Chapter Text
I collapse onto the sofa in my ready room and even as I try to prevent it I can feel the tears coming. I curl up in a ball as the sobs take over me, mind and body.
I feel the sofa dip by by head and start to panic. I thought I had put a lock on the door. Apparently in my sleep deprived state. I forgot.
A hand touches my cheek then slides down to my shoulder. HE my newly promoted ex-Maquis first officer gently strokes my shoulder asking in a worried voice if I need help.
Do I need help I think incredulously then bite back the harsh retort on the tip of my tongue. He doesn't deserve that he is only trying to help. I sit up, he looks at me with even more worry. Okay maybe this wasn't such a good idea oh well to late now.
I ask unimportant questions about crew moral and ask him how his crew is settling in. He regards me seriously and replays I an off hand way. Just as I go to ask another question he touches my shoulder again ad stops me with a look.
I glare at him then sigh and wave my hand at him just say it I think, then ‘oh crap did I say that out loud’. By his surprised expression I did. Okaaaay this isn't what I expected oh well grab it by the horns Janeway. I smile and nod telling him that its ok
He looks surprised but plows right in and asks for permission to act freely. I stare it him confused for a few seconds then nod confirmation. He.... Hugs me. what the fuck that is not what I was expecting. I stiffen then relax. What the hell Kathryn what are you doing don't let down your guard this quick. He seems to know that I am uncomfortable and releases me fairly quickly.
I stand and walk to the replicator and more for something to do than anything else. Coffee I ask him out of habit. He nods and I request two coffees from the replicator and hand one to him, he takes a sip and grimaces. Guess I should have asked if he wants sugar.