Author: Karahkwa

Email: karahkwa@startrekmail.com

Codes: J/?, C/Original

Rating: G

Size: ?K (Approximate 1 typed page)

Summary: It’s too short for a summary

"Tell me something, Chakotay."

"Of course, Captain."

Kathryn sighed. He could be so formal sometimes. "It’s a personal question, Chakotay."

"That’s fine, Kathryn."

"Why haven’t you found…" She stopped not sure how to finish the question.

"Why haven’t I settled down with someone? That’s what you’re asking, isn’t it?"

Kathryn nodded slowly, a little surprised that he knew her so well. "I just hate to see you lonely. Especially when everyone is settling down."

"Even you? I know you’ve been dating someone. But I won’t ask," he added when she blushed. "I haven’t picked a partner to settle down with because… I’m all ready in love. And I can’t be with that person but it wouldn’t be fair to whoever I would be with."

"Chakotay… Is… Is it… a member of the crew?"

Smiling softly, he shook his head. "It’s not in my file, but I’m married. My wife means everything to me. I was to see her after we got back from the Badlands."

"Why didn’t you say anything? Why didn’t you put in the records?"

"Because my wife was a ‘Fleet scientist. We were afraid she’d lose her job and she loved her work. We’d have these romantic getaways and… We never told anyone. I’m sure I can trust you to keep it to yourself."

"Of course. But why? No one can harm her from the Delta Quadrant."

Chakotay smiled. "I like being mysterious. And, besides, if we were ever to return home, then the two people I love the most could be in danger."

"Two?"

"Kianna, my wife and my daughter, Ayasha."

"A daughter, too? Congratulations."

"She’s three and I’ve only seen her a handful of times. I may never see her again."

Kathryn cleared her throat. "I’ll do everything I can to get you home to them."

"I know you will."