by Jaeti
---

Yet another installment in the challenge of having Janeway "do the crew".

Poor Kathryn, she tries so hard to stay official, and prurient minds keep making her fool around. But it's just so darn much fun!

As usual, this probably has too much smut for story freaks, and too much story for smut freaks. So sue me -- it appears to be how I write 'em. This is not to be taken seriously. . . well, except for the Tom/Harry/B'Elanna stuff. . . that relationship is insisting on creeping into everything these days. This story does contain sex among various combinations of consenting adults, and so is not for children, congressman, or closed minds. As Mozart said of "Figaro" -- this is just a frolic. . . so come play with me. Oh -- there is a reference to an earlier story, "The Captain's Gift" though you certainly don't need to have read it to understand this one.

Oh yeah, Paramount owns these characters, and what I choose to do with them belongs to me.
---

Kathryn Janeway shifted her pack to her other shoulder, took a swallow of water from the canteen at her hips, and continued up the winding path. The day was warm, but a soft breeze prevented it from being uncomfortably hot. The scents of evergreens and flowers were everywhere, and the sun shone down through a dark, almost purple sky. It was a beautiful and serene place and Janeway thought to herself,

"This is the most. . . boring shore leave I've ever taken." With a sigh, she dropped any pretense of enjoyment and settled herself under a tree for a good sulk.


Two weeks before, she and Chakotay had been sitting in her ready room going over supply reports when her com badge beeped.

"Neelix to Captain Janeway. Do you have a minute?"

Glad for any diversion from the dry reports, even if that diversion was Neelix, Janeway pushed the padd aside. "Commander Chakotay and I are in my ready room going over reports. But I'm sure we can take a break. Is it something that can be discussed up here?"

"Why, yes it is - I'll be right up." and within moments, he had joined the two in the wide-backed chairs of the ready room.

"Captain, I've noticed that we are passing within range of Catarna. . . in particular, Catarna V. Have you thought about making a stop for supplies?" Before she could answer, he was rushing on. "Because if you are, I can't think of a better place than Catarna. Captain, it is a beautiful world, and its people are very welcoming to strangers who come for trade, or for recreation."

Chakotay perked up and said, "Recreation? What kind of recreation?"

"Oh. . . well. . . anything you like really. There are several continents on the planet, and most are replete with beautiful cities, rich cultures, and wonderful food. Then, there's Sharbithia, which is completely uninhabited. The Catarnans have left it undeveloped for the enjoyment of those who enjoy exploring, hiking, swimming, and spending time in the wilderness."

Chakotay leaned forward, elbows on his knees. "Mr. Neelix, you seem very anxious to sell us on a visit to this planet. You wouldn't happen to have, um, 'friends' there, would you?"

Janeway had to catch the corners of her mouth in her teeth to prevent a grin from escaping. In the past, Neelix' "friends" had spelled trouble for Voyager - invariably turning out to be customers he had cheated, or traders with shady deals to offer.

"Oh no, Commander, I don't know anyone on Catarna. . . at least I don't think so. I just know the planet's reputation, and I know that the crew has been between shore leaves for a long time. And I wouldn't mind it myself -- having a meal that I didn't have to cook first."

Chakotay turned to look at her. "Well, Captain? It does sound like a perfect place for leave. . . with enough variety to please everyone. And it would be nice to feel a sun on my face."

Janeway looked from one pair of wistful eyes into the other, then threw up her hands in mock surrender. "All right, you two, I can tell when I'm outgunned! We can spare a couple of weeks. Mr. Neelix, why don't you give the coordinates to Paris. It sounds like we're going on vacation." And warmed by Chakotay's grin, she went to the desk to call up rosters for shore leave.

Janeway had chosen the second week of their two-week stay for her own shore time, and spent the first week exploring her ship from top to bottom. She had always been a captain who was in tune with her ship, but out here in the Delta Quadrant, that little personality quirk had become a necessary survival technique. With no starbases for repairs, and with no guaranteed source of spare parts, it was vital that she know Voyager intimately, and be ready with contingency plans should systems fail. It was that very knowledge which had allowed the ship to survive many battles and disasters that normally would have had them dry-docked for months.

B'Elanna Torres studied Janeway out of the corner of her eye. This week had been intense, exhausting, frustrating and exhilarating. They had crawled through Jefferies tubes, run diagnostics, created mock- emergencies and solutions to same, and argued far into the night about gel-pack renewal, warp coil efficiency, and shuttle maintenance. From the beginning of this journey, she had respected Janeway's mind -- at once methodical and creative. Now she had come to realize how much she liked this woman. . . and how much she enjoyed these times when the two of them were able to spend long hours focused on the ship they both loved. . . and depended upon for their daily survival.

"Well B'Elanna, I think that does it. She's as tight as the two best scientists in this quadrant can make her." Janeway turned and held out her right hand to her Chief Engineer. They shook hands solemnly, then grinned at each other.

"Shall we grab some dinner to celebrate? Neelix isn't back yet, so we should be able to get something edible."

Janeway shook her head at the invitation. "Thanks, but I think I'd better grab some soup and start packing. My leave begins in 10 hours and I want to be ready."

Torres gathered up the last of the equipment and followed the Captain to the lift. "What are your plans for leave?"

Janeway shook her head. "I don't have any fixed plans, though I know I'm headed for the wilderness continent. I've always enjoyed my solitude while on leave -- it makes a change from my time on the ship."

B'Elanna looked surprised. "You don't strike me as the camping-and- wilderness type."

Janeway chuckled. "No, I wouldn't say that I am. I carry all of the creature comforts with me; I would've made a lousy pioneer." With that, the lift doors opened and with a quick smile, Janeway strode down the corridor towards her quarters.

Later that evening, Janeway was putting the last of her gear in the anti-grav bag. Chakotay had been by earlier to regale her with the beauties of the planet, and had advised her on some additional supplies to take. He looked rested and happy, and she felt a twinge of regret that they had not arranged to spend this leave together. But Tuvok, who never asked for leave, had been thrilled with the libraries on Catarna, and had not been at all perturbed when she suggested he take both weeks to peruse them for any information that could help them in their search for a way back to the Alpha Quadrant. That left she and Chakotay with split leaves. . . and he, at least, had benefited from the solitude.

She snapped the lid closed with a sigh, just as her door chimed. Thinking that it was Chakotay with "one more thing" she had to take, she was surprised when she turned to see B'Elanna standing in the doorway.

"Why B'Elanna, come in. I thought you would have left by now. Coffee?" and Janeway moved towards the replicator.

"No thanks, I can't stay." B'Elanna took a deep breath then said, "I just wanted to let you know that Tom, Harry and I will also be taking some quiet time on Sharbithia this week. We would love to have you join us. . . but I understand if you'd prefer to be alone."

Janeway was surprised and touched. In her years of command she had not often socialized with her crew, and it was only on this ship and in its crazy circumstances that the crew had begun to issue such invitations. For a moment, she was tempted. It would certainly be nice to have some fun and she did enjoy the company of the younger officers. But in her head played those old tapes from the Academy days, "A Captain must remain distant from the crew". Although the barriers were coming down slowly (stuck out here as they were it was necessary for her sanity), it may not yet be time to frolic with her crew on leave.

"Thanks for the invitation, but I think I'll stick to my original plans. If this Captain doesn't get time alone, she gets pretty cranky!"

B'Elanna shrugged slightly, a grin twisting the corner of her mouth. "Well, we can't have you cranky -- especially with coffee so "expensive" in these parts. If you change your mind, just set your tricorder -- it looks like we may have the whole place to ourselves. Most of the crew is looking for more 'sophisticated' relaxation."

Janeway nodded. "I'll keep that in mind. And B'Elanna. . ." This as the younger woman turned to go, ". . . I really appreciate the thought."

With a small wave, the engineer left to begin her own shore leave.


Janeway had been looking forward to a week of solitude and hiking. In the past, if she couldn't get home for leave, this had always been her choice. Time away from people, demands they placed on her, and the demands she placed on herself. But it seemed solitude was not what she needed now -- maybe she needed to interact with people, not get away from them. This command was so different -- because of the lack of other Starfleet personnel to socialize with, and because of her years of protocol barriers, she had no friends on the ship other than Tuvok, and the beginnings of one with Chakotay. The time she spent at Sandrine's was relaxing, but she had shied away from making those final connections of friendship with any of the other crew. But after all of this time, she was getting very lonely - and it was time to start taking some risks.

With renewed determination, she picked up her tricorder and scanned the area. Wilderness for miles in every direction, no dangerous animals or plants, and. . . that could only be B'Elanna, Harry and Tom about a kilometer away. Janeway hesitated for only a moment before heading towards those life-signs. B'Elanna had sounded sincere when she invited her to join them. It was only her own sense of protocol that had kept her from saying 'yes' in the first place. And now, after three days of solitude and boredom, protocol seemed like a foolish reason to spend any more time alone.

She arrived at the edge of the woods and looked out at an idyllic scene. The trees ended at a sandy beach which fell in a gentle slope to a clear blue lake. The boundaries of the lake were just at the edge of her sight, and the water looked cool and inviting. At the sound of laughter, she shaded her eyes from the sun and looked out into the water. Harry Kim and Tom Paris were splashing and laughing in the water. As she watched, they grabbed each other in a wrestle hold, and disappeared under the water.

Janeway smiled and shook her head. . . men really were just boys in big skin - always ready to play. When the two surfaced, she headed towards them, but her greeting died on her lips, and she backed hurriedly into the cover of the trees. The two were still gripping each other, but the hold had turned to caresses, and they were kissing ferociously. Janeway knew she should leave, but remained; her eyes riveted to the tableau before her. Tom's hands were gripping Harry's head, Harry's hands were roaming freely over Tom's back. . . and under the water to places she could see only in her imagination. Janeway stared at the two, beautiful young men, hands roaming over water-slick bodies, mouths breaking free to nibble and murmur endearments she could almost hear. Telling herself again to leave, she was as rooted to the spot as the trees that hid her presence from the lovers in the water.

A slender figure moved out from behind another crop of trees, and moved to the water's edge a few meters away from where Janeway was concealed.

She glanced over to see B'Elanna Torres, hands on her hips, glaring at the two men. Her voice carried equally to those in the water, and to the one who watched.

"So. . . I leave you two alone for a couple of hours, and this is what I find?"

The two in the water broke off, and turned in unison to face her. Janeway held her breath, wondering if B'Elanna had been as surprised as she to know that the two were lovers. The men broke into sheepish grins and waded towards her -- revealing the rest of their bodies to Janeway's still-riveted gaze. She caught her breath for a different reason as the two reached B'Elanna and embraced her between them. The Klingon pulled away easily. . . and glared at them.

"Stop it, both of you! You were presupposed to be gathering supplies, not to be fooling around. And besides, you're getting me all wet."

Taking her words in a way that she hadn't meant, Tom moved back to her side saying, "Ohhhh, really? Well, if you're ready, so are we!"

Finally, a reluctant smile playing on her face, B'Elanna dropped her angry pose. Shaking her head, she flashed a look over to Harry. "Tom, you are incorrigible. Why do we put up with him, Harry?"

Harry grinned back. "Because dear one, you would exhaust me in a week. We need his energy!"

"Energy, I'll show you energy. . . " and Tom pulled B'Elanna back to his side, his hands roaming over her with the ease of long practice. Harry moved in behind her and the men continued to stroke B'Elanna, their mouths rejoining across her body in another hungry kiss.

Janeway was no voyeur -- but she couldn't tear her eyes away from the tableau a few feet from her. Golden skin against white against brown. Hands stroking, holding, clasping together, releasing. Murmurs to laughter, to sighs, to moans. Her own breathing increased as she watched the pleasure they were taking from and with each other. As the men began to divest B'Elanna of her clothing, Janeway came to herself and realized that she had no business watching from the trees like a Ferengi out for a cheap thrill. As silently as she could, she moved away from the clearing and back towards the path.

When Janeway was finally out of earshot, she dropped her pack to the ground, and leaned back against a tree. Her mind was whirling -- B'Elanna, Harry and Tom? Stable trios were rare -- especially among humans -- yet their ease together demonstrated that this was not a new relationship. They had seemed comfortable together .. and certainly passionate about each other.

Passion. . . Janeway shook her head. Another thing that had gone by the wayside due to command protocol. Every book she had ever read, every commander she had ever served under, had stressed the importance of keeping a distance from your crew - and of never having a sexual relationship with someone under your command. Being in the Delta Quadrant, that rather limited her options. Except for that brief idyll with Chakotay on the planet they had named "New Earth"


Janeway gave herself a mental shake and grabbed her pack. One thing was for sure, she was not going to be joining this little camping trio after all. Time to move on, and either find a way to relax, or beam back to the ship and get some work done. . .

"Captain?" Tom's voice, two feet from her, caused her to jump. She turned, her eyes wide, to see him standing on the path in front of her. He had put on a pair of low-slung shorts, but his hair was still damp and Janeway felt a rush of moisture between her legs as the picture of him a few minutes ago came to her mind.

"Oh -- Tom. You startled me. B'Elanna had invited me. . . that is, I saw you. . . I mean ...oh hell!" She stopped -- unable, for the first time in a long time, to pull the mantle of 'Captain' around her shoulders.

Tom's cheeks were flushed, but one side of his mouth quirked in a grin. "To translate, B'Elanna invited you to join us, you decided to accept the invitation belatedly, arrived at the scene at an "intimate" time, and were trying to slip away. Did I get it right?"

Janeway chuckled -- "You've got it exactly right. Except for the apology; I didn't mean to intrude."

Tom shook his head, and took the pack from her hand. "You're not intruding, Captain. B'Elanna's invitation was sincere. . . and from all of us.Won't you join us -- at least for something to eat?" The invitation was made easily, and with the trademark Paris grin. . . the one that said "this isn't important to me". But Janeway, as always, saw through that, and saw that he really wanted her to join them. With that knowledge, her embarrassment crumbled.

"As long as you're sure it wouldn't be an imposition, I'd love to."

He grinned at her, and they made their way through the trees to a clearing where B'Elanna and Harry were bent over a fire. "Look who I found skulking in the woods."

Without thought, Janeway turned and smacked him on the shoulder. "I was not skulking. Captains don't skulk." She turned back to the two at the fire. "B'Elanna -- I hope your invitation is still open."

Torres stood and walked over to Janeway. "Of course the invitation is still open. And you're just in time for dinner -- compliments of Harry."

Before long, Janeway's belongings were stowed and she was seated near the fire with a mug of Thalosian beer in one hand, and a bowl of stew in the other. Throughout this process, Tom had kept the conversation running. . . teasing Harry about his domestic side, (and B'Elanna about her lack thereof), bragging about his success in finding the fruit that complimented their meal, and drawing Janeway into the camaraderie so smoothly that before she knew it, she was joking and laughing with the others - all awkwardness forgotten.

B'Elanna took a spoonful of stew and sighed in utter contentment. "Harry, when we get back to the ship, you have to teach Neelix how to make this."

Harry saluted her with his spoon. "I will, but you know he'll insist on spicing it up, or adding a touch of. . ." ". . . leola root!" they all finished the sentence for him.

"How much of that stuff do you suppose he gathered?" Tom queried. "We've been eating it for years and there's always more in the storeroom."

Janeway shook her head ruefully. "You know, a little leola root goes a long way. According to Neelix, there's enough to last for the next decade or so." After a moment of appalled silence, B'Elanna shook her head.

"Well I for one am not going to think about leola root for the rest of this leave." Turning to Tom she asked, "Are you and Harry still going up the mountain tomorrow?" At Janeway's questioning look, she explained. "Tom has been dying to climb that small mountain by the lake -- he insists that the view will be worth the climb."

Tom nodded -- "I think that when we get to the top we'll be able to see the stars and both moons - in the sky and on the lake. It should really be something. Captain, would you like to join us?"

Janeway shook her head. "No, I think I'll stay here and enjoy the lake; climbing a mountain doesn't hold any appeal for me. I'm feeling a bit lazy"

"Same here," B'Elanna agreed. "Must be a guy thing -- they've been enthusing about it all day. You might as well go and get it over with - - you can tell us what we missed when you get back."


The rest of the evening passed in a similar vein -- with lighthearted chatter, and tall tales. By the time everyone was ready to turn in, Tom had regaled them with stories of his wild youth, B'Elanna and Harry had told a series of jokes. . . each one worse than the last, and Janeway had listened and laughed and felt more relaxed than she could recall feeling in months -- maybe years. In the process, having decided "Captain" was too formal and "Kathryn" too intimate, the trio had settled upon calling her 'KJ'. She had never been one for nicknames, but somehow, this one suited. She set up her mattress on the other side of the camp (and put up with the ribbing from the others who called her "soft" for bringing it), and was asleep moments after her head hit the pillow.


A log fell off of the pile in the fire, and the crash and ensuing sparks brought her awake with a start. Realizing what she had heard, she turned to settle more comfortably into the blankets when she became aware of the sounds on the other side of the camp. The soft moans and sighs could only have one origin, and though Janeway resolutely clenched her eyes tight and tried to will herself back to sleep, her imagination put pictures to those sounds. But it was the whisper carried across the breeze "Oh god, how I love you. . . " that was her undoing. Janeway lay listening to the sounds, thought of loves now far away, and felt terribly alone.

---

She awoke as the sky began to lighten. Stretching luxuriously, she felt a soft breeze play across her shoulders and her eyes flew open as she remembered the events of the night before. She had finally drifted off to sleep but the whispers and sounds of lovemaking had become a part of her dreams. Her blankets were damp with her perspiration, and the dew of a summer morning. She rolled over and looked over to the other side of the campsite. She could make out two forms -- Tom and B'Elanna -- but there was no sign of Harry. Slipping out of bed, she grabbed swim clothes and headed towards the lake to enjoy the sunrise and take a swim bath in the clear water.

When she arrived, after a quick moment to change, she found Harry already seated on a rock gazing at the horizon. At the sound of her step, he turned and smiled, gesturing to a place beside him. Without disturbing the silence, she took her seat and they watched the spectacle of the sunrise -- always beautiful no matter what the planet. As the soft colors faded and the sun's warmth fell over them, Janeway said, "I love this time of the day - when everything is just beginning."

Harry nodded, "I know what you mean. Tom and B'Elanna will sleep until noon if we let them; I keep telling them they're missing the best part of the day."

Gesturing towards a thermos he said, "I brought coffee to start the morning --would you like to start with that, or a swim?"

"A swim, I think -- I'm feeling a little sticky." Blushing slightly at the remembrance of why she was sweaty, Janeway ran down to the edge of the lake and plunged into the still-cool water.

Janeway was a powerful swimmer, but soon, Harry had caught up to her. Side by side, their arms sliced through the water in an informal race towards the opposite shore. When they reached the other side, Janeway was ahead -- but only by a stroke. Standing in the waist-deep water, she caught her breath - then turned to Harry.

"You're not even breathing hard, you wretch. If you're going to 'kiss up' and let the Captain win, you'll have to be a better actor than that!"

Harry grinned over at her; "I'll have to remember that for next time. But meanwhile, we're over here, and the coffee's w-a-a-y over there ..." then he laughed at Janeway's look of dismay. Unable to resist, he needled further. "Shall we race back, or take it more slowly?"

Splashing the smug look off of his face, Kathryn turned and headed in a slow crawl back to the other side. Harry, swimming beside her, said nothing until they had almost reached the opposite shore. Then he reached over and snagged her foot, pulling her underwater. As Janeway came up sputtering, he was running through knee-deep water to the beach. Looking back over his shoulder, he laughed at her expression.

"That's pay-back for splashing me. I don't get mad, I get even."

Janeway couldn't help but laugh in response as she walked out of the lake. Twisting the water from her hair, she stalked towards him, but the threat died on her lips as she saw the cup of steaming coffee he held out like a truce flag. Taking it out of his hand she said, "Fine. I guess you won't be the oldest living Ensign in the Fleet when we get back after all!"

He chuckled along with her and they settled back down on the rock. After a minute though, he turned to her with a serious expression. "Captain?" At her quick look he amended, "KJ -- it suits you. Anyway. . . do you really still think we'll be getting home soon?" She started to give him the pat answer -- the one she'd been giving out to the crew every time the question was asked. But it didn't come out that way -- it couldn't if she was being honest.

"Frankly, no. But if you tell anyone I said so. . . I'll deny it." He looked back at her with comprehension - and a wisdom that she hadn't thought he'd grow into for a couple more years.

"Not on your life. I'll leave that little announcement to you. Though to be honest Cap..... KJ, I think that most of the crew has caught onto that for themselves. They're building lives on the ship, marrying, creating families. I mean, look at Tom, B'Elanna and I. If anyone had told me a year ago ...." he shook his head ruefully. "But we've been gone a long time now. . . I'm a different person from the guy who left Earth on his first mission."

Kathryn chuckled. "Absolutely. You were so green. . . but adorable."

Harry laughed. "Well, not green anymore, but hopefully, still adorable."

Janeway touched his hand. "Absolutely -- and one of my finest officers. I hope I say that to you enough; I know I can count on you Harry -- that means a lot."

He ducked his head with a bit of the old shyness, then stood and extended a hand to her. "Well, KJ -- shall we go rouse those lazy partners of mine? Can't let them sleep the day away!"

And the two walked back to the campsite to sound reveille.


Tom and Harry spent most of the morning packing for their trip up the mountain - - arguing good naturedly about what to take and who would carry the heaviest pack. They would be gone overnight so as to catch a view that Tom was sure would be spectacular.

"It'd better be, " Harry grumbled -- though it was obviously just for effect. He was obviously just as ready for the challenge as Tom and finally, after a quick lunch and kisses and hugs to B'Elanna, they were off. Janeway had never thought of either man as much of a nature- lover, and said as much to B'Elanna as the two women shared a much quieter campfire that evening.

"Nature lovers? Oh, not really. I think it's the challenge of the mountain -- as well as the chance to spend some time alone."

Janeway was surprised. "And that doesn't bother you?"

B'Elanna shook her head. "Not at all. Well ..... to be honest, maybe at first. But it's probably also why our relationship works as well as it does. We all have times when we need to be alone -- and times when we need someone else. Since there are three of us, we can usually get exactly what we're after at any given time."

Janeway put her cup down and turned to the other woman. "B'Elanna, I hope you don't mind my asking, but how did the three of you get together?"

Torres shook her head with a small smile. "Sometimes I can't believe it myself; it was just one of those quirks of fate that sometimes works out for the best. Do you remember when Tom pretended to leave Voyager so he could retrieve technology from Seska?"

Janeway remembered -- very vividly. That incident had been the source of her first major conflict with Chakotay. Once Tom had been brought back safely, they had had the first of several verbal battles over his role on the ship. . .


"Come in". Janeway looked up as Chakotay walked into her ready room and waited until the doors closed behind him. Then, with his mouth tight with anger, he walked towards her desk and, removing both his communicator pin and rank badge, he set them down in front of her.

"Captain, I'm resigning my position as First Officer effective immediately."

For a moment she sat stunned, not able to believe that this was the same man, the same officer who had fit himself so seamlessly into her command style. When she spoke, her voice reflected her amazement. "Commander? If this is about Tom Paris. . ."

"Permission to speak freely, Captain?" Even in his anger, Chakotay held to the protocol he knew she valued and waited for her assent before he exploded. "Of course this is about Tom Paris, and it's about Tuvok, and it's about you and your secrets." She tried to say something about needing him to react. . . needing him to believe. . .

"Bullshit, Captain. This isn't about reacting, or about needing a fight with Paris. This is about trust -- the trust that a Captain must have for her First Officer. You didn't trust my responses in this situation. . . or Tuvok didn't and you listened to him. If we can't believe in each other implicitly, then we can't work together, and this ship isn't going to make it with us as the command team." He put both hands flat on her desk and leaned over glaring at her.

"I've done everything I can to gain your trust; I've backed you on every decision you've made - whether I agreed in private or not. But it's time for you to make a decision -- either I'm your First Officer in truth, or Tuvok is and I'll go join Neelix in the mess hall."


Janeway shook her head ruefully at the memories. It had taken a long time to calm Chakotay that day, and an even longer time to realize that he had been right - and she had been wrong. But since that afternoon when she had finally convinced him to put the badge back on, they had continued to disagree occasionally, but had done so while building a relationship of trust and respect. . . with occasionally, the glimpse that it could be something more. Now, she caught B'Elanna's eye and shook her head in an apology for wool-gathering.

The younger woman smiled, "That mission was a pivotal one in many ways, wasn't it? For Harry and I, it was the chance to realize how much we cared about Tom, and how much his leaving was going to hurt....."


Torres strode through the corridor and into the mess hall. Across the room, Harry Kim gave a half-hearted wave towards the empty chair at his table. B'Elanna grabbed a plate and allowed Neelix to fill it with

". . . the most indescribable taste, Lieutenant, and the most succulent young vines in the salad.. . ." and she nodded and murmured that it looked great. . . wondering why Neelix' food was always in colors most likely to induce nausea. She walked over and dropped down in the chair across from Harry and gestured at his plate.

"So. . . is it edible?"

"Barely," he grimaced. "I was fine until I stopped to taste it -- don't make the same mistake."

She shook her head in agreement and said "Thanks -- I won't."

While she ate, B'Elanna stole glances at the young ensign. Harry looked miserable. Ever since Tom had left Voyager (had it really only been a couple of days?) he had looked dazed. Even now, her few attempts to start a conversation were met with half-hearted replies, and she finally gave up and finished her meal in silence. Finally, she laid her fork on her plate and sighed. "Well, the delights of the food were only enhanced by your scintillating company."

"Huh?" Harry looked at her. . . then grinned sheepishly. "Sorry, B'Elanna. I just can't seem to get it together since. . . since Tom left." One hand clenched into a fist and he burst out, "I thought we were friends, you know? We spent so damn much time together -- I told him everything - I thought he did too. I never knew he was so unhappy, and then everything fell apart so fast. And now. . . with almost no warning. . . he's gone. Just like that." He looked at her, and she saw despair in his eyes. "Gods, B'Elanna. What am I going to do without him?"

Ignoring the curious eyes that were glancing at their table, she covered his hand with her own. "I don't really know Harry. But if you come up with something that helps, let me know, huh?" And he, startled, looked into her eyes and saw the echo of his own tears.

Unwilling to provide further grist for the rumor mill, she grabbed her plate and stood up. "C'mon, Starfleet, let's get out of here." And they took their plates to the disposer, and headed to the only place she could think to go -- Sandrine's.

Much later that night, the two took a slightly weaving path towards B'Elanna's quarters. Sandrine's had helped a little -- at least there was a place to drink and reminisce. . . and synthehol to dull the pain. But they had run out of Tom stories, and others were waiting for the holodeck.

So Torres had decided to call it a night and Harry, unwilling to be alone with his thoughts, went along with her. When they reached her door, B'Elanna turned to him to ask, "Coming in?" and then proceeded inside without waiting for his answer. At the sound of the door closing, she turned and stepped -- right into his arms. Arms which closed around her before she could apologize. . . and as she looked up at his face, his mouth came down on hers in a rush. . . and the time for talking was finished.

Their lovemaking that night was part mourning - part celebration.


Janeway listened to B'Elanna and remembered those weeks when Tom was away -- how hard it was to listen to talk of him being a traitor, how frightened she was for him when they heard of his capture, how relieved and proud she was when they finally brought him home. She brought herself back to B'Elanna's story in time to hear her say. . .

"For the next few weeks, we spent a lot of time together. Harry's a very gentle soul. . . and I learned how to be gentle myself. He's passionate, creative, bright, terribly funny, and a great mimic. You should see him imitate you. . . " at Kathryn's startled look ". . . well, maybe not." And they both laughed.

Janeway, intrigued even though she knew the end of the story, said, "So what happened when Tom did get back? Wasn't that awkward?"

B'Elanna nodded, "Terribly. You see, by that time, we knew how good we were together, and yet. . . there was Tom and how we both felt about him. He knew we were lovers, of course. Without our having to tell him. He tried to keep it from being awkward, but things weren't - quite - right between all of us. Finally, a few nights after he got back, Harry and I decided to meet him at Sandrine's....."


B'Elanna could actually hear Harry swallow as he stood with her in front of the holodeck doors. Stroking his hand with her finger she said, "Buck up, Starfleet. We'll get through this somehow." He looked down at her with a ghost of his usual open smile.

"Yeah, I know. But it's the 'somehow' that's got me worried." With a shrug, she walked into the bar -- Harry trailing.

At this time of night, there were no other crew members at the small tables scattered about; no one playing pool or queuing up at the bar. Paris sat on one of the tall stools, absently staring into a glass of synthetic ale. When he saw them, he summoned up a smile and called out to the holographic bartender. "Two more, for my friends. My two good friends who love me so much, that my absence helped them discover each other."

B'Elanna reached for his arm, "Tom, don't. . ." but he shrugged it off.

"No, B'Ela -- I'm sorry. I am happy for you both, really. It's just that. . . ah hell. I spent all that time out there wondering if I was going to make it safely back. . . wondering if I'd see you guys again. Now that I'm back, things are different. . . maybe it would've been better if I'd died out there. . ."

"No!" With a hoarse cry, Harry moved to Tom's other side and grabbed him hard. "Don't you ever say that, don't you ever think that!! We were lost without you here -- don't you know that? Even after we. . . . even together. . . Tom, we took turns crying ourselves to sleep. And now you're here and we're not letting you go. . . we're just going to have to work this out."

Tom looked at Harry - the shock of the other man's caring was plain on his face. Slowly, with disbelief, Tom slid his arms up Harry's and buried his face in the other man's neck. Harry, for his part, wrapped his arms even tighter and dragged Tom's head around until - without thought - they were kissing deeply. B'Elanna moved up behind Tom wrapping her arms around them both, and stroked her hands over each and both of them. For a long time, the only sounds in the bar were the smoky jazz from the trio in the corner, and the squeaking of the bar stool as it rocked back and forth. Finally, Tom raised his head to look at his friends with eyes that were suspiciously wet.

"So. . . what are we gonna do now?"

Harry flashed a smile at B'Elanna over Tom's shoulder. "Well. . . our thought is that if two of us are good, then three of us could be even better."

Tom stared into Harry's eyes, then back at B'Elanna -- for once, completely without words.

B'Elanna gave him a feral grin. "So, what do you think Blondie -- ready to discover a new ending to your old joke about how to satisfy a Klingon female?"

And Tom smiled - then threw back his head and laughed as the three of them left the bar.


"So -- that's about it. We've had our ups and downs, and I wouldn't recommend it for everyone, but it works for us" A slight pause. "I'm glad you joined us for this leave. I've wanted. . . we've been wanting to talk to you about it but. . . oh hell, this is awkward!"

Janeway chuckled. "I have to admit, I was a little startled - at first. I haven't known anyone who opted for a relationship with two others before; I always found it to be difficult enough with one. But the three of you seem. . . right. . . together, and you've certainly earned your happiness."

Janeway reached over and gave B'Elanna a quick hug. "I'm happy for all of you. . . congratulations."

B'Elanna returned the hug - hard. "Your acceptance means a lot. We are happy -- and believe me, no one is more surprised at that than I am."

They were quiet again, contented to listen to the sounds of the night. B'Elanna watched the light play over Kathryn's face, her eyes reflecting the flames, a tendril of hair which had escaped the long braid curled over one cheek, the way she sat with her cup in both hands, the rim just touching her bottom lip.

"Gods, you're beautiful", she thought - then every muscle in her body tensed as she realized she had spoken out loud.

Kathryn turned to look at her - eyes wide with surprise. "What did you ..." she started, then held up a hand, "No, belay that. . . I don't need it repeated."

B'Elanna could see the tension in Janeway's body, and for a moment, she cursed herself for breaking the easy camaraderie that had been between them. Then, with a Tom-like shrug, she turned to face the other woman. "What .. one compliment and the Captain returns?"

Janeway's mouth twitched, and she relaxed again. "Sorry, you're right. I just wasn't expecting that ...." Janeway broke off - a flush on her cheeks.

"Wouldn't expect that I would find you attractive, or wouldn't expect that I'd admit it?"

Janeway's mouth opened for a moment, but nothing came out. Then with a small chuckle, she put her cup down. "B'Elanna, you are the gutsiest person I've ever met! And to answer your question, I wouldn't have expected either one." Janeway made as if to stand. . . to put some distance between them - and get away from this conversation which had grown uncomfortably intimate.

B'Elanna never knew where the courage for her next impulse came, but she reached out and grabbed Kathryn's shoulder -- holding her in place. With the fingers of her free hand, she stroked a caress down the side of Kathryn's face .. ending with her fingers resting just under the bottom lip. "You are a beautiful woman Kathryn Janeway. You're smart, funny, arrogant as hell, and the best commander I've ever served with -- or ever thought of serving with. And if you don't stop me right now, I'm going to give into the impulse of a thousand daydreams and kiss you."

Kathryn stared at the younger woman - shock, fear, and yes, desire holding her frozen. This wasn't right - she was the captain, and B'Elanna was a member of her crew. She shouldn't be sitting here, eyes tracing the fullness of the younger woman's mouth, ears feeling the pounding of her heart, and the heat between her legs an instant response. She should stand up now, find another campsite, beam back to the ship. Instead, her eyes closed slowly, and her mouth met B'Elanna's half way, her hand cupping B'Elanna's face in a mirror of the hand cupping her own. How could she have forgotten the feel of another mouth on her own, the hot, wet heat of tongues and breaths mingling?

Somehow, the one kiss turned into a shower of kisses, and they tumbled together to the soft ground - arms and legs intertwining. Hands caressed her back -- tangled in her hair. B'Elanna was whispering between kisses. . . and Kathryn was almost lost in a flood of desire. Almost ... almost she was swept out of reason. Almost, she allowed herself to return the caresses in full measure. But finally, reluctantly, she pulled her mouth from the other woman's and rolled over on her back -- taking B'Elanna with her.

When B'Elanna would have recaptured her mouth, Kathryn pulled her head to her shoulder -- stroking her hair and quieting her like a small child. "We can't do this, B'Elanna."

Torres raised herself up to stare into Kathryn's face, then smiled at her. "Give me one good reason why not -- KJ", and she lowered herself until their breasts brushed together.

Janeway groaned softly -- "You don't play fair, young woman."

B'Elanna flashed another Tom-grin, "Those who play fair rarely win. And besides, you still haven't given me a reason," and she lowered her face for another kiss.

Janeway caught her head between two hands and held her, a tinge of anger in her voice. "Because I am the captain of your ship, damn you, and captains don't have sex with their crew."

B'Elanna easily moved out of Janeway's hold, and dropped another light kiss on her lips. "Why not?" she asked, pulling back to look into Kathryn's face.

"Because. . ." Janeway stopped. She knew there were dozens of good reasons for this tradition. . . but at that moment she couldn't think of one.

B'Elanna waited for an answer and, when none was forthcoming, rolled off of Kathryn and pulled her to a sitting position. Holding both of Janeway's hands firmly in hers, she said, "Kathryn Janeway, I find you terribly attractive. That doesn't change the fact that you are my captain and, I hope, my friend. I followed your orders yesterday, and I will follow them tomorrow -- and I know you'll be giving them. But right now, we're on leave, it's a beautiful night, and neither one of us can think of a good reason not to make love." She stopped for a moment, then gave a small laugh. "Besides, who are you planning on having sex with if not a member of the crew? Somehow, I don't think that either the Kazons or the Vidiians are your type. . . "

Janeway couldn't help it -- she laughed aloud. Cullah in her bed? She shook her head quickly to lose that image. Then, "But what about Harry and Tom?"

B'Elanna's eyes twinkled, "Well, if they get back before we wear out, they'll want to join us. We had a discussion once about possible 'extra' partners, and you were at the top of the list!"

Janeway laughed again, even as her cheeks grew hot at the thought -- whether from embarrassment or excitement she wouldn't admit - even to herself. She looked over at Torres. . . amazed again at the risks the woman had taken in the past few minutes. After all of that, Janeway owed her an honest response. Leaning slowly towards her, Kathryn brushed soft cheek against soft cheek, then moved close to B'Elanna's ear and traced it softly with her tongue. "I may regret this -- but right now, I can't imagine saying no." And catching the lobe between her teeth, she bit down - hard.

B'Elanna groaned as the last rational thought left her brain. Kathryn's hands moved to the sides of her head -- clamping over her ears, so she could hear no external sounds. The pounding of her heart mingled with the sounds of her ragged breathing, and Kathryn's mouth was ravaging her own.

The hands moved away from her ears and through her hair -- pulling her head back. Kathryn's lips, teeth and tongue were tracing a trail along her jaw, and down her neck. B'Elanna leaned backwards -- pulling Kathryn with her until they were once again lying on the ground -- B'Elanna on her back and Kathryn on top. Kathryn pulled back slightly to imitate B'Elanna's earlier move -- brushing breast against breast. The pressure between B'Elanna's legs was so strong it was almost painful. . . she clenched her hands into fists to keep from flipping Kathryn over and grinding against her.

Kathryn's hands moved to the fastenings of B'Elanna's shirt -- lips nibbling on the flesh that was revealed as the material parted. B'Elanna sat up slightly to help pull the material off, then lay back to enjoy the caresses. Janeway stared down at the body revealed in the firelight -- B'Elanna's full breasts. . . the nipples tight with desire. Suddenly needing the feeling of bare skin against bare skin, Kathryn sat up and pulled off her own shirt, then slowly lowered herself down until they lay completely against each other. B'Elanna's legs were wrapped around her -- one foot caressing her backside. Kathryn could not stay still, but moved hands up and down B'Elanna's body -- planting kisses everywhere except on those nipples. Finally, Torres could stand it no longer and pulled Kathryn's mouth to her breast, groaning as she fastened onto it -- sucking greedily. Kathryn's other hand moved to the other breast, molding and stroking it -- then switching sides so that B'Elanna was awash in sensation. When Kathryn's hands moved to the fastening of her pants, B'Elanna stopped her.

"My turn," she growled and pulled Kathryn's mouth back to hers and rolling them both over.

Janeway was wild with need by the time B'Elanna had lavished attention on each breast, and covered her upper body with kisses. Finally, when she thought she'd scream with frustration B'Elanna moved along her side, and slipping her hands under the waistband, pulled her slacks down and off. Divesting herself of the rest of her own clothes, B'Elanna lay against Kathryn's side and kissed her. She drew one hand slowly up Kathryn's thigh, then stroked between her legs. Kathryn cried out into B'Elanna's mouth, and the sound of that cry combined with the incredibly hot slick feeling between Kathryn's legs drove the last of B'Elanna's control from her. She straddled Kathryn's thigh, moving against her in a rhythm that matched the strokes of her hand. Kathryn thrashed beneath her - breathing in short gasps. She could feel Kathryn's muscles beginning to contract, and she slid her fingers inside, using her thumb to continue stroking.

As Janeway began to stiffen and cry out, Torres looked down into her flushed face, and slowed her own rhythm to watch. Janeway's insides were contracting against her fingers, her face was flushed, and her cries mingled with the sounds of the night.

Kathryn came down from a powerful climax to see B'Elanna's face above hers -- eyes wide, breath coming in quick gasps. Wanting - no, needing to bring her some of the same pleasures she had felt, she rolled them over once more. As B'Elanna's began to protest, Janeway closed off the words with her mouth, then curled over her, slipping two fingers inside B'Elanna, and stroking her with a thumb. Now it was B'Elanna's turn to scream into a warm mouth. . . conscious not only of the perfection of the touch, but also of the identity of her lover. Janeway's hands on her - in her - Janeway's mouth and tongue tangling with hers. She spiraled higher, concentration narrowing to that. . . one. . . place. . . then writhed and shuddered in her own orgasm.

Firelight played over their intertwined forms as B'Elanna lay stroking Kathryn's skin - not daring to break the mood with words. Janeway, for her part, had come back to reality -- hard. Her internal voice was raging, "Oh god, what have I done?" - even while she continued to revel in the gentle caresses, the feeling of warm body against her own. . . how she had missed these feelings. Finally, she raised herself up on one elbow and forced herself to meet B'Elanna's eyes.

"We shouldn't have done that," she whispered, softening the words with a kiss.

"No, probably not," B'Elanna agreed. "But wasn't it fun?"

And Janeway chuckled - and the next minute they were laughing together -- all thoughts of regret cast off into the night.

"KJ, you've done this before - with a woman, I mean?"

Janeway nodded. "When I was about your age, I was very much in love with another woman. She chose to end the relationship -- needing to focus all her energy on her career." Janeway was silent for a time, remembering her own pain - not understanding why the two passions couldn't coexist. Now, older and wiser, she resolved that if her former lover was still alive when they got back to the Alpha Quadrant, she would look her up and tell her that now she understood the fears. Although, knowing how far the passionate woman she had loved had been buried in the persona of Admiral Necheyev, she still thought the choice to eschew love - in whatever form - had been too high a price to pay for that success.

Janeway came back to the present with a shake of her head. "Anyway, my lovers since then have been male -- and there haven't been many at that. I've never been one for empty sex."

B'Elanna smiled warmly and kissed her. "Then, I'm doubly gratified that you're here with me now." Running her hands lightly up Janeway's sides she queried, "Are you too tired for another round?"

Janeway laughed. "Oh, I think that there's an energy cell or two left. . ." and began some explorations of her own.

It was several hours later when Janeway was awakened by a warm body sliding in behind her. Strong hands ran up her sides and grasped her breasts, and a mouth settled on the curve of her neck. She groaned in response, and pulled the body in front of her closer. . . and came suddenly wide awake realizing where she was. She and B'Elanna had wrapped themselves up in blankets and each other and had crashed into a deep sleep. B'Elanna was still in her arms, and the form behind her was definitely male. As all of this was coalescing in her sleep-fogged brain, the hands on her body stilled, and an uncertain voice whispered, "umm. . . B'Elanna??"

She shook her head against his chest and stifled a giggle as the hands and body were abruptly withdrawn with a moaned. . . "Ohhhh shit."

She turned and grabbed Tom Paris' arm before he could leap up from the blankets -- her own sense of the absurd allowing her to see the humor in the situation. Whispering to avoid waking B'Elanna, "It's okay Tom -- an honest mistake. And. . . a pleasurable one, I might add."

Tom froze -- this was a side of the Captain he had seen only rarely ... with the gigolo at Sandrine's, or with comments directed at Chakotay. But when she neither became indignant or left the warmth of the blanket, he allowed his muscles to relax. Finally, he dared, "So. . . you and B'Elanna got along okay without us?"

Janeway laughed softly. "I guess you could say that -- it seems command protocols have truly gone to hell on this trip." She reached over to touch his arm, "You don't mind?"

"Hell no, didn't B'Elanna tell you about The List?"

Janeway shook her head, then realizing that he probably couldn't see her said, "She mentioned something about extra partners, but I had other things on my mind at the time."

He chuckled, "I'll bet. It's like this. When we began talking about making our relationship a permanent one, the question of fidelity came up. We decided that, for the most part, we would be very happy with each other. But there were a few people who we had all fantasized about - we decided that if by some miracle they ever fell into our arms, we would be free to indulge. You were at the top of the list."

Janeway caught her breath - then forced herself to breath normally. "I don't know whether to be flattered or appalled."

Tom touched her briefly -- "Oh, be flattered, definitely. You were the only one on the ship to make all three lists."

Janeway started to reply, when Tom said, "I think I hear Harry. He stopped at the lake for a quick swim - let's see what he does."

Janeway felt absurdly like a child at a sleep over playing tricks on her friends, but she obligingly curled herself back around B'Elanna and lay still. Harry's soft footfalls came closer, then the blanket lifted on the other side of B'Elanna and he settled in. As he put his arm around her, his hand encountered Janeway's waist, and stilled. Then, in a quiet voice, Harry said, "You owe me two days replicator rations, Paris, " and with a "Goodnight KJ," and he quickly fell off to sleep.

"Well, I'll be damned," Tom said softly, then the blanket rustled as he sat up. I'm going to take a swim -- and I hope the lake's v-e-r-y cold. Unless. . ." he swallowed, "...unless you'd like to join me?"

Janeway spared a moment to think, then her mother's voice came into her head, "In for a penny, in for a pound. . ." and she sat up and said, "Oh why not -- I'm not going to get back to sleep anytime either." And tucking the blankets around B'Elanna, she followed Tom away from the campsite.


The path through the trees was laced with shadows, and her feet made faint depressions in the soft earth. She hadn't bothered to dress -- counting on the dark night to shield her from Tom's eyes. But as she watched him walk ahead of her, the shafts of moonlight that penetrated the trees revealed his form, and she knew he was taking the same advantage of the light that he was. . . catching glimpses of muscles and satin skin and finding the sight immensely pleasurable.

When they reached the edge of the lake, the light from the twin moons bathed everything in a bright silver glow. The water lapping at her ankles was cool, but not at all cold enough to quench her re-awakened desire -- or his. The breeze caressed her softly, and tendrils of her hair danced around her face and touched her breasts. She made an effort to control her breathing, to keep it steady and slow, but she knew it was a losing battle.

They moved into the water together. . . slicing through the moon-soaked depths with silent strokes. Phosphorescence played about their limbs, and Kathryn cupped the water and held it high over Tom's head .... allowing the tiny lights to dance around his face. His hands stroked the water around her body -- never quite reaching her, until she thought that the almost-touches would drive her mad. She could feel the heat emanating from him -- and felt its echo inside. Finally, she could stand the wanting no longer and strokes her hands lightly up his arms till they rested on his shoulders. Floating her body towards his she brushed his lips with her own.

"So, Tom. What shall we do now?" His eyes bore into hers -- shock and desire warring in his expression. She continued, "It appears that, despite everything I've ever believed about protocol, I'm enjoying this shore leave with a vengeance. Now, since this is the only time I'm ever going to -- how did you put it -- 'fall into your arms', are we going to indulge, or not?"

With a groan, Tom put an arm around her and another under her and floated her over until she was straddling his stomach. She splayed her hands across his chest as his mouth came down on hers and his hands tangled in her hair. She felt his erection pressing up between their stomachs, and felt her insides melt in response. The heat of their bodies warmed the swirling water around them, and Janeway groaned with the intensity of the mingled sensations. Her body, long denied sexual release, seemed to be making up for the lack tonight, and her skin tingled as his hands and his mouth were everywhere -- exploring and tasting her.

Somehow, he got them both to the shore where they lay across the wet sand, pressed full length against each other. His hand stroked between her legs, his mouth trailing kisses across her breasts and down her stomach. When his mouth arrived at the curls between her legs and paused, she moaned her encouragement - - reaching blindly for his hair as she raised her hips in supplication.

He needed no further urging, and suddenly his hot mouth was on her -- tasting her fully. Kathryn rubbed herself frantically against his mouth -- lost in the sensations. . . feelings that she had thought satiated just a few short hours ago once again in full need. Wanting him inside her she reached down -- tugging at his arms, pulling him up her length. His mouth reached hers and she tasted her juices on his mouth as he drove into her.

Their rhythms matched quickly. . . and everything whited out except the feeling of him inside her, the feeling of mouths and breaths hot on skin, hands gripping and holding, and the sounds of their passion lost in the movement of water lapping at their feet.


It had been late when Tom and Kathryn got back to the campsite and fell asleep, yet her habit of rising early wasn't affected by the lack of sleep. Soon after sunrise she awoke and felt rather than saw that someone else was awake, and turned to find her face about six inches away from Harry's open eyes. He smiled at her then mouthed, "Coffee??", and at her nod, he slipped out of the blankets and headed towards the replicator.

Janeway pulled on a shirt before joining him and gratefully accepted the cup of strong brew. Still without speaking, Harry took her other hand, and they strolled away from the campsite and headed back over to the lake.

"We missed the sunrise," Janeway said as they settled themselves on 'their' rock.

"Well, we were all up pretty late last night -- you and Tom especially. . ." and he looked over at her and winked.

Janeway refused to acknowledge the blush on her cheeks and winked right back. "I didn't think you were asleep that quickly. B'Elanna on the other hand. . ."

Harry laughed. "B'Ela can sleep through everything short of a red alert. It's amazing what Tom and I can do without her stirring. . . " and then it was his turn to blush.

Janeway laughed -- he really was adorable. He settled himself more comfortably and held out an arm - an invitation for her to snuggle in. Without hesitation, she did so -- his chest was a far more comfortable backrest than the rock. In companionable silence, they finished their coffee.

Finally, Kathryn sighed. "I could get used to this, you know. Oh -- not with the three of you, of course, but. . ." her voice trailed off.

Harry's lips brushed her hair, and his arm squeezed her lightly. "It must get very lonely being you."

Janeway closed her eyes tightly at the sudden lump in her throat. "Most of the time, it's not a problem. I love command -- Voyager is everything I could ask for in a ship and crew. But every once in awhile, I think about the rest of my life without. . . intimacy. Do you understand that I mean more than just sex?"

Harry nodded, and his hand began stroking her arm. "Of course I do. Not that you could believe it from this leave, but the most important parts of my relationship with B'Elanna and Tom have nothing to do with the physical stuff. I've got someone to share the joy when something goes right, and the frustration when it doesn't. They love me, KJ. . ." and his voice was full of wonder ". . . they love me and because I know that, I can risk so many other things. . . be so much stronger than I am alone." He took a breath as though to continue, then stopped.

"Harry?" she gave him tacit permission to continue.

"Well, I was wondering -- what about Commander Chakotay? I thought for sure that when the two of you were on that planet that you. . . that he. . . well, I would've. . ." he shrugged.

Kathryn shook her head ruefully. "That was such a unique experience, Harry. We thought we'd be there for the rest of our lives. Yes, we did begin to form a -- a different kind of relationship. But then we were back on the ship, and our personal lives had to take a back seat to Voyager. Since then, we've had our moments. . . but I just don't know if it could work. And if we tried and it didn't work - oh Harry, the consequences could be devastating for the ship and the crew."

Harry sat up suddenly and turned her so she was facing him. "Why devastating? Are you telling me that you and Chakotay couldn't handle a 'break up' without jeopardizing your command and your crew? Because I don't buy that for a minute. You're not children, and you're both committed to Voyager." He gazed at her; determination in his face. "You want to know what I think? I think you're scared to try and you're using the ship as an excuse. I think you know how much you both could be to each other, and the idea of that much intimacy scares the hell out of you."

She drew in a sharp breath, wanting to negate what he'd said. . . knowing she couldn't. Finally admitting defeat, she raised a hand. . . placing it on his cheek. "Oh Harry Kim, when did you become so wise?"

He turned his face so he could place a kiss on her palm. "I'm not that wise, KJ -- I just want everyone I care about to be as happy as I am."

Her eyes filled as she looked into his face, and as she closed her eyes for a kiss, one tear escaped and trailed down her cheek. He followed it with his mouth, reclaiming her mouth in a deep and gentle kiss.

Tom cleared his throat behind them, breaking the mood. "B'Elanna sent me to get you guys for breakfast. Of course, I could go back and tell her it's Harry's turn with the Captain. . ." and he leered suggestively at them.

Harry laughed, holding Kathryn in a tight hug before letting her go. "No need for that my friend, I had my 'turn' with the Captain about two years ago. . . " and Janeway and Harry walked by Tom who was stunned into a momentary silence.

By the time they reached the campsite, Tom had recovered his voice, and was barraging Harry with questions. Harry had a poker face that would have done a Vulcan credit. . . and it was all Janeway could do to keep from giggling. She remembered that night with a nervous Harry Kim -- who was determined that his "first time" be with someone special. When Tom wasn't looking, she gave him a quick wink and a small nod. She wanted him to feel free to share the details of that night; and knew that he never would have done so without her consent. However, she also knew that Harry was enjoying Tom's shock. . . and would probably milk the suspense for a long time before relenting. B'Elanna for her part passed out plates of bread and fruit and listened to the teasing with a fond air. . . somehow Kathryn knew that this was not the surprise for her that it had been for Tom.

Finally Tom, seeing that he wasn't going to get anything out of Harry, changed the subject. "So, my compatriots and gentle guest, how shall we spend the day?"

Harry stretched and said, "Well I for one am going fishing. After all of that climbing yesterday, I want to sit and do nothing."

Tom smirked at him, "What Harry -- too much for you? I'm going to explore those caves we saw on the way up. . . anyone want to join me?"

B'Elanna's eyes gleamed. "Caves? Now that's an excursion I'll sign up for. Join us, KJ?" Kathryn shook her head. "I'm still feeling lazy; I'll stay around here and catch up on some reading. But I was wondering -- would anyone else be up for sleeping by the lake tonight? It's a shame to waste all of that moonlight. . ."

This got an enthusiastic response from the others, and everyone dispersed for the day's pursuits.


"This was a great idea. . . it's gorgeous here." Harry looked up at the sky which was awash with stars. The first moon was just over the horizon spreading a ribbon of light across the water towards them, and the second would be rising soon. They were all gathered on the sandy beach after having a wonderful dinner; fish that Harry had caught supplemented with wild mushrooms and greens. For her contribution, Janeway had treated them to replicated ice cream -- a perfect end to the meal. The night was a little warmer than most, and the lack of breeze had concerned Tom and Harry who were not looking forward to a re-visit from the mosquitoes they had encountered on the mountain. But Janeway had pulled the sonic pulsers from her anti-grav pack, so thanks to her reliance on technology (and Chakotay's packing advice), they could enjoy the evening pest-free.

Kathryn lay back on blankets they had spread on the sand and felt the warmth from the ground seep through to her muscles. Her hair, still in a stiff braid, poked into her shoulder blades and she sat up to adjust it.

B'Elanna was suddenly there behind her, "Here -- let me." The other woman pulled out the band that held the hair and began combing the braid out with her fingers. When she had all of the hair free, she began massaging Janeway's scalp with her nails -- letting the strands of hair fall through her fingers.

Janeway let out a breath -- "Oh, that feels good. . ." and closed her eyes giving herself up to the sensation of being stroked. Another set of hands surrounded her feet -- massaging slowly up her ankles and legs. Janeway felt desire curling in her stomach as she opened her eyes to see Harry, intent on his task, look over her body to B'Elanna who was behind her.

Tom moved to her side and dropped a hand on her thigh. Leaning close he murmured, "It looks like it's 'be kind to Kathryn' time. Any objections?"

His breath, warm on her face, drowned any hesitation she might have had and, for an answer, she reached out with her tongue and licked his lips.

Tom gasped, then put a finger to her lips, caressing them gently. Her lips parted and he reached a finger in to meet her tongue. His eyes were warm with desire, and his breathing quickened along with hers. He moved the finger out of her mouth, and traced a damp trail down her chin and to the place where her neck and shoulder met.

B'Elanna pulled Janeway's hair to the side and Tom followed the finger with soft lips. B'Elanna knelt behind Janeway, breasts pressed up against her back. B'Elanna's hands stroked Janeway's sides and around to her stomach.

Janeway reached up for Tom -- unable to be passive any longer, but he gripped her hands in his and smiled down at her.

"Oh no, I think you need to be spoiled just a little longer. Relax KJ -- let us take over for now."

Janeway groaned in response -- being passive was not her usual style in bed. But the it all felt so good. . . and so she gave herself over to their ministrations. Harry, meanwhile, had also forsaken hands for lips and was laying between her feet slowly kissing his way up her body .... one leg and then the next. The slow pace of the caresses was driving her wild. . . yet the three seemed intent on taking their time. Every inch of her body was lavished with lips and hands -- her skin felt alive and every part of her was awash in sensation. When she leaned back into B'Elanna, she could feel soft breasts against her back. Harry alternately kissed her legs, and then brushed his silky hair along her feet or thighs. Tom explored her everywhere - removing her clothes as he went. His kisses and strokes were interspersed with words of admiration. B'Elanna was sliding her body along Janeway's back - and taking her share of Tom's kisses.

Finally Harry, having made his way up her reached her mouth and pulled her against his length; rolling them over so Kathryn was on top. Their kisses were deep and Kathryn threaded her hands into the silkiness of his hair, reveling in the feel of that finally in her hands -- and of his erection which pulsed between them. She sat up, gripping his hips with her thighs. . . teasing his erection with her pubis. It was Harry's turn to groan with desire and she smiled at him in triumph. Tom's hands were everywhere -- undressing Harry with the same skill he had used with her.

B'Elanna moved so that she could continue stroking Janeway's back - hands sliding up and down her spine. . . trailing kisses and small bites along her shoulders. Finally, she ran one finger from the base of Kathryn's neck down to her ass. As B'Elanna's finger began stroking slowly along and inside the crack, Janeway cried out at the intensity of her body's reaction. That cry proved to be a catalyst and suddenly, the time for slow lovemaking was at an end. Janeway shifted so that Harry could enter her and, at the same time, B'Elanna's fingers gently insinuated themselves into her from behind. Tom leaned over Harry to recapture her mouth and Kathryn's orgasm slammed into her almost immediately - so intense that she screamed. Harry deliberately slowed his thrusts so that he could watch her -- her head thrown back and eyes screwed shut, and her hair sweeping over all of them like a curtain in the moonlight.

Kathryn rolled off of Harry -- for the moment, absolutely spent. When she was able to open her eyes, she saw that B'Elanna was now sandwiched between the men, and the three of them were moving in a frantic rhythm. The men alternated between kissing B'Elanna and each other, and hands clasped and released in conjunction with the rhythm of their thrusts - one in front and one behind. Janeway squeezed her legs together tightly - aroused again at the sight, and shuddered in another climax as they cried out -- Harry first, but the other two following quickly. Harry reached out blindly towards her, and she crawled over to fall on top of them and join in kisses and murmurs and caresses; they made love together until long after both moons were high in the sky.

---

Janeway awoke as a shaft of sunlight hit her eyes, and for a time she lay still, listening to the breathing of her bedmates. Three days ago she had been on a virtuous, albeit sterile shore leave, and now she was tumbled among her junior officers like one of a heap of sleeping puppies. She gingerly probed her conscience -- expecting a sharp pang, but could muster up nothing more than a slight concern. She just felt too damn good to worry about what would happen when they all got back on the ship. After all, once their sojourn on New Earth had ended, she and Chakotay had managed to regain their working relationship. . . she would be able to do the same this time. The memories of exactly what had happened last night flashed into her brain and she knew she had realized several long-buried fantasies. . . but the most erotic memory she would carry was the sight of her friends -- and the intensity of their love.

Harry had been right yesterday, she couldn't run from those needs forever. The potential rewards were worth the risk of trying. . . and she resolved that the next shore leave, Tuvok would have to do less research so that she could find some time with Chakotay. It was time to let go of some of her fears and let that relationship develop as it would.

While she had been thinking, she had managed to get up and replicate coffee and breakfast -- it was her turn to treat. By the time the others stumbled sleepily back to the campsite, she was dressed and packed. Handing cups around, she joined them in the light fare. As the caffeine hit and Tom began soliciting plans for the day, Kathryn held up a hand,

"I'm going to be heading back to the ship. . ." and shook her head as they began to protest. "No, the three of you deserve some time alone and I. . . I have some thinking to do ."

B'Elanna started, "Listen, if things went too far last night. . ."

Janeway held up a hand to stop her. "On the contrary. This has been. . . an important leave for me. I had forgotten how much I need someone -special - in my life. I've been so busy being 'Captain' that I hadn't realized how much of life I've closed off. Being with you has reminded me. . ." and her voice trailed off.

Paris cleared his throat and took her hand. Gazing intently into her eyes he said, "Listen, KJ, if you ever need to be reminded again. . . I'd be happy to oblige. . ." and ducked as the others began laughing and throwing bread at him.

Before things could get awkward again, Janeway stood - brushing the crumbs off her legs. "I'll go get my gear and call the ship."

The other three also stood and she looked at them -- amazed at the comfort level they had all achieved in such a short time. She held out her arms, and suddenly they were all locked in a hug, holding tightly. She moved out of the hug and smiled - eyes bright.

B'Elanna was the first to speak, " Kathryn, thanks for joining us -- everything was wonderful."

Janeway gave a wicked grin back at them all. "Absolutely. And. . . I hope that 'KJ' - even without the everything - will be welcome at Sandrine's?"

They laughed at her and with her as she gathered her things and beamed back to the ship. She was still smiling as she stepped off the transporter and Chakotay, who was there to meet her, couldn't help but smile back.

"Good leave, Captain?"

"The best, Chakotay. But I'm still technically on leave for the next 24 hours. . . so maybe you should call me Kathryn."

And she linked her arm with his and began to fill him in on the details of her leave. 'Well. . .most of them.'

---

End