Chapter Nine
Visitors 2 - Willcall

"What time did he say he was going to be here?"

"1500 hours, I already told you that 3 times today," he reminded her.

"I know, I'm just a little nervous," she said checking the recipe again.

Jean-Luc smiled at her and wrapped his arms around her waist as he peered over her shoulder. "What's there to be nervous about? It's just Will."

"I know but I haven't cooked for anyone except you and Wes. And you're not allowed to complain. What if it doesn't turn out right?"

"Beverly, stop it. Whatever you make will be fine. I've seen Will digest Klingon dishes that even most Klingons can't stomach. He'll have no problem with your cooking."

"That's reassuring," she said turning to look at him. "Now let me see if I got this straight. While you two are out gallivanting across the countryside on horseback I'm in the kitchen slaving over a hot stove just waiting for you to return so I can serve you dinner."

"I told you - you don't have to do this. I'll cook dinner myself or we can even go into town. And you're more than welcome to join us for the ride."

"No, I'm fine with this, really. I just need to be able to complain about it is all."

"Fine. I promise I feel completely guilty about it then."

"Good, now I can have you owe me one."

"One what?" he asked curiously.

"You'll find out," she said with a mischievous grin. "It's all part of being married." He wasn't sure if he should be pleased or scared. Life with Beverly was going to be very interesting.

"Speaking of which, how are we going to tell him?"

"Tell him what?" she said innocently.

"That we're engaged," he answered rhetorically. "I'd like to tell him the moment he arrives but a part of me wants to have some fun with it? You should have seen the way he casually asked how long you would be staying. The curiosity is killing him."

"Why don't we tell him over dinner. That way he won't even notice what I'll be serving."

He laughed and kissed her on the nose, "I think I can keep him going until then. Will that make us even?"

"Not by a long shot." She pressed herself into him as her hands began massaging his back, "Now, how much time before Will arrives?"

Very interesting indeed.

The shuttle appeared right on schedule and they went out to greet their guest trying to give no outward signs that anything had changed. Will hugged Beverly tightly and kissed her on the cheek. Even the Captain held both of his First Officer's shoulders in a manly but not too close embrace.

"So, this is the famous Picard Vineyards," Riker began as he took in the scenery. "It's almost exactly as I pictured it. Will your sister-in-law be joining us?" he asked casually.

So it begins already. Jean-Luc smiled at Beverly then said, "No, actually she's been staying with her sister for the past few weeks. Beverly helped deliver a new baby over there so they're staying rather busy right now."

"I see," said Will barely able to contain the thoughts running through his head. So they've been here all alone in this gorgeous house for weeks. He had to get Beverly alone. The Captain was presenting his usual stoical facade but Bev's eyes were sparkling much too brightly.

"Why don't you two go ahead and hit the trail. I'm going to get dinner started," the redhead offered.

Riker wanted to protest but the Captain caught his arm, "No replicators," he explained. "Come on I've already got the horses saddled."

"Are you sure you don't need any help with dinner?" Will asked as the Captain pulled on his arm gently.

"No, you enjoy the ride Commander," she said entering the house before he could ask her anything further.

Riker knew he was being set up for something but he wasn't sure what. Playing poker with the Captain recently taught him that no amount of words on his part could make the experienced diplomat flinch. Bev's right, I might as well enjoy the ride - with both of them in on it I don't have a chance.

"I hope you have some extra clothes," Picard asked as they took their mounts. "The trail may get a bit muddy ahead."

"Somehow I knew that would be the case," Riker replied as Picard dug his heels into his horse and galloped off. "Here goes nothing," Will told his horse as they set off in pursuit.

They raced through the beautiful French countryside. Will was on the Captain's heels for most of the ride but was never able to overtake him. That was fine with Riker after all, he had no idea where they were headed. Slowing to a trot Picard let his companion catch up. They had reached the small river that bordered the property and Jean-Luc called, "So, welcome to my other home."

"It's beautiful," said Riker pulling up even with him.

"You should see it in a few months," Jean-Luc said wistfully. "I'd forgotten how much I missed Spring here."

"Do you plan on staying that long?"

"I guess that depends on the outcome of the court-martial."

"It's just a formality. You said so yourself." He was surprised that his Captain could even have such thoughts. "Unless there's something I don't know about."

"No, I'm sure you're quiet right. I haven't even had the opportunity to go through the reports yet."

"You've been pre-occupied. That's certainly understandable."

"Yes, well I suppose it's time to start reacquainting myself with that aspect of my life." Jean-Luc stopped and dismounted preferring to walk by the riverbank. The current was moving at a rapid pace having just been fed by the winter rains. He found a large leaf and set it in the water. It was only a matter of seconds before it was caught by the rushing water and carried away.

Riker watched him curiously as he moved off his own horse. "It's pretty easy to get caught up in fast moving waters. Before you know it you're somewhere downstream trying to fight your way to the shore."

Picard smiled at him, "Then you should either test those waters before you jump in or enjoy the ride and be ready to paddle like hell when you need to."

"If we both believe the 'Inquiry' is just a formality then there must be something else that has you so distracted." The Captain thought he knew where the Commander was going with this line as he prepared his response. Will started again quietly, "I was an only child, so I don't know how it must feel to lose a brother or a nephew but it must have really put losing the Enterprise into its proper perspective."

Picard looked into the water trying to catch a glimpse of the fish he knew were fighting the current from below. "You realize that it wasn't the ship but the people that were so important." He paused and turned to look at his former First Officer, "I imagine you'll be offered your own ship when this is all over with. This time you're going to accept - there's nothing else I can teach you."

"I don't know about that. I had a hell of a time trying to catch up with you on the ride out here," Will said offering one of his trademark grins.

"I'm just a little more familiar with the territory. You'll probably pass me on the way home."

"Somehow I doubt that." They listened to the rushing water for a few minutes then Will began searching for his own fish. "I can't wait to see what Beverly has planned for dinner. She seems to be quite comfortable here."

"We should probably be getting back in case she needs any help."

"I'll bet she's as talented in the kitchen as she is in surgery."

"You can say that again, Number One," said Picard smiling and taking his mount. He couldn't help offering his own bait, "And her cooking is excellent also." He charged off leaving an open-mouthed Riker in his wake.

She saw them heading for the house covered in mud and laughing. Meeting them on the porch she forbade them from entering until they first removed their boots. That was when she noticed the cut on Will's forehead already caked with dried blood. "What did you do to him?" she said looking at Jean-Luc accusingly.

"Nothing, he's just taller than I am. He didn't fit under some of the branches."

"It's just a scratch. You can look at it after I clean up," Riker said trying to avoid her eyes. Truth was it stung like hell but he was hoping to use it later to get her alone if he didn't find out the information he was looking for at dinner.

Walking upstairs in their bare feet Picard showed him to the smaller guest room. It had been his room at one time and there were still many possessions left from his childhood days. He pointed out the washroom and headed down to the other end of the hall. Riker watched curiously as his host disappeared into the farthest room. I'll bet none of the other rooms have even been used until now. He resisted the urge to check each one for signs of occupancy.

Making his way quietly down the stairs Will listened for signs of his host and hostess in the kitchen. Jean-Luc was opening a bottle of wine as Beverly finished the last touches on the salad. They had their backs to him and he just caught the last moment of a quick kiss. It hit him unexpectedly. He stood there in silence for a moment in awe of the tranquil domestic picture - they were both very comfortable here.

"I hope he likes everything," Beverly said.

"I'm sure it will be fine," he called from behind them. "Do you need any help?"

"No, I think we have it all under control," said the host.

"It sure looks that way," Riker muttered too low for them to hear.

"Why don't you let me take a look at that cut now?" the Doctor said. It wasn't a question and he knew it. "Jean-Luc can you set the table?"

"Of course De- Doctor," he said offering Will a glass of wine.

They moved into the dining room as Beverly examined her patient closely. "It's not too deep but I better go ahead and close it up for you. Stay here and I'll go get my bag." He nodded as she disappeared up the stairs. The Captain had gone back into the kitchen and he couldn't resist moving to the foot of the stairs to see which room she had gone into. It has to be the one at the far end of the hall. He counted the steps.

His suspicions had already been confirmed so why was he still so determined to make them admit it. Maybe because it would be the perfect excuse to call Deanna. She and Worf had left for Betazed a week ago and it had been bothering him more than he would even admit to himself. If the Captain and Beverly had finally been able to admit their feelings for each other maybe . . . .

"Will, is everything all right?" Picard asked coming out of the kitchen.

"Yes, I thought I forgot something upstairs but I'll get it later," he said covering quickly.

Beverly's repairs took just a few seconds and they were seated at dinner in no time. "So tell me what every one else is doing, Will?" she asked.

"Well, Geordi and Data just finished the salvage and investigation. Then they were going to visit Geordi's father & sister for a few days. Unfortunately it looks like the rest of your belongings are being held for awhile. I think they did a pretty good job of salvaging everything but of course it has to be tagged, re-inspected, logged and then held until some Admiral at Starfleet gives the word."

"So you were enjoying your stay at Starfleet Headquarters then?" Beverly said teasingly. The talked easily through dinner then Beverly couldn't resist asking, "What about Deanna?"

"Worf & Deanna headed to Betazed with Alexander last week, but I think the boy was going to visit his grandparents here on Earth soon." He tried not to let the disappointment show in his face but his eyes weren't as bright as they were just a minute ago.

Beverly and Jean-Luc exchanged a glance knowing this was a sore spot for Will. Picard knew all to well how difficult it was to watch the woman you loved spend time with another man. Even when you knew and respected that man - hell that made impossible. A stranger yes but not your best friend. Perhaps some good news would brighten Will's spirits Picard thought.

"This is great Beverly. The Captain said you were really talented in the kitchen," Riker said trying to lighten things up.

"Did he?" she asked wondering what else he might have been said. Picard smiled into his wine glass trying to think of the right way to broach the next subject.

"Will," began Beverly more serious this time, "Have you considered telling Deanna . . . never mind. I'm sorry I brought it up."

"It's all right. I guess I assumed she knew how I felt. She just has different feelings now," Riker said spearing his last bite of food. He moved it to his mouth but realized the lump in his throat wouldn't let him swallow it. He set the fork back on the plate not hearing Beverly's next words but the Captain's voice sounded low and even throughout the large house.

"Twenty-five years ago I fell in love with a brilliant young medical student. Her fiery red hair barely matched the fire in her spirit. She affected me in ways I never thought possible." He paused to make sure he had his guest's full attention. "I told myself I would never tell her how I felt and I didn't. How could I? She was seeing my best friend."

"He made the decision for all of us," Beverly said without emotion.

"I knew how much he cared about her. And I felt he could give her all the wonderful things she deserved - all the things I couldn't."

The silence hung heavily in the air. Beverly brought her eyes up to meet Jean-Luc's. Will watched them trying to discern what emotions were running between them. Finally, he asked, "Do you regret not telling her how you felt?"

Jean-Luc took her hand and spoke into her eyes, "How can I? Last week she agreed to be my wife."

They sat there suspended for a moment as the realization slowly sunk in. Will saw the new look in their eyes as a joyous cry made its way from his heart startling the couple. He quickly came around the table to lift the bride-to-be off her feet .

"I'm so happy for the two of you!" he said kissing her on the cheek as he spun her in the air. "I knew you two would work things out. It sure took you long enough. I was afraid I was going to lose my bet with - uh, never mind."

Turning to the Captain he looked at him gleefully and then grabbed him and swung him around. "Number One!" exclaimed the startled Captain.

"Sorry, Sir. Permission to kiss my Commanding Officer."

"NO!" bellowed Jean-Luc as he stepped back a bit. "However, if you'll consider being my best man I may overlook that order."

"I'd be honored. And I can't wait to tell Dea- everyone. Or is it still a secret?" Riker asked watching as they held each other close.

"What did we decide?" Beverly asked looking at Jean-Luc.

"We haven't. We just haven't had anyone to tell."

"Well, is it a secret or not?" Riker asked more insistently this time.

"Perhaps we should wait until after the hearing?" Picard offered.

"Do you really think we're going to be able to hide this from the others?" Beverly asked. "Heck Deanna has probably already sensed something. I'm surprised she hasn't called to check."

"Why don't we invite everyone out for dinner next Sunday? That way we can have some good news before the hearing," offered the Captain.

"That sounds great. Except-" Beverly began.

"And this time I'll do the cooking," Jean-Luc stated. "That way you'll owe me one."

"One what?" asked Will.

The betrothed just smiled at each other and laughed. Riker suddenly felt very conspicuous. "You know it's getting late. I better get going."

"I thought you were staying the night?" asked Beverly.

"There's plenty of room Will. And I'll bet I can find a bottle of Champagne around here to help celebrate," Jean-Luc offered.

"Champagne?" considered Riker stroking his beard. "Well, why not? It's not every day two of your best friends get engaged." At least I hope not. He wondered how things on Betazed were proceeding.

"Good. I'll be right back," said Jean-Luc heading off in search of the bottle.

"Why don't you let me help you with the dishes?" offered Will.

"No, they can wait. Come on, let's wait in the library," she said taking his arm.

Will started a fire and stood staring into it. Beverly watched as the light from the flames settled into the deepening lines on his face.

"Will, are you going to be all right?"

He flashed her a grin and said, "Of course. If you and the Captain finally admitted your feelings for each other - Dammit, who am I trying to kid? I'm afraid I'm not as noble as Jean-Luc Picard. But then who is?"

She motioned for him to sit beside her as she began, "It wasn't a matter of being noble - it was a matter of being scared."

"I don't believe that Beverly. Hell, he loved you enough to give you up. How would you have reacted if he had told you how he felt?"

"Will, that was different. And honestly I don't know. But I do know that Deanna is not a schoolgirl." She searched the fire for strength. "Twenty-five years is a long time, Will."

"I found it," said the Captain entering with the bottle and champagne flutes. He popped the cork and filled the glasses.

"I believe as best man I get to make the first toast," said Will lifting his glass. He looked at them solemnly for a moment then began, "To two of the finest people I have ever had the honor to refer to as friends. I wish you safe passage as you begin what will ultimately prove to be the most interesting exploration of all. May long life, happy children and the company of good friends be with you on your way."

They raised their glasses and drank.

Beverly stopped after the second glass of champagne but the men continued. They eventually moved onto and finished the Brandy that had been waiting for another special occasion. It had turned into one of those 'manly' contests that she preferred to watch from the sidelines. Neither of them would admit it of course and since they both seemed to be truly enjoying themselves she wasn't about to stop them. Besides, Jean-Luc was so relaxed and he didn't even seem to mind when she indulged in a kiss to his cheek or neck. She did however, notice his ears turning red as her hand unconsciously crept up his thigh.

Champagne had a very definite effect on her and she knew that she had better stop or she would embarrass them all. As if seeing Jean-Luc so happy wasn't intoxicating enough she had to contend with his nearness and the bubbles whispering to her from the glass. "I think I'm going to make some tea," she said rising. "I'll be right back, you two stay where you're at."

"Is everything all right, dear?" Jean-Luc asked as she began to leave.

"Yes, fine. You know how quickly Champagne affects me and . . . and . . . I'll be right back."

"Was it something I said?" asked Will.

"No, I just think the good Doctor would prefer not to wake up with a hangover tomorrow morning," Jean-Luc laughed lightly.

"It's a good thing she is a Doctor then she can give me something for the one I know I gonna have."

"What's wrong Number One? Been too long since you had the real stuff?" The Captain was challenging him and he knew it. If Picard was being affected by the alcohol he sure as heck didn't let it show.

"Perhaps - but I think I can keep up," he said offering his glass for a refill.

The contest continued for sometime as they laughed while exchanging various stories of their time before they came aboard the Enterprise. Will watched with just a bit of envy as the couple reveled in each others company. He had never seen his Captain so animated and he knew it wasn't just the drinks that had affected him.

What must it feel like after 25 years to finally be with the person you were obviously destined to be with? Will's thoughts kept returning to his Imzadi. Perhaps it was already too late? His thoughts were interrupted by his host's newest challenge.

"I'll show you," said the Captain, "I know it's still has to be in my old room. I'll be right back," he told them as he headed for the stairs.

Will was relieved to see just the slightest hesitation as Picard judged the stairs before taking his first step up. He and Beverly were both laughing so hard tears were forming in their eyes.

"You don't really think he has one, do you?" Will asked Beverly when he could catch his breath again.

"Haven't you learned not to challenge him yet?"

"Sorry, I couldn't resist. I was hoping there was at least one thing he didn't do better than anyone else in the Galaxy."

"Hmm, " Beverly smiled fondly, "I haven't found anything to complain about."

"I'm sure he'd say the same thing about you." Will stood to try and stretch his legs but a wave of dizziness hit him. Beverly laughed as he took a seat on the floor this time by her feet.

"I'll prepare a hypospray for you in the morning."

"Not unless the Captain needs one also," he said still trying to keep up the charade.

"Fine, we'll see how you feel about it tomorrow."

"So tell me," he said looking into the fire, "what did it? what finally happened to get you two together?"

She followed his eyes to the dwindling flame, "Everything - and nothing." He searched her face for a more complete answer. "It was just right. After everything we had been through we realized that there was one constant in our lives - each other. And even though we've been through so much in that time it wasn't any one event that did it - it was the sum of those events."

"Beverly, do you think it's too late for Deanna and me?"

"I don't know. But you may never know if you just walk away right now."

He rested his head against her knee as she caressed his head lightly. Her touch was so soothing. He let the emotions he'd been fighting for months escape from his heart. "I really do love her," he whispered hoarsely through the soft sobs.

"I know that Will," she whispered back. "But sometimes that's not enough,"

On the bottom step Jean-Luc sat and listened to the anguished exchange. He took the box he held in his hands and opened the top for just a minute. It was still there - waiting for him. It would still be there tomorrow. He silently walked back up the stairs and returned it to its hiding place.

This time as he descended the stairs he made sure they knew he was coming. And upon entering the library he exclaimed, "You were right Number One. I couldn't find it. Maybe I'm starting to remember things that never happened or maybe that brandy is starting to take hold."

Will stood up and almost fell over. Both Beverly and Jean-Luc moved to help steady him. "I think we should put our guest to bed," Picard said as he tried to steady himself from the rapid movement.

"I'm fine," insisted Riker. But as he took his next mis-step he had no choice but to concede defeat. "Then again - I plan on leaving pretty early tomorrow."

"Uh-huh," began Beverly with a glance toward her best friend. "Don't worry breakfast will be at 0600 hours. Will that be early enough for you?"

Jean-Luc laughed - they hadn't made it out of bed that early since. . . well not they were last on the Enterprise. "What would you like for breakfast Number One? How about some green Alberian eggs soft boiled so that there still alive when you break the shell?"

"Can I get a side of live Gagh with that?" he asked bravely.

"Enough," Beverly called as her own stomach began to churn. "I swear don't you ever back down?"

It was unclear who she was addressing with her last comment and they both called out in unison, "He started it!"

She gave them an exasperated look as they broke into a respectable giggling fit - if there could be such a thing. Will began to topple over as the Captain and Doctor each took an arm and led him to his room.

Will fell on the bed fully clothed, face down. "See if you can get his boots off," Beverly told Jean-Luc. He was very pleased that the younger man had succumbed so thoroughly.

He grabbed hold of Will's boot and tugged it off. "Are you going to help me with my boots?" he asked taking hold of the other leg.

"Depends," replied Beverly, "Are you going to pass out?"

Picard reeled backwards as the boot came off much easier than the first. He grabbed onto her for support but his momentum sent them both crashing to the floor. He kissed her passionately enjoying the feel of her body pressed against him. "If I do pass out, it won't be from the alcohol."

From the bed came a mumbled voice, "Geez, I thought you two had your own room."

They laughed as they righted themselves and headed to the door. "Good night Will."

"Good night Number One."

But the guest was already dreaming.

After a leisurely and traditional American breakfast, pancakes and bacon, they escorted their guest to the shuttle.

"So next Sunday?" the bearded one asked.

"Yes, since you'll probably be out of range, let's say 1700 hours. That will give us sometime to talk with everyone before dinner," offered the Captain.

"That sounds great," responded Will.

"If there's anything you need in the meantime don't hesitate to call. I'll make sure that Jean-Luc answers his messages from now on," Beverly said with a side glance toward her fiance.

"I can't blame him for wanting to keep you to himself." Will gave her a hug and kissed her cheek. "But he's going to have to let me have at least one dance at the wedding."

Picard smiled as he shook Will's hand, "Be careful Number One. Don't get caught in any currents out there."

"Don't worry. I learned how to paddle from the best." Riker boarded the shuttle with a grin.

They watched his shuttle disappear into the distant sky. Then defying the cold winter chill they walked through the fields stopping every now and then to share a kiss. Moonlight or sunlight their hearts captured and reflected it all.