Chapter Ten
Sunday Dinner

"You're enjoying this entirely too much."

"I can't help myself," she replied as a devilish grin came across her lips. "Please, just once more."

"Our guests will be arriving at any minute," he reminded her.

"Please." She dipped her finger into the chocolate sauce resting on the counter next to her.

He looked at her in mock anger, "That's for the desserts." She slowly placed the chocolate finger into her mouth keeping her eyes locked onto his. He swallowed as she withdrew the clean finger and crooked it in his direction. "You can be very distracting when you want to be, " he told her turning his attention back to the final preparations for dinner.

She laughed as she hopped off the counter and crossed to his side. "It's already open, all you have to do is read. You know I love the sound of your voice." She wrapped her arms around his waist and peered over his shoulder.

He was so meticulous. She had watched all afternoon as he carefully prepared each course. Precisely chopping the vegetables and measuring each ingredient as though it were a chemistry experiment. Improvisation only came after he'd tasted each dish. Then he skillfully adjusted the spices until he was satisfied with the final result.

"It's a cookbook, Beverly. You sound as though you're auditioning me for one of your plays."

"Which you never did appear in. Just once more and I'll leave you alone; I promise," she said as she batted her big blue eyes at him.

He placed his hands flat on the counter and took a deep breath. The deep, rich timbre of his voice reverberated throughout the kitchen as he began, "Let your hands work with the texture, a gentle circular motion as your fingers press into the dough working your way over the smooth surface and back again. As the texture becomes firmer-" he stopped abruptly. "Beverly, this is ridiculous."

She squealed in delight as she kissed him on the back of the neck. "Thank you, I promise I'll be good all through dinner."

"Uh-huh. You're always good. The problem is sometimes you're very good at being . . ." He turned to face her.

"I'm good at being what, Jean-Luc?"

"You're very distracting. Have I told you that?"

"Yes, about 3 minutes ago." He leaned forward and kissed her. Her hands pulled him closer as the kiss deepened. He began to move his arms up to encircle her waist. Unfortunately his elbow went too far back and toppled the bottle of wine he had just opened.

"Damn!" he said quickly turning to stop the flow of red wine. He caught it before it ran onto the floor but the sleeve of his white shirt was now covered with a lovely burgundy stain. Beverly reached for a towel and quickly sopped up the remaining liquid as Jean-Luc moved to the sink and ran his sleeve under the faucet. As she handed him a clean towel he turned and said, "extremely distracting."

"Sorry," she said beginning her apology. Then running her hand lightly over his chest she teased, "Would you like me to help you into a clean shirt?" He raised his eyebrows but before he could speak the front door chime rang.

"Our guests," he announced. "Can you answer the door while I change?"

"Yessir, Captain Sir." She called as she followed him into the foyer. He shook his head and laughed as he ascended the stairs.

"And you know the routine," he called back.

"Yes, now hurry up," she said checking herself in the mirror before answering the door. "Geordi, Data," she called taking each one into her arms.

"It's good to see you, Doctor," Geordi began.

"Hello Doctor," Data said as he imitated Geordi's welcoming gesture.

"Come in, both of you and it's Beverly, not Doctor tonight. Is that clear?"

"Yes," replied the darker man as his gold-skinned companion nodded. "So where's the Captain or is it Jean-Luc? Although I don't think I could get used to that."

She laughed as she led them into the library, "Jean-Luc is changing into a clean shirt. He just spilled red wine all over his last one."

"This is some place," LaForge said taking in his surroundings. It's like stepping back in time."

"I can understand the Captain's penchant for antiquities," commented Data as he began memorizing the contents of the library. He stored the book titles hoping they might give him further insight into the early days of Jean-Luc Picard. She allowed them to explore the room for a minute as she recalled her own experience of discovering the library that first night.

"Can I get you gentlemen something to drink?" she asked as they continued to browse the shelves.

"Not right now, I'll wait until everyone else arrives," replied Geordi.

"Nothing for me either," said Data. "This is a fascinating room. Is the entire house decorated in the same manner?"

"Yes, although you should ask Jean-Luc for a complete tour; he knows the history behind most of the pieces. I'm still noticing new things hidden here and there." She tucked her legs under her as she sat on the sofa.

"You seem to be rather comfortable here, Doct- er, Beverly," commented Geordi as he gave her a sly grin.

"Mr. LaForge, Mr. Data," the Captain called as he entered the room. He warmly shook hands with both men and offered them something to drink.

"We heard you just a had a run in with a nice Red," said Data. Picard looked at Beverly uncertain for a moment. Was this an attempt at humor or did Data mean something entirely different.

Geordi was unable to catch the quick meaningful exchange between the Captain and Beverly. The wine, she mouthed the words to Picard behind Data's back.

"Oh, yes, the wine," Jean-Luc repeated as he explained his delay in greeting them. "I'm afraid I allowed myself to become distracted but I can assure you it won't happen again."

Over Data's shoulder, he could see Beverly mouthing another phrase. It looked like, want to bet?

"Beverly just offered us drinks; I'll wait for the others ," explained Geordi. The door chime sounded again and he added, "Well, it seems like I won't have to wait too long."

Jean-Luc smiled as he excused himself to answer the door.

In front of the house two shuttles landed simultaneously. One of them had been there just a week ago but for the other it was the first visit to that part of Earth. Will emerged from his shuttle just as Worf closed the door to his. They looked at each other but each decided to hold their curiosity in check for the moment.

"Worf, it's good to see you," began Will. He wanted to know why Deanna wasn't arriving at the same time but he put forth his best poker face. Maybe they had problems on Betazed. I'll bet Lwaxana gave him hell.

"Commander," was all the Klingon offered. Well, at least Deanna didn't run straight to him this time. Surely, they would have arrived together? They walked to the door in silence; Will rang the chime.

It was another uncomfortable minute as they waited for the door to be answered. Will hoped it wouldn't be a long wait and he sure didn't want to enter unannounced. Perhaps they moved the time? No, Worf is here; this must be right, he thought. He turned towards Worf just as Picard opened the door to greet them.

"Will, Worf, please come in," said the Captain as he stepped aside.

They each responded with Jean-Luc's title as they entered. Picard looked into the yard expecting the Counselor to be within sight. He turned back to the two men, "Deanna?"

They looked at each other but Riker just shrugged and nodded his head. Worf pulled himself to his full height before beginning, "I last saw the Counselor 5 days ago. I have been visiting my parents here on Earth."

From his tone it was difficult if not impossible to detect any signs that might indicate the status of their relationship. Picard simply smiled and said, "I'm sure she'll be along shortly. Come on, Geordi and Data are in the library with Beverly."

They entered the library as the next chorus of greetings began. Beverly moved to Jean-Luc's side and whispered, "Deanna?"

"I don't know. Worf said he hasn't seen her in 5 days since he left Betazed." Then addressing his guests, "Why don't I bring everyone a glass of wine. I think you'll like this particular vintage."

Before he could exit, Beverly offered, "I'll bring it in. It's the least I can do since you've been cooking all afternoon."

"Captain, don't tell me there aren't any replicators in the house?" Geordi asked sounding more worried than he wanted to.

"Don't worry Geordi," replied Beverly, "I can vouch for his cooking." She smiled and left the room.

"I didn't mean to imply that I didn't trust your cooking, Sir. I'm just a little surprised by the lack of replicators," Geordi added quickly.

Will smiled and placed his hand on Geordi's shoulder, "I was here last week and had a sample of both of their cooking. Trust me it's better than the replicated stuff."

"Thank you Number One," said the Captain, "but breakfast was simple compared to tonight's dinner. I'm not sure I can match Beverly's skills yet."

Riker stroked his beard to hide a sly grin, "She didn't seem to have any complaints."

Beverly had just entered the kitchen when she heard the door chime once again. "I'll get it she called," as she headed back toward the door. She knew who it had to be and wanted an opportunity to speak with her alone. "Deanna," she called as they hugged each other tight. Deanna smiled warmly as she found her friend to be in extremely high spirits.

"You look wonderful Beverly," she said still holding Beverly's hands in her own. Something has made her very happy.

Almost as easily as the empath picked up on her emotions Beverly could tell something was troubling her friend. Her smile was warm but their was a hint of trouble behind the dark Betazoid eyes. "The boys are all in the library. I was just on my way into the kitchen to get the wine, want to give me a hand?"

"I'd love to," she smiled and was glad for a few more minutes before having to face the crowd. Deanna watched as Beverly seemed to know exactly where everything was located in the kitchen. "It smells wonderful in here. Did you cook dinner?"

"No, Jean-Luc insisted on doing all the cooking today." She smiled wistfully as she looked around the kitchen. "He's an excellent cook, you know."

"Somehow, I'm not surprised." Beverly's good spirits were contagious. "You seem rather at ease here; I take it you've been enjoying your stay at the Picard Vineyards." The Doctor knew she couldn't hide anything from her friend, heck she was surprised Data hadn't noticed something was afoot.

Beverly smiled and tried to contain her bubbling emotions, "Yes. It has been rather enjoyable. And you were right, despite the circumstances that brought us here it has been a good opportunity to explore some of those unknowns."

Deanna's face brightened as she stepped closer, "Details, I want all the details."

Beverly shook her head, "Not until you tell me what the hell's going on between you and Worf." Deanna sank into a chair at the kitchen table. "Will was here last week. He told us you had left for Betazed with Worf and Alexander. He also seemed rather curious as to what might be transpiring during your visit. How did everything go? Lwaxana didn't scare him off did she?"

"No, she was actually very cordial - which is perhaps even scarier. And everything went fine, just fine."

"So, what's the problem?"

"I've just had the opportunity to do a lot of thinking over the past few days and . . . and I'm even more confused than ever."

Beverly moved into the chair next to her. "Does it have anything to do with a certain bearded First Officer?"

"I don't know, to be honest with you." She furrowed her brow as she tried to sort through the jumble of emotions. "I thought Will and I had an understanding. And I thought things were proceeding well with Worf and they are . . . but I just don't think I'm ready for a serious relationship with anyone right now. There's no doubt there is a very strong physical attraction between Worf and myself but . . ."

"But that's not enough," Beverly finished the sentence as Deanna nodded in agreement. "I understand that but if you're not ready for something long-term then what is it you're looking for from Worf?"

"I don't know. I'm not even sure how he really feels - he's so hard to read. And then there are the cultural differences." She shook her head as she recalled the incident at the wedding they had attended while visiting Betazed. "Oh Beverly, he's everything I never thought I wanted . . . and yet-"

"Beverly is everything all right," Jean-Luc began as he entered the kitchen. Then noticing the new guest at the table, "Deanna. I thought I heard the door chime. How are you?"

"Just fine, Captain. Beverly and I just wanted a little time to catch up before facing the crowd." She smiled as she moved to hug him.

"I can take the wine and leave you two alone if you like?" he offered.

"No, that won't be necessary," Deanna answered, "I think we're both ready." Beverly nodded as she gathered the glasses. This time their guest did not miss the silent exchange as Beverly looked at the Captain meaningfully.

"So what are we going to drink to tonight?" asked Will Riker knowing full well what was ahead. Picard glanced at him as he filled the last glass. Beverly actually looked a bit nervous as she waited for Jean- Luc to take the initiative. The Captain picked up his own glass and moved to stand next to her.

"Well, first I want to thank you all for coming tonight. You have no idea how much it means to me to have you all here." He scanned his audience for a moment. "Tonight I would like you all to join me in remembering one of the most graceful and elegant ladies I have ever known." They raised their glasses, "To the Enterprise."

They repeated his words then drank in silence as they each recalled the ship they had called home for over seven years. Before the silence had the opportunity to overwhelm them the Captain spoke again. This time his mood was much brighter. "And now for some good news," he began with a glance toward Beverly.

"I hope you're going to tell us they canceled the hearing so we can get on with our lives," offered Geordi.

"Sorry Mr. LaForge but Starfleet has its own ideas about procedures and protocol." He frowned slightly but quickly smiled in anticipation of their reactions. He turned toward Beverly and offered, "Perhaps you would like to tell them?"

"Oh, you're doing just fine. Please, continue," she told him.

"Will one of you please tell us what's going on?" asked Deanna unable to contain her curiosity. The emotions she had been reading from both the Captain and Beverly clearly indicated that they had finally given into their mutual attraction but there was something more - something she was not able to discern clearly. Behind her Will smoothed his beard with a knowing smile.

Jean-Luc raised his glass and began, "To another lady, whose grace and elegance is beyond that of any starship. To my best friend, my future." As he spoke everyone and everything disappeared as he looked into her eyes.

Her words echoed his as she added, "To my best friend, and to our future. May you never regret asking me to share that future."

He smiled, "May you never regret agreeing to be my wife." He leaned forward and kissed her oblivious to the spectators who were looking at each other for confirmation of what they just heard.

A very pleased Will Riker clapped his hands together bringing the couple back to earth and said, "Excellent, now that that's done can we eat?"

Deanna turned to him and exclaimed, "You knew? Why didn't you call me? You knew where I was at."

"Excuse me, Deanna," he replied teasingly, "I have to kiss the bride - again." He tried to make his way past her but she stepped in front of him and hugged Beverly.

"How could you keep this from me?" Deanna asked. "This is wonderful!"

"It wasn't easy. I'm sorry, I thought you had other things on your mind. Will just happened to be on his way through last week." Beverly explained.

As the congratulations continued Will pulled Geordi aside and asked quietly, "So who wins the contest?"

"I'm not sure; we need to know exactly when things changed. How long have they been engaged?" inquired Geordi.

"It had to have been in the first week and we didn't even specify an actual engagement - just. . . well you know what," countered Will.

"But Deanna had it at 5 days and Lieutenant-"

"Gentleman," Data began, "I couldn't help but overhearing." He lowered his voice to their level, "But I believe I also placed the change within one week. Allowing one day for travel, another for rest and a third for insecurity regarding the Captain's sister-in-law ..."

"What are the three of you planning over there?" Deanna asked as they turned to face her.

Geordi and Data suddenly found the floor to be intriguing but Will stepped forward and said "We were just thinking about a Bachelor Party. What do you say Captain? I'm sure Beverly won't mind one last-"

"Not on your life Will," she said taking Jean-Luc firmly by the arm.

Picard smiled at her, "Don't worry. As far as I'm concerned we're already married. Everything else is just a formality." She released her grip a bit. "I always knew you had a bit of a jealous streak in you," he teased. "What's wrong don't you trust me?"

"You, of course. Will on the other hand," Beverly looked at Riker with a threatening eye.

"Why Doctor, I'm hurt," he said as a mock wounded look came to his face.

Deanna stood next to Beverly and offered, "Well if the boys want to have their night out let them. I know the perfect place for us to celebrate - the whole planet is run by women and the men are only allowed to wear these little-" she stopped abruptly as the Captain and Worf offered their most curious looks.

"That won't be necessary Counselor, Commander" Jean-Luc replied, "neither of us are the least bit interested in . . . well, that sort of thing."

Beverly whispered to Deanna, "What planet is that?"

"Beverly," Picard said as a concerned look crossed his face.

"It looks like I'm not the only one with a jealous streak," she countered.

Inhaling deeply he announced, "Dinner is about to be served. Will you all follow me."

As they exited the room Deanna pulled Will aside, "Any idea who the winner of the bet is?"

He smiled slyly, "We're still trying to pin that down. But right now it looks like everyone who called the first week is still in the running."

"I'm sure I can get the details from Beverly later."

"Let's try and pin it down over dinner," offered Will.

"You know how the Captain is about his privacy," she reminded him.

Flashing one of his best grins, "I think if we work together we can do anything." She nodded at him and turned to leave but Will took her arm and turned her to face him. He whispered, "We make a hell of team when we want to." His meaning was not lost her. But she wasn't ready to deal with him yet.

"Everyone's waiting on us Will, we better take our places." He nodded as she slipped from his grasp.

Over dinner the seven caught up on the latest happenings since the accident. Geordi and Data gave a brief review of the reports while Will and the Captain asked questions in preparation for the next week. Beverly could see the concern in his face as the conversation turned from personal to professional business.

I'm not ready to share him yet. She listened quietly as the meal progressed. Finally she saw a brief opportunity to escape as she offered to bring in the dessert. Almost everyone made a counter offer to help but somehow when Worf insisted on helping they knew the issue had been settled.

"I really appreciate your help Worf. So tell me how is Alexander?" Beverly asked as they entered the kitchen.

"That is something I wanted to discuss with you, Doctor?" Beverly turned to look at him, as usual it was virtually impossible to read his expression but there was a hint of concern in his voice only someone who knew Worf might catch. "Is there a problem? He's not in trouble is he?"

"No, nothing like that. I was just wondering how . . ." he sighed deeply, "never mind it's not the same circumstances."

"Worf, you know I'll always be honest with you. If you want my opinion on something all you have to do is ask." He nodded slightly.

"I was just curious how you planned on informing Wesley that you and the Captain were getting married."

She smiled, "Well, he already knows. He stopped by a few weeks ago for a visit."

"Did he approve?"

"Yes, he was very happy. But you're right, the circumstances are a little different than with you and Deanna."

The Klingon thrust out his chest a bit and inquired softly, "Did Deanna say anything to you?"

"We haven't had time to really talk. Why don't you tell me what happened?" Beverly asked as she indicated a chair at the kitchen table.

He sat resignedly and began, "Nothing happened. We visited her mother, we attended a wedding." He leaned forward, "Did you know everyone is naked at Betazed weddings?"

"Yes, I'd heard about that tradition," Beverly laughed. "Worf are considering asking Deanna to marry you?"

He sighed again and looked at the floor, "I had thought it was possible that we could be mates in the Klingon tradition but . . ." he shook his head negatively.

"You don't have to rush into any decisions, Worf. But you do need to speak honestly with her . . . and Alexander. This will impact him a great deal although I know he is rather fond of Deanna."

"As am I. But I don't want to raise his hopes unnecessarily if I can avoid it. There are many cultural differences which can not be overlooked." He stood and picked up the Chocolate strawberry torte. "Chocolate, Deanna will no doubt enjoy this."

Beverly gathered the plates and extra chocolate sauce and followed him into the dining room. Eyeing the sweet, dark liquid she couldn't help but wishing there would leftovers. I can think of several uses for this.

"I know everyone here has attended some type of official inquiry before so I don't have to warn you about the inherent uncomfortable nature of such proceedings. You can feel rather helpless at times but the search for truth is not a comfortable process." They sat in silence as the Captain's words echoed through the house. "I have every confidence that the truth in this case will find all of your actions to be above reproach."

"As were your actions, Captain," added the First Officer.

Picard smiled, "Thank you Number One. I suppose we'll find that out tomorrow."

Beverly saw the momentary uncertainty behind his eyes. How could he even think there was another option? He had told her about the Nexus - there was no other way.

"Once the closed session is over we'll have an idea whether or not Starfleet is trying to assign blame or is simply following standard operating procedures," Jean-Luc added.

"How long do you think the closed session will last?" Beverly inquired.

He turned to her and smiled reassuringly, "Hopefully just a day or two. Don't worry, none of this is going to affect our long-term goals." He would do anything to protect her - not that she needed protecting but he wanted to keep that smile firmly in place. "And none of you are required to be there tomorrow. You'll just be asked to wait outside."

"Then we'll wait outside," said Will.

Beverly took Jean-Luc's hand in hers and said, "It'll be easier for me if I'm there." She wasn't sure if that was the truth but she needed him to believe that. He smiled and squeezed her hand indicating he did.

"Yes," added Deanna, "I think it would be a good idea for all of us to be there." The others nodded in agreement as Jean-Luc looked at each face surrounding him at the table. No longer just Captain and crew but friends; first, last and always.

"Sir," began Data, "I have an inquiry regarding your engagement if you don't mind?"

Jean-Luc looked at Beverly, the same thought running through their minds. This ought to be good coming from Data. Picard shifted a bit in his chair and replied, "Go ahead Data."

"I was just curious as to when you proposed to the Doctor?"

Jean-Luc smiled at Beverly letting her answer. "Data, why did you assume he asked me to marry him? How do you know I didn't ask him to marry me?"

"Careful, Data," warned Geordi, "I think you're being set up." Riker and Troi laughed. At least the question of who won the bet would be solved.

Data smiled and cocked his head knowingly, "Earlier tonight you said, 'may you never regret asking me to share that future,' I took that as an indication that the Captain had indeed proposed to you."

The smile on the Captain's face became broader as he laughed, "Very good, Data. I believe it was the second, no third night here." He looked to Beverly for confirmation.

"It was the third night - although it was closer to morning by that time," she offered.

He smiled at the memory of that fateful evening, "Well, to tell you the truth, Data, I didn't think I had much choice after she seduced me the first night here," he offered teasingly.

Underneath the table Beverly delivered a gentle kick to her fiance's shin as she blushed brightly. The table roared with laughter as the picture fell into place.

Will looked at Geordi and said, "So that means no one won, right?"

"Not exactly Commander, I think someone placed it that early," he answered.

Data scanned for the name of the person who took the first night in France. "I believe Ensign Martens and Nurse Ogawa are the winners."

"Winners of what?" Picard asked curiously.

Beverly had a feeling she knew exactly what the nature of the bet was, "You didn't! William T. Riker, so help me- "

"It was Deanna's idea, she started it," he said defensively as she placed a well aimed elbow to his side.

"That was just between you and me. I didn't expect you to bring the whole crew into it," the Counselor said in response.

"I don't believe this," Beverly said looking at Deanna. "Alyssa?"

"What the devil are you all talking about?" asked the Captain still trying to discern why Beverly was becoming even redder. His exasperated look sent another wave of laughter over the guests.

Beverly looked at him and finally said, "Jean-Luc, they were taking bets as to when we would end up in bed together."

At this point Will and Geordi almost fell out of their chairs as the Captain's jaw dropped open and his eyebrows shot in astonishment. Picard was completely mortified; not only did his closest friends suspect something but the entire crew seemed to be all too aware of the emotions running between their Captain and Chief Medical Officer. On top of that he had just given them the answer to their bet.

He dropped his head and ran his hands over the smooth surface. Beverly placed a hand on his knee under the table as she tried to comfort him. She didn't expect he would be quiet so forthcoming about the events leading up to their engagement.

Speaking to her he asked, "Is this what we have to look forward to? Next they'll start laying odds on how long it's going to take us to make a baby."

"So there are plans for a little Picard?" asked Riker quickly. "Might I suggest the name William- it'll work for a boy or a girl," he joked.

"No!" they called in unison.

"Come on, Data," said Geordi, "why don't you and I take care of the dishes."

"I'll give you guys a hand," offered Will as he rose from the table still laughing.

After they exited Worf said, "I should be going. I promised Alexander I would say goodnight before he went to bed."

"I'll walk out with you," Deanna said as she pushed her chair away from the table. Jean-Luc and Beverly escorted them to the door.

"I'll see you both in the morning," said Beverly as she hugged Deanna.

"Goodnight Sir," offered Worf as he shook the Captain's hand.

"Goodnight Worf, say hello to Alexander for us." Picard replied.

Worf nodded and added, "I know your children will have the hearts of warriors."

As Jean-Luc closed the door he took Beverly into his arms and kissed her playfully. "Why is everyone in such a hurry for us to have kids?"

"That way the won't have to have any - they can just borrow ours," she smiled at him. Then with a more serious look she said, "I hope you'll understand if I'm not ready to share you with anyone just yet?"

"We can't hide here forever."

She shook her head, "No, I mean kids. Do you mind if we wait a little while before we discuss the timing. It's such a big change."

"I understand. I'm not ready to share you just yet either. Although I believe we have the technique for procreation down pretty well."

"I must admit I enjoying practicing with you, oh so much." She began nuzzling his neck.

"Hmm, yes, you can never have too much practice," he said nuzzling her back. Her hands snaking around his waist, pressing him into her. Their lips came together as their bodies responded to the feel of each other.

Outside Worf and Deanna walked to the shuttle. "Counselor," he began.

"So we're back to Counselor now?" Deanna asked.

"Deanna," he started again, "did you enjoy the rest of your visit?"

"Yes, I had some time to think about a lot of things."

"And did you come to any conclusions?'

"No, I'm afraid I haven't found any answers." She tried to sense his reaction but he kept his shields in place.

"Perhaps it would be best if we allowed ourselves some time to seek out these answers. There is no need to rush."

She smiled at him warmly then hugged him tightly. "Thank you Worf. I don't know when the answers might come but I appreciate you understanding."

He was fighting to keep his shields up lest she notice how difficult this really was for him. He told himself in the long run this would be the best way. They were still friends and perhaps some day . . .

He released her and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. Her eyes closed as she fought the urge to reach out to him once again. He turned and boarded the shuttle calling, "I'll see you tomorrow, Counselor."

"Deanna," she corrected him again. He nodded and closed the door. He was looking forward to seeing his friend in the morning.

As she watched one shuttle leave she entered the next one and waited for its pilot to return.

In the foyer Jean-Luc and Beverly had completely forgotten that there were still three guests in the kitchen. Beverly had untucked the Captain's shirt and was running her hands over his back as they continued their nuzzling. Jean-Luc slipped his hands under Beverly's sweater as she responded to his touch on her bare flesh. Just as she moved her hand into his waistband the guests appeared behind his back.

Will stopped abruptly as Geordi bumped into him and then Data bumped into both of them. "Uh, we were just leaving," called Will as they slunk toward the door.

Jean-Luc spun around knocking over a vase of flowers that were on a stand by the stairs. "Damn," he muttered as he moved to upright the vase. This time he caught it before it could spill.

Beverly pulled her sweater back into place and tried to sound as casual as possible, "Thanks for doing the dishes, gentlemen."

"No problem, Doc," called Geordi trying to control a snicker. "We all have an early day tomorrow we should all get to bed - uh, we should be going now."

Data noticed the slightly flustered state of the Captain. As Picard attempted to upright the vase while tucking his shirt back into place, Data couldn't help but observe , "It appears as though you allowed yourself to become distracted again, Sir."

Will and Geordi each grabbed one of Data's arms and dragged him through the door. "We'll see you in the morning," they called as they shut the door behind them.

On the other side of the door Picard could hear Riker and LaForge howling once again at his expense. This time he couldn't help but laugh with them.

In the yard Will said goodnight as Geordi and Data disappeared in the familiar blue light. He saw the light in the kitchen disappear as well as he entered the shuttle. He wondered if Deanna had left with Worf. As he settled into the pilot's chair a voice called from behind him.

"You wouldn't happen to be going my way would you?"

He smiled as Deanna took the co-pilots chair, "I'm willing to make a detour," he told her.

Beverly had disappeared into the kitchen and Jean-Luc called out to her, "You can come out now, they're gone." She moved to the bottom step and looked down at him. In her hand she held a small container. He looked at her curiously, "What have you got there?"

"Just something left over from dessert." She dipped her finger into the chocolate sauce; his eyes opened wide. This time she slipped the chocolate finger into his mouth, "Come on, I'll show you distracting."