age are learning quickly, but she seems to be beyond the average child. She seems to have much more complex and organized thoughts than are 'normal' at that age."

Danielle smiled brightly and smoothed her daughter's curls, basking in the praise of her child. "She's always surprising me with the depth of her understanding. She actually started speaking and showing advanced motor skills at a very early age. It was all Jeremy and I could do to keep her out of trouble. It must be genetic...according to my adoptive parents, I was walking and talking very early as well."

Deanna shared a smile with Danielle but turned abruptly to Beverly as she was almost overwhelmed by a wave of sadness and regret. All conversation broke off when Beverly quickly stood and excused herself as she hastened an exit from the observation lounge.

"Was it something I said?" Danielle asked, looking toward the captain.

He met her gaze and then looked toward Deanna, "Counselor?" he asked.

She sighed, "I'm not sure, captain. She seemed quite happy and content until Danielle's last comment. Then suddenly I sensed a great deal of sadness and guilt from her."

The captain sighed and stood, "If you will all excuse me, I think I should get to the bottom of this as soon as possible. I apologize for ending this evening prematurely. As he moved around the table, he stopped to plant a kiss to the top of Elizabeth's head and then Danielle's, squeezing her hand gently and giving her a reassuring smile.

Everyone was silent for a few minutes when Data finally broke the silence, "Query. Has anyone noticed a change in the captain since Danielle was brought aboard?" he asked.

The others murmured their agreement, peaking Danielle's curiosity. "Really? In what way?" she asked.

Geordi piped up, "Well the captain has relaxed some over the years, but he's been even more mellow over the past day or two."

Deanna interrupted, "What he means to say, Danielle, is that the captain has always been a very private person who hides his emotions behind a stoic facade. Geordi's right...he has relaxed a bit over the past couple of years, but over the past couple of days, he's been much more open, emotionally. I guess we have you to thank for bringing the captain out of his proverbial shell."

Danielle grinned, "You're welcome."

They continued with a light, easy conversation for a while until Danielle noticed Elizabeth yawning and rubbing her eyes. "Well, I'm sorry to cut this short but I'd better get Beth off to bed, not to mention check on my parents."

The others rose from the table with her as she picked Elizabeth up from her seat. Data approached Danielle, "If it is permissible, I will escort you to your quarters Danielle."

"Thank you, Data. I'd appreciate that," she said.

Danielle watched Data for a moment as he observed Elizabeth with interest. She chuckled, "Data, would you like to hold her?"

Data's head snapped back to Danielle, his expression reminiscent of an eager child. "May I?" he asked.

She laughed, "If it's okay with her, it's okay with me."

She looked at her daughter, "Beth, sweetie, is it okay if Data holds you?"

Elizabeth nodded eagerly, "Yes, mama!"

Data smiled brightly as Danielle gently lifted Elizabeth into his arms. "Hello, Elizabeth," Data said softly.

"Hello," she replied and then snuggled up against his shoulder, closing her eyes.

Danielle smiled, "She's pretty tired. We should get going." She turned to the officers that had gathered around them. "Thank you all for the lovely evening. I really enjoyed your wonderful stories."

Will spoke up, grasping her hand, "I had a great time too, Danielle, and I'm glad we were able to meet you."

"That goes for the rest of us," Geordi said.

Danielle clasped hands with each officer, saying her goodnights and left the lounge with Data and Elizabeth right behind.

Meanwhile, Jean-Luc had obtained Beverly's location from the computer and was surprised to find her in Danielle's temporary quarters. He entered the darkened quarters, where he could barely make out Beverly's sleek form standing near a window, silently staring out at the stars. He quietly made his way across the room and moved up behind Beverly. He watched her reflection in the window and could barely see the tears streaming down her porcelain cheeks. Jean-Luc slipped his arms around his lover's waist and pulled her tightly against his body, burying his face in her hair.

"Beverly, love, what is it? What's the matter?" he asked.

Beverly took a deep, shaky breath and turned in his arms. He could see her clutching one of Elizabeth's stuffed animals. She tossed the toy on the couch and returned to Jean-Luc's embrace turning her face into his shoulder as her tears fell freely. Jean-Luc tightened his embrace around her, reaching up to gently stroke her hair.

"Beverly, please talk to me," his voice betraying a portion of his anguish. He hated seeing her so upset.

She looked up into his eyes as he brushed the tears from her cheeks. "Oh, Jean-Luc," she began in a shaky voice, "I've missed out on everything...we missed out...we should have been there to see her first steps, her first words, her first day of school..." Beverly pulled away from him angrily, "But no! I had to ruin everything by giving her up!"

She dropped to her knees, sobbing softly, "I'm so sorry, Jean-Luc. I wasn't strong enough...I wasn't strong enough to hold on to her...to us...I'm so sorry."

"Beverly, stop it! Stop beating yourself up over something you can't change. I don't blame you for your decision and neither does Danielle. You've got to stop blaming yourself and find some way to forgive yourself." Jean-Luc knelt down and took Beverly's hands in his own. "Beverly, we have our daughter in our life now, not to mention a beautiful granddaughter, who we can watch grow up."

Beverly squeezed his hands and reached up to caress his jaw. "I know, my love, I know. You're right. I'm sorry. I don't know why I'm acting so irrationally."

"Nonsense," Jean-Luc said, "Better to express these emotions than to keep them bottled up."

Beverly smiled and moved her hand from her lover's cheek to the back of his head and drew him toward her. "I love you so much, Jean-Luc," she said, her voice filled with love and desire.

"And I love you Beverly, more than life."

Her lips met his in a sensual kiss, which deepened as their mutual desire ignited robbing them of their will to breathe. Jean-Luc's hand began to move up, blazing a trail to a perfect breast. She moaned into his mouth as he gently massaged the soft mound. She lightly scraped her nails across the back of his neck, sending a shiver down his spine.

A flash of recognition broke through Beverly's haze of desire and she reluctantly pulled away from him. "Jean-Luc," she gasped, desperately trying to control her breathing, "we shouldn't be doing this here!"

As if to illustrate her point, the doors to the quarters swished open and Danielle walked in with Data and Elizabeth. Danielle noticed two figures jump up at the intrusion and called for the lights. Standing there with her arms crossed, Danielle watched in amusement as her parents flushed with embarrassment, trying to regain their composure.

"Don't you two have your own quarters?" Danielle asked, not bothering to mask the humor in her voice.

Jean-Luc glanced over at Beverly, silently projecting his thanks at her impeccable timing, grateful that they had not been caught in a more compromising position. Danielle shook her head at their loss for words and turned to Data, lifting her sleepy daughter from his arms.

"Thank you for walking us home, Data," Danielle said smiling, as she leaned over to place a quick kiss on his cheek.

Data returned her smile, "You are most welcome Danielle. I appreciate you allowing me to interact with your daughter. Perhaps someday you will let me tell you about my daughter."

Danielle looked at him with surprise. * An android with a daughter? * "I'd like that Data."

"Goodnight Danielle," Data said, then turned to the captain and doctor, "Goodnight Captain, Doctor."

"Goodnight, Data," they said in unison.

Once Data had left, Danielle turned to regard her parents. "I'd better put Beth to bed." She looked directly at her mother, "Then we need to talk."

Beverly took a few steps toward Danielle reaching out with her arms toward Elizabeth. "Danielle, may I put Beth to bed?" Danielle regarded her mother for a moment, trying to discern her emotions. With the exception of red-rimmed eyes, she looked as if nothing out of the ordinary had taken place. Beverly's lack of emotional distress made Danielle even more curious as to why she had made such a sudden departure from the observation lounge.

Danielle shrugged, "Sure." She placed a kiss to Elizabeth's forehead and hugged her tightly before handing her over to Beverly.

Beverly hugged her sleepy granddaughter close and smiled warmly at Danielle. "Thank you," she whispered.

Beverly turned to Jean-Luc, giving him the opportunity to give his granddaughter a goodnight kiss before disappearing into the bedroom. Danielle motioned to Jean-Luc to take a seat on the couch.

"So, you want to tell me what's going on, or should I wait for Mom to return and ask her?" Danielle asked.

"We should probably wait until she returns, but don't worry, she's feeling much better now," Jean-Luc said with a smile.

Concern crossed his daughter's face, "She's not sick, is she?" she asked.

"No, not at all. She was experiencing some latent guilt and regret, nothing to be overly concerned about." Relief crossed Danielle's face as she settled back into her chair.

Jean-Luc leaned forward and took Danielle's hand in his own. "When Beverly returns, there is something else we want to discuss with you...regarding Starfleet."

At the mention of Starfleet, Danielle sat up straight, struggling to mask her panic. Before she could reply, Beverly returned to the living room. Danielle turned to her mother, desperate to change the subject. "Is she asleep?"

"Yes. She fussed a little while I changed her, but was fast asleep as soon as I laid her in the crib."

Danielle studied her mother for a moment as Beverly stepped around Jean-Luc and then settled close to him on the couch. "Mom, is everything alright? Did I say something to upset you at dinner tonight?"

"I'm fine, honey, really." She sighed, "I was a little overwhelmed when you mentioned your childhood and I realized how I missed out on watching you grow up...taking your first steps, speaking your first words."

Danielle looked down at her hands, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything."

"No, no honey. You have nothing to be sorry about. As Jean-Luc pointed out, you're in our life now and I'm happier now than I've ever been. In fact, I'd like to hear more about your childhood and experiences, if you feel up to sharing them."

Danielle smiled and grasped Beverly's hands, then reached for Jean-Luc's as well. "There's nothing I want more than to share my life with you," she paused for a moment in thought. "In fact, I may have several holovids and images that were put into storage after my adoptive parents passed away...if you'd like to see them."

They both smiled brightly. "We'd love to see them, Danielle," Jean-Luc said. He stopped and glanced at Beverly before looking to Danielle, his features softening. "Danielle, as long as you're willing to share, we need to talk about this aversion you seem to have for Starfleet." Jean-Luc tightened his grip on her hand when she began to pull away from him, her expression filled with fear. "No, Danielle, please don't pull away from us. Whatever it is, we will help you. We love you very much, Danielle, and your problems are our problems. Please talk to us."

Danielle shook her head. "You don't understand..." she began.

"Then make me understand," he said, his eyes pleading with her.

Danielle sighed, "I don't want to bring you into this mess."

"That's for us to decide, Danielle, and we most certainly do want to be a part of this," Beverly said.

Danielle looked down to their joined hands and closed her eyes, fighting back her tears, and failing. She looked back at up at her parents, tears streaming down her face. "Oh, Mom, Dad," she said quietly, "I've really screwed up."

Beverly tightened her grip, "Tell us honey, whatever it is."

"I don't even know where to start," Danielle sniffled.

Beverly reached up and brushed a tear from Danielle's cheek, "Start at the beginning."

Danielle sighed and took a deep breath as she began her story.

"A few months ago, Jeremy came home and told me he'd been chosen, along with several others, to take part in a covert operation on behalf of the Federation. He couldn't give me all the details since the mission had been deemed 'classified'." Danielle stopped and took a shuddering breath before she continued. "However, Jeremy made it quite clear to me that he wanted no part of this mission. From what he understood, this mission would benefit some of the 'Starfleet Brass', but possibly result in devastation for many Federation civilians. Then he told me that most of the personnel taking part in this mission wouldn't make it back alive."

"I told Jeremy to turn down the mission, but he said that telling Starfleet 'no' in this case was not an option. He basically had no choice. Neither of us had been very happy with Starfleet lately. Most of those in charge were...are displaying rather ruthless behavior...looking out for themselves, even if it means violating their most sacred oaths, including the Prime Directive." Jean-Luc and Beverly exchanged glances, understanding all too well Danielle's feelings toward Starfleet.

"Anyway," Danielle continued, "Jeremy and I debated on what to do right up until just before he was supposed to leave. I finally convinced him that we should just grab Beth and disappear...live out our life as civilians on some planet far from Starfleet. So we did. Jeremy found an unregistered transport ship that wouldn't ask any questions, we packed a few belongings and left."

Danielle stopped again and looked her parents in the eyes. "We left without resigning our commissions, requesting leave, or anything. Technically, Jeremy was and I am AWOL."

Danielle stopped again as the tears streamed down her cheeks once again. "We did it so we could stay together as a family. We risked everything to be together...and then the fates stepped in and took him from me, and Beth, anyway." Danielle's voice dropped to just above a whisper. "It's my fault, if I hadn't convinced him to leave, then maybe he'd still be alive and I wouldn't be in this mess."

Her tears began to fall more forcefully, but she continued with her confession. "Do you see now, why I fear Starfleet right now? If I end up on Starbase and am turned over to Starfleet, they'll find out who I am and court marshal me. They'll try to take Beth away from me and I won't allow that! I've already lost my husband and I WILL NOT lost my daughter too!"

Danielle finally gave in to her tears and broke down into sobs. "I've made such...a mess...of things!" she said between sobs. Beverly released Danielle's hand as both she and Jean-Luc pulled Danielle into their arms, trying to create a protective shell around her. They rocked her gently, caressing her hair and back, until she finally calmed down. Danielle pulled away from them, wiping at the tears in her eyes.

"I'm sorry I got you guys involved in this," Danielle said quietly, "That first night here on the Enterprise, I figured that I would somehow take Beth and maybe disappear once we reached Starbase. Then I met you guys and I realized that if I leave now, I might never see you again. Next to Beth, you are my only family. I love you and I don't want to lose you too." Danielle sighed and looked down to her lap. "I just don't know what to do anymore."

Beverly reached up, cupped Danielle's chin and looked directly in to her eyes. "Well I can tell you right now that you won't be disappearing...not from us anyway. You're our daughter, Danielle, we love you very much, and now that we finally have you back in our life, we have no intention of letting you go. Understood?"

Danielle nodded meekly at her mother, who caught Jean-Luc's gaze as he nodded in agreement. Jean-Luc thought to himself for a few moments as he considered his options. He was as determined as Beverly to help their daughter out of this mess. Finally, he cleared his throat to get the ladies' attention.

"Well," he began, "we'll be arriving at Starbase soon where we'll drop off the transport survivors..."

"Jean-Luc!" Beverly exclaimed with a flash of anger, clutching Danielle, whose features were filled with fear.

"Let me finish," he said forcefully, "Danielle and Beth, however, will remain onboard the Enterprise. I plan to call in every favor owed me at Starfleet headquarters..." he looked directly at Danielle, "and several of the 'brass' owe me big time. I have no doubt that we will have any charges made against Danielle dropped. I promise there will be no court marshal and you will not lost your daughter. If you wish, you may even be able to resume your Starfleet career, or you may want to begin a private practice...that's your decision. Now, as this process may take some time, we need a safe place for you and Beth to stay, until this all blows over." He looked at Beverly, "I was thinking perhaps your house on Caldos?"

Beverly smiled and nodded, "Absolutely. She'll be safe there and the house could use a temporary caretaker anyway. What do you think, Danielle?"

Danielle grinned through her tears, "It sounds wonderful! Thank you so much!"

She hugged both her parents, "I don't know what I'd do without you guys," she said softly.

"Just keep in mind that we love you, baby, and we'd do anything for you, okay?" Beverly asked.

Danielle nodded vigorously and hugged them both again. Jean-Luc finally stood pulling Danielle up with him. Beverly stood behind her daughter, her hands on the girl's shoulder. "We should be going, sweetheart," Jean-Luc said, "you're exhausted and you need to get some rest."

Danielle nodded and embraced her father again, "Thank you, Dad."

Jean-Luc pulled her back to look at her. * She looks so much like her mother * he thought. He smiled and caressed her cheek, "Your mother's right. We'd do anything for you." He hugged her close, marveling at how thoroughly she had him wrapped around her finger.

"I love you, Dad."

"And I love you, sweetheart."

Danielle pulled back and turned to Beverly. "I love you, Mom."

"I love you too, baby," Beverly replied as she hugged Danielle tightly. "Now, go get some sleep. We'll see you and Beth in the morning."

Danielle nodded and said goodnight as her parents took their leave from her quarters.

Once Jean-Luc and Beverly had made it back to his quarters, Jean-Luc began maneuvering Beverly toward the bedroom. Beverly stopped his movement and pulled his body against hers, wrapping her arms around his waist. "It's my turn to thank you for what you're doing for Danielle," she said seductively.

Jean-Luc grinned mischievously, "I can't wait to find out how you plan to show your appreciation."

Beverly smiled back, then softened her expression, "Jean-Luc, I didn't think it was possible to love you more than I already do. Then you go and possibly place your career and reputation on the line for our daughter, and I can't help but love you even more. You take my breath away, my love, and you will never cease to amaze me." Beverly pressed herself against his body as she leaned her head toward his.

Just before her lips met his, Jean-Luc whispered, "I love you, Beverly."

His lips capturing hers in a savagely passionate kiss cut off her response. She sucked his tongue into her mouth, mimicking the action they were about to undertake. Jean-Luc's hands traveled down to Beverly's rear, pulling her against his hips and deepening the kiss as he tried to get even closer to the love of his life. Jean-Luc began to massage the soft globes under his hands as Beverly returned the favor.

Beverly began moving her hips against Jean-Luc's desire causing them both to moan and break the kiss. Beverly continued the movement of her hips and threw her head back in pleasure as his desire brushed against her heated center. Jean-Luc took the opportunity to blaze a trail of heated kisses over Beverly's throat to her collarbone. He suddenly pulled away, causing Beverly to whimper at the loss of his warm body against hers. She found herself being directed toward the bedroom, somehow shedding their clothing through a haze of desire.

Jean-Luc gently laid his lover's beautifully naked body back on the bed and covered her with his firm naked form. All thoughts of taking the time to tease and pleasure each other vanished as desire and urgency rushed to the forefront.

"Jean-Luc!" Beverly cried out as he immediately sank into her heat.

Beverly captured his mouth in another searing kiss as she deftly rolled them both over and settled across Jean-Luc's hips. He slowly moved his hands from her waist up to her perfect breasts massaging them briefly before trailing his hands down to her nub of pleasure and stroked her a few times, sending her over the edge. Beverly threw her head back, waves of intense pleasure ripping through her body as her internal muscles clamped down on his member.

Jean-Luc called on his discipline and controlled himself through Beverly's orgasm. Once she had come down from climax, he massaged her breasts again and began thrusting up into her as she met his thrusts with her hips. Soon, Jean-Luc began to increase the pace as his moans and shouts of pleasure rang through the bedroom. Beverly was once again thrusting down on him, nearing her climax as she voiced her pleasure.

"Yes! Faster, Jean-Luc! Oh, Yes!" she screamed.

The pace grew faster and more intense as their bodies slammed together over and over again. Finally, Beverly reached the climax again and screamed out her pleasure once more; arching her back as pleasure so intense it was almost painful ripped through her body.

Jean-Luc thrust up into Beverly once more before succumbing to his pleasure and releasing a torrent of fire within her as he cried out to her. Beverly collapsed against his heaving chest, completely spent and filled with love. No one had ever made her feel so loved, physically and emotionally, as Jean-Luc had. Jean-Luc hugged Beverly tightly against his chest, stroking her back as they both struggled to regain normal breathing. Jean-Luc looked down toward the crown of red, resting again his chest. He thanked the powers that be for reuniting him with this passionate woman. He loved her more than life and she ignited a fire within him that no other woman could. She had unknowingly granted him his secret wish by giving him a child, even though it took many years for this unorthodox little family to come together. The more he thought about his family, the more he wanted to make it official.

His train of thought was interrupted as Beverly turned her head and placed a soft kiss to his firm chest. She looked into Jean-Luc's eyes and smiled brightly at him.

"Oh, Jean-Luc, that was fantastic!"

His reply was to place a soft, loving kiss to her lips.

"Beverly, I love you very much and I want to ask you something." He looked directly into her bright eyes and grasped her hand.

"Beverly, will you marry me?" he asked quietly.

"Yes," she replaced immediately, much to his surprise.

"Really? I assumed you would take a moment to consider the proposition," his voice filled with amusement.

"Jean-Luc, I have loved you for a very long time and nothing would make me happier than to be your wife," her voice was filled with love.

Jean-Luc smiled and brushed a lock of hair behind my ear, "Thank you, my love. I only hope I can make you half as happy as you've made me."

They shared a brief kiss filled with happiness and love then snuggled up together as they both fell into a contented sleep.

The Enterprise arrived at Starbase 169 as scheduled, leaving behind all but two survivors from the transport ship. No one questioned the reason why they had remained onboard...or the Enterprise's sudden detour to Caldos. Beverly had contacted Governor Maurturin to inform him that her daughter and granddaughter would be staying in her house temporarily. Once the governor had overcome his initial shock in learning of this existence of Danielle and Elizabeth, he assured Beverly that they would be safe on Caldos. Beverly also requested that the girls be given their privacy and to downplay their presence on the colony.

In the meantime, Danielle packed up the meager possessions they had collected on the Enterprise and prepared herself and her daughter for transport down to Caldos. Several members of the senior staff stopped by to bid their farewells to Danielle and Elizabeth. Danielle knew she would genuinely miss these people. They had treated her like family. She had an especially difficult time saying goodbye to Data...she had never had an opportunity to console a sobbing android before.

At last, Danielle and her daughter were ready to transport to the planet. They were escorted to the transporter room by her parents and all beamed down in front of Beverly's house. They entered the house and Beverly took them on a brief tour. Although there was a thin layer of dust covering most of the furniture, the house was in relatively good condition. They spent some time opening windows and cleaning the house, while Elizabeth played happily on the floor.

Unfortunately, the dreaded moment came when it was time for the Enterprise to break orbit. Jean-Luc returned from the kitchen where he had made some small repairs to the replicator. As he entered the living room, he found Beverly standing silently in the doorway, watching Danielle, who had joined Elizabeth on the floor. He slipped his arms around Beverly's waist and pulled her into a tight embrace. Beverly leaned into him, her eyes still glued to the scene in front of her.

"Oh, Jean-Luc, I'm going to miss them so much," she sighed.

"I know, my love," he replied softly, "I will too. But this arrangement is only temporary...just until we straighten out the situation with Starfleet. In no time, Danielle and Beth will be back, and a permanent part of our life."

Beverly leaned closer to Jean-Luc and shared a sweet kiss before they pulled apart and moved toward Danielle and Elizabeth. Danielle noticed their approach and stood to meet them.

"I guess this is it," she said, choking back the sudden urge to cry.

Beverly made no attempt to hold back her own tears as she drew Danielle into a desperate hug.

"Don't worry, Mom, we'll be okay," Danielle managed to say as she finally gave in to her tears.

"I know, baby, I know. I'm just going to miss you, that's all," Beverly said as she reluctantly released her daughter. "You'll be back in no time and in the meantime, you contact us on a regular basis to let us know how you're doing, ok?"

"I promise," she said and hugged Beverly again. "I love you, Mom," Danielle whispered.

"I love you too, sweetie."

Danielle then turned to Jean-Luc as Beverly picked up Elizabeth. "Dad", she said softly, "Thank you for everything. I'm going to miss you." She smiled, "And Beth is going to miss bath time with you."

Jean-Luc chuckled and pulled his daughter into his arms. "I'm going to miss bath time too. Most of all, I'm going to miss the two of you. Please take care of yourself, Danielle, and stay in contact with us."

She stepped back to look at his face. His strong feature had softened and his eyes were brimming with unshed tears. Danielle brushed at her father's cheek as a solitary tear made its escape.

"I promise, Dad, as long as you do the same, and take care of Mom for me too."

"Always. I love you sweetheart," he said, drawing her in for another hug.

"I love you too, Dad," she said.

Danielle looked over to her mother, holding Elizabeth on her hip. "Beth are you going to say good-bye to your grandparents?" she asked.

Elizabeth laid her head on Beverly's shoulder and grasped at a lock or red hair. "Nana," she said simply.

Beverly laughed through her tears and hugged the little girl tighter brushing a light kiss on her forehead. She handed Elizabeth over to Jean-Luc so he could say his good-bye. Jean-Luc hugged the little girl tighter and kissed her cheek.

"Goodbye, sweetheart. Take good care of your mother."

"Bye, Papa," she sweetly, prompting him to smile. Jean-Luc finally released Elizabeth, handing her back to Danielle. She shifted her daughter to her hip and gazed intently at her parents.

"So, you guys will wait until I get back before you get married, right?" she asked innocently.

They both looked surprised, "How did you know?" Jean-Luc asked.

Danielle laughed at their expressions, "It's written all over your faces. You two are glowing."

Beverly shook her head in amusement, "Of course we'll wait. I can't get married without my matron of honor there...that is, if you're interested."

"What kind of question is that? Of course I'm interested! Wild horses couldn't keep me away!" Danielle said excitedly as she embraced her mother once again.

"Well, I definitely have something to look forward to now," Danielle said.

Beverly pulled away and looked at her daughter's face, "Don't worry, sweetheart. It shouldn't take long to get everything straightened out and then you'll be back in no time. In the meantime, I'll be contacting you regularly to check on you, as well as sharing wedding plans. I also want you to think about what you want to do after the situation is resolved...rejoin Starfleet, start you own practice, teach...whatever you desire."

Jean-Luc stepped in, placing an arm around Beverly's shoulders. "Beverly, it's time to leave. The Enterprise is ready to leave orbit and we should probably be aboard."

Beverly nodded as her tears returned. She hugged her daughter and granddaughter again and stepped back as Jean-Luc did the same. He then joined Beverly and called for transport back to the ship.

"Bye, sweetie," Beverly said.

"We love you both," Jean-Luc said.

Danielle waved at them as they began to dematerialize, "Good-bye, we love you too!"

Back on the Enterprise, Jean-Luc and Beverly returned to their shifts, trying to keep their minds on work, although Jean-Luc spent most of his shift in communication with Starfleet as he began the task of clearing his daughter's name and record. Having made what progress he could for the day, Jean-Luc returned to his quarters where he found Beverly asleep on his couch. He watched her for a few moments, taking in her appearance. She was still in her uniform, although she had shed her lab coat, which was draped over a chair. Her vibrant red hair fell across her face, shadowing her features from his gaze. He did notice a crease in her brow, which grew deeper as she suddenly shifted her sleep. She was not sleeping soundly. Jean-Luc moved toward the couch, and gently shook her awake.

"Jean-Luc?" she stretched and looked up at him. "What time is it?"

"It's almost 1900 hours. How long have you been here?"

"A little over an hour I guess." She yawned and said up. "Deanna appeared in Sickbay just as my shift ended. I'm sure she just wanted to see how I'm holding up since leaving Danielle on Caldos, but I wasn't in the mood to talk just yet and I escaped to your quarters. I figured she wouldn't come after me here."

Jean-Luc chuckled as he sat down next to her on the couch, putting his arm around her as she snuggled into his embrace. "Good thinking...so, how are you holding up, my love?"

Beverly sighed and closed her eyes, "I'm okay, I guess. Just a little tired of saying 'good-bye' to my children." She paused, "With Wesley, it wasn't so much his leaving that bothered me...all children grow up and leave the nest. What bothered me was the fact that he was leaving to travel to other dimensions and planes of existence. With Danielle, I never saw her grow up and we had so little time with her."

Beverly closed her eyes and inhaled her lover's scent, feeling safe and secure in his arms. "I am comforted by the fact that I know where Danielle is and that she'll be back with us soon. Although, even a couple of months will feel like an eternity," she said softly.

Jean-Luc hugged her body tightly to her. "I know, love. I miss her too."

Beverly returned his embrace and then pulled back to look at his face. "I realize that there were very few options, but I wish we didn't have to leave her alone so soon. She's just lost her husband and is very vulnerable right now. She needs her family right now...she needs us, Jean-Luc, and we need her."

He sighed, "I know, Beverly, but I didn't want her and Beth caught in the middle of this. If she had remained, there is a chance that Starfleet could take her into custody, and remove Beth from her care, until the charges are dropped." He drew her back into his embrace, "No, love, it's better that she stays on Caldos, safely tucked away from this."

Beverly buried her face against his chest and spoke in a muffled voice, "I know, I know, you're right. But it doesn't make it any easier."

Jean-Luc bent his head and kissed the top of her head. "Alright, enough of this. Danielle and Beth will be back before you know it and in the meantime, you a have wedding to plan."

Beverly looked up sharply, "What do you mean by that? I'm not planning this wedding by myself!"

Jean-Luc smiled mischievously, "Of course not, love...I'm sure Deanna will help you."

"Very funny, Jean-Luc. You will have to at least help make some decisions."

"Alright, alright. Well if you plan to have Deanna's help, you do realize we'll have to tell her and the others about the wedding. Are you ready to tell them?"

Beverly snuggled up against him, "No, not yet. Once we tell them, we won't have a moment's peace. I want you to myself a little while longer. Besides, I'm sure Deanna will figure it out soon enough...when she senses why I'm so deliriously happy."

"Then it's settled, we'll wait awhile on the announcement. See, I am helping with the decision-making process."

Beverly laughed and launched a playful slap at her lover. Jean-Luc easily caught her hand and pulled her body against his. He smiled and captured her mouth in a passionate kiss, filled with hope and promise for a happy future.

The End (?)

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