writingsfromstarfleet

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[DS9] Gul Dukat - Take A Break

♫ - Take A Break - Hamilton Cast

Sighing, you lifted your head from your desk and stared at the data pad before you. Pushing it aside, you shook your head. So much work had met your path in a such a short space of time, and you were handling it less than well. You had only a week to finish it, and you were certainly convinced it was far more than a weeks worth. Still, arguing with yourself over the time was wasting said time. 

But, you could bring yourself to write no further. Your eyes drifted out towards the stars, as you gazed out of the window above your desk. The stars shone a little brighter than normal tonight, it felt, and the slow hum of the station sent you into a semi-relaxed state. Taking in the view, your eyes fell on the planets that slowly turned in the distance. You pondered whether anyone was looking towards Deep Space Nine from there, too. 

Your door had chimed and brought you from your daydream. It was late and you weren't expecting anyone. The only person it normally was at this time was Julian, often checking on you if you'd had a bad day that shift. But, today was okay, and so you stood with confusion. Before you had managed to get to the door, it had opened anyway. 

Your eyes had fallen upon the station's resident annoyance, Gul Dukat. Not to you, of course, to you it was a welcomed visit each time. You almost inquired as to  how he had managed to get in, but you quickly realised that he used to run this station and it was probably simple for him to bypass your door. 

"I'm not interrupting anything, am I?" came his sultry voice, seemingly not caring too much if he had. 

"Nothing that isn't welcomed."

Dukat stepped inside your quarters, and stopped at the door. His eyes gazed over to you, and his eyes roamed over you as you stood in the light of the stars. You looked almost ethereal, your face highlighted beautifully. Dukat couldn't help himself as he strolled over, taking your face in his hands and looking down at you.

"My dear," he started, placing a kiss to your forehead. "You look stunning in this light."

Your plan aboard this station was never to date, or to fall in love. You were well aware that these things could happen, but you were not expecting to fall in love with the former head of the station. A man most would deem beyond evil. You knew that, and you knew of his past, which is why you tried so hard when you had first met not to fall for his charms. Evidently, that hadn't worked out so great.

Over time, Dukat and yourself had begun to have dinner or drinks together each time he visited, and each time it brought you closer together. You could feel it, you knew that feeling in your stomach whenever he turned up was far from friendship. It was pushing further into the realms of romance, and you found yourself not wanting to stop it. So, you had let it happen. 

Before long, Dukat was showering you with love and affection, bringing you gifts occasionally. But, what you valued most above all was the care he gave you. He may have made some evil decisions in his past, and done some awful things, but you could not doubt how he treated you or made you feel. Never had you felt so safe. Dukat swore he would protect you, and each time you needed him, he had been there for you at the first available moment.

All those moments had brought you to now, where you stood with Dukat in your quarters, eyes full of love as you stared up at him. Your lips had met his own in a gentle kiss. Pulling back, you rested your head against his chestplate, and he held you in his arms. Dukat began to rock you softly, pressing a kiss atop your head.

"My love, I was wondering if I may steal you away for a while?" Dukat asked, running  a hand through your hair idly. 

"I have so much work to do, Dukat, I couldn't..." you trailed off, and Dukat frowned at how tired you looked. Not so much sleep tired, more exhausted. 

"All I ask is a small break. Please, take a break."

You couldn't deny that you needed one. Agreeing, you allowed Dukat to pull you to the sofa, where you sat on his lap. His arms had sneaked around your waist and your rested around his neck, running your fingers through the bottom of his hair. You laid your head on Dukat's shoulder as his hand rubbed its way comfortingly up and down your back, trying to sooth you to a semi-relaxed state. You sighed in content. 

"Thank you, Dukat. I needed this break."

He chuckled. How you loved that sound. "My star, this is not why I asked to whisk you away. I want you to come with me to Quark's."

You sat up and narrowed your eyes, a small amount of amusement adorning your face.

"You want me to go drinking at this time with you, with all of that work over there to do, not to mention all the-"

You were silenced by the Gul who had pulled you into a deep kiss, you pulling and tugging his hair as he did so. Releasing your lips from his own, he remained close, and you could feel his breath against your lips still. 

"No, I want you to stop rambling and trust me," he said playfully, cupping your face with one of his hands, the other resting on your thigh. "I want to show you something."

Truly, you had little reason not to trust him. Dukat had never lied to you and he had never done anything to make you sad or annoyed. He was wonderful to you. So, you agreed. With a nod, he stood, hoisting you up as you wrapped your legs around his slender frame. He spun you round, earning a hearty giggle from you which made him smile. Placing you down carefully, he kissed the top of your head once more and walked you to the door.

"Then, my love, let's go."

A little reluctantly, but still curious, you allowed Dukat to walk you down to Quark's, and the halls were for the most part eerily empty despite it not being incredibly late. Stepping inside, Dukat led you to the holosuite and took something off Quark as you arrived. 

"A holosuite? I fear what you have in here," you joked, and he feigned shock. "I know what you can be like."

"Oh, my love, how little you think of me," he joked back, winking at you. "Now, close your eyes and don't open them until I say."

Complying, you took his hand in your own and heard the door open. Leading you inside, the holosuite oddly felt warmer. You walked a fair way in before Dukat let go of your hand and you felt lips against your own again. Dukat stepped behind you, and wrapped his arms around your frame, leaning into your ear. He whispered to you gently.

"You can open your eyes now."

As you did so, your eyes fell upon a landscape that wasn't too familiar to you. It was simply stunning. There were buildings built high, with sharp curves that contrasted the bright sky behind them. There were birds flying around, and so many different types of flora and fauna gracing the rivers edge. The water before you was glistening, and the whole scene was a picture. 

"Dukat, what is this?" you asked with wonder. 

"This, my dear," he spoke low, kissing your jaw as he moved to your side. "This is Cardassia."

Your eyes went wide, and you looked up to the Cardassian, who was reveling in your curiosity. You had been mentioning for a while that you wished to accompany him back home one day, to see his home world. It had been in passing comments, and you never expected it to happen, especially not with the workload that had been backing up for so long on the station. You were not aware that Dukat had even been paying attention.

"You did this for me?" 

Dukat smiled sweetly, a genuine look of love on his face. He led you to a bench on the balcony you stood on, allowing you both to sit. He placed his hand on your knee, giving you a comforting squeeze. You took his hand in your own and laced your fingers together. 

"I did, I knew the station has been under a lot of stress lately and I had heard that you were exceptionally stressed this week. I haven't been able to visit you properly at all, so I sent a message to Quark and asked him to programme this for you. I know it doesn't compare to the real thing, but I know how much you wish to see Cardassia. So, perhaps this may relax you a little."

"Dukat, you didn't have to go to all of this effort. Just seeing you is enough. But this is incredible. You never fail to go above and beyond."

His eyes were full of adoration as he looked at you. In the light of the sun, Dukat realised that he was falling for you all over again. The wondrous twinkle in your eyes, the curious tone in your voice. He was happy to put his past behind him for you. Dukat was a changed man, something he never believed he would be. But, he had never met someone like you. 

"I do it because I love you. I care about you, more than you could ever know. But I want you to feel loved and cared for, and if doing things like this will ease your stress then I will do anything for you. I know I can't always be with you, but I cherish those moments we have together. I promise I will take you to Cardassia one day, perhaps permanently should you ever choose that."

Taking a breath in, a smile stretched along your face. 

"Permanently?" you spoke, as though you were pondering it as opposed to questioning it. 

"Should your tenure in Starfleet ever expire, or if you grow tired of it, there will always be a place on Cardassia by my side for you."

"You know," you said, musingly. "Perhaps I'll take you up on that offer one day, Dukat."

Dukat smiled as the two of you simply sat in each others company, enjoying the ambience and watching the sun set before you. The silence was not uncomfortable, but as Dukat held you in his arms you felt more relaxed now than you had all week. The tension was gone from your body, and the feel of him running his hand up and down your back made you feel so safe. 

"I love you, Dukat,"you whispered, earning a hum from the Gul.

"I love you too, my star. Thank you for taking that break."

You weren't one for regrets, and most certainly you did not regret taking that break.

[writingsfromstarfleet]

Heyo! Can I request Captain Picard realizing he's fallen for the reader and what he does about it? 👀 💜

posted!x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[Jean-Luc Picard] - Within Stars

♫ - Hey There Delilah - Plain White T's

A/N: This ones so different from how I would usually write, but I actually love it? I don't know, I think it went really well. I hope you all enjoy, thank you for reading! <3

As he sat at his desk, Captain Picard turned in his chair to gaze outwards towards the stars. As his ship navigated the system, the hum of her warp core resounding through her halls, Jean-Luc had time to ponder his life currently.

Jean-Luc felt grateful that he was in command of the Enterprise. He was thankful that Starfleet had enough trust in him to captain the vessel on her mission, and to entrust him with the safety and protection of the best crew he could ask for. In his time, he had seen so much. War, death and peace treaties broken. But, on the other side, he had also seen the birth of nations and witnessed harmony between feuding races, not to mention the relationships he had formed with his crew.

With William Riker, he had found a friend and someone he most certainly would trust with his own life. He could be rash and bold, but those were qualities that made a good XO, and an even better Starfleet officer. Jean-Luc trusted Will with so much, and he was happy to have him by his side.

With Data, he had found a curious soul. Someone who he knew looked up to him, and so Jean-Luc had told himself that he always would be as open and protective of Data as he could. The android had so much respect for the captain, it was hard not to feel as though he was in someway, almost like a son. Data was one of the most gifted officers Picard had ever seen, Starfleet or otherwise, and he knew for a fact how lucky he was that Data was stationed on his ship.

With Worf, Deanna, Beverly Geordi, he had found a mismatched set of people, with completely different backgrounds. And yet, despite that, they had all become a family of their own. The captain reminisced with a small chuckle at how little they knew of each other on their first days, and how quiet the ship was before. Not many conversations outside of work-related topics happened, and even then it was only when necessary. But now, this whole crew laughed and chatted as though they had known each other forever.

Jean-Luc felt that was his proudest achievement.

Then, there was you.

Picard had not forgotten you. How could he? You had a special place in his mind and his heart, but what it was he was not sure. You were a Lieutenant, and a hardworking one at that. Around the crew, you were a ray of sunshine, always making people smile or laugh whenever you were around. Even Data had taken to you, and often you both could be found having a drink in Ten Forward, discussing some very random topics.

Jean-Luc smiled at the thought. He was too proud to ever ask you for a drink, or to discuss literature with him. In his mind, Picard thought that the difference in rank may make things uncomfortable or improper, especially when it came to the next shift. He was well aware that many captains before him, and no doubt after him, had done such things, but for some reason he felt it wouldn't be right. Still, he pondered perhaps asking you the next time he saw you.

You.

Jean-Luc always smiled at the thought of you. His mind ran away with the images in his head, the ones where you are doing the most mundane things. Sitting there in the mess hall reading away at research for the science labs. Enjoying some time in Ten Forward, often drawing. Or the times you were simply walking from place one to two. All those times Picard had seen you, and he thought each time you were beautiful.

Occasionally, he would catch you in one of the study halls, where he often came to relax because it was quiet. You would greet him with kind eyes and a warm smile. Oh, that smile. It was etched into his mind as though carved from stone. When you smiled, your whole face lit up like you were made of the stars themselves. To him, that was art. Those times, you would invite him to sit with you where the conversation would evolve to the pair of you getting lost in discussion of the classics. Often, he would talk of Shakespeare and you would introduce him to some new alien works you had found.

It was rare to find you not chirpy and upbeat. That was not to say it didn't happen, and Picard thought back to the most prominent incident he had remembered.

An away mission had gone awry and you were stranded on the planet below, accompanied by Data and Will. A safety blanket, you knew that you were protected down there with them. But, it was tough and the three of you had almost died. Beaming back onto the ship, Picard was waiting in the transporter room for you all, when you fell into his arms.

Will had seen the wreck you were in, and assured Picard that if he wished to tend to you, he could handle everything else. Not one to abandon his duties, Jean-Luc was about to argue when he caught sight of Will's face, a look that said to him not to argue.

Jean-Luc held you up, and you limped with him back to your quarters. He could tell you were not your usual self in that moment. It was understandable, those kind of experiences would rattle even the most seasoned officers, something he had noticed even in Will. But, you were not used to those kinds of situations, and he knew that you probably needed someone with you.

Sitting you on your bed, Jean-Luc grabbed a towel and some water from your bathroom and sat down besides you, taking in your form for the first time since you arrived back. You looked awful. Not unkindly, mind you. He still thought you looked beautiful. But, you looked exhausted, and had quite clearly been through some things. Your eyes were not sparkling as they once were and your face showed no sign of that smile he had come to adore.

As he took the towel to your face and started to clean the dirt and blood away, you placed your hand on his knee and squeezed lightly. The captain noticed a tear fall from your eyes, and he sighed. The last thing he wanted was you to be unhappy. Your head fell onto his chest and tears had begun to fall fast. The stress of that mission had taken its toll, and you could hold back no longer. Whispering his name, your whole body shook.

Jean-Luc's heart hurt for you. He wanted to chase it all away, to make you forget what had happened. He leaned back carefully, pulling you close into him and wrapping his arms around your body. You sunk in, and he rested his cheek on the top of your head. Picard began to talk, telling you things would be okay and comforting you to the best of his ability. Slowly, your tears stopped falling and your breathing had regulated. You were calm once more, and Jean-Luc's mind relaxed a little.

As you both lay there, Picard was aware of the proximity, and he had not expected to be lying in your quarters with you in his arms under any circumstance. However, he had tried to tell himself that it was him doing his duty as a captain for one of his crew. He knew he was lying, but he didn't care. You were his top priority, and that was what mattered.

Soon, your breathing had gone shallow and your body had gotten a little heavier. Jean-Luc knew you were asleep. Something in him told him to stay. So, he did. He stayed until he had fallen asleep himself, content with the knowledge that you were safe and cared for, and finally at ease.

Thinking back to all these memories, the good and the bad, Jean-Luc found himself idly fiddling with his ring finger and his eyes had widened.

That's when it clicked in him.

Jean-Luc Picard loved you.

The captain sat upright, his eyes still fixed onto the stars outside as thoughts ran amok in his head about his new realization. It made sense now.

Each fleeting glance, each pining thought in his spare time. You were not like any other crew member to him. He finally understood all the protective feelings, the heartache when you cried and the joy when you laughed. That feeling that ran through his soul when he heard you talk.

Jean-Luc Picard was completely, truly and incandescently in love with you.

What would he do about it? In due course, he was not sure. But for now he was content in the knowledge that it was love, and his heart was full. With that, the Captain sat back in his chair and his eyes gazed out once more onto the stars, his mind at ease and a newfound eagerness for the next day to come.

[writingsfromstarfleet]

I'm so glad you're taking requests again!

Could I request a reader insert where the reader had never seen a Vulcan before and starts off a little frightened of Spock, but he thinks they're fascinating and they end up being friends, please? 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

posted!x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[TOS] Spock - Strange Friendships

♫ - Malibu - Miley Cyrus

Admittedly, your exposure to aliens was rather limited. Despite being at Starfleet, your studies mostly wound you up in libraries and hunched over data pads. Very little of your time was spent around other people.

When you were assigned to the Enterprise, you were leading a study in the science labs, reporting to Commander Spock. You weren't scared, per say, but more nervous around him. From what little you knew of Vulcans and what small meeting you had with Spock before, it was quite well known that he was, for the most part, stoic and serious. Not someone you probably could joke with. 

"Lieutenant," Spock called, and you jumped a little before spinning round. This was not an uncommon occurrence, as often his presence made you a little unnerved. "I would like to thank you for turning in your research early, it is appreciated and your hard work has not gone unnoticed."

"Oh, I- well," you stammered, looking for the right words to say. "Thank you, sir. I hope my research aids the studies quicker than first thought."

Dare you say you saw amusement in his eyes?

"Indeed, it will. Perhaps, if you are not busy, we could meet at 19:00 and discuss the topic more? I believe you will be off-duty by that time."

Your brain couldn't function. Did Spock just ask you to dinner? No, stop thinking like that, you told yourself. It's a one-off, just a chat about the experiments, nothing more.

"I would like that, I will see you then."

That became a common thing, it was not a one-off. Every couple of days, yourself and Spock dined together, or at least spent some time together, and ended up talking about a little more than just what was happening down in the science department. 

Conversation had twisted and turned in many ways, and before long you had both opened up about your lives before being stationed on this ship. You told him of your upbringing and he told you of life on Vulcan. He expressed his interests and hobbies and you responded in kind. Weirdly enough, it felt like you had always been friends. 

"Perhaps I could listen to you play one day," you'd said, after Spock had told you about his love of playing the Vulcan harp.

"That would be nice, Lieutenant. I believe I would enjoy that very much," Spock had replied.

There were times where you felt uncertain, or where your mental health had wobbled and you needed support. Spock was there for you, each and every time, to catch your tears and even hold you until things had died down. Doctor McCoy had always marveled at why you called on a Vulcan for emotional help, and couldn't understand when you explained how comfortable you felt with Spock in those moments. 

"I just don't get it, there's humans a plenty on this ship," the doctor spoke, bemusedly. "Why not one of us?"

"Because," you began, partially exasperated from having to explain yourself again. "He may be a Vulcan, Leonard, but he cares. I feel heard when I speak to him, and I know that he won't harbour my worries or fears as his own."

With a humph, Bones would walk away, leaving you to laugh to yourself idly. 

Doctor McCoy's words always left you pondering, though. You did think it was quite funny how a Vulcan could be your closest emotional companion, especially one of your higher ups. But, the universe worked in incredibly strange ways, and it had thrown the two of you together for whatever reason. 

Over tea that night, you both spoke about your friendship. 

"I remember when we first met, Spock. I was frightened of you to begin with. I never thought I would be sat here now, sipping tea and reading together."

He raised a brow. "Frightened of me?"

Your eyes had widened, realising how that had sounded. "Oh, no! Not like that. I guess I just hadn't been exposed to Vulcans at all, but after having had many of these meals with you, I can see my original opinions were way out of bounds. Thank you for being around Spock, you're a good friend to me."

For a second, you could have sworn you saw a smile flash across his face.

"I am glad we are friends too, thank you for trusting me."

Spock was the most unlikely of friends found in the most unlikely of places, but to you that wasn't an issue. 

A friend is a friend, however random, and that was all that mattered.

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[Julian Bashir] All This Time

♫ - Always Been You - Shawn Mendez

A/N: Hello! I'm finally back and working on the requests in my inbox! If anyone is still here to read this, please enjoy! I thought I'd start with someone I love, and so this fic was born. Thanks for reading! - Mal <3

When you had joined Starfleet, you were hoping to be stationed on Deep Space Nine. You had gone through the Academy with your friend, Julian, and he had been assigned to the station as the resident doctor. You were so happy for him, this was all he had wanted. You were even more so when you learned that you had been accepted onto the station as a science officer yourself.

"Julian!" you called out, running to him with your PADD in your hand.

"Do I detect good news?" he replied, and when you nodded and tilted your screen to him, he burst into a light scream and picked you up, turning you around in the air. "My gosh, I am so happy for you! For both of us."

That night you both celebrated, perhaps a little too hard, but it was one of the best nights of both of your lives.

The morning of your departure, you took some time to think about your time on Earth, and growing up with Julian.

It was strange, you had watched him go from this quiet, barely academic child to somehow being incredibly gifted and beyond smart enough for his age. It wasn't until you were older that he confided in you that he had been genetically enhanced. It changed your opinion of him none, he was still your Julian. His parents and yours had hoped that maybe you two may have married, as they thought highly of you both. Julian had insisted it wasn't like that, and you had agreed, despite your feeling for it otherwise.

Julian was a great man, he was strong and caring, and he was handsome. You would be a fool to deny it. Over time, more as you grew older, you realised that it was no longer friendship you felt for him. It had been love for so long. You knew he viewed you as a best friend, and you were not about to ruin that; especially not on your final day on Earth.

Now, you were almost three years into being on Deep Space Nine, and the job had yet to get boring. There was always something happening, whether it be a planet in need of saving or stopping another impending war. Sometimes, even Gul Dukat would grace the station with his presence, which gave you all something to laugh at in Quark's that night.

"Is this seat taken?" A cool, familiar voice asked you as you sat at a table in the back of Quarks, sipping on an Antarean brandy. Turning your head, you met the face of Jadzia Dax, someone who had quickly become a close friend of yours.

"Does it look taken?" you replied, a cheeky tone in your voice. Jadzia and yourself always joked, and you were happy to have someone to be that comfortable with. You couldn't lie to yourself that Jadzia was very attractive, and one hell of a flirt. So, half the time, you gave as good as you got.

"How have things been on the station lately?" she asked. Jadzia knew you had been a little stressed that week, as work had piled up high in the science department. You sighed, shaking your head.

As you began to talk to her, you told her everything that had gone wrong that week. In truth, very little had gone right. Still, she sat tentatively and listened to every word. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted someone staring.

Julian was sat a few tables behind, alone and sipping at a drink. It wasn't often he drank alone, but it had been a tough week for him, too. As well as the workload and a quite the few emergencies, he was dealing with a new wave of emotions that had completely drained him. As of late, Julian had come to realise that he loved you, more than a friend should love another friend. He was certain you didn't feel the same, but the hope he still had that perhaps you would feel the same was still there, however faded.

Julian sighed as he watched you and Jadzia talk. Jadzia was smiling, laughing at your jokes. She even had her arm around you from time to time, and Julian was sure she was closer in proximity to you than when she had originally sat down. Jadzia caught his eye and winked, before going back to your chatter. To say he was jealous was an understatement; if anyone outside looked in, you and Jadzia looked like a couple, and he couldn't help but feel that it should be him.

Perhaps it was his imagination, but he could swear after he had made eye contact with the trill, she was more touchy and giggly with you than at first. Maybe he was imagining it, maybe not. Either way, it made him feel a certain type of way inside. He knew. It was definitely jealousy.

"Well," Jadzia broke the conversation, standing and placing a hand on your shoulder. "I should be off, I have a lot I need to be doing. Thank you for the drink, hopefully we can do this again sometime."

With that, she winked at you and took off, leaving  you chuckling to yourself. Ever the flirt, she was. Jadzia ducked past Julian's table on her way out of the bar, leaning in to his hear and startling him out of staring down his glass.

"If I've made you jealous enough to finally act on your feelings, I would suggest going over there and kissing that Lieutenant now."

Julian's head shot up.

"How did you know how I'm feeling?"

Jadzia simply laughed. "We all know, except them."

Pointing a finger your direction, Jadzia sauntered away and Julian made his decision. Downing the last of his drink, he strolled over to your table and met you with his ever beaming smile.

"Hi," he started, seeming more nervous than he had ever been. "Is this seat taken?"

"Why does everyone keep asking me that?" you asked rhetorically with a giggle. Music to Julian's ears, was your laugh. "Please, sit down. I'm happy to see you."

The god doctor took a seat, and his fingers played idly with his glass. A glass of which he wasn't sure why he was still holding, given it was empty. Still, he pushed it away and turned to you. Julian's intent was to talk to you, to tell you how he felt, but he was stricken for a second looking your way.

In the light of Quark's Bar, or what little of it there was atop the balcony, your face was lit up in the most angelic light. Your eyes sparkled more than usual, and your hair framed your face perfectly. Backed by the windows showing the stars, you were the brightest thing in the room. Never had Julian seen such a picture, and it stirred something inside him. He knew it was now or never, and he feared that if he spoke, he wouldn't be able to convey what he wanted.

Noticing him staring, you raised a brow and waved your hand in front of Julian's face.

"Julian? Is everything-"

Cutting you off, Julian's lips connected with your own as he moved forward, his hand wrapping itself around your waist. Finally, he was kissing you. Without thinking, you closed your eyes and kissed him back, your arms wrapping around his neck. It was lucky you were in the darker part of the bar, the quiet and stifled noises coming from you both would surely have disturbed some.

Pulling back after what had felt like a lifetime, you opened your eyes first and they fell upon Julian's face, his eyes still partially closed and looking dazed. It was a kiss you had waited forever for.

"I-I, um.." Julian struggled to formulate a sentence, and you sat smiling at him, your hand resting on his shoulder. "I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me."

"Did you mean to do that?" you inquired, hoping that his answer was yes. The doctor nodded, eyes twinkling and sparkling with wonder. Nodding, you leaned in again and quickly pecked his lips. Julian's mind was in overdrive.

"Finally," you whispered, placing your forehead against his own. 

Julian held you, his arms around your waist and his head resting on your shoulder. You ran one hand through his hair, the other holding him tight. This was an action that was not uncommon for you both, but now it felt different. Now it felt right. 

"I have loved you for so long," Julian started, remaining where he was. "I haven't been able to tell you because I haven't had the words, but I was worried you wouldn't feel the same. I see so many people around you who you could choose, and I figured I was just the best friend who got to hear about it all."

"Oh, Juli," you chuckled a little, not unkindly. "You listen to me. I have been aware of who flirts with me, and I will admit there are some rather beautiful people on this station. But, none of them are you. I fell for you heart and soul so long ago that anyone else is secondary. I care not for the advances of anyone else, your heart is all I want."

"My heart is exactly what you have."

Julian glanced up at you, lovesick eyes peering into your own. The night was spent together, doing all of the things you should have been doing and being so engrossed in each other that you had no real bearing for those around you. If you had, you would have noticed Quark on the other side of the bar, handing over a few bars of latinum to a certain smug trill.

"Well I'll be damned," Quark said, shaking his head. "I really thought they would be oblivious for the rest of their lives."

"Never doubt my tactics, Quark," Jadzia replied, chuckling. 

[writingsfromstarfleet]

Hello!

It has been a while, is anyone even still active here?

Regardless, hello! I'm back writing again and I am finally working through the stockpile in my inbox as we speak, so hopefully I should be back to a semi regular posting schedule.

Life got massively in the way and so much happened that I couldn't even think of writing, but now I am back to it and fingers crossed it continues.

Thank you all for reading everything, I see notifications every day for this blog, it's crazy that my work is still being read and enjoyed. More to come soon! (Julian fic tonight!)

I hope you have all been taking care of yourselves. Much love!!

-Mal!x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

Hello! I hope you are doing well. I have a question: when requests are open again, do you write for Captain Pike (Anson Mount)?

Hello!

I’m doing good, I hope you are too!

I do write for him, I write for pretty much anyone you can think of, so I’ll gladly write for Pike (I love Anson so much!)

Drop it to me whenever you’d like, I’ll write it eventually. Thank you!

Hugs! :) x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

You're a star ⭐

Okay so this is mega corn 🌽, but my idea, with whomever you choose, was that reader goes on a diplomatic away mission with a planet that they were hoping to get to aid from (or join the federation, whatever works).

The planet respects peace and love above all else, and at first negotiations do not go to plan. Until reader realizes that all of the planets delegates are paired up.

They get the idea to be pretend to be dating the Star Trek person of your choosing. In my mind the away lasts about a week and there's various 'fake dating' scenarios that pop up (awkward hand holding, kisses on the cheek, ya know, the usual of the genre).

The mission ends in a success and leads to your chosen person saying maybe they'd like to try out the real thing!

Sorry for the novel Mal and hope you enjoy 🌌

posted!:)x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[Chakotay] Everyone But You

♫ - Hands To Myself - Selena Gomez

"You two are the best officers I have, so I need you for this mission."

Captain Janeway's words were clear as day, and she was quick to tell you exactly what she thought. A diplomatic mission was at the hands of the USS Voyager, and she needed two people who were friendly and could be trusted to handle the assignment with care, whilst still gathering whatever information needed in a timely manner. 

"You're sure we're your best choice?" Chakotay's voice rang through the captain's ready room. With a curt nod, Chakotay nodded back. "Alright, looks like it's me and you."

"Looks like it's me and you. We won't let you down, Captain."

"I know."

Thinking as you left Janeway's ready room, a small part of you was excited, in a strange way, to be going off on this mission with Chakotay. Since you met him on the assignment, you had grown closer with him over time. From casual drinks in the evenings, or holodeck experiences together, you made the most of what downtime you had when things in space weren't trying to kill you all. Chakotay had even been kind enough to help you learn to meditate as he did when you had a bit of a down swing. Your bond was closer than you thought possible, and this was a blessing in a way; you could have been stuck with Tom. 

Geared up and ready to head to the planets surface, you met Chakotay at the shuttle bay ready to depart. 

"You remember the mission, right?" he joked, and you hit him softly on the arm.

"Mission?" you replied. "What's one of those?"

"We do need to wrap this up in a week, so we have a week to set forward Starfleet's plans for help and convince the people being a part of the Federation isn't such a bad thing."

"It'll be difficult, but I trust you two," the Captain's voice rang out, and you turned to see a smiling Janeway. "Good luck, and don't kill each other by the end of it, will you?"

With a wave, she left the shuttle bay and went about her day, as you boarded the shuttle and departed. 

The trip was short, and not too many words were exchanged, save for those referencing flight paths and landing procedure. The planet's surface was in full view, so many swirled variations of blue and white, cobalt and sapphire rings encasing the world within it. The cloud cover created a fine smoke from a distance, and the planet radiate light in a sphere that made it look almost magical. 

"Beautiful, no?" Chakotay asked, smiling at you. "Not all planet's are as boring as Earth."

You chuckled. "You can say that again."

After docking and landing had been cleared and your feet were on the surface, you marveled at how clean and fresh the air was, and how bright and happy the planet was on foot. It was just as beautiful as it was in the air. A man dressed in flowing robes greeted you with a smile, and began explaining everything to you as you walked to your accommodation.

In the middle of the walk, your eyes darted around you, and you saw nearly everyone passing by was, in some form, connected. Some held hands, some held each other by the arm, but everyone was touching. Feeling awkward as eyes fell upon you both, you were quick to grab Chakotay's hand, to which he shot his attention to you.

"Is everything alright?" he asked, concerned.

"It's fine, it's just everyone seems to be holding hands or what not, so I thought maybe we should do the same. I'm sorry if it stepped a line, Commander."

He shook his head and smiled. "Don't worry."

Chakotay's hand never left yours until you were behind closed doors, either. You were thankful for him, that could have been so much more awkward with anyone else. 

The week flew by, but not with the occasional tricky situation. From having to act like a couple over dinner, to a kiss on the cheek in front of other diplomats, it had been one week of strange feelings. It had, however, made you realise one thing; you wanted more than friendship with Chakotay. 

It made Chakotay realise something too; the exact same thing with you.

The last day had arrived, and you were departing in the evening, so you thought a drink might be in order, considering the successful negotiations with the planet's higher ups. The stress was gone, and it was both your time's to relax before heading back to Voyager. 

"It's been one hell of a week, Y/N," he chuckled, sitting forward and taking a sip of his drink.

"You can say that again," you laughed back. Chakotay raised an eyebrow,

"It's been one hell of a week, Y/N."

As you went to swat him, Chakotay laughed and caught your hand, pulling you closer to him. He kissed your cheek, and you felt a little different from the past times he had done it.

"Chakotay! You don't have to do that now, nobody is looking anymore, we don't have to pretend."

"Oh, I know," he smirked. "I'm not pretending, Y/N, don't worry."

"You meant that one?" Your voice was soft, confused slightly. But, more than anything, you were curious. Did he feel the same way?

"I meant them all, but that one especially. I've come to like you a lot, and if you'll agree, I would like to continue this after we leave."

You stared into his eyes, those eyes you fell for so long ago, and took his hand. Pressing a kiss to his lips, you all but confirmed that for him.

"As if I would say no."

Now back on the ship, you were greeted by Tom and Harry, who said the captain wished to see you once you were back. Making some haste, you arrived outside her ready room and rang. Janeway answered, and you were invited in.

"Commander, Lieutenant," Janeway nodded, and you both smiled at her. "I hear there was success, so thank you.  You have done us all a great favour. Thank you for being professional and handling this with the dignity and prowess Starfleet expects of you."

"It was our pleasure, Captain," Chakotay answered, and you agreed.

"That it most certainly was."

"That will be all, at least from you, Commander. I'm glad you're both safe. Y/N, a word?" Janeway let no clue with her tone as to what she was about to say, and you were a little nervous. Chakotay dismissed himself, but you stayed seated.

"Have I done something wrong, Captain?" your voice shook a little, nerves coming up.

She smiled, that comforting Janeway smile everyone got. "Not at all, Y/N. I was just checking everything was okay for you? The company and what not?"

"More than okay, Captain. Thank you for choosing the two of us to go, I feel honoured."

Janeway chuckled. "Oh, I wasn't going to send anyone else. I thought that was the perfect mission for you both."

"What do you-" you started, but stopped when she raised a brow and smirked at you. She knew exactly what she was doing when she sent you both down there. "You knew how I felt?"

"We all did. The only ones who didn't were you and Commander Chakotay himself," she was laughing wholeheartedly now, and you shook your head and joined in.

"Just be good to one another, you are both perfectly suited. Now go and get sorted and relax, I'll see you later. Dismissed."

"Thank you, Captain." You smiled.

"Don't thank me, it was more than worth it. And if this doesn't work, Y/N, I'll send you on the next one with Harry."

With that, Janeway winked and closed her door, leaving you laughing and thankful for such a wonderful Captain and crew as the ones on Voyager.

[writingsfromstarfleet]

I noticed you have no Worf writings on your page!!! Would you mind if I make a request to fix that? 🤗

Reader is an engineer who has done a few away missions with Worf and likes how manly and sure of himself he is but is unsure of how to approach him as they do not understand the the Klingon culture. When they talk to their friend Data about it to ask for a little info on the Klingons and Worf they realise that he's been showing signs he was interested all along and they just never picked up on it.

Ends with reader hinting at Worf of a very enlightening conversation they had with Data and them asking him on a date and him eagerly agreeing 🥰

MUCH LOVE 🖖🏻🖖🏻🖖🏻

posted!:)x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[Worf] All Along

♫ Thousand Years - Christina Perri

Klingon culture has long since been recognised as one of the most violent cultures to the outside. In every aspect, it seemed some form of shouting or fighting was at the heart of everything they did. To outsiders, perhaps it seemed that way. There was always a softer side to Klingons, however, one not many people saw in some. 

On away missions, it was handy to have a Klingon with you, and Worf was the perfect one to go along. He was knowledgeable and cautious, and always willing to protect should danger occur. However, he could fight too, far better than anyone you had ever seen. His skill in battle and in leadership made for a great away team leader.

His leadership and skill was also the reason you started having feelings for him, and that made you very uncertain. You were a human, and he was a Klingon. Interspecies romance was not uncommon, particularly now in the universe where infinite diversity in infinite combination was at the heart of most of the galaxy. But, you weren't sure of how Worf would react. He hadn't shown any interest in anyone, let alone yourself, and it left you wondering just how awkward these feeling were about to make the rest of your engineering career.

"Lieutenant Y/N? Are you alright?" A voice snapped you out of your daydream in Ten Forward, your drink long since watered down as the ice had melted. It was your friend, Data, and you shook your head at him.

"Yes, of course, thank you Data. Please, have a seat."

"Are you sure? You do not seem it. You have been staring at Lieutenant Commander Worf for five minutes. I am sure he will start becoming uncomfortable soon."

Your put your head in your hands and sighed. You hadn't even noticed you were looking right at his table the entire time you were zoned out. Laughing to yourself, you sipped your watery drink.

"Ahh, I didn't even know, I guess I'm hung up on a few things, Data. I can trust you, can't I?"

"Absolutely." He nodded and seated himself, sitting curt as always, ready to listen.

"Somethings changed between Worf and I these past couple of weeks. We started off merely away team companions, and it was fine that way, but now I feel like I want to know him better, even court him, as it were. But, I wouldn't even know where to start with that. I mean, just last week, he was reciting a poem he wrote to me before we said goodnight after a shift."

"Perhaps you should try throwing a vase at him, Y/N."

Your eyebrows shot up, utter confusion on your face.

"I.. I- huh?"

"Allow me to explain. When Lieutenant Commander Worf was reciting his poetry to you, he was expressing an interest in courting you. When Klingons find someone of which they would like to court or marry, one recites poetry whilst the other expresses interest in a violent manner, such as scratching, fighting or throwing things at them. This way, the intentions are clear for both parties."

You stared at Data, dumbfounded. "That is in no way, shape or form, clear. But, that is interesting to know, thank you."

Data stood, nodding. "Should you need me, I will be in the science bay. Good luck with that, Y/N."

As he left, you were left with much to ponder, and your eyes drifted over to where Worf was sat, and as you did so, his eyes met yours too. You smiled and nodded, and he nodded all the same. You noticed him leaving, and quickly jumped up to do the same. 

"Hello, Worf, uh.. would you care to meet me tonight in my quarters? I have some music I wish to show you, I think you would be interested. It's okay if not, I-"

"I will be there, your company sounds desirable. Until then, Lieutenant." And with that, he hastily made his way back to work.

The night rolled round and you were in your quarters, pacing. Nerves weren't your sort of vibe, and being a Starfleet officer meant they were pushed back on the job. But tonight, you were making up for all of that by experiencing every bit of nerves you could at the exact same time. The door chimed and your heart jumped, but you opened the door nonetheless. 

"Good evening, Worf, thank you for coming." Your voice was shaky, the uncertainty jumping right out. Worf wasn't fazed, and strolled in, awaiting the music.

"Good evening, Y/N, thank you for inviting me for the music display, I am looking forward to it."

A solitary voice in your head comes out. 'Ahh, fuck it.' 

As Worf turns to find a seat, you pick up the vase closest to you, one that stood on your tableside, and launched it in his direction, and it smashed right by his feet. As the security officer turned, you jumped at him and started to fight him. Worf swiftly changed the playing field and switched you around, and you dodged his attacks with surprising ease. The fight grew more tense as the two of you made it to your feet, his batleth out and you defending with a stick. Nimble and small, you manage to swoop round and trick him every now and then, and when he thought he had you, your legs took his out and you knelt down over him, sitting on his stomach almost, with your phaser at his neck.

"Y/N... that was incredible." Worf was slightly out of breath, but did still sound impressed. 

"Likewise, I hope Data was right about this," you started to look nervous, as you helped Worf up from the ground, a hand he graciously accepted.��

"Right about the vase?"

"Yeah, he-" you stopped. He knew? "How do you know about the vase?"

"I told him to tell you about a vase. I had a feeling you were interested in me, as you humans might say, and so I knew that if you were, you would go to him for advice because you are very good friends. The vase was rather specific, so I realised the moment you threw that at me tonight you had an interest in me."

"That was a very intelligent move, Worf. How did you know?" you inquired, puzzle on your face. You couldn't believe this was happening, no more than you could believe that Data had been playing cupid and wingman for Worf. 

"I can sense it, Y/N. You look at me differently, and when you are around me, you act different, too. It is not hard to tell."

You raised an eyebrow. "Am I that obious?"

Worf sighed. "No, Councellor Troi told me."

You laughed aloud, shaking your head. "And here I was, thinking you knew all along."

"I knew I was interested in you," he started, taking your hand and sitting you down with him on your chair. "But I did not think you would be interested in me."

"Why wouldn't I be? You're sure of yourself, strong, and you're great company. Gathering feelings for you was easy, dealing with them was the hard part, and the outcome has been the best."

You shot Worf a a smile, and he gave you one back, to the best of Klingon ability. He brought your hand to his head, pressing his lips against your hand. 

"Will you have me, Y/N?"

"I've wanted you all along."

[writingsfromstarfleet]

Love your writing! What have you got currently waiting in your requests ?

This was so long ago, my apologies!

But, I have:

(TNG) Worf, (VOY) Chakotay, (TNG) Beverly Crusher, (TNG) Jean-Luc Picard, (TNG) Data, (TNG) Q, (TOS) Leonard McCoy, (TNG) Q, (ENT) Tholos, (TNG) Q, (TNG) Q, (ENT) Malcolm, (ENT) Yuris, (ENT) Mestral, (TNG) Q, (DS9) Damar.

All in that order. If you're still here and you want someone different, feel free! I'll get there eventually! :)

Hugs! - Mal :) x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

Hello! I hope you had a good day! If possible, could you please write an AOS Star Trek one shot where the reader is Jim's younger sister and Spock slowly falls in love with her. All Jim wants is for his little sisters to be happy and if it's with Spock, then he's okay with it. Thank you so much!

posted!:)x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[Spock] The Other Kirk

♫ - Spring Day - BTS

A/N: Hello! I think I've written something similar before, honestly I don't remember, but if anyone is still reading these or is still here, enjoy! Hugs! x

for @lovinghufflepuffgirl <3

fem! pronouns (she/her) :)

Growing up, Iowa was life in the fast lane, and things were always constantly moving. The Kirk's were a well-known family, whether it was for your father, Lieutenant George Kirk, and his work in Starfleet, or it was your brother, Jim Kirk, and his truanting and general misbehaviour. America was entirely different to space, and you quickly found that out on your first assignment in Starfleet. 

Life on the Enterprise was definitely different to normal life. There were people of different races, species, genders; you name it, it was here. All beings from outer space worked together towards one common goal and it was a close community aboard the ship. You yourself, were human. From Riverside, Iowa on Earth, you were the sister of the Captain, and that didn't really make life too simple. 

Despite the difference, your brother stuck up for you no matter what, whether it was earth or the academy, it didn't matter. You were his pride and joy, and he would protect you with his life. 

By nature, your brother Jim was loud, obnoxious and confident. There never really was anything he wouldn't do, the man had confidence built from steel. You guessed that's what came from being the Captain. You were the polar opposite of him. Quiet as a whole, you kept your books and studies to yourself, always picking a small, closed off corner of the mess hall to sit in. Most people talked to you in relation to your brother, never really anything else. But, you weren't too offended. 

There was always someone a little different, though; Spock.

Your brothers first officer, Spock was always by his side, or on the bridge as acting captain. But, on the semi-rare occasion he wasn't, Spock tended to join you in the corner without much being said between you. In a way, you quite enjoyed it. It was a mutual understanding; you knew he didn't always favour talking, and so a simple smile and a nod of acknowledgement before you both delved back to your datapads and meals, was enough.

This pattern developed over time, and you found yourself sat with him more and more. Conversations started to naturally come between you, and before long, you were learning more and more about him, as he was you. One day, was different, it was still the same old routine, but the conversation was different.

"Good evening, Y/N," Spock started, placing his pad and drink down on the table. "How are you doing?"

"Hi Spock, I'm doing well, thank you, I'm a little stressed out over this, but other than that, it's good." Spock saw your face, brows furrowed but still trying to maintain your usual polite smile. "How are you?"

"I am well, thank you. Perhaps I can help you with that." 

Spock spun his pad round and sat down next to you for the first time. Usually, he was less personal and more formal, tending to always sit across from you. But this time, Spock chose the seat next to you instead. You suddenly felt nervous, though you had no real reason to be. Spock took your pad from you, fingers brushing delicately across your own for a second. Though it was only that second, the feeling lingered for a while. Spock stared at you for a moment, and quickly diverted his eyes down. If you hadn't known any better, you'd say his cheeks went a little red. 

"What is it you need help with?" he asked, voice low.

"I just don't understand any of it, I'm trying my best but I can't make sense of what feels like a thousand pages of writing." 

Spock sat with you for nearly two hours, explaining and writing and helping you where he could. It felt like he had been there all night, and as he spoke and talked you through everything paragraph by paragraph, eventually, it started to sink in and you began to understand. Even being Vulcan, Spock could not hide the pride on his face and a small smile after you explained the study back to him. 

"Well done, Y/N, I am impressed." His voice was different, and it sounded happy. His tone and smile told you that.

"You're smiling, you must be proud," you laughed out, and quickly got nervous again. "I, uh, didn't mean it like that if I offended you or-"

"Do not worry, I am proud. You have managed to learn something you did not know. That is an achievement and you should be proud too."

"I couldn't have done it without you, thank you," you replied, not really too sure where to look. You became sheepish, something you had not been much around Spock for quite some time. Whether it was the closeness, or the care from him, you weren't sure. 

"It has been an enjoyable two hours, I would like to do this again sometime," Spock seemed a little cautious, taking a breath before continuing. "Perhaps, without the studying."

He took you aback a little, before it fully clicked he was asking you on a date. 

"I would quite like that, Spock."

The day came to a close as he walked you back to your room before bidding you a goodnight. 

The morning came and you were up bright and early for your shift. As you finished getting dressed and tied your hair up, your comms system rang out.

"Lieutenant Y/N to the Captain's ready room."

With confusion and slight concern, you made your way to Jim's room with haste, not wanting to upset him in case he was in a bad mood or you had done something wrong. Reaching the room, you didn't even have to knock before the door swung open. You stepped inside, and  your brother sat with a face like thunder. 

"Captain? Or Jim today?" you asked, in the same joking manner as usual. 

"Spock?" he replied. 

"Weird choice of name, but who am I to judge?" you replied, shrugging. 

"Not funny."

"Never claimed to be, you've always been the clown. What's up with you?"

Jim raised an eyebrow, very clearly unimpressed.

"When were you going to tell me you were dating my first officer?"

You couldn't help but laugh. "What? I'm not dating Spock, relax. We just eat together and we're going on a date later this week, but I would love to know who told you that, because they found out before I did and that's one hell of a talent."

"Y/N, seriously. Have you thought about this?" You furrowed your brow, nodding him to elaborate. "This is Spock, he's a Vulcan, which means emotions are not his specialist subject."

"You'd be surprised, Jim. Why do you care so much anyway? He's your XO, you trust him don't you? He wouldn't hurt me, if that's what you're worried about. Give me one good reason why I shouldn't try this out and I won't go this weekend."

Jim stared at you, trying to summon any semblance of an answer for that, but realised he didn't actually have a legitimate reason to stop you. He did trust Spock, and he would trust Spock to keep you safe like he does, and to care for you. There was nothing really he could do to stop this, nor was there any reason he could see.

Sighing, he shook his head. "You're right. I just worry for you, you know? You're all I got, and-"

You cut him off with a hug. His grip tightened and you buried yourself into his shoulder. Pulling back, you smiled at him. 

"Don't worry, I love you too. I won't get myself killed, but if I do, he's all yours."

Jim laughed, and you joined in, grabbing your drink and heading towards the door. 

"Plus, it was Spock or Bones, so take your pick where you want."

"Y/N!"

With that, you closed the door over a little, laughing to yourself. From around the corner, you saw Spock, who raised his brow.

"Spock and Bones? What about us?"

You shrugged. "Nothing important, but if you go in there I'm sure you'll find out."

Spock cocked his head in curiosity, and you smiled.

"You look adorable like that, by the way." You leaned in and kissed his cheek, and swore you saw that blush red on his cheeks. "See you later."

As you walked away, Spock stood for a second, and touched his cheek where you left that kiss, and very faintly from behind the door came a voice that snapped him out of it.

"What the hell!"

[writingsfromstarfleet]

Mal! Happy Star Trek day 🖖🏻

Can I please get a Will Riker x reader where they have bridge crew shift (but are not a commander) and whenever it comes to picking away team for missions Riker never picks the reader. They barely talk other than Riker giving instructions and feedback on tasks.

Reader eventually plucks up courage to confront him about it and he admits he has a crush on them and didn't want to act on it, and didn't put them on missions because he didn't want them to get hurt.

Thank you as always for using your time to write these for everyone. I appreciate you 💖

posted!x

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[William Riker] Hurt

♫ - Valentine - Laufey

A/N: For the lovely @too-many-baes​, who’s forever brilliant and very patient. I appreciate you all loads, enjoy!! Hugs! - Mal x

Bridge shifts were not easy, in fact they were far from it. Working on the bridge meant being in the direct eye of the captain, and not only the captain, but the Commander. They could see your every move and your every mistake, not to mention the fact that you were hopelessly in love with the first officer.

Commander Riker was something else, and it felt more than a crush to you. There was something about him that just stood out to you, and drew you in. But, you knew that not being a senior officer meant there was nearly no chance of him feeling the same, and you were certain he had feelings for the Councillor still.

Away missions were always your go to, and you loved being able to explore the lands and planets below you. Excitement built up in you for one mission specifically, one where you would be able to see the rock formations and plant life of a civilization you knew nothing about. But, when it came to choosing people for the mission, you weren't picked. You never were.

"Excuse me, sir," you stopped Will and pulled his sleeve ever so slightly. "I was wondering why you chose Ensign Cody over me, sir? I'm more qualified in this field of study than them."

"That may be so, Y/N, however I asked for Cody."

"But why?"

Your question went unanswered, and he walked off with the away team for their mission. Huffing, you made your way to Ten Forward for some therapy with Guinan. She always did make you feel better.

Your time in the bar was short lived, as there was an emergency happening with the team down on the surface. Racing back to the bridge, you had hoped nothing happened to Will, or any of them. Your fears came true, however, and the captain ordered you and Lieutenant Worf to the transporter room to help the team when they got back.

Commander Riker was in a bad state, having sustained injuries from phaser fire and some burns on his hands. Worf had carried him to medbay, where you offered to stay so Worf could resume his duties, being more of a capable bridge officer than yourself.

"Will he be okay?"you asked Beverly, as she had finished tending to him after an agonizingly long amount of time waiting.

"He should be, would you like to stay with him to make sure, Y/N?"

You nodded, and her voice was sympathetic enough that you knew she would leave you be. Telling you she was in her office if needed, Beverly left you with Will to tend to him and look over him. Moving a small bit of his hair back into its usual style, you sighed and looked him over, hoping he would recover.

Hours had passed, and you had fallen asleep. Will stirred, glancing over at the dead weight besides him, and saw your head gently lay on the edge of his bed. A smile crept onto his face, and he moved a strand of hair back from your face. He was so distracted by you that he failed to notice the doctor on the other side of him.

"They've been here for about five hours, pretty much since you came in, Will. I don't know what they are to you, but it must be something special."

"It would seem, doc."

You woke, and Will was sat up drinking.

"Hello, sleepy head."

You shot to attention, having been embarrassed that you even fell asleep in the first place.

"Ah, sir, uh-" you started, not knowing where to look. "Sorry, I didn't mean to sleep, I brought you here to, well - Lieutenant Worf brought you here, but I stayed to check you were okay, I shouldn't have-"

"Sit down." Will's voice was light hearted, and he motioned for you to sit again. You did so, in shock. He hadn't really ever spoken to you properly, this was probably the first time he ever had done, more than just an assignment or work related things.

"I wanted to thank you," he began, that charming smile on his face. "For waiting with me and checking I was going to be okay. Doctor Crusher told me all about it."

"Ah, that's okay. I'm just doing what a good officer would do."

"But is it just that?"

You looked at him slightly wide eyed, and he stared back, almost knowingly, as though he knew you wanted to say something. Your hands came together and you twiddled your fingers between each other, a thing you always did when you were nervous.

"Why do you never pick me for away missions, sir?"

Will tilted his head to the side, wondering what you meant and encouraging you to continue.

"Well, I know that you chose Cody today, and I know that Cody is more than capable of that mission, but I was definitely more qualified. The geology aspect of it was literally my field of work entirely. My whole career is studying plant and rock families. It's not the first time, last mission you chose someone else, and the time before that. I just want to know why I'm-"

"Because I don't want you getting hurt."

You stopped dead in your tracks and train of thought, giving Will the time space to continue.

"I've liked you for quite some time, Y/N, but I never acted on it. Partly because I didn't think it was professional, but partly because I didn't think you might see me like that. I thought perhaps you might just see me as your commanding officer and nothing more, today proved different though. I know you're a Starfleet officer and every day you could get hurt, it's part of the job, but I didn't want you getting hurt if we could help it."

"I don't know what to say, Commander." You were too stunned to speak, and he smiled at you again and took your hand.

"Then don't say anything until 19:00 hours tomorrow in Ten Forward?"

Your eyebrow raised and you couldn't help the giggle that came from you, hearing his laugh only spurred it on.

"Smooth." Your voice was relaxed and playful, and he looked at you so differently. It was honest and loving, and pure.

"Is it a date then, Y/N?"

"It is, Will. It is."