Summary: This one takes place sometime after "Blood Fever" and 
"Displaced" and becomes AU.  During an on-board shore leave, Tom 
holds a movie marathon.  PG-13 for mild language and sexual 
references.

Note: This story is a tribute to that other great science fiction 
series, Star Wars.  I love 'em both dearly, but if you're not a 
Star Wars fan, you might not get everything in the story. Writing 
this, I assumed the reader was familiar enough with the series to 
be able to recognize key movie segments.  Although I enjoyed the 
way TPTB brought B'Elanna and Tom together, this is another way it 
could have happened.  Throughout the story, B'Elanna will express 
her opinions on the movies, and her thoughts basically reflect 
mine.  Archiving is fine as long as you let me know first 
(Zorb17@aol.com). The same goes for my other stories, "Dynamics" 
and "Back to Before."

Note on notation: Movie segments are set off by double 
asterisks(**). Thoughts are marked by single asterisks(*).

Disclaimer: Paramount owns the Star Trek stuff, and I think George 
Lucas owns the Star Wars stuff.  The title is taken from Weird Al 
Yankovic's song.  I got the movie text from various websites; if 
you catch an inaccurate line, please let me know.

The Saga Begins
by Zorb

Of course.  The one time I don't have a valid excuse, I'm late to 
a senior staff meeting.  Just my usual brand of luck.  I 
overslept, all right?  Luckily, the Captain didn't seem to mind as 
I rushed in and took the last seat, between Harry and Neelix, 
across from Tom.  Harry gave me a wink, the reward for my 
lateness.

After a few minutes, Janeway finished her conversation with Tuvok 
and asked for our reports.  There was a puckish twinkle in her 
eyes.  She was up to something.  "Commander Tuvok?"

"All weapons and tactical systems operational.  No recent security 
infractions."

"Ensign Kim?"

"Sensors at maximum efficiency.  We're traveling through a pretty 
dull area.  The only objects I've detected are a few ordinary 
nebulas, perfectly safe."  Harry sounded bored.  I knew how he 
felt.

"Lieutenant Paris?"

"The helm's at peak efficiency, Captain.  Not that there's 
anything to steer around..." Typical Tom, trying to bring humor to 
every situation.  I could tell that he, too, was bored and 
annoyed.

"Lieutenant Torres?"

"No problems, Captain.  Warp core is-" Oh, Kahless, I yawned!  In 
front of everyone!  To my credit, I recovered quickly, only 
blushing a little, I think.  That pig Tom was snickering, so I 
glared at him and continued.  "Sorry, I guess I'm a little tired.  
Warp core is running perfectly, and we have full system capacity.  
Everything's great," I added, trying and failing to make up for my 
yawn.

The Captain smiled.  "Knock on wood."  Huh?  I missed the joke, 
but Tom, Harry and Chakotay smiled.  Must have been a human thing.  
Janeway continued.  "How's sickbay, Doctor?"

Even the hologram seemed more sarcastic than usual.  "Your crew is 
in perfect health, Captain."  He looked right at me.  "Although I 
may need to administer an epinephrine supplement."  Reigning in my 
temper, I kept my eyes on the table.  I knew, just knew that if I 
looked up I'd see Paris's mocking grin directed at me.  I could 
practically feel his gaze.

"That won't be necessary, Doctor."  She paused, and her voice took 
more subtle tone.  "Mr. Neelix, how's morale?"

I looked at the Talaxian, thankful for something else to look at.  
Not that the view across from me was bad, but...

Neelix hesitated.  "Captain...the crew seems happy, but bored.  
And exhausted.  I've suggested another luau to some, but no one's 
really been excited about the idea.  I'm not sure what to do."

Chakotay spoke up.  "I've noticed the same behavior.  With 
everything working, they really don't have much to do."  Way to 
restate the obvious, Commander.

The Captain leaned forward.  *Here it comes,* I thought.

"Well, everything seems to be in order except the crew.  Neelix, I 
too have noticed the crew's lackluster attitude.  And what I've 
seen and heard today confirms it."  What was this, Pick on a 
Klingon Day?  Thankfully, I wasn't the only one trying to avoid 
the Captain's gaze.  "Normally, I'd give shore leave, but there 
are no suitable planets within a reasonable distance.  Mr. Kim, 
you say those nebulas are safe?"  He nodded, although I think she 
already knew the answer.  "Well then, I'm declaring an on-board 
leave.  We'll park the ship in the nearest nebula.  The crew will 
have minimal duty shifts, and maximal free time."  All negative 
thoughts I may have been directing at the Captain flew from my 
mind.  I felt a sudden urge to erect an altar to her and sacrifice 
a targ.  "Sound good?  Any objections?"  I object, Captain, I 
don't think we should be happy and well rested.  Press on, maximum 
warp, work 'em till they drop!

Nobody objected.

"All right then.  Mr. Paris, set a course for the nearest nebula 
and engage.  Commander, draw up new duty schedules, skeleton crews 
in short time slots.  I'll announce our change of plan to the 
crew.  Leave schedule starts as soon as we get there.  Dismissed."

We all rushed out, not even stopping to talk.  I think we figured 
the faster we went, the sooner we'd get there.  As I strode down 
the corridors, I got some weird looks.  I guess I had a goofy grin 
on my face or something.  But you know what?  I couldn't have 
cared less.
*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
Tom, Harry and I finally got to talk at lunch.  As usual, we 
decided to spend our free time together.

"But what if we have different duty shifts?" Harry worried.

"Don't worry about that, Starfleet.  I still have some pull with 
Chakotay.  I'll take care of it.  But what do you guys want to 
do?"

"Well," Harry replied, "I was thinking we could go on a bike-
riding tour of Europe.  You know, a different location each day.  
Or we could go sailing.  Or..."  Harry was obviously very proud of 
his ideas, and they sounded like fun, but my attention wandered.  
To the other person at our table.  Tom was listening to Harry with 
seeming interest -  "active listening," Chakotay would say - but I 
could tell his mind was elsewhere.  His forehead was wrinkled in 
that adorable way, just like when he's piloting the ship through a 
tricky area of space, and his eyes were far away.  I guess he must 
have felt my eyes on him, because he turned and looked straight at 
me.  God, he was handsome.  The tension between us was almost 
tangible.

I couldn't take it anymore.  I wrenched my gaze from Tom and said, 
"Um, Harry?  Your ideas sound like fun, but they're all...well, 
athletic.  Not that I have any problem with that, but I was 
thinking...maybe this time we could do something a little 
more...sedentary?"  Yeesh, I was flustered.

Tom grinned.  "I guess Sleeping Beauty here needs to catch up on 
naptime, hmm?"  Damn, I wished he hadn't brought that up.  If he 
weren't so cute I'd punch him.  I might punch him anyway.

He changed the subject, probably as a result of the murderous Look 
I was giving him.  "Actually, I agree. I'm pretty exhausted, too."  
That was an unexpected reply.  I relaxed my glare.  "Is that okay 
with you, Harry?"

"Sure.  What did you have in mind?"

"What makes you think I have something in mind?"

"You can't fool me, Tom.  I saw that look in your eyes.  Spill 
it."

True to form, Tom jumped at the invitation.  "I was thinking we 
could have a movie marathon.  The holodecks are going to be 
crammed full, so we could do it at, say, my quarters.  I'll rig up 
a 2D screen, we'll have snacks, talk, whatever.  An authentic 20th 
Century pastime.  Sort of."  He looked at us expectantly.

"Tom?" I ventured.  "Remind me again.  What's a movie?"

"Only the 20th Century's biggest form of entertainment.  They're 
like holofilms, but projected on a flat screen.  I know exactly 
which ones we'll watch, too.  It's a series of nine films that 
were begun in the 1970's and weren't complete until the early 21st 
Century.  It's called Star Wars."

Harry nodded.  "I've heard of them.  Science fiction, right?  
Sounds like fun.  All right, I'll come.  B'Elanna?"

Why not?  "Sure.  When should I get Chakotay to schedule our 
shifts?"

"In the morning," Tom replied.  "Oh, but not too early.  We'll 
need the extra sleep."  Seeing the blank looks Harry and I were 
giving him, he elaborated.  "I forgot to mention that this would 
be a sleepover.  You're still okay with it, right?"

"Of course," Harry the Cheerful answered.  "B'Elanna?"

Excuse me?  A sleepover?  Me spending several nights in his 
quarters.  Pajamas.  Embarrassing personal habits.  And they 
wanted to know if I was okay with that?  "Yeah, of course."  After 
all, Harry would be there, right?

Tom's face lit up.  "Great!  I'll let you guys know when."  He got 
rid of his tray and left.

Great.  Super.  Just peachy.

What was I thinking???
*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
The next day, I was sitting in my office in Engineering, bored out 
of my mind.  We were en route to our safe haven and there was 
absolutely nothing to do.  I was almost praying for something to 
break, just so I could have a way to occupy my time.  Without my 
whip threatening them, my crew was excitingly talking about their 
plans for the week.  I caught snatches of conversation about the 
holodeck, and I found myself glad that we weren't going to be 
using it.  I was actually starting to get excited about our "movie 
marathon," which was going to start on our first full day of 
leave, when Harry walked into the office.  He looked cautious.

"Hey, Starfleet.  What brings you down to the land of laxity?"  
Where did that come from? I was in a better mood than I thought.

He smiled weakly.  "Listen, B'Elanna, I have something to tell 
you."  He shuffled his feet, and I nearly laughed.  He looked like 
a little boy working up the courage to tell his mom who tracked 
mud on the carpet.  
"It's not exactly bad news, but..."

"Spit it out."

"Right.  A bunch of us are putting together an orchestra.  We're 
going to have a performance at the end of leave."

"And the problem is..?"

"Since it's only a week, we're going to have to practice a lot.  
Like, every day.  All day."  He ducked his head a little as if 
anticipating a blow.

The import of his words took a minute to sink in.  Harry was going 
to be busy all week.  That meant he wouldn't be at the marathon.  
I would be alone with Tom.  Just the two of us.  For at least 
three days.  Crud.  My good mood flew out the airlock.

Harry looked terrified.  I kept my voice as upbeat as possible.  
"That's no problem.  You didn't want to do this anyway, really.  
Go on, have fun."

"You're sure you'll be okay?"

"I'm sure."

He started out, then turned back with a grin.  "You guys'll come 
to our performance, right?"

"Of course! Now get out of here."  He complied.

And not too soon.  I turned my face to the wall, fearful that 
someone would see my expression.

Just Tom and me.  Me and Tom.  Alone.  This was awful!

Don't misunderstand me here.  Though I'll never admit it, I do 
have strong feelings for Tom.  Very strong.  I've developed...aw, 
hell, I think I'm falling in love with him.  That whole pon farr 
thing...kind of opened my eyes to how I felt, although it started 
a long time before.  And I know he has feelings for me, too, which 
is why I have to stop this before it starts.  A relationship would 
be a big mess for everyone involved.  Still, I have a hard time 
being around him and trying to conceal my feelings at the same 
time.  Which is why I was reluctant to do this marathon in the 
first place.  It's so confusing; in a way, spending several days 
alone with Tom fits my wildest fantasies, but it's also one of my 
greatest fears.

I drew my knees up to my chin.  I could cancel, just call off the 
whole thing.  But no, I couldn't do that to Tom.  *Take a chance, 
B'Elanna.  For once in your life, just go with the flow. *

I surveyed Engineering, the warp core thrumming healthily, the 
panels clean and indicating normal.  *It's not like you have 
anything better to do. *
*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
Two days later, I strode confidently down the corridor toward Tom 
Paris's quarters, duffel bag in hand.  We'd reached the nebula 
with no problems.  I'd been instructed to bring pajamas and two 
changes of clothes, and to come over at 1200, since both of our 
shifts were from 0900 to 1100.  It's good to have friends in high 
places.

I hadn't been quite sure what to expect for this "20th Century 
pastime."  I stepped into Tom's quarters and stopped short.  "Like 
it?" he asked with a grin.

"Tom, this is...amazing!"  And it was.  He'd cleaned most of the 
furniture out of the room, a feat in itself.  All that was left 
was a couch and a recliner.  The walls were covered with posters 
advertising what I supposed were other movies.  The names jumped 
out at me: Gone With the Wind, Citizen Kane, 2001: A 
Space Odyssey, Robin Hood: Men in Tights (I didn't want to know), 
and The Godfather, among others.  Including, of course, Star Wars.  
But the crowning glory of the room was a giant rectangular screen 
mounted on a wall.  The furniture faced it, a couple meters away.  
Between the couch and the screen was a large, fluffy blanket that 
was covered with plates, bowls, and bottles of junk food and 
drinks.  The room was totally transformed.

"Go ahead and dump your stuff by the wall," he said, his face 
lighting up at my reaction to the room.

I did so absently, still absorbed by Tom's redecorating job.  
"Where did you get that screen?"

"You'd be amazed what you can find in the cargo bays."  We sat 
down, me on the couch and him on the recliner, to my left.

"Okay, start the movie."

"Wait.  There's something I have to explain before we start."  
Ooookay.  "The Star Wars series was created in the 1970's by a man 
named George Lucas.  But instead of starting with Episode I, he 
first produced Episodes IV, V, and VI.  The films were a huge hit, 
even twenty years later, so Lucas decided to complete the series, 
starting with Episode I and going chronologically.  So even though 
the first three were in the middle of the timeline, they're 
considered the original trilogy.  When Episode I came out, people 
were supposed to know the plot of the originals.  So we're going 
to watch them in the order they came out.  Got it?"

"Yep."

"Oh, and feel free to eat whatever you want."

"All right."  I had given him replicator rations the day before.

"Oh yeah, these first three aren't in their original forms.  
Before creating Episode I, Lucas went back and spiced up the 
originals with 1990's technology."

"Makes sense."

"And B'Elanna?"  I glared at him.  "Relax!  That's what we're here 
for."

"Dammit, Tom, just start the movie already!"

"All right, all right.  Computer, play Star Wars: Episode IV."  So 
we weren't completely devoid of 24th Century technology.  He 
leaned back, and I relaxed - a little.  I wondered - 

"Wait!"

"Computer, pause."  Tom looked at me.  "What?"

"I just remembered those movies you told me about that were little 
more than glorified sexism.  If this is one of those..." I 
threatened.

"Don't worry, it's not.  Well, it kind of starts out that way, but 
the woman kicks butt, too."  I settled down, satisfied.  "Resume 
film."

**A long time ago...**

Big brassy music played as the title (A New Hope) scrolled up the 
screen, followed by an introduction.  I liked the slanting effect.  
I glanced at my companion, who looked positively giddy.  He caught 
my look and smiled.  I grabbed a handful of potato chips.  Maybe 
this would be fun.

**"I'm a member of the Imperial Senate on a diplomatic mission to 
Alderaan."**

The woman was pretty, but... "What's with her hair?"

"It's what people called 'the cinnamon bun' hairdo, as a joke."

Huh.

**"Help me Obi-Wan Kenobi.  You're my only hope."**

This was cheesy.  Cheesier than the time Neelix held that cheese 
feast.  If all the movies were like this, I didn't know how I'd 
last.

**"I've out run Imperial starships, not the local bulk-cruisers, 
mind you, I'm talking about the big Corellian ships now.  She's 
fast enough for you, old man."**

"A hotshot pilot.  No wonder you like this movie so much, 
Helmboy," I joked.  Instead the expected retort, Tom just looked 
at me with an enigmatic smile.  As if he knew something I didn't.  
That bugged me.

So they rescued the Princess, who thankfully proceeded to "save 
their skins," Obi-Wan ate it, and Luke blew up the Death Star.  
And they lived happily ever after.

Tom stopped the movie.  "So, what do you think?"  He looked at me 
expectantly.

I really didn't want to disappoint him, but... "It was...kind of 
cheesy.  And the plot was implausible.  And the characters were 
immature."  Tom's face fell.

"You hated it."

"No!  No, I didn't hate it.  It was pretty good.  It's just that 
from what you were saying, I expected something spectacular."

"All right, as long as you didn't hate it.  Actually, the first 
one is pretty cheesy.  But you've got to judge the series as a 
whole, not individually."

We discussed the film, snacking as we did.  I kicked off my shoes 
and stretched out on the couch.  One kind of weird thing happened.  
I mentioned that I thought Luke and Leia would be a cute couple.  
For some reason, this sent Tom into hysterics.  He almost choked 
on his pretzel.

"What's so funny?" I asked incredulously.

"You'll see," he managed to choke out.

"Pig.  Speaking of pigs, you and Han Solo have a lot in common."

"Aw, come on.  We're not that bad, are we?"  He gave me a puppy-
dog look.  I hate it when he does that.  It always works.  But I 
couldn't let him know that.

"Just delusional.  Start the next movie.  That's an order."  I 
swung my legs to the ground.

"Yes, ma'am.  Hang on, the screen needs adjustment."  He fiddled 
with something behind it, then plopped down on the opposite end of 
the couch.  "Computer, play Star Wars: Episode V."  I don't think 
he noticed that he wasn't in his original seat.  But the theme 
music was beginning, and I didn't want to interrupt it.

**"Then I'll see you in hell!"**

Solo may have been a pig, but at least he cared.  Don't ask me why 
Luke liked him, though.  At least Leia had the sense to stay away 
from his overpowered sex drive.

**Summoning the power of the Force, an inverted Luke Skywalker 
gets his lightsaber, frees himself, and slices up a really nasty 
beast.**

That was a nice trick.  I'm gonna have to build myself one of 
those things.

**"I guess you don't know everything about women." (Smooch)**

That was good, very good.  Teach the p'tahk Solo a lesson.  Was 
this what Tom was laughing about before?  I glanced at him but he 
was enthralled in the movie. No reaction.  Hmm.

**"Found someone you have, I would say, hmmm?"**

This little guy was adorable!

**"Mine!  Mine!"**

But slightly obnoxious.

**"You're trembling."

"I'm not trembling."

"You like me because I'm a scoundrel.  There aren't enough 
scoundrels in your life."

"I happen to like nice men."

"I'm a nice man."

"No, you're not.  You're -" She is cut off by a kiss.**

Damn!  I growled.  This was not supposed to be happening.  Leia 
and Han were obviously wrong for each other.  Although there was 
something almost...familiar about them.

**"I cannot teach him.  The boy has no patience."**

Huh?  But that meant -- this guy was Yoda!  The Jedi Master was a 
tiny old alien with big ears.  How weird!  Tom saw my reaction and 
laughed quietly.  I was too interested in the movie to stop him.

**Smack!**

I jumped, startled.  Something large and orange had landed on the 
Falcon's viewport.  Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Tom look 
over, so I settled down.

**Luke Skywalker, Jedi-In-Training, entered the dark cave, passed 
slithering snakes, and came face to face with - Darth Vader!**

I gasped and drew up my knees.  Concerned, Tom reached over and 
grasped my hand.  Don't ask me why, but I felt better.

**Luke swung his saber and chopped off Vader's head.  The helmet 
exploded revealing...Luke's face.**

Okay, I missed something here.  This seemed awfully anticlimactic.

But I kept my hand in Tom's.

**"I love you!"

"I know."**

Kahless, just the relationship I didn't want to happen!  And now 
it solidified.  Grr.  Strangely, though, I couldn't bring myself 
to truly detest the characters.  Against my better judgement, my 
heart was warming up to that scoundrel Han.  He'd been so sweet to 
Leia during their incarceration.  Without truly realizing what I 
was doing, I shifted closer to Tom.

**"Obi-Wan never told you what happened to your father."

"He told me enough.  He told me you killed him!"

No.  I am your father."**

"Whaaaat?" I exclaimed.

"Computer, pause!  Jeez, B'Elanna, you're breaking my hand!"  
Tom's voice was strained.

I looked down.  Sure enough, my hand clenched his extremely 
tightly.  "Oh, sorry," I apologized, releasing it.  Black and blue 
marks were already forming.  He massaged it gently, his long 
pilot's fingers delicately tracing -- *Stop it, B'Elanna,* I 
chided myself.  "You should get the Doctor to -"

"No, I'll be fine."  He winced and I knew he was in more pain than 
he showed.  "Well, maybe after the movie.  Speaking of which, no 
way am I telling if Vader's lying."  Damn.  Now how did he read my 
mind?  "Resume film."

The closing credits scrolled across the screen.  "We'd better get 
you to sickbay," I reminded.

"We?"

"Yes, we.  Knowing you, you'd get 'lost' on the way there."

He laughed as we exited.  "Why B'Elanna, I didn't know you cared."

When we returned to Tom's quarters, we didn't immediately start 
the next movie because Harry had said he'd be there for it and the 
sleepover.  I was looking forward to his arrival.  I wasn't sure 
if I could take any more of this aloneness with Tom without 
accidentally slipping up and saying something I'd rather keep 
private.  And yet, a part of me was hoping I would slip, or he 
would, or...what?  I wasn't sure.

We set up three "sleeping bags" in front of the couch.

"Kim to Paris."

"Hey, Harry.  Where are you?  We've got to start this movie before 
we fall asleep."

"Actually, that's what I'm calling about.  A bunch of us are going 
out to dinner tto celebrate, so I'll have to cancel on you guys.  
Okay?"

"The musically inclined shunning the couch potatoes, huh?  Have 
fun, Harry. Paris out.  Looks like it's just you and me."

"Couch potatoes?"

"Slang term for people who sit around all day and pig out."

"Oh."

"You want to recap the last one or just get started?"

"Start the movie.  Now."  I couldn't wait to see how they freed 
Han.

"Your wish is my command.  Computer, play Star Wars: Episode VI."  
Once again, the music played and the intro scrolled.

**"Who are you?"

"Someone who loves you."**

Aw, how sweet.  Their relationship continued to grow on me, though 
I still thought Leia'd be better off with Luke.

**"Where's Leia?"

"I'm here."**

Ugh, what was she wearing?  I guess my disgust showed, because Tom 
remarked, "That's known to aficionados as the iron bikini.  The 
actress hated it."  I'd hope so.

**"Soon I will rest.  Yes, forever sleep."**

How sad!  I loved Yoda.  He wasn't allowed to die.  Glancing at 
the chronometer, I discovered it was getting kind of late.  No 
wonder I felt sleepy.  Tom and I were sitting on the floor, 
leaning on the couch, so I laid my head on his right shoulder.

**"Luuuke...there...is...a-no-ther...Sky...wal...ker..."**

Huh?  Oh, who cared what he meant?  Yoda was gone!

**"Yoda spoke of another."

"The other he spoke of is your twin sister."

"But I have no sister."

"Hmm.  To protect you both from the Emperor, you were hidden from 
your father when you were born.  The Emperor knew, as I did, if 
Anakin were to have any offspring, they would be a threat to him.  
That is the reason why your sister remains safely anonymous."

"Leia!  Leia's my sister."**

"Whaaat?"  I jumped.

"Computer, pause.  Surprised, B'Elanna?"

"YES."

"Now you know why I laughed when you said Luke and Leia made a 
cute couple."

"Yeah.  I just wasn't expecting this, that's all."

"It's supposed to surprise you.  I'm not sure if this is true, but 
there's a legend that when this movie first came out, people who'd 
already seen it would drive by the people waiting in line and 
shout 'Luke is Leia's brother!' and things like that."

"Well, they were more barbaric and primitive then."

"Yeah.  Now sit back and relax.  Computer, resume."  The computer 
and I complied.

**"Soon the Rebellion will be crushed and young Skywalker will be 
one of us!"**

That Emperor guy creeped me out.  I put my head back on Tom's 
shoulder.  More comfortable that way.

So they went to Endor's moon, met some truly adorable Ewoks, blew 
up the shield generator, killed the Emperor, blew up the Death 
Star, and had an interstellar party at the end.  Sometime during 
this, Tom's arm found its way around my shoulders, which was fine 
with me.  When it was over we sat up and stretched.  I yawned.

"B'Elanna, why don't you go change while I clean this up?  I don't 
know about you, but I'm beat."

I had almost forgotten about the sleepover part.  I nodded, too 
tired to put up a fuss, grabbed some pajamas, and changed in the 
other room.  Even though we hadn't been particularly active, I was 
still catching up on sleep from before.

I settled in the middle sleeping bag and Tom went to change.  
Sleepy as I was, I couldn't help noticing how sexy Tom looked in 
his T-shirt and boxers.  Just then, the doors slid open and Harry 
walked in.

"Hi guys.  Did I miss the movie?"

"Uh huh," I mumbled.

"Darn.  Oh well, I'm too tired to watch anyway."

"Pull up a bag," Tom said, getting in his own.

What was it that the Captain called us?  The Three Musketeers?  
That night, we looked like three sacks of potatoes.

I woke up at 0800 facing Harry's sleeping bag.  I could hear faint 
snores coming from somewhere inside, so I decided not to disturb 
him.  I turned over to see if my other companion was making 
"music," but Tom was already up.  I sat up and stretched.

"Hey," Tom said, sitting on the couch to put his boots on.

"Hey yourself."  I rubbed the sleep from my eyes.  "You know, I 
really liked those movies yesterday."

As I had predicted, his face lit up.  "Really?  I was kind of 
worried for awhile there.  Wait'll -"

Just then, Harry yawned.  Loudly.  "Good morning to you, too," I 
teased.

"Hmm?  What time is it?" he asked sleepily.

"0805," Tom replied.  "You guys better get moving."

We complied, and by 0830 we were ready to go to breakfast "chez 
Neelix," as Tom said.

I couldn't resist.  As we were leaving the room, I commented, "By 
the way, Starfleet, you snore."  Tom cracked up at Harry's shock.

"I do not!"

"Do to."

"No way!"
*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
After breakfast and two hours of duty, Tom and I returned to his 
quarters.  We cleaned up the sleeping bags, changed into civvies, 
and brought out the snacks.  Harry, of course, had rehearsal, 
although he assured us he'd be back later.  Somehow, I didn't 
believe him.

We plopped down on the couch with a bowl of - what did Tom call 
them?  Emenems, or something?  Well, they were little chocolates 
with colorful candy shells, and I'd developed a slight addiction 
to them.

"Okay, B'Elanna, now we'll see Episode I.  Remember, this was made 
twenty years later, so technology was better.  And you're supposed 
to have seen-"

"The originals.  I know, Tom.  Just get on with the movie!"

"Wow.  You're really getting into these, huh?"

"Just start it."  He did.

The now familiar music and intro scrolled.  I could hardly believe 
how excited I was over these movies.  Neither could I believe the 
tingles going up my spine every time my hand touched Tom's in the 
candy bowl.

**"You were right about one thing, Master.  The negotiations were 
short."**

Wow.  The filmmakers had done a really good job finding an actor 
to play the young Obi-Wan.  He had the voice all right.  But what 
was with that punk hair?

I saw what Tom was saying about the technology difference.  This 
film looked much smoother.

**"Her Highness commands you to take her handmaiden with you."**

There was something about that PadmÈ girl.  Could she be Queen 
Amidala? Probably not.  But I kept that suspicion in mind.

**"And I'm the only human who can do it!"**

Okay, Anakin was a really cute little kid, but he wasn't much of 
an actor.

**"The Queen will NOT approve."

"The Queen does not need to know."

"Well, I don't approve."**

Now I was sure of it.  PadmÈ was the Queen.

**"I can assure you they will never get me onto one of those 
dreadful starships."**

I looked at Tom.  "Inside joke?"

"Yep."

I wouldn't show it, but I was very proud of myself for getting it, 
along with all the other jokes.

**"Obi-Wan promise...promise me you'll train the boy..."

"Yes, Master..."

"He is the chosen one...he will...bring balance...train him!"**

Oh no!  Qui-Gon couldn't die!  Well, he could, but...dammit!  I 
guess Tom must've sensed me tensing up, because he took my hand 
which was lying in the empty candy bowl.

**"Peace!"**

*That's what you think! *  I really liked this last dress of 
Amidala's.  Didn't care much for the others, but the white one was 
gorgeous.

The film ended, and Tom released my hand.  I almost held on, but I 
caught myself just in time.

"So?"

"It was great," I said.  "Except for Qui-Gon's death.  I think he 
was my favorite character, next to the Queen.  Speaking of her, 
don't think for a second that she had me fooled.  I figured out 
her identity pretty early."

"I knew you would.  What'd you think of Jar Jar Binks?  Most 
people in the 90's didn't like him."

"He was kind of annoying at first, but he grew on me.  That Darth 
Mal guy was creepy, though."

"No kidding."  He shifted, and I got the sense that he was 
choosing his words carefully.  "How about Senator Palpatine?"

"You mean the future Emperor?"

Tom did a double take.  "Wha - how did you figure that out?"

"It was obvious.  Same profile, same theme music.  Get with it, 
Helmboy."  I lightly punched his shoulder.

He laughed.  "Ready for the next one?"  At my nod, he started 
Episode II.

The second story of young Anakin Skywalker went by before I knew 
it.  I was so into the movie that I was still staring intently at 
the screen when it ended.  The sound of Tom's combadge woke me up.

"Kim to Paris."

Tom and I shared a look.  "What's the excuse now, Harry?"

There was a short pause before he answered.  "I have a date with 
Jenny Delaney so I'll have to miss the movie again."

"Don't sound so disappointed, Harry," Tom cracked.  I rolled my 
eyes.  "Have fun.  Paris out."  He turned to me.  "The Amazing 
Invisible Ensign strikes again."

We replicated some Chinese food, which didn't taste nearly as 
weird as it looked, and started Episode III.

What an epic this was!  The Rise and Fall of Skywalker.  A Tale of 
Two Jedi.  The Force.  I was enjoying every minute of it.

Afterwards, we discussed the trilogy.  We were both impressed with 
how it all came together, how you could see the seeds of Anakin's 
turn to the Dark Side even in little Ani.  It wasn't too late, so 
we took a walk and ended up in Holodeck 2, where Sandrine's was 
running.

The bistro was buzzing with people, including Harry and Jenny at a 
small table.  We decided to leave them alone and grabbed an empty 
spot from which the whole place was visible.

Glancing around, Tom remarked, "Wow, the Captain's plan really 
worked."

I followed his gaze.  People were everywhere.  Some were laughing, 
some quiet, some gathered at the pool table.  But each and every 
one of them was relaxed.  Including me.  Shore leave in space had 
done its job.  As I leaned back, a wide grin crept over my face. 
"You know, B'Elanna, you have a beautiful smile," Tom said 
seriously.  I searched his face for signs of a joke, but there 
were none.  Not wanting to ruin the moment, I thanked him.  He 
looked surprised that I hadn't snapped at him.  I think he was 
going to continue, but just then the Captain walked up.

"Enjoying yourselves?"

"Yes, ma'am," Tom said in that way of his.  "Have a seat, 
Captain."

She did, saying, "We're on leave.  Please, call me Kathryn."

"Of course."  The three of us chatted for an hour, then the 
Captain left.  The crowd had thinned out, and I unsuccessfully 
stifled a yawn.

"Ready to leave?" Tom asked.  I nodded.  Once in the empty 
corridor, Tom offered me his arm, and I took it.  As we strolled 
leisurely down Voyager's halls, I grew more comfortable and 
settled into my companion's side, resting my head on his shoulder.  
We were silent the whole way back, but that was all right.  I was 
almost sad when we entered Tom's quarters.  I think he was, too.  
But we had to, and the dream ended as we separated.

Like the previous night, we set out the sleeping bags.  Harry 
returned, saying his date went well, but it was nothing 
extraordinary.  The three of us climbed into our bags.  As I was 
falling asleep, I felt Tom's hand caress my cheek, bringing back 
those earlier moments of happiness just in time for me to dream 
about them all night long.
*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
I was the first one awake this morning.  I realized I was 
conscious, but I kept my eyes closed and my face in my pillow to 
prolong the peace I felt and the remnants of my dream.

Gradually, I became aware of a...presence against my left side, 
and I felt warm, rhythmic breath on my cheek.  I snuggled closer 
to that comforting presence.  It shifted and settled again, a part 
of it resting on my back.

Much to my dismay, my mind cleared some more and I couldn't stay 
asleep.  I was almost completely awake now, so I opened my eyes 
and discovered the presence was Tom against me with his arm across 
my back.  Pig!  How dare he - but no, it wasn't his fault.  He was 
just moving in his sleep, and I happened to be in the way.

My peace had been broken.  Gently, I placed his arm next to his 
body and climbed out of my bag.  Tom barely noticed, he was 
sleeping so soundly.  I let him and Harry, who was snoring again, 
sleep a little longer since we didn't have to be up just yet.

God, he looked adorable sleeping like that.

I think that was the most peaceful evening and night I'd had in a 
long time.
*	*	*	*	*	*	*	*
"Pizza?"

"Check."

"Candy?"

"Check."

"Soda?"

"Check.

"Eager viewers?"

"Double check."

"All right, Torres, we are cleared for takeoff!"

We were being silly.

"Will you do the honors?" Tom requested with a bow and a sweep of 
the arms, as much gallantry as he could show sitting next to me on 
the couch.

"Thank you, sir," I said, matching his tone.  "Computer, play Star 
Wars: Episode VII."

In the course of the day, our marathon's epic saga came to an 
exciting, brilliant, and of course, happy end.  Both Tom and I 
were grinning like idiots.  Harry, unsurprisingly, wasn't there; 
his group had an extra rehearsal that evening.  To be honest, I 
didn't miss him.  Two days ago I'd have been apprehensive of being 
alone with Tom, but I'd come to delight - yes, delight - in our 
time together.  I couldn't imagine a better shore leave.  I think 
Tom felt the same way.

Now we were both facing each other on the couch, legs crossed, 
talking excitedly about the final trilogy.  Our words overlapped; 
I don't think we would have made sense to anyone else, but we 
understood each other perfectly.  It was getting really late, but 
we didn't notice.

"Hey, you know what I just realized?" Tom said.  "We never 
discussed the original trilogy.  As a whole, I mean."  He was 
right.  My mind flashed back two nights, bringing up all the 
things I'd noticed then, and we resumed our dialogue more calmly.

"You know," I remarked, "having seen all three trilogies, I think 
the original's the best."  Tom agreed.  "One thing that really 
struck me was how the characters matured."

"Really, it was that noticeable to you?"

"Well, yeah.  Take Luke, for instance.  He starts out as a whiny, 
impulsive, dependent kid with a bad haircut.  In the second movie, 
time has passed and we learn he's now a commander with better 
hair.  He has a better sense of himself."

"And in the third, not only does he have control over others, he's 
in control of himself.  And he has good hair."

"Exactly.  You could say the same about Leia and Han, hair 
included."  I couldn't believe how much Tom and I were on the same 
wavelength.  I settled into the couch.

"Speaking of Leia and Han..." he said with a sly, triumphant grin.

"Don't bother.  I'll admit it, I was wrong.  Although if she 
hadn't turned out to be Luke's sister, I might still disagree."

"Why?  They had great chemistry."

"Oh, come on Tom.  Those two?  He was an...an...arrogant, self-
absorbed, dishonorable rogue who only cared about money and women.  
She was independent, strong-minded, and sharp-tongued, not to 
mention intelligent.  On top of all that, they were constantly 
arguing and trading insults.  Their attraction was one of the 
least likely things in the movie.  It'd never happen in real 
life."  I stopped to breathe.  I was glad I'd voiced my opinion, 
but I couldn't get rid of a nagging feeling I'd had ever since 
watching the originals.  It was almost as if I recognized Leia and 
Han's relationship from something real, something...I couldn't 
figure it out.

"But the bickering was part of the attraction!  I mean, at first I 
shared your opinion; it did seem farfetched.  I warmed up to the 
idea pretty quickly, though.  Han's not a bad guy, once you get to 
know him.  Sure, on the outside he's a scoundrel, but you said so 
yourself - the characters mature, and as time passes, you see that 
he's got a lot of depth."

"I guess so.  I guess I kind of stuck with my initial opinion in 
spite of everything else that happened.  Although I think my 
dislike was more intellectual than emotional."  I chuckled.  
"Against my wishes, I started to like him in the second film.  His 
looks didn't hurt either."  My mind was racing at warp speed.  Why 
the hell was this sounding more and more familiar?

Tom grinned wider.  "Yeah, Leia wasn't the worst sight to see.  A 
hotshot pilot and a hot-tempered beauty.  In a weird sort of way, 
it makes sense."

We paused, lost in our own thoughts.  I was trying to solve my 
little mystery, and Tom's expression made me think he was doing 
the same.  Our eyes met and locked in a powerful gaze.  Then it 
hit me; I realized why Han and Leia seemed so familiar.  At the 
same time, a look of realization that must've mirrored mine washed 
over Tom's face.  We remained frozen in our gaze, unable and 
unwilling to break it.  It was as if time had slowed down, leaving 
us in a dreamlike state.

I had to say something.  "You know...Tom...thinking about it, that 
scene with the two of them fixing the ship was..."

"Incredible," he finished softly.

That wasn't what I had meant to say.  I felt like my mind and 
mouth had ceased all communication with each other.  There was 
another pause.

"Listen, B'Elanna, these past few days have been wonderful.  
Sharing this with you..."

"I've loved it too, Tom."

"Stop me if I'm being too presumptuous, but...well, you know I've 
had strong feelings for you for a long time now and...I'm starting 
to get the idea that you might...well, return them."

I was silent.  Was this man psychic?  But damn me, I still 
couldn't bring myself to say it.

My flushed cheeks and expression must have given me away, because 
Tom smiled and said, "I thought so."  His brow creased.  "You're 
trembling."

I was, but..."I'm not trembling."  I added halfheartedly, "Pig."

His smile broadened.  He took my left hand and began stroking it 
with his thumb.  "You like me because I'm a pig."

"I happen to like nice men," I managed to squeeze out.  Kahless, 
he didn't know what this was doing to me!  Or maybe he did.  My 
heart was pounding too loudly to concentrate on that thought.

"I'm a nice man."  He was drawing closer.  Was he going to...?  I 
had to say something.

"No you're not.  You're-" His lips touched mine, and it felt like 
a Death Star was exploding in my head.  *What the hell. *  I 
leaned into the kiss and returned it with all the passion I'd kept 
inside for so long...

As we separated, I realized what dialogue we'd unintentionally 
been reenacting.  But you know what?  I didn't care.  All that 
mattered now was Tom, me, and the knowledge that this was just the 
beginning.

Fin

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