Chapter One
Archer was running on the treadmill. Sure it was late, but he was getting used to these late night diversions to keep his mind off things. Things: T�Pol. He�d been feeling antsy lately. It started after Porthos contracted a virus and he�d spent a night in sickbay, but had been lurking in his brain even before that.
�Sub-commander, T�Pol to Captain Archer.�
He hurried over to the com and said breathlessly, �Archer here. Go ahead.�
�Captain a Vulcan shuttle is approaching � the Srevan. The ship has hailed us; its crew person is asking to tour Enterprise. May I allow them to dock?�
�Yes,� he said. Although he didn�t want anyone poking around his ship, he hated to think Admiral Forest would suffer for some failing in his diplomacy.
�She should be arriving in one hour.�
He thought, �Sometimes space is just too damned small. Vulcans. Great.� He spoke into the com, �Understood. I�ll meet you at the docking bay.� He grumbled to himself, �At least I have time for a shower.�
Chapter Two
At the docking bay, T�Pol stood with her hands behind her back. If Archer didn�t know any better, he would say she was eager to see this guest. He couldn�t really blame her; it�d been almost a year since she�d seen anyone of her own species.
As the docking bay hatch opened, a tall, beautiful Vulcan woman strode out. She had traditional blue metallic Vulcan robes on, that rustled on the ground. Her hair was longer than T�Pol�s and she seemed tanner.
T�Pol formed her hand into a gesture with her fingers separated in a �V.� She said, �Welcome to the Enterprise, Commander T�Kar.�
The woman greeted her in the same symbol. �I will � enjoy � this visit, Sub-commander T�Pol.� She looked at Archer and shot up an eyebrow.
Archer smiled. He knew Vulcans didn�t shake hands; he always felt unsure what to do with his hands when he met them. He decided to put them tensely to his side. �I�m Captain Jonathan Archer.�
She nodded. �I have heard much about you, Captain Archer. Whether you know it or not, you have earned yourself a reputation with Vulcan High Command.�
He grinned. �I hope a good one.�
She inclined her head without affirming or denying. He took that to mean that he had a bad reputation. He wasn�t surprised really; in fact he was more bemused if anything. The party began walking down the corridor.
T�Pol began, �I would be � happy � to show you around the ship, T�Kar. It has been a long time since we last spoke.�
�True,� she said.
Archer scratched his head. �You mean you two know each other?� He looked at both of them and noticed for the first time they were roughly the same age and looked somewhat alike.
T�Pol nodded. �Indeed. We were in the Vulcan High Command together as new � recruits.�
T�Kar added, �We are the same age � the youngest in our class. Since she is a family member, it was easy for us to �.� She looked at T�Pol and said something in Vulcan.
T�Pol responded and finished the sentence, �It is called friendship in English.�
Archer raised his eyebrows. Although they were the same age, he thought it interesting that T�Kar had a higher rank. He thought it sweet to think of them as friends.
T�Pol nodded. �In addition, she is my mother�s sister�s child.�
Archer nodded. �Ah, cousins.� His grin widened.
T�Kar furrowed her eyebrows slightly. �I do not understand. Is that not what she said?� She said something to T�Pol in Vulcan.
T�Pol looked at Archer. �Humans sometimes state the obvious; it helps to garner an understanding of what has happened.�
Archer was beginning to feel nervous, his smile became more of a smirk.
T�Kar inclined her head toward Archer. �Interesting. I have never met a Human, but have read much about your kind.� She seemed intrigued by his smirk, running her eyes over it. Her nose twitched and she walked slightly away from him.
His smirk became a frown.
T�Pol said something in Vulcan and it looked like the two looked somewhat amused.
He looked between the two. �How long will you be aboard, Commander?�
�A little more than two days, if that is allowed, Captain.� Her large brown eyes looked as though they were batting at him.
�So, you�re staying here then?� Archer asked, almost disappointedly.
�Again, if that is permitted.�
Archer looked at T�Pol and could see the happiness in her eyes at another Vulcan, and a friend aboard the ship. �You wouldn�t rather take T�Pol aboard your vessel, T�Kar?� he asked.
�I have asked T�Pol if I may study Humans. I am a scientist. And I find your species quite� intriguing.� Again, her eyes were dancing over him, especially his ears.
He nodded. �T�Pol, why don�t you take a couple of days off to be with your cousin. I�ll contact you if we need you.�
T�Pol nodded. �Thank you, sir.�
T�Kar added, �Perhaps we will see you tomorrow at your regular morning meal.�
�Breakfast? Sounds good,� he said. Archer walked away. He sighed. He had a feeling he�d be seeing a lot more of her.
Chapter Three
Archer walked into his dining room and saw Trip, T�Pol and T�Kar speaking at the table. Trip had a full plate of pancakes and was talking with his mouth open.
�Trip,� T�Kar said with difficulty. �I thought this was a word that meant to tangle one�s feet and fall.�
Archer hid a laugh and sat down, as Trip shot him a wince.
�Well, my real name is Charles Tucker. Trip is a nickname,� he explained.
�I understand a nickname embodies an unusual characteristic. You must fall often,� stated T�Kar.
Archer laughed loudly.
Trip guffawed. �Nah, you see, Trip stands for triple � the number three after my name: Charles Tucker III.�
�Ah,� she said. �I was unaware that Earthlings were named after numbers.�
Trip shook his head, �Never mind.� He looked at both women, poking at his food. �So how long you here for again, T�Kar?�
T�Pol answered, �She is here for approximately two days, Commander.�
�Tell me, Trip,� T�Kar asked. �I have noticed there are many differences between you and the Captain, physically.�
Both men looked up and straightened. Trip began to smile. �How so?�
�On Vulcan there are very few variations. The people on my home world have one of three skin colors: dark green, tan or black. And their hair is always brown and their eyes are always brown. There are only minor differences in shade.�
She continued after a pause, �However, I have noticed the Captain has dark hair and greenish eyes. He seems to have more facial hair. You have gold hair and blue eyes, with very little facial hair.� She leaned in closely. �Which of you do Human women find more attractive?�
The two left forced their mouths open, Trip and Archer spoke at the same time.
Trip said, �Me.�
Archer said, �Depends on the woman.�
They looked at each other.
T�Pol spoke to her cousin in Vulcan for a moment. It looked almost like a reprimand.
T�Kar began, �I � apologize � if my questions cause you embarrassment. I do not wish to offend. I am quite fascinated by you.� Her eyes landed on both men.
Archer still giving Trip the evil eye, began speaking. �Humans come in a wide range of shapes, colors and sizes. Our planet has various climates and terrains, and the people reflect them. For example, Trip is of Anglo-Saxon descent, where it was cold and dark much of the year. It is not uncommon for them to have lighter hair and skin. However, for those in hotter climbs, their skin is darker, as is their features.�
T�Kar nodded. �And you, Captain? What is your descent?�
�My family comes from all over. But, I have genetic traits of someone more from Central and Eastern Europe. Although I haven�t traced my roots back, the story is part of my family came from Hungary, just not the male side that carries my family name.�
She nodded. �I see.� She paused. �Forgive my question, but there is also a difference in facial features that is not represented on Vulcan. It would appear, Trip, you can hear better. And, Captain, you have a more enriched sense of smell.�
Trip looked at Archer. �I think she�s sayin� I�ve got big ears and you�ve got a big nose.�
T�Pol again looked at her cousin with disdain. �I apologize, to both of you.�
Archer raised both eyebrows. He grinned. �Big nose, huh? Nope, no better sense of smell. But, if I do say so myself, I think it looks distinguished.�
Trip gave a half-grin, �T�Pol doesn�t really ask us these types of questions.�
�I am intrigued to meet more Humans. You are � wondrous.� She paused, leaning in slightly. �I have also heard that Humans mate frequently. How often?�
They two men both began to choke on their food. Archer squinted his eyes at her and pushed back his plate. �I think that�s enough questions for this morning,� he said.
T�Pol shook her head. Archer had never seen her embarrassed before. She inclined her head, �You have my sincerest apologies. She knows nothing about Earth customs. And, she is quite curious even for a Vulcan.�
T�Kar looked puzzled. �I thought Humans enjoyed talking about their sexual activities.�
T�Pol said something in Vulcan, and they both got up and strolled out.
As the door closed, Trip had a wide grin on his. �Wow,� says Trip.
Archer ran his hand over his neck. �Trip, I think I�m gonna eat in my cabin for the next few days.�
He shrugged. �At least she asks questions. She seems more curious about us than T�Pol. Hell, I think it�s kinda funny � and sexy.�
�I don�t know. I kinda feel like a lab animal.�
Trip grinned. �I wouldn�t mind being her lab animal.� He winked and got up.
Archer shook his head. �Watch it with our visitor, Commander. That�s an order.�
�Cap, you know I wouldn�t do anything.� Trip walked out with a spring in his step.
Chapter Four
Archer was enjoying the bridge. It was quiet and peaceful. He drank his coffee and settled into his command chair. With one hand, he picked up his PADD and began to review it. He crossed his legs and enjoyed the silence.
T�Pol and T�Kar entered the bridge. T�Pol began, �Sir, I hope our presence here is not an intrusion.�
He uncrossed his legs and frowned slightly to himself. �Of course not,� he lied.
T�Kar stared at each of the crew. She strolled over to Ensign Mayweather. �You are quite magnificent. You look like some of the Vulcan men from the south. They are most attractive.�
Archer put down his PADD and walked over to her and Travis. �Ensign, we are the first Humans Commander T�Kar has seen.�
Travis looked up and grinned. �I was actually kinda flattered, sir. I�ve never been called � �magnificent.��
Archer smiled and put his hand on Travis� shoulder. T�Pol walked over. �Ensign, I must apologize on her behalf. She does not understand Earth customs or behavior yet. T�Kar is a scientist and remarks on her findings.� She stared at T�Kar.
T�Kar began. �I continue to ask questions or make comments which cause embarrassment. I do not mean to offend.� She looked somewhat dejected, although it was difficult to tell what Vulcans were feeling because they suppressed their emotions so thoroughly.
Archer wheeled around. �Why don�t you two study Humans in the mess hall?�
T�Kar explained, �Because I wanted to see the bridge.�
Archer closed his eyes for a moment and counted to three. �I mean, you should go to the mess hall to study more Earthlings.�
She nodded. �Thank you for the clarification.�
He sighed and looked at T�Pol. His first officer spoke in Vulcan and T�Kar quietly walked toward the turbo lift.
T�Pol folded her arms across her chest. �I had no idea this would happen, sir. May I see you in your ready room?�
He nodded. �Mayweather, since you�re so magnificent, could you take the bridge?�
Ensign Mayweather laughed. �You bet, sir.�
The two walked into his office. �Captain, I must sincerely apologize for her questions. I understand it is quite � irksome to you.�
Archer let out a breath. �It is irksome. But,� his voice trailed. �But, it�s good to have her ask questions. I think it might further the understanding between our two races. Besides, this is a friend of yours, and is part of your family.�
He chuckled, �I have some extended family members that might put yours to shame.�
After a few seconds, she asked, �Captain, would you prefer I ask you more questions?�
Archer thought about it for a moment. He turned toward her. �I guess I would.� He paused. �But, not after I make command decisions.� He smiled.
�What kind of questions would you like me to ask you?�
He considered the question and put his hand over his face. �I don�t know. Questions about our culture, family, history � you know that kind of stuff. You know just questions about Earth; questions about me.�
She raised an eyebrow. �I believed Humans thought questions were prying. Is this not true?�
He smiled. �Depends on the question. I think people from my planet like to talk about themselves.�
She nodded. �I have noticed, but I did not understand that to mean I should initiate it. Earthlings seem to volunteer the information easily.�
He gave a lop-sided smile. �Between friends, people ask for more information to further intimacy.�
She nodded. �I see, so asking you questions helps me become a better friend?�
He nodded. �Yes.�
She nodded in understanding. �I have lived on Earth for many years. Perhaps I have made too many assumptions.� She continued, �I would also prefer you ask me more questions, as well.�
He walked toward her, staring into her dark eyes. He smiled. �I think that�s a fair request. What do Vulcans like to talk about?�
She gave the question thought. �I believe we also like to talk about ourselves. Particularly, we � appreciate discussions about our achievement and success. We also favor intellectual discussions.�
He nodded. �So, I should ask you questions that help you talk about your goals and the success you�ve already had?�
�That is correct.�
�I�m glad we had this discussion. I think our people are not so dissimilar.�
She arched her eyebrow again. �One more thing, Captain. I wish to take T�Kar to movie night tonight. I think she would � enjoy � the interaction with Humans and studying your entertainment. Would that be acceptable?� she asked.
He nodded. �As long as she doesn�t ask questions during the movie.�
She nodded. �I also hope she does not.�
He grinned. �Mind if I join you two?�
She inclined her head. �It would be a privilege.�
She walked out. Archer shook his head. He felt in the past thirty minutes he was beginning to understand Vulcans better and better.
A funny thought came to the surface � he knew he didn�t care to be with T�Kar, he just wanted to watch the movie with T�Pol. He let out a sigh. The feelings for his first officer were getting ridiculous. When she entered the bridge, he felt a smile drift across his lips before he could think about it. He enjoyed smelling her hair when he walked over to her station. She rarely touched his arm, but when she did, he felt the room light up.
He shook his head � this was unhealthy. He couldn�t act on these feelings. He knew she was a Vulcan and most likely didn�t return them. And even if she did, which he corrected himself he doubted, she was off limits. She was his first officer, aboard a ship he commanded. �More running,� he thought to himself as if that was the cure.
Chapter Five
As Archer, T�Pol and T�Kar walked into the mess hall. Archer offered a chair to them and walked off to get some popcorn. When he came back, he saw the two seats open on either side of the women. He walked past T�Kar and sat by T�Pol.
Trip stood up in front of the screen, as he typically did on movie night, and began to introduce the movie.
�The movie we are about to see was a special request by our Ensign Hoshi Sato.� A few people clapped, as he pointed to her, making her blush. �She insisted we show more movies with romance ....�
Hoshi heckled, �I just got tired of all the cowboy and horror flicks.�
�And so without further ado, here�s Sophie�s Choice.� He began to walk away. He sat by Hoshi and ate some of her popcorn, as she tried to slap away his hand.
Captain Archer looked around the room and noticed that most of the people who attended tonight�s film were women. In fact, he, Trip, Lt. Reed and Dr. Phlox were the only men there. The entire room was filled with women. He laughed softly to himself.
�Captain, do women often attend movies more regularly than men?� T�Kar asked.
Archer whispered, �No. I think in general, women might be more interested in movies with romance.�
Dr. Phlox, sitting directly behind them, seemed to perk up. �I believe Human males call this a � chick flick. At least, that�s what Commander Tucker called it.�
�Explain more about this custom to bring young hens and roosters,� she requested.
Dr. Phlox laughed and smiled creepily. �Chicks is slang for women.�
T�Pol shook her head, as T�Kar wanted to investigate further. T�Pol said very quietly, �Do not continue. It is considered rude to speak during a film.�
Everyone seemed to get settled. As the movie progressed, Archer felt like a 14-year old boy, watching a sexy movie with his parents. He became painfully aware that the two alien women next to him were watching at this movie in wonder. T�Kar would occasionally whisper something to T�Pol with hurried excitement. Meanwhile, T�Pol stared with wide eyes, and a slightly confused expression. She would occasionally look at Archer and then back at the screen. Archer tried desperately not to meet her gaze, but could feel her watching him from time-to-time.
Worse still, he realized he and Phlox were the only males in the entire room. Trip had left only thirty minutes into the movie, and Lt. Reed wasn�t far behind. Dr. Phlox continued to make quiet comments as the movie went on.
He shook his head. He didn�t want to be rude and leave early, and the two women seemed interested in what was happening. He kept hoping he would receive a hail, or be called for something � anything. Unfortunately, he wasn�t spared. After the excruciatingly long movie was over, Archer took a deep breath.
�Fascinating,� said T�Kar as the lights went on.
�Indeed,� said T�Pol.
Archer smiled weakly. �Well, ladies, ready to go?�
Dr. Phlox leaned over. �What a beautiful story of love. It�s interesting how the two men treated her. She did not choose the stable mate for most of the movie.� His head jerked. �Humans.�
�You seem to be nervous, Captain,� said T�Kar, watching Archer shift uncomfortably in his seat.
Dr. Phlox continued, �Many males do not enjoy watching romantic movies, especially with friends. They prefer to watch with girlfriends, at least that�s my observation.� He smiled. �He could be feeling embarrassment.�
Archer snapped, �I think I can speak for myself, Doctor.�
Dr. Phlox shrugged. �Well, I have a busy morning tomorrow. Good evening ladies � Captain.�
T�Pol leaned toward the Archer. �I thought the film was quite � moving.�
He nodded. �Well, I should be heading off to my quarters, too. Want me to drop you two off?�
T�Pol inclined her head, �That would be most welcome.�
Chapter Six
Archer dropped them off at T�Pol�s quarters. Although he liked that T�Kar asked questions, he didn�t think he could take anymore of her for one night. Besides, he was looking forward to seeing the basketball program that Trip lent him.
As he strolled away, T�Pol and T�Kar entered the sub-commander�s quarters. The two sat down on T�Pol�s bed and began speaking in Vulcan.
�The captain is very handsome, as are many of the other men aboard,� T�Kar said.
T�Pol cocked her head to one side. �Yes. They have features that are � pleasing.�
T�Kar�s eyes widened, �But that smell.�
T�Pol nodded. �It no longer � affects me, but at first it was quite pungent. I believe it is their diet. Most of the crew eats meat.�
T�Kar nodded. �I have noticed. Do you find it difficult to work with them?�
T�Pol sighed briefly. �I have found it to be less and less so. In fact, I have grown quite accustomed to them.�
T�Kar raised an eyebrow. �I hope you will forgive me � I say this as a family member and would not speak of it otherwise.�
T�Pol nodded. �Continue.�
�I find Captain Archer � very pleasing, but have noticed he is somewhat prejudiced of Vulcans, except you� said T�Kar.
T�Pol shot both eyebrows up. �He has a long and troubled history with many Vulcans who were on Earth and has trouble forgiving them.� She paused. �Although it is quite illogical, I believe he blames them for his father�s death, or at least blames them for his father never seeing his life�s work come to pass.�
�Archer�s father has already perished?� asked T�Kar.
�Humans live only half as long as we.�
T�Kar continued, �Again, I speak of this as a family member. I have noticed Archer has a certain � admiration � for you. More than for example Trip.� She paused. �That admiration seems more like what we witnessed in the film tonight, between the characters. I think they call this love?�
T�Pol sighed. �You ask too many questions.� She felt a sense of excitement. She had noticed their friendship had evolved, but had not suspected that he had developed stronger feelings for her. During the movie, she wondered what it would be like to kiss him. A tingle ran down her spine.
T�Kar nodded, �I do. But, I also know the way you look at him. Tell me, T�Pol, do you think anything would come to pass between the two of you?�
She stiffened at the question. She fought to suppress the feeling she wanted something to happen between the two of them. She thought about his hazel eyes and his soft lips.
�No,� lied T�Pol.
T�Kar continued, �Are you certain?�
T�Pol nodded. �Quite. We are friends and friends only. It would be illogical for us to be anything more. It is against his laws, and would hurt our working relationship.�
�Then, I ask a � favor of you. May I � examine � him more closely?�
T�Pol furrowed her brow. �What is your meaning?�
�I am intrigued by him and was hoping to spend more time with him alone.�
T�Pol spoke quickly. �I do not think he would wish it.�
�Does that mean you do feel emotion for him?� asked T�Kar.
�No, I am merely stating a fact. I doubt he would wish to be in only your company.�
T�Kar inclined her head. �We shall see.� She stood up and began to exit. �You do not need to show me back to my abode, I remember the location. I will see you tomorrow, T�Pol.�
As the door slid shut, T�Pol became angry and decided to meditate and think about what she thought, said and heard. She felt competitive toward T�Kar, and suspected that the same feelings would be returned. T�Kar wanted Captain Archer to be the competition.
T�Pol�s shoulders slumped. She remembered when she was assigned to Earth, T�Kar was unsettled, challenging the decision. T�Kar had also applied for the same assignment, but did not receive it. Instead, T�Kar continued her scientific work and received a faster promotion. T�Pol did not care for promotions, she was content. T�Kar may still be jealous.
Her mouth felt heavy. If Captain Archer entered a relationship with T�Kar, there would be no consequences. There were no rules about fraternizing with visitors or guests, as long as the guest was willing. And T�Kar was definitely willing.
T�Pol could not concentrate. She abandoned her meditation and decided to get some exercise. She thought to herself, �I will go for a run.�
Chapter Seven
Archer was on his bed, watching his computer screen: the Kings were playing the Spurs. His hair was tousled and he was in casual wear � black pants and a white shirt. He began yelling at the screen, �Oh, come on, ref, that was a foul!� He threw his arms up into the air.
His door chimed. Jon remembered that Trip had talked earlier about coming over with a bottle of scotch and watching the game. Archer thought to himself, �That�s probably Trip.�
He walked over and answered the door to see T�Kar. He sighed.
�Good evening, Captain. Have I interrupted you?� she asked.
Archer instinctively looked around for T�Pol. �Hi. Where�s T�Pol?�
�Most likely in her quarters.�
�Oh. Well, what can I do for you?� asked Archer.
T�Kar studied Archer�s body for a few moments. �I wished to talk with you about the movie we saw tonight.�
He took a deep breath and frowned. �It�s kind of late. Want to talk about it tomorrow at breakfast? You and T�Pol will be there, right?�
T�Kar nodded curtly. She looked over in the corner and saw a small being on four legs. �Is that a � rodent?�
He laughed. �No, it�s Porthos. He�s my dog.�
�He is yours?�
He nodded. �Yes. Humans take some Earth animals as pets.� She looked confused. �Pets are animals Humans take care of. They have no ability to speak and limited thoughts and feelings.�
�Fascinating.� She paused. �May I touch your � pet?�
He nodded. �Only if you call him Porthos.�
She bent down and held her hand out. Porthos looked up at Archer. Archer grinned. �It�s okay, boy.� He picked him up and held him.
T�Kar stood to meet the dog. She put out a tenuous hand out, finally touching it. A smile almost swept across her lips. �He feels very soft.� Porthos wagged his tail. She held her nose away, �But he smells, especially his breath �.�
Archer laughed. She looked at him, studying his creases. �You have a wonderful laugh, Captain.�
His eyes twinkled. �You can call me Jon if you�d like.� He bent over and let his dog down on the bed.
She nodded. �Yes, I would like that, Jon.� She looked over his features.
�You seem very unusual for a Vulcan.� He got the distinct impression that she was interested in him.
�I am a scientist. If I may say something about my race, I find it illogical and � emotional that Vulcans think they are superior. Our two races are simply different, Jon.� She paused. �Humans call this pride?�
Archer smirked. �Yes,� he responded.
He had an overwhelming desire to kiss her, which made him feel awful. He knew why, he wouldn�t be kissing her, he�d be kissing her thinking of T�Pol.
T�Kar took a step closer to him and touched his chest. �Humans only have one heart?�
Archer�s one heart was pounding. �Yes. Vulcans have more?�
T�Kar nodded. �We have two.� She turned her head up to him. She picked up his hand and placed it over her stomach. He felt two significant heartbeats thumping at a rapid pace.
�I was intrigued by the movie and wished to discuss it with you,� she said.
�Uhm, okay,� he responded.
�What does a kiss feel like?� she asked. �It must be quite pleasurable, as it causes a more � intimate response.�
He gave her a side-ways glance. �You mean Vulcans don�t kiss?�
�We kiss like this,� she said as her two fingers reached for his.
Although it seemed innocent enough, Archer felt the hair on the back of his neck standup. He shivered. He thought he could hear what she was thinking. And if he could, he knew he�d better stop right now.
�Is this pleasing to you?� she asked. She could sense Archer wanted to pull away.
Archer�s knees felt weak and he couldn�t speak.
She retrieved her hand and Archer swayed. She asked, �Will you show me how you kiss?�
He leaned toward her and caught himself. �I�m pretty tired,� he whispered. He managed to step back.
T�Kar nodded. �I am here one more night. Perhaps we can continue this discussion tomorrow?�
Archer petted his dog and nodded. �Perhaps.�
As she left, he cursed himself for letting her touch him. He cursed himself for not kissing her. He scratched his head. He knew he couldn�t finish watching the game. He sighed. He thought maybe he would go for a run in a little while.
Chapter Nine
T�Pol walked in and saw something odd, both Trip and Archer were joking with T�Kar.
�Trip, I noticed you did not stay to see the ending to the �chick flick,�� said T�Kar.
Trip laughed heartily. �It was gettin� pretty mushy.�
T�Kar, �You have a most colorful set of expressions, Trip. Jon, you do not have this same � flourish.�
Archer smiled. Trip continued, �I�m from the South. We tend to spice up our language a bit.�
Archer smirked at his friend. �I�m from California. Our speech, I suppose, is less � interesting.�
T�Pol stood there watching the banter between T�Kar and the two men. She felt somehow disappointed. She�d worked with them for almost three years and didn�t have the same rapport. She walked in and seemed somber.
Trip looked up, �Mornin�, T�Pol.�
Archer smiled. �Good morning, T�Pol.�
She nodded. �Good morning.�
Trip began, �T�Kar was tellin� us that you used to have something like a pet rat.�
T�Pol furrowed her eyebrows. �It is called a svorak. It is something more like a hamster.�
Archer chuckled. �That�s very sweet.�
�Its bite was poisonous,� she indicated. She sat down and began to drink her tea.
Archer grinned and continued with his breakfast.
�T�Pol was young, but she cared for the foul creature. When it died, she came to my mother�s house with it hidden in her robes.� She paused. �After my mother caught the smell and made T�Pol show her what it was, there was a significant disturbance in the house.�
T�Pol spoke in Vulan to her. T�Kar waved her off. �I think the humans find this charming. Do you not, Jon?�
Jon looked at T�Pol and could tell she seemed upset. �You shouldn�t be embarrassed,� he said to T�Pol.
T�Pol corrected Archer. �Embarrassment is an emotion. T�Kar is speaking of family incidents, which is inappropriate.�
T�Kar looked at her cousin and continued. �I apologize, T�Pol.�
Trip spoke up. �Hell, my cousins would tell stuff to my girlfriends to scare them away. And, I�m talking about the really embarrassin� stuff.�
Archer finished eating. He could feel the tension between the two women had increased, almost like they were competing for something. He thought of giving T�Pol an option to get away from her cousin for a while.
Jon began, �T�Pol, I hate to ask this, but do you think you could review just one report today with me? Meet in my ready room in an hour?�
She nodded. �Of course.�
T�Kar looked at Archer. �Jon, I think we said we would discuss the movie today. When would you like to take up that discussion?�
A flash of something near panic swept across his face. And just as quickly he tried to squash it. He shrugged. �Later?�
�Perhaps at dinner in my quarters?� she asked. Trip looked up from his orange juice with a large grin on his face. He immediately looked over at his friend. T�Pol as well stared, mouth agape.
Archer scratched his neck and looked at T�Pol. If he didn�t know better he thought she was frowning. He sighed. �We�ll see. Can I get back to you?�
T�Kar nodded. �Certainly.�
Archer left the room, as Trip stood up and decided to tag along with his friend. As soon as they left the mess hall, Trip began to talk. �Cap, I can�t believe this!�
Archer sighed. �I don�t want to talk about this.�
Trip stopped his friend. �Oh, no. This is too good not to talk about. T�Pol�s cousin�s got the hots for you.�
Archer winced. �She�s interested in studying me, Trip. That�s it.� He began walking to the lift again.
Trip continued, �Hell, yea she wants to study you. She wants to study you in private.� He began to laugh. �I think you should let her study you.�
�I don�t think so. It�s complicated.�
�She�s good lookin� and has a good sense of humor. She�s got a body that just won�t quit. Doesn�t sound complicated to me.�
Archer shook his head and began walking toward the turbo lift. Trip leaned up against the wall as Archer got in. �Oh yea, I think you oughta let her examine you thoroughly.�
The turbo lift door shut; Archer was glad for the solitude of the elevator.
Chapter Ten
Archer was in his ready room finding it hard to work. He felt he was in one of the weirdest situations he�d ever been in. His first officer�s cousin, his friend�s cousin was interested in him. She was making passes at him. He was attracted to her. Under normal circumstances, everything would�ve been okay.
But, she was a Vulcan who was interested in him because of the novelty, not because she wanted a relationship. He got the impression she wanted to poke and prod him, ask questions. She wasn�t really interested in him. She was interested in a Human � anyone would really do. He wasn�t sure what was special about him. He just happened to be around.
He thought about it. Why hadn�t she come on to any other crewmen? She obviously took a liking to Trip and Mayweather. That would make more sense. It would be easier. Heck, they�d make a better couple. Trip seemed a little more adventurous in his morays with love. Archer shook his head, cringing at the thought.
He knew why he thought it was wrong. He wasn�t interested in T�Pol�s cousin; he was interested in T�Pol. He felt completely overwhelmed. He took a deep breath. He and T�Pol could never happen. She was his first officer and his friend. It was against regulations and would ruin their friendship. It was against regulations.
He shook his head again. The chime rang and he nearly jumped out of his seat. He�d forgotten about asking T�Pol to meet him. He felt a little sweaty and took a deep breath.
�Come.�
T�Pol looked at him. �You wished to provide a report for me to review?�
He offered her a seat. �Why don�t you sit down?� She nodded and proceeded to sit down. �Actually, this isn�t about a report. I wanted to talk with you � as a friend.�
She nodded. �Yes?�
�This is very awkward. And, I don�t really know how to put this.� She was silent. �I think � I � errrr � How would you feel if �? No. I think your cousin is � interested in me.�
T�Pol cocked her eyebrow. �Undoubtedly.�
He squinted at her and drew his lips together. He was hoping she�d tell him differently.
He sighed. �I wanted to see how you felt about this.� Before she could answer he spoke again. �And don�t tell me you don�t have emotions. Just � just please answer honestly.�
She furrowed her eyebrows. �I must admit the situation is most perplexing.�
He turned around. �Explain.�
She hesitated. �I think she is interested in you from a scientific standpoint. She is obviously beguiled by your species and wants some � first-hand knowledge.�
Archer asked �Why not Trip?�
�Forgive me, but Commander Tucker is � less of a challenge.�
He smiled. It was true. She already had him falling all over himself. �But, there are others. Travis?�
T�Pol hesitated. �You have chosen to speak with me as a friend. May I speak to you as one?�
He nodded. �I was hoping you would.�
She sighed. �This too is difficult to explain.� She paused. �T�Kar believes there is some mutual attraction between us. In her mind, I believe she is trying to compete for your � affection.�
Archer looked down. �That�s absurd.�
�I indicated that to her already.� There was a nervous timbre in her voice, the slightest of tremors.
He looked up. For a moment they were both quiet. Archer could hear the slight hum of the floorboards. The two stared into each other�s eyes, waiting for the other to say something. Archer realized had been staring almost a minute and suddenly looked away. He felt that pang in his heart as he swallowed.
Hoarsely he began, �What should we do?�
�About T�Kar, or �?� her voice trailed off.
Archer�s stomach did flip-flops. He had only asked one question, but there was a silent one between them that she obviously was alluding to. He got up and walked toward her. His heart was pounding. He sat on his desk, leaning toward her. He desperately wanted to stroke her cheek. He wanted to kiss her.
She looked up at him. She wanted to touch him, to hear his thoughts. He was so quiet. She had taken a risk to leave the question open, she wondered what he would say.
Both waited for the other to say something. He spoke very softly, �I don�t want T�Kar.�
�I do not want you to be with her.�
He had been drawing slightly closer to her, as if he was afraid of scaring her away. He felt his body moving in slow motion.
�Why?� he whispered. He thought, �Why did I ask her; it�s obvious.� He wanted to hear it from her. He wanted to be certain. He didn�t want to appear foolish or inappropriate. His heart was pounding harder. He was leaning closer.
�I believe T�Kar is correct. She is correct about my inclination toward you.�
He took her hand, as they looked into each other�s eyes. He leaned into her, closing in for a kiss.
The door chime went off. Archer�s shoulder�s sagged. He brushed his fingers through his hair. The color had drawn from T�Pol�s face. He looked at her and as she slipped her hand out of his.
He stood up and walked behind his desk. �Come.�
Trip walked in and looked at both of them. They seemed a little sad. He shrugged. He thought playfully to himself that they were talking about T�Kar. He grinned.
�Hey, Cap. I wanted to drop the Engineering reports by. T�Kar came down, cracked up the entire staff.� He shook his head. �Beggin� your pardon, but it�s hard to see how you two are cousins. She seems pretty funny for a Vulcan.�
T�Pol arched her eyebrow.
�She was telling everyone, she had braided your hair when you were a child and got a brush caught. Finally, your dad cut your hair against your mom�s wishes. She said you were almost bald for a three weeks.�
T�Pol stood up. �Excuse me.� She walked out. Archer�s heart sank as she walked out.
�What�s up with her?� asked Trip.
Archer turned on him. �Listen, I think these things embarrass T�Pol. And like your cousins, I think T�Kar might be doing this on purpose.�
�But, Vulcans don�t have feelings.�
�Yes, they do; they suppress them. They just want us to think they have emotions.�
�When did you become such an expert on Vulcans, Cap?�
�Good question,� responded Archer.
�Listen, I wanted to ask you about T�Kar. Are you interested in her?� asked Trip.
Archer narrowed his eyes. �No.�
�Uhm, remember that order you gave me, sir?� asked Trip.
�Trip, answer me honestly. Do you like T�Kar?�
Commander Tucker folded his arms across his chest. �Who wouldn�t?�
He smiled. �Can I relieve you of your shift and have you take her to lunch? In fact, I�m giving you permission for the entire day off. And you can belay my last order about not fraternizing with her.�
�What�s the catch?� asked Trip.
Archer shook his head. �Play a little hard to get, will ya?�
Trip furrowed his eyebrows. �Whaddaya mean?�
�Just don�t give in so easily. That�s all I�m saying.�
Trip winked. �That�ll be kinda tough for me.�
Archer rolled his eyes. �See you at dinner?�
�You bet.� He turned around. �Thanks.�
Trip walked out. Archer sat down. He thought to himself, �Yes, this had been one of the weirder days he�d had. His mind flashed � T�Pol. He looked at the stack of reports and thought about her. He walked out of his ready room and into the turbo lift.
He was thinking about T�Pol. He wanted to continue their conversation. He wanted to kiss her. As he walked out, he looked up and saw T�Kar.
She inclined her head. �Hello, Jon.�
He got off the turbo lift and took a step back. �Hi.�
�Were you coming to talk with me, as we had discussed?�
He shifted his weight. �No.� He looked up again. �No, I�m still on duty. But, I did think Trip wanted to talk with you about something.�
�Trip is quite � delightful,� she said. She touched Archer�s chest. �I will see you later to finish our � discussion?�
Archer nodded.
�Excellent,� she said and proceeded to stroll off.
As soon as she was far enough down the corridor where her Vulcan hearing couldn�t detect anything, Archer used the com. �Archer to Commander Tucker.�
�Trip here.�
�Trip, you�re confined to your quarters until 1600.�
�Aye, aye sir.�
Archer walked down the corridor to T�Pol�s room. He rang the chime. She answered the door. She wasn�t in her uniform; she was in a loose fitting black garment, almost like a robe.
They looked at each other for a second. �May I speak with you?�
She nodded and he entered her quarters. They both sat down in chairs opposite each other. He took a deep breath and decided to go first.
�I � I have feelings for you, T�Pol.� He leaned over and took both of her hands in his. �But, I don�t think either of us can act on these.�
�No, I agree with you. We cannot act on these feelings. It is illogical.�
�Right. Then it sounds like we�re agreed,� he said, as he brought his hand to her face.
She nuzzled his hand with her cheek. �I believe we are.�
He felt her emotions washing over him. �Yes,� he said back. She kissed the palm of his hand. His hand slipped behind her head as he passionately brought her lips to his mouth. Her hands reached behind his head and pulled him to her.
She mouth traced a line down his neck. He closed his eyes; his mind reeled. He whispered, �Oh God, we can�t.�
�We must not,� she said back. His hands were rubbing her back, darting over the silky material of her robe. He nibbled on her earlobe. She was panting slightly in his ear. He gently pushed her onto the bed, following closely behind her.
He looked down at her. He was breathing deeply and quickly.
Her heart was racing. She had a slightly frightened look in her eye.
His breathing quickened. She could tell there was as much inner turmoil within him as there was with her. They looked into each other�s eyes, waiting for someone to make a move. He was fighting for control. Her eyes were reflecting the want he felt. His body was quivering.
She was struggling for emotional control. The emotions he projected onto her were wild and passionate; they felt as if they were taking over. She felt herself sweat, which was rare for a Vulcan. Her face was green. She bit her lower lip.
He looked into her eyes and saw in her pupils, his reflection, leaning over her. He saw an image of a man with tousled hair taking advantage of his first officer. He hung his head as he let out a sigh. His breathing was coming under control. He was thinking about his ethics � his principles. He was perfectly still.
T�Pol also was regaining her breathing. She reached up and touched his face. �Thank you for your self control, Jon.� She paused. �I have never felt those particular emotions and was not able to � suppress them so quickly.� She paused. �We nearly made a serious mistake.�
He sat down on her bed and put his hands through his hair. �Did we?�
�Jon,� she said. She pulled his chin to look into her face. �Perhaps not. But, we have obligations and duty that come before personal � feelings.�
He took her hand from his chin and held it, looking up. �The way I feel for you isn�t going to change, even if I can outwardly control my feelings.� He paused. �I�ve felt this way for a while.�
She nodded. �As have I.�
He sighed. �I don�t know if I can suppress them forever.� He smiled weakly. �I�m not a Vulcan.�
She looked at him. �Perhaps you can join me in the evenings for meditation to help you focus.�
He nodded. �Perhaps.� He looked at her and felt overwhelming desire. Rather than submit, he got up and left her quarters.
Chapter Ten
Archer and T�Pol were already seated eating dinner, in quiet, when Trip and T�Kar walked in. Trip was grinning from proverbial ear to ear. T�Kar was slightly behind him.
�Cap,� he said.
Archer looked up. He smiled. �I haven�t seen either of you all day,� said Archer.
Trip looked at T�Kar and smiled. �Well, we�ve been a little busy.�
Archer just nodded his head. �I see.�
T�Kar looked at Archer. �Yes, Trip and I discussed the movie last night.�
Archer nodded. �I figured as much.� He wickedly pursued the conversation. �What was the final verdict on it?�
T�Pol looked up. There was a glimmer in her eyes.
T�Kar paused. �Enjoyable. I learned much.�
Trip smiled. �Yup, I think I kinda like that movie.�
T�Pol stepped in. �But, Commander Tucker, you only saw the first thirty minutes.�
He raised his eyebrows. �I got filled in on a few details.�
�I�m sure,� said Archer. He could tell T�Kar was shifting in her seat uncomfortably. And there was something making him happy about embarrassing her, as she�d done to T�Pol for the past two days.
He let her squirm and waited for about a minute. �So, you enjoy your trip?� he asked. His smile was mischievous and somewhat malicious.
She nodded. �It was nice to see T�Pol again.�
After the meal, the two cousins began to talk again as they had when they first arrived. Archer smiled and excused himself early. As he got to the door, he thought it best to also excuse Trip, who tagged along beside him.
Trip assumed Archer wanted to hear the details when the left the dining room. Trip grinned and said, �You don�t know what you�re missing.�
Archer thought about it for a second. �I think I do.�
As the two continued down the corridor, Trip talked more about the experience.
Chapter Eleven
Archer was in the gym running on the treadmill. The room was completely empty. He felt a little sad; he had lots of quiet time recently. He hadn�t talked with T�Pol in a few days, other than giving her orders and viewing her scientific reports. He felt things were still unresolved, but thought they would be as resolved as they could be for the moment. He was having trouble being on the bridge with her without thinking about their brief embrace.
He looked up and saw T�Pol walk across the room toward him.
He smiled and turned off his machine. He grabbed his towel and rubbed it over his face and head. �You�ve here late,� he said.
�Yes, I discovered I could not sleep.�
He nodded. �Same here.�
�I guess you saw T�Kar off a couple of days ago?�
She nodded. �I did. I believe she enjoyed herself.�
He looked up and grinned. �I bet she did.�
She lightly touched his arm, which was slightly damp from sweat. He looked down at his arm and then at her. She could sense the pain, even without touching him. It was in his eyes.
�I�m kinda tired. I probably need to go home, take a shower and then get to bed.�
She nodded. Her hand remained on his arm. She began to speak softly. �I am glad there is more understanding between us, Jon. I have wanted to say more in the past few days, but have had difficulty finding the words.�
�Me, too.� His hand reached and touched hers. He shivered. Her skin was hotter than his. Touching her made him realize how much he wanted her. He could hear thoughts echoed back of how too he was desired.
She turned to him. �Perhaps it is illogical to continue to fight these � feelings.�
He stared at her. �Perhaps.�
T�Pol took her first two fingers and held them out. She took Archer�s two fingers and touched them to each other. Unlike the pure excitement he�d felt before, this time he felt an outpouring of warmth. Archer felt like electricity was shooting through his eyes and dancing down his body into his toes. He gasped.
�This is the Vulcan equivalent of a � kiss.� She caressed those two fingers with hers. Her stroke was gentle, stemming from the base and moving upward slowly.
He couldn�t speak; he was stunned. He was staring at her. He barely got out, �I have touched fingers before.� His knees were shaking.
T�Pol�s head inclined. �T�Kar?�
He nodded. He felt he was melting into the floor.
�Jon, do you realize this is an intimate embrace for Vulcans?�
He shook his head. He spoke hoarsely, �T�Kar called it a kiss.�
T�Pol arched her eyebrow. �I did not realize T�Kar touched you this way.�
Archer swayed slightly as T�Pol broke contact. He looked into her eyes. �This.� He held his fingers up again. She met them. �This is intimate.�
He was breathing deeply when contact was broken again. He looked at her hungrily. �My quarters in thirty minutes?�
T�Pol nodded slowly.
Chapter Twelve
Archer took a shower hurriedly. He had to shake his head. It�d been a long time. He hadn�t felt this nervous and excited about being with a woman in a very long time. The excitement was driving him crazy. Just thinking about her was getting him worked up. After almost every thought about how intoxicating this would be, he rebuked himself for feeling this way. He felt nervous, as if his stomach was turning inside out. He turned the shower off, draped a towel around his waist and brushed his teeth.
�Maybe she wouldn�t show up,� he thought. There was something deep inside of him that knew she would. When they touched sparks flew. It was just that simple. There�d been tiny sparks all along, even in the beginning. But, he�d been feeling fireworks for the past year. Kissing her, both in a Vulcan and Human way, was the most wonderful thing he�d experienced. He thought it might be an exaggeration. He checked himself. �Nope, flying this starship was the most exciting.�
His heart sunk. He couldn�t back down now. He didn�t want to. He didn�t want to be thrown out of Star Fleet. Maybe he wouldn�t answer the door. Maybe when he saw her, he�d tell her he couldn�t.
He looked at his reflection and sighed. He wanted this woman very badly. His soul felt incomplete without having her. He had an enormous amount of lust, which was poured onto his feelings of friendship, trust and admiration. �This feeling would continue to build; and this would happen anyway,� he argued. They were only postponing the inevitable. He was finding it difficult to conduct work on the bridge as it was. Maybe this was for the best.
He threw on some black pants and a white shirt, before the door chimed. His heart pounded in his chest.
He took a deep breath and opened the door. T�Pol was wearing dark green silk pants and a matching silk shirt. She strolled in. He could tell she was thinking the same things. She wanted to back out, but wanted to be with him. Her brow was furrowed, and still she looked gorgeous.
He walked over to her and whispered, �You look beautiful.�
She could see he was still fighting with his own emotions, trying to decide the right thing to do. She could also sense he felt awkward and unsure.
He looked at her without touching her. �Are you sure you want to do this?�
As if to answer his question, she put her hand on his face. She gently spoke, �Jon.�
He grabbed the back of her head and enveloped her mouth with his. Her hands were entwined in his damp hair. Quiet gasps of pleasure exuded from their mouths � his sounded like he was humming and hers were barely audible aloud. Her thoughts were clear � �yes.�
His mouth explored her neck, ears, chin, shoulders and collarbone. She stretched her neck, enjoying the sensation of his cool lips on her skin. She tugged at his shirt to remove it, letting her hands follow the front of his chest.
His hands felt the curves of her body. He was breathing harder, his embrace became more passionate. He walked her backward toward the bed.
She kissed his neck, softly biting it. Her hands ran down his chest and to his navel where she began to undo his button. He gently pushed her on the bed. His tongue ran over her silk top at her breast.
�Commander Tucker to Captain Archer.�
Archer realized he was panting with desire. He swallowed and took a deep breath.
�Commander Tucker to Captain Archer.�
He leaned over to the com. �Yes?� he hoarsely asked. He felt guilty; he hardly ever, even when in a dead sleep, let someone call him twice. He was trying to control his breathing.
As if T�Pol knew he was having second thoughts, she began brushing her lips against his neck.
�Sorry, sir didn�t mean to wake ya.�
�Go ahead, Commander,� said Archer. His voice was still husky. He picked up her hand and nuzzled it, pursing his lips to her palm.
�You asked me to let ya know when we spotted a planet suitable for a little R and R. Think we found it, sir.�
�Yes,� said Archer as T�Pol caressed his stomach and moved her hands down past his navel.
�Well, we�ll be there within eight standard hours.�
�Commander Tucker, I would like you to arrange the details of the away party. I�ll talk with you about this more at 0800 in my ready room. Don�t wait up for me at breakfast. I�m going to sleep in.� He shut the com off and turned to T�Pol, positioning her on the bed. He nibbled at the point of her ear and said, �Now, where were we?�