Course Correction Studio

Tag: Danielle Janeway

  • Edge of Heaven – Chapter 1. The Frying Pan

    Story #8 in the “More Than a Lifetime” series

    Author’s Note: This story is the eighth in a series of stories that do not follow canon and should not be taken as such. The previous stories, in order, are: 1) Delta Wild, 2) Homecoming, 3) Graduation, 4) A Love Less Ordinary, 5) Return to Normal, 6) Sweetest Sin, and 7) Deliberation. The events in these stories occur in an alternate universe in which Chakotay’s stint with the Maquis happened much earlier in his life. He is married to Kathryn Janeway, and they have a daughter. In this universe, Voyager did not combine with a crew from a Maquis ship, but instead reached the Delta Quadrant with a small loss of life and most of her crew in tact. The events of “First Contact” and “Insurrection” have already occurred in this timeline, but “Nemesis” has not. The Dominion War occurred, but with vastly different results. Many of the events of the final season of Deep Space Nine didn’t occur, which means the characters who died during the season are not dead in my stories. Please overlook any other inconsistencies or errors pertaining to the original Star Trek universe as the author’s ignorance.

    This story contains mature themes, language, and sexual situations.

    Disclaimer: All the characters, except Dani and other original characters who do not appear on screen or in print elsewhere, belong to Paramount. I do not own them or claim to. This story was produced and is presented purely for the enjoyment of the readers. I don’t make any money from this, and this story may not be used for any such purpose. If you wish to use my story for purposes other than monetary gain, please do so, as long as my name and this disclaimer remain attached to it.

    1. THE FRYING PAN

    Lt. Commander Danielle Janeway gazed through the tall windows in the Enterprise E’s observation lounge. Deep Space Nine provided the view. The Enterprise had been docked there for the last two days on a scheduled maintenance stop. Dani hadn’t set foot on the station, yet, though she was eager to catch up with some old friends over there. At the moment, she sat in the Enterprise’s observation lounge, trying to figure out why on Earth she was there. She’d been summoned by Captain Picard, but he was no where in sight as of yet. Commander William Riker’s entrance made little difference. He was almost always present at Enterprise staff meetings regardless of the topic. He sat down in his usual chair, near the head of the table where Picard’s chair was parked.

    Dani swiveled to face Will. “I didn’t think we had a meeting today. Do you know what this is about?”

    Will shook his head. “No clue. I thought you might know.”

    “You would know better than I would, First Officer. Why would I know?”

    The doors to the room swished open, and Captain Chakotay and Commander Tuvok entered.

    Her father had been the last person in the galaxy Dani had expected to walk into the room. “What are you doing here?”

    Chakotay grinned at his daughter’s shocked expression. “It’s good to see you, too.”

    Dani watched Chakotay take his seat beside her. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it like that. I just wasn’t expecting you.”

    She didn’t expect the next two people who walked in, either. Dr. Julian Bashir and Captain Benjamin Sisko entered next.

    Will watched Sisko and Bashir take seats across from himself, Dani and Chakotay. He was just as confused as everyone else in the room. “So, do any of you know why we’re here?”

    “I was hoping one of you might have the answer to that,” Julian said.

    “I have the answer to that.”

    All heads turned to the door. Admiral Kathryn Janeway strode into the conference room with a young assistant at her heels.

    Dani and Chakotay exchanged puzzled looks. This meeting had apparently turned into an impromptu family reunion.

    Kathryn took Captain Picard’s usual seat. Her assistant stood next to her, ready to answer to any request or order that she might give. Kathryn turned to the officers around the table. “Good afternoon. Thank you for meeting with me on such short notice.”

    “What’s going on?” Chakotay asked.

    “A situation has developed on Tandar Prime,” Kathryn began. “The Suliban Cabal has presented a threat to the Federation.”

    Sisko’s brows furrowed. “The Suliban Cabal? They haven’t been active in two centuries.”

    “I know,” Kathryn said. “But we have intelligence reports that indicate recent activity, activity that suggests they are planning an imminent attack in the very near future.”

    “What kind of attack?” Will asked.

    “Biological,” Kathryn replied. “They’ve created a disease of some sort to be deployed somewhere within the Alpha Quadrant. We don’t know the details about the characteristics of the disease, only that it’s fatal to all the major Alpha Quadrant races. It’s fortunate that our people at Starfleet Intelligence were able to pick up on this when they did. Had we not known, the outcome could have been catastrophic.”

    “Why would they want to do something like this?” Dani asked. “The Suliban have been a generally peaceful species for so long. They didn’t even get involved during the Dominion War.”

    “Actually, they were involved in the Dominion War,” Kathryn said. “We just didn’t know it. The Cabal worked for the Dominion during the war. Their chameleon abilities made them perfect candidates for espionage activities. They gathered information, mostly, but in some cases they were responsible for sabotage.”

    “I’ll be damned,” Sisko said.

    “We believe that the Cabal may be engaging in this type of behavior again, with war in the Alpha Quadrant being their goal,” Kathryn said.

    “But there aren’t enough Suliban to take on the entire quadrant,” Julian said. “Are they trying to ally with someone?”

    “No. They don’t want to take on the quadrant; they want the quadrant to take on itself. They want the Alpha Quadrant races to turn on each other and create all-out war with one another.”

    “By resorting to old tried-and-true tactics,” Will said. “Make an aggressive move, then pin the blame on someone else.”

    Kathryn nodded. Will was right on the money with his assessment. “We think this attack may be the first such move. But there are a few unknown variables: We don’t know who the target is, and we don’t know who the Cabal is planning to frame for the attack.”

    “So, how do we stop this from happening?” Dani asked. “There has to be a plan, or you wouldn’t be telling us this.”

    “That’s where all of you come in,” Kathryn said. “You are my extraction team. Your assignment is to go in, retrieve the disease, and neutralize it. None of you are wet-behind-the-ears ensigns fresh out of the Academy, and you all have experience carrying out covert missions. Each of you was chosen because you’re among the best at what you do. Consequently, I expect nothing less.”

    She nodded to her assistant, a wet-behind-the-ears ensign fresh out of the Academy. The young man promptly produced a short stack of PADDs, which he handed to the admiral. She handed the stack to Riker, and he took one off the top, passing it on to Dani.

    Dani couldn’t understand it. Once again she found herself being briefed on a secret mission that she was going to be part of. How was she in this situation again, especially after what had happened the last time?

    Of course, Dani rationalized, only a few people knew the truth behind her mission to Cardassia the previous year. Officially, the mission was an unbelievable success.Officially, Dani had ensured the release of Federation ambassador Hea Starr from the Cardassian labor camp by offering herself as a replacement. She was rescued months later. She was determined to have developed Stockholm syndrome and underwent counseling under the care of Deanna Troi.

    The unofficial truth of the situation would be enough to get Dani booted out of Starfleet for treason and dereliction of duty. The real reason she’d remained on Cardassia was the lure of another chance to have a life with Marac Dukat. That had been the one and only reason she’d remained on Cardassia. But Starr had told a different story when he was debriefed. His version of the story became the official version.

    “These are the details of your mission,” Kathryn said, referring to the PADDs.

    Dani’s eyes eagerly skipped across the PADD as soon as she received it. The Defiant would transport them to Tandar Prime. Once there, the away team was supposed to take a runabout to the surface. From there, three members of the team would begin the retrieval portion of the mission. The biomatter was located in a secret facility run by the Suliban. The team was supposed to gain access to the facility and locate the biomatter, which was on the facility’s lowest level.

    Kathryn turned to her assistant, who promptly handed her what looked like a typical tricorder. She opened it and displayed it for everyone at the table. “The Daestrom Institute has provided us with this modified tricorder, which has been calibrated to scan specifically for the diseases components,” she said. She handed it to Bashir, who took it and began to study it.

    “There’s one more objective to this mission,” Kathryn said. “Before you leave the facility, you need to damage the Cabal’s computer database to prevent them, or at the very least delay them, from synthesizing a replacement batch of the disease. You’ll do this by uploading a virus to their computer. Our people believe that this will also deactivate the forcefields around the facility and disarm any alarms. The runabout will be standing by to beam you back once you signal. Are there any questions?”

    “This sounds like a good plan,” Chakotay began, “but what’s to stop the Cabal from synthesizing the disease again at some point down the line? How do we move beyond a temporary solution and get at the heart of the problem?”

    “We don’t,” Kathryn replied. “We can’t, not without killing every Suliban in the galaxy. That’s the only way to ensure that the Cabal don’t reemerge and try this again later.”

    She rose from her seat and walked over to the large windows. “When fighting terrorism, there are no guarantees. We have to take it one day at a time. Yes, this is only a temporary solution.” She turned to face the officers again. “But it’s the only solution we’ve got right now. This mission isn’t supposed to end everything. It might; we don’t know. We don’t know if this attack was supposed to be the only one or he first of many. We have to fight based on what we know, and what we know is that this particular attack was eminent.”

    She returned to her seat but remained standing behind it. “Are there any more questions?” No one said anything or made a move. “This is a serious mission, but I have the utmost faith in each and every one of you. The Defiant leaves for Tandar Prime one week from today. You’re all dismissed.”

    Everyone rose and began to file out of the observation lounge. “Dani,” Kathryn said.

    Dani stopped just short of the door. She turned and walked over Kathryn.

    “I didn’t want to drop in like this and surprise you,” Kathryn said, “but I didn’t have much of a choice. This mission is classified to the highest levels, and I didn’t have the luxury of telling anyone, even your father.”

    “I understand that,” Dani said. “What I can’t understand is why I’ve been tapped for this mission. After what happened on my last special mission, I can’t imagine that Starfleet Intelligence would want me on another mission for them.”

    “That’s where you’re wrong,” Kathryn said. “The head of Starfleet Intelligence is very impressed with your work. She specifically requested you for this mission.”

    “Admiral Nechayev?” Dani said. “She requested me?”

    Kathryn nodded. “Dani, we both know what really happened on Cardassia, but the entire Federation was privy to a different version because of Ambassador Starr. Dani, you’re a remarkable officer, regardless of what really happened with Dukat. And I’m not just saying that because I’m your mother. That’s my professional opinion, and I would say it even if we weren’t related. In a way, Starr’s return legitimated your Starfleet career for everyone else. You have to remember that it’s his version of the story that they’re reacting to.”

    “First they hate me, then they love me,” Dani said. “I wish they would just make up their minds.”

    Kathryn chuckled at her daughter’s exasperated demeanor. “Well, you do have to admit: having people love you is a lot better than having them hate you.”

  • Deliberation – Chapter 3. Promises

    Dani sat frozen at the computer monitor absently watching the major event of the day unfold. She didn’t know why she was torturing herself like this, because that’s what it was – torture. There was no reason she had to sit there and watch the man she loved marry another woman. But, all the same, she couldn’t look away. It was all very much like watching an explosion. Dani didn’t want to look, but she couldn’t find it in herself to look away. She couldn’t manage to reach up and deactivate the computer terminal.

    So, Rowat did it for her. When he did, Dani continued to stare at the dark screen blankly, until he spoke.

    “There’s no need for you to watch that,” he said.

    Dani looked down at her hands, folded in her lap. “I know.” She looked up at Rowat. “But I just had to see it for myself, to make sure it was real.”

    Rowat wasn’t surprised by the tears that lingered in her eyes and on her face. He’d expected them. What he hadn’t expected were Dukat’s actions, which had caused Dani’s tears in the first place. How could a man he’d admired for years have done something like this? He’d chosen political gain over the woman he supposedly loved.

    Rowat scolded himself for having such thoughts. He couldn’t be a hypocrite, which is what he was doing. He was guilty of exactly the crime for which he was criticizing Dukat. Yes, he’d chosen his work over his own wife. He could count on his fingers the number of nights he’d spent with his wife in the past year. Why? He’d been with another woman instead, the woman sitting in front of him now.

    “I still don’t know what to think,” Dani said, standing. “After all the time we’ve spent together … He looked so happy, just now.”

    “He’s a good actor,” Rowat said, immediately wishing that he hadn’t. The comment had been meant to comfort, but he realized just how bad it had sounded as soon as the words had left his mouth. “That didn’t come out as I intended,” Rowat said, answering the uncertain look Dani had given him. “I didn’t mean with you.”

    Dani looked away from him and walked sullenly to the bed. “Do you know where they’re honeymooning?” she asked.

    Rowat didn’t want to tell her, but she would find out sooner or later from the news vids. It would probably be better if she found out from him than from the press. “Risa,” he told her.

    Dani nodded. “Oh,” she said meekly.

    Rowat studied her. She looked as if she would break at any moment, and he wasn’t sure if there were anything he could do to prevent it. Maybe letting her get it all out would be best anyway. As far as he knew, she hadn’t really had any emotional releases since she’d initially learned of the news of the wedding. She’d been remarkably calm throughout the whole ordeal. For the sake of her emotional health, an outburst was probably warranted.

    “Rowat?” Dani said.

    “Yes?”

    “I want to be alone right now,” Dani told him.

    Rowat didn’t want to leave her alone out of fear of what she might do to herself. He hoped she wasn’t one to take drastic measures, such as ending her own life, but in her present state, he just couldn’t be sure. Nevertheless, he acquiesced to her request for privacy. Nodding, he left her to the room and to herself. Once the door was closed solidly, he heard the muffled sound of soft sobbing, and he decided he wouldn’t stray too far from her bedroom until he knew with certainty that she would be alright.

    Xxx

    Dukat downed another glass of kanar in a few large gulps. He’d never been one to guzzle kanar as if it were the common beer, but tonight was different. His usual way was to savor the experience, the flavor, the sensation of the beverage. Tonight, though, his only aim was inebriation. He was nearly finished with the bottle. He looked at it and, seeing enough for just half a glass, decided that he was drunk enough to go through with this.

    “Oh, Marac … ” Rubula Dukat called from the bedroom.

    Dukat glanced over his shoulder in the direction of the bedroom and then back down at the near empty bottle of kanar. He sighed and picked up the bottle, connecting its mouth with his and turning it up. Only when he was certain that every drop of the liquid in the bottle had passed through his lips and down his throat did he separate himself from the bottle and set it back on the table. “Coming,” he finally called to the bedroom before quietly adding, “My dear,” to end it. He stood and stumbled into the bedroom.

    The new Mrs. Dukat was waiting for him, lounging across the bed invitingly. She couldn’t believe how incredibly lucky she was to have snagged the man standing in front of her. And the others had said he was as good as ‘taken’. She should have known that Dukat had only been using that Terran whore. ‘He’s really in love with me,’ Rubula thought, smiling seductively and doing her best to appear appealing to Dukat. She suspected she didn’t have to do much more than what she was doing at the moment. She was nude, after all. What was more irresistable to a man than a woman’s naked body?

    Dukat stood at the foot of the bed, staring for a long moment. It was true that Rubula was quite fetching, but actually, the sight of her made him sick to his stomach. She wasn’t Dani. He closed his eyes, wishing the kanar would hurry up and get to his head. He should’ve opened up another bottle. He feared that he wasn’t going to be able to get the job done because he didn’t feel like he was drunk enough yet.

    Finally, he opened his eyes and walked over to the bed, nearly tripping over his feet a few times. He unceremoniously pulled down his pants, not even bothering to remove them completely. He just left them around his ankles. He closed his eyes. This was going to be the first time he’d ever had to will himself into a state of excitement.

    ‘It’s Danielle,’ he told himself. ‘It’s Danielle on the bed.’ An image of Dani materialized in Dukat’s head, and in his mind’s eye, he could see her, on the bed in place of Rubula. He could see her.

    Rubula smiled eagerly at the sight of Dukat’s evolving state. If only that Starfleet Terran could see her now, about to consumate her marriage to the next leader of the Cardassia. Rubula could imagine the woman now, in some shack or some slum with her bastared child who Rubula was sure did not belong to Dukat. It probably belonged to that guard who was always hanging around her. Where was her guard and her fancy lifestyle now? Rubula chuckled to herself, thinking that she had Janeway’s lifestyle now. She congratulated herself on her little witticism. The fact that her good fortune had come at Danielle Janeway’s expense was going to make what she was about to do so much sweeter.

    Dukat fell into the bed and crawled to Rubula. He didn’t bother with kissing; he wanted this to be over with as quickly as possible. His face was buried in the pillow beneath Rubula’s head, and he kept his eyes closed. If he could just keep his mind on Dani, he would get through it.

    Rubula was used to receiving a little more attention and affection from her partners, but she attributed Dukat’s lack of such to personal style. Maybe he just wasn’t the affectionate type. That would change, Rublua concluded.

    After a little while, a sound besides periodic grunts escaped Dukat’s lips. He moaned. ‘Now we’re getting somewhere,’ Rubula thought.

    “Oh, Danielle!” Dukat cried out. “Oh … oh … ” Breathing heavily, he rolled on to his back, leaving an appalled Rubula on her back. Had he just called out ‘Danielle’, she wondered. She knew the answer was yes, but she couldn’t believe it. She sat up and looked down at him.

    “Marac?!” she exclaimed.

    In response, Dukat groaned and rolled over onto his side, away from Rubula.

    Xxx

    Dukat stared at himself in the bathroom mirror. His head was pounding. All he really wanted to do was crawl back into bed. But no, he couldn’t do that, now could he? He had to go be seen with the new wife for photo ops. Dukat scowled at the very idea.

    He sighed and looked down at the sink. What was his life supposed to be now? What the hell had he done? Marrying this … leech in exchange for a better chance at being leader of Cardassia …

    How could he do this to her, the woman who had given him a child just six months ago?

    Dukat closed his eyes. He was going to have to get something for this headache. When he opened his eyes again, his thoughts were, again, on Danielle and Nate. This was all for the best, he convinced himself. With him as the head of Cardassia, he wouldn’t have anyone to answer to. He could get rid of Rubula, marry Danielle, and raise Nate in a real family setting. Hopefully with Nate, Dukat could avoid making the mistakes he’d made with Ziyal. It was that goal that was going to keep him going, Dukat decided. This was for them.

    Dukat walked out onto the balcony where Rubula was. She was already at the table enjoying breakfast. Dukat took the seat opposite her and looked out at the view from their suite. It was beautiful. He only wished he weren’t sharing it with Rubula. He looked ruefully over at her.

    She, in turn, looked over at him with a smile. “Goodmorning, Marac,” she said.

    “Goodmorning,” Dukat said, managing a weak smile of his own. He resolved to at least be cordial with the woman. She was innocent in all this, after all. The only reason she was here at all was because it had been convenient. He wondered whether she was even aware of that fact or not.

    When a server moved to place breakfast on the table for him, Dukat waved it away. The last thing he wanted to do was eat. Going to bed on a stomach full of kanar had not been a good idea.

    “Is something wrong?” Rubula asked, observing Dukat’s behavior.

    “I don’t have much of an appetite this morning,” Dukat told her.

    “Are you well?”

    Dukat looked at her for a moment before answering. No, he wasn’t well, not emotionally. But he insisted to her that he was, anyway. “I’m fine.”

    “Good.” Rubula appeared to turn her attention back to her breakfast. She took a sip of her hot fish juice and then spoke again. “I thought the problem might have been all that kanar you had last night.” She gave a dismissive laugh. “You were quite tipsy, believe me. Did you know that you even called out somone else’s name last night? What a thought … ” Rubula didn’t want to let on that the incident had bothered her as much as it had. She hardly even wanted to acknowledge that she had noticed it. ‘He was drunk,’ Rubula told herself. ‘That’s all it was. Too much kanar.’

    Dukat couldn’t take it anymore. He had to get away from this woman. He couldn’t stomach the thought of spending a whole week with Rubula. He stood.

    Rubula looked up at him, a little surprised. “What are you doing?” she asked.

    Dukat walked into the bedroom as if he hadn’t heard Rubula’s question. She followed him and watched as he pulled out his suitcase and began tossing his belongings in.

    “Marac,” Rubula said, “where are you going?”

    “Back to Cardassia,” he told her.

    “Cardassia? But this is our honeymoon,” Rubula protested. “Why are you going back there?”

    “I have business to attend to,” Dukat replied.

    “But Marac, I don’t want to leave now,” Rubula whined.

    Dukat shut the suitcase he’d just finished packing. “You may remain. Invite your friends, family, whatever you wish.” He turned to her. “But I must leave.”

    Rubula stared at him, her disbelief plaguing her features. He only afforded her a momentary glance before picking up his case and turning to walk out of the room. Before he could make it to the door, Rubula spoke to him again. “It’s her, isn’t it?” she surmised. “You’re leaving so that you can go see that little Terran whore.”

    Dukat stopped only momentarily before continuing on to the door. “You shouldn’t speak on matters about which you have no knowledge, Rubula,” he said. “I’m leaving because I have things that require my attention, and we’ll leave it at that.” As he approached the doors and they slid open, he turned to Rubula briefly, darting a look of warning in her direction. She should drop the subject before she gets her feelings hurt.

    Xxx

    Dani awoke to sunlight streaming through her window and the sound of birds chirping merrily outside. It was a beautiful morning, but the grim reality of her situation made Dani feel as if it were the gloomiest and dreariest of days. The day before had been the absolute worst day of her life.

    She sat up, rubbing her eyes and yawning. That’s when she noticed the appetizing aroma of food drifting underneath her nose. She couldn’t pinpoint what was cooking, but it smelled good, whatever it was, and it alerted her to the fact that she was hungry.

    Dani looked at the time on the chronometer at her bedside table and saw that it was a little past 8 a.m. She swung her legs over the side of the bed, stood, and walked out of the room, grabbing her robe on the way.

    She cleared the last of the stairs and walked over to the kitchen. She’d expected to find Melba at the stove, whipping up one of her wonderful meals. Instead, Rowat stood there, donning an apron and wielding a spatula in one hand. It was a sight that Dani had never expected to witness in a million years. She’d never had any inclination that the man even knew what a spatula was. Despite that, it was obvious that Rowat knew what he was doing. The delightful smell that permeated throughout the house was evidence of that.

    “Goodmorning,” Dani said, making her presence known.

    Rowat turned to her, and it took all of Dani’s will to keep from laughing. The sight of a Cardassian officer in full uniform plus an apron was a funny sight. She merely smiled.

    “Goodmorning,” Rowat said.

    Dani took a few steps into the room. “What’s that?” she asked, indicating what was cooking in the skillet.

    “This is just a little something that I decided to prepare,” Rowat said, turning off the stove and picking the skillet up off the eye. What ever was cooking continued to sizzle. “Have a seat.” Rowat, continuously stirring the contents of the skillet, walked over to the breakfast table. Dani sat at the table in front of a plate that had already been set out for her.

    “I didn’t know you cooked,” Dani said. She looked up at Rowat, who now stood beside her chair.

    “Despite what impression most would give, not all of us have maids and cooks,” Rowat explained. He delivered the skillet’s contents onto Dani’s plate where it finally stopped sizzling.

    “It looks kind of like an omelet,” Dani observed.

    “It is … kind of,” Rowat said.

    Dani picked up her fork, then hesitated. “It isn’t spicy, is it?”

    “No,” Rowat assured her. “Try it. I’d like to know what you think.”

    Dani regarded him momentarily before spearing some of the food with her fork. She blew on it a few times to cool it and guided it to her mouth. While she chewed, she looked at Rowat, who anxiously awaited her reaction. Dani nodded and swallowed. “It’s good. It could use a little pepper, though.”

    Rowat snapped his fingers. “I knew there was something I forgot.” He walked over to one of the cabinets and returned with pepper, which he sprinkled over the food. “This was supposed to go in while it was cooking, but now will have to do,” he said. “Try it now.”

    Dani tasted another bite and looked back up at Rowat. “It’s absolutely perfect,” she complimented.

    Rowat almost smiled. “I’m glad you like it.” He walked over to the stove, where he replaced the skillet.

    Dani’s eyes fell to the vase in the middle of the table, and for the first time, she noticed that the flowers that rested there looked different. “Something about this vase has changed,” she noted aloud.

    “It’s the flowers,” Rowat said. “They’re fresh.” He returned to the table with a glass of orange juice, which he placed on the table beside Dani’s plate. He preferred a nice, hot fish juice anyday, but living with Janeway for the past year, the orange Terran drink had grown on him.

    “I saw them outside, and I thought they would look nice in that vase,” Rowat continued, explaining the flowers’ presence. He looked down at Dani. “They brighten the room, don’t you think?” Rowat knew that none of his efforts were going to make Janeway truly happy, but perhaps they might make her day go a little easier.

    Dani looked up at Rowat. “Thank you, Rowat. For everything. For the breakfast, the flowers. I mean it.”

    The Cardassian’s features softened even more, and Dani was sure that she saw a smile, albeit, a small one. “Finish your breakfast,” he said.

    Xxx

    The reflection of the sun on the surface of the lake that comprised the backyard of Dani’s little cottage created a sparkling effect in the orange light of the sunset. It was the same lake that Dani and Dukat had visited what seemed like an eternity ago. In actuality, it had only been a few years. As she looked out now, she could see the ‘endless fall’ on the other side of the lake. The water, as it had the first time she’d seen it, still appeared to fall right through the surface of the lake and continue all the way to the bottom.

    Dani sighed. That time had been a different time, a time when all that had mattered was Dukat and she. Now she would be forced to share him with another woman and the rest of Cardassia. It was just going to be something that she would have to accept. This was the way it was going to be from now on. It had finally sunk in over the last few days.

    But why? Why did she have to accept? Why settle? Hadn’t she learned in her life not to simply settle? Why do it now?

    Because she loved Dukat? No. Sometimes love just wasn’t enough. At least not in this situation. There had to be more to it.

    Maybe it was because of Nate, Dani contemplated. Yes, it was true that she wanted her son to grow up with both a mother and a father, but at what price? Her dignity? No – there was more.

    Perhaps the trial of losing Dukat that first time and watching him die the second time had affected her more deeply than she’d initially thought. Yes. Now she was getting warm. How could she just up and leave after she’d been given an unprecedented third chance? How could she give it up after it had been what she’d most wanted? That was why she allowed herself to settle. That was what made this situation so different that she was willing to live as Dukat’s mistress hidden away on some sparsely populated planet.

    “This view really is quite breath-taking,” Rowat commented, breaking into Dani’s dismal thoughts. His eyes roamed over the water’s glimmering, reflective surface.

    “It is,” Dani replied. “You should bring your wife here some time.”

    Rowat didn’t say anything. He was silent for a long moment. Then quietly, “My wife and I divorced. A few months ago.”

    “Oh,” Dani said. If it had been physically possible for Dani to stuff her size 7 foot into her mouth, she would have at that point. “I’m sorry, Rowat. I didn’t know.”

    “It’s all right. I knew it was going to happen sooner or later.” Rowat looked at Dani. “She said I wasn’t home enough, that I was away on the job too much. She was right.”

    Dani looked down at the water. “I guess that means it was my fault, then.”

    Rowat took a moment to consider the statement. He nodded. “Yes – but I don’t regret any of it.”

    Dani looked at him again. Rowat’s wife had been a lucky woman. But then Dani reconsidered; she had been the lucky one.

    Xxx

    The night sky wasn’t the only thing that greeted Dani and Rowat as they returned to the house. To both their surprise, Dukat was the one who opened the door to let them in.

    “Sir?” Rowat said, puzzled.

    “Hello, Rowat,” Dukat said. He shifted his gaze to Dani. “Hello.”

    “Hi,” she said quite forcibly. She didn’t wait for him to move to the side before she entered. She simply pushed past him. Right now, Dukat was one of the last people in the universe that she wanted to see.

    “How have things been?” Dukat asked, moving away from the door and following her to the living room.

    Dani looked at him with disbelief. How did he think things had been?

    “Things are well, sir,” Rowat chimed in, answering for Dani. He couldn’t believe that the man actually had the gall to come here and act as if everything were supposed to be fine.

    “Wonderful,” Dukat said, this time without the exuberance that usually accompanied it. “Rowat, could you give us some privacy, please?”

    “Of course, sir,” Rowat obliged. His eyes momentarily met Dani’s before he left the room.

    “I thought you were on Risa, on your honeymoon?” Dani said to Dukat.

    “I was, briefly,” Dukat said. “But I had to leave. I couldn’t stay there a moment longer.”

    Neither said anything next. They just stood across the room from each other, each one staring at the other, wondering what was going through each other’s minds.

    “Danielle – ” Dukat tried unsuccessfully. Dani started for the stairs

    “What do you want?” Dani asked. She didn’t alter her course at all.

    Dukat followed her. “We need to talk,” he said.”

    “There’s nothing to talk about.” Dani began to climb the stairs.

    “I beg to differ. I think there’s plenty to discuss. I need to explain things to you.” He cleared the stairs after Dani and followed her into the master bedroom.

    “Fine then – talk,” Dani said. She crossed her arms and stood looking out the window. She had been so sure that she’d dealt with her feelings. She thought she’d taken care of it. Apparently, that was not the case.

    Dukat walked over to her and tried to place his hands on her, but she shrugged away forcibly. “Please don’t touch me.”

    Dukat, crestfallen, let his hands fall to his side. “Danielle – I love you.”

    Dani turned to him, exasperated. “I know you do, Marac. Miraculously, I never doubted that throughout this whole ordeal. But this whole set-up makes no sense. You love me, but you’re willing to cast me off to the side while you marry some other woman? I don’t understand. I feel like Nate and I are in exile here, Marac.”

    “Danielle, I don’t like doing this any more than you do. That woman I’m supposed to be married to … ” He lowered his voice before continuing. “I had to drink a full bottle of kanar the other night just to consummate the marriage.”

    Dani threw her hands up. “I don’t want to hear about this.” She stepped around him, intending to walk out.

    “Danielle, I was thinking of you the entire time,” Dukat persisted. “It was the only way I could make it through.”

    “You are not hearing me. I don’t want to hear about your honeymoon night with your new … wife.”

    “If I can get myself elected, become the supreme leader of Cardassia, that means that I’ll be able to do what I want. I can get rid of Rubula and have you and Nate at my side. I’ll be able to marry whomever I wish. But I can’t do that if I’m not married to a Cardassian woman to begin with.” He sighed. “You know how Cardassians are, Danielle. You know our conventions, our values. When the people go to vote on a leader, they want a family man. If I don’t have Rubula, it won’t happen.”

    Dani surprised herself by seeing the logic in what Dukat was saying. She didn’t like it, but it was true. Dukat’s plan was probably the only way the two of them were going to see marriage, at least on Cardassia.

    Dukat, sensing a new calm in Dani, tried to take her hand, but she snatched it away, still distancing herself from him. He was stunned.

    “You still should have told me about all this from the start, Marac,” Dani said. “Instead, I had to read about it in the news.”

    “I apologize for that,” Dukat said. “I admit, it wasn’t the most tactful way to approach the situation. But, my darling, my love – you must believe me when I say that I’m doing this for you and Nate.”

    “I do believe you, Marac,” Dani said. “I just need some more time to think.”

    Dukat was at a loss. What else could there possibly be to think about? He’d explained everything to her, and she even seemed to agree. Why did she need more time? “Think? About what?”

    “Everything,” Dani said. “Everything.”

    xxx

    Dani looked through the living room window, watching Dukat with Nate in the front yard. Dukat was lying on his back on the lawn holding Nate in a standing position on his chest. The man had been on Cardassia IV for three days and hadn’t once mentioned his work or Rubula since that first night that he’d shown up. For the last few days, everything was like it had been before. It had been like nothing had changed between them.

    Maybe, Dani thought, things hadn’t changed so dramatically. If Dukat’s plan worked, everything really would turn out for the best. Besides, Dani was impressed with Dukat. The entire time he’d been on Four, he’d slept in a separate room, at Dani’s request and hadn’t once complained. He seemed to be content just being there with her and Nate. That counted for something.

    Dani found him in his room reading over something on the computer. The room was illuminated by only soft lamplight despite the darkness outside.

    “You should use more light,” Dani said, announcing her presence. She abandoned the doorway and stepped into the room. “You’re going to strain your eyes.”

    Dukat turned to her in his seat. “Cardassians see better in the dark than Terrans,” he said. “Eyestrain is rarely a concern of ours.” He watched Dani come closer to him. “I thought you’d gone to bed for the night?”

    Dani shook her head. “Not yet. I was missing something.”

    “What’s that?”

    “You.” Dani couldn’t believe she was doing this, but she was giving Dukat another chance. She walked up to him and sat down on his lap, draping her arms about his neck. He regarded her in a surprised manner, eyebrows raised.

    “Does this mean what I think it means?” Dukat asked her.

    “It means that I never could stay angry at you for very long,” Dani replied. “I love you, Marac, and I want to see this through.” She looked deep into his eyes. “I trust you.” She stroked his jaw ridges and pulled him close for an embrace.

    “Thank you, my love,” Dukat whispered to her before brushing his lips against hers. He stood, taking Dani with him in his arms, and walked out of the room, down the hall to the master bedroom. Gently, he laid her down on the bed. “You’re the one I should be married to,” he told her. Then he vowed, “I will be.”

    xxx

    “I’ll be back when I can,” Dukat told Dani the next morning. “I’ll try to make that a few days.” His bag was hanging on his shoulder, and he was at the door, ready to leave for Prime. He looked to Nate, perched in Dani’s arms. “I’ll see you in a little while, son.” He planted a kiss on the little boy’s mildly ridged forehead. Then he turned to the boy’s mother and kissed her soundly. “I love you.”

    “I love you, too,” Dani said.

    “I’ll see you soon.” He kissed her again quickly before turning and heading for the shuttle that was parked on the front lawn.

    Rowat, who stood away, removed from the scene, could hardly believe what he was witnessing, what he had just witnessed between Janeway and Dukat. After all he had done to her … Love really did make people do things they wouldn’t normally do, things that weren’t always rational. Why should Janeway settle when she and that little one of hers deserved so much more?

    xxx

    When Dukat walked through the doors of his house on Prime, he was unexpectedly greeted by Rubula. She rushed over to him, threw her arms around him, and kissed him squarely on the lips.

    Dukat reacted by gently pushing her away, an action which she didn’t seem to notice. She beamed up at him, even as he unfurled her arms from around his neck.

    “Welcome home, darling,” Rubula gushed.

    Dukat looked down at her with uncertainty. “Rubula – what are you doing here? Why aren’t you on Risa?”

    “I decided to come back early. It wasn’t much of a honeymoon without my husband.”

    “Why didn’t you take my suggestion, and invite some friends?” already past her and on his way to his office.

    “I did.” Rubula followed him. “They stayed for a couple of days before we all decided to come back home.”

    Now standing in his office, Dukat turned to her and nodded. “Oh. Well, if you’ll excuse me, I have work to do.”

    “You don’t want any dinner?” Rubula asked.

    “No, I’ll replicate something a little later.” He walked over to his desk and sat down.

    “Are you sure? Not even dessert?” Rubula asked suggestively.

    Dukat regarded Rubula’s attempt at innuendo with annoyance. “No. I’m fine.”

    Rubula attempted to mask her obvious disappointment. “Okay,” she said. “Well, I guess I’ll see you at bedtime, then.”

    “Actually,” Dukat interjected, “I’ve decided to sleep in one of the other bedrooms. I’ll be sleeping there from now on.”

    For the first time that night, Rubula visibly frowned. “Why?” she asked. “Is there something wrong with ours?”

    “No, there’s nothing wrong with your room. I just prefer to sleep alone.”

    Rubula nodded, albeit skeptically. She was sure that if that Starfleet woman were here, Dukat would have no problem sharing his bed. But Rubula refused to give up without a fight. She was determined to win over her husband and have what was rightfully hers.

  • Sweetest Sin – Chapter 4. Ex Factor

    Dani slipped on her sneakers and proceeded to stretch her muscles. She had been on Prime for three weeks, now, and had been sitting around the house for far too long. She’d taken to reading novels and had already worked her way through ten. She was just itching to get some kind of exercise.

    When she made it downstairs, Rowat was already there. She didn’t usually see him this early in the day. His quarters were located in the house, but he usually didn’t come down until after Dukat had left.

    “Goodmorning, Rowat,” Dani greeted cordially. “You’re down early, aren’t you?”

    “Only a little,” Rowat replied dryly. He noted Dani’s attire and took on a look of surprise. Running shoes and athletic attire? It wasn’t what she usually wore to breakfast. “Are you going somewhere?” he asked.

    “After breakfast, I’m going for a little run,” Dani told him matter-of-factly.

    “I’m sorry. I can’t allow you to do that,” was Rowat’s reply.

    “Why not?”

    “It’s too dangerous.”

    “That’s what I have you for.” Dani tried to side step him, but he blocked her path. She sighed, annoyed, and stood there, her arms crossed.

    “Good morning,” Dukat’s voice rang out. Dani turned to see Dukat walking out of his office, a PADD in his hand. He noted the dismayed looks on Dani’s and Rowat’s faces. “What seems to be the problem here?”

    “She wants to go running,” Rowat complained.

    “Well, then you’d better make sure you’re all stretched and warmed up,” Dukat said.

    Rowat looked quizzically at Dukat. “What?” he asked.

    “I wouldn’t want you to pull a muscle,” Dukat said, as if that would clarify everything.

    Apparently for Rowat, it didn’t. “I don’t understand.”

    “While you’re running. I wouldn’t want you to injure yourself,” Dukat said slowly, as if he were speaking to a child. He smiled. “She’s fast. Be sure to keep up with her.” He offered one final smile before walking off toward the kitchen.

    Rowat looked at Dani, a scowl on his gray face. “I’ll be ready to go in 15 minutes,” she gloated. She smiled sweetly, mocking him, and followed Dukat into the kitchen.

    “If Rowat doesn’t keep up with you, be sure to tell me,” Dukat said, as Melba placed a light breakfast in front of him. He plucked his neatly folded napkin from the table.

    As Dani’s own breakfast was placed before her, she asked Dukat, “You don’t have a problem with me going for a run, do you?”

    “No, of course not, my love,” Dukat said. “In fact, I’m quite pleased to see that you’re doing something you enjoy. I want to see you happy.” He smiled at her.

    “You don’t think there’s any real danger, do you?”

    “Oh, of course not. As long as Rowat stays with you, you should be fine.” He watched Dani nod, albeit with some apparent degree of uncertainty. “Don’t worry yourself with this. Go, and have fun. I only wish I could join you.”

    “Maybe soon,” Dani said optimistically. She gave him a smile of her own.

    “We’ll see,” he said. “What time do you think you’ll be ready to go tonight?” he asked, moving on to the next subject, which was the formal ball he and Dani were to attend that night.

    “Whatever time you need me to be,” Dani replied. She shifted uncomfortably in her chair. “Do you really think this is such a good idea? I mean, dinner is one thing, but this? I don’t even like formal engagements in the Federation. I know this one is going to be much more trying than any of those.”

    Dukat reached across and covered Dani’s hand with his. “I know that venturing into another room full of Cardassians is probably the last thing you want to do, especially after what happened at the restaurant,” he began. “However, I would greatly appreciate it if you were at my side tonight.”

    “You know I will be,” Dani assured him with a weak smile. All she really wanted to do was stay in and enjoy a night alone with Dukat. But if he had to go to this state function, and he wanted her with him, she would be there.

    “Wonderful,” Dukat said. He pulled his napkin from his lap, placed it on the table, and rose. “I have to get going.” He leaned down and kissed Dani. “I’ll see you this evening.”

    “Okay.”

    “I love you,” he told her.

    “Love you, too.” She kissed him again before he left.

    xxx

    Dani felt like pure energy while she was running. She hadn’t exercised vigorously in weeks, and now that she was doing it, it felt like she was taking a long, deep breath. She felt like she could go on forever.

    Rowat, on the other hand, was having a harder time. He felt like he wouldn’t make it much longer. His breathing was getting ragged, and he was falling behind Dani.

    Finally, Dani slowed to a walk. Rowat was more than relieved. He felt like his lungs were about to burst. He didn’t know how long they had been running. It seemed like hours.

    “Twenty minutes,” Dani breathed. Her breathing was heavy but nowhere near the degree of Rowat’s.

    Rowat looked at the woman in disbelief. Twenty minutes?! he thought. That was all?

    Dani continued. “I guess that’s enough for today. We can do more tomorrow.”

    “Tomorrow?” Rowat rasped.

    “Wouldn’t want to wear myself out on the first day,” Dani said, walking past the hunched over, exhausted Cardassian.

    xxx

    All heads in the room turned to them when they entered. It was a large, grand room, and it was filled with people dressed impeccably in formal dresses, suits, and uniforms. Dani Janeway would never again complain about being stuck in a room full of admirals. That was a piece of cake compared to this.

    Dani and Dukat hesitated momentarily at the entrance. He turned to her, flashing a reassuring smile as he covered her hand with his. He knew she didn’t like this, but having her here was for the best. It was high time these people got used to seeing her around, because she was here to stay. There was no way he was going to let them railroad her into a reclusive existence. They glided gracefully into the room, arm-in-arm.

    As the couple made their way across the room, they left a wake in the crowd, as a boat does in water. Dukat waved and nodded at various individuals as they walked. Where they were going, Dani had no idea. She wasn’t exactly the tallest person around, so she couldn’t see over the scores of people who lined their path and stared while they passed by. After a few more moments of walking, though, Dani could see a long, table seemingly elevated and looming at the front of the room. She looked up at Dukat, questioningly.

    “Let me guess – that’s our table,” Dani surmised.

    “You are correct,” Dukat replied. “We’re supposed to mingle with the other guests until Damar arrives. Then we can all take our seats.”

    Dani nodded. Damar had been the leader of Cardassia since the Dominion War ended, which was about eight years ago. Dani wondered what it was like for Dukat, having to serve under a man who had once been his subordinate. From what Dani had learned, Cardassia had suffered under Damar’s leadership. His intentions had been good, but a society couldn’t be run on intentions. In nearly a decade, Cardassia hadn’t yet completely recovered from the war. Terrorist cells lurked in both the colonies and the anonymity of the large cities, attacking sporadically. And the economy was a mess. The treaty with the Federation was a small step, and it could be a while before any significant gain from the alliance would be visible. Cardassia needed solutions now. In the meantime, the general attitude toward the Federation remained resentful. People on Cardassia didn’t like the idea of asking for help from the Federation and outwardly scoffed at the idea of one day becoming a member planet.

    “So, who else sits at the table?” Dani asked Dukat.

    “Damar, of course,” Dukat began. “And Reyal. I’ve told you about him.” Dani nodded, and Dukat continued. “Then there are a few other legates and guls. When we have guests of the state, they usually sit with us.” Dukat’s eyes roamed the room before focusing in on a group of men a few feet away. “There’s most of our group, now,” he said, pointing out the group. He led Dani over to the group.

    “Gentlemen, allow me to introduce my guest, Lt. Danielle Janeway,” he said. “Danielle, these are our table companions.” He pointed to each one as he introduced them. “Legate Reyal, prefect of Prime’s Eastern Hemisphere, Legate Maroll, and Guls Evek and Madred.”

    “How do you do?” Dani greeted. This was her first time meeting all of them in person, but she already knew the names Evek and Madred.

    “I’ve been reviewing your service record, Lieutenant,” Evek said. “You served under Picard.”

    “That’s right,” Dani replied. “In fact, I was onboard a few times when you visited the Enterprise.”

    “Really? The last time my ship encountered the Enterprise was years ago. You don’t look old enough to have been an officer then.”

    “I wasn’t. I was a little girl then.”

    “Well, you certainly are a woman now,” Reyal said, admiring Dani with a smile. Dukat regarded his colleague with great annoyance. Who the hell did he think he was? Then again, only a few short weeks ago, Dukat had tried to convince the man that Dani Janeway was little more than a housekeeper. Dukat had to admit, he had left himself exposed on this one.

    Dani turned to Reyal. She would’ve gotten mad, but Dukat had told her that Reyal was generally a good person. He was only serious when there wasn’t any other option. He was a few years younger than Dukat and only two or three inches shorter. He was handsome with a sort of boyish charm. Actually, Reyal reminded Dani of Will a little. “Very good,” Dani said, responding to Reyal’s statement with mock praise. “You’re very observant.”

    Reyal smoothly took Dani’s hand. “Lieutenant, allow me to formally welcome you to Cardassia and our little party,” he said. He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it before speaking again. “And might I add that you look absolutely lovely tonight. That dress … ” Reyal’s gray eyes roamed the length of Dani’s body, clad in long, scarlet gown that clung and hugged in all the right places. “Red really is your color.” Reyal couldn’t have cared less about the color. It could have been the ugliest shade of pink; it wouldn’t matter. The view would still be the same. He looked over at Dukat, who didn’t look at all amused. What reason did he have to be upset, though? After all, he was helping convince everyone that there was nothing going on between Dukat and his ‘guest’, Reyal thought with an silent laugh.

    Reyal turned back to Dani. “I hope that we can get to know each other better and that your time here on Prime is well spent,” he told her, letting go of her hand.

    Dani wanted to break into a laugh, but she held it back. Reyal was just being nice. Maybe a little too nice, but it was a welcome change from all the hostility Dani was becoming used to encountering on this planet. “Well, Legate Reyal -“

    “Please – call me Dorien,” Reyal requested.

    “Dorien,” Dani acquiesced. “I thank you for the very warm welcome.”

    “Reyal is a very cordial person,” Dukat said, finding the perfect opportunity to finally jump in. He looked at Reyal. “Sometimes he goes a little overboard.”

    Madred spoke up. “I would also like to welcome Lt. Janeway to Cardassia,” he said.

    Dani looked up at Madred. She remembered his name vividly. How could she ever forget? The man who had personally interrogated and tortured Captain Picard during his captivity on Cardassia. He was the reason Will hadn’t wanted Dani on their mission to Cardassia.

    Madred peered down at her. “And also, send your captain my regards – when you see him again, that is,” he said. “We’re old friends.”

    “I know,” Dani said coldly.

    Madred grinned a little, satisfied that he had gotten underneath Janeway’s skin. It was regrettable that he had never actually gotten the chance to interrogate her. He imagined that the procedure probably would have been interesting.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, Legate Damar,” a male voice announced. All heads turned to the room’s entrance. Damar walked in, a beautiful young Cardassian woman on his arm. Her dress was intensely elaborate and complicated, and her hair did it all justice.

    Dani leaned in close to Dukat and whispered, “I didn’t know Damar was married.”

    “He isn’t,” Dukat whispered back. “She’s temporary.”

    “Oh,” Dani mouthed, nodding.

    It didn’t take Damar long to make his way over to the group. “Good evening gentlemen,” he greeted cheerfully. He noted Dani’s presence and added, “And lady. This must be the guest I’ve been hearing so much about.”

    “Yes,” Dukat said. “Damar, this is Lt. Danielle Janeway. Danielle, this is Legate Damar – our leader.”

    Dani could see the sarcasm behind Dukat’s eyes even though it didn’t come through in his voice.

    “A pleasure, sir,” Dani said politely.

    “Likewise,” Damar said. He turned to the rest of his companions. “Shall we take our seats?”

    Everyone began to follow Damar to the table. Dukat hung back a little with Reyal. He spoke quietly to the other man so that only the two of them could hear. “Laying it on a little thick, aren’t we?” Dukat asked Reyal.

    “I haven’t the slightest idea what you’re referring to,” Reyal said innocently. Then with mock realization, “Oh, do you mean Lt. Janeway?”

    “Yes, I mean Lt. Janeway,” Dukat said pointedly.

    “Dukat, you’re lucky to have such a beautiful woman working in your house,” Reyal said. He looked at Dani, who turned around and looked at Dukat, probably wondering why he wasn’t behind her.

    “Okay, you’ve made your point.” Dukat took his eyes off Reyal momentarily to cast a reassuring look to Dani. Then he turned back to Reyal. “But I’d appreciate it if you’d quit making passes at my guest,” he said before walking off to join Dani.

    Damar sat in the seat at the center of the table, with Reyal and Dukat on either side of him. Dani was beside Dukat. Beside Dani was Evek and then his wife. Maroll and his wife were beside Reyal. Madred was at the end. Without delay, a unit of servers began to bring out the food and kanaar for the table.

    Dukat turned to Dani. “I apologize for Reyal’s behavior,” he said. “He was trying to prove a point.”

    “Really? I could’ve sworn he was just trying to help you out,” Dani said, taking a sip from the glass of kanaar that had just been poured for her.

    “How so?”

    “By illustrating the fact that you and I aren’t a couple,” Dani explained. “No man in his right mind would just stand by while another man made blatant come-ons to his girlfriend.” She smiled behind her glass.

    “You enjoyed it, didn’t you?” Dukat questioned.

    Dani placed her glass back on the table. “Maybe I was a little flattered,” she admitted. A smile was on her face, but there was hysterical laughter in her eyes. Dukat realized that she was teasing him. He took a sip of his drink and returned her smile.

    “I’m going to the little girl’s room,” Dani told him. “The restroom,” she clarified upon seeing the questioning look on Dukat’s face.

    “Do you want me to go with you,” Dukat asked.

    “I didn’t think you were that type,” Dani quipped before standing.

    Dukat watched her walk away, a lopsided grin on his face. The woman had no shame.

    “Dukat, are you attempting to bring back the tradition of comfort women?” Maroll asked with a mischievous grin.

    “Yes, Dukat – what’s the truth behind Janeway?” Evek inquired.

    “Gentlemen, I know that I am not the only one at this table who’s ever borrowed from the prison population to take care of household labor issues,” Dukat said. He took an innocent sip from his glass of kanaar.

    Maroll, a rotund, older man with graying hair, chuckled. “Come now. Surely, you don’t expect us to believe that you have a girl like that in your house for purely professional reasons?”

    Dukat kept up the act. “Why not?”

    Evek narrowed his eyes at Dukat. “Didn’t you have some kind of romantic liaison with this woman a little while back?”

    “No, Evek – I appeared to have a romantic relationship with Janeway.” Dukat rested his elbows on the arms of his chair and clasped his hands. He prayed to whatever gods could hear him that his story was believable. “Can’t you see? The relationship was a ploy to lure Janeway here,” he lied. “Gentlemen, you have to agree that with Janeway in our custody, we have an excellent bargaining chip with the Federation. Janeway will give us the opportunity to negotiate different terms for the treaty, terms that could possibly give us the upper hand in this deal. We have something they want, and we want something they could give us.”

    “That’s a good plan,” Evek commented.

    “Yes, it is,” Maroll admitted. “But I still find it difficult to believe that your relationship with Lt. Janeway hasn’t returned to its romantic roots. A man has needs, you know.” He turned and smiled knowingly at his wife, who returned his grin.

    “It’s all purely physical, I assure you,” Dukat said.

    “Does she know that?” Damar asked, entering the conversation for the first time.

    Dukat looked at Damar. “What purpose would that serve?” he asked.

    Xxx

    Dani walked out of the restroom and immediately wanted to run back in. Madred was there, and he was looking right at her. She wondered if he had coincidentally gotten up at the same time as she, but she doubted that was what had happened. It was more likely that he had followed her and waited.

    She began to walk but he immediately moved to block her path. “So, you know who I am, do you?” Madred confronted her.

    Dani looked up at him with an unwavering stare. “I’ve heard of you, yes,” she replied.

    “I’m sure you’ve heard all sorts of stories about the nasty things I did to your captain,” Madred said.

    Dani nodded defiantly. “I have.” She wasn’t going to let Madred intimidate her.

    “Well, let me tell you something,” Madred began, “Picard got what was coming to him because he violated the law. He was a criminal – just … like … you.”

    “Would you kindly step aside?” Dani requested. “I’d like to return to the table.” She tried to side step him, but he was quick in blocking her. He grabbed her by the arm.

    “Careful, dear,” Madred said. “If it weren’t for your boyfriend out there, you’d be in the same situation your good captain was in all those years ago.”

    Dani tried unsuccessfully to squirm out of his grip, but he was stronger than he looked. He moved closer to her, and all of a sudden, she wasn’t sure what he was going to do next. She was revolted when he traced his finger along her collarbone and down her chest. With strength that was rooted in her anger, Dani snatched her arm away from Madred. A guard stepped up seemingly from no where, and Dani wondered where the hell he had been two minutes ago.

    “Would you like me to escort you back to your seat, ma’am?” he offered.

    “No,” Dani said, looking from Madred to the guard. “I’ll be fine.” She finally stepped past Madred.

    Xxx

    Dukat nodded to the server who refilled his kanaar glass. When she moved away, he took a small sip of the liquid and looked over the vast room, wondering what was keeping Dani. She should have returned by now. When his eyes reached the room’s entrance, the expression on his face fell. Dani was returning, but Madred was with her. What was he doing? Dukat hadn’t even seen the man get up from the table. The man was an efficient and effective interrogator, which was exactly why Dukat didn’t want him anywhere near Dani. Dukat’s eyes never left Dani as she made her way back to the table.

    “What happened?” he whispered to her as she took her seat.

    “Nothing,” Dani replied quietly.

    “You look troubled,” Dukat observed. “What did he say to you?”

    “Nothing. We just had a little talk. That’s all.”

    Dukat looked down at the end of the table where Madred was seated. Madred smiled sweetly at him and Dani. Dukat turned back to Dani. “Why don’t we discuss this when we get home?” he suggested.

    “There’s nothing to discuss. Can we just leave it alone?”

    Dukat was a little taken aback, but Dani obviously didn’t want to talk about, so he would let it go. He still wanted to know what Madred had said to her, though. It looked like he would have to find that out on his own. Underneath the table, behind the cover of the silk tablecloth, Dukat took Dani’s hand. He looked at her and offered a gentle smile. She did her best to smile back.

    Dani was glad that Dukat was content with letting the matter drop. She didn’t want to dwell on it anymore about it than she had to, because Madred was right. If it hadn’t been for Dukat, Dani would have ended up in front of Madred’s desk, just like Captain Picard had. And gods only knew how what would have happened to her then.

    She sighed. It was an unsettling thought. Dani looked at Dukat. Was he really all that was standing between her and a tortuous, imprisoned fate? No wonder everyone here hated her. In their eyes, she was just a no-good criminal who had gotten off.

    Xxx

    The next day was a lazy Saturday. Rowat had the day off, and Dukat and Dani had spent the day at home. They had hoped to spend a relaxing day together without having to deal with life’s little annoyances, which is why when the doorbell rang, neither of them worried about it because they were certain that Melba or one of the other house workers would take care of it and send whoever was at the door on their merry way.

    At least, that’s the way it should have happened. When Dani, on the sofa with Dukat in the living room, heard talking in the entrance foyer, she wasn’t sure things were going to go exactly as planned. Soon, Melba appeared in the living room doorway. “Sir, you have a visitor,” she said.

    “I’m not seeing anyone today, Melba,” Dukat dismissed. “You know that.” He never even looked up from the book he and Dani were sharing.

    “Won’t you make an exception for an old acquaintance?” It wasn’t Melba who had spoken. Both Dani and Dukat looked to the doorway. A middle-aged Cardassian woman slid past the maid and glided into the room as if she owned the place. Dani had no clue who the woman was, but it was evident by the look of utter shock on Dukat’s face that he knew the identity of the woman. He sat up straight, closing the book.

    “Sarai … ” he said, coming to his feet. Following suit, Dani uncurled her legs and planted them on the floor, standing.

    “It’s been a long time,” Sarai Lataan said, slowly approaching Dukat. She had a sly smile on her face.

    Dukat was less amused. “That it has,” he said. “What are you doing here, Sarai?”

    “My, how you’ve changed. You didn’t used to be so frank.”

    Not wanting to change the subject at all, Dukat persisted. “Why are you here, and what do you want?”

    “Can’t a wife come and visit her husband if she so wishes?”

    Dukat turned to Dani. “Could you give us a few moments?”

    Dani glanced at Sarai before nodding reluctantly. “Sure.” She grinned up at Dukat before she walked out of the living room, leaving Dukat and Sarai alone.

    Once Dukat was certain that Dani was out of earshot, he turned angrily back to Sarai. “How dare you march into my house in this manner!” he scolded.

    Sarai looked exaggeratedly taken aback. “Is that anyway to greet your wife?”

    “My wife?”

    “Oh, darling, I’ve missed you so much over these past few years.” Sarai proceeded to throw her arms around Dukat.

    Dukat, very confused and equally angered, promptly disentangled himself from her and took an instinctive step back. “Sarai, what is going on?” he asked her.

    Sarai laughed and regarded him as if he should already know. “Why, Marac … you always were adorable when you tried to play dumb.” She moved to close the gap between them, but he put his hand up to stop her. For the first time during her visit, Sarai’s smile left her face. “Marac?”

    “This is all just a bit too convenient for my taste,” Dukat said. “You and everyone else in my life on Prime cut me loose when I brought Ziyal back to live with me.” He saw something within her flicker momentarily at the mention of Ziyal. “Now, after I’ve been back for a while, have my position, my status, I’m … worthy again?”

    “Now, Marac … don’t be so paranoid. I simply realized that people make mistakes, and they shouldn’t be condemned forever because of them. I want us to be able to look past the … bad times and get back to the relationship, to the life that we had before. Reconciliation, Marac.”

    Dukat almost couldn’t believe that the woman had the guile to actually be saying this. But she had been married to him. Perhaps she had learned it from him.

    “While your offer certainly is lucrative and quite tempting,” Dukat said, dripping with sarcasm, “I’m afraid I’m just going to have to decline.”

    “Decline?” Sarai sounded positively surprised.

    “Yes. I’m quite happy with my situation as it is now.”

    “Happy? How could you possibly be happy? Isolating yourself from your fellow Cardassians by fraternizing with a Terran, a Starfleet officer at that. Wouldn’t you much rather enjoy the pleasures a true Cardassian woman can provide.”

    “Ah, Cardassian pleasures … it’s regrettable that they’re only available when the situation at hand is overwhelmingly good.”

    “And what is that supposed to mean?”

    “It means that you left when things became a little too warm for your liking,” Dukat hissed. “You were my wife; you were supposed to be by my side, no matter what.”

    “As were you,” Sarai countered. “But as soon as I was out of site, I was out of mind, wasn’t I? It didn’t seem to take you too long to find comfort in the arms of Bajoran filth. How many were there, Marac? Ten? Fifteen?”

    “That is none of your concern,” Dukat said. He was quickly tiring of the conversation.

    “Okay. So, now I see you’ve moved on from Bajorans. You now prefer the company of Terrans, do you?”

    “Quite frankly, yes. Especially over you.”

    The pair were silent as Sarai let Dukat’s words sink in. Her expression softened, and she looked away from him, as what he said had the chance to take full effect. “What went wrong with us, Marac?”

    “Plenty of things,” Dukat replied. “Too many to name.”

    “Maybe we can make some of those wrongs right?” she said hopefully.

    “I’m afraid it’s much too late for that, my dear,” Dukat informed her. There had been a time when he would have jumped at the opportunity to patch things up with his former wife. He had once loved her very much, but she had cut all ties with him, even reverted to using her maiden name, when Ziyal’s existence became public. He didn’t blame her for being upset about his affairs. He understood that. But to refuse to continue to recognize him as the father of the seven children they shared … that was what had turned Dukat away from her. “We’re past any possible reconciliation, Sarai,” he said. “And I don’t think that’s a bad thing.”

    Sarai looked down at the floor. “I suppose you want to see the children,” she surmised.

    Dukat rolled his eyes. Most of their children were adults, and the ones that weren’t were in their teens. “I’ve already seen the children, Sarai,” he said. “They came to visit my first week in office, and I correspond with them on a regular basis.”

    Sarai looked at Dukat, shocked. The reaction brought a smile to his face. She didn’t have anymore cards to play.

    “Sarai, I think it would be best if you didn’t come back here again,” Dukat said.

    Sarai inclined her head slightly. “I think that’s a good idea.”

    Dukat nodded. “Yes, so you should probably leave now.”

    Sarai let out a laugh and shook her head. “So frank … it was good seeing you again, Marac.”

    “The feeling isn’t mutual,” Dukat deadpanned.

    A funny little grin appeared on Sarai’s face. “Goodbye, Marac.” She turned and left the living room. Dukat’s smile grew wider. After all these years, he’d finally succeeded in getting under her skin.

  • Sweetest Sin – Chapter 1. Surveying the Damage

    Story #6 in the “More than a Lifetime” series

    Author’s Note: This story is the sixth in a series of stories that do not follow cannon and should not be taken as such. The previous stories, in order, are: 1) Delta Wild, 2) Homecoming, 3) Graduation, 4) A Love Less Ordinary, and 5) Return to Normal. The events in these stories occur in an alternate universe in which Chakotay’s stint with the Maquis happened much earlier in his life. He is married to Kathryn Janeway, and they have a daughter. In this universe, Voyager did not combine with a crew from a Maquis ship, but instead reached the Delta Quadrant with a small loss of life and most of her crew in tact. The events of “First Contact” and “Insurrection” have already occurred in this timeline, but “Nemesis” has not. The Dominion War occurred, but with vastly different results. Many of the events of the final season of Deep Space Nine didn’t occur, which means the characters that died during the season are not dead in my story. Please overlook any other inconsistencies or errors pertaining to the original Star Trek universe as the author’s ignorance.

    1. SURVEYING THE DAMAGE

    Jean-Luc Picard looked at each of the faces of the Enterprise E’s senior crew, seated around the large conference table in the observation lounge. He hated meetings of this nature, but it was necessary that they be informed of the bittersweet results of their most recent mission. They all knew that Federation Ambassador Hea Starr had been successfully rescued from a labor camp on Cardassia Prime. They also knew that both Will Riker and Danielle Janeway had gone to Prime to rescue Starr and that Janeway hadn’t returned to the Enterprise with Riker and Starr.

    “As I’m sure you’re all aware of by now, Lt. Janeway did not return to the ship with Commander Riker and the ambassador. I have been informed that she is being held on Cardassia Prime as a prisoner of the Cardassian state,” Picard said, simply stating what was already known by his senior staff. “Now we’ve got to try to find a way to get her back.”

    Will Riker looked down at the table. She doesn’t want to come back, he thought.

    Picard continued. “I’ve been in contact with Command, and they are in the process of -“

    The captain was interrupted by the sound of the observation lounge doors swishing open. He swiveled around to see who had just joined his meeting – late. Ambassador Hea Starr made his way to an empty seat at the table.

    “I apologize, Captain. I didn’t mean to interrupt you,” Starr said, settling in at the table. “Please – continue.”

    “Ambassador – good of you to join us,” Picard said. “I’m pleased to see you are in good health.”

    “All thanks to your skilled officers and medical staff,” Starr replied with a smile. He was a handsome, middle-aged human with warm, dark eyes and wavy salt-and-pepper hair. “If not for them, I wouldn’t be here right now. Chances are, I probably wouldn’t even be alive.” Starr had escaped from Prime with Riker nearly three days earlier, and had been on board the Enterprise for nearly twelve hours.

    “Yes,” Picard began again, “actually, one of my officers is the purpose of this staff meeting.”

    Starr’s smile faded. “Lt. Janeway,” he said sadly.

    “I was just telling my crew how headquarters has initiated negotiationtalks with the Cardassians in hopes of freeing Lt. Janeway,” Picard said. “It is our hope that the treaty we signed with them at the end of the Dominion War will play to our favor.”

    Starr nodded. “She is the reason that I am in attendance at this meeting,” he revealed. “I didn’t want the opportunity to tell everyone what kind of officer the lieutenant is to pass. She wasn’t forcibly taken by the Cardassians.”

    Will’s head shot up in the ambassador’s direction. He had been dreading the moment when he’d have to reveal to the captain, to everyone, what Dani had done. She’d abandoned the Federation and Starfleet for Dukat. So far, he hadn’t been able to bring himself to offer that information up to anyone. He hadn’t been planning to unless he was ordered to. But it looked like Starr was about to spill the beans right now. When Will had made his decision to keep to himself as long as possible, he’d forgotten that the ambassador had been standing right there when Dani had done it. He’d watched on as Dani had thrown away her Starfleet life.

    His heart sinking to the pit of his stomach, he watched and listened as Starr continued.

    At Starr’s last words, everyone at the table had looked at each other, obviously puzzled.

    “Ambassador, what do you mean she wasn’t taken forcibly,” Geordi asked. “You don’t mean she wanted to go with them?”

    “Oh, yes, Commander, that’s exactly what I’m saying,” Starr said. “Lt. Janeway went with the Cardassians willingly because she wanted to make sure they released me. She offered herself as a bargaining chip. I saw her do it before my very eyes. She offered herself to them for my freedom.”

    Will looked at the ambassador, surprised. He had not been expecting that to be the description of what had transpired on Cardassia. Starr had apparently seen Dani’s decision as a heroic notion.

    The Enterprise’s first officer thought about Dani and her situation. Perhaps, he thought, it had looked like Dani had turned herself over to the Cardassians in exchange for Starr’s life. Suddenly, there was a bright spot in all of this darkness for Will. If, somehow, they were able to get Dani back, her career might not necessarily be over. In his heart and mind, though, Will knew the ambassador’s version of what had happened wasn’t accurate. Concurring with Starr’s story would mean knowingly lying to the captain, Nechayev, and all of Starfleet. Could he do it?

    Meanwhile, the meeting had been continuing, Will oblivious to what had transpired in the minutes since Hea Starr had given his account of what had happened at the prison.

    “Starfleet has commenced negotiations with the Cardassians for the return of Lt. Janeway,” Picard was saying. “At the moment, those are the only actions being taken. However, it has been made very clear that if negotiations are not successful, other measures will have to be taken.” The meeting’s attendees all looked at one another, understanding the implications of the captain’s words. They would have to attempt another rescue mission if the talks failed.

    “By my projections, it is highly unlikely that the talks will be successful,” Data said. “We must remember that Starfleet is at fault in this situation for breaking into a Cardassian prison and aiding the escape of a prisoner of the Cardassian state. And it appears that we may have no choice but to repeat our infraction.”

    No one liked that prospect, but it looked like the most likely option would be what Data had suggested.

    Picard nodded. “That’s all the information I have for you at the moment,” he concluded. “You are dismissed.”

    Everyone at the table rose and began to file out of the lounge. “Number One?” Picard said. Will, who’d been on his way out of the room, turned to face his captain. “Sir?” he said.

    “Will,” Picard said, approaching his first officer. “I realize that this entire ordeal must be very difficult for you.”

    Will sighed. “I won’t lie to you. It certainly hasn’t been a picnic.”

    “Well, I assure you – we’re doing everything we can to bring Dani home. You have my word that I will do everything in my power to make sure that Dani is returned safe and healthy.”

    “Thank you, sir,” Will said. “I appreciate that.”

    Picard hesitated a moment before continuing. He knew Will wouldn’t like what he was going to say next. “In the meantime, I think it would be best if I took you off this mission.”

    “Sir -” Will objected.

    “Will, you’re much too close to this one,” Picard explained. “Take some time off. Get your head together.”

    “Sir, I appreciate the gesture,” Will began, “but I’d prefer to remain involved with this.”

    “Will, I understand what you’re going through. I really do.”

    “Then, you’ll understand my desire to want to do something, to feel useful. Frankly, sir, the only way you’re going to get me off this mission is to order me off it.”

    Picard studied Riker. He certainly didn’t want to pull the younger man off this mission. He truly did understand that the woman Will loved was being held captive. The man wanted to do whatever he could to make sure she returned home again.

    Picard nodded. “Very well, then. You shall remain a part of this mission. But Will, if you, at any time, feel that you no longer wish to remain involved, please don’t hesitate to inform me.”

    Will nodded. “Aye, sir.” With that, he left the observation lounge.

    When Will entered the turbolift, Deanna Troi followed him right in. “Deck 8,” Will said. The lift obediently began to move.

    Will knew why Deanna was here, and he wanted to tell her that he didn’t need to talk to anyone, but he knew that wasn’t the case. He needed to talk. Desperately. And there was no better person to talk to than the woman standing next to him. He looked down at her.

    “I don’t even know where to begin,” Will said. He and Deanna were both on the sofa in Will’s quarters. “I don’t know how to begin.”

    “Let’s begin with you,” Deanna suggested.

    “I feel absolutely horrible, Deanna,” Will expressed. “I should have never let them give her this assignment. I should have never let her agree to this assignment.” Will paused and reconsidered. “I know it wasn’t exactly her choice, though. I know it was an order, but I should have … done something.”

    “So, you feel responsible for Dani’s presence on Cardassia right now,” Deanna surmised.

    “Yes,” Will said honestly. His thoughts wandered back to those final moments on Cardassia when he’d watched Dani choose Dukat over him. That had hurt like a knife. “Maybe,” he continued, lost in his thoughts, forgetting that Troi was sitting beside him, “Maybe if I’d done something, anything … she’d be here right now.”

    “You’re right,” Deanna told him. “Dani didn’t have any control over this assignment, and neither did you. Will, this isn’t your fault. You obviously did everything you could to ensure Dani’s safety.”

    No, I didn’t, Will thought. If that were the case, he’d have shot Dukat when he’d had the chance, grabbed Dani, and gotten the hell out of there.

  • Return to Normal – Chapter 10

    Twenty-four hours later, Data was back on board, Spot was with her rightful owner, and it was Friday night.

    Ten-Forward was packed. Apparently, this was more than just a little performance, as Will had claimed it would be. At a few minutes before 1900 hours, there were at least 200 people in the room. Dani was surprised there was still an empty table or two remaining near the platform that would serve as the stage. She walked over and, after confirming that they weren’t being saved for anyone, she sat down in one of the chairs.

    She looked around the room. With this many people in attendance, she was beginning to think they should have held this event in the auditorium. Maybe there was something else taking place there. Then again, even if there were, she knew that Will would much prefer the casual, interactive setting of Ten-Forward over the formal distance of the auditorium.

    When the crowd became more hushed, Dani looked around the room to see what had caused the sudden change. Her eyes fell on Ten-Forward’s entrance, and she learned why the crowd’s noise level had dropped a few decibels. Will and the rest of the musicians in the group had arrived and were walking through the door. As they took the stage and prepped their instruments, everyone clapped. The quintet consisted of a trumpet, a saxophone, a trombone, a clarinet, and percussion. Will, the ensemble’s leader, stepped forward to the mic, his trombone in hand.

    “Good evening, everyone,” he began. “I hope everyone has had a wonderful day. And if you haven’t, I hope tonight can be the bright spot in your day. Let me start off by saying that this isn’t a formal concert. If you get the urge to get up and dance, by all means do so. Socialize, drink, eat. Whatever you want. Our purpose up here is to help ensure that you all have a good time. So, without further ado, here’s the music. Enjoy.”

    Everyone clapped as Will returned to his seat at one end of the row of chairs, which were arranged in a slight arc, with the exception of the drums, which were situated behind the rest of the musicians. They began with a slightly upbeat tune, which had everyone tapping their feet. Some had even taken on partners and were dancing in an area beside the stage which had been set up specifically for that purpose.

    Dani watched Will as he played. The trombone – it certainly wasn’t the most alluring instrument. In the wrong hands, it could look awkward and sound awkward, too. But it seemed to suit Will. She couldn’t really see him playing anything else. And he played it so well. He had such a command of the instrument. He made it look so easy, never having to distort his features in the slightest to reach those high notes.

    When the song ended, the audience clapped, and Will stood and approached the mic. “This next piece is an old Earth favorite, from the twentieth century, circa the 1940s. It’s called “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” The audience chuckled at the title of the song as Will returned to his seat. The song began with a trumpet solo that led into a very upbeat melody with a heavy brass influence. Some of those dancing caught her eye when they started to perform movements that Dani could only guess were swing dance movements. She’d learned a little of it herself when she was in dance classes as a child.

    Dani watched and saw that they were actually quite good. They had to have taken classes to get like that. They weren’t missing a beat. Dani had a brief urge to get up and join them, but decided against it. She didn’t have a partner, and she didn’t want to make a fool of herself. She contented herself with simply watching them. She was amazed when the man lifted the woman off the floor and swung her to either side of him before placing her feet back on the floor again. ‘They had to have practiced all this before they came here,’ Dani thought, watching them as they maneuvered through another set of complicated dance moves from another era. Their movements came to an end as the song did, and once again everyone clapped. Will walked up to the mic again.

    “Thank you, everyone,” he said, as the applause died down. “This next piece is a little something I wrote for a very special lady.” Will’s eyes landed on Dani, casting a mischievous gaze her way. “I won’t say who it is. I wouldn’t want to embarrass her by sending any unwanted attention her way.”

    ‘What a joke!’ Dani thought with a smile. That man was always doing things to bring unwanted attention to her.

    Will eyes spanned the audience as he introduced their next song. “Ladies and gentlemen, sit back, relax, and enjoy as we play for you our next piece, ‘Voyager Girl’” Will’s gaze returned to a blushing Dani, and he grinned, placing the mouthpiece of the horn to his lips.

    ‘No unwanted attention?’ Dani thought to herself. She looked around the room. Amused eyes had fallen on her from various locations in the room. A few tables away, she spotted Beverly, Deanna, and Geordi. They were all looking at her. Had they known about this, she wondered, as the music began to flow from the stage.

    Dani turned her attention back to Will. His was the leading instrument in the piece. As he played, he stood at the edge of the stage, his body angled in Dani’s direction. A waiter approached her table, offering her a glass of champagne, which she gladly accepted. She took a drink of it and listened to the music.

    It was a slow, soulful melody that featured distinct qualities of all the instruments involved. The conglomeration of these different attributes produced a scintillating effect. Will, in the forefront with his trombone, never averted his eyes from Dani as he played. His playing was so expressive, as was the look on his face, it was almost as if he were talking to her.

    Dani had taken a second sip of the champagne before she realized that it was not of the syntheholic variety. This was the real stuff! She looked around for the waiter, but he was nowhere to be seen. How did he get a hold of real champagne? Dani took another sip of it. Damn, it was good! She hadn’t had real champagne in ages. She looked back up at Will, who was staring down at her with amused eyes. ‘He’s laughing at me!’ Dani thought. Then she realized that he must have had the champagne brought to her table. She was inclined to laugh back at him. She watched him turn to the other members of the ensemble and nod to them. She secretly wondered if he had anything else up his sleeve for tonight.

    Dani turned up her glass, draining the rest of the liquid into her mouth. But the glass was not empty, she realized. Something had bumped against her lips as she was drinking the last of the champagne. Dani turned the glass back to its upright position, and the object clinked to the bottom. A ring? Dani poured the ring out into the palm of her hand. It was a pale blue diamond. She looked up at Will, who had left the stage and was now making his way to her table. She looked back down at the ridiculously shiny stone set in a platinum band.

    Will stepped in front of Dani’s table and knelt in front of her. The other musicians were still playing softly as Will began to speak. He took the ring, moist with champagne, in one hand, and her left hand in the other.

    “Dani. Danielle.” Will’s mind went blank. He’d planned everything, every detail, except what he was going to say to her. He decided to forego any long-winded rhetoric and just went straight to the point of it all. “Danielle Janeway – make me a happy man by becoming my wife. Please – marry me?”

    Dani looked into Will’s blue eyes and laughed. “You would be the one to ask me in front of 200 people,” she said.

    “Is that a no?” Will asked, a smile on his own face.

    “No, it isn’t.”

    “Then you’ll marry me?”

    “Of course.”

    Will’s grin widened as he slid the ring onto Dani’s finger. They both stood and wrapped their arms around each other. The room roared with applause and cheer.

    “I love you,” Will said into Dani’s ear.

    “I love you, too,” she responded. They kissed each other and embraced again.

    When they parted, they were surrounded by friends and crewmates offering handshakes, hugs, and congratulations.

    Beverly hugged Dani and congratulated her. “I’m so happy for you,” she said.

    “Thank you,” Dani replied.

    “Congratulations, you two.”

    Dani turned to find that it was Deanna who spoke to her and Will. “Thank you,” both said in unison. Dani didn’t quite know what to think. She knew that Will and Deanna had had a pretty serious relationship at some point, and she knew they were still very close. How close, though?

    “Dani? Dani Janeway?” a voice called out. It was a familiar voice that Dani hadn’t heard in forever. She turned to the direction from which she’d heard her name and saw a person she hadn’t seen in two years. “Rane Skara,” Dani said aloud, a smile coming to her lips. She watched the young Bajoran woman make her way to her position.

    “Dani!” Rane exclaimed, finally reaching her estranged friend. The two embraced excitedly.

    Dani didn’t know what to say. “What are you doing here? I thought you were on the Merriman?”

    “I was. I just transferred here,” Rane said. “I came aboard this morning at Medisna. What about you? I thought you were on Deep Space Nine?”

    “I transferred a few weeks ago,” Dani said happily. She couldn’t believe it. Her and Rane, together again, just like at the Academy. She hugged the woman again. “I can’t believe you’re here,” she told her.

    “I know. Looks like I got here just in time, though.” Rane smiled, pointing her gaze to Will Riker. “Dani…married?”

    “I know. Can you believe it? We haven’t even talked about it or anything. He just…surprised me.” Dani beamed.

    Rane quirked an eyebrow. “The last time I saw you, you were ready to say ‘to hell with Will Riker,’” Rane said, her voice lower than it had been previously. “What gives?”

    Dani released an exasperated sigh. “Oh, Rane – so much has happened in the past two years. I can’t wait to tell you about it all. What’s your work schedule look like?”

    “Well, I won’t know for sure until Sunday, but I think I’m going to be in Engineering during Alpha shift,” Rane surmised. She hadn’t received her official duty schedule, yet, but she’d already corresponded with Commander LaForge, and he’d told her he needed officers for that time.

    “That’s perfect!” Dani said. “I’m on the Bridge at Ops during Alpha shift.” The fact that they were working the same shift would allow them to spend off-duty hours catching up with one another.

    “The Bridge?” Rane said. “My, my – playing in the big leagues, are we.”

    Dani smiled. Skara hadn’t changed a bit. “I’ve missed you so much,” she said. “I’m so glad you’re here.”

    “So am I,” Rane said.

    “We’ll see if you still are once you start helping me plan this wedding,” Dani joked.

    Some slow music started up from the band again, and Will gently lassoed Dani to him, deftly stealing her away from the small crowd of well-wishers. He draped her arms around his neck, and she leaned into him, just letting him and the music carry her. She looked up him, into those impossibly blue eyes, and something in her chest and stomach fluttered. Will smiled at her right after it happened.

    “What?” Dani asked.

    “I didn’t know I could still do that,” he said.

    “Do what?”

    “Cause that kind of reaction in you. Your eyes just got brighter. They dilated for a second.”

    “Yes, you still do it. Just when I think I’m used to seeing them, I’ll look up into your eyes, and my heart will miss a beat.” She sighed. “Oh, I love you so much.”

    Will pulled her to him, and her head rested comfortably on his chest. “I love you, too…imzadi.”

    Dani pulled away. At first she didn’t think she’d heard correctly, but looking up at Will, she realized that she had heard correctly.

    Will noted the expected puzzlement that invaded Dani’s features. “Come on,” he said, leading her to a more secluded spot by a viewport on the other side of the room.

    Will began, “Do you remember that night in San Francisco, before we started dating, when we had dinner with your parents?”

    “I remember,” Dani said.

    “You remember the walk we took afterward, when I kept asking you about Icheb.”

    “How could I forget?” Dani asked, remembering the great annoyance with which she’d fielded Will’s seemingly endless inquiries about her love life.

    “Then, you remember when I asked you if he was your imzadi.” Will looked at her. Her gaze rose to meet his.

    “Yes,” she replied. She wondered where this was going, how it had anything to do with why he’d called her ‘imzadi’ tonight.

    “I said something that night, and you probably just dismissed it as nonsense or whatever.” Will looked at Dani. She was waiting for him to continue. “I implied that your imzadi was someone you’d known but hadn’t become involved with, yet.”

    Dani remembered the conversation vividly. She did remember Will saying something to that effect, but then it hadn’t made any sense to her. Now, though, the pieces were all coming together. Dani stilled the swing.

    “You were talking about yourself,” Dani realized.

    Will didn’t say anything. He just moved in closer to Dani. Cupping the side of her face with his hand, he kissed her.

    Dani didn’t know what to think about what Will had just told her. She loved him, and he loved her, but now she was just confused. The conversation they’d just had awakened new feelings, new questions that Dani hadn’t really given any attention to before. She pushed those feelings aside, though, for the moment. ‘No need to ruin a good moment,’ she justified, returning Will’s kiss enthusiastically.

    xxx

    Later on that night, Dani lay in Will’s bed staring up at the ceiling. Will was beside her, also gazing at the ceiling. Her head rested on his shoulder, and her hand rested on his chest, her fingers playing in the fine hairs that grew there.

    One of her legs draped lazily over his, Dani asked Will out of the blue, “Have you ever thought about having children?”

    Will looked down at Dani. “As a matter of fact, I have,” Will replied.

    Dani hadn’t been expecting that answer. Her surprise resonated in her features. “You look surprised,” Will observed.

    “I am,” Dani said. “You’ve never shown any desire to have children before.”

    “Well, I’ve thought about it,” he said. “Maybe a daughter.” He thought about a little girl, perhaps a tiny replica of Dani, running to greet him after a hard day. Piggyback rides, cooking lessons…boys. An alarm flag went up in his head as he thought about all his previous flings and romps with members of the opposite sex. Suddenly, he wasn’t too keen on having a daughter anymore. He reconsidered. “Or a boy.” His mind suddenly returned to that incident with the alien who’d tricked him into believing that he had a son. It’d given him a taste of fatherhood, and after he’d gotten used to it, he’d liked it. He’d found that even though the experience he’d had had only been an illusion, he missed it.

    “I never told you about the time I had a son, did I?” Will asked.

    Dani looked up at Will, even more shocked than before. “What?”

    “A while ago, we came across this life form that tricked me into believing that I was the captain of the Enterprise and had a 12-year-old son.”

    Dani sat up on her elbow and looked down at Will. “You’re kidding.”

    Will shook his head and gazed at the ceiling, remembering. “No. His mother was supposedly deceased. When I looked through some of our family videos, it didn’t take me long to realize that my ‘wife’ was an image from a holo-program I’d encountered during my first year of service aboard the Enterprise.”

    “Who was the boy?” Dani asked.

    “The boy was the alien. He was lonely, so he took on the form of a human boy, created the illusion, and pretended to be my son.” He looked at Dani, as she began to stroke his hair. “Before that incident I’d never really contemplated fatherhood. All I knew was that if I were ever to become a father, I would be a better father than my own father was.”

    Dani looked down at Will. He would be a better father than Kyle Riker had been. Dani frowned. She imagined that Will must’ve had an unhappy childhood. He didn’t talk much about it, but she knew that he’d never known his mother, and the time he’d spent with his father had apparently been less than perfect. He’d abandoned Will when he was fifteen. Dani leaned down and kissed Will on the forehead. He looked up at her and smiled lightly.

    “What about you?” he asked. “Have you ever thought about gracing the universe with your offspring?”

    Dani laughed sarcastically. “Yeah. Okay. Just what this universe needs – someone who ends up being screwed up because of my wonderful parenting skills.”

    “What do you mean? You’d make a wonderful mother,” Will assured her.

    “No. The prospect of being a parent scares me to death. I mean, parents hold a lot of power. They could really mess a kid up if they didn’t know what they were doing.”

    “Your kid would be fine. In fact, if she was anything like you, she’d be perfect.”

    “Yeah, well, we’ll see,” Dani said, returning to her previous position, lying on Will. “That’s a long time coming, if ever.”

    They lay in silence for a while longer before Will spoke up again. “Since we’re baring our souls, there’s something else I want to tell you.”

    “Yes?”

    “It’s a mission we had a few years ago. Voyager was still in the Delta Quadrant, but here in the Alpha Quadrant, we engaged the Borg.”

    “I remember reading about it,” Dani said. “The Enterprise was supposed to be patrolling the Neutral Zone, but Captain Picard disobeyed those orders to go help fight the Borg. You guys destroyed the Borg cube, and that was it.”

    Will sighed. “No, that wasn’t it.”

    What did he mean ‘that wasn’t it’? She looked up at him “That’s what the report said.”

    “That’s what the public report said,” Will corrected her.

    “Huh?”

    “What I’m about to tell you is top secret. If I tell you this, you have to swear that no one else hears about this.” Dani was up on her elbow again, her curiosity running high. “Whatever I say stays in this room, between us,” Will continued.

    “I swear it,” Dani agreed. “Now, what happened on that mission.”

    Will sat up on his elbow so that he was face-to-face with Dani. “Yes, we destroyed the cube, but what the public report doesn’t reveal is that a smaller Borg sphere escaped from the cube and traveled back in time to Earth’s mid-21st century using some kind of temporal anomaly. We followed them back.” Dani could believe that. Time travel was frowned upon by Starfleet, and most of the missions involving it were usually deemed top secret.

    Will continued. “The Borg went back to assimilate Earth and stop Zephram Cochrane’s warp flight. We had to stop the Borg and make sure Cochrane’s flight went off without a hitch.”

    “You guys must’ve succeeded, or we wouldn’t be here right now,” Dani conjectured. Will nodded, but Dani could see there was more to this story.

    “Dani, Geordi and I were on Cochrane’s ship with him when he made his flight,” Will said. He watched her for her reaction.

    “Will Riker,” Dani said, “you’re bullshitting me, aren’t you?”

    “No.”

    “You’re saying you were on the first Terran warp vessel?”

    Will nodded.

    “Will, that-that’s incredible!” Dani sputtered. “What was it like? I mean, Cochrane – what was he like?”

    Will looked at Dani. “You want the truth?” Dani nodded eagerly. “The guy was a whino,” Will said frankly.

    “Will! Have a little respect! You’re talking about the man who invented warp drive.”

    “Dani, I spent a whole day with the man. The only time he wasn’t drunk was when we were actually going up. I had to stun him to get him that far. The man tried to run away from us.”

    “That certainly shatters my historical image of the guy,” Dani said, sullenly.

    “Yeah, me, too. But he finally sobered up, got serious.” Will lay down on his back again. “We all came out for the better.”

    Dani sighed. “I guess so.” She also lay back down. “As long as you don’t tell me that Shakespeare was a fake or anything, we’ll be okay.”

    xxx

    “…and so then the rock gave way, and I’m just sitting there with Q clinging to my hands, dangling from this little rock landing,” Dani said, telling the story of the adventure she’d just had on Garessa II a few weeks ago. Rane rested comfortably on the sofa in Dani’s quarters. She graciously accepted the cup of tea Dani had just brought her from the replicator.

    Dani finished up the story, as she sat down beside Rane. “I was able to pull him over, and he made it out of the caves with the rest of us, though.”

    “I think I would’ve let him fall,” Rane said, sipping on the warm liquid.

    “I couldn’t do that,” Dani insisted.

    “I could. Especially after he did what he did to you and Will.” Rane grimaced slightly. “And he really transported you to the bridge in the middle of…you know?”

    Dani nodded. She still hadn’t gotten over that completely. “It was so embarrassing. We’re just sitting there on the deck, nothing but a bedsheet around the both of us.” It was one of those things that would probably get funnier as the years went by. As of now, though, Dani felt like she would never live it down.

    She and Rane sat in silence for a while. In the past few hours of the afternoon, they’d talked about almost everything that had happened to Dani in the past few years. Will, life on the Enterprise, her parents. They’d even discussed the play she’d gone to rehearsal for that morning. But there was one chapter of Dani’s life that had noticeably not be talked about, yet.

    Rane was the one who summoned the courage to broach the subject. “Tell me about him,” she said.

    Dani took a long sip of her red leaf tea, and smiled inwardly. He had been the one who’d introduced her to it. “He’s the one who started me drinking this stuff,” she said, staring into the liquid. She placed the cup, now only half-filled with the tea, on the coffee table.

    “What was he like?” Rane asked. She genuinely wanted to know. What could’ve possibly attracted one of her best friends to a man she’d heard horror stories about as a young child?

    “He was…” Dani began, but decided to start again. “The man I knew was wonderful. He was kind and nothing but good to me.” She paused and brought her feet to a position underneath her body on the sofa. “He was a romantic. And he cared a great deal for his daughter. For all his children, but Ziyal was the only one he could actually have contact with. The rest of his family practically disowned him when they found out about her.”

    Rane swallowed. That was certainly different from anything she’d ever heard about the man. “You miss him,” she observed.

    “Very much,” Dani admitted. “The first few weeks after…they were the hardest. Everywhere reminded me of him. And Ziyal…” Dani laughed sadly. “She has his eyes.”

    Rane heard Dani sniff, an indicator that the other woman was on the fringes of crying. If talking about him was having this kind of effect on Dani this long after it had all ended, Rane understood clearly that this had been a man that her friend had been deeply in love with. She was still in love with him, despite the fact that he was dead. A question arose in Rane’s head.

    “If Dukat were still alive,” Rane proposed, uttering the Cardassian’s name for the first time that night, “and you had to choose between him and Will, who would it be?”

    Dani looked at Rane, puzzled. She’d never dreamed that she would ever have to make such a choice, and had never thought about it. How could she make a decision like that? She loved both of them. With Will, there was the history that they both shared. She’d known him since she was eight. Their time apart had been rough for her, and she didn’t want to go through it again. He was a brother, friend, and lover rolled into one person. Being at his side was so natural, it felt like breathing.

    On the other hand, with Marac there had been so much passion, Dani thought. Dukat had been like a drug that she couldn’t get enough of, despite the ramifications her relationship with him had for her personal and professional life. She’d needed to be around him.

    Her face visibly contorted as she grappled with the decision, she finally looked to Rane helplessly. If she were ever presented with the choice, she didn’t know how she would ever be able to choose.