Chapter Text
Langzame Liefde (Slow Love)
by Aramis Firechild
Archer sat, slumped slightly in his command chair. He was trying his best to look interested but the truth was he was bored. The entire crew was bored. Weeks had passed since they had encountered any sort of inhabited planet and the boredom was beginning to play on the crew. Arguments and random fistfights seemed to increase as the days went by. Archer ached for anything, a comet, an asteroid, anything to stimulate excitement amongst his crew. A chirping from T'pol's station
brought him out of his reverie.
"Sub-commander report"
The tall striking alien bent slightly and regarded her screen. "We're coming up on another planet Captain. It seems that the atmosphere is hospitable."
"Finally" came an exasperated sigh from Commander Tucker. Archer shot him a look before turning his attention back to the Vulcan.
"Life signs?"
T'pol scrutinized the readings. "Our sensors are picking up nothing other then planet and basic marine life."
Archer hid his disappointment, having hoped for some sort of possible first contact mission. A thought struck him and his disappointment was quickly replaced with a grin. "Make orbit Ensign Mayweather."
The young man peered over his shoulder. "Sir?"
Archer stood and rubbed his hands together. "I think it's high time we had a chance to stretch our legs."
* * *
As Archer had predicted many of the crew jumped at the chance to explore the uninhabited planet. Mayweather and a group had taken a shuttle to some mountain ranges to do some climbing, while Phlox, Hoshi and another group decided to use the time gathering various planet samples. Archer himself was now preparing to head down himself. He smiled at his small dog Porthos, who sat head cocked to one side. He pulled out the dog's lead and his tail began to wag furiously. "Ready for a walk boy?" The man bent slowly and clicked the lead in place. Porthos tugged and practically pulled the Captain towards the shuttle bay.
When Archer arrived Malcolm Reed and Trip Tucker were waiting for him. He was pleasantly surprised to find the two of them together, having noticed a bit of distance between them of late. He smiled at the two and ushered his dog into the shuttle. "Just you two?"
Trip shrugged. "T'pol insisted she was fine. Sometimes ah think she does that just t'annoy me."
Malcolm shrugged and entered the pod, taking his seat by the controls. "I highly doubt, Commander, she takes your reaction into account."
Trip's face colored. "Now what's that suppose to mean?"
Archer held up his hands. "Gentlemen please, the whole point of this is to stop the tension on the ship, not add to it. Now let's head down. Where are we going Lieutenant?"
Malcolm cleared his throat and began the take off sequence. "Our scans located a wooded area on the north west side of the major continent."
"Perfect," Archer grinned. "Take us down Lieutenant"
* * *
When the shuttle doors opened Trip was amazed by the size of the trees that stood before them. Craning his neck, the southern engineer let out a low whistle. "Wow, would you look at that."
Archer stood beside his friend, Porthos straining at the lead. Malcolm, last to exit, joined the group, standing slightly behind Trip. "Reminds me of my summers in Canada. British Columbia actually."
Trip looked at the British officer. "Canada?"
Malcolm smiled slightly, his tone challenging. "My parents believed in traveling being good for a boy. Plus the British have always had respect for Canada."
Trip crossed his arms over his chest. "Meaning they don't respect the United States?"
Archer rolled his eyes and moved forward, letting Porthos take the lead. "Gentlemen, if I have to remind you again I'm going to lock you both in the shuttle pod and enjoy this day myself."
Trip grinned and moved to catch up with Archer while Malcolm blushed slightly. Archer let Porthos tug them into the forest. The trees were defiantly impressive. Tall and some sort of species similar to cedar, Archer could see Malcolm's comparison to the woods of British Columbia, having been there once himself. The air was warm but crisp making it perfect for hiking. After a few minutes of Porthos' insistent tugging, Archer leaned down to release the lead.
"Do you think that's wise Sir?" Malcolm asked.
Archer smiled. Always the security officer, he thought. He unclipped the lead. "Don't worry Malcolm, T'pol's scans showed nothing more then some basic pond life. Plus Porthos is amazingly well trained, aren't you boy?"
"Ya Malcolm, "Trip added. "Lighten up would you."
Malcolm opened his mouth to respond to the Commander's comment but changed his mind. The small beagle wagged his tail and trotted eagerly a few feet in front of them. Malcolm looked wary but said nothing as the group continued deeper into the woods.
As the group continued Archer could see his two senior officers and friends begin to relax. Trip continued to marvel at the wilderness having never seen forests like this back in Florida while Archer could see the tension in Malcolm's frame begin to subside. Yes, he thought to himself, this was defiantly a good idea. As they neared a small stream Archer noticed Porthos had paused. The small dog was standing perfectly still, sniffing the air, head raised in interest.
"What is it boy?" Archer asked, puzzled. Before anyone could get closer the small dog turned and took off at break neck speed.
"PORTHOS" Archer called. "Come back." Obvious that the dog had no intention of listening, Archer himself took off in a run in the direction his dog had gone with Trip and Malcolm close behind.
* * *
"Damnit Porthos." Archer swore as he stumbled through the underbrush. "You are in SO much trouble when I catch you." The three Star Fleet officers crashed through the woods trying desperately to catch the small dog. As they made their way onto a clearing the men looked in amazement at Porthos who was now sitting staring at them beside what appeared to be another dog. Porthos regarded his owner and friends with a look of, "what took you so long?"
"Captain what is that?" Trip asked softly. The three men had paused, suddenly frightened that any movement might provoke the other strange animal.
"I don't know Trip. T'pol's scans didn't pick up anything like that." Archer looked at the other creature. It was the same size as Porthos. It looked like some sort of terrier with a gray body and white legs. Its tail was a stump and was wagging as furiously as Porthos'. Around it's neck was a red collar with some sort of metallic box on it. While the three men were lost in thought and confusion the two dogs turned and took off once more.
"Damnit" Archer cried, still out of breath from the first chase.
"I'll get him Sir," Malcolm volunteered as he took off after the pair. Trip and Archer watched as the security officer disappeared into the woods. With a curt nod they moved to follow.
* * *
Malcolm knew this had been a bad idea. As soon as he saw Archer take off the lead he knew something bad was going to happen. He would have insisted but he had been distracted by Trip. The two of them had been arguing more these past few weeks. It started after they had gotten saved from the shuttle pod. Since then Trip had seemed to be avoiding him and when they were together he seemed almost, hostile. Malcolm sighed as he ducked under a branch. This wasn't the time to dwell on that. Just grab the dog and get back to the Captain.
As Malcolm moved over a fallen tree he found the pair, now both panting, tails going, sitting in front of a wide cedar.
"Okay you little runt. End of the road." Malcolm moved slowly, bending to gather Porthos up in his arms. Perhaps it was because he was focusing on being careful not to startle the other animal, perhaps it was because he was still puzzling about Trip's behavior, whatever it was, Malcolm didn't see the branch being swung at his head before it was too late.
*CRACK*
Archer and Trip heard Malcolm cry out and picked up their pace, Trip running just a bit faster. They both were not prepared for what they would find. Lying on the forest floor was Malcolm, dazed, hand to his bleeding forehead and above him stood a young man holding a branch, screaming in a menacing voice.
"Verblijf weg! Ik zal u niet dit dier laten kwetsen!"
Archer couldn't help but stare at the young man. He appeared to be in his twenties by human standards. He stood about Malcolm's height. His skin was caramel colored and he had long black hair that hung loose past his waist. His clothing was extremely baggy and dirty and he was bare foot. Though it was his face though that drew Archer's gaze. His features were exotic, with high cheekbones and a small nose. He looked almost like the elves of storybooks from Earth, just without the pointed ears. The young man quickly noticed Archer and Trip and waved the stick at the two of them.
"Wie zijn u? Waarom achtervolgt u deze hond?"
Archer held up his hands. "My name is Captain Jonathan Archer. That's my dog and my officer over there." Archer wasn't sure the young man understood him. He slowly took a step forward. "We aren't here to harm you."
"Wat zegt u? Ik begrijp u niet." The young man looked at Archer with confusion. He raised his makeshift weapon again as he noticed Trip inching forward towards Malcolm. Archer signaled Trip to remain still. He turned back to the young man.
"I have a translator, in my pocket. I'm going to take it out okay?" Archer talked slowly and calmly, despite his concern for both his crewmember and dog. The man said nothing but watched with almost black eyes as Archer removed the device. He held it up for him to see. "I need you to continue to talk. To make it work."
The strange man stared at the machine and then at Archer. "Ik begrijp niet nog. Waarom bent hier u? What is that thing suppose to do?"
"There," Archer smiled as the man's words turned to English. "Can you understand me?"
"Yes," The young man's voice had a warm lilt to it. "How?"
"It's called a Universal translator, an invention of my people. May I ask if I can check on my crewman?" Archer gestured to Malcolm who was now groaning as he struggled to sit up.
The young man held the stick tightly. "Are you planning on hurting the animal as well?"
Archer's face paled. "What? No. He's my pet"
"Oh. The way you were chasing it I thought you were hunting it." He blushed, his cheeks turning almost brown. He turned to Malcolm who was now sitting up. "I apologize for striking you."
"Think nothing of it." Malcolm grunted, holding a hand to his bleeding forehead. Trip moved swiftly to the fallen man's side but Malcolm pushed him off. "I'm fine. I've been hit harder in sparring practice."
Trip frowned but moved off, turning his attention to the stick wielding young man. "Who exactly are you?"
Archer, who had taken the opportunity to reattach the lead of Porthos' collar, looked up, also curious.
"My name is Beck and that," he motioned to the gray dog who was now pestering Malcolm for attention," is Grijze, my pet. We crashed on this planet a month ago. I did not think there were any other people here."
"There aren't," Archer said, standing. "Our scans didn't detect anything. In fact they didn't even detect you."
"Ah," Beck smiled, touching a metallic box that hung from a cord around his neck. "This is why. We used this to mask our bio signs."
"Really?" Malcolm was on his feet now, intrigue flashing in his gray eyes. "Would you mind letting me look at one of those?"
Archer interrupted. "Why do you want to hide your bio signs if you crashed here? Surely that'd make rescuing you a lot harder?"
Beck looked unsure for a moment before answering simply. "My people are involved in constant civil wars, it is out of habit that we wear these. I had not remembered we still had them till you pointed out your scan results."
Archer wasn't truly convinced by Beck's explanation but he let it go for now. "Our shuttle pod isn't far from here. Perhaps you and Grijze would like to return with us?" He regarded the two, both dirty and underfed by the looks of it, "it seems you two could use a hot bath and a good meal."
Beck's face brightened at the suggestion. "Thank you Captain, it would be an honor."
* * *
After securing the enamored Porthos is his quarters and away from his strange new friend, Archer made his way down to sickbay to check on his armory officer and new guest. He entered sickbay to find both Malcolm and Beck seated on biobeds. Malcolm was in the midst of arguing with Doctor Phlox, insisting he was fine to return to duty. Beck however was sitting perfectly still, hands folding in his lap, patiently waiting. Archer had never seen a humanoid creature that could sit so still. If it weren't for his breathing and blinking one would swear that Beck was not alive at all. He had changed out of his soiled clothes into some sweats, which still seemed rather baggy on his thin frame. He had obviously taken advantage of the facilities, his long black hair hanging over his shoulder, slightly damp. Archer marveled at the color. Dirty it had just seemed a dull black but clean it gleamed with an almost navy blue tint. The young man was still barefoot and Grijze sat panting at his feet.
Archer smiled as he approached the young man, bending to pat Grijze's head briefly. "Did Phlox not have any shoes in your size?"
Beck looked at the Captain with his black eyes. "Oh yes. I declined. My feet are very strong and I would prefer to remain barefoot. If that is alright."
Archer cast a look of puzzlement over at Phlox but nodded to Beck. "Sure I guess. I can't see any harm in that." He then turned to address the alien physician. "How are your patients doing?"
The cheery Denobulan turned from his fussing with Malcolm to address the Captain. "Lieutenant Reed here will be fine. Luckily he did not suffer a concussion. I am suggesting though he take the rest of the day off. Though I am meeting some difficulty on that point."
Malcolm shot a pleading look to Archer. "I'm fine Sir."
Archer shook his head. "You heard the doc Malcolm. I don't want to see you at your post for another 24 hours. Is that understood?"
The British man frowned but conceded. "Aye Sir."
Phlox smiled then moved to where Beck was seated. "As for this young man, my scans show that he is fine though perhaps a bit underweight after his experiences on the planet. But nothing a few meals from Chef couldn't cure. Both he and his companion, " Phlox smiled down at the dog," are in perfect health."
Beck smiled and bowed his head slightly. "Thank you Doctor."
"You're quite welcome. It's not often I have such an agreeable patient." He shot a glance at the retreating Malcolm then smiled. "Now if you two shall excuse me, I have many planet samples I wish to catalogue."
Archer nodded and turned to Beck. "We're planning to remain in orbit around the planet for a few more days yet. My crew has been needing a break and some haven't had a chance to head to the surface yet. After that we'll be more then ready to get you and Grijze back to your home world, once you show us the way."
Beck smiled but looked slightly uncomfortable. "Truth be told Captain, I am in no rush to return to my own world. As I said before, it is not a very hospitable place at the moment. Perhaps you and your crew could simply drop us at the next warp ready world you encounter?"
Archer raised an eyebrow, but smiled. "I'm sure that can be arranged. But until then you'll need a place to sleep," Beck stomach grumbled and Archer laughed softly as he blushed a bit, "and something to eat. Let's see what we can do about that."
Beck rose from the biobed, smiling brightly. "Thank you Captain. Please lead the way."
* * *
Soon Archer and Beck were seated in the Mess Hall, Grijze curled up at Beck's feet. Beck was contently tucking into his third serving of Chef's famous pork roast while Archer sat back watching in awe as the young man ate.
"So where exactly are you from?" Archer asked as Beck paused in chewing, reaching for a glass of milk.
Beck swallowed. "It is a planet called Papatine. I am not completely sure of the distance from here but I was traveling at warp 2 for nearly six weeks before my engines suffered a massive failure and I was forced to land here." He gulped back the milk, pausing to wipe politely at his mouth. Archer marveled at the combination of veracious appetite and polite table manners.
"You say your world suffers from constant civil wars. Is that the reason you left?"
Beck again looked uncomfortable. "Yes, that affected my leaving."
Archer was about to ask Beck what he meant when Trip approached the table, tray in hand. "I'm glad I got here in time. Looks like Beck was set to empty the galley."
Beck blushed, "I hope I have not taken more then was allowed."
Archer waved Trip to join them then smiled at Beck. "Don't worry about it Beck, Trip's just teasing."
Trip nodded, "Ya, don't mind me." He looked at Archer, trying to hide the concern in his voice. "How's Malcolm?"
Archer sipped at his water. "He's fine, but the Doc made him take the rest of the day off. He's in his quarters if you wanted to see him."
Trip shrugged, "Ah'm sure he's fine." Beck's dark eyes watched the commander for a moment but he said nothing, moving to finish the green beans still on his plate. Archer, failing to notice Trip's change on mood leaned back in his chair.
"Beck is planning on catching a lift with us to the next inhabited planet, although with the luck we've been having that might not be for awhile. Maybe you'd like to show him around after lunch. If you're not to busy."
Trip brightened, always eager to show off "his" ship. "Heck no Captain, sounds like a great idea. You up for it Beck?"
Beck nodded. "That sounds intriguing Commander."
"Call me Trip. Ah'm not big on formalities. Heck most people around here prefer to be called by their names cept maybe the Captain here." Trip grinned at the Captain, obviously having a go at him.
Archer stood. "Some of us, Commander," he stressed the rank, smiling despite himself, "believe in keeping things at least somewhat professional around here. Anyway I have to go over some reports with T'pol. Enjoy your tour Beck, and we'll talk more later."
"Yes Captain. I look forward to it." Beck smiled brightly up at him and Archer couldn't help but notice he felt a slight flutter in his stomach. Brushing it off, he nodded at the two men and made his way out and towards the bridge.
* * *
The tour ended up taking nearly most of the afternoon. Trip found himself thoroughly enjoying playing tour guide for Beck, showing him Enterprise from top to bottom. Trip found it easy to talk to Beck. He was so receptive, making Trip feel that every word he said was important to the young man. He seemed to be the most attentive listener Trip had ever encountered. The two ended up in engineering last with Trip explaining in detail the warp engines. While it was obvious that Beck lacked the scientific knowledge of Trip, he listened politely, asking the right questions to show Trip his words weren't falling of deaf ears. It wasn't until Trip noticed Beck's heavy lids and that fact he was wavering a bit on his feet did the engineer realize perhaps it was time to show Beck his new quarters.
Beck bid Trip goodnight before sitting down on the soft bunk. He reached a slim hand out and rubbed Grijze's head. The dog looked up at him with similar dark eyes.
"What do you think dear heart? They are very nice people are they not?"
The gray shaggy dog leaped onto Beck's lap. He continued to rub her head. "What do you think of Archer eh?" He looked down at the animal that was now laying down on his knees. "He is very gentle. I can see that in his eyes. His crew respects him too. That is easy to see. So very different then from home." Beck shuddered and felt Grijze curl up closer to him. He smiled down at his companion. "I am fine Grijze. I look forward to learning more about these humans. It is a welcome change." With that Beck moved to lay down, Grijze moving to lay beside him, the two falling into a deep sleep almost instantly.
* * *
Archer sat in his quarters. Pressing a button on the consol by his desk he began to record his daily log.
"Captain's log. We've spent the last five days in orbit around an uninhabited planet, which the crew is affectionately referring to as Sherwood, despite Lieutenant Reed's protests. The chance to get off the ship has done the crew a world of good but I don't think it can be given complete credit. Our new guest Beck seems as well to be having a positive affect on the crew, drawing attention and conversation from even the most reluctant personal. I to have had the chance to talk at lengths with him and I have to admit, he's extremely easy to talk to."
Archer paused, finding himself feeling a bit flushed thinking about the long late night talk the two had shared, watching the stars from one of the many windows. He cleared his throat and continued. " Beck has been working with Hoshi to learn out language and is now speaking and reading Basic English. Hoshi is amazed at his progress and suggests he'll soon be able to read our language as well as any school child back on Earth. He also appears talented in music. Last night he and Crewman Cutter were playing guitar in the mess hall. I've been told that Beck is quite talented though I have yet to hear him play. Despite all this I still know little about him. I talked with T'pol. The Vulcans have heard of his planet but have spent no time there, viewing its people as hostile and unenlightened. Though after meeting Beck I find that hard to believe. Still he seems extremely reluctant to talk about himself or his life before his shuttle crashed. "
Archer stood and paced a bit, gathering his thoughts. "I don't think he is hiding anything but I find it so strange that someone that inspired others to be so open around him, is so closed about himself. Perhaps he simply needs time to feel comfortable around us. According to our sensors it will be another two weeks before we arrive at the next star system. That, I hope, will be plenty of time." Archer reached to click off the recording and turned his attention to Porthos who was whining at the door.
"What to visit Grijze? Okay let's go." He opened the door and let the dog bound ahead down the hall
* * *
Malcolm sat at a station in the armory, tools spread out on the counter before him. In his hands he held one of the metallic boxes Beck had used back on the planet's surface. He was in the slow involved process of taking it apart.
Malcolm hadn't been sure what to make of Beck. Granted it didn't help that their first meeting had resulted in him laying on his ass in front of the Captain and Commander Tucker. Nor did it help when he had watched Trip giving Beck his tour. Malcolm, despite himself, had felt annoyed at the affection Trip seemed to be showing the alien. And he felt a pang of jealousy at the thought that perhaps Trip had replaced him as a friend. It was a silly thought but Trip's odd moods and open hostility these past weeks seemed a clear indication that whatever Malcolm had thought was there between the two wasn't. The problem was Malcolm had no idea what had caused it to disappear.
But as the days moved on Malcolm had gotten to know Beck. Beck had approached him the second morning after his arrival while the lieutenant was having breakfast. After apologizing for nearly the twentieth time for hitting him, the two spent nearly an hour talking. Well more so Malcolm talking and Beck listening attentively. With Trip so distant, it was nice to have someone to confide in. When Malcolm had asked Beck about the metal boxes and how the worked Beck shrugged sheepishly.
"The truth is Malcolm, I do not know how they work. I have no head for science. I am lucky I managed to keep my ship together as it is. But you are more then welcome to see for yourself."
Malcolm had tried every known scan he could think of, using both his equipment and even the Doctor's, but nothing seemed to be able to penetrate the box's exterior. After getting permission from Beck, Malcolm had decided that figuring out this box would require a more hands on approach. He was about to fire up a plasma torch when he heard footsteps behind him. Turning, he was surprised to see Commander Tucker standing there.
The Commander stood, arms crossed, practically pulsating with annoyance. "You're energy consumption reports are late."
Malcolm stood slowly, carefully putting down the box on the counter. "I was going to drop them off at the beginning of my shift. You never had a problem with that before."
"Ya well, Ah changed my mind. Just hand them over so Ah can get back to work okay?"
Malcolm's expression darkened. He had had enough. Whatever he might have done, he did not deserve to be treated like this. He turned to stare at the Commander. "Commander Tucker, I don't appreciate your attitude."
Trip's face began to flush and his nostrils flared. "My attitude? Now listen here..."
Malcolm cut him off. "For the last few days you have been nothing but rude and hostile towards me. In fact ever since Enterprise rescued us from the shuttle pod you've gone out of your way to make me feel unwelcome around you. I demand to know why."
"You demand?" Trip was now standing inches from Reed's face, "You of all people have no right to demand anything from me. Not after what happened."
A look of pained confusion fell across the short man's face. He shook is head, trying in vain to figure out just what Trip was referring to. "What are you talking about? Is this about the airlock? I was only doing what I thought was best."
"No it's not about the fucking airlock," Trip practically roared, his whole body tense with anger. Despite himself Malcolm took a step back. Trip stood there a moment; breathing hard, and then seemed to shrink back, hand to his eyes. "Fine Malcolm. If that's how you want to play things, that's just fine. Nothing happened." Without another word he turned, leaving a very confused Amory officer in his wake.
"What in bloody hell is going on." Malcolm whispered to himself, sinking back down into his chair, surprised to find himself near tears. Rubbing at his face, he attempted to compose himself, turning his attention back to the box.
In the shadows of the corridor Beck watched silently. He had witnessed the entire altercation. Silently he retreated the same way he came, fists clenched, eyes filled with determination.
* * *
Trip lay on his bunk, still fully dressed. He stared listlessly at the ceiling, searching for answers amongst the metal plating. He hadn't meant to loose it like that in front of Malcolm. But he was just so frustrated with him, and not to mention hurt. He sighed, weighing the options of trying to get some sleep versus attacking the new warp relay replacements when the chime sounded at his door. Half hoping it was Malcolm; Trip hopped up off the bunk and opened the door. He was surprised to find Beck standing there. Trip rubbed at his face, leaning against the doorframe.
"Hey Beck, now's not a real good time for a visit."
Beck stepped into the older man's quarters, pushing past the Commander, letting the door hiss shut behind him. He looked up at Trip with his black eyes. "What happened on the shuttle pod?"
Trip took a step back. "What?"
Beck continued to gaze up at the Commander. "What happened on the shuttle pod?"
Trip frowned. "Listen if Malcolm sent you..."
Beck shook his head, "Malcolm does not know I am here. What happened on the shuttle pod?"
"Listen Beck, Ah think it'd be best if you just left okay? Ah don't really want to talk about it." Up until now Beck had shown the utmost respect towards the crew of the Enterprise. But it was obvious now Trip's request was falling on deaf ears. Beck held his ground.
"What happened on the shuttle pod?"
Trip stepped forward, trying to use his size to force Beck back towards the door. When he didn't move, Trip raised his hand, pointing a finger in Beck's face. "Listen, you're about two seconds away from me punching your lights out. Would you shut up already and go. This ain't none of your business. "
Beck didn't even flinch, just continued to hold Trip's gaze, black eyes staring into blue. "I am use to being hit, that is not a concern. What happened on the shuttle pod?"
Trip blinked, caught off guard by Beck's statement. He opened his mouth to say something, and then stepped back, sinking onto his bunk. "You're not going to let this go are you?"
Beck moved to sit on Trip's desk chair, facing the Commander. "You need to talk. Please, tell me what happened."
Trip scrubbed at his face with his hands, as if trying to wash away the anger he had been feeling. With a long sigh Trip began. "Okay we were on the shuttle pod ya see, hoping Enterprise would find us. Malcolm had just forced me to sit back down beside him, insisting we face whatever was going to happen together..."
***
The shuttle pod drifted slowly in space. The two men had grown silent, shivering beside each other, both to tired to keep any sort of conversation going for the last little while. Trip glanced over and noticed Malcolm's lips turning a bluish tinge.
"Mal," he croaked softly. "Lay closer t'me. We can conserve more body heat that way."
Malcolm grunted and feebly attempted to shift closer towards the Commander. Without thinking Trip moved and wrapped his arms around the smaller man, pulling him close. Malcolm stiffened at first then relaxed in the southern man's embrace. Trip wrapped his own blanket around the two of them.
"Better?"
"A bit" Malcolm slurred between chattering teeth.
"Sorry ah ain't T'pol" Trip chided.
Malcolm let out a soft laugh, closing his eyes for a moment, resting his head on Trip's shoulder. Trip felt his heart beat a little faster at the intimacy of the gesture. He coughed and continued. "Ya know, ah don't really see T'pol as your type."
"And what...is...my type...Commander?" Malcolm's voice was heavy with fatigue, the cold and lack of oxygen leaving him lightheaded.
"Oh ah dunno. Ah always was kinda hoping maybe, ah dunno," Trip sighed, tripping over his own words. "Ah was always kinda hoping your type was blond engineers."
"Mnmm?" Malcolm shifted to look up at Trip, a look of sleepy confusion on his face.
"Aw what the hell," Trip said, more to himself then to Malcolm. "Malcolm, listen, truth is, Ah've got a crush on you, something fierce. Ah don't know if you feel the same way that ah do, but well, ah think ah love you." Trip looked down to see Malcolm's head resting back on his shoulder. He had expected the man to hit him or push him away. What happened next caught him completely off guard. He felt Malcolm shift slightly in his arms, his lips briefly brushing against Trip's cheek.
"... love you too.." He whispered, head slumping back onto Trip's shoulder, leaving Trip to marvel at what had just happened. Before he had a chance to respond, Trip had passed out, still holding Malcolm close.
***
Beck sat forward in the chair, listening intently to Trip's explanation. Beck was confused. "If he responded in kind, why are you so angry with him?"
Trip looked up, his anger now replaced with a look of disappointment. "That's just it. As soon as we returned, before Ah had even a chance to say anything he comes up to me and goes, "Commander considering our behavior I think it'd be wise to forget everything that happened on the shuttle." Like what I said to him meant absolutely nothing. So excuse me if I'm not exactly happy with Lieutenant Cold as Ice Reed right now"
Beck sat back, hands folded on his lap. "So you never talked about the kiss?"
"No, like I said. He just wants to forget the whole thing happened."
"Maybe it is just the opposite. Maybe he does not remember."
Trip looked at Beck like he had grown an extra head. "C'mon. You don't just forget someone telling you that they're in love with you."
"You were both suffering from extreme cold, fatigue and lack of air. You yourself said that Malcolm seemed out of it when you spoke."
Trip rubbed the back of his head. "Ya but he said he loved me too. Heck, he kissed me."
Beck regarded Trip, his voice soothing but rational. "Do not love ones reach out to each other in their sleep? Could that not be the case?"
Trip dropped his head down for a moment then squinted up at Beck. "You really think he doesn't remember?"
Beck stood slowly, approaching the bunk. "I can not say for certain. But from what I have seen in these last few days, I do not think he would be so quick to dismiss your confession if he was aware of it. I think Trip, that you need to speak to him, openly and honestly."
Trip scoffed a bit. "Great. I'm sure he'd love to talk to me now, after acting like such a jackass in the armory."
Beck placed a thin hand on Trip's shoulder. "I am not sure what a jack ass is, but I have a feeling that if you present yourself to him as you have to me, he will listen," Beck smiled softly at his friend, "and I also have a feeling that you will find that even if he does not remember, his words in the shuttle pod were true."
Trip's eyes widened for a moment, before nodding. "Thanks Beck. I think I'll go see if he's still up." Trip stood and the two exited his quarters.
* * *
Trip stood nervously outside of Malcolm's quarters. After his talk with Beck he had felt determined to face Malcolm openly and honestly about what had happened. But now, outside his door, Trip felt like a child who had been sent to the principal's office. He bounced nervously on his feet, biting his lip. Finally he reached forward and pushed the chine outside Malcolm's door. Trip waited nervously, pushing back the impulse to turn tail and run. After a few beats the door hissed open revealing a surprised looking Malcolm, dressed in a t-shirt and sweat pants. He stared at Trip, his eyes rid rimmed.
"Commander?"
Trip rubbed the back of his head. "Um hey Malcolm."
Malcolm frowned. "If you are planning on yelling at me some more Commander, perhaps it could wait until morning?"
Trip winced, but he deserved that. "Listen. Ah'm sorry about before. Can we talk?"
Trip could see Malcolm weighing the options. With a resigned sigh he stepped back. "Fine."
Trip stepped inside, still bouncing nervously on the balls of his feet. Malcolm moved to lean against his desk. Folding his arms over his chest he regarded the fidgeting Commander with hard gray eyes. "So. Talk."
Trip sighed and sat down on the edge of Malcolm's bed without thinking. "Listen. Like ah said, ah'm sorry about before. Ah overreacted, but you gotta understand, ah had my reasons."
"And what would that be Commander?" Malcolm asked, his voice clipped and hard.
Trip sighed, slapping his hands on his knees, staring at the floor. He looked up slowly. "What's the last thing you remember back on the shuttle pod?"
"My last recollection was trying to keep you from sealing yourself away in a foolish attempt to play boy hero then I woke up in Sickbay."
"Are you sure? You don't remember anything else?"
Malcolm shook his head, looking up at the ceiling in exasperation. "What am I suppose to be remembering? You've been at me since we got back from that bloody shuttlecraft and I am sick and tired of playing these games. What is going on Commander Tucker?"
Trip dropped his gaze back to the floor, hands resting on his knees, clutching the material of his jumpsuit. "Back on the shuttle pod, before Enterprise found us, Ah...Ah told you Ah was falling in love with you."
The silence in Malcolm's quarters was deafening. Trip kept his gaze locked on the floor, not wanting to face his friend's reaction.
"Oh," Malcolm's voice was soft, colored with shock. "How did I respond?"
"You...you kissed me, and said you loved me too."
Malcolm's eyes grew and he swallowed hard, his mouth suddenly dry. "Oh." Realization hit him like a phaser blast. He remembered telling Trip to forget all about their experience, embarrassed by his sulking on the pod. Malcolm had no idea at the time that such an exchange had occurred. The reason for Trip's anger, the hostility, everything, was more then painfully clear. He looked at his friend, hunched over on the edge of his bed, gaze still fixed on the floor. The silence in the quarters hung around the two like a thick fog.
Trip sighed and rubbed the back of his head again, gaze fixed on his boots. "Well, there it is. What do we do now?"
"There's only one thing we can do."
Trip winced. He should have realized this would happen. He should have realized Malcolm didn't feel the same way he did. Beck was wrong. This had been a horrible idea. He hard Malcolm move closer. He braced himself. "What's that?"
Trip felt Malcolm's fingers come up under his chin. He tilted the Commanders face up to look into his own. Leaning forward his lips met Trip's in a kiss far more passionate then the quick peck he had received on the pod. Trip's eyes widened then closed as he lost himself to the kiss. After what felt like eternity Malcolm leaned back, a coy smile on the British man's face. Trip gasped slightly. "Malcolm?"
"If I'm going to get in trouble for a kiss, I'd like to be able to remember it."
Trip laughed softly and Malcolm sat beside him on the bed. "Then, you do, feel the same way about me?"
Malcolm's cheeks colored slightly and he nodded. "I have, for awhile now. Just, never had the courage to say anything. I was afraid you'd be, less then receptive. I haven't exactly had positive experience with relationships of this nature."
"Oh god Malcolm. Ah've been a damn fool. If Ah only had said something. Ah've treated you so badly these last few days."
"Commander. Trip," Malcolm corrected himself. "If anything I should apologize. I should have realized something was troubling you. You must have thought I was playing with your feelings the way I was acting."
Trip put a hand on Malcolm's shoulder, massaging it gently, almost giddy with the excitement of being able to be close with him. "It wasn't your fault. Ah'm the idiot here."
Malcolm smiled. "How about we both agree we were idiots and start over?"
Trip nodded. "Where should we begin?"
Malcolm leaned in for another kiss. "Right. About. Here"
* * *
A few hours later the two lay back on Malcolm's bed. Malcolm rested his head on Trip's now bare chest as Trip stroked the armory officer's dark hair. "Now that," he said, voice thick with contentment. "Was bloody brilliant."
"Mmhmmm," Trip agreed, a goofy grin on his face. "Remind me to buy Beck a thank you present."
Malcolm looked up at Trip. "Thank you? For what?"
"For getting me to stop acting like a sulky teenager. He musta seen our fight in the armory. He came by my quarters. Wouldn't leave till Ah talked to him. Heck, I nearly took a swing at him."
Malcolm's face pinched in worry. "You didn't hit him did you?"
"Of course not," Trip said, outraged. He then grew silent, brows furrowing.
"Trip? What is it?"
"Something Beck said while he was in my room. Ah didn't really give it any thought till now. He said he was use to being hit."
"Really?" It was Malcolm's turn to frown. "Perhaps we should mention that to the Captain." Malcolm yawned, snuggling closer to Trip. "He seems to have grown quite close to the young man these last few days."
"Mmm," Trip nodded, though still lost in thought.
"What are we going to say to the Captain? You know, about this, about us?"
Trip shrugged. "Ah dunno. He'll probably just be sore that Ah got you first."
"Trip!" Malcolm gasped, wide grin of his face.
"Ah've seen the way he stares at you in deacon. Make no mistake, Ah'll tell him plain and simple that you're mine now."
Malcolm chuckled at Trip's teasing. "Seriously. Do you think he'll have a problem with this?"
"Ah doubt it. Ah mean, Ah know there's Starfleet rules about fraternizing, but there are already about five couples aboard the ship already."
"Nine."
Trip glanced down at Malcolm. "Nine?"
"Well ten if you count Porthos and Grijze." Malcolm smiled at the surprised look on trip's face. "Don't be so shocked. I am the chief of security. It's best I know what's going on."
"Well anyway. Like Ah said. Ah doubt the captain will care about one more couple."
"Is that what we are then? A couple?"
Trip stroked Malcolm's cheek. "Ah'd like that. Would you?"
Malcolm smiled and closed his eyes. "Very much." Trip smiled and held the smaller man close as he drifted off to sleep.
* * *
Days turned into weeks as the Enterprise continued along. They had yet to come across another warp culture yet Archer was not as impatient as he had been. In truth, he was secretly relived. He wasn't in a hurry to see Beck go. The young man seemed to fit so well amongst his crew that the idea of just dropping him off somewhere left Archer feeling unsettled. He assured himself that it was because of the crew's reaction to Beck that fueled his want to keep him on Enterprise, nothing more. It helped that Archer had other distractions. The news of Trip and Malcolm's new relationship did not take long to reach him. Though it helped catching them making out in the mess hall late one night. Archer surprised them both by being pleased about the situation. He was never one for the "no fraternizing rule". That worked on other vessels in the past, both with the Enterprise breaking ground in science and exploration it only made sense to Archer that it should break ground culturally and socially as well. Not that he hadn't warned the two to keep their professional and private lives separate. No, despite the stillness of space, life on the Enterprise seemed to be going quite smoothly.
Archer found himself walking past the mess hall when he noticed a few crew members rushing to enter, catching the attention of Hoshi and Travis he smiled at them. "What's going on?"
"Oh hi Captain," Hoshi smiled. "Beck and Liz are giving an impromptu concert in the mess hall."
"Really?" Archer turned. "I have to see this." He followed the two Ensigns into the mess hall, joining the handful of crew that had already filled in. Crewman Cutter and Beck were sitting in a corner; a makeshift stage area had been cleared for them. Both held acoustic guitars, Beck have received one recently from Trip. With a nod from Liz the two began to play. Archer didn't recognize the song, but as Beck began to sing he found himself drawn by his voice.
"Full moon sways
Gently in the night of one fine day.
On my way
Looking for a moment with my dear.
Full moon waves
Slowly on the surface on the lake
You are there
Smiling in my arms for all those years.
What a fool
I don't know about tomorrow
What it's like to be.
Ah ahhh
I was sure
Couldn't let myself to go
Even though I feel
The end.
Oh my fair
Floating like a bird that's in her wings
You are there
Smiling in my arms for all those years.
What a fool
I don't know about tomorrow
What's it like to be
Ah ahhhh
I was sure
Couldn't let myself to go
Even though I feel
The end.
Full moon sways
Gently in the night of one fine day
You are there
Smiling in my arms for all those years."
The group of crewman clapped as Liz and Beck finished the song. Archer quickly turned to leave before anyone noticed. He felt his face flush. He realized that it wasn't because of the crew he wanted Beck to remain on board. He wanted Beck to remain. He wanted Beck, and he wasn't certain that that was a good thing.
* * *
Archer made his way down the corridor, padd in hand. He was reviewing next week's duty roister as he made his way towards his quarters. He chuckled as he scrolled past the names, noting that Trip and Malcolm were coordinating their schedules to get time off at the same time. It didn't surprise him. Most of the couples on Enterprise either tried to be on or off duty at the same time if they could help it. Archer wasn't blind to this and didn't mind. He'd rather people be happy at their posts then watching the clocks as it were. Archer was just reviewing the Engineering staff when he reached his door. Without looking he keyed in his door code and stepped in.
"Welcome home Captain,"
Archer looked up in shock to see Beck standing in his quarters, Porthos and Grijze curled up asleep on Archer's bunk. Beside him sat a small table set for two with two tall pillar candles in the middle. On each plate sat a steak, baked potatoes and salad. Beck stood, watching Archer. He had dressed for the occasion as well. His sweats had been exchanged for a baggy dress shirt and slacks, obviously borrowed from another crewmember. Still bare foot, his long hair and been pulled back in a neat loose braid that hung over one shoulder. In the warm candlelight his caramel skin seemed to glow. Archer stood there speechless, taking in the sight.
Beck wrung his slim hands nervously. "Uh, Malcolm let me in. He did not think you would mind. I wanted to treat you to a special dinner, as a thank you."
Archer caught himself starring and quickly moved to turn, placing down his padd on his desk. "I defiantly am surprised. You didn't have to go to all this trouble."
"It was not any trouble. Chef was very helpful in the preparation of the food and Trip helped me set up." Beck smiled at Archer. "Do you like the clothes? Trip said this is consider human formal ware."
The last thing Archer needed was another reason to look at Beck but he did, nodding in approval. "They look good on you."
Beck blushed a bit and smiled. "Come, sit. Chef said this was your favorite meal."
Awkwardly Archer settled in one of the two seats. Beck slipped into the other. Instead of opposite ends the chairs has been placed nearly touching and Beck's knee brushed against Archer's, sending shivers up the Captain's spine. He smiled at Beck and began to cut into the steak. Beck watched him, head cocked to one side, content smile on the alien man's face. After a few bites Archer looked at Beck. "Aren't you going to eat too?"
"Oh!" Beck blushed again and quickly busied himself, digging into his own supper. The two ate in silence, a nervous tension floating in the air of the quarters. Soon both plates were empty. Archer leaned back in his seat.
"That was defiantly an amazing meal Beck. Thank you."
Beck leaned closer, slowly placing a hand on Archer's knee. "I am glad you enjoyed it. I want you to be pleased."
Archer sat frozen, his gaze shifting from Beck's hand to his eyes. Beck's black eyes seemed to draw Archer in. They seemed to hold such open warmth and promise that Archer couldn't look away. He leaned closer to Beck, his heart beating faster. Beck filled the gap and his lips quickly found Archer's. Archer's eyes closed as Beck kissed his passionately. Beck's other hand reached up to caress his face. Archer felt himself swoon at Beck's tender but forceful kiss.
Suddenly a barrage of thoughts assaulted Archer's mind. Gently he pushed away. Beck sat back, a look of pained confusion on his face.
Archer sat back. "I'm sorry."
"Did I do something wrong?" Beck fought to keep the panic out of his voice.
Archer stood, moving to pace slightly, body tense. "No. It's not your fault Beck." Archer rubbed his face. "I won't deny the fact that I feel something for you as well."
It was Beck's turn to stand, confusion mingling with frustration in his voice. "Then what is wrong?"
"It's just, it's inappropriate. It just wouldn't be right. You can see that can't you?"
Beck stood in silence, fists clenched at his side, his face fighting to remain neutral in expression. "Oh." Beck's voice was flat. "I, I am sorry I troubled you Captain. I promise it will not happen again. I will be back to get Grijze in the morning." Without another word Beck calmly left.
Archer watched the door hiss closed behind him. Smacking himself on the forehead he sank to the floor of his quarters. "Damnit."
* * *
"So that was another thrilling movie." Hoshi rolled her eyes as she, Trip and Malcolm strolled down one of Enterprise's many corridors.
"Oh you're just sour because it wasn't one of those love story pictures" Malcolm smiled, having quite enjoyed the movie himself.
"Yes and you only liked it because there was an explosion almost ever ten minutes."
Trip raised his hands in mock defense. "Children please. If you can't behave ah'll have to send you both to bed."
Hoshi grinned devilishly. "Like that's a punishment for Malcolm, considering who he shares his with."
Malcolm blushed brightly. "Hoshi!"
Trip just grinned. "She's got a point Malcolm."
Malcolm glared at trip. "Don't encourage her. I swear while I don't mind my friends knowing about our romance I didn't necessarily want them living vicariously through it."
"Hey now," Hoshi poked Malcolm in the shoulder. "Who said anything about living vicariously through you two?"
Now it was Malcolm's turn to grin devilishly. "Well I don't see you out there trying to find someone for yourself hmm?"
"Now he's got a point Hoshi."
Hoshi whacked Trip and glared at Malcolm. "So I haven't dated much. I haven't exactly found the right person you know."
The trio rounded the corner and headed towards the mess hall, deciding to grab a late night snack before retiring. Trip shrugged. "There's Beck. Ah noticed you two get along rather nice."
Hoshi laughed as they approached the door. "Yes well. He is rather yummy looking. But anyone can see he's only got eyes for the Captain."
"Speaking of which," Trip reached to signal the door to open. "I wonder how their little rendezvous went."
"Probably snogging up a storm as we..." Malcolm paused mid sentence as the trio entered the mess hall. There in the far corner sat Beck, back to the group, hunched over the table, head resting on folded arms. "...speak."
The trio stood for a moment looking at each other. Finally Trip moved towards Beck, with Hoshi and Malcolm trailing behind. Beck showed no sign of noticing their approach. Trip bit his lip. "Hey Beck." He said, trying to keep his tone casual.
Beck raised his head from his arms and looked up at the three. His black eyes were rimmed with red, tears freely falling down his cheeks. He haphazardly wiped at his face. "Hi Trip," His voice a hoarse whisper.
Trip winced inwardly at the sight. Beck was normally so happy and peaceful, seeing him so visibly upset was enough to bring Trip almost to tears. Hoshi and Malcolm stood behind Trip, equally upset at the young man's appearance. "What happened?"
Beck sniffed and wiped again at his eyes. "I should have known better. I made a fool of myself."
Trip moved to kneel down beside Beck. He placed a hand on the young man's shoulder. "What happened Beck?"
"He said it was inappropriate. Of course it is. A person like him with a person like me. I should have seen that. I should have realize," Beck's voice began to break and he babbled on. "Even without being told he knew I was wrong. Inappropriate," Beck repeated the word softly," not conforming to accepted standards of propriety or taste. He is right. That is what I am." Beck laid his head back onto his folded arms and began to sob.
Trip raised an eyebrow, at a loss as to what to say. Glancing at his lover he noticed Malcolm's jaw clenched in anger. Trip's own annoyance with the Captain was replaced with fear of what Malcolm was itching to do to him. Hoshi moved forward and gently wrapped her arms around Beck. "Shh it's okay." She said softly. "Why don't we head back to your room? I'll stay with you if you'd like."
Beck lifted his head and nodded slowly. Hoshi helped him up and the two made their way out of the hall, Beck clinging to Hoshi like a lifeboat. Trip looked at Malcolm, who's gaze was fixed on Hoshi and Beck as they left. He let out a long sigh.
"Well, that could have gone better. What the heck was Jon thinking?"
Malcolm didn't respond. His jaw was still clenched as well as his fists. Trip knew Malcolm had grown close to Beck, almost viewing him as a younger brother. He also knew how fiercely protective Malcolm was of the people he cared about. Trip reached and touched his shoulder. "Mal?"
"I'm fine Trip." Malcolm said, voice clipped with anger. "But tomorrow, we talk to the Captain."
Trip nodded, folding his arms over his chest. "Agreed."
* * *
end part 5