| Standard disclaimer: Paramount owns the whole Star Trek universe. I'm just borrowing the characters and am in no way making money off of this. This is just for fun. So please don't sue me. Opportunity by Missbevcrusher Just to let you know that this story was written a few years ago, well before the movie Nemesis came out. So the concept doesn't fit anymore. Just consider it and alternate reality storyline. * * * * * Captain Picard sat at his ready room desk with a cup of earl grey in his hand. He had just started going over some reports when the chime sounded. "Come." He said, never letting his eyes off his computer screen. The doors parted to reveal a very enthusiastic looking Beverly Crusher. She quickly walked to over and dropped the padd she had been holding on the captain's desk. "What's this?" Jean-Luc said as he picked it up. "Read it and see for yourself." she remained standing, her arms crossed. Her expression was one of extreme satisfaction and pride. Jean-Luc reclined in his chair a bit as he went over the text on the padd. The more he read, the more he seemed impressed. Beverly waited for him to say something, but he just remained silent, "So? What do you think?" Jean-Luc lifted his gaze from the padd and looked at her for the first time since she came in. The excitement he saw in her eyes only intensified the pride he felt toward her. He got up from his chair and went over to extend his hand, "Congratulations Beverly, or should I say captain Crusher." "I still can't believe this is all happening. I'd heard that Starfleet was going to launch medical ships, but I didn't see this coming." Beverly shook her head and exhaled, "It sounds so weird doesn't it? Captain Crusher." "When did you get the news?" "Just now. I hurried here as soon as it dawned on me that I wasn't imagining things." "I must say I'm not suprised. You have come to be one of the finest officer I know Beverly." Jean-Luc paused and took a deep breath, "So when will you be leaving?" Beverly turned away from him, "That's just it... I don't know if I'm going yet." "Are you thinking of turning it down?" Jean-Luc asked a bit concerned. Of course the thought of her leaving made him extremely sad, however his strong sense of duty told him that this was right for her career. Beverly didn't immediately answer him. Instead, she went to the sofa and sat down, "I don't know Jean-Luc. Yes, this is a wonderful opportunity. Perhaps once in a lifetime for me. It's just that I've been here so long..." She stopped, unable to find the words to describe how she felt. Jean-Luc first didn't know what to say to her. It was always hard to leave a place you've come to know as home. He slowly walked to the sofa and sat down next to her, "No one can make that choice but you Beverly. All I can say is in the end, make the choice that makes you happiest. The worst thing is looking back years from now with regret." He looked at her meaningfully. A part of him was terrified at the prospect of not having her around anymore. She was perhaps his only close friend onboard. The only one he really let into his private life. Beverly felt the same sadness her friend did. To her, her colleagues here were her family and this ship was her home. When she had first joined Starfleet, the only thing that had mattered to her was being the best doctor she could be. Though that never changed, new ambitions formed within her. Ever since she had first taken command of the Enterprise-D during a crisis with the borg years ago, the pull of the big chair became stronger and stronger. As she looked in the hazel eyes of her best friend, she tried to imagine what it would be like being away from him after so many years of serving together. She felt so torn, "I better sleep on it tonight." Jean-Luc nodded, never leaving her gaze. * * * * * Sleep had eluded Jean-Luc most of the night. Beverly had filled his every thought, even in the short time he had slept. As he stared at his reflection in the bathroom mirror, the captain realized how truly lonely he was. For some reason, he had thought they would always serve together. He knew very well it was ridiculous. After all, crew members were routinely transfered or promoted. It was a reality of Starfleet life. Staying put for too long could easily hurt a career. He splashed water on his face, patted it dry with a towel and left the bathroom. When he emerged from his bedroom, he headed for the replicator and ordered coffee and croissants. They were having breakfast together like always and this was about the time she usually showed up. He hadn't even finished setting the table when the chime sounded. How well he knew her, "Come." The doors parted and in walked Beverly. She was dressed in her blue uniform and her red hair cascaded down her shoulders. It was nice how she had recently started to let it grow out a bit longer. "Have a good night's sleep?" He asked teasing, fully knowing she hadn't. He remembered the way he had felt when he had been offered his first command. He hadn't slept a wink that night. Would he be a good captain? What adventures lay ahead? It seemed a million questions streamed through his mind at the same instant. It was all so overwhelming somehow. Beverly gave him a look that said it all. His hunch was dead on, "Is it that apparent?" Jean-Luc smiled at her as he finished setting the table. Instead of answering the question, he pulled the chair out for her. "My aren't we the perfect gentlemen this morning." She said smiling. The captain feigned being shocked, "What do you mean this morning? Aren't I always?" Beverly laughed softly at his comment. She had to admit to herself that Jean-Luc was always a perfect gentlemen. It was a trait in him that she had always admired. Jean-Luc sat down also and poured their coffee, "So, have you decided on anything yet?" "I think I have, yes." Seeing she wasn't saying more, he asked, "And?" Beverly smiled and nodded, "I think I'll go for it." Jean-Luc reclined in his chair, absorbing the reality of what she had just said. However sad he may have felt by her leaving, he was determined not to show it. It was after all, a tremendous step in her life. One that took a lot of courage to take and he knew she needed his support, "I believe you're doing the right thing Beverly." "I hope you're right." "You're going to be a great captain Beverly, don't you worry about that." Grateful for what he had just said, she smiled, "Thank you. That really means a lot to me." * * * * * Three weeks later, preparations were well under way for Dr. Crusher's departure. A replacement had been found and she was just about finished tying the odds and ends she had left in sickbay. Her reports were done and she had almost finished emptying her office. "Need help with anything?" Beverly who had her back to the door, jumped slightly at the sound of the familiar voice, "Oh Deanna... No thanks, I'm pretty much done here." "So, tomorrow's the big day..." Deanna said trying to sound as happy as she could. She and Beverly had always been very close and both would surely miss the other very much. The doctor lowered her gaze and nodded, "Yeah." "I guess this means I'll have to find another exercise partner now." Deanna said, trying to lighten the mood a bit. Beverly appreciated her friend's intent and tried to match it, "Just be easy on whoever it's going to be, she may not be as fit as we are." Deanna giggled a bit and picked up one of the boxes on Beverly's desk, "Well, at least let me carry one of these for you." Beverly picked up the last remaining box and duffle bag and headed toward the door. She then turned around to look at her now empty office and sighed, "I sure am going to miss this place." Just as they were about to reach sickbay's main doors, they parted to reveal Dr. Renee DeMontigny. She was a petite woman, with light brown hair and blue eyes. Her reputation was one of being a strong commander as well as a devoted doctor. In fact, she was to become the new chief medical officer on board. "Dr. DeMontigny, how nice it is to run into you." Renee smiled, "Likewise Dr. Crusher." It was a bit amusing to think that Beverly's replacement was only as tall as her shoulders. Upon seeing Deanna, Dr. DeMontigny extended her hand, "I don't think we've met. My name's Renee." Deanna shifted the box she was holding on her side and in turn shook her hand, "Ship's counselor Deanna Troi. It's a pleasure to meet you." The senior officers were supposed to meet later on in the observation lounge for a routine meeting. Dr. DeMontigny was to attend along with Dr. Crusher so she could meet everyone. It now seemed she had a head start with the introductions. Beverly then said, "I've emptied out my office, so feel free to move in anytime you feel like it." Nodding, Renee answered, "Thank you." It felt very strange to Beverly knowing that this time tomorrow she would no longer be in charge of sickbay. She did however have a lot of confidence in her replacement. Some of her colleagues had already worked with her in the past and all had good things to say about her. Sickbay was going to be in very good hands at least. * * * * * It was now early in the evening. Beverly stood amidst the many packed boxes in the living area of her quarters. All of her memories aboard this ship were now safely stored and all that remained were bare empty quarters. She exhaled and rubbed her neck. I guess that's it... It was now 1830 and Jean-Luc was coming to by in less than an hour so they could walk together to her farewell party. She walked in the bedroom and went to the closet. Only a handful of garments remained inside. She pushed aside the uniform she was going to wear the next day and took out the dress she was going to wear that evening. She then turned and headed toward the bathroom for a quick shower. * * * * * Jean-Luc was now making the last turn in the corridor before reaching Beverly's quarters. He still couldn't believe that she would be gone tomorrow. There would be no more breakfasts together, no more late night debates. Well... not for a long time at least. So often had they taken the other for granted. It was only now that he realized it. Once he got to her door, he paused and took a deep breath. With slight hesitation, he brought up his hand and rang the chime. He expected for her to summon him inside, but nothing happened at first. So he just stood there and waited a few seconds longer. He was just about to ring the chime again when this time, the doors parted. Before him stood a picture of perfection. He had never seen her looking so beautiful in his entire life. The knee length dress she was wearing was made of a deep wine colored fabric. The cut was simple yet elegant with its three quarter length sleeves and high neckline. Her hair was neatly pulled back and her face was framed with her bangs and small strands that fell on each side.The small diamond earrings and the simple white gold bangle that she wore came together perfectly to complete the look. She truly was breathtakingly beautiful. Jean-Luc quickly snapped out of his reverie and said, "Wow... you look... stunning." Beverly laughed softly, "Why thank you Jean-Luc. Might I add that you look rather handsome yourself." Jean-Luc offered her his arm and both started walking toward the nearest turbolift. "So? Anxious about tomorrow?" Beverly smiled at him, "I think anxious is an understatement." Jean-Luc patted the hand that rested on his arm and said, "Don't worry about a thing Beverly. You'll see, things will all fall into place before you know it." "I hope you're right Jean-Luc." Beverly said as they entered the turbolift. "Oh I usually am." The captain said with an impish grin on his face. Beverly just laughed and shook her head as the turbolift doors hissed shut behind them. * * * * * Upon entering the crew lounge, you could see how popular Dr. Crusher was amongst the crew just by the number of officers present. Aside from being just colleagues and patients, a lot of them had been fellow actors in the little theater group she had set up on the ship years ago. Many admired her way of being implicated in the off-duty life onboard despite the important responsibilities bestowed upon her by her position. "There they are." Said the familiar voice of Commander Riker. Beverly and Jean-Luc soon found themselves amidst a crowd. It seemed everyone wanted to have a talk with the newly promoted doctor. It wasn't long before all the guests in attendance sat around a long table for a formal dinner. Picard and Crusher sat just opposite one another. As a waiter poured champagne in his glass, the captain's gaze never left the lovely doctor. She was laughing and chatting with Troi who sat next to her. He felt almost bewitched by her as he watched her take a sip of the golden beverage in her glass. From the first time he had laid eyes on her so long ago, he had wanted her. She was his ideal woman. Intelligent, strong willed and with a beauty that surpassed that of any other woman he had ever seen. Suddenly and without warning, Beverly turned her gaze toward the captain and their eyes locked. She smiled at him in a way that he found absolutely irresistable. Then, before he knew it she turned her attention back to Troi as the counselor continued to tell her some story. As the night went on, a few people gave good-luck speeches and Dr. Crusher in turn got up and thanked everyone in attendance. Once everyone had eaten, a few officers including Riker got on the small stage in the back of the lounge. Riker then cleared his throat and spoke to the crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, as you all know, this gathering is held in honor of one of my dearest friends. A woman who is caring, funny, loves to have a good time and most of all..." He glanced at Beverly and gave her one of his mischievous smiles, "can kick up a storm on a dance floor. This is for you Beverly." Suddenly, the lights dimmed and the band started playing an upbeat jazz tune. Beverly felt her cheeks go red as everyone glanced in her direction. So much for not being known as the dancing doctor... "Doctor?" Data came up to her and extended his hand, "May I have this dance?" Beverly laughed and covered her face with her hand in slight embarrassment. Oh what the heck... I won't be here to hear the gossip anyway. She then reached for Data's hand and let him lead her to the center of the dance floor. All eyes were on the two of them as they executed complicated steps in complete harmony with one another. Although most knew that she could dance, few had ever seen her talents. She was a very good dancer indeed. Beverly was truly having the time of her life. Though it was bittersweet, it meant a lot to her that all these people had come by to wish her well. And as the upbeat song faded into a softer tune, the other guests started to fill the dance floor. "Thank you for the dance Data." "It was my pleasure doctor." It was surreal how Data's emotions could show right through his smile. His expression, though somewhat upbeat, had a sad feel to it. Beverly was truly amazed at what his emotion chip had been able to do. From across the room, Jean-Luc had watched Beverly's every move with guarded sadness. He was trying hard to hide the turmoil of emotions that soared through him at that moment, but it really felt like a losing battle. The captain took a deep breath, Well you can't just sit here by yourself for the rest of the evening Jean-Luc, she'll be gone this time tomorrow. He then got up and headed for the dancing crowd. "May I cut in?" Beverly turned around, surprise written all over her features, "Jean-Luc." She then turned to look at Data who nodded in agreement. As the android retreated, Jean-Luc smiled and said, "Thank you Mister Data." Beverly smiled warmly at him as he took her into his arms, "Well, this is one thing I didn't expect this evening." Jean-Luc smiled, "How so?" "I thought I would have to drag you kicking and screaming to dance with me." She answered with the sweetest laughter in her voice. "Well, I may not like dancing in general, but dancing with you is another story." Even though he had said it lightly, Beverly somehow knew there was sincerity in that statement. Their attraction to one another was after all no secret between the two of them. As the song lingered on, he held her a bit tighter still. The feel of his hand on her lower back strong yet gentle. She leaned forward so that the left side of her face lightly touched his. She now felt closer to this man than she had at any other time in her life. It's funny how you never know what you have until you lose it. Although she had to admit to herself that what they had never truly went beyond that of best friends. It was perhaps one of her biggest regrets. Well... it was a bit too late now. They were going their separate ways and would probably just see each other on rare occasions. In the few minutes they had spent dancing, they had somehow shut out the rest of the crowd. The soft tune and rhythm of their breathing was the only thing they were aware of. Once the song ended, they parted slightly and gazed at one another. Suddenly, they were pulled back to reality by the sound of applause and that of commander Riker's voice, "Any requests this evening?" The party then went on well into the night as they both mingled with the many officers present. * * * * * Jean-Luc came back to his quarters at around 0130. He took the few steps necessary to get to his favorite chair and plopped down into it. He then leaned in forward and put his head in his hands. What he would have given to have Beverly here with him now. When he had accompanied her to her door, they had gazed at one another for what seemed like forever. Neither saying anything, but both knowing that it would have taken nothing more than a simple goodnight kiss to entice them to something more. Something that neither of them needed at the moment for it would only complicate a situation already complicated enough. It had taken every once of strength he had just to resist pulling her to him. He breathed out slowly, trying to get rid of that hazy feeling he had, "Come on Jean-Luc." As he got up and headed to bed, he knew damned well that he would not sleep very well. Beverly would haunt his thoughts just like she had so many times before. * * * * * Beverly had finished packing all she had and was just about ready to leave. She looked at the quarters she had come to know as home one last time and then exited to the corridor beyond. In the few minutes it took for her to get to the transporter room, her life onboard flashed before her eyes. She smiled to herself as she remembered her many girl talks with Deanna, her theater rehearsals and her work. Most of all however, she thought of Jean-Luc. She remembered their many breakfasts together as well as their many arguments. Of course they had bickered from time to time, but they were so close that everything always seemed to work itself out. Although she knew many great adventures lay ahead, she had a hard time imagining what life was going to be like away from the Enterprise. As the large transporter room doors became visible just ahead, Beverly paused and took a deep breath. She looked down at the duffle bag she was carrying and then resumed her slow walk. Once she finally entered the transporter room, she saw that the entire senior staff was there to say goodbye. Each of them spoke to her briefly and wished her well. "I'm going to miss you Beverly." Deanna said as she hugged her friend. "Thanks Deanna... I'm going to miss you too." "Well, you better keep in touch and fill me in on that exciting life of yours." Deanna was smiling, but sadness was still evident in her eyes. Beverly's expression matched that of her friend's, "You do the same you hear?" "I will." As Deanna joined Will and the others, Beverly turned to the only person which had stayed silent up to that point. Beverly knew how uncomfortable Jean-Luc could become in situations like this when he had an audience. So without leaving his gaze, she asked the others if they would kindly let her and the captain have a word in private. Beverly smiled sadly as they all left the room. They just stood there in silence for a few seconds, neither knowing exactly what to say. "So I guess this is it..." Jean-Luc was the first one to speak. Beverly nodded, "I guess it is..." "I'm very proud of you Beverly." Beverly lowered her gaze, "Thank you..." Her voice was low and somewhat chocked. "Come here." Jean-Luc said as he gathered her in his arms. While he held her, the captain exhaled deeply. As he did so, Beverly could hear the wavering sound it had to it. "You can't imagine how I'm going to miss you Jean-Luc." As he gently stroked her hair, he exhaled and closed his eyes. Beverly pulled back a little to look at him, "Well, we'll still see each other from time to time..." Jean-Luc nodded but his expression did not change. Knowing what was going through his mind, she said, "But it still won't be the same... I know..." "Take care of yourself Beverly." "The same goes for you." A few seconds passed without either of them saying anything. Their eyes revealed more than words ever could anyway. Then Jean-Luc did something that he never thought he would have the courage to do. He gazed lovingly in her extraordinarily beautiful blue eyes and leaned in to gently kiss her. What Beverly initially thought to be a friendly kiss, quickly turned into something more. Lingering and tender, it was different from the previous kisses, they had shared during their complicated friendship. As he felt her melt into his embrace, Jean-Luc completely lost himself in the moment. After all, this was something he had fantasized about countless times before. However, he quickly realized that kissing her this intimately surpassed even the deepest dreams he had ever had of her. When they finally pulled apart, Beverly slowly breathed out and lowered her gaze, "Oh my..." A combination of surprise and disbelief was evident in her eyes. Even Jean-Luc seemed a little taken aback by what had just occured between them. He cleared his throat and slightly stepped away from her. Before he could have a chance to say something, the communications link opened, "Bridge to transporter room one." Without tearing his eyes off Beverly, the captain tapped his combadge and responded, "Go ahead." "The Penfield has hailed us and they are ready to receive captain Crusher." Picard slowly nodded and answered, "Thank you, Picard out." Beverly smiled in an almost shy manner, "Well... I better get going." As she stepped on the platform, she quickly cast a glance over her shoulder to see Jean-Luc assuming position at the transporter console. He tapped a few commands and looked up at her once more, "Good luck Beverly." She smiled lovingly at him and said, "Until next time Jean-Luc." "Until next time." He answered, unsure of what that next encounter would bring. * * * * * It had been a week since Beverly had left the Enterprise. However, Jean-Luc had yet to hear from her. Getting to know your crew and settling in took a while on a new ship and he was sure it had been a very busy week for her. Each time he would have a minute to himself, he would check his messages in the hopes one would be from her. Although he was anxious to know where things lay between them, he also knew that Beverly would need time to sort through what had happened between them. She had always been afraid of their relationship and he knew all too well that pushing her would only drive her away. He only hoped that the kiss meant as much to her as it did to him. Was it just a fleeting emotion born out of the mixed feelings one has when leaving a place so dear to them? This was among the many questions that plagued him and keeping his mind off of them was proving to be a difficult task at best. After all, dwelling on such things would only get his hopes up and the last thing he needed was getting his heart broken again. He had just gotten back to his quarters after a long day on the bridge. However, instead of going straight to his computer console, he decided that he would relax a bit first. Once showered, he selected his favorite music from the computer and headed to the replicator to get himself a cup of tea. Now that he was settled in for the evening, Jean-Luc went to his desk and activated the monitor. As he scrolled down some of the messages, one immediately caught his eye. It's from Beverly... Captain Jean-Luc Picard U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E Dear Jean-Luc, Please forgive me for not writing sooner. Things have been rather busy over here this past week. Settling in the captain's chair has been a remarkable experience so far. I have a great crew and a great ship. Oh alright, it might not be the Enterprise, but it's a small ship I can call my own. Although time goes by at an incredible pace, I have been missing the Enterprise and perhaps you most of all. Whenever I leave for the bridge in the morning, I often have to remind myself that I can't walk over to your quarters for breakfast. I guess old habits die hard. I would have loved to have a chance to talk to you further before I left. Although I still don't know what to make of it, I can't seem to take my mind off of what happened between us. It all happened so fast that it was over before I really had a chance to realize it was happening. I truly miss you and hope to hear from you soon. In the meantime, take care of yourself Jean-Luc. Beverly Jean-Luc read and reread that letter countless times that evening. He still wasn't sure where things lay between them, but at least she hadn't said the kiss had been a mistake. He truly loved her with all his heart and hiding it from her had been impossible as she was about to leave. Although he was not going to push her into making a decision about them, he decided that expressing some of what he felt toward her would be the right thing to do. * * * * * Beverly had retired to her ready room that afternoon to go over some reports. As she went to check her messages in between the lengthy reviews, her heart skipped a beat. One of her messages was from Jean-Luc. Captain Beverly Crusher U.S.S. Penfield NCC-2707 Dear Beverly, I was really happy to hear that things are going well. I had no doubts that you would settle in the big chair as quickly as you did. I am very proud of you. Things have been going good around here as well. I've heard that a lot of crew members miss you... As do I actually. Things have felt somewhat empty since you left. Every day that goes by feels as though it's missing something or someone I should say. The last thing I want to do is push you away but I also think that it's important for you to know how I feel about you. It's no secret that I have always had feelings for you. At times however, I found myself to have to try and bury those feelings for the sake of duty or fear of scaring you away. However, just as you were about to leave, all of those feelings that I had so often tried to hide escaped. I guess the prospect of not having you in my life on a daily basis frightened me more than I thought it would. I am truly sorry if I overstepped my bounds. I never meant to complicate things for you. I will always be your friend no matter what happens Beverly. I just wanted you to know that. Jean-Luc That night was sleepless for Beverly. As she lay in her bed staring at the stars, Jean-Luc filled her every thought. She had always used the fact that they served together as an excuse for them to just remain friends but now it was no longer the case. However, could she handle a long distance relationship? No matter what the situation was, there would always be a problem. The real question was, was she ready to deal with those problems? Even though she was nowhere near ready to tell him, she really was in love with him. Beverly glanced at the chronometer on her nightstand and sighed. The doubts she had needed to be resolved, but she could not do that on her own. So now, there was only one thing to do. She got up and headed for her desk. * * * * * Captain Jean-Luc Picard U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-E Dear Jean-Luc, My mind has been filled with a million questions lately, but I've come to the realization that to get through those questions I would need your help. First and foremost, don't apologize for acting on what you felt. It took a lot of courage for you to take the first step. I also don't want you to think that that kiss meant nothing to me. I kissed you back didn't I? Now as for what comes next, I'm still uncertain. I often used the fact that you were my commanding officer as an excuse not to deal with our feelings. Although that is not the case anymore, more obstacles are added to the situation. Mainly the distance that now separates us. There are just so many things to consider that I don't know which way to start. I know that I'm probably not making very much sense to you at the moment, but this will take some time for me. It takes a lot of patience to deal with a complicated person like me, but I guess you already know that by now. Beverly * * * * * Jean-Luc stood motionless at the viewport in the observation lounge. As the stars streaked by, he thought of what Beverly had written. They did have a lot of issues to work through, but he was hopeful. He was actually surprised that she had even asked for help. She was usually the type of person to avoid sentimental issues especially when they were complicated. As he brought up his hand to touch the cool glass surface, he closed his eyes and slowly exhaled. * * * * * Captain Beverly Crusher U.S.S. Penfield NCC-2707 Dear Beverly, I know that there are a lot of obstacles in our way, but every relationship has them. Whether they can be overcome depends only upon the persons involved. I love you Beverly, I truly do and I would like nothing better than to have a chance to show you how. Whatever hurdle is thrown our way, I am willing to overcome. The question is, are you? I know that all of this is a lot to take in all at once. That is why I ask you not to rush in your decicion. Take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere. Jean-Luc Once she had done reading his short letter, the tear that had threatened to fall to her cheek finally did. She then buried her face in her hands and started to sob quietly. * * * * * Two weeks went by with no word from Beverly. As Jean-Luc patiently awaited another letter, he couldn't help worrying about what it might say. She had backed away from them once before, she could do it again. Whenever he had a moment to himself, his mind would start wandering. All he could do to not go crazy was to keep busy. He often went fencing on the holodeck and he even joined a few of Riker's pocker games. In the darkness of his quarters however, his thoughts would always return to the only woman who could haunt him like that. In his dreams, he would have the chance to hold her. The scent of her perfume then as vivid to him as it was when she was near him. As he was sitting at his breakfast table that morning, he realized how truly lonely he was. Beverly had been pretty much the only person on board who sought out his company. Although he had always been a very private man, he found the loneliness of his quarters a bit disturbing that morning. What if she decided to leave things as they were? He shook his head deciding not to go down that road of thought. Then just as he was about to leave, his desk monitor beeped. Jean-Luc jumped slightly as the faint sound was to notify him he had an incoming message. What if this is it? As he got up, he took a deep breath. Once he sat down at his desk, he scrolled down the screen and saw it. INCOMING MESSAGE USS PENFIELD, NCC-2707 CAPTAIN BEVERLY CRUSHER VISUAL FORMAT He felt his heart beat a mile a minute as he activated the message. "Hi Jean-Luc." Said Beverly as she smiled a bit nervously, "I don't know about you, but the past few weeks have been quite..." She paused, searching for the right word, "something haven't they? I've been thinking about us non-stop ever since I got here in fact and I've finally made a decision..." At the sound of those words, the captain held his breath. She looked down for a second before she spoke again, "This is by far one of the most important decisions I've ever made in my life. It's clear to me now that there was only one way that I could truly go." She leaned in a bit further in her chair, "However, I don't think that a subspace message is the right way to inform you of this decision. I checked with Starfleet command and it seems we'll both be at starbase 86 next week. I know that you must be anxious about all of this, but since it affects us both so profoundly, I'd prefer to tell you face to face. I'll let you know where to meet me once we get there." She smiled sweetly and added, "Well until then, take care Jean-Luc." * * * * * It was quite late in the evening on the starbase and the corridor which led to the wildlife museum was deserted. The walls were made of clear glass which held and enormous aquarium on the other side. As Jean-Luc waited for Beverly, he contemplated the marine animals that swam past him. It had now been a long month since he had last seen her and he was anxious for her arrival. Most of all however, he was anxious for and answer. "Hey stranger." He quickly turned in the direction of the familiar voice, "Beverly..." There she stood, on the other end of the corridor looking as beautiful as ever in the bluish haze created by the surrounding water. Both stood there immobilized for an instant. Then each started walking toward the other at a rapidly increasing pace. When they finally met, Beverly threw her arms around his neck as he lifted her off the ground in a tight embrace. "God I missed you Beverly." Jean-Luc said in a hushed voice. "I missed you too Jean-Luc." As they pulled apart slightly to look at one another Beverly spoke, "I love you." Jean-Luc shook his head disbelieving what he just heard, "Wha... you do?" Beverly smiled and nodded to emphasize he had heard correctly, "I love you Jean-Luc. I really do and there is nothing I want more than to be with you." Picard was absolutely speechless. He had been so afraid that she would turn him down once more that he had mentally tried to prepare himself for it. Even though he felt like he was daydreaming, reality soon hit him as Beverly raised her hands to his jaw and pulled his mouth to hers in a passionate lingering kiss. Once it was over, Jean-Luc pulled her closer still and held her in his arms tightly. Stroking her hair, he whispered in her ear, "You can't imagine how much I've longed to hear those words Beverly. I've loved you for as long as I can remember and a part of me never thought that this day would come..." His voice faltered and he breathed out slowly. "Oh Jean-Luc." Beverly said as she fought back tears, "I'm so sorry. If only I hadn't been so afraid, we wouldn't have wasted all those years..." "Shhh." Jean-Luc pulled away slightly and gently touched her lips with his finger, "Don't be sorry Beverly. All that matters is that we're together." He smiled at her and continued, "I'm the happiest man in the universe right now." Smiling through her tears, she answered, "And I'm the luckiest woman." Gently caressing the side of her face, the captain leaned in and kissed her once more. Although certainly filled with many challenges, the future seemed to hold a lot of promise for them. And as they lost themselves in one another, both knew that their lives would never be the same again. The end... for now... There will be a sequel to this story. So please check again soon. BACK TO LIBRARY |