Chapter Eight
Visitors - Family

"I think he looks like his father."

"Well, he does have quite a bit of hair. I thought babies were supposed to be bald?" he teased.

She couldn't help but laugh as she ran her hand over his smooth pate. She kissed his nose before settling back into his arms; the two of them just fitting on the couch.

"They change so quickly at that age," she said softly, her head back on his chest, rising and falling with his even breaths.

Had it already been a month? she asked silently. There were times it seemed they were the only two people on planet Earth. The time between sunrise and sunset passed quickly. The nights were even shorter - barely enough time to dream. Fortunately the dreams didn't end when they awoke.

Their first Christmas; how he managed to get that much mistletoe into the house she would never know. Then, ringing in the new Terran year; he found out about the special effect champagne bubbles had on her.

They were amazed at how much time simple tasks took without the aid of technology. Cooking alone took up a great deal of time but neither seemed to mind. When they weren't distracting each other, they made a great team. And an even better team when they were being distracted.

Long walks and discussions, sometimes they even spoke aloud.

And then the rains came. If they had bothered to check they would have known - but what difference did it make?

They lay on the large couch in the living room watching the rain dance on the picture windows. Each held a book but the reading had long since been abandoned. On the coffee table the antique bookstand had become a part of the room - a part of whole. They listened to the steady drumming in the distance as the dancing drops beat against the window then joined before descending downwards.

Unlike his ancestors Jean-Luc didn't have to worry about the volume. It had all been calculated to provide just the right amount for the vines. There were other concerns, however, as he surveyed the grounds and the house with a new eye. There were repairs to be made and preparations for the Spring. Not that he really thought they were going to be able to stay that long but something in him wished that they could.

He had yet to set up the Starfleet monitor but there were already messages being left on the regular one. He had carefully screened and deleted them before Beverly could find out. Not that she wasn't aware that Starfleet had been keeping tabs on them, but he wanted their time alone to last as long as possible. Besides it was nothing urgent, at least as far as he could tell and if they really wanted to get in touch with him they could always send someone out he reasoned.

When the message from Will came in, however, he knew he couldn't ignore them any longer. He waited until she left before returning the call. She had promised to check in on the new mother or at least that's what she told him - he knew it was just an excuse to see the baby. He promised himself that he would do everything in his power to bring her own son to her. He could tell how much she missed him, especially at the holidays.

They had spent part of Christmas day with Marie's family. The bittersweet joy he felt seeing the children playing happily with their new toys, reminding him of another scene, still much too fresh. His nephew's memory; he had missed all his Christmases. He worried about Marie, how must it be for her?

But the children didn't let them wallow in their sorrow for very long. They pulled them into their joy. And when Marie placed the little boy, just weeks old into his arms, she had said, this is why I must go on, this is why I can still feel joy.

Mourning was a private thing in the Picard family and he was glad for it.

In his temporary office at Starfleet Headquarters Will Riker, former First Officer of the starship Enterprise, began going through yet another report. He had been working to compile the unending stream of reports from the accident and making sure that his former crew members had their choice of new assignments. Some had asked for personal time off but many of them were anxious to return to space as quickly as possible. He understood that feeling all too well as he shifted uneasily behind his desk.

Why hadn't Captain Picard returned his call yet? It wasn't like the man, he thought. He knew from others that he hadn't been in contact with anyone from Starfleet since he and Beverly left together. Will smiled hoping the reason no one had heard from his fellow officers was that they had found something else to keep them occupied. Hell, it would almost be worth losing the Enterprise if Picard and Beverly finally . . .

A small beep interrupted his thoughts as he answered the page, "Riker here, go ahead."

"Sir, Captain Picard is returning your call."

Finally, he thought to himself. "Put him through to my office."

"Acknowledged, Sir."

They both looked at each other unsure of who should speak first. Picard knew he should probably offer an explanation for not responding sooner but Will had called him. Riker didn't want to let on that the suspense was starting to get to him.

"Number One, it's good to see you," Picard began.

"And you, Sir. We were starting to get worried. Some of the Admirals wanted to send out a search party but I convinced 'em you'd call when you were ready," Riker responded hoping the Captain would fill in some of the missing pieces. Picard smiled slightly but offered no explanation. Will continued attempting to sound as casual as possible, "I assume Beverly is still with you since we haven't heard anything from her either?"

Picard knew exactly what his First Officer was looking for but he refused to play into his hand - for now. Damn, thought Will, not even an extra blink.

"Actually, that's one of the reasons I'm calling."

"Oh?" Riker said raising his eyebrows just enough to let the Captain know he was curious - but not too curious.

"I guess Wesley hasn't contacted you then?" Picard asked, his voice already laden with disappointment.

"No, we haven't heard anything. I left very explicit instructions when I came here but there hasn't been any sign of him. I'm sorry, Sir."

"Damn," said the Captain looking away for a moment. "It's not your fault, Will. I guess I'm going to have to figure out some other way to find him."

From Picard's reaction he could tell it was extremely important. The Captain hadn't even asked about the 'Inquiry' or anything else, yet. Now he was even further interested to know why it was so important that he find Wesley. "Is Beverly all right?"

"She's fine - just a little concerned about her son." Picard suddenly remembered that it was Will who had called him. "I'm sorry, Will. I'm sure there was another reason you were calling. How is everything at Starfleet Headquarters?"

"Well, the desk chairs haven't gotten any more comfortable. I wouldn't recommend an extended stay."

"I understand," said Jean-Luc with a small nod. "How long do you intend on visiting?"

"Just a few more days. Then home for a few days before the hearing."

"So they've already scheduled that?"

"Yes. Although all the logs support everything we did as being the correct procedure."

"I knew they would. Am I correct in assuming that there will first be a closed hearing to determine why I wasn't on the ship?"

"Yes," Riker said with a slight edge to his voice. "I'll send you the full schedule now that you're back in contact with the rest of us."

"Will, why don't you stop here on your way home? There are a few things I'd like to discuss with you before the hearing."

"Are you sure? I wouldn't want to intrude," Riker said innocently.

"Beverly and I would love to cook dinner for you. Just let us know when you'll be arriving."

Riker was genuinely surprised by the invitation but how could he resist. Maybe he could get some information from Beverly. "I'd like that." Then as an afterthought, "Your sister-in-law won't mind will she?"

Picard almost flinched this time. Riker almost had him and he didn't even know it. "No, she won't mind at all. I hope you'll fill me in on the activities of the rest of the senior staff when you arrive."

"I look forward to dinner, then."

"So do I, Will. Picard out."

Riker watched the familiar Starfleet insignia take the screen as he laughed. "Something's happened . . . and I can't to find out what it is."

After reassuring several Admirals that he hadn't disappeared completely he gratefully shut-off the monitor and walked to the window. The fields were still glistening as the rains had left a shimmering blanket to cover the sleeping fruit. As he turned to go into the kitchen he didn't see the visitor who appeared in the vineyard.

The knock at the back door caught him by surprise. He turned to answer it curious as to why someone had chosen that entrance. The face of the young man smiling at him as he opened the door made his own smile grow.

"Wesley!" he said taking the surprised visitor in his arms. The Traveler was shocked as the Captain gave him a very uncharacteristic hug.

"Sir," was all the young man could say for a moment.

"Wes, come in. I was just trying to find a way of contacting you. Your mother's been very worried about you," Picard began quickly.

"I know. I'm sorry I would have come sooner but I- "

"I understand. Come on, sit down." He pulled the young man into a chair and sat smiling at him. "Beverly's going to be so happy to see you when she gets back."

"She's not here? I thought she had been staying here."

"Yes, she's still staying here. It's just that she went to check on a patient. She should back any minute now."

"Nothing serious, I hope."

"No," he said as wistful smile crossed his face. "Actually she helped deliver a baby last month while we were visiting some friends."

"And she just had to go see how they were doing right? She loves delivering babies." Wesley smiled at his mother's transparency. "So otherwise, how is Mom doing?"

It was a simple question; so why did it suddenly make him uncomfortable. "She seems to be doing fine," he said evenly. Then changing the subject, "How have you been? Can I get you something to drink?"

"I'm fine, thank you." The Traveler considered the sudden unease of his host and had a feeling he knew why. "Captain, is everything all right?"

"Yes, it's more than all right." Jean-Luc considered his visitor for a minute. The features were so familiar; he'd watch them change over the years; no longer the eyes of a boy but a man seeing things like no other.

What was the proper protocol? Should he wait until Beverly returned to tell him or should he ask for the man's permission? No, that was archaic; Beverly had already said yes. Nothing could change that now, could it? "Are you sure you wouldn't like something to eat? Some tea perhaps? I was just about to make some," Picard said moving to the counter.

"Sure, that sounds fine," Wes conceded. He knew there was something Picard was avoiding so he thought it best to wait until his mother arrived to ask any further questions. "Sir, I heard about your brother and nephew. I just wanted to offer my sincerest condolences."

Jean-Luc smiled at him fondly, "Thank you Wesley. It was quiet a shock . . . but then that kind of news always is." He sighed and continued, "How long will you be staying? You're certainly welcome," the Captain said turning to place the kettle on the stove. He tried to think of what they might tell him when it became obvious only one bedroom in the house was in use. Surely Beverly wouldn't insist on some sort of charade.

"I can only stay a few hours. I left right in the middle of some unfinished business and I really have to get back as soon as possible."

"I understand," said the Captain actually somewhat relieved. "Perhaps I should call to see how much longer your Mother is going to be. I know she wouldn't want to miss spending anytime with you."

"If it's not too much trouble."

"Of course not, I'll be -" the sound of a ground car approaching made him stop and smile. "That must be her now. Wait here, I'll bring her to you." He couldn't wait to see the look on her face.

Now he wouldn't have to tell her about the schedule for the hearing until later. And even then he knew she would be happy to know that Will would be coming to visit. "Keep an eye on the kettle will you, Wes?" he called as he left the kitchen.

Beverly was just making her way up to the porch when he met her; taking her into his arms to kiss her full on the lips.

"I see you missed me as much as I missed you," she said smiling at him.

"Indeed. How is the little man?'

"Oh he's beautiful Jean-Luc. You have to come with me next time," she said as that look returned to her eyes.

"I'd like that. But right now I need you to come inside I have a surprise for you in the kitchen."

She raised her eyebrows suspiciously, "I finally had a chance to apologize to Marie for the last kitchen surprise."

"Not that kind of surprise, Doctor."

They were in the foyer now and he knew Wes could hear everything they had just said. "I'm still mortified by that incident. She did however recommend your old bedroom - something about the afternoon light."

"Beverly, please - just come with me," he said holding the kitchen open.

"Fine, but if we end up making love on the- " and her eyes went wide as she entered the kitchen. She was too happy to worry about the blush making its way over her cheeks. "Wes!" she managed taking her own son in her arms.

"Hello Mom. It's good to see you."

"I was so worried about you. How did Jean-Luc find you?"

"I had nothing to do with it," Picard said smiling in the background. "He just appeared at the back door."

"Actually, you both had something to with it," the young man said searching his Mother's eyes for the happiness he knew he'd see there. "You look wonderful. Something has made you very happy."

A light blush came to both her and Jean-Luc's face. This time she looked at her son trying to discern what her future husband had told him. "How long have been here? And long will you be staying? I'm sure it would be all right if you stayed here? Jean-Luc?"

"I already made the offer," he said attending to the teakettle.

"And I already told the Captain that I can't stay but a few hours. I've got some unfinished business to take care of. I slipped away and I need to get back before anyone notices." The disappointment in her eyes was unmistakable and he quickly added, "Perhaps next month, though, I can visit for a few days."

She nodded as Jean-Luc offered, "We'd like that Wesley. You're always welcome here."

"Thank you, Sir."

From the formalness she guessed that Jean-Luc hadn't told him about the change in status of their relationship. She was trying to come up with the words herself, wondering how he was going to react.

"So it sounds as though you're going to be staying here for awhile then?" the son asked. Might as well enjoy this tap dance, he thought.

The mother looked at her best friend for reassurance. "I certainly hope so," Jean-Luc responded in a low voice. She motioned Wes to one of the chairs and took a seat next to him.

"Wesley, we have some thing to tell you," she began as evenly as she could. Her throat was suddenly very dry, "I hope you'll agree with us that it's good news."

"That depends," he said moving his eyes from one to the other, "Am I gonna get a little brother or sister out of it?"

She looked at him shocked for a moment but she addressed her equally shocked fiance, "You told him."

"No, I didn't say a word." Picard was still getting used to the fact that everyone except the two of them knew this was inevitable.

The Traveler stood and gathered his mother in his arms, "He didn't say anything - and I couldn't be happier for you - for both of you. Now give me all the details - you're not pregnant already are you?"

"Wesley, really!" she said in horror. "Of course not, we haven't even - uhm, set a date yet."

"So at least the engagement has been accomplished?" he said moving to shake the hand of his soon-to-be step-father. "Too bad I'm not in Starfleet any more. Having such famous parents could be a real career boost."

Or a hindrance depending on the outcome of the hearing, Picard thought.

"At least if you were in Starfleet I'd have some idea of where to contact you, " the mother began.

"Here it comes," Wes said quietly to Picard. They laughed and joined her back at the table.

She managed to convince him to stay for dinner as they tried to compact everything they'd missed in the past year into a few short hours. Picard was fascinated by the tales of the Traveler and wondered what path he might chosen given those same opportunities.

No regrets, Jean-Luc. Your life is just beginning again, he told himself as he smiled fondly at his wife. It felt so good to think that, Wife, he couldn't wait to make it legal although he already considered them married.

Picard said good-bye and excused himself to the kitchen letting them have a few moments alone before the Traveler was on his way again. Walking outside, her arm tucked into the crook of his, she let herself enjoy his presence. When did that tiny little baby turn into the man who towered above her now?

"Mom, I couldn't be happier for you really," he said turning to her. "He's a good man - one of the finest I've ever met."

"Me too, Wes." She knew he was about to disappear again. "We love each other very much," she said softly.

"I know - it's been apparent for some time. I'm glad you two finally admitted it to each other." His dark eyes caught the soft light from one of the windows as he continued, "I'm beginning to understand what a high price that kind of love has on it."

"Wes, are you sure this is what you want to be doing?"

"Yes. It's where I belong right now." He tried to reassure her, "Don't worry - I'm getting rather good at it. There are still a lot of things I have to learn but I promise I'll be in touch. I'm not going to miss the chance to escort the bride for anything."

"Well, I'm not getting married without you there so you better call."

It didn't matter how far he traveled or how old he became he would always be able to hear her voice calling to him. "I love you mom."

"I love you Wes," she said hugging him tight. Then as he slipped away from her grasp, "Next month, you promised."

He smiled at her, "I promise." And as he began to fade into the darkness he called, "And I was serious about a little brother or sister."

She laughed and walked around the house to the garden; shivering slightly as she sat on the bench alone. After a few minutes Jean-Luc joined her and slipped his arms around her shoulders. She pressed her head against his heart he kissed the top of her head tenderly.

Hidden by the heavy clouds the moon was no where to be found tonight.