Picnic in the Park...

Posted on Tue Dec 7th, 2021 @ 2:01am by Lieutenant Samaire MacBride-Reece [Lalor] & Skylah McBride [Lalor] & Staff Sergeant Liam "Swede" Reece [Reece]

Mission: Season 5: Episode 3: CAPETOWN
Location: USS Elysium, Arboretum
Timeline: MD 7 / 1230 hours
7496 words - 15 OF Standard Post Measure

Liam sat under the central tree of the Arboretum, a closed picnic basket on the ground next to him. He was quietly dozing in the comfortable ambient temperature of the day.

Skylah snuck up behind the tree and yelled BOO!

Liam, unaware of the impending assault, jumped, then quickly realized who had gotten the drop on him. "Ohh, you're a stinker!" He laughed and then started to stalk the young girl. "Now the tickle monster is gonna get you!"

Samarie stepped out and blocked him with a grin. "Now now Sergeant," she mocked with a smile.

"Oh, you clever little assasin! You brought back up, aaargh." He stood and playlfully tilted his head to the side and closed his eyes, playing 'dead'.

After a few beats, he popped one eye open and looked around, hoping to see the two of them smiling.

Skylah was grinning.

Samaire's lips were twitching. "Just how old are you again?" Samaire asked curiously.

Shrugging playfully, he replied, a warm smile on his face, "Old enough to know better, but still young enough to hope for better." He stepped aside and indicated the blanket he had set up for them. "Thank you both for coming today. I hope you're hungry, I made a few tasty things."

Skylah skipped back over grinning. "Yes, I am hungry!"

Samaire followed a bit more sedately, not wanting to look too eager. Her gaze kept straying to Liam's face.

Liam smiled happily at Skylah's exuberance. He noticed Samaire's eyes continuously moving to his face. His kept doing the same for hers. A few times, their eyes would meet and he would feel a tingle run down his spine. It was a good feeling, to be sure. And one he didn't want to end.

"Well then," he replied to Skylah as he moved back to the blanket to sit. But, before he did, he offered his hand to Samaire to allow her to sit first.

Her hand shook slightly as she laid it in his. "Thank you."

He tried to hide the blush that filled his cheeks when Samaire put her hand in his. Her skin was so soft and warm! He swallowed as his eyes stayed locked on hers. "You're welcome," he replied softly. His thumb gently rubbed her knuckles as she sat down on the blanket.

Once both of the ladies were seated, Liam reluctantly released Samaire's hand and moved to his spot and sat as well. After taking in a deep breath, he tried to bring his racing heart under control. "So," he finally said, "As I said, I made a few choices, not knowing what you two liked to eat for lunch." Opening the basket, he started to pull out several small food containers. "First, we have peanut butter and strawberry preserves sandwiches. Next, there's chicken salad sandwiches. I also made some fruit salad. And to drink, there's fruit punch and peach tea." He laid out each container as he named it. Once done, he pulled out napkins, plates, cups and utensils.

Skylah jumped up and helped him pull stuff out, eager to help. "We use to picnic on Earth before we came here" she told him.

Liam smiled at her and thanked her for her help. "I think picnics are probably the best way to spend a nice day." He commented, then looked at Samaire, his smile growing a bit brighter each time he did.

Skylah chattered away, not aware of the situation between the adults. "Yeah, and on the cliffs near our new house, it's a great view. Aunt Sam says when we get back to Earth, she is going to get me a tree house there as well."

"Wow!" Liam replied, adding a bit of excitement to his voice. "A whole tree house all to yourself?! Now, I think I'm a teeny bit jealous." He chuckled as he reached out and playfully tapped the end of her cute little nose.

Skylah giggled.

Samaire watched in silence, cautiously assessing their interactions.

Liam, realizing that he was being scrutinized, decided the best way forward was the honest way. So, that in mind, he said to Skylah. "If you want, and it's okay with your Aunt, once you finish your exams and get into the better classes, maybe we could try to design something? That way, when you get back to Earth, you will be all ready to build it and then have tons of fun with it."

"You can draw?" Skylah asked eagerly.

Liam guffawed. "Can I draw?" He reached into his pack and pulled out his doodle PADD. He handed it over willingly, knowing there was nothing on it that was inappropriate for Skylah to see. "Go ahead and scroll through the images. That collection goes back, ohhh, two years, give or take a few weeks."

Skylah plunked herself down and began scrolling through slowly, oblivious to the adults.

"You are good with kids I see," Samaire said softly from his otherside.

He smiled softly as he replied. "I always have been. Kids and pets always seem to love me." He shrugged. "I've been told it's because I have a good soul or I'm just a kid at heart. I dunno. Dealing with them has always seemed...easier, I guess. There's never any guessing with them. They will tell you, right up front, what they want or don't want, whether they hate you or," their eyes met as he was speaking and he felt that zing again as he stuttered slightly, "l-like you."

Her lips curved slightly at that. "You barely know me," she hedged.

He was starting to feel like a schoolboy, holding hands with the prettiest girl in class for the first time. Matching her grin, he replied softly, "I'd like to change that, if you feel the same?"

Samaire had been thinking about it. She nodded slowly. "That would be nice." Then she gave a cheeky smile. "That said I have not had good luck you Reece men."

Liam started to groan, then paused. He started to ask, but decided against it. He'd talk to Kyle instead. To Samaire, he said, his own cheeky grin going. "That's because you you didn't have the best one, until now."

"Ah, is that so?" Samaire asked impishly. "And how will you prove that?"

He grinned, his cheeks turning a bit red. "Start with kissing you?"

"Oh?" She smiled now And teased "Well, for comparison's sake."

Liam's eyes grew a bit wider at that little comment. Then, he decided to go for it. He leaned in and kissed her gently, but with just the right amount of pressure and passion. He found the taste of her lips intoxicating.

Samaire accepted the kiss and after a moment she was kissing him back, matching the pressure and passion he gave to her.

For several beats, the rest of the world simply melted away. Liam had had romantic relationships in the past to be sure. Okay, truth be told, he had only had one. But, while the kisses were very nice in that previous relationship, he was finding this first, sweet, innocent kiss was by and far, the ultimate winner. He felt that he could kiss Samaire until the end of creation.

Samaire shifted closer as they kissed, as if drawn in and her hands touched his face gently.

Liam inhaled deeply when Samaire touched his face. Slowly, he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her to him. As he breathed, he inhaled her sweet perfume. Whatever it was complemented her perfectly. He continued to kiss her, only taking what she was willing to give.

Samaire's arms went around his neck as she pressed closer. How far they would have gone, they would never know, because Skylah turned her attention back to them.

"EEEWWWW!!" She squealed

Liam broke the kiss, looking to Skylah, fearing something was wrong, when he realized what had happened. Still holding Samaire close to him, he looked at her and smiled. "That...was amazing!" He whispered to her as he gently pressed his forehead to hers.

Samaire had giggled at the disgust on her niece's face as she glanced her way. When Liam leant against her she grinned and whispered "Now I will have to risk Vanessa to kiss Kyle"

"Hey!" He whispered in mock disbelief. "What am I, chopped liver?" He kissed her again, relishing everything that she gave him.

Sam kissed him back but gently pulled back.

Skylah rolled her eyes. "Are you two finished?"

After Samaire pulled back, Liam gave her a wink, then a mischievous grin crossed his face as he looked over at Skylah. "Why? Would you like some butterfly kisses, young lady?"

"Eww, no!" Skylah dove away so the food was between them. "Someone mentioned food."

"Eww?" Liam countered as he released Samaire and slowly stalked after Skylah. "If you don't want butterfly kisses, then perhaps you want tickles!" He playfully acted like a silly tickle monster, reaching out for her, wiggling his fingers, but staying just out of reach.

"No Liam!" Skylah squealed and backed away

Samaire merely leaned back against the tree and watched them interact as her brain swirled about. She needed to tell Liam stuff before this went further.

Laughing softly, Liam sat back on his butt. "Fine, I guess your shields are just too strong for me to get to you. I surrender, Little Miss! You are the victor!"

Skylah grinned and reached for a plate. "Cool"

Liam chuckled softly. Looking over at Samaire, he saw her watching the two of them. He hoped he wasn't overstepping himself. Being with Skylah as he was just felt..normal and right. Both McBride women were quickly becoming very important to him. He just had to ensure that he didn't do anything stupid and lose them.

Grabbing a plate, he asked Skylah. "What would you like, young lady?"

As Skylah pointed out her choices politely Samaire twisted a piece of grass in her fingers. She was lost in her thoughts totally.

Liam nodded and grabbed the requested items. As he handed the plate over, he asked, "What would uou like to drink?"

"Juice please." Skylah replied.

Nodding, Liam grabbed the bottle of juice and a small cup. He then poured some out and handed the filled cup to Skylah. "There you go, sweetie. Enjoy!" He then looked over at Samaire, noticed she was a quadrant away from them. "Hey," he said softly as he reached out and gently touched her knee. "You okay?"

Sam came back to them quickly enough. "Oh yes, sorry was thinking that's all. Have you spoken with Kyle about me?" She asked in a low tone.

Casting a quick glance at Skylah, Liam saw that she was busy enjoying her lunch while still scrolling through his drawings. Looking back at Samaire, he nodded slightly. "He said that you two bumped into each other during a run and he asked you to dinner, which went well, but ultimately was mutually decided that you two just be friends."

Sam nodded. "That is true. But I was wondering if he mentioned other things."

Nodding, he replied. "He did say there was something else, but that it wasn't his place to speak on it."

"Skylah and I are temporally displaced. We are not from this time era." Sam replied.

He gave her a soft smile, which spoke volumes of his acceptance of both Skylah and her. "Okay. Doesn't change how I feel about you and Little Miss. I still very much want to be a part of both of your lives. If you want that as well, that is?"

Samaire nodded. "I would. But you need to know, I was born in 2236. And Skylah was born in 2258."

He gave her a little smile and shrug as he replied, "I've always had a thing for older women." He winked playfully at her, before turning a bit more serious. "It doesn't bother me. You two could have been born in the fourtern hundreds for all I care. What's important is that you are both here, now. I know that the two of you are very special. I will do whatever I can to prove that I am worthy of your company....and love." He blushed softly at that last part. He so desperately wanted to remain a part of both McBride's lives.

Sam pretended not to hear about the love part, it was too soon but she admitted to herself that she was definitely drawn to him. "So... where do we go from here?"

Giving her a soft grin, Liam's eyes sparkled a little. "Well, I think that a great place to start.. is for you to tell me what you'd like for lunch." He chuckled softly and winked at her. "The rest will come when it does, naturally. I know I'm not going anywhere. You?"

Sam blushed. "No, not after those kisses." She admitted and moved to select her lunch.

"I'll get it for you," Liam reached out and gently touched her outstretched hand. "What would you like? P.B. and J. Or chicken salad?"

"Chicken salad, please" Samaire said with a smile.

Liam smiled and nodded. He set about get a plate made for her. Then, after draping a napkin over his opposite forearm, he held the plate of food up on his fingertips and presented it to Samaire. As he did so, he tried to sound like a proper butler. "Compliments of the Chef, Madam."

Samaire laughed and took the plate "Why thank you, sir"

Liam bowed playfully after Samaire took her plate. He then held up the bottle of peach tea, "Would madam care for the reisling," then the fruit juice, "or the rosé?"

"Reisling please" she played along with him, finding it fun to do so.

This seemed to please him considerably. "Very good choice, madam. A very excellent vintage, this bottle is. I pulled it from the wine cellar myself for just this occasion." He poured a cup full and handed it over. "There you are."

Laughing she took the cup and sat back beside him. "You sure know how to throw a picnic Liam."

After filling his own plate, Liam moved to sit next to Samaire. Reaching up he put his left arm behind her and gently held her to his left side. "Well, with company as wonderful as you two, a guy has to do things correctly."

Sam gave a small smile at that. They ate in comfortable silence and after lunch, Skylah fell asleep on the rug.

Holding Samaire close to him, Liam spoke softly. "She really is very precious. Thank you for allowing me to be with you both."

"It's a pleasure to share her. She is the only thing aside from my cat that I really have from our time."

"You know your cat's gonna love me, right?" He joked as he turned his head and kissed her softly.

Sam kissed him back "We shall see, " She said softly.

Liam breathed in Samarie as they kissed. She was stunning! And in more ways than just her looks. She was brilliant, funny, had a huge heart, and that smile and those eyes? Wow!

After a few quiet moments, when they came back up for air, he asked, "Should we clean this up and get Little Miss home and into bed?"

"Hmm ok, she has been rather busy this week, normally she does not crash like that." Sam began to help pack up the picnic.

Liam nodded and helped finish closing things down. When all that was left was the blanket and sleeping beauty, Liam moved over and grntly scooped her up into his arms, as she stirred, he carefully laid her head against his chest. He then moved so Samaire could collect the blanket.

Sam hesitated but then picked up the basket and the blanket. "I can carry her if you wish," she said.

Liam gave her a smile that practically glowed. "Is it okay if I carry her? This feels nice." He held the young girl in a safe and secure hold, protecting her from any danger.

"Sure, but she can get heavy." Sam said as they moved towards the paths and then the exit.

Liam chuckled softly. "Naw, she's a lightweight. I've had heavier loads when doing ruckmarches back in Boot."

Sam smiled at that. "So you always wanted to be a marine?"

As they walked down the path, back to the exit, he nodded. "Yeah, growing up, listening to my Grampy's and Uncle's stories, I was hooked pretty much from the crib." He glanced over at her and grinned. "And you? Did you always want to be in Starfleet?"

Sam shrugged "It was a path that my father did not choose for me. And one he hated"

Liam's smile faltered slightly. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories. "

"It's all good. My brother supported my choice. He also supported my getting custody of our niece"

"Well, it's a shame I never had an opportunity to meet him. He sounds like he would've been my kind of guy."

"He was going to be a great Laird, bring the family back together. I do not know much about his life after we vanished but I know he was a good man."

"Maybe you could pick things up where he left them off? You are certainly a Lady." He smiled softly as he spoke.

"Nope. He had heirs who are against it." They entered the nearest turbolift. "Deck 15" She said to the system.

"Oh," Liam commented as he entered the turbolift. "Well, I still think you're a lady."

Samaire smiled. "Born and raised"

Liam smiled and giggled slightly. Then they reached the McBride home. As they entered, he asked, "Which room is hers?"

"The one on the left," Samaire pointed to the room to the left as she placed the basket on the dining table and draped the blanket over a chair.

Liam nodded and quietly moved into Skylah's room. Carefully, he laid her on her bed, removed her shoes and draped a blanket over her. Liam took the extra time to gently move a few stray curls from her face. He then quietly left her room and met Samaire in the living room. "She's out for the count."

Samaire nodded from where she stood almost lost for a moment in the middle of the room. "She has nightmares at times so she does not sleep well at night. But then, everyone on our crew.. those who were temporally displaced with us... has them as well."

Moving over to stand in front of Samaire, Liam reached out and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her to him. "I'm so sorry, Sam. Is there anything I can do to help?"

She shook her head."Counselors you know. They are working with us" She allowed him to pull her close. And placed her hands on his shoulders.

"Well," he began softly as his eyes locked onto hers. "I might be able to offer other forms of.....therapeutic treatment. " he licked his lower lip.

Her lips quirked "Oh? Do you have a medical license?"

He gave her a sly grin. "No, but I am trained in mouth to mouth resuscitation."

"oh,,, that's interesting" She smiled back at him.

"I could give you a few lessons," he said coyly, "You know, to make sure you know all of the current techniques that you might not be aware of."

"Well it may have changed in the past 100 years or so." Samaire whispered. "Best to be current."

Liam smiled broadly, then, the smile changed to a look of desire on his face, as he leaned in and kissed Samaire deeply, the passion of the kiss growing higher the longer the kiss went.

Her arms around his neck, Sam pressed close as they kissed, the passion wiping all sense from her mind.

Moving his arms to encircle Samaire, Liam pulled her to him and held her fim against his body. He couldn't get enough of this woman. Never wanted to get enough of her!

As they continued to kiss, Liam's hands started to slowly move over her body.

His touch started fanning the flames of desire. Sam moaned into his mouth. Her brain was going fuzzy, so much so, that she was forgetting that there was a minor child in the next room.

Slowly, Liam moved them to Samaire's couch and sat down, pulling her atop of his lap, as their kissing continued uninterrupted.

Sam found herself straddling him, and she didn't care as she buried her hands in his hair.

Liam moaned softly into Samaire's mouth as his hands moved to slide under her blouse, feeling her bare back.

Sam gasped into his mouth as his fingers sent frissons through her. She broke the kiss breathlessly. "Liam..."

Liam looked deep into Samaire's eyes, as he tried to catch his breath. "Samaire...you're amazing!!"

She gave a breathless laugh "Well it's only a kiss."

He looked up, deep, into her beautiful eyes as he shook his head slowly. "I don't just mean the kiss, Sam." The heaviness of his voice spoke volumes as to how he felt, and was learning to feel, for this wonderful woman.

Slowly sliding his hands up her back, he relished the feel of her warm, soft skin against his fingertips.

She shivered against him. "I.. have a shift soon" she whispered.

While still moving his hands over her flesh, Liam paused in his kissing of her neck long enough to ask, "When...when can I see you again?"

"i.. don't know.." she whispered "When would you like?"

A hungry grin filled his face. "If the choice was mine, a milisecond after the door closes behind me." He pulled her down to him and kissed her some more, then came back up for air and lightly pressed his forehead against hers.

"I don't want to make you uncomfortable, Sam," he whispered. "But, I want to see you every day, when I wake up and every night when I go to sleep." He took a beat and added, "I know that you have to put Skylah first. I respect that completely. I will gladly take any time you feel is right."

She knew she wasnt thinking straight. The kisses, the touches, god she wanted more right then and there but she had to consider Skylah, the fact that they both still had hidden trauma. She rested her forehead against his "I would like to continue this, when I am less pressed. I.. can get a baby sitter for tomorrow night."

He smiled. "I'll be here to pick you up...eighteen hundred hours?"

She nodded "ok... dress code?"

"Dress for black tie." He smiled. "I'm taking you out for a fine dinner and dancing."

She blushed "Really?" she asked softly. "okay.."

He smirked playfully. "Well, unless you'd rather hang out in my barracks room, dressing much more relaxed... or optional."

"Won't that just impress your bunk mates" She teased back. She had not moved from her position though.

He grinned proudly. "I'll just tell him to go chill out somewhere else." He had noticed that she hadn't moved yet. As he continued to gently rub her back, his hands moved to her sides as well. He would only go as far as she allowed him to.

"hmm I think dinner would be nice" She brushed her lips across his. "Then we see."

Liam caught her lips as she brushed past again, his hands slowly moving up to her breasts.

Samaire moaned as he touched her and pressed slowly closer. His touch drove thought from her mind.

Hearing her moan and watching her reactions to his touch was very arousing to Liam. He was soon pitching a tent down underneath her. "You like it when I touch you, don't you?" His words were soft, yet perfect for the situation.

Sam nodded shly "Y-yes" she admitted.

"Do you want to go further? Do you want me to touch you everywhere?" He gently rubbed and pinched her breasts through her bra as he spoke.

Her eyes were dark now with passion. "I... yes I do ...." she got out on a ragged breath. "I..."

Liam smiled a hungry smile. "Perhaps we should move this to your room?" He asked quietly.

Was this too fast? She asked herself but she didn't protest, as she slid off his lap and held out a hand to him. "Sure.."

Liam took her hand and followed her quietly to her room. There was a part of his mind that worried they might be going too fast. However, everything about being with Samaire McBride felt perfect. He just hoped he didn't push too far and ruin things with her.

Samaire was nervous as she led him into her bedroom. She had barely known him a week. And now she was about to take a chance on a very personal level.

Her bedroom was dimly lit and was a standard Federation bedroom.

Liam was very careful to be respectful of Samaire's private space. He knew that if he screwed up, it was very likely that he would never be invited in here again.

Sam paused by the bed and turned to face him nervously.

Liam moved up to stand directly in front of Samaire. His demeanor had changed. Earlier, he was full of explosive energy, trying to experience everything about this woman as quickly as he could.

Now, he was slower, more focused, dedicated to each moment as it came. There was an intensity to his eyes when he looked at her. There was also a shyness. Slowly, his eyes never leaving hers, he slowly and gently took hold of the bottom hem of her blouse and carefully pulled it up and off of her head and arms.

Seeing more of her flawless skin, he had to swallow hard. He then waited to see if she wanted to remove his shirt.

Slowly, shyly, Samaire reached out and began to unbutton his shirt. She took her time, slowly she stripped him of his shirt. She raised her eyes to his and caught her lower lip between her teeth as she did so.

Liam felt a thrill run up his spine when Samaire ran her soft, warm hands over his chest and shoulders as he pushed his shirt off of him. It was the most sensual experience he had ever had!

Reaching out, he gently caressed her right cheek, his eyes having never left hers. "You are so beautiful," he whispered earnestly. "Come here."

She stepped up closer to him. "Okay.." she breathed.

He reached up and gently ran the fingers of both hands through her hair, starting at her temples. As he did so, he pulled her in and kissed her again.

Sam let the kiss sweep her away as she slid her hands up his back, fingers tracing the skin gently.

Liam moved his hands down Samaire's back, to her perfectly shaped ass. Grabbing hold with both hands, he gently lifted her up off the deck.

Feeling her feet lift off of the floor she wrapped her legs around his waist as she pressed closer.

Liam was in heaven with an angel. He had never felt this kind of passion with anyone else, until now.

Moving to the bed, he laid Samaire down, crawling into her bed with her. He pinned her pelvis with his and his arms were planted on the mattress, on either side of her head. He looked down at her, as his dog tags hung from his neck and laid against her chest in her cleavage.

Sam looked up at him, her lips curving slightly in a warm smile. "Liam." She whispered.

He returned her smile easily. "I love you, Samaire McBride." He knew it was fast, but, it was how he honestly felt and he wanted her to know it.

"Liam.. you don't know me very well" she said softly.

He shook his head slowly. "Sam, I know it's only been a week. But, I know what my heart is saying. I don't want you to feel you have to say anything in reply, I just wanted you to know how I feel."

She touched his face gently. "I understand"

He smiled a small grin in reply to her touch. He felt a sense of relief that, while she didn't say the words back, she understood him and had allowed him to stay. This woman was truly perfect!

Lowering down, he started kissing her again. As they continued to make out, they rolled over, switching positions.

Samaire shifted against him as the passion grew. She straddled him as she ended up on top.

Looking up at her, Liam was again amazed by just how beautiful and perfect Samaire was. He slowly slid his hands up her body, and gently held her bra covered breasts.

Sam's eyes drifted to half mast and her head fell back as she rocked against him.

She leaned down to kiss him again then a scream split the air. She jerked and scrambled off of Liam and was sprinting from the bedroom mere seconds later.

Liam was quick on her heels. The scream had come from Skylah's room!

Samaire was on the child's bed with Skylah in her arms as soon as she hit the bedroom. The 5 year old was sobbing and shaking in her aunt's arms. Samaire began to rock her back and forth. She knew it was a nightmare, one that Skylah would be unable to describe, she had her own like that. Everyone from the Archeron had them.

Liam quietly entered Skylah's bedroom and, feeling heartbroken for the sweet little girl, who was quickly gaining a home in his heart, just as her aunt had, mouthed the words, "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Samaire shook her head with a smile. Skylah's sobs were slowly receding and Sam started to hum a tune that was unknown. Skylah curled close to her aunt and relaxed.

Liam nodded and stood there, silent, as he watched Samaire slowly calm her niece back to sleep.

It took a bit of time but, once Skylah was asleep, Samaire placed her back on her bed and tucked her in. Standing Sam took a breath and turned to Liam. "I have to make note of the nightmare for the counselors." She whispered as she headed for the door.

Liam nodded and exited, giving little Skylah a concerned look as he left. He then went over to the replicator and ordered a cool glass of sparkling Altair water for Samaire. Once it materialized, he carried it over and handed it to her while he gently rubbed her back with his other one.

Samaire was standing at the desk typing in a PADD. She looked up at him. "I am sorry, you need to know the whole story, Liam."

"I'll listen to whatever you feel I need to know, Sam." There was no judgement in his voice as he spoke, only compassion and acceptance.

She glanced down at her semi undressed state. "Bedroom."

While Liam was excited to go back into Sam's bedroom, he knew that, for now, their fun time was on pause. "Okay," he replied softly.

She led him in, and sat on the bed, her legs crossed. She waved him to sit beside her.

Liam moved in and sat on her bed, facing her, his hands lightly resting on her knees. He waited patiently for her to begin.

"In 2259, I was assigned to the USS Archeron as a helmsman. I got to fly a Constitution Class Starship, it was a great thing. Skylah and I along with our cat Seraph." here she pointed to the sleek black cat that wandered through the room. "Went without hesitation. Then not a year later, we were attacked. By what, by who, we do not know. Ship Sensors went down. Everything went black." She paused.

"Next thing I know, is being woken on the hull plates of the Archeron's cargo bay. Covered in slime. Naked. All around me the rest of the crew and families were in the same state. Hanging from the ceiling were gelatinous pods, where we had all slept in for nearly 140 years. Around us were Starfleet Officers of the USS Patriot. They had found the Archeron in a nebular and they revived us. All the crew, civilians, we all have the same issues. Nightmares, sleep walking, nausea around certain foods, fear of invasive medical procedures. The Captain, he killed himself 6 months after we were revived. They found him hanging from his apartment balcony in San Francisco. So now we have to log everything."

For a few beats, Liam said nothing. While he certainly had been through his own fair share of danger, he couldnt fathom what she and Skylah had been through. "Sam," he said quietly. "I know you've probably heard this more than you can count, but, I hope this is different because it's me. I am so sorry that you and Skylah had to experience that horror, and that you both are still having issues because of it. If there's anything, and I do mean anything, that I can do for either of you, please let me know." He paused and then added, "I'm not going anywhere. I want to be here for the both of you."

"I appreciate that" She said softly. "We do not know what happened to us. Some of us came back with extreme weight gain, others extreme weight loss, three of the science officers were pregnant before we vanished, not when we woke yet no children were found other than those already on the ship."

Liam shook his head slowly. He suddenly felt a very strong desire to protect both Samaire and Skylah. More than anything else he had ever wanted before. Holding his arms open, he spoke softly. "Come here," as soon as he said it, he hoped that she didn't think he was minimalizing her in any way. He only wanted to help her feel safe and loved.

She went into his arms without a thought. She had to admit that she had not been touched by anyone other than Skylah since their return who was not a medical professional. She felt safe with him. She rested her head on his shoulder.

Once Samaire seemed comfortable, Liam wrapped his arms around her and held her close. "Sam," he said quietly. "I know that I will never fully understand what you and Skylah went through. How could I? What I can and will promise you is this. So long as you allow me to be a part of your lives, I will do everything in my power to ensure the both of you are happy, safe, and loved."

Sam nodded in silence as she snuggled down. "Thank you"

Liam held her closer as she snuggled in more. "You never have to thank me for loving you, Sam." He turned his head and gently kissed her forehead.

She just held onto him a bit tighter.

Liam turned his head to look down into her eyes. The look contained within them was filled with only love and compassion. He so very badly wanted to kiss her, but, he wasn't sure if it was appropriate to do so.

"Sorry it ruined the moment" Sam mumbled as she looked up at him.

He shook his he slowly, as his eyes locked with hers. He replied quietly, a level of desire beginning to fill his voice again. "I expect there will be many moments to come." He paused, his breath seeming to catch briefly, then he leaned in and kissed her again, tenderly yet full of growing passion.

Samaire kissed him back gently. "My shift is soon, I should get ready for it. But part of me wants to call in sick."

Between soft, tender kisses, Liam responded. "I think...you should stay home...for Skylah....and I should stay....for both of you."

"Hmmm Lieutenant Whavi will have my head" Sam whispered back. "You can stay if you want to... keep her company...."

He made a soft growling sound. "Well, I can't allow anyone to harm that very pretty head of yours." He kissed her some more, his passion growing hotter. "Okay...I'll stay here and wait for your return....spend the day with Little Miss...and tonight, after she is in bed...
We pick this back up.....but, to give you a taste of what's to come...."

He laid her back down on the bed and, after laying down next to her, started to kiss her deeper as his left hand started to move over her whole body, staying above her clothing, but touching her nonetheless.

Sam moaned and her back arched to his touch. "Liam.." she whimpered

"Yes, Sam?" He asked quietly then moved his mouth to the side of her neck.

"if... this continues... I will miss my shift..." she mumbled as she reached to trail her hands over his body.

"Do you want me to stop?" He knew it was an unfair question. However, he was enjoying making her feel this way.

"no." she answered honestly. "But I will have to soon." she slid her hand to the waistband of his pants.

Liam growled softly. Releasing his hold on her, he rolled onto his back and quickly undid his belt and started to open his pants.

Samaire watched him for a second and then slid her own pants off her legs.

After his pants were off, Liam was dressed only in his dark burgandy boxer briefs, which held a rather noticeable bulge in them.

Samaire smiled and knelt on the bed in her brief underwear. "Hmm you dont want to stop either do you?"

Still on his back, Liam looked up at Samarie as she knelt, looking down at him, shook his head and grinned. "With you with me? Never!"

Samaire glanced at the chrono. "Hmm we shall see" and so saying she straddled his waist and bent down and kissed his lips gently.

He inhaled deeply through his nose as they kissed. He slowly ran his hands over ever part of her body that he could reach, as if memorizing it all by touch.

Sam's hair fell down cloaking their faces as she pressed against him and rocked her hips slowly against him.

Liam moaned into Samaire's mouth as he felt her grinding against him. He moved his hand to the hooks of her bra and undid them in a single flick of his fingers.

Part of her was saying, do not rush, do not just jump into bed with a man you barely know but her body was pushing for the contact, the heat, his touch. She sat up and let her bra fall, glad of the dim lighting in the room as she did so.

Even with the dim light, Liam was amazed at just how absolutely breathtaking Samaire was! He knew he had to be careful. He didn't want her to think all he wanted was a booty call. This was far above that. He wanted to help her and Skylah find happiness.

After a few beats, he whispered, "Wow! You are the most beautiful woman that I have ever seen!"

"You need to get out more" she whispered back. "You saw your brothers girlfriend, she so outranks me in the looks department."

He shook his head slowly. "Not in my eyes. I'm glad he's happy with her. But, Sam, she doesn't hold a candle to you." The tone of his voice, along with the devotion and honor in his eyes showed that he was speaking the truth.

Her cheeks were red as she leaned back down to brush her lips across his. "Thanks"

He kissed her deeply, running his hands up her back, into her long hair as he did so. "I'm only telling the truth as I see it, sweetheart."

Sam ran a hand down his chest. Her fingers dancing slowly across his skin, she nuzzled his neck and rocked her hips, then she paused and whispered "I should really get ready for work..." she rocked again "Should really leave you here and go to work..."

He moaned again, biting his lower lip as she continued to drive him crazy. "I...I...I don't...to....get you in....in trouble....ohhhhhh."

"And I can't leave you like this" she whispered. "Can i?" she slid off of him to the side.

A soft whimper escaped his lips when she moved off of him. He then closed his eyes and took a beat, to try and calm down.

Samaire nuzzled his neck. "Sorry" She whispered.

In a flash, he rolled over, putting her on her back as he looked down at her. "Not as sorry as you'll be later, after you come home and Skylah is dreaming sweet dreams in her bed," he smirked, then leaned down to whisper hotly in her ear. "At that time, you will be all mine, Miss McBride." He nibbled lightly on her ear lobe, then looked her in the eyes again, hunger clearly evident in them.

She whimpered her eyes dark "ok... sounds promising"

He smiled at her, then gave her one final kiss, and rolled back on his side, looking at her, with that same look of love in his eyes.

She closed her eyes and took a breath. "Ok.. I need to move." She whispered and rolled off the bed to head to the bathroom.

Liam rolled up onto his side and grinned as he watched her move away, his eyes moving over every square inch of her backside.

Sam glanced at him shot him a smile and headed to get changed for work.

"So, what do I need to know about Little Miss?" He asked as he watched her.

"No Soda! And she has to read for 30 minutes before bed for homework, book is on the bedside table" Samaire called out. "Replicator has her favorite meals."

"Favorite shows and toys?" He sat up in the bed, as he continued to watch her get ready.

"In her room, shows on the holovid flagged. NO leaving the cabin, no holodeck" Samaire stepped into the shower out of his line of sight.

"Okay," he called out to her. He would do right by Skylah today and show Samaire that he was serious about wanting to be with their lives.

Samaire used the sonic shower and soon came back out dressed in her uniform and straighting her pips. "Just be careful, she is sneaky."

He gave her a happy smirk. "I promise. I was very sneaky at her age too." He got up from the bed and moved over to were she was finishing up. Siding up behind her, he wrapped his arms around her waist and nuzzled her neck and whispered into her ear. "I'll make sure she's taken care of and safe. You just focus on doing your work well and coming home to us, to me."

"Ok" she stammered out as her body melted against him. "Thank you, Liam."

He could feel her body react to his touch. While he knew he was teasing her heavily, he wanted to make her feel light on her feet today. "Stay safe today," he said as he kissed her neck once more, then releasing his hold. "What time does she normally wake up?" He wondered if he'd be able to get a couple hours of sleep in before Skylah was awake.

"Could be an hour or so." She said "bed by 21h00. No later."

Nodding, he replied. "Okay. She'll be safe and have fun today. Try not to worry about her." He helped the straighten her uniform, taking a few liberties, brushing away a few nonexistent flecks from her ass.

Sam gave him a withering look and said, "See you at 22h15"

He replied with a handsome, boyish grin and leaned in to kiss the tip of her nose. "We'll be here."

Samaire nodded then grabbed her comm badge off the kitchen bench and headed out the door.

Liam watched her leave, a happy smile on his face. He didn't need to be in the barracks until 0430 the day after tomorrow, so he was perfectly content to stay here and spend the day with Skylah, and the night with Samaire. The dynamic of the three of them, while exceedingly new, still felt right to him. He just hoped he didn't do anything to screw it up and loose the both of them.

After cleaning himself up, he replicated some comfortable clothes; jeans, a loose-fitting t-shirt and a flannel buttonup shirt. He also replicated underwear and socks.

Once he was dressed, he quickly made Samaire's bed and, once everything was neat and clean, he moved out to the living room and sat down on the couch. After laying his head back, he set his internal clock to wake up in two hours. He'd take a nap if and when Skylah did.