The Doctor stood patiently against the unadorned holographic wall, watching every other person in the room with an acute and unrestrained interest. Crewmembers were rushing to and fro, carrying plants, moving chairs, calling up more furniture and deleting previous choices. Chaos reigned for a moment, then Neelix suddenly appeared in the middle of the teeming crowd, his hands upraised, and called a halt to the activities. Quickly consulting a padd, he systematically gave last minute instructions to each person within yelling distance, creating a semblance of control out of the original mess of the holodeck. The doctor gave an impressed glance in the Talaxian's direction. Until now, Neelix had done little more than frequently annoy the doctor during their voyage; he had never seen the cook's instinctive flair for organization. Perhaps arranging weddings was simply another of his cleverly concealed talents.

A rush of noisy conversation reached his ears, and he turned to the open arch at his back. Several more crewmembers were arriving for the ceremony. The doctor stood straight, ready to greet them with his most congenial smile. He felt fairly sure that this smile, chosen so carefully for the event, was the most appropriate in his databank. He had auditioned several expressions in the reflection of his office computer before settling on this particular one just prior to beaming to the holodeck.

Tom Paris and B'Elanna Torres rounded the bend in the corridor, and Harry Kim and Kes followed close behind.

Greetings! beamed the doctor. Welcome to the nuptials of Ansel Marnissi and Alex Saunders. Please come in and make yourselves comfortable. The ceremony will begin promptly at 1700 hours.

Tom gave a surprised look at the doctor, then pulled on his civilian tunic to remove any wrinkles. He chuckled at the same time. Why, Doc, you're looking mighty cheery this evening.

Thank you, Lieutenant. As greeter, I endeavor to begin the festivities with a fitting smile as each person enters the room.

Kes grinned, the gesture lighting her eyes. You're doing an excellent job, Doctor! But I wasn't aware that you had been assigned to greet at the door.

Ensign Saunders approached me just yesterday with the suggestion. I was pleased to take part in the ceremony.

B'Elanna cut in. And speaking of the ceremony, we better find a spot. It's getting crowded in here already.

Harry come forward, craning his neck for a quick survey of the room. Have you seen the captain yet?

Tom glanced swiftly around. Nope, I don't see her - maybe she's not here.

Or maybe she's hiding, Harry suggested wryly, noting how Neelix was still rushing around, giving orders first to Mr. Tuvok, then cornering Chakotay and thrusting a bright flower of some kind into his hands.

Torres turned to Harry. Why are you so interested in finding the captain? And don't tell me you want to talk to her about your emissions project!

Harry laughed. No! Come on, B'Elanna, I just want to see what she's wearing! He pushed them all farther into the room, a grin spreading across his face as he took in the colorful decorations. He draped one arm around Tom's shoulder and the other around B'Elanna's and led them into the crowd.

The doctor raised an eyebrow. Mr. Kim certainly seems to be in high spirits.

Kes laughed in delight. I don't think I've ever seen Harry this excited!

Yes, general happiness does appear to accompany weddings. Though I don't seem to understand this preoccupation with the captain's attire; there is always anticipation of the bride and groom's clothing, but not of the performing official's. But Mr. Kim's is the third query that I've heard already.

Kes laid a gentle hand on his arm. I think they're all just curious. Neelix wouldn't even tell me what Captain Janeway plans to wear for the ceremony.

Perhaps he doesn't know.

Perhaps, she agreed evenly, with a hint of humor in her voice.

The doctor glanced again at the gathering. His smile returned. But I admit that I am equally as excited to be here as the ensign. I've been reading up on weddings, you know. He looked proudly at her.

Kes smiled up at him. Doctor! I didn't know that you were interested in terran ceremonies.

Oh, yes, especially now. I've learned some truly amazing things since I began my research yesterday.

I would love to hear some of them.

You would?

Yes. For instance, do you see any particular ritual or tradition involved in this wedding?

The doctor looked again at the holographic room. He thoughtfully tilted his head. Well, no, now that I think of it, this configuration does not appear to be in the ship's computer. Most wedding, or bonding, ceremonies involve lengthy walks up aisles or around the gathered congregation - that tradition has apparently been removed from this wedding. However, I did find a few intriguing facts about the human psychology associated with the event. It seems that most weddings fall into five stages....

A solemn hush had fallen in the holodeck as Captain Janeway's voice rolled over the gathered crowd. She stood directly in the center of the room, Ansel and Alex before her, the crew ringing them in an unbroken circle of clasped hands.

How interesting! the doctor murmured to Kes, who stood between him and Neelix. The captain had retrieved a long length of pliable red ribbon from Commander Chakotay and now held it aloft for everybody to see. With a deft twist of her fingers, she made a loop of the wide material, then pulled it wider, creating a large circle. Two crewmembers came forward to take up either end of the ribbon as Ansel and Alex raised their firmly held hands above their heads.

This is not like anything that I've read about! the doctor whispered excitedly into Kes' ear. His eyes darted back and forth, trying to catch every detail. I see the inclusion of several honored attendants, but the rest is most unusual.

From Neelix's other side, Tom leaned in and with a grin said, Now, I've heard of tying the proverbial knot, but this - why it's....

Harry surreptitiously elbowed him hard in the ribs, and he choked on his words, issuing instead a loud guffaw that drew several curious glances. The doctor sent an annoyed look at him, then returned his attention to the captain.

Watching while Janeway prepared to lift the loop of ribbon around the raised handclasp, Tuvok suddenly had a stray thought ghost across his mind: This would not be a convenient time for an unexpected red alert to sound. As a Vulcan, he was unaware of the humor in that meditation.

And Commander Chakotay was far too absorbed in his own thoughts to notice the slight shift in Tuvok's stance. He hadn't removed his gaze from the captain since the beginning of the ceremony. She was stunningly dressed in black....

... to announce, in this company of gathered friends and loved ones, Ansel and Alex, joined yet free. Janeway paused while Lieutenant Tuvok and Ensign Frey pulled the ribbon away from the couple's hands, letting it fall to make a red stain on the white tiled floor. The captain continued with a smile, May I be the first on Voyager to wish that their united journey be long and happy and filled with life. Her smile growing, she took one of Ansel's and Alex's hands in each of her own and her voice rang across the holodeck, My friends, to Alex and Ansel!

The tight handholds released and applause broke out. Chakotay came forward to shake the couple's hands, his grin as wide as Janeway's. He laughed at Ansel's sly wink, then moved aside to let Tuvok and Frey in. The crowd surged forward then, everybody wanting to be part of the congratulations.

The commander pulled the captain away from the sudden crunch, and they stood against the side wall to watch. Chakotay sighed and Janeway glanced up at him.

Chakotay, you look downright delighted.

He peered down at her. Do I? Well, I should - I feel great!

Janeway looked again at the couple she had just brought together. Me too, she agreed readily. I think that's the finest wedding I've ever presided over.

Not to mention the only wedding you've presided over.

The captain tossed up a hand in mock surrender. Let's not quibble over details!

Chakotay's rich laughter rolled around the room, and a few heads turned in their direction.

But before anybody could wonder at the solitary corner the officers had so quickly worked into, Neelix yelled, Form the arch; let's start the celebration!

With a smile and a flash of something decidedly wicked in her eyes, Janeway grabbed her first officer's hand and dragged him to the center of the room where a line was already beginning to take shape. Janeway stood next to Tuvok, and Chakotay took his place across from her. With a mischievous glance of his own in her direction, he wove his fingers comfortably with hers and they raised their arms to form the top of a waving humanoid arch.

Come on, run! Tom Paris called, and a shout of approval sounded loud in the room. The newly married pair took hold of hands, kissed briefly, then began a sprint through the winding human tunnel. The shout turned into a roar that accompanied the wild dash, then exploded into more applause as the two burst from the other end, officially declaring the ceremony over and the beginning of what most considered the best part of any wedding....

Harry Kim pushed his empty plate back and shifted comfortably in his chair. He was so full he didn't think he could move much more than that. So, what was everybody's favorite part of the wedding?

The food, Samantha Wildman instantly responded. She delicately lifted another cheese roll from her plate and carefully bit into it. Cheese puffed out onto her fingers, and she happily licked it off, savoring each bite.

That's just because you're still eating for two, Tom piped up, grinning as he played cautiously with the baby sitting in her carrier between his chair and her mother's. He still wasn't convinced that the tiny girl couldn't do him any harm, but he was consciously making an effort to overcome his fears and get to know her better. But no diapers! he silently promised himself.

B'Elanna shook her head. No, I agree with Samantha; the food is wonderful. I don't know what Neelix did, but whatever it was, I like it.

Tom shrugged nonchalantly. Well, maybe Neelix had a little help in the kitchen this morning.

B'Elanna glanced at him in surprise. Are you saying that you cooked the wedding banquet?

Tom leaned back, his nonchalance shifting quickly towards unchecked smugness. I have many talents, Lieutenant, he responded suggestively.

Torres snorted, then after a thoughtful pause, her suspicious expression softened and she leaned closer to him across the table. For your information, Lieutenant, so do I. Maybe I'll tell you about them... later tonight.

Ensign Wildman coughed inelegantly on her second cheese roll, and Harry had to give her a handful of napkins before she could recover.

Well, Harry said, interrupting a very curious war of expressions going on between Torres and Paris, I liked the stool the best. All other topics were forgotten as instant laughter met his comment. Harry smiled. It's hard to imagine that when he created this ceremony, Neelix never considered the fact that the captain is so much shorter than Alex Saunders. There was no way she could reach his hands with that ribbon when they were way over his head. I don't think I could have reached his hands!

Tom was laughing so hard that he had to wipe a tear from his eyes before he could speak. Did you see the look on Captain Janeway's face? She was just... just... he paused, searching for the exact description, then settled for, stunned.

Samantha added, I don't think she knew what to do. It's a good thing the commander kept his head.

But wait, B'Elanna interrupted, her arms waving for their attention. I thought sure I was going to burst when Chakotay asked for a stool, in that way of his - all quiet and serious...

But completely desperate! Tom added.

Torres nodded, then went on, her words mixed with high peals of laughter. ... and the computer said please specify!

And he said.... Harry was laughing so hard he couldn't continue. He said -

Just give me a stool! they all finished together, laughing hard, their combined voices rising above the general din in the holodeck.

At the sudden increase in noise, Tuvok glanced across the room in the group's direction. He paused in his conversation with the commander to ascertain the topic under discussion. His eyebrow lifted, indicating a restrained show of Vulcan humor. He turned again to Chakotay. It appears that you are famous, Commander, he stated dryly.

Being quoted, am I? Chakotay commented in reluctant amusement.

I admit that during my initial tour of the room, I overheard two other groups talking about that occurrence. The Vulcan placidly regarded the commander. It seems to be the most memorable aspect of the ceremony.

I prefer if everybody would just forget about it, Chakotay said.

Tuvok gave him an inquiring glance. May I ask why?

Chakotay pensively regarded the lieutenant for a moment. Then he said, If you have to ask, I don't think I can explain it, Tuvok. With a forgiving pat on Tuvok's shoulder, he turned and headed into the crowd.

Tuvok's expression grew puzzled as he pondered the first officer's statement. I must confess that I do not always understand the commander, he murmured to himself.

Chakotay wove around the tables and milling personnel, his ultimate goal the food buffet. Before he could get near the line of people waiting to refill their plates, he came upon the doctor standing alone. He paused. Doctor? Is everything all right?

The doctor spun around, surprised. Commander! I beg your pardon; I didn't see you. I hope you're not offended.

Chakotay smiled softly. Imagine being offended at the doctor! Usually the medical officer was being offended by everybody else. Not at all, he said. But I was wondering what you're doing? Wouldn't you rather mingle than stand here by yourself?

Oh, no, Commander! the doctor quickly informed him.

Chakotay gave the hologram a startled look.

The doctor explained, You see, Commander, if I mingle, I won't be able to watch everybody.

Chakotay's startled expression deepened. You want to watch everybody?

Absolutely! I've never been to a wedding before. I didn't expect it to be so... emotional. It's fascinating! The commander's features remained uncomprehending, so the doctor continued. I'll explain... take that corner over there, for example.

Lieutenant Carey?

Yes. He's been sitting in that same spot for an hour now, periodically swishing his drink in his glass, but never drinking any of it.

Chakotay squinted across the room, trying to make out the lone form of B'Elanna's second. He could barely discern the man in the intervening surges of the Voyager crew. The doctor obviously had better eyes than he did. Maybe he's depressed, he finally hazarded to guess.

The doctor looked impressed. That's my theory too. Though I was under the impression that weddings were happy events.

They generally are happy events. But what causes happiness for one may not for another, Chakotay pointed out.

Oh. The doctor considered that for a moment. I'll have to think about that more at a later time. He pointed to the opposite corner from Carey's table. And over there is Captain Janeway.

What is she doing?

The doctor gave a puzzled shake of his head. I have no idea. She appears to be standing still, yet she frequently talks, though nobody is there to listen. This is the third time that I have noticed her partake in this activity just since the food was served. He turned to Chakotay, baffled.

She's checking the ship's status through the computer, Chakotay realized. He knew Janeway too well to think that she could go for long without inquiring into the safety of the ship. Though Voyager was currently in parking orbit around an innocuous, remote moon, with shields reconfigured to dampen any sudden sensor sweeps from other ships, still the captain felt a need to establish their condition. He turned to explain this to the waiting doctor, but a perverse humor suddenly took hold of him and instead he leaned closer to whisper, Perhaps she's losing her mind.

The doctor looked surprised and seriously concerned at the same time. Do you think so? he whispered back, now thoroughly intrigued.

Weddings sometimes do that to people, Chakotay informed lightly. Then he nodded his head and continued towards the banquet table in time to hide his smile from the doctor.

By the time his smile had lifted and he finished wriggling around all the groups of milling party goers and actually arrived at the buffet table, there wasn't much left in the realm of edible remains from the evening's feast. He sighed at his choices, then reached for a handful of safely recognizable nuts set apart from the main meal. He popped one in his mouth and glanced up. His gaze instantly fell on the captain.

She was talking to Kes and Neelix now, laughing at something the Talaxian had just said. Her hair fell over one shoulder and she pushed it back with a quick brush of her hand, then laughed again. But at the same time she appeared to be preoccupied. Her gaze continually swept around the room as they spoke. To Chakotay it seemed as if she was looking for someone. Tuvok, he guessed. He knew she liked to go over security protocols with him anytime they found themselves in an unusual situation. And a ship with no personnel on active duty certainly qualified as unusual, he mused. But he watched as she caught sight of Tuvok a moment later, and though she acknowledged the lieutenant with a nod, she continued to scan the crowd, still searching. Then her gaze came to rest on him.

Slowly she began to smile.

The next thing he knew, she had made her excuses to Kes and Neelix and was making her way towards him.

Now this is unexpected, he thought in surprised delight. His own wide grin answered her smile as she drew closer.

Chakotay, she said simply, as if she had finally discovered what she'd spent a lifetime looking for.

He grinned warmly at her, unable to help himself. How are you? He offered her his palmfull of nuts.

She took a few and distractedly nibbled on them. A little overwhelmed, I think. She looked around, indicating the meaning behind her words with a glance at the crowd.

He looked as well. We are an impressive sight all massed together. It's not often there's an opportunity for all of us to see each other at once. I think it's nice.

Nice? Tell that to my stomach!

Have you eaten?

Not yet. I was too busy talking. Have you?

He shook his head. No. I was too busy talking. They shared an amused glance, and the commander chuckled. And I'm afraid there's not much left. But I heard it was good.

So did I. Well, let's rummage through the leftovers - maybe we'll find something we can munch on.

They stood at the table, selecting first one item to taste, then moving on to the next. They dispensed with plates as they had only intended to sample, but their picking stretched into a standing meal. Occasionally one of them even found something worth sharing.

Here, try this. Janeway held up a piece of what looked like beef grilled inside a wilted lettuce leaf.

Chakotay took the offering, and chewed thoughtfully. Then his mouth puckered up. Whew! That was nasty!

Hmm. I thought it was pretty good.

Too salty. I don't like so much salt.

She cocked her head for a second, and a curious expression flitted across her face, almost as if she was tucking that bit of information away in her mind. Before Chakotay could ponder what that might mean, she pointed to a plate just out of her reach. What about that - It looks like vegetable something.

Mushrooms! Chakotay leaned over the table to pull the delicacy closer. I love mushrooms.

Something you inherited from your parents?

No. From the Academy. Mushrooms and onions, breaded mushrooms, fried, grilled, sauteed... I don't care - I like them all. Look, there's even a sauce. Try it. He offered a large slice coated in a thick white dip that dripped down his hand as he held it out to her. Janeway hesitantly leaned closer and he placed it in her mouth, careful not to let anything fall on her dress.

I like that! she said around her mouthful of food. She caught a stray drop of sauce with her finger.

You sound surprised.

She nodded and reached for a cloth to wipe her hands. I came across mushrooms at the Academy too, at all those -

Graduation banquets, he finished for her

Yes! But I didn't like them at all - too boring.

Not enough salt, he teased with a smile. Or maybe you just prefer the special Voyager variety, grown in space by magic Ocampan hands.

She gave him a grin of her own. Maybe.

Anything more that she might have said was cut off by a sudden blast of music, and everybody stopped socializing and looked up.

Neelix stood at the holodeck's computer, a wide grin splitting his freckled features. Okay, everybody, just thought I'd get your attention! We're about to start the dancing, so if you would please clear the center tables there, I'll conjure up the dance floor in a minute. Perhaps we can even convince Lieutenant Alex and Ensign Ansel to come out and show us a few steps from the old married folks. A ripple of laughter greeted that suggestion, and all eyes turned to find Saunders and Marnissi sharing an embarrassed hug at one of the outer tables. Neelix beamed at them in glee. He continued, So grab that partner of your dreams and hang on, because the fun is about to begin!

People rose to their feet, moving from the center of the room, and the tables and chairs dematerialized one by one, replaced by a smooth dancing floor. Groups of crewmembers clustered together as they waited for the music to start, and the conversation buzzed anew.

Chakotay snuck a glance at the captain. She was looking at the dance floor, then back at the food, then at the remaining tables, then back at the food again. Finally her gaze settled on him. His stomach did a pleasant little flip as she scrutinized him for a brief second. That look made him think that things could possibly get very interesting before the evening was over. Then she interrupted his thoughts. Would you care to sit down for awhile?

He couldn't have received a better invitation to help the night along if he'd asked for it. There's nothing I'd like better, he answered. And he smiled slowly.

She smiled back just as enticingly. Then she quietly said, You flirt.

Chakotay laughed, and gave her a fond glance. You started it, he mildly pointed out.

She grinned at their teasing. In a movement both natural and intimate, she placed a hand on his arm as she searched the room for a free table. Well, shall we?

After you. He gestured her towards an empty table.

Oh, let's take some mushrooms - just grab the whole plate. She reached for some drinks, then led the way to a back table sequestered against the wall, away from the dance floor. Chakotay followed just in time to notice the doctor peer closely at the captain as he passed by to finally mingle with the crew.

Janeway pulled a chair out for him, but her gaze was still on the doctor. What was that all about? she wondered.

Chakotay shrugged disarmingly, then muttered, Umm - you might get a request to report for a physical sometime in the next few days.

A physical? What makes you think that?

Just routine, I'm sure. He sat down and began eating to deter any further comments on her part.

Of course, she replied with narrowed eyes and an unusual touch of sarcasm in her voice. Calmly she sat down across from him, reached for a mushroom, then lazily inquired, Called up any stools lately, Commander?

Only in extreme emergencies, he responded smoothly. And for particularly short people.

I am not short!

That depends on who you're standing next to.

Janeway chuckled. Chakotay! Come on, be nice to the officiating official, she replied.

A Neelixism? he asked. She nodded. And speaking of the official, I wanted to tell you that I thought you did a good job.

She smiled at him. Thank you. Neelix spent the last few days coaching me on looking dutifully important and making my voice project through the holodeck.

You had a problem projecting? he ribbed.

Amazing, isn't it? He told me to pretend we were at red alert and the phasers were at the other end of the ship. Worked beautifully. She paused, then softly added, And by the way, thank you for the stool.

Chakotay paused in his eating to look at her and the corner of his mouth lifted in a private half smile. My pleasure.

Several hours later the party was clearly coming to an end. The honored couple had left for their new quarters, and most of the crew had retired for duty shifts or bed. Approximately twenty people remained in the holodeck as the cleaning began.

Tom and B'Elanna stood at the computer access panel, debating over a fresh set of music selections to help the cleaning crew along with their chores. B'Elanna was hotly defending the new swing period of the mid twenty-third century, while Tom kept punching in the codes for mellow jazz. Finally the engineer pushed Paris against the wall and held him there with an arm across his throat as she triumphantly set the computer to her preference. But Tom hardly looked defeated. Instead he spent the free moment where Torres' attention was on the computer to admire her arm muscles at close range.

From across the room, Harry Kim shook his head in slight disgust, though a smile snuck across his face. Sometimes Tom's antics were too much even for his best friend to take seriously. The ensign turned back to the other crewmembers seated at his table and reached out to take Wildman's wriggling baby from her carrier.

It figures she would sleep through all that noisy music, and now that it's time to go to bed, she's wide awake. Samantha grimaced in good humor at her tiny daughter. But she was pretty good for her first party.

Harry jiggled the baby, who smiled a toothless smile at him. Then without warning, she spit up all over the front of his specially replicated party jersey. Harry looked down in stunned disbelief at his shirt, now dribbling with mashed prunes and regurgitated formula. But after the first moment of surprise had passed, he managed to turn to Wildman and say, Oops.

Samantha grabbed an already soiled rag laying on the table. Oh, Harry, I'm so sorry. She usually screws up her face before she does that. She dabbed at the mess on his shirt.

Harry held the girl away from his front. Kind of like the red alert before she fires her torpedoes?

Wildman laughed. You could say that.

Lieutenant Carey stood and took the baby from Harry. I remember when my little girl was this small. She used to throw up regularly, every two hours, like a clock. Then she would just grin and eat some more. He cuddled the baby against his shoulder as he leaned back into his chair again.

Tuvok bent closer to get a look at the girl. I too recall moments like this with my third son. The doctors wondered if he would ever gain weight. Then came the time he decided to halt his unsavory behavior and keep his food in his stomach where it belonged. My wife was most content with him after that day.

Harry gawked. Is that really true - that babies this young can make conscious decisions?

The Vulcan handed another towel to Wildman. Certainly, Ensign Kim. The mind is an amazing instrument, even in one so young as Ensign Wildman's little girl.

That's incredible, Harry muttered.

Yes, intoned Tuvok, it certainly is. He placed his index finger against the baby's palm, and she obligingly wrapped her entire hand around his one finger. Then she pulled it into her mouth and chewed on it. Tuvok serenely gazed at her, but spoke to Carey. I am curious, Lieutenant; how old are your children?

The expression on Carey's face instantly shuttered as thoughts of his family crowded out his current enjoyment.

Tuvok! Samantha said in reproach.

Tuvok appeared surprised for a moment, then understanding lit his eyes. I do apologize, Lieutenant. I did not intend to cause you any discomfort by recalling memories of your family.

But Carey was shaking his head. He patted the baby absently on her back. No, Mr. Tuvok. I know you didn't mean any harm. It's just that I've been missing them a little more since all this wedding stuff started, that's all.

Tuvok sighed in a significant show of non-Vulcan behavior. I too would like to see my family again, he admitted.

Carey swung around to face the security officer. Do you miss them, Tuvok? I always wondered.

Of course. I am not without sympathy simply because I am Vulcan. My family is never far from my thoughts.

Carey turned forward again, his expression now thoughtful. You know, it's the sharing I miss the most. That's what makes a relationship really special. I always want to tell something to my wife, or show my son a holodeck program I think he'd like. He shrugged. It can get lonely in the Delta Quadrant.

Samantha finished her ministrations to Ensign Kim. She dropped the towel to the table and propped her chin in her hands in dejection. I know what you mean. I love my daughter, but I can't have a very invigorating conversation with a baby.

She sighed deeply.

Carey hissed a breath out and rubbed his cheek against the baby's bald head.

Tuvok stared at his finger still in the baby's grip, his face blank.

Harry Kim groaned. Not again! His sat up abruptly. A few days ago Tom was moaning that the wedding had ruined his swinging single days. I was missing Libby. B'Elanna was complaining about having dates. It's ridiculous!

Carey perked up. Lieutenant Torres has a date?

Yes - no! That's not the point. Harry sighed. The point is, we have things to share right here. With 150 people on this ship, there's bound to be things going on. So, let's... well, share them. Finished, Harry lapsed into an awkward silence. It was unusual for the cheerful Kim to get so exasperated with his fellow crewmembers.

Carey looked once around the circle, uncomfortable after Kim's mini lecture. Finally he hesitantly said, I guess I have something to share.

Harry brightened. You do? Good! What is it?

Well, maybe it's not sharing so much as something I've noticed, hedged the lieutenant.

Tuvok retrieved his finger and wiped it on the towel. Lieutenant, what do you mean?

Samantha's eyebrows rose knowingly. I think I can guess.

Without another word, all four of them turned to stare across the room. The captain and Commander Chakotay were still seated at the same back table, talking to each other, and completely ignoring the rest of the crew and the clean up activities.

They've been there for an awfully long time, Carey observed pointedly.

They danced quite a few times, Wildman said as she gave the couple a calculated stare.

Yeah, Captain Janeway danced once with Saunders and the commander danced once with Ansel. I don't really call that quite a few times. Carey shared his knowledgeable glance with Samantha.

Harry leaned farther across the table, attempting to get a better look at his superior officers. It was hard to tell from this angle, but it looked like.... Are they holding hands?

Samantha narrowed her eyes. It's hard to tell from here, and the lighting's not very good....

Tuvok gave them all a piercing glance. He shifted irritably in his chair. I believe I understand what you are implying, and I do not think there is any basis for your assumptions. Commander Chakotay and Captain Janeway are friends. It is expedient to the ship that the commanding officers be on friendly terms.

It doesn't hurt the commanding officers any, either, Carey said under his breath.

But Harry was watching Tuvok. What's wrong, Lieutenant? Is there a problem with the captain and the commander having a relationship?

Mr. Tuvok turned patiently to Mr. Kim. Command relationships are unwise for the sake of the crew.

Harry blinked. But why? I don't think it should matter to the crew.

Technically, Carey interjected, it's none of our business.

It is the direct responsibility of the crew to expect nothing but complete professionalism from those commanding the ship. Just as it is the senior officers' duty to always put the needs of the crew above their own needs.

Harry snorted. You sound like you're quoting the Starfleet officer's manual. Tuvok's expression became even more severe and he hastily added, Sir.

Samantha sat back and calmly wiped her hands once more on the towel, then smoothed the baby's blanket across her lap, preparing to feed her. I think that it doesn't matter what we think, she said and held out her hands to accept her girl from Lieutenant Carey.

Tuvok guardedly requested, Please clarify, Ensign. Carey and Kim also gave her their attention, waiting for her answer.

Samantha Wildman settled her daughter on her lap as she sighed, surprised that she had to explain it. I mean that Commander Chakotay is in love with the captain.

Tuvok gave her a look of disbelief, the most emotional response she'd ever seen him display. Carey laughed outright. What? he exclaimed so loudly that Harry was afraid the couple under discussion might actually look their way.

Samantha sent tham all a curious look. I'm just noting the obvious. All you have to do is look at the man to know. I've seen the signs before; he is so happy he glows. Nothing else makes sense.

Well, the commander is a pretty cheerful guy all around, Harry pointed out with another cautious glance at Tuvok.

Wildman shook her head. Not that cheery. Nobody is that cheery without a good reason.

Harry glanced once more at that back table. Perhaps she was right - judging by the look on his face, Chakotay sure seemed to be having a good time. He wished he could see the captain's expression, but she was turned away from him. I hadn't thought of it before, he admitted, but you might have something there.

Carey looked once again at that far table, then his glance turned sly. So, if what you say is true, do you think Captain Janeway knows?

I'm not sure the commander knows, she answered ruefully.

Tuvok interrupted their considerations. I believe that you are drawing conclusions from a falty hypothesis, Ensign.

Ensign Wildman paused to look contemplatively at the man. At last she smiled in soft sympathy and said, Tuvok, if you're afraid that a relationship between the captain and one of the crew would reduce her friendship with you, I don't think you have anything to worry about. Captain Janeway cherishes her relationship with you. I know that just by watching her.

Tuvok was about to protest that he had no such concerns, but then he was silent for a moment as he inwardly searched his thoughts on this new possibility. He was disturbed to find that he didn't know what to think. He glanced again in his captain's direction. I will need time to reflect on your words, Ensign, he finally confessed.

Carey stood up. Well, while you're thinking, Tuvok, let's help with the cleaning. I'll feel a lot better if I'm being useful.

That's a good idea. Harry stood too. Come on, Lieutenant. Neelix looks like he could use some help, Vulcan style.

Tuvok rose as well. And what, may I ask, is Vulcan styled help?

Ensign Kim could only shake his head and look helplessly at the center of the dance floor where Neelix was doing some kind of weird shimmy around Kes, who laughed in delight and clapped her hands at the Talaxian.

Now that's what I call becoming one with the music, Carey stated, impressed.

Then Tom and B'Elanna twirled across the floor, the part Klingon obviously in the lead, adding their own brand of entertainment to the chores.

Lieutenant Carey turned suddenly to Samantha. Would you like to dance, Samantha?

The request surprised the ensign. She looked at the couples on the floor with a longing surpassed only by her cravings for cheese. I can't leave the baby... she protested at last, though unconvincingly.

Carey strode back to her side, bent to pick up the baby, then held out his hand. Let's try it. I bet she'll love my dancing.

Samantha smiled. Well, all right. She allowed him to lead her onto the floor. The baby started singing in a semblance of time to the music.

Tuvok and Ensign Kim shared a glance of wonderment. I think we've all gone nuts, Harry muttered.

The baby's voice grew louder, and her high pitched screeching carried to every corner of the room.

The noise finally broke through the cozy isolation wrapped around Chakotay and the captain. The first officer looked up, suddenly noticing the emptiness of the holodeck. He gave the captain a surprised glance. I think we missed the party. He smiled wryly at Janeway.

Janeway sighed and sat back in her chair, slouching comfortably. The first wedding on Voyager. Perhaps the first of many. I'm still overwhelmed.

I think it was very successful, Chakotay said in encouragement. Neelix did a fine job organizing it.

I agree.

I can't wait till the next one.

Oh, Chakotay, you're not serious? When he only grinned at her, she groaned in exasperation. Fine, you can perform the next one and I'll call up the suddenly necessary furniture.

It's a deal. He held out his hand, and she shook it energetically. Although I don't think everybody will be nearly as interested in my wardrobe as they were in yours.

Janeway devilishly widened her eyes. Are you sure?

Chakotay firmly shook his head. It's not possible. I would never look as good in that dress as you do. Even Ansel commented on how much attention it was getting.

She laughed in satisfaction. Well, I'm glad, for Neelix's sake. He designed it, you see, though I chose the color. He so wanted a Terilian ball gown that I couldn't say no. But not...

The commander wrinkled his nose. ... yellow, he finished.

The captain rolled her eyes. Definitely not yellow! Ugh! I detest yellow. I think Talaxians see colors differently than Humans.

Chakotay's gaze settled on the still dancing morale officer. But I have to say that I think Neelix is the most cheery individual I've ever met, even with his poor fashion taste. The commander rose then, stiff after sitting in one place for so long. I need to stretch. His gaze shifted to the other groups still moving around the floor, dancing in incongruous pairings to Tom and B'Elanna's music. Would you like to dance?

The captain rose to stand beside him, but now she paused in bewilderment. She glanced up at him; he was looking down at her, a patient but inviting expression on his face. Still she pondered his suggestion.

He made a guess at what was running through her mind - she was trying to decide if dancing was against one of those notorious behavior rules she had established for herself. Though dancing with him was in reality no different than dancing with Alex Saunders or anybody else on the ship, to her there was a large difference. He was her first officer, and she was so bound by Starfleet code that he doubted if she ever completely forgot the protocol that accompanied their respective positions. On the other hand, as far as he knew, he was the only member of the crew who had attempted to breach her command reserve and approach the captain on anything remotely close to a personal level. Her hesitation informed him more plainly than words that his attempts were not going unnoticed. He was no longer just another member of the crew, and for that he was glad.

Captain, Chakotay said quietly, coaxingly, interrupting her inner battle, it's just a dance. He took her hand and teasingly continued, And you don't know when the next wedding might be.

The moment passed. Her eyes narrowed. It was almost as if he was daring her. A dare she could accept, or rather, hide behind. Then what are we waiting for? By all means, lead on, Commander!

He pulled her towards the smooth dance area before she could change her mind.

As they passed by him, Tuvok took a moment from assisting Ensign Kim in the cleaning detail to watch them. They both appeared to be thoroughly enjoying themselves. In fact, the captain and the commander looked as happy as he had seen either of them since entering the Delta Quadrant. Happiness was not an important state of consciousness for Vulcans, but he had spent too much time in Starfleet not to realize its benefits for the more emotional Humans. Again he wondered at Ensign Wildman's supposition. It certainly merited more consideration.

Hmm, he hummed thoughtfully, arresting Kim's attention. The young ensign joined Tuvok in his observation, and a slow smile crept across his face....

Kathryn Janeway took one last look in her mirror, then groaned. She looked awful. Worse than awful, in fact. Her skin was pale and dark shadows circled under her eyes. She looked like a ghost, or like she hadn't slept well the night before. Which she hadn't.

A restlessness that had settled over her soon after retiring from the wedding party gradually mutated to a nightmarish crescendo that left her sweating and exhausted and staring in stark terror at every corner of her cabin. Then, wide awake, her brain had turned to pursuing erratic thoughts about babies and weddings and families that chased each other around her mind for the remainder of the night, robbing her of any semblance of rest. To top it all off, she woke after only one hour of sleep to agonizing stomach cramps.

It was not a promising way to begin a duty shift.

Something had to be done, and soon. She didn't think she could command the ship in this condition. She touched her combadge as more nausea wove through her stomach. Janeway to Bridge.

*Bridge here,* Tuvok responded.

Chakotay hadn't arrived on the Bridge yet, either, she noted. Whatever malevolent Delta Quadrant disease she had contracted this time, she hoped it had decided to pass him by. Lieutenant, I'm not quite feeling myself this morning. You have the Bridge until the commander arrives. I'll be in Sickbay.

There was the tiniest pause on Tuvok's part, unnoticeable if one didn't know the Vulcan well, barely discernible even to her. *Aye, Captain,* he said before she could ruminate further. Janeway out.

Slowly she turned to the door and proceeded into the corridor. Her mind was still a jumble of half finished thoughts and distorted memories of her dreams from the night before. These mixed indiscriminately with several subjects she had periodically considered in the recent weeks, all forming a jumbled mess inside her head. She groaned again as she continued to the turbolift.

Foremost in the tumult of thoughts and emotions was her dance the previous night with Commander Chakotay. As harmless as the act had seemed at the time, now it grew in importance to become almost embarrassing. What had possessed her to accept his suggestion to dance? Had she lost her mind? They had been so careful to keep their instinctual barriers in place all evening, just as they had during Harry's concert reception. Mild flirting and teasing was acceptable, as long as it didn't go any farther. But was dancing considered too far? She didn't know any longer, any more than she knew why Tuvok hadn't stopped her if she was behaving inappropriately.

But really, what was one dance, she argued with herself. Hardly anything to get so flustered about. She was being ridiculous, reading things into the commander's simple proposal that weren't there. Wasn't she?

She wrestled with her conflicting thoughts, trying desperately to define those acceptable behavior patterns. The truth was, she simply didn't know anything anymore; she didn't know what she wanted, what was expected of her, and if she wanted to do what was expected. It's a good thing I'm not this indecisive on the Bridge, she chastised wryly as she finally gained the turbolift. Deck three, she requested, then paused again as another thought took hold; why had she used the word 'proposal' just now?

It was all connected to the wedding and the baby.... That was another thing. She had recently been entertaining thoughts of having a baby, which was ludicrous. The captain of a starship simply could not have a baby. How could she command the ship and be pregnant at the same time? And what happened to the baby after the birth? She couldn't possibly take time out from being captain to care for an infant. Of course, she spent an odd hour with Samantha Wildman's little girl, but that hardly constituted the amount of time and energy it took to be a parent. And having a baby meant having a relationship with somebody first, a relationship with a crewmember, since there was apparently going to be few other choices for the next seventy years, and that opened up another set of impossibilities. In fact, the entire scenario was flatly outrageous, and she accepted that. So where were these thoughts coming from?

An image of herself, very pregnant, rose unbidden to her mind even as she battled her stomach and the door to Sickbay came conveniently in view. Hmph, she grunted to herself. She could just see it now; Tuvok, you handle that enemy ship that's firing at us - I'll be in my ready room, having morning sickness.

It was too unnerving to dwell on, Janeway decided, so she pushed it all aside as she entered Sickbay. Her stomach gurgled painfully, and the possibility that she might vomit suddenly asserted itself. She suppressed it with every ounce of restraint that she had left.

The first sight that caught her eyes startled her so much that she forgot her stomach and came to a dead halt just inside the door.

Chakotay, dressed in his uniform but looking positively green, lay on a biobed, in fetal position with his knees practically touching his chin, as if to protect his stomach. He halfheartedly glanced in her direction at the sound of the door, but when he noted her identity, he roused himself enough to say, Hi.

So that was the reason for Tuvok's hesitation over the comm channel. Janeway had said she wasn't feeling quite herself this morning, which could mean she was suffering anything from a mild headache to a major need for surgery. Or even recuperation from a busy night. If Chakotay had made a similar statement for all the Bridge personnel to hear.... She could only guess what the crew must be thinking now.

But there was nothing she could do about that at this point. In fact, she found his presence in Sickbay rather amusing. Janeway had almost managed a weak grin in return to his greeting when her stomach lurched, reminding her why she was in Sickbay, and she had to clamp her teeth shut to control the rumblings. She crossed to his side when she thought it was safe to move. Hi yourself.

What are you doing here? he asked, then went on before she could speak. No, don't tell me - your stomach, he guessed.

Janeway nodded, then moaned and clutched the edge of his bed. How is it that we're getting strange ailments that don't seem to affect the rest of the crew? she asked.

I don't think this is any weird disease, Chakotay said. He gave her an apologetic glance, then confessed, Did I neglect to mention that mushrooms are a fungus?

She balked. You mean -

Chakotay nodded. Whoever prepared them didn't do something quite right.

But others ate them, and nobody else seems to be suffering any ill effects, she said in frustration.

The doctor suddenly appeared from his office, overhearing her last comment. The others didn't eat an entire platter of them, he pointed out ascerbically. He gave her a professional once over with a tricorder, then gestured for her to climb onto the adjacent bed. Well, I can't say that we haven't been expecting you, Captain. Your arrival is most timely, in fact, as I have just finished mixing a detoxing agent.

Wonderful, she murmured.

The doctor glared at her, but only raised a hypospray to her neck, then did the same to the commander. This should handle that fungus problem you have and alleviate the nausea. Janeway nodded gratefully. And next time, continued the doctor, his tone irritated, please show more restraint.

We promise, Chakotay moaned from his bed.

The doctor nodded. Very well. I want to keep you both here for the next hour for observation. So get comfortable. I'll check on you in thirty minutes.

When the hologram had once again disappeared into his office, Janeway turned to her first officer, then had to lay back on her bed in an attempt to mollify her spinning head. Chakotay.

Yes?

As soon as we feel better, remind me to demote you.

I'll make a note of it in my log.

Oh, the logs! Janeway fell the rest of the way against the bed. She groaned again and flung an arm over her eyes. I don't even want to think what Tuvok will say in the official logs.

Chakotay slowly uncurled himself so that he could see her. I don't think I know what you mean.

She removed her arm to stare at him with lifted brows. Tell me, did you contact the Bridge before you came to Sickbay this morning?

Slowly he nodded his head, then had to put his hand up to make it stop. Yes.

What did you say?

He thought for a moment. Something about not feeling well because I was up all night.

She gave another, more exaggerated groan. It's worse than I thought!

What, your stomach?

No, the logs! Janeway lay still and stared in dismay up at the ceiling, then looked at him, then back at the ceiling. She put her hand on her cheek and slowly announced, This morning I told Tuvok that I wasn't quite feeling myself.

Chakotay's eyes widened in understanding. And last night....

Last night, at the party, we talked the whole time, we practically ignored everybody else, we.... Suddenly she stopped and regarded him.

Gossip, he said, and that explained it all.

I'm sure the Bridge personnel heard every word - you know how they are, always listening to everything that's going on.

Like vultures, waiting for a succulent scrap to fall at their feet. He hissed a breath out towards the room, paused a moment to think, then turned to her. Now there was definite amusement in his eyes. They're going to eat this up, he predicted mildly.

A weak smile lifted the corners of her lips. Actually, it is amusing in a way. They're all out there, talking about what they think we did last night--

He finished, When what we were really doing was rolling around, groaning and moaning with the stomach ache from.... He grinned right at her. It's too bad we'll never hear what they're saying. Their version of last night has to be more enjoyable than ours.

The cramps were beginning to pass now, thanks to the medication, and she was able to chuckle. Oh, Chakotay, we both got what we deserved this time.

They were quiet for a moment, their gaze cast to the ceiling, but both of them trying to watch the other out of the corners of their eyes. Finally Chakotay decided to ask, Was it worth it?

Kathryn gave him a half smile, then shyly said, I had a good time.

He nodded once, a slow, soft smile of his own breaking out. So did I.

Chapter 9 || Contents