Chapter 1

"I am glad that we were able to become friends, Lanna."

"As am I, Seven. I'm so glad that we were able to get passed our differences and I hope that in the future we can become even closer."

"I would like that, Lanna. Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Seven. Sweet Dreams."

And with that Seven gave the smallest hint of a smile before turning into the cargo bay for her nightly regeneration. It was only with that smile, did Lanna realize what the implications of 'Sweet Dreams' really were. So with a smile of her own, Torres turned back the way she had come heading for the turbolift again. But that smile quickly faded as she thought of the night's previous events. Tom had asked her to marry him again, to renew their vows. But she had turned him down. Flat out said no. It was in that instance that Lanna realized why their relationship seemed to be...... What? Over? On the rocks? Nonexistent? Probably all of the above. Her relationship with her 'husband' was over some time ago. She just didn't realize it then. And because the relationship was already over all they did was argue and fight and hurt each other even to the point that their friendship was on the rocks. Although she still did care for Tom and love him as a friend, their marriage relationship had become nonexistent. The only thing that remained of their marriage was the document saying that they were indeed married. But now what? If that was the only thing left of the marriage should she ask for the document to be dissolved and the marriage annulled? It would be the logical thing to do. 'Listen to me, I'm even starting to sound like Seven.' And despite the severity of the situation, Lanna stepped onto the turbolift with a smile on her face.

She never did realize how ironic it was that, now, everytime she thought of the ex-borg a smile tugged at her lips where as just a few weeks ago it would have been an angry glare.

"Computer, deck 3." 'I think Tom and I need to talk.'

Meanwhile.........

Back in the messhall, the party was still going on. True it may have simmered down and really couldn't be described as a party since everyone just seemed to be milling about but no one had thought to leave yet. Tom, on the other hand, had an excuse. He still stood rooted at the same spot in which his wife had, only moments ago, refused to marry him again. Shock. That's what he was feeling. Shock. He had never expected or anticipated Lanna turning him down. He had been so sure that things were getting better between him and his love but obviously he had misread something. Now what? He still loved B'Elanna. 'But she doesn't love me. Then there really is only one answer. I love her so much but I also want her to be happy. I'm going to have to let her go.'

And with that realization Tom almost felt sick enough to call over the Doc, who was also still milling about with his date. But he thought better of it. 'Maybe I should just leave before Harry is finished getting grilled by the Captain.' As a side thought, Tom wondered why the Captain may have been grilling poor Harry about and by the looks of it Harry WAS getting grilled. 'Poor guy, I can even see the sweat pouring off of him all the way over here. But what would Harry know that the Captain doesn't. Either it's something about communications or something's up with Seven. Whatever it is, I'm sure Harry's got it covered. Right now I need to get out of here.'

But just as Tom was about to make a quiet and stealthy departure he was stopped by some ensign.

"Tom, I just wanted to say how sorry I am for you. I happened to have overheard everthing that went on between you and Lt. Torres." Tom had to wonder about how this ensign, 'God what was her name, Ensign Mary Deeks, that's it' HAPPENED to have overheard every single word exchanged between him and his wife. "And well, I also just wanted to tell you how wrong I thing Torres was for the way she dumped you. She's always been a tempermental, hotheaded Klingon who is just so unworthy of your love. She just so aggressive and bossy and mean and obnoxious and stupid. I mean the fact that she turned you down and dumped such a handsome, smart, funny man just prove how stupid she really is. I mean she was maquis and......"

"ENOUGH! How dare you insult my wife like that. I still do love her. I love all of her attributes as well as her faults. She may be tempermental but she is also passionate about those that she cares about. She may be hotheaded but she gets to the point of things instead of skipping in and around the bush. And she is NOT stupid. She is one of the most intelligent people on this ship. In fact she was so smart as to know what she wants even if it isn't me and no matter how ard we try our marriage just wasn't going to work. She's arrogant but has a right be. She's tough to work with but only because she expects the best as that's what she always gives. She has this wit about her that if you aren't close to her you would never know existed. And I love her, damn it! So don't you dare say another bad word about my soon to be ex. Or you are going to wish you a had a hotheaded, tempermental Klingon to deal with instead of me. Now get out of my way!" And with that Tom stormed out of the messhall leaving behind a stunned audience as well as an extremely hurt, embarrashed, and scorned woman.

Neelix noticed that the stunned silence seemed to be carrying on a bit too long so he rushed over to see about getting some new music to playand maybe some people to dance.

In the next moment Chakotay came walking back into the messhall and headed over to where a certain Captain and Ensign seemed to be talking heatedly.

"Captain, I really should be going. I want to see if Tom's alright."

"But Harry, I still have a few questions I need answered, NOW."

"Captain, I've already told you I don't know anything that is going on with Seven. I'm as much in the dark as you are. Now if you will excuse me." Harry yanked his arm out of the grip of the Captain and stormed away hoping to catch up with Tom. "Commander." Harry at least had the curtousy to acknowledge as he brushed past him.

"Chakotay, just the man I wanted to see. I want answers and I want them now. What was going on with Seven earlier? It's not like her to be so clumsy and why were you and B'Elanna escorting her out as if she seemed like she was going to break just like the glass?"

"Captain, I think that's something you might want to ask Seven. It's really not my place."

"So something is going on. And both you and the lieutenant know what that is. Oh don't worry I plan on asking Seven herself but right now I want to know what you know."

"I can't, Captain, counselor/patient confidnetiality. Even if I wanted to tell you, which I don't, about what Seven is going through I couldn't. What I can tell you is that Seven is not in any physical danger nor is it affecting the ship or it's crew in any manner. It is personal."

"Commander......" Janeway managed to growl out.

"I am sorry Captain. Now if you'll excuse me I see someone else I have to talk to." And so the Commander left a fumming starship Captain to her own devices.

"Fine, if he won't tell me anything then maybe a hotheaded Klingon will." With that Janeway stomped off just in the same manner as Tom had done before. This time she only had an audience of two to witness such unbecoming behavior from a starship captain.

"Neelix, I'm kinda worried about the Captain. She seems to be acting more and more out of character especially where Seven's concerned."

"I agree Sam, but I have no idea why Janeway is acting all out of sorts and least of all I have no idea how to fix it."

"Well, I think it's pretty obvious. Janeway has feeings for Seven, and I'm not talking maternal instinct here. I've been watching her lately, ever since that day when the Capain brought Seven over for breakfast right after she had woken up from her dream, and from what I've seen, Janeway's fallen in love."

"With Seven?!"

"Yes with Seven. Think about it. Seven is the only one on this ship that stands up to Janeway, that sees her as an equal not as the hero worshiped Voyager captain the rest see her as. Sevens's also the only one who truely callenges the captain not only on ship's business but also on humanity and personal issues. Seven's beuatiful, smart, funny how could she not fall in love with her."

"But... why do I hear a but coming?"

"But, I don't think Seven's in love with the captain. And if I'm right then this could lead to a very big mess for our favorite ex-drone."

"How so?"

"Well, Seven really doesn't know that much about human romance and could end up getting hurt in various ways. Seven does look up to Janeway and admires her and does love her but as a friend. What if, if Seven knows Janeway is in love with her and agrees to date her just so that she doesn't end up hurting the captain? Seven could be the one in the end hurt. Or what if Seven becomes to uncomfortable around Janeway wen she finds out but doesn't know how to deal with? I just think that Seven may need some help in this situation."

"Hm, someone or perhaps some people to just keep an eye on things, maybe even have a little chat with her."

"Neelix you are so considerate."

"And here I thought I was just being an old fuddy duudy as Naomi would say." That earned a soft but very sweet kiss from Sam well placed on the tip of the Telaxian's nose.

"You may be an old fuddy duddy but that's why I like you. I mean I sort of see Seven as a semi-daughter being that she and Naomi are so close. I just want to make sure Seven's okay."

"Me too. And if Seven's your semi-daughter then I guess that wold make her my semi-semi-niece. I've always wanted one of those."

"Neelix, you're too much. I think that tommorrow I'm going to have a talk with Seven and see what's going on but for right now I think we need to put an end to this party." Both Sam and Neelix looked around the room to see just about everyone either sitting or standing just talking in hushed tones.

"Yeah, I think you're right. This party was over long before Seven dropped her glass."

And so Neelix and Sam began to usher out the few remaining party goers so that hopefully they could get this mess cleaned up before the morning breakfast hour.

Chapter 2

Janeway stormed down the corridors and God forbid you were one of the ones who happened to be in the way. Poor crewman Lindsey almost got her head chopped off as Kathryn brushed passed her. But not even the mumbled apology was able to slow this determined captain down. She had a woman to interrogate, I mean question. And just as Janeway had rounded the corner coming into site with the door that lead to the Paris-Torres quarters she forcibly slowed herself to a calm walk. It would not do to have the captain come barging in demanding answers. 'Torres may not be willing to tell me anything if she sees me as a threat. And I've been noticing how damned protective of Seven she can be lately. If anything's going on..... Kim?! What's he doing here?' Janeway skidded to halt when she saw Harry Kim pacing back and forth in front of the door she wanted to get into. 'If he's here then that must mean that Tom's in there. And so is Torres as I just asked the computer where her location was. Double damn. Well I guess I'll finally get to try out that captain's privilege I've heard so much about.' Kathryn stormed right passed Kim and went to ring the chime to the door.

"Captain?! What are doing? Tom and Lanna are in there. I'm sure they're talking things out and don't wish to be disturbed," Harry said as he reached to prevent Janeway from ringing the chime.

"You're sure they're talking things out? You mean you don't know?"

"Well, not exactly. See I followed Tom to his quarters but was unable to catch up to him in time before he entered them. Then I asked the computer for B'Elanna's location and when it said she too was in her quarters I knew enough not to disturb them," Kim explained as he began his pacing all over again.

"Are you implying Ensign, that I do not know better?" Janeway saidthrough gritted teeth. Again Harry stopped up short suddenly realizing how what he had just said might have sounded.

"Uh, no, I uh, you see, I'm just really worried about Tom right now. I know how much he loves Lanna but I can also see how this relationship is truely over. I'm afraid that Tom is going to get really hurt either way this thing turns out. I'm sorry, Captain, if I've offended you, I'm just worried. I'm sure you understand." Harry hinted at the worry the captain was currently feeling in regards to Seven's wellbeing.

"No Harry, you haven't offended me. I guess I can relate to being worried too. Mind if I join you in your pacing Ensign?" The steam had suddenly been let out of Kathryn's tiraid as she realized that picking on poor Harry was not going to help the situation any. But maybe pacing will.

While the marathon of pacing was about to get under way in the corridor, the two occupants inside the quarters had other things to worry about.

"Lanna."

"Tom."

These were the first and only words spoken in the stillness of the darkened quarters. Both were sitting on the couch, neither could look at the other, and yet no one seemed to be doing anything about it. That is until Tom's forced bravodo along with his natural charm asserted itself.

"So... I guess this is it?"

"I'm sorry." It may have only been a whisper but that whisper contained such deep emotion that Tom could never doubt the sincerity of it.

"So am I but we both saw this coming, didn't we?"

"No we didn't. At least I didn't. I was so busy trying to ignor our failing relationship that I didn't realize it was already over. Not until earlier when you proposed to me again. It's hard to explain but it just hit me. I don't want to marry you. I want to be your friend. But that's the problem isn't? We're already married."

"So you regret that we ever got married?" If tears were sounds that your voice made when sad, then Tom would be crying a small river full.

"NO! I never said that. Nor will I ever say that. Tom it may have been a mistake to get married but I did and still do love you. I'm just not in lve with you. I've enjoyed spending time with you and sharing a home with you and being a family with you but that time is unfortunately over. Do you understand?" Lanna carressed the side of Tom's face wiping away the invisible tears she knew he must be crying.

"I do understand. Although I didn't see it coming either as I was too busy trying to fix it, I can see that it is over now. I think we should go see the captain in the morning and get our marriage annulled. It's the only thing left to do. I want you to be happy Lanna and if that's not with me then that's fine but please be happy. I love you." Lanna was the one now moved to tears. Never in her life had anyone cared so much for her that all they wished was for her to be happy. Even at the sacrifice of their own happiness.

"I love you too. And I hope that we can still be friends?"

"Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way. So I guess I shoud call Harry and see if I can bunk over at his place tonight." Tom seemed to be getting tired of all the emotional talk.

"No that's not necessary, you can stay here tonight."

"Are you sure? I mean it's really no...."

"Yes I'm sure. This is still your quarters, too. And we are still married, at least until tommorrow that is." Lanna managed a smile through the tears. Suddenly, despite the saddness she felt deep in her heart, Lanna felt like a huge weight had finally been lifted from her shoulders.

"Alright then, if it's no problem. But I insist on taking the couch. And then perhaps when we wake up tommorrow I'll make you some of my famous peanutbutter toast and we can figure out if I can get my old quarters back. Say wanna help me move?" Tom asked in a suprisingly jovial mood as both he and his soon to be ex walked into the bedroom.

"No."

"Hey....."

Even though Tom may be leaving the only woman he had ever truely loved, the only one he would have ever considered settling down for, he knew that this was for the best. Now their relationship seemed more relaxed, more easy going, more like the relationship had been before that day of the race in which he propsed to Lanna. Marriage just seemed to be wrong now in comparison to a healthy friendship between the two.

Meanwhile.........

Lap 4054:

"Computer are the combadges on lieutenants Tom Paris and B'Elanna Torres still active?"

"Negative."

"Well, I guess they sorted everything out and went to bed. But I'm sure Tom would have been coming out of the quarters all dejected needing a place to stay tonight. I mean I was waiting here so that I could walk him to my quarters."

"And I guess that means I won't be talking with Torres tonight."

"Well, you can always go and talk with Seven. I'm sure she's going to be waking up soon from regeneration. Then talk with B'Elanna afterwards."

"Actually Ensign, I believe it is getting late and if I don't want to be drinking coffee constantly tommorrow during the alpha shift I think I need some sleep too. Goodnight, Harry."

"Night, Captain."

Kim watched as Janeway strode away. 'Maybe she always walks in a determined manner. I just hope that she is just determined to go to sleep and not something else.'

* * *

"Regeneration Cycle Complete."

Seven's eyes snapped open as those words penetrated her conscious mind. But perhaps thhose eyes opened a little too quickly as suddenly Seven felt very dizzy and nearly collapsed. Saved by a pair of willowy but strong arms.

"Seven, Seven? Are you okay?"

"I, uh am functioning, I think."

At that very atypically response a hand immediately went to tap a combadge.

"No, you don't have to contact sickbay, Ensign Wildman. I believe I am 'feeling better' now. I was momentarily dizzy but appear to be recovering as we speak."

"But Seven you dont get dizzy. Something has to be wrong. I really should contact the Doctor." Even as Sam was saying this Seven was getting back on her feet. Without saying a word, Seven went to the console for the alcove and began punching in commands.

"The alcove appears to be functioning properly and the medical scan the alcove just performed on me seems to indicate the same. I was just dizzy, Sam. Perhaps it as because as of late I have been practicing to sleep and when I do fall asleep my body becomes accustomed to lying down therefore now that I regenerate standing again I may have become dizzy."

"Seven, that is the worst excuse I have ever heard but if the medical scans say you're fine and you look to be fine then I guess I'll have to take your word for it. Besides I hate going to the doctors, too," Sam answered with a smile but silently vowed to keep a closer eye on her friend.

"Now that we have established my well being, perhaps you would like to explain what brings you to the cargo bay."

"Well, Seven, I just thought I'd invite you to dinner tonight, my place. Naomi going on this campout with Neelix in the holodeck and I thought it'd be a great time for us to just... hangout. What do you say? Care to experience some good old fashioned girl talk?"

"Indeed?" Seven raised her implant in a way which projected the humor she found in the situation. "I believe I would enjoy having dinner with you tonight, Sam. What time would you like for me to arrive?"

"How does 1800 sound?"

"Acceptable."

"Good, see you then. Have a nice day Seven."

"As will you Sam."

Samantha Wildman left the cargo bay heading for her station as the alpha shift was soon to begin. Seven on the other hand went straight to work on her console as per her morning routine with the noticble difference of an added smile gracing those luscious lips.

'Today, I believe shall prove to be an interesting day.'

Chapter 3

The day began like any other day. After Seven had finished her early morning routine, she headed off towards the bridge for the weekly morning senior staff meeting. Since nothing big had happened in the past few days, and it was smooth sailing through the Delta Quadrant, the meeting was more a discussion group then anything else. Suggestions for engineering projects were discussed, ideas for holoprograms were mentioned, thoughts on possible away missions were brought up. All in all, it was a very dull meeting for Seven. Although no one would even suspect, let alone consider, that Seven was prone to 'spacing out' that's exactly what she was doing at this moment. Though Seven had yet to master the art of imagination she still had the ability to replay certain events over in her mind, like the previous night in which B'Elanna Torres had wised her sweet dreams. Perhaps it was over analyzing things too much to say that Lieutenant Torres had accompanied Seven 'home' that night instead of staying with Tom Paris. Perhaps she was hoping for more then what was really there. But none-the-less a smile came unbiddened to her lips. A smile that went unnoticed by all in the room, except for one.

'Kahless, she has such a beautiful smile. I never actually believed in the cliche that a smile could be able to light up a room. That is until I saw her smile. I wonder what she's thinking about,' Torres thought to herself, also utterly bored with the meeting that was suppose to be taking place.

Time kept on ticking away as one suggestion after another was brought up and discussed. But before Seven knew it, the meeting had ended. 'Perhaps there is a positive aspect to daydreaming afterall,' Seven thought as she realized that everyone was begining to exit the room. Slowly standing up and collecting her pads, Seven noticed that two other individuals had remained behind with the captain. Tom and B'Elanna were standing very close together and laughing and smiling at each other while waiting for the Captain's attention. Seven suddenly realized that last night at the party both Lieutenants must have accomplished their reconcilation ater all if this morning's actions were any indication.

Seven's heart suddenly plummeted to the bottom of her stomach as she became very queasy and dizzy. A slight ringing could be heard in her ears as red clouded over her vision. Seven turned and stormed out of the conference room thinking, 'So this is what jealousy feels like.'

"Oh wait, before we begin, give me a minute I wanted to ask Seven something." Lanna turned around calling out to an empty room, "Hey Seven, I was wondering if you........ wanted to grab some breakfast?" Lanna finished in a subdued and disappointed voice. One moment Seven was there then the next she's gone and doesn't even say goodbye. The engineer had a few new developements, namely about her break-up with Tom, that she wished to discuss over breakfast with her friend. And now she was just gone. 'Something has to be up. Maybe she's still upset about Gavens or maybe he did something to her again. Guess I'll have to pay Gavens a visit before I talk with Seven.' For the past few weeks now, Lanna had developed this mean protective streak when it came to her ex-drone and even if it wasn't true that Gavens had done something more to Seven then the 'talk' would still be a good preemptive strike to take.

"Lt. Torres, I'm so glad you stayed behind as I have been meaning to ask you a few questions. But first, what can I do for you Tom?" Janeway immediately began once she finished organizing herself.

Torres noticed the captain's use of her rank and last name as compared to her use of Tom's first name. So not only was something going on with Seven but it seemed that poor Janey had a bug up her ass too. 'Well, two can play at this game.'

"Actually, 'Captain,' Tom and I wanted to talk to you about getting our marriage annulled." Not only had Lanna managed to beat Tom to answering but she also managed to shock poor Janey enough so that she managed to sputter out her coffee which she just took a sip off. Lanna had to repress a giggle as Janeway coughed and gaged all the while trying desperately to wipe of the hot coffee ow staining her pants. 'Point B'Elanna. I wonder, is it too early to call game yet?' Lanna thought to herself as Tom leaned over and whispered in her ear.

"That was evil. Pure genius but evil none-the-less."

"You want to run that by me one more time, Lieutenant," the captain asked after she had finished wiping up as best she could the scaulding hot coffee now deposited on her legs instead of in her cup.

"Captain, last night at the party both Tom and I realized that our marriage was over. After a long emotional talk we both came to the decision that we were always meant to be friends not lovers. So without going into too much personal detail we'd like to ask you to disolve our marriage licence under the statute of mutual understanding."

"Tom, do you agree? Is this what you want?"

"Yes, Captain. As Lanna already mentioned our marriage was over before it even began it just took us this long to realize that. We'd much rather be best friends than fighting lovers."

"Well, if you're sure. I will speak to Tuvok about arranging the necessary paper work and then you'll both have two days time to come to either of us to contest the annolement. After that, you'll just have to sign some paper work and then it'll be finialized and added into the computer's logs."

"Thanks, Captain, we really appreciate this."

"Well, I have to get going as an engineer's job is never done."

"Yeah me too. Bye Captain."

Both Torres and Paris nearly ran out of the conference room no longer able to cotain their giggles. Entering into the turbolift both occupants stated their differing destinations.

"Oh my god, did you see the look on Janeway's face when I actually agreed to the divorce? I didn't know that her jaw could actually open that wide."

"Oh god, if it was this fun shocking the hell out of the captain then I can't wait to tell the rest of our friends. Are you going to go tell Harry or do you want to wait on that? At breakfast this morning I wanted to talk to Seven about it, but if you want to keep this under wraps a while longer we could do that." Tom was semi-suprised at hearing the mention of Seven's name but chalked it up to the women's growing friendship.

"Naw, we don't have to wait. Actually I'm on my way now to see Harry and I'd figure I would drop the bomb on him now while I'm at it so if you want to tell Seven be my guest. Actually that reminds me, later I have a meeting with Chakotay about getting new quarters and I'm sure he'll ask why so I'll have to tell him too. Will that be a problem?"

"Nope, have fun breaking the news. Well, this is my stop. Catch you later, Tom."

"Bye Lanna." 'Hey non-married life doesn't seem to be that bad afterall,' Tom thought to himself as a smile crept up on his face. He hadn't had this much fun with Lanna since before the started dating. 'God why didn't we do this sooner?'

Meanwhile back in the conference room Janeway had yet to move from her seat. 'They're divorcing. I can't believe it. I thought that last night that things were all sorted out. That's why I didn't disturb them....... Oh damn it, I forgot to talk with Torres about Seven. Damn it, damn it, damn it. And now I'm sure that with Tom out of the picture Torres will be spending even more time with Seven, her new best friend. But I'll be damned if that little thing of a woman gets in my way to win Seven's heart.'

* * *

"Gavens! Hey Gavens, get your ass down to my office. We have to talk." Lanna stormed into her office and for the umptenth time wished for a real door to slam, not these automatic sliding doors. 'Guess I'll just have to settle for slamming my fist into Gavens's face.'

"Lieutenant, you wanted to see me?" Gavens actually looked slightly frightened as he asked that question.

"Yeah. I want to know what's up between you and Seven of Nine. First she runs out of engineering after working with you and then you give her this nasty look while at the party last night. Now what in Stovokor is going on with you?"

"With me? Why not ask Seven that question as she seems to be the one with the problem. I have done nothing wrong here and yet here I am being accussed of something. Maybe she's the one with the problems. No telling how screwed up she really is underneath all that Borg armor."

"You P'taQ! Seven has never been unnerved by anyone before nor has she shown signs of any problems before," Lanna gritted out through clenched teeth as she slammed Gavens back into the wall holding him up by the shirt. "Seven has done an exceptional job of being able to adapt to a whole new life on board Voyager and is trying her damnedest to be more human everyday. It's people like you who give her such a hard time and cause her problems that she does not deserve."

Gavens managed to swat the hand away that held a light grip on his shirt collar. "Yeah and people like you if I remember correctly, 'Lieutenant'."

Lanna impulsively swung her fist and connected with Gavens's face effectively breaking his cheek bone. Gavens' hand immediately flew up to the spot in which he was just hit only to come away dripping with blood.

"Bitch!" Gavens swung back and hard. He heard a crunch and assumed that it must have been Lanna's nose. He then rammed his shoulder into her abdomen and forced her backwards in the wall behind her. Again another crunch, this time some ribs. And just as Gavens was beginning to strike again a hand grabbed his right left fist in midflight. Screaming out in agony as that same hand closed even tighter around his fist. Gavens now brought to is knees looked up into stormy blue eyes.

"You will cease this activity before I break more bones in YOUR body then you ever knew existed." Seven's rage soon encompased her entire being until she began to feel dizzy. A slight buzzing noise was heard somewhere in the background but it wasn't paid attention to as Seven's eyes became locked with the would-be attacker.

"Bitch, you're breaking my hand." Gavens now had tears running down his cheeks from the immense pain he was in. At his comment Seven lifted Gavens up off the floor and flung him out of the office and across half of engineering.

"As I said before, I will break more than the bones in your hand if you do not back down." Seven had to close her eyes for a moment as the noise suddenly became quite loud and distracting. But no one else noticed this momentary lapse on the part of the ex-Borg's. Lanna was still on the floor trying to gather her wits about herself while the rest of the engineering team was too busy holding Gavens back.

Though as soon as Seven had opened her eyes again she noticed that Gavens had a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. Obviously he had seen the lapse and thought that he had gotten the better of Seven. 'He is wrong. He will no longer effect how I feel and think. He is insignificant and right now Lanna is hurt.'

"Lt. Carey, please have Lt. Gavens here escorted to sickbay and do not alert security. I believe this misunderstanding is over. Is that correct, Lt. Gavens?"

"Yes, 'Ma'am'." If his hands were not being held back Gavens just might have saluted Seven just to mock her 'orders'.

"Good, I shall escort Lt. Torres to sickbay. And as for the rest of you, I do believe there are tasks to be completed. Lt. Vorik, you are now in charge of engineering." As Seven finished her little speech she was suddenly reminded of what it was like captaining Voyager a month ago. Gee, how she missed that.

And so Seven lifted Lanna up into her arms despite the woman's protests and carried her out of engineering. An interesting day indeed. And to think, the day's only half over.

Chapter 4

An interesting day indeed. After bringing Lanna and Gavens to sickbay, Seven had to use diplomatic skills she never even knew she had to convince the Doctor not to report this incident to the Captain. Of course Seven didn't want to have Lanna get into trouble for striking a junior officer but also she knew if this was brought to the Captain she would hound herself and Lanna into revealing why Lanna was so furious at Gavens and why Seven was so frightened of him. And that was not something she was looking forward to doing. So after much convincing, cajoling and promising the Doctor agreed to not bring this to the Captain's attention, but he did say this had to go into his medical logs and he could not help it if Janeway looks at the logs and discovers the truth.

So Gavens was given the rest of the day off as well as some holodeck time, donated by Seven, to help him 'cool off'. Seven was quite confident that Gavens would not mention the incident to anyone because of the trouble he would get into as well for striking a senior officer. Not to mention Seven thought her threats were also very convincing tools to use. She also knew that the engineering department wouldn't say a word because of their loyalty to their chief engineer. Besides as far as they knew the incident was reported by Seven and taken care of.

Now Seven was left walking alone with B'Elanna heading towards the messhall for a late lunch.

"You know Seven, when I first heard about your dream and you being captain, I had my doubts about you ever being able to be a good captain. But the way you handled things down in engineering and how you handled the Doc really got me to wondering how in the world I could have ever doubted you being a great captain. Janeway really taught you well didn't she?"

"Indeed. She gave me an example of what a great leader should do and should not do. She showed me how to do it and when to do it. But I believe that it was my experience in my dream that really allowed me to learn first hand how to be a great captain, as well as learn from some great guidance a certain half-Klingon gave to me." Seven looked over to where Lanna was waking beside her and noticed a blush that seemed to crawl across the woman's skin.

"Well, thanks Seven. Say how come you ran out the conference room this morning? Was something the matter?"

"No, Lieutenant, I was just in a hurry to leave. Why, did you need to speak to me about something?" Seven managed to not lie about why she left in such a hurry and also managed to shift the conversation back to Torres. But with all this, Lanna still managed to see the ice princess begin to rear her ugly head. 'Did it just get chilly in here or is it me?'

"Well, I just wanted to ask you out to breakfast before heading to engineering. But how about we go to lunch instead? I have news to tell you." Lanna let it slide that she saw Seven's walls go up and hoped that if she just stayed calm and engaged the woman in conversation those walls would come tumbling down again.

Through out lunch Torres told Seven all about what had transpired last night after the party. About how she had realized that she no longer loved Tom and how she would be much happier just being his friend. She also mentioned how much of a great guy Tom was being about the breakup and how even though he still did love her he was willing to give her up so that she could be happy. That last sentiment sort of reminded Lanna of the Sweetheart's Day secret admirer she had. That person was willing to love B'Elanna from a far even though his heart was breaking just so that she could be happy. Even Seven seemed to have some of the same thinking. Though Lanna could not completely read Seven's thoughts or feelings on the subject she sensed that Seven was happy for her. Even though it was a sad time considering the breakup, Seven seemed genuinely happy for her as Lanna finally figured out what she wanted, what would make her happy. Seven and Torres had a long talk about Gavens as well in which Seven sternly told the engineer not to engage in any further physical altercations with the man as she would deal with him. Of course a small argument ensued but both agreed not to do anything to provoke the man until Chakotay was able to do some discrete searching. It was a start at least. Seven agreed to stay away from Gavens and Lanna agreed not to hit him any more.

"Unless of course he deserves it."

"Lanna," Seven admonished in a small growl.

"Oh all right, no more physical altercations," Torres mocked. "But for right now, I have to head back to engineering. Are you coming?"

"Yes, I will be there shortly."

"Alright see you then. And try not to take too long. I might just miss your insulting corrections on my work."

"Indeed. If I am late then I shall make up for that by pointing out ALL of your mistakes, not just the relevant ones."

"Oh joy, I can't wait," Lanna drawled right before she burst out laughing soon followed by Seven.

* * *

Walking down the corridor heading to main engineering, B'Elanna became lost in her thoughts. Now that the whole situation with Tom was resolved she was able to analyze what was happening between her and Seven. A friendship. But a friendship that seemed to be growing at warp speed? Just over a week ago she was at odds with the woman whom she called 'ice princess', 'borg', 'drone', and many other terrible things. Gavens was right. How was she suppose to look down on anyone who disliked Seven just as she had previously? Did she have any right to? Yes, yes she did. If not for herself then for Seven. Seven had only a few friends and had such a hard time fitting in. If she could be her friend and stick up for her when others looked down on her, then maybe she could finally begin to make things up to Seven. Maybe she could show her what being loved was really all about. 'Love?' Where in the hell did that come from? Maybe I mean the love of a friend? But why did it feel like so much more?

"Umph. Ug, sorry Captain. I wasn't really paying attention to where I was going," Torres apologized as she picked herself up off the floor.

"That's okay, Lieutenant."

'Here we go with the Lt. again.'

"Actually I'm glad I bumped into you," Janeway snickered at her own little joke but then scowled at Lanna who didn't seem to find it that amusing. "I've been meaning to ask you a few questions."

"About?" 'God can't this lady spit it out already I have to figure out if I'm in love with Seven. Wait a minute, in love with her? How, what, why, oh my god.'

"Well, it's about Seven...."

"Seven, what happened? Is she okay? What did you hear?"

"Nothing that's what I wanted to ask you. That night a the party, Seven became very skittish and dropped her glass. She was then escorted out of the party by you and Chakotay and now I want to know why."

"I'm sorry, Captain, but that I can't tell you. That's something you'll have to ask of Seven."

"Damn it. That's exactly what Chakotay said."

"Then it's sound advice. One you should listen to." Lanna tried to leave but was stopped by a tight grip on her upper arm. "Captain," Torres warned.

"Lieutenant, I want to know what is going on and now. I will not take no for answer."

"Well, that's a shame cause it's the only answer you'll get from me. I will NOT betray Seven's trust. If she wants to tell you then she'll tell you. But that's what you're afraid of aren't you? That she won't want to tell you and then you'll be left in the dark."

"You listen here, Torres." Janeway shoved B'Elanna back into a wall. "I care for Seven, a lot, and if she is hurting or in trouble then I want to know about it." Torres for the most part managed to stay calm and not strike the captain physically but she managed to do so verbally.

"Oh, so let me get this straight. All of a sudden you want to be the knight in shining armor just like when Seven was dying from her node failure and where did she go for comfort? Engineering. Or what about when You returned the borg children back to their families. Did you ever have a talk with Seven about how she felt about it. No I did. Or how about when you went gallivanting around with your holodeck blowup doll? Did you ever get to reschedule all those velocity matches you missed with Seven? And now you want to suddenly be the one to comfort Seven and see to her every need? Well you're a bit too late." Whatever Lanna had just said may or may not have made sense but it did the job she wanted them to do, they hurt Kathryn.

"Bitch." <slap>

"Grrr, why does everyone insist on calling me that today?" And with that Lanna launched herself onto Janeway.

* * *

A few minutes later and both women being badly bruised and having several open wounds wee both being dragged to sickbay by Tuvok and Chakotay.

* * *

While the Doc was busy admonishing Torres for being brought into sickbay twice that day both Chakotay and Tuvok were admonishing Captain Kathryn Janeway.

"The behavior was very unbecoming of a captain and even less becoming of this ship's only leader."

"Kathryn, what were you thinking? If the crew ever found out that you got into a brawl with one of your crew, who knows what that could do to morale."

"Tuvok, I want to press charges."

"Captain, that is a very unwise decision again as your decision to engage in a physical altercation was as well. As the Commander, has stated it would not be beneficial to have the crew find out why Lt. Torres will be put in the brig. Also on a side note, if I imprison the lieutenant, then will have to imprison you as well."

"Fine, Tuvok. Don't throw her in the brig where she belongs but I want security to keep an extra close eye on her. And Chakotay, you're job'll be to make sure she stays the hell away from me." Janeway stormed off thinking up evil devilish ways to keep the half-Klingon far away from her, and Seven.

"I knew there'd be problems if Janeway ever found out that Seven was not interested in her. I just knew it."

"Excuse me, Commander?"

"Nothing Tuvok. Just thinking about how interesting today has been."

"Indeed. And the day is yet to be over."

"Indeed."

* * *

Meanwhile Seven had finally arrived down in engineering and was looking for B'Elanna.

"Vorik. Have you seen Lt. Torres?"

"No, Seven, she has yet to return from her lunch break."

Seven suddenly got worried. That was over an hour ago when she had left the chief engineer's company.

"Computer, locate Lt. Torres."

"Lt. Torres is in sickbay."

Seven suddenly panicked. Worry consumed her every being. 'Perhaps Gavens had exacted his revenge on Lanna for the altercation earlier that day.' That and many other scenarios swam about in her head ever increasing the panic she already felt as she practically ran to sickbay. She must be okay, she must be okay.

Seven's breathing had become erratic and there was that constant dizziness she has been feeling all day. And yet again the buzzing. But now was not the time to think about that. She had to get to Lanna.

Seven arrived in sickbay and nearly collapsed from the overwhelming buzzing and dizziness she felt. But her need to know if B'Elanna was alright kept her upright and in control, for the most part. Seven made her way over to where Lanna was sitting on a biobed. Cupping her face in her hands, Seven gave the woman a once over making sure she was not injured.

"You are not injured. What happened?"

"Oh, nothing much. I just got involved in another scuffle that's all." Torres was thoroughly enjoying the contact of Seven's fingers on her skin and thought that if this was the result of getting into a fight with the captain she'd gladly do it again.

"Another fight?"

"No not with Gavens. This time it was the captain. She wanted to pry some information out of me and when I wouldn't give it to her she got physical."

"What kind of information?"

"Information about you. She seems to be falling in love with you and when she saw you shaken during the party she wanted to know why."

"Why did she not come and see me then, ask me?"

"Probably because she knew that you wouldn't tell her and no matter how hard she pressured you to tell her you wouldn't cave in."

"Indeed," Seven said through clenched teeth. Perhaps she would need to speak with Janey after all.

"Now Seven, I know that look and Janeway is my problem and....."

"Wildman to Seven."

"Go ahead Sam."

"Are we still on for dinner tonight?"

"Yes, of course. Why would you ask?"

"Because you're an hour late."

"My apologies Sam. I was detained but I will arrive shortly. Seven out."

"You I guess you had better get going and no thinking about poor misguided Janey. Love tends to make you do strange things."

"Indeed. I will contact you later, B'Elanna, to further discuss this matter."

"I'll be waiting," Lanna said with a smile as she watched Seven's hips sway back and forth while she walked out of the room. "God, I really have some thinking to do."

"What was that, Lieutenant?"

"Nothing Doc."

And the day is still not over yet.

Chapters 5 to 8