A Dash of Pepper

By Teela Jones

"So, how is your head?" she asked with a concerned frown, watching him close his eyes for a moment. At her voice he opened his amber eyes and gave her a tentative smile.

"Mmm. A bit sore. Three tiny stitches, that's all. Luckily I have a hard skull." He glanced at the bandages and brace on her right hand. "What did they say?"

"Oh, just some minor abrasions, a sprained wrist, nothing much to worry over. Should heal within a couple of weeks. Just going to be inconvenient for a while."

He gave her an apologetic look.

"I can't tell you how sorry I am for all of this," he said as he cast his eyes downward. "I didn't even-"

"Please don't apologize again. I should have been paying more attention."

"And I shouldn't have been running for that damned bus," he said ruefully.

"Well, no real harm done." She straightened up and sighed.

"So I guess this is it," she said with a smile as she held out her left hand. He stood and moved to take it but stopped abruptly, swaying dizzily as the room spun. Alarmed, she caught his arm and steadied him until he regained his balance.

"You'd better sit down!" she exclaimed to the tall, lean man before her.

"N-no, I'm okay, just got up too quickly," he protested in a less-than-steady voice. "Uh, thanks."

"You do look a little pale," she observed as she studied his handsome face. "Should I go get someone?"

"No, please... no more doctors. I just want to get out of here. It's been a long day."

"I hear you there. Feeling steady now?"

"Yeah."

"Good. Once we sign the release forms at the front desk they said we can go."

"Wonderful plan. Shall we-?"

He stole a glance at her as she completed her forms. A grin appeared on his face as he noticed her physical features for the first time. Her long auburn hair fell in gentle waves down her back, its rich color catching fire even the dim hallway light. Despite the bandages, he could see her hands were delicate and graceful; her smile, when she spoke to the receptionist, was like a flash of the sun. She finished and looked up at him, part of the smile still in her incredible blue-green eyes. He felt an unexpected flutter in his stomach. They had encountered each other a little over two hours ago and he had never noticed a thing about her except her sense of humor and her willingness to forgive and forget the accident.

"Um, are you sure you're okay?" she asked at his strange expression.

"Yes, I'm fine. Didn't mean to stare. I... I just realized we never even exchanged names," he said lamely.

"You know, you're right," she said with a nod of her head. "Well, my name is Teal Perkins."

"Teal?" He asked, frowning at the unusual name. "Like the color?"

"Like the duck. My mother had this thing for birds. I have two sisters named Lark and Robin, and a brother named Jay." She rolled her eyes and grinned.

"Ouch. I can imagine the teasing that went on when you were a kid," he said with a grin of his own.

"Good thing she also gave us all a sense of humor!" She looked at him expectantly. When he didn't speak, she cocked her head ever so slightly to one side. She raised her eyebrows and an amused expression crossed her face.

Belatedly, feeling like a total idiot, he snapped out of his reverie and blushed.

"Sorry," he said hastily, "I'm Lee. Lee Crane."

A twinkle sparked in her sea-colored eyes.

"Crane, like the bird. Of course." Her short, genuine laugh made him relax and he found himself smiling for the first time that day.

"Sounds like some coincidence, huh?"

"Guess we were meant to run into each other," she agreed. "Not that I would have chosen to meet you the way we did."

"Kind of a painful introduction," he admitted. He paused, regarding her closely. "Say, Teal, would you be interested in letting me buy you a cup of coffee? Kind of a peace offering?"

"No," she said, secretly enjoying the startled look on his face. "Not as a peace offering. But I'd love a cup of coffee by way of an introduction." He seemed surprised and delighted as he realized what she'd said.

"It'd be my pleasure, then. Uh... I'm just visiting here; would you know a good place to go?"

"Several. But... maybe you want to change first." She indicated his shirt, reddish brown from the blood that had soaked in.

"Oh... I didn't even think-"

"Why don't you come over to my place, you can change there and get cleaned up a bit. There's a cafe just around the corner that serves great espresso."

"I... I don't want to impose-"

"Ah. Trying to back out on the coffee now?" she teased. He gave up his protests and sighed.

"Okay. You win." He picked up his duffel and followed her out.

"It's just three blocks away," she said, trying to match pace with her long-legged companion.

"Beautiful town, this."

"It's home. You said you're here on a visit?"

"Shore leave, actually. A week's worth."

"Ah. You must have some touristy sort of plans then."

He was silent for long enough to catch her attention.

"No?" she inquired curiously. "A whole week and no plans?"

"My best friend is busy... he has a girlfriend that lives here. He invited me along but I didn't want to be a third wheel. You know how that can be."

"Do I ever." She peered up at her handsome companion as they waited for the lights to change.

"Are you in the Navy?" she asked, trying to imagine how incredible he'd look in uniform. Or out of it, she added wickedly. She was startled at the boldness of her thought.

"I work on a research vessel," he answered. "I'm in the Reserves right now."

"Oh." The crossing light changed and he automatically reached for her hand. Without thinking she accepted it, making it halfway across the street before she registered the contact. A furious blush betrayed her embarrassment but she did not let go.

Lee was surprised she took his hand and he felt a wave of warmth from the sensation. Maybe something good will come out of this accident after all, he thought. Shore leave was beginning to look better by the minute. 

She fumbled with the key, hampered by her injured hand. He reached over and said, "Allow me." His fingers touched hers for a brief moment and he hid his surprise at the spark he felt. Seconds later they entered the spacious apartment.

"Wow," he said as he looked around. "This is nice."

"Thanks. Please make yourself at home here. Bathroom is down the hall, first door on the right. Towels and such are in the cabinet behind the door." She started to say something, stopped herself, and then decided to continue.

"Lee, if you want to grab a shower I wouldn't mind. You need to wash the blood out of your hair anyway."

He began to automatically refuse but thought better about it. She was right, he needed a shower.

"This is really going out of your way," he protested.

"Do you have a place to stay? A room somewhere where you can get cleaned up?"

"Well, no..."

"If you go trying to find a place looking like that you'll scare people to death. They'll be sure you are a raving ax murderer or something. Get cleaned up and we'll go get that coffee. I can help you find a room, if you'd like."

"Only if you allow me to buy you dinner tonight," he said, afraid he was pushing it too far but willing to take the risk. He caught a flash of mischief in her eyes.

"So tell me, Lee Crane, are you always this charming to all the women you run into? You said that with such a practiced ease."

He felt a slow blush creep up the sides of his face. He cleared his throat self-consciously.

"Ah, well, I didn't mean it to sound like a line," he tried to explain. "I... truthfully I'm not that into the social scene these days. Work, you know."

"Mmm hmm." She grinned at his discomfort. "What a shame."

Before he could comment she waved him towards the hall.

"I'll make a few phone calls and see what I can do for lodging. Take your time, I never run out of hot water here. Yell if you need anything." Anything like a backscrub or help drying off that delicious body, she added mentally. She kept her expression innocent.

"Sure, thanks," he said as he picked up his things.  

The bathroom was large and beautifully decorated; the dark green soaking tub took up one wall and a simple shower stall stood next to it. How long has it been since I had a long, hot soak? he wondered as he eyed the roomy tub. Hmm. Big enough for two... He drew in a sharp breath at the unexpected thought. Where on earth was this stuff coming from? Silently berating himself for his decadent mental wanderings, he set his clothes out and slowly, carefully, stripped. He was beginning to feel the numerous bruises he'd received earlier and noticed an unpleasant tension throughout his muscles. He turned the shower on, adjusting the temperature to just below his heat limit.

The hot liquid coursed over his abused body as he sighed in relief. He stood there, motionless, for quite a while. Opening his eyes at last, he found a large variety of scented soaps and gels on the ledges; choosing a fresh-smelling foresty one he worked up a lather and began the task at hand. Used to efficiency showers, he reveled in the luxury of a long, unhurried one. As the aroma and heat began to relax him, he let his thoughts wander to the woman just outside the door. 

She had been innocently turning a corner when he had plowed into her, knocking the both of them to the pavement. He'd hit his head on the side of a brick storefront, cutting the skin above his left eye. He'd seen stars for a moment... Everything dimmed a bit, then clarified as he'd focused on his hapless victim. She was trying to regain her balance and rise but was not having much luck. She cradled her arm and frowned at her hand; aghast, Lee had staggered towards her and began apologizing profusely. Expecting anger, fury, outrage, he was met with calm and collectiveness. She looked at him, her stunning eyes widening as she saw the blood running down his face.

"Are you okay?" she asked. "That looks... nasty."

"What-?" he said dazedly, not expecting her to speak so normally. He put a hand up to his forehead and flinched when he saw red on his fingertips.

"No... I'm okay... how are you?" he said as he fished out a handkerchief to staunch the flow.

"Doesn't look too bad. Everything's still attached," she said in a matter-of-fact tone. He reached down and helped her to her feet. He held her for a moment as she regained her balance; she didn't seem to mind leaning on him at all.

"It's swelling already," he said, pointing to her hand.

"Hurts enough," she said with resignation. "There's a clinic a couple streets over. Maybe we both should go there."

Reluctantly, he'd agreed. 

iii 

The hot water had gone a long way to relax him and he carefully rinsed the soap from his long, trim body. He washed his hair, trying not to soak the bandage on his forehead. A few more minutes worth of indulgence and he turned the water off.

As he reached for the towel he suddenly wondered how Teal would look in the shower... millions of tiny bubbles caressing her curves, the look of pleasure on her face as the fragrance enveloped her... slim, delicate hands gliding across smooth skin...

He stopped, completely dismayed to find he wasn't quite as relaxed as before. My God, he thought, has it been that long since I've had a little female companionship? She is a beautiful woman, though...

Embarrassed, he forced himself to think chaste thoughts and dressed slowly. His faded jeans were a bit on the snug side but that couldn't be helped. Perhaps a cold shower...

"Lee?" she called through the door. "Are you all right in there?"

"Uh, yeah, just finishing up. Be out in a second," he replied, glad she hadn't seen him jump.

"No hurry. I just was kind of worried, what with that head wound and all."

"Gimme a minute," he said as he gathered his things. He took several steadying breaths and checked his appearance in the mirror. Finally looking human again, he emerged from the bathroom. She gave him an appraising scan and nodded her head in approval.

This one is a born heartbreaker, she told herself. He was almost too handsome, with his golden amber eyes and his lean, fit frame. His long, graceful fingers would have a marvelous touch, she decided. Hiding an appreciative grin she spoke.

"You look better, Lee. Enjoy the shower?"

"Was wonderful. Thanks for allowing me to mess up your bathroom."

"Hmm. Anytime. You got your bandage wet... let me get a new one. No, no arguing. Sit down at the table."

"Yes, ma'am," he said with a mock salute at her commanding tone.

Her touch was gentle when she replaced the dressing. When she was bending close Lee secretly inhaled the scent of her hair, closing his eyes in appreciation of the wonderful floral fragrance. He was seized by the desire to nuzzle the silken strands and breathe in deeply... but checked himself and pulled away a bit. This has got to stop, he chided himself. A little voice sounded in the back of his mind and countered, it's been too long... you need this... go for it, maybe she's interested...

He shook his head against the voice. Startled, Teal stepped back, concern on her face.

"Did I hurt you?" she said with a sorry expression. She bit her lower lip... something that Lee found incredibly sexy, all the more so because she wasn't aware of it.

"No... sorry, I was just, ah, dizzy there for a second. Must've been all the heat from the shower."

"I know what you mean. Sometimes I get into the tub and before I know it an hour has gone by."

The sudden image of her luscious body, pink and rosy from a bath, made his temperature hitch up a notch. Self-consciously he shifted in the chair.

"You're feeling okay now, though." At his nod, she continued. "Well, I have some bad news, I'm afraid. It seems you chose the worst time to look for a place to stay. The motels and hotels are booked solid what with the Waterfront Festival and two major business conventions going on now."

"Well that's just wonderful," he declared with a sigh. "I guess I'll have to go back to the boat and bunk there."

She gazed at him for a moment, seeing he was totally serious.

"There might be another alternative," she said evenly. "Maybe we can come up with another solution over coffee." If you're game, she added to herself.

"Coffee sounds good right now," he admitted, missing the tiny smile that flitted across her face. "Are you ready?"

"Sure. Would you like me to run your shirt through the wash? I have my own machines and it would be ready to dry by the time we come back."

"Yeah, I guess it would be better if I got those bloodstains out sooner rather than later. Are you sure it wouldn't be too-"

"Much trouble, no. You know, for a guy on a vacation you sure do worry about an awful lot of things. Trust me, if it was an imposition I wouldn't have offered in the first place."

He considered her words and gave her a grin.

"Sorry. It's usually my job to worry. Hard to break the habit."

"Perhaps we can work on that," she said casually as she moved down the hall towards the washer. He gathered his bag and padded after her, noticing how wonderful the view was from behind. She had some incredibly appealing curves and a natural gliding gait that enhanced those assets. He practically ran into her when she stopped.

"Don't they have washers where you come from, Lee?" she teased. "You seem really eager to see it."

That's not what I'm eager to see, he thought silently. Oh, God... I have got to stop this! She is simply being hospitable and here I am, turned on like a teenager!

"Uh, sorry. I was thinking of something else for a second."

"Okay, then, let me have that shirt. No, on second thought put in all of it. More efficient to wash a fuller load."

While he knew her statement to be true, he hesitated before surrendering all of his dirty clothes. She was busy pre-treating the bloodstain and he hastily stuffed his jeans, socks and underwear into the machine. Commander of a Nuclear submarine and you're embarrassed to let her see your briefs! he chided himself. It has been too long! 

"Okay, let's go." She smiled up at him and he stilled his bothersome thoughts. 

iii 

The small cafe was intimate, yet casual, and he relaxed almost upon entering the establishment. The heavenly aroma of quality coffee made him draw a deep, appreciative breath of pleasure.

Teal bit her lip at his unconscious display. That uninhibited smile, the closing of his eyes from pleasurable sensation... what would he look like making love? she wondered. If he looked this appealing just smelling coffee, she couldn't imagine it. But, she decided, I would like to find out. If only he was interested...

Lee was surprised to find her easy to talk to. She was an interesting, unpredictable conversationalist and his estimation of her rose as the hour passed. She had a wicked sense of humor and he found himself laughing more than he had in any recent week. As they worked on their third cup, she finally grew a bit more serious.

"So, Lee, about your lodging situation..."

"Hmm, I'd forgotten all about that. Well, the boat isn't the most convenient place but I don't have many options."

"Won't it be a hassle to come clear from the harbor every day?"

"Yeah, especially without any transportation back and forth."

She looked directly in his amber eyes and said, "Why don't you stay at my place? The couch opens up into a bed and I have plenty of room."

He was taken aback by her offer; she had said it in a matter-of-fact way, with no hint at anything but friendliness. She was not like any other woman he'd ever met.

"Unless you are uncomfortable being my guest," she added when she saw his look. "I won't bother you. I...um... thought it would be a good idea," she trailed off. "Sorry."

"Oh! Ah, no, I just... your offer took me by surprise, that's all. I wouldn't want to, um, compromise your reputation, generous as your invitation is."

"Are you kidding?" she returned with a spark in her eye, "You would give my reputation a much needed boost! Why, I'm known as an old spinster who has no friends and certainly no men in her life. It'd give the old ladies down the hall something to gossip about."

"As tempting as the offer sounds, I think I'd better decline," he said, regretting the very idea of passing up a chance to spend time with her.

She frowned, thinking furiously. Then a light spread across her face and she spoke.

"I won't be able to do things normally, not with this wrist of mine. I could really use some help around the place. And since it was you who caused this whole thing..."

"I should be the one to come to your aid," he finished with a grin matching her own. "Well, that makes sense. After all, it was my fault. It'd be like making restitution, right?"

"Right!" she said as she hit the table with her good hand. "It's settled, then?"

"Deal," he said as he took her offered hand and shook. The brief touch felt divine. 

iii 

The washer had been long finished by the time they came back to the apartment. While he went to hang up his things in the spare hall closet, she switched the clothes. When she grabbed the plain white briefs from the washer she paused. Plain, white, utterly functional underwear. White cotton! she mused, shaking her head in dismay. No, no, Lee Crane should be wearing dark silk boxers, something loose and sensual. Oh, to see such a sight! With a sigh she tossed them in with the rest of his clothes and hit the button on the dryer.

"Here," she said as she tossed him a spare set of keys. "Feel free to come and go as you please. I'll be here most of the time; my summer art classes don't begin for almost three weeks, so I'll be puttering around until then."

"Art classes?" he asked. "What are you taking?"

"Teaching, not taking. This semester it's watercolors and calligraphy."

"Hmm. A woman of many talents," he said in a softer tone than he intended.

"It's fun," she said as she shrugged, trying to ignore the shiver that raced up her spine. "Uh, would you be interested in exploring the area until dinner?"

I'd rather be exploring you, he answered silently, licking his lips in reaction. Down, boy! he continued. She'd have you face first in the street if she could read your thoughts!

"Maybe later," he answered aloud. "I think I'd enjoy relaxing for a bit, if you don't mind."

"Perfect. Would you like to watch a movie on t.v. together or would you rather be by yourself?"

"Actually a movie sounds great. I'd love the company."

Before long they had settled on the couch and were absorbed in the late afternoon matinee show, an action adventure movie both had enjoyed before. Lee made sure there was a respectable distance between them, even though he would have liked to hold her close. As the movie progressed, he noticed her comments were diminishing and her eyelids began to drift shut not too long after the mid-point of the film. In the span of one commercial break he realized she'd fallen into a light sleep next to him, her breathing barely detectable. Her face was relaxed and innocent, stirring his emotions in a way he couldn't have predicted. He shifted a little and she woke, her beautiful eyes clouded a bit with confusion.

"Do you want to go take a nap?" he asked gently as she focused on him.

"Mmm," she murmured, "sorry. My wrist was hurting and... I took some of that pain medicine they gave me. I guess... it made me sleepy."

"Why don't I turn off the movie and let you get some rest."

"Mmm, yeah, okay," she mumbled as she snuggled closer to his shoulder. He watched her in amusement for several heartbeats; she was fast asleep in less than a minute.

He loathed waking her; she'd been through a lot that day and she looked so sweet cuddled there. Not having much of a choice, he settled into the couch and was pleased when she gave a soft, expressive moan and curled around his arm. The warmth of her body and the fragrance of her hair made him smile and relax all the more. Before he knew what was happening he had drifted off as well.

iii 

"Lee?" she called fuzzily. "Wake up." She moved into a sitting position, idly wondering how she had come to be wrapped in his arms, her head on his chest. Not that she minded, but...

"Hmm?" came the groggy reply. "What?" Golden amber eyes blinked slowly as he tried to get his bearings.

"Fell asleep."

"You're right." Carefully he stood, stretching slowly as he came to full awareness. He reached down to help Teal up and she yawned.

"Thanks," she said, stretching a bit herself. "Wow, is that the time?"

"Nineteen hundred hours already," Lee replied without thinking.

"Almost past dinnertime," she commented. "Um... do you still want to go out? I have a bunch of stuff I could put together here, if you'd rather."

"In sounds good. I promised you dinner, though. Will you take a raincheck for later?"

"Of course. How does pasta and shrimp sound?"

"Terrific. You are going to let me help, aren't you?"

"Normally I would refuse but with this hand the way it is, I'll need you." 

iii 

Lee shook the wooden spoon at her, ignoring the tears of laughter on her face.

"No, now, I'm serious!" he exclaimed. "There really was a fifty-foot giant squid that attacked the sub!"

"And," she gasped, "you had to have a great big calamari barbecue to get rid of it!"

He lost control and laughed with her. Her humor was infectious and he leaned weakly on the counter.

"Oh, God," he breathed at last. "I don't think I have laughed this much in months!"

"That's a shame," she said as she wiped her face. "You have a wonderful smile."

"You're not so bad yourself," he replied, marveling at the way her eyes seemed to glow.

Teal drew in a steadying breath and stifled a stray giggle.

"Well, it's not sautéed squid, Captain, but I think dinner is ready."

"Thank goodness," he said vehemently. "I don't think I can survive one more round!"

By the time they had finished dinner, Lee felt more at home than he'd ever thought possible. It was hard to fathom how quickly he'd come to relax in her company. When she suggested a walk he readily agreed, having decided to test the waters by holding her hand for longer than a street-length crossing.

The evening was warm and clear, the faint cool breeze from the water stirring the leaves of the trees as they passed under them. He reached for her hand and she took it at once, almost as if she'd wanted the same thing. Maybe she's being polite, he reasoned. Yes, that was it. He smiled, content with the contact and the pleasantness of the journey.

After about five minutes he felt her pull her hand away and couldn't help feel a pang of disappointment. When she hooked her arm around his, he was happily surprised and drew her a bit closer. They walked in silence, admiring the scenery, until they reached a secluded bench near a small lake.

They sat close, gazing out at the moonlit water. She inclined her head towards him and rested it on his shoulder without a word. After a second's delay he moved his arm around her shoulder and snuggled tightly.

They sat there for quite a while in companionable silence until Teal raised her face to him. In a soft voice she said, "Thank you for accepting my offer to stay at my place. I... I hate to admit it but I get a bit lonely now and again."

"I understand," he said sincerely. "Every day I am surrounded by people, good friends, but I find loneliness creeping in once in a while."

"And I want to thank you for something else."

"Oh? And what would that be?"

"For being a gentleman. For not grabbing me the moment we got alone and for not expecting more than this."

Lee swallowed, remembering his decadent thoughts earlier. But she was right; he would never take advantage of a woman like that.

"You have been incredibly understanding about the accident, shown true concern for my welfare, given me a place to stay... I would never betray that kindness."

She nodded and glanced at the lake for a moment.

"I... have a confession to make. My instincts told me you were trustworthy when we first met... but I am not used to taking risks. While you were in the shower, I... checked up on you."

Surprised, he looked a question at her.

"My brother is a cop. I had him do a data sheet on you, just in case my instincts were wrong."

"So I passed?" he asked with a small grin.

"And then some. I really didn't mean to pry but I couldn't take the chance you were some depraved lunatic just escaped from the mental institution. Unless there's something your hiding?" she finished with a slight twinkle in her eye.

"Oh, nothing too sinister." He flashed her a teasing smile. "Only a few skeletons in the old closet."

"Hmm. Okay, I can deal with skeletons." She sighed and said, "Maybe we'd better be getting back home. I think we both could use some extra sleep."

"You're right." He offered her a hand up and looked into her eyes for a prolonged moment. There was a warmth there that made something stir deep within him.

It happened naturally. She tilted her face up to his and he read the willingness there; he bent lower, cupped her chin with a gentle hand, and gave her a slow, soft kiss. She responded in kind, without urgency. After a few seconds he drew back, gauging her reaction, then moved into another embrace. He brushed her lips delicately with his own, noting that she closed her eyes as she responded. Though he was sorely tempted to deepen the kiss, to explore her mouth and let the passion build, he stopped himself from taking the liberty. They pulled apart, her face as flushed as his, and exchanged a careful smile.

"Wow," she said quietly. "Some desert."

"Yeah." Lee grinned down at her and offered his arm. She accepted it without a word and they headed out of the park.

He felt like he was walking on air and barely noticed the trip back. She had surprised him at every turn, and their kiss had been a perfect finishing touch to the evening. He couldn't recall having even a remotely similar feeling of contentment.

They were both fairly quiet once they reached the apartment, feeling the fatigue of the day. The couch was quickly converted into a bed for Lee and they said their good-nights without delay. 

iii 

Teal woke, the ache of her wrist propelling her out of sleep. Quietly she padded down the hall towards the bathroom, where she kept the pain medicine. Quickly downing a couple of large pills she headed back to bed, only to be stopped by a strange sound coming from the living room. Stepping carefully she moved towards the couch, where a sleeping Lee was making sounds of distress. In a few moments it was obvious he was having a nightmare, his urgently spoken words disjointed and full of stress.

"...no, not the... Control room!... where... the pump, to... taking on water, no... Chip, Chip, don't... don't go, the diver... the..."

She shook him gently.

"Lee? Wake up, you're dreaming," she said to no avail.

"... stop the Admiral, no, not in there, he... no!" He came awake with a start, breathing harshly and looking panicked. Abruptly he sat up, confusion written on his pale face.

"Steady there, Lee. You had a nightmare. It's all right," she reassured the distraught man.

He blinked uncertainly, not sure where he was. There was a touch on his arm and he looked at the person before him... memory clicked and he shut his eyes as he realized who she was. God, I hate nightmares, he thought shakily. Damn.

"Are you okay?" she asked slowly as he appeared to calm down.

"Y-yeah, I'll be fine. Thanks."

"Some dream," she commented. "Want me to get you a glass of water or something?"

"Lemme go wash my face," he said, embarrassed at his display.

She watched him stumble to the bathroom and went to the kitchen to put on a kettle of tea. When he returned she noticed the chagrined look on his handsome face.

"Would you like a cup of tea? Sometimes it helps."

"Um, sure. Okay. I... hope I didn't wake you."

"I was up already. Wanna talk about it?"

"No, it was just about the sub, something that happened a while back."

"Does your job always generate that much stress?"

"More often than not, I'm afraid." He accepted the cup of hot tea and sat down at the table.

"Do you take time out to have fun? To release any of that tension on a regular basis?"

He sipped at the soothing tea, a slight frown on his face.

"It's difficult. It's hard to have a social life when you rarely see dry land for more than a few weeks at a time. Most of my down time consists of recovering from one injury or another."

She regarded him for a suspended moment. Reaching across the table she took his hand and gave him a smile.

"Well, you have a week of vacation now, and I intend on making sure you have some fun and distractions."

"Might be a tall order," he said as he began to unwind a bit.

"Oh, I love challenges." She opened her mouth to say more but was surprised to find a yawn there instead.

Lee's lips twitched into a grin and he leaned forward.

"Why don't you go back to bed? You need sleep." At her reluctant look he said, "I'll be fine. The tea is helping and I'll probably be nodding off before too long myself."

"If you want some company, let me know," she said as the first wave of cottony softness washed over her. Those pills sure worked fast...

"Did you take anything for pain lately?" he asked, suspicious of her sudden sleepiness.

"Yeah. Kinda... strong..."

"Let me help you." He rose to assist her but before he could arrive she had put her head down on her arm and was drifting off rapidly. A couple of shakes did no good and he bent down, carefully wrapping is arms around her and lifting her easily. She didn't move and he carried her down the hall and into the bedroom. Placing her gently on her bed, he covered her with a light blanket and watched her for a while, making certain she was sleeping normally.

With her promise in mind, he returned to the couch and fell asleep sooner than he'd hoped, nightmare forgotten.

She studied his sleeping form, unable to suppress an appreciative smile. His hair was a bit tousled and he had one hand curled near his cheek; it made him look like a little boy for an instant. She longed to reach out and touch his handsome face, to see those golden amber eyes open to her gentle summons...

She remembered his anguish the night before and vowed to put her efforts into making this a good day for the young Captain. She crept to the kitchen and managed to put a pot of coffee on to brew, hoping the smell would draw him out of slumber. She sat across from the couch and watched him wake.

He made a few sleepy noises and tiny moans as he began to stir. Before he opened his eyes he stretched languorously, giving her a view of his long, lean body silhouetted under the sheet. She grinned at his natural grace, wishing wholeheartedly the sheet was not in the way of her study. Then, golden amber eyes appeared under those gorgeous dark lashes, nearly causing her to catch her breath. He looked so unguarded, so vulnerable in that single moment... she leaned a bit closer. He gazed around for a moment before seeing her there. He blinked twice, then gave her a smile that paled the dawn.

"Hey, sleepyhead," she said brightly, trying to slow her heart rate down. "How are you doing?"

"Mmm," he said as he stretched some more. "Not bad. I see you're an early riser."

"It's 0800 hours, sailor. Time to rise and shine. We have a busy day ahead."

"We... do?" he frowned in puzzlement.

"Well, if you want my company. You are free to go off by yourself, if you'd rather do that."

"Let's see," he said, rubbing his chin in contemplation, "either go around a strange town looking for things to do by myself, or spend the day with a beautiful local woman and monopolize her time. Hmm, let me think..."

"Beautiful, huh?" she teased. "You don't have to butter me up, Mister Crane. I already offered to show you around."

"Well, I wouldn't want to disrupt your plans. Let's spend the day together."

"Good. I've got coffee on and the bathroom's all yours if you wanted a shower before breakfast. I hope cereal and toast is okay this morning. There's some fresh fruit, too, but I am out of eggs and bacon and the like."

"Sounds wonderful. I think I will go get that shower."

"Your clothes are folded on the dryer," she said as he reached for a robe. "The blood came out just fine."

"Great. I'll be done in a few minutes."

Not too long afterwards she heard the shower start. She dedicated a moment of silence as she speculated on his current state of undress... With a wicked smile she licked her lips and began gathering things for breakfast. This was starting off to be a very good day.

He emerged washed and freshly shaved, an energetic spark in his eyes. He was looking forward to a long, entertaining day with Teal and was anxious to get going. The sight of her working in the kitchen made him pause for a while. Her hair was mussed, giving her an incredibly sexy disheveled look. Although her nightshirt was modest, the oversized tee only added to her appeal; the bare feet below had the unexpected effect of turning him on. Now, this could be a problem, he thought as he bit the inside of his cheek. You can't go letting your hormones run wild! She trusts you, don't blow it because of a lack of control!

He walked up behind her and touched her shoulder, making her jump in reaction as she gave a short cry. Her sea-blue eyes were wide with surprise as she spun around, the look on her face almost comical.

"Oh my God," she said dramatically, putting her hand over her heart, "are you trying to send me to an early grave?"

Lee laughed and apologized. "Sorry, ma'am," he said between snickers. "I thought you heard me."

"Captain Crane, sit down before I decide to rescind my offer," she said imperiously, not able to hide her grin completely. He gave her a saucy salute and did as directed. He chuckled as she finished her preparations, muttering under her breath the entire time.

His amusement continued as he watched her try to eat with her left hand. More milk ended up on her chin than in her mouth when she tried to eat her cereal. Her disgusted scowl in his direction only made him laugh more.

"This is not funny," she declared through gritted teeth. "I am liable to starve to death and you are sitting there laughing!"

"Want me to feed you?" he joked, waving his spoon at her. She rolled her eyes.

"And end up with more on my lap than in my stomach?" she demanded. "No, thanks!"

"Come on," he said as he rose from his chair. "I'm sorry for laughing. Let me help."

"I'm supposed to buy this?" she asked incredulously, realizing he was going to attempt it.

"Trust me," he said, waving the spoon again.

With a resigned sigh she relinquished her bowl. Carefully he scooped a spoonful of cereal and tried to keep a serious face as he held it towards her. Just when he opened his mouth to speak, she glared daggers at him.

"If I hear one 'choo-choo' out of you, Lee, I will jump up and strangle you with my bare hands."

That was all it took for him to dissolve into a fit of laughter. A full minute passed before he was collected enough to speak. "Would I do something like that?" he managed to say.

"I could see it in your eyes," she declared. She was delighted to see him having such a good time. It was obvious he needed to laugh... she imagined he did not do that much of it when on duty.

"Okay, seriously, let me do it."

Obediently she opened her mouth and gave him an 'I dare you' glare. Carefully he fed her the first spoonful, managing to dribble only a drop or two on her lips. The second one was delivered with perfect aim and she rewarded him with an approving smile. By the fifth mouthful something had changed. He was studying her mouth, watching the way her lips caressed the spoon, when he realized that if he didn't stop it soon, he would be sitting at the table for quite a while waiting for his traitorous body to calm down. If she noticed the odd look on his face, she didn't say anything, for which he was eternally grateful.

"I'm full," she said at last, wiping her mouth carefully. "Thank you, sir. Now I have to get cleaned up if we're ever going to get out of here."

It took her twice as long to take a shower because of her awkwardness. She'd removed the brace from her wrist and had discovered, the hard way, that pain came easily when she was careless and bumped into things. She considered washing her hair but figured it would be too difficult without help. She would have to call her friend Cindy and get her assistance tomorrow...

Getting dressed was a ridiculously difficult task. Her bra was her biggest dilemma, and it took her a good five minutes to figure out how to get it fastened and in place. She chose a cool cotton jumper, one that buttoned down the front, and spent another five minutes fumbling with the fastenings. By the time she grabbed a brush and tried to run it through her tangled hair her nerves were frayed. She was looking forward to keeping company with her handsome guest and the constant delays were frustrating. She came out of the bedroom with a scowl on her face.

Lee turned at the sound of her footsteps, an automatic smile lighting his face as he regarded her. She was wearing a form-fitting dress that was swirled with aquamarine and turquoise, a perfect compliment to her eyes. When he looked at those eyes, however, he knew something was wrong.

"Everything okay?" he asked tentatively.

"Do you have any idea how damn difficult it is to put on a bra with one good hand?" she said with irritation. "Or button up a stupid dress?"

"Ah, no, actually I don't-" he began, his face coloring a bit.

"Well, it's near impossible. I mean, I can't even get this brush through my hair!" she vented, not really directing her anger at him. Suddenly he felt a surge of guilt.

"I'm sorry about the wrist," he said quickly. "I know it's my-"

"No, no, it's not anyone's fault," she interrupted hurriedly, realizing how she must sound to Crane. "This is the frustration talking. I hate not being able to do things for myself. Sorry. I didn't mean to snap at you."

"Can I help at all?" he offered sincerely, relaxing a bit at her apologetic smile.

"Find me a pair of scissors so I can chop this mess off," she said, only half-joking. Lee's eyes widened at the thought and, before he could think of what he was doing, he took a step towards her.

"Oh, no, you can't! Don't cut your hair!" he said in a rush. "It's gorgeous! I mean..." he stopped, appalled at his outburst.

She stared at him, surprised at his vehemence. "I... you really think so?" she said a bit self-consciously, not expecting such a strong reaction.

He swallowed uncomfortably and tried to answer evenly. Pushing past his embarrassment, he said, "Um, yeah. There's not many, uh, women that have hair like yours. You know, the color and the way it curls and the length. I... think you should keep it the way it is."

She blinked at the compliment. "All tangles and rat's nests?" she finally said, conjuring a smile. He gathered a bit of courage and spoke.

"Can I help you brush it?"

She gazed at the sincerity of his offer and sighed. Forfeiting her brush to him she shrugged. "Sure, why not? Have you ever brushed tangles out of a woman's hair before?"

"Not really, no."

"Start near the ends... hold the section in one hand and brush below it. That way you don't pull. When the knots are gone from the ends, move up and brush some more until you have the whole section done."

"Okay. Just let me know if I am pulling too much," he said with a little hesitation.

"Don't worry. You'll know."

She sat down at the table and he began brushing as she had instructed. It was easier than he'd speculated and she didn't complain once. As the brush began to glide smoothly through the auburn strands, he reveled in their silky feel. Her hair was softer than he had imagined, the floral fragrance he'd noticed the day before still lingering in the tresses. He was enjoying the task immensely, concentrating of the marvelous texture and feel of it all. It had never occurred to him that brushing a woman's hair could be such a sensual experience. Suddenly he realized that he'd been brushing her hair far longer than had been necessary and he shot her a look to see her reaction. It was not what he expected.

Her eyes were closed, her head tilted back slightly, a look of pure pleasure on her face. Her expression was enough to stir a reaction in him, one that was totally inappropriate... Slowly she opened her eyes. There was a smoldering warmth behind their sea-blue color and he bit his lip in response.

"Thanks," she breathed with a genuine smile. "No one has done that in a long, long time."

"My pleasure," he heard himself say lowly. A second later he cringed as it registered how husky his voice had sounded. Damn, and double damn!

"No, mine. I confess I could spend a whole day letting someone do that." She drew herself up and gave a sigh. "Thanks again." She stood and put the brush on the table.

"Ready to go?" he asked, eager to change the subject.

"Ready, willing, and able, Captain!" she said smartly, seeming to snap out of her reverie. She gave him a dramatic salute that made him grin. 

iii 

"We can go to the Waterfront Festival today," she said as he locked the door. "There's a free trolley that goes there and back."

"Sounds fun. A trolley, huh?"

"Kind of old fashioned, I know, but it's a tradition we all love. Much more romantic than an old bus."

Romantic? he thought. Why would she put it that way?

"There will be tons of things to do there," she continued enthusiastically. "Music, dancing, arts and crafts, carnival rides and all kinds of food." They had moved down the hall towards the elevator when a door popped open to their left.

"Oh, hello, Mrs. B.!" Teal said with a grin and a wave. "How are you doing?" she asked as she stopped in front of the elderly woman.

"Oh, well, today the pain isn't so bad as it normally is," she began in a weary voice. She fixed her sharp gaze on Lee and he found himself squirming under her scrutiny. She looked the young man up and down, scowling as she appraised the stranger. Her eyes narrowed a bit when she saw the gauze bandage on his forehead and the slight bruising there.

"And who is this?" she said bluntly, staring him directly in the eye.

"This is Captain Lee Crane, a friend of mine. Lee, this is Mrs. Barton."

"Ma'am," he said as politely as he could.

"Captain, eh?" she said, frowning. "One of those Army fellows?"

"No, ma'am. Naval Reserves."

"Hmph," she said non-committally. She looked at his companion. "Isn't it a bit early to be going on a date, young lady?"

"Never, Mrs. B.," she said cheerfully, totally at ease with the woman. "Lee will be staying at my place for the rest of the week. He has shore leave and I will be showing him our town."

"Well," she said in a most disapproving tone, "I'm not sure that my rest needs to be disturbed by a wild sailor on leave! Why, it appears you've already been in a brawl, a drunken one, no doubt! I'll have you know-"

"No, ma'am, I'm not like that," he protested quickly. "I rarely drink-"

"Mrs. B.!" Teal scolded, her hand on her hip. "Lee had an accident yesterday and hit his head on a wall. He is a true gentleman and he deserves to be treated with respect. He is the Commander... of a submarine," she added pointedly. The transformation on the old woman's face was instantaneous.

"Why, my Frank served on a submarine during the Second World War!" she exclaimed. "He only had a brief tour before they sent him home, but he never stopped talking about it."

"Really?" Lee said, hoping he sounded interested. "Perhaps we could discuss it over coffee sometime."

"Coffee?" she sniffed. "That vile brew-"

"Mrs. B., would you mind if we stopped by tomorrow afternoon for tea, instead?" Teal interjected. "Lee has heard of our native hospitality here and I think it would be the least we could do for such a distinguished visitor."

Obviously, Lee noted, Teal knew exactly how to handle her neighbor. With kind deftness she had turned a potentially unpleasant situation into an invitation to socialize. He suppressed a chuckle.

"Why, I suppose you're right, dear. I don't know what's gotten into me. Perhaps it's the constant pain that my arthritis gives me, or the continuous upsetting of my delicate constitution... No matter." The white-haired figure stood a little straighter. With a new gleam in her eye she gave the Commander a bright smile. "I'll have to find Frank's old photos, I'm sure you will appreciate seeing them. Oh, my, and I must make those special cookies that you like, Teal dear."

"Don't go to any special trouble on my account, ma'am," Lee said with a smile.

"No trouble at all," she insisted, fluttering her hands about. "Well, I've a thousand things to do and I'll catch my death out here in this drafty hall. Go on and enjoy your day!" Teal nodded at her with a fond grin.

"Thanks, Mrs. B.. We'll see you tomorrow at teatime, then. Can I pick anything up while we're out?"

"No, dear, just have a fun time." She disappeared into her apartment as quickly as she had emerged. Lee couldn't help but laugh once the door was shut.

"Wow."

"She's a sweet, lonely lady that has a very kind heart beneath her parade of complaints. We have tea together almost every week and she will thoroughly enjoy entertaining you tomorrow. I hope you don't mind."

"Mind? Of course not. I was worried it was going to get ugly there for a moment."

"Nah. Her bark is worse than her bite. She's... a little overprotective at times. Trust me, you just passed the test."

"Thank goodness. I'd hate to have her as an enemy," he joked.

"She's also the main cog in the rumor mill. Better to be on her good side!" Teal took his offered arm and they resumed the journey. 

By the time they returned Lee felt pleasantly fatigued and was in better spirits than he had been in a long, long time. The day had been a whirlwind of color and activity and laughter and fun. Teal was uninhibited in her enthusiasm and he found himself caught up in her excitement. Even the trolley ride had been a joy, with her chattering along as they held onto the bar above. After a particularly sudden jolt he had reached out to steady her, holding her at the waist... and when she simply smiled up at him, he'd kept his arm exactly where it was. Funny how short the ride seemed after that.

He unlocked the door to the apartment and she trudged in, dumping her numerous packages onto the couch. Without hesitation she flopped down next to them and let out a satisfied groan of relief. He sank in the chair across from her and sat back.

"Tell me this is not a typical day for you," he said as he sighed.

"No. This was a particularly fun one, thanks to you."

"Me?" he asked. "I couldn't even win you one of those little stuffed animals you laughed at so much."

"I'm grateful for that. I was laughing at them because they were so darned ugly." She snickered at the image. "Such a shame to waste all that good fake fur on such things!"

"Well, I have to agree with you on the ugly part. Ugly, and cheap."

"Ugly and cheap and tacky," she amended gleefully.

"And we spent almost ten bucks trying to get one."

She beamed a smile at him.

"Yeah. But it was fun. I figure I had at least fifteen dollars worth of fun watching you get mad at a bunch of milk bottles."

"Well, I wouldn't say I got mad..."

She let out a delighted laugh and leaned forward.

"You were cursing them, the rings, the prizes and the carnival in general by the last round!"

"Cursing? Come on, I might have been muttering under my breath a little-"

"The carny was snickering at me while you were pitching. I think you made his day."

"All that and I didn't even win," he said, giving her a lopsided grin.

She paused, tilting her head slightly as she considered his statement. She spoke in a softer volume.

"Didn't you?"

He started to answer 'no' but stopped at her thoughtful tone. She's right, he realized. I guess I did win.

"It was fun," he admitted. "Just like the whole rest of the day." The answering light in her eyes sent a warm spark along his skin.

"Bingo," she said, scooting to the edge of the couch. "There's hope for you yet, Captain." She stood and gathered her purchases. "I'll put this away and make a phone call or two, if you don't mind. Then... maybe we can consider dinner plans?"

"Sounds good. Although as much as we ate today, I'm not sure where I'll put it!"

"Maybe we'll just have to work up an appetite," she said in an innocent tone as she moved down the hall.

I can think of a great way to do just that, came the thought unbidden to his mind. He shook his head as he dismissed it. Idiot. She's probably talking about another walk in the park! And you should be grateful to get that much! He turned the television on as a means of distraction and tried to relax a bit. 

iii 

With a frown Teal hung up the phone. Her call to her girlfriend Cindy had been fruitless... she was out of town, according to her fiancé, and would not be back for four days. Not being able to wash her hair would drive her mad before then... unless she could find someone else to help her. A wicked smile curled up on her lips when she wondered how Lee would react if she asked him to do it. Oh, he'd just spit and sputter and look so terribly uncomfortable, she speculated. Poor boy, I wonder how long it's actually been since he indulged in the sensual pleasures... hopefully not as long as me! Been, what, well over a year? Year and a half? She sighed. Maybe he'd be interested in a relaxing massage... that's always a good starting point.

She applied a bit of fresh lipstick and spritzed her hair with her favorite floral fragrance before exiting the bedroom. The words she had rehearsed went unspoken as she came into the living room.

Lee Crane, the object of her desire, was sound asleep. 

iii 

With an annoyed sigh she put down the pen and leaned back. Letter writing had not been the wisest choice to occupy her time; the injury to her hand had reduced her normally beautiful flowing script to childish scrawl. Teaching the calligraphy class... and the watercolor one, for that matter... might prove to be a real challenge. Well, she mused, I still have over two weeks to let it heal. She glanced over at the still-sleeping figure on the couch. But, however inconvenient, it was worth it, she decided with a grin. There was just no two ways about it: Lee was an extremely attractive man, and not just physically. His charm and humor were as appealing as his lean good looks; once he let go of that reserve he retreated behind she knew she'd be totally lost. His intelligence had shown through in the conversations they'd had during the day and she was looking forward to getting to know him better... in more ways than one.

Odd, that. She had dated off and on for the year and a half since her last serious relationship but had never found a man a fraction as appealing as Crane. She was not one to throw caution to the wind, yet her attraction to him was strong and undeniable. Her head was telling her that any sort of involvement could be a mistake, but her heart was screaming otherwise. And she had learned, the hard way, that ignoring her instincts only lead to misery. Now, if only she could get Lee interested in sharing her inclinations... oh, what a week it could be! 

iii 

Something was tickling his skin lightly and he roused out of sleep at the sensation. Absently he batted at it, vaguely wondering if it was a bug...

It returned, brushing his cheek ever so delicately, and he shook his head in annoyance as he came fully awake. He opened his eyes, expecting to find a flying nuisance. He blinked as he found Teal's smiling face there instead; she gave a small laugh as she brandished what he saw was a peacock feather.

"What the heck-?" he began, echoing her smile.

"Better than an alarm clock," she reasoned. "Time to wake up for dinner, lazybones."

"Hmm. Well, I have to say that's better than getting jolted out of a sound sleep from the warning claxon on board the boat," he said as he stretched the kinks out of his neck. "Are you always this silly to houseguests?"

"Silly? Me?" she asked with a wide-eyed innocent expression. "Why, sir, I don't know what you are talking about!"

"A feather," he said as his eyebrow arched in amusement. "Who but a silly woman would think of that?"

"Not just a feather," she sniffed in an offended tone. "A peacock feather, one reserved for visiting dignitaries and distinguished visitors. And lazybones submarine Captains."

"Ah. I see. That makes it all right, then. I wasn't aware it was such an honor."

"Now you know. I don't get this feather out for just anyone." She grinned. "Have a good nap?"

"Didn't even know I needed one. Guess I was more tired than I had thought."

"I think a lot of that tiredness came from before today," she said evenly, tilting her head just a bit.

He frowned for a moment.

"I suppose you're right. I haven't had a chance to relax... really rest... in a long while."

"Your job must involve a tremendous amount of pressure and stress."

"Mmm."

"Well, like I said before, I intend on making sure you forget about all that tension while you are here. If you'll cooperate."

"Cooperate?" he asked curiously at her statement.

"I have plans for you, Commander. Plans." Her impish look made him wonder for a split second. Despite himself he grinned at the scandalous images that sprang to his mind... Oh, he knew she didn't mean those kind of plans, but for a moment he allowed the fantasy to surface.

"Dinner," she declared as she watched a spark flash in his eyes. "Do you like Italian?"

"Love it," he assured her. "Although the last time I went to Venice I didn't get a chance to enjoy it like I would have wanted to."

"You must tell the tale over dinner," she said with a nod. "The place I have in mind is casual and very authentic. We can go anytime you're ready."

"Let me wash up and we can be off in a minute."

Lee noted the line in front of the restaurant with dismay. It looked to be at least an hour's wait, and his stomach was already growling. The smell from the kitchen made his mouth water and he understood why there was a crowd outside the door.

Teal looked unconcerned as she caught the eye of the waiter taking names on a list. With a smile that caused Lee's heart to miss a beat, she waved at the short, dark-haired man and was rewarded with a delighted hail.

"Bella!" he cried as she led Lee forward. "Been too long! Come, come in please. Marie is cooking tonight, she will want to say hello!"

A call to the kitchen preceded their arrival and before they had crossed the dining room a large, bright-eyed woman in a white apron bustled out to greet them. Lee found himself hugged and kissed on the cheek like he was a life-long acquaintance. Dazed and grinning he followed the woman through the busy kitchen and wondered at the enthusiasm the entire staff displayed at Teal's presence.

His companion did not utter a single word of Italian but seemed to understand all that was thrown in her direction, answering in a flurry of English as they continued their journey. Suddenly they were on the other side of the chaos, the quietness almost shocking. It was a private dining room, unoccupied for the moment.

"Sit," Marie insisted with a wide grin. "I must get Antonio."

Lee pulled out the chair for Teal, his display of courtesy generating an approving look from Marie as she moved away. He sat across from his dinner companion and shook his head dazedly.

"Family?" he ventured.

"No. I seem to have become the Molinari family tutor."

"But... you told me you were an art teacher." 

"I am. One of my students was Marco Molinari... Marie and Antonio's grandson. He knew no English and I helped him out. One thing led to another and I found myself teaching English to a whole bunch of the family. It's been, oh, a couple of years now." 

The older couple made an appearance, obviously delighted to have Teal and her companion in their restaurant. After a brief bit of conversation, they left to prepare a special dinner by their own hands. 

It was a meal the likes of which Lee had never experienced. Dish after delectable dish made their way to the table, each one more delicious than the last. Soft music and candlelight provided the perfect backdrop to the evening and he found himself opening up to Teal in ways he found surprising. He told her of his passion for the sea, his loyalty to both Admiral Nelson and his ideals, and his dedication to the Seaview and her crew. She, in turn, spoke of the pleasure and satisfaction of teaching and encouraging creativity in her students, both young and old. By the finish of the meal he reached for her hand and she took it easily, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. They exchanged smiles across the table and he bent forward to kiss her gently on her hand, an old-fashioned gesture that generated a warm glow in her sea-colored eyes.

Marie and Antonio adamantly refused payment for the fabulous meal, sending the couple off into the balmy night with smiles and good wishes. 

The walk home was all too brief for Lee's liking. He was loathe to let the ambiance go and he managed to delay the inevitable by suggesting they sit for a while in the small park near her place. The bench overlooked a tiny fountain surrounded by early summer flowers; at this time of night the area was deserted save for a few stray wandering couples. The two sat quietly for a couple of minutes while Lee worked up his courage. He knew that the whole evening's magic could be shattered by a wrong move and he wanted dearly to avoid such a mistake. Still, he felt compelled to approach her in a physical way he hadn't dared before. 

He tried several different lines in his mind, dismissing each one in turn. Finally, as he drew in a breath to speak, it all became moot. Teal leaned over, placed a delicate hand behind his head, and drew him downward. He barely had time to study her face before she initiated a kiss, his eyes shutting in response to the sensations. 

Her kiss was sure and firm, lacking aggression but fueled by a marked interest. Gently he responded, tasting her lips with more intensity than their first embrace the night before. She moved forward, deepening it slightly, encouraging him to continue what she had started. 

He placed a hand on her back and drew her even closer. Without breaking contact he intensified the kiss, daring to make the first tentative exploration with his tongue. Instead of resistance, she accepted his intrusion with a measured enthusiasm, parting her lips with little hesitation. An electric thrill as contact was made... 

Sweet, he thought as he reveled in the unexpected sensation. So sweet...  

Mon Dieu, this boy can kiss! Teal managed to think as the seconds ticked by. Girl, you are in trouble now. 

With an immense amount of willpower Lee ended the kiss. Just as reluctantly Teal drew back as well, almost afraid to look into those golden amber eyes.  

Silence for a dozen heartbeats. 

Lee found himself grinning at her like a Cheshire cat, knowing his reaction was less than mature but unable to help himself. Teal stared at him, then allowed a similar look to blossom on her own face. Suddenly his bones threatened to melt at the look of pleasure behind her eyes. 

Lee felt a flush color his cheek and he touched it self-consciously. He cleared his throat and spoke in a wry voice. 

"Oh lord, look at this. I can't believe I'm actually blushing. I... feel like a teenager." 

"You sure don't kiss like one," she declared, the spark in her eyes punctuating her words.

"Um... thank you." 

"Perhaps... it's my turn now," he said softly, moving close again. Gathering her in his arms he drew her to him, capturing her mouth before she could speak. He kissed her eagerly, savoring her sweet welcome as she offered no resistance. When a tiny moan escaped her throat it thrilled him to his very core; the surge of passion it generated threatened to sweep away the last vestiges of sensibility.  

Somehow, he retained control. It was not easy. 

The embrace left both of them breathing deeply as they drew apart. Teal shook her head as her awareness settled back down to earth, wondering about the incredible response he had conjured in her. Never, not even in her most serious relationships, had she felt such a compelling call to passion.  

Lee's thoughts solidified slowly, the chaos of sensations calming down by degrees. I... must stop, he declared desperately to himself. Must remain in control... it's too soon, I'd be taking advantage of her...but I can't seem to put a restraint on these feelings... 

The unconscious flicker of a frown across Lee's handsome face told Teal she had taken things far enough that night. He still had doubts, and if a physical relationship were ever to work, she needed him to be certain. She wanted no regrets, no apprehensions. As much as her desire and her body told her otherwise, she knew she had to stop it for now. With a regretful sigh she stood up and took the slightest step backwards. Although it pained her to say it, she spoke to the man before her. 

"Well, it's been... a busy day. Thanks for, for tonight. For all of it." His answering expression was an odd mix of relief and frustration. 

"You too. I had a wonderful time. I suppose we should be getting back now. It's late." 

"And tomorrow will come early," she agreed. He took her hand and within a few minutes they were crossing the threshold of her apartment.  

She gave him a reserved smile as she said her good-nights; moving close she stood on her toes and gave him a chaste kiss on the cheek, wishing him sweet dreams and good rest. He echoed her sentiments and repaid her kiss with one of his own, placed on her hand as he had done in the restaurant.  

Alone, finally, he wondered how he would ever calm his charged body enough to find peace that night. Strangely enough, fifteen minutes later, he was well into the sleep patterns that led to dreaming. 

iii 

The warmth flowed over him, around him, through him... 

With a wrenching cry he emerged from the dream, sweating in reaction and sitting bolt upright. A few shuddering breaths later he realized where he was... and how such a stimulating dream had affected him. With a grimace and a glance at the far door at the end of the hall, he wondered in dismay if Teal would wake up at the sound of a shower... a very cold shower. 

iii 

His hands, his mouth, his... 

Dark. 

The green glow of a digital clock shone in her eyes, it's steady light bringing her back to mundane awareness. Oh, God, she thought, how could that have been a dream? She sat up in her bed, biting her lip against the memories. Wow. If reality is half as good as that was... Teal shivered in frustrated delight. No two ways about it, she had to get Lee... interested. She said a silent prayer for inspiration and settled back down in a futile attempt at sleep. 

Lee woke to sunshine streaming in his eyes. He was vaguely surprised to discover he had been able to find sleep... the way he had been wound up he shouldn't have been anywhere near it. He let out a deep sigh as he remembered the dream. Normally they faded as soon as he woke, but he could recall details with a temperature-raising ease. The sensation of that warm waterfall enveloping his body as she caressed his skin... He angrily bit his cheek as his body stirred. Where the heck was that famous Crane control? Why, he was known for his solidity and discipline under adverse conditions! Then again, said the little voice in the back of his mind, these are not exactly adverse conditions. She might be willing, if you make the first move. Or did you get amnesia about that kiss she started last night? 

He frowned. She had seemed genuinely interested in physical contact but had put an end to it after the kiss. Was she having second thoughts? He desperately wanted to avoid causing bad feelings between the two; if he read things into the situation that weren't there, it could be a costly mistake. 

His thoughts were interrupted by a noise coming from her room. He quickly got up, donned his robe, and tried to look... casual. A minute later she emerged, blinking sleepily as she navigated the hall. His heart skipped a beat as he saw her Hawaiian print nightshirt; the colors were so like the wrap she'd worn in the dream that it sent a shiver up his spine. Although this garment covered her from neck to knees, he found himself having to avert his eyes from staring at her hungrily. 

"G'mornin'," she mumbled as she gave him a sleepy smile. She headed into the bathroom and did not see his expression. 

Seeing her so disheveled, smiling in that sleepy, easy way, had nearly been his undoing. Was that the way she'd look after making love? he wondered silently. Lee Benjamin Crane, if you don't stop this fantasizing you will be headed for disaster! Leave the poor woman alone! He sighed. He needed a distraction. He went into the kitchen, deciding to make breakfast for the both of them. He found a box of pancake mix and began gathering ingredients.  

She joined him after a few minutes, much more awake but still a bit unkempt. 

"Pancakes?" she said, a delighted grin on her face. "A man who can cook! I love it!" 

"Don't make any judgements until you actually eat my cooking," he warned with a matching smile. "I am not known for my culinary skills." 

"I'm sure it will be wonderful. Although I think I should be doing breakfast... you are the guest here, you know." 

"Just part of our agreement," he countered. "I promised to help out because of your wrist. It's the least I can do." 

"In that case, the kitchen is yours, sir." She watched him as he measured out some milk in a cup; an image of a dark-haired pirate sprang to mind and she nearly blushed, glad he was not paying attention to her. She peered at him, trying to imagine what he'd look like with longer hair and some better clothing... sexier clothing, anyway. Those white silk pajamas were not the most appealing things she'd ever seen. Didn't he own anything with color in it?  

"Uh... something wrong?" she heard him ask curiously. She kicked herself mentally; he had caught her staring at him and she felt like a fool. 

"No, sorry, was just lost in thought there for a second." She cleared her throat. "Were you saying something?" 

"I was wondering if you had any plans for today." 

"We have an engagement at 4 this afternoon. Other than that, my book is open." 

"At 4:00?" he asked, trying to recall. "Oh, yes, that tea thing with your neighbor." He cringed, just a bit. 

"I can always call and cancel, tell her you aren't feeling well." 

"Nah, she seems like she could use some company. Besides, I'm used to sitting through things I would rather not be at. Part of the glorious job of being Captain. At least it's not formal." 

"You're sweet to give her some time. I think she'll talk about you for months to come." 

"Well, besides the tea, what would you like to do today?" he asked, hoping she would not want to do activities alone. 

"I need to do some grocery shopping down at the open market," she said. "Maybe pick up a few things for dinner. Wanna come?" 

"Sure, why not? Someone has to help you carry your stuff." 

"As for the rest of the day... I like to keep things open. Never know what might crop up spontaneously." 

He liked the sound of that but made no comment. 

Soon the breakfast was ready and he put the pancakes on the table. 

"Well, the last ones aren't too bad, but those first two are kinda... dark," he said by way of an apology. 

"I've never met a pancake that was so bad that maple syrup couldn't fix it." She reached for the syrup pitcher. "God, I love this stuff." 

Seeing her awkwardness he lifted it for her and came to her side to pour. 

"Lee, I am not an invalid!" she said, giving him a scowl. 

"Part of my duties," he said smoothly. "As a matter of fact, I think I shall resume my feeding routine." 

"Feeding routine?" 

"Of course. Remember yesterday?" 

She blushed. 

"Well, I, ah..." 

"Please," he said, half-serious. Teal found herself nodding in agreement. 

He gave her a pleased smile and moved his chair next to hers.  

"Okay, tell me how much syrup you want here," he said as he began to pour the thick liquid on her plate. She watched patiently, ignoring his odd look as he continued pouring. 

"Um, tell me when to stop," he reminded her. She nodded and licked her lips. Finally, when a good bit of syrup had pooled on the plate, she told him that was enough. 

"You really do like this stuff," he declared, a bit surprised. "Wow." 

"Are you kidding? Pancakes are merely an excuse to eat maple syrup. I thought everyone knew that." 

He snickered. 

"Ah. I was wondering how you kept up all that energy. Now I know your secret." 

"One of them, anyway." 

He shifted a bit at the very thought of what other secrets she harbored, then focused on the job at hand. He cut a section of the stack and stabbed it with a fork. He began raising it towards her mouth when she held up a hand. 

"Just how big do you think my mouth is, Lee?" she said with an arched eyebrow. He considered a dozen answers before he realized it would be a bad idea to answer at all. 

"Sorry, I wasn't thinking," he offered diplomatically. He cut the section in half and, at her nod of approval, brought the fork to her lips once again. She took the piece and closed her eyes as she tasted the maple flavor on her tongue. Automatically she smiled, savoring in the sweetness. 

Lee stared, caught off guard by the sensual expression on her face. A heat stirred within him, and he knew he should stop this silly game... but he found he couldn't. He took another piece from her plate and waited until she opened her incredible blue-green eyes, now bright with pure pleasure. She smiled broadly and opened her mouth wide, ready for the next piece. Suddenly the temperature went up ten degrees in the small kitchen and he tried desperately to calm down. For God's sake, they were just pancakes! he scolded himself. This is absurd! He watched her do a little wiggle as she ate the second mouthful.  

"I love this stuff," she said with an unabashed grin. "Soak that next piece in the syrup more. Like a sponge," she suggested with a spark of delight in her eye. 

He did so, wishing to see that pleasure again. He held the dripping piece to her mouth and nearly accomplished the task before a large droplet of syrup landed on her lower lip. She reached up to catch it when his hand darted out with lightning speed.  

"Allow me," he heard himself say in a low tone. She froze, wondering at his actions. 

He leaned close, closer, until he bent the last fraction of an inch and kissed her hungrily, licking the syrup off of her lip and tasting the sweetness that lingered in her mouth. She remained immobile for precisely three seconds before she moved forward with matched enthusiasm. The kiss intensified rapidly, all sense of restraint vanished from their minds. 

Breakfast forgotten, they embraced each other, fueled by mutual desire and the echoes of their dreams of the night before. Teal found herself standing without remembering getting up; her hands could feel the broad planes of his muscled back through his robe and she clenched at the soft material beneath her fingers. 

Lee entwined one hand in her luxurious hair, holding her head in his grasp. His other hand ran down the curve of her back, reveling in the sensation of her voluptuous form. There was a heat that had possessed him beyond all hope of control... but he couldn't care. For once in his life he didn't want control. 

Time was suspended as they allowed their passions to surface. Her fire matched his, and she pressed close, discovering the physical evidence of his growing desire. She moved ever so slightly and was answered with a reactionary shiver that ran through his body. He pulled back with a gasp, as if it took the greatest effort to do so. 

"Teal," he breathed huskily, "I..." 

"Fulfill your promise, Lee," she interrupted.  

"My... promise?" he asked in a shaky voice. 

"You said you would help me do things around the house because of my injured hand. Please... help me wash my hair." Her voice was soft with desire and supplication. 

He blinked, unsure of what she'd suggested. She tilted her head ever so slightly. 

"Unless I missed my guess, you haven't gotten a shower this morning, either." 

"I... it would be the least I could do," he agreed in a hopeful daze. 

"Come on, then." 

With that, she kissed him again and led him by the hand to the spacious bathroom. She turned on the shower and, as steam began to fill the room, removed the robe from Lee's tense body. 

"You want this, don't you?" she asked at his odd look, needing to be sure. 

"I want this more than you can ever know," he answered, realizing it was completely true. 

"Good. Me, too."  

She reached for the hem of her nightshirt but was stopped by his hand. He gathered the material in his own grasp and gently lifted the garment off, pulling it over her head in a slow, anticipatory way. She stood before him wearing only emerald green lace-edged panties, which hugged her curves in a most captivating way. The sudden rush of heat made him swallow hard and she smiled at his obvious reaction. Moving near him, she undid the snaps of his pajama bottoms and slid the silk to the floor, noting the plain white briefs that were all that stood between her and his flesh. Declining to comment, she grinned up at him and hugged him tightly. 

The feel of her flesh against his own released a new wave of desire and delight. He slid his hands along her hips and pushed the scrap of emerald fabric down. God, her skin is so soft, he cried mentally. I can't believe this is happening! He felt her rid him of his last piece of clothing and knew he was a lost man. 

iii 

"Look at my hands," she said as she stared at her fingers. "They look like prunes!" 

"Well, that was a longer shower than you had expected," he said as he wrapped her hair in a towel. "Either one of us had expected," he amended. 

"Lord, a lot longer," she returned with a luminous smile. "Thank you for your... help." 

"Oh, any time," he said sincerely, a wicked grin following the path of his words. "I'd say that we work well together." 

"Most definitely. Quite a team. This bears looking into further, Commander." 

"Agreed." 

"Well, for starters, maybe you could brush my hair, now that it's so very clean." 

"Hmm. And then?" 

"Maybe help me get dressed. I am not very good at doing zippers and the dress I laid out for today has a rather tricky one." 

"Well, I will do my best." 

She grinned up at him with a hungry gleam in her eyes. 

"Sounds like a promise," she said as she wrapped a towel around her body. 

He bent down and kissed her again. 

"Count on it," he whispered playfully in her ear. He was rewarded with a pleased sigh.

 "Are you having trouble with that darned zipper or what?" Teal said as she felt Lee's fingers tug at the metal. 

"Yeah," he said softly. "I can't seem to make the zipper decide if it wants to go up... or down." 

"Mmm. What do you think?" 

"I think I should start all over from the beginning." 

She hid a shiver of anticipation. In a serious voice she said, "The beginning is always an excellent place to start. You should go with your instincts." 

"Okay, then, let's start over." 

"Hey!" she said as she turned around a moment later. "I thought you were going to re-do the dress!" 

"Well," he answered matter-of-factly, " the bra didn't look quite right. Uneven straps, I think. Best to be sure, must do a thorough job." 

"I like your way of thinking, sir. Proceed." Her somber tone dissolved into a burst of giggles as he continued his inspections.

iii 

"Mmm... Lee, it's four soon." 

"Four?" he said as he rolled her over. "No, this'd be three, right?" 

"O'clock!" she said with a gentle shove to his shoulder. Seeing his incomprehension, she sighed. "Our tea with Mrs. B.?" 

"Aw, geez, I forgot," he mumbled with an unhappy frown. 

"Well, you have been otherwise occupied," she grinned. "We need to put this on hold until later." 

"Holding sounds good," he said mischievously, nibbling her earlobe. She squirmed delightedly but pushed him away after a bit. 

"First the tea, then... we'll see." 

"This is going to be the longest tea time in history, isn't it?" 

"It won't be that bad," she assured him. "Besides, if you behave yourself, there might be a reward in it for you afterwards." 

"Better be a good one," he muttered. He hated the idea of leaving the little oasis of paradise they'd created. 

"Have I let you down so far?" she challenged, crossing her arms. 

"Oh, no," he said with a smile. "Definitely not!" 

"Well then, Captain, you will just have to trust me." 

"All right. I suppose we should get dressed now," he said with a total lack of enthusiasm.  

"Now, Lee, don't get grumpy on me! Just think of it as an opportunity to undress each other later." She wiggled her eyebrows and he laughed at her impish grin. 

iii 

"And here is the picture of Frank and the rest of the crew in front of the submarine," the older woman said as she showed the photograph to the Commander. 

He took the offered picture and studied it closely. When he spoke there was a genuine interest in his voice. 

"It looks about a fifth of the size of the Seaview!" he exclaimed. "These guys were true pioneers back then. The quarters were so tight... took a strong man to serve on one of these." 

Mrs. Barton beamed. "Oh, my, yes. Why, when I think of what my poor Frank had to endure! He should have gotten a medal just for agreeing to sail around in that... that sardine can. I never understood why he loved it like he did." 

"Oh, I can," Lee said softly. "There's something about a submarine..." 

Teal watched the expression on Lee's face change to one of obvious fondness. She smiled at his look, knowing he was unaware of her scrutiny. He gets more appealing by the hour, she thought as she watched him interact with Mrs. B.. It's a wonder he doesn't have a girl in every port. At that thought, she stopped. But... maybe he does, she said as she considered it. He says he doesn't indulge in much of a social life, but he certainly is not a novice in the passion department! Surely there are a dozen women dreaming of his electric touch... and of his incredible kisses. Teal, you are one lucky gal. Living a dream, if only for a week! 

"Teal, dear, did you say you wanted more tea or not?" The voice penetrated her musings and she felt a tiny blush creep up her face. 

"No, thank you, Mrs. B.," she said as evenly as she could. "I will probably slosh all the way back as it is! I love the new blend." 

"I had it custom blended at the Tea Emporium. I wanted our little tea to be special, in honor of our distinguished visitor." 

Lee looked uncomfortable as he said, "Really, ma'am, I'm not very-" 

"Tut, tut!" she declared with a wave of her hand. "Why, Myra will be green with envy when I tell her I had you as a guest in my home. The Commander of a submarine! Hmph, I've been itching to out-do her since she had that snobby professor from the University over for that dreadful dinner party." 

"But you didn't even go to that party," Teal said with a frown. "How could you know it was dreadful? Or the professor, snobby?" 

"I could tell right away. Imagine, sharing an evening with someone who digs up bones for a living! Disgraceful." 

"Professor Martinson is a paleontologist," Teal explained diplomatically. "And from what I hear, he is a well respected man in the community and in demand by the University students. Now, Mrs. B., you aren't saying that having Lee here is just a way to top Mrs. Fletcher, are you?" 

The woman looked horrified and more than a bit flustered. 

"Oh, why no, of course not! I was just... oh, Captain, please forgive an old woman her foolishness. I didn't mean to imply-" 

"No offense taken, ma'am." He said the words with an easy smile that made her relax, just a bit. 

"Mrs. B., might I have another of those cookies? You know how I love them," Teal said hopefully. 

"Of course, dear," she said as she got to her feet. "I'll just be a second. Captain, can I get you anything else?" 

"No, I'm fine, thank you." 

When the white-haired woman had moved out of the room, Teal leaned over and stole a kiss from Lee. She grinned and he wondered at the gleam in her sea-colored eyes. Leaning even closer, she whispered something in his ear. 

Lee Crane blushed hotly and remained perfectly still as his mind registered what she'd just proposed. The mental image of what she'd mentioned was... was... 

"Here you are, Teal dear. I packed the rest of them to be sent with you. Captain Crane, are you feeling all right?" 

"I'm afraid he's developed a headache, Mrs. B.. Would you mind if we left a little early?" Amazingly, her expression was one of complete innocence. Lee could only stare. 

"No, of course not. You young people have indulged an old woman's whims long enough for one day. Why, look at the time! I'm sure you have other plans today." 

"Thank you for having us over," Teal offered as she stood. "I think I will take care of the Commander and let him rest a while." 

Lee shivered at her choice of words and knew she had put it that way just to tease him. It had worked. Take care of the Commander... Lord, how am I going to survive this week? he asked himself. Two seconds later he had to fight to suppress the wicked, hungry grin that tried to surface. He gave a silent prayer of thanks for the years of military discipline he'd endured, knowing it was the only thing that allowed him to school his expression.  

Soon they said their good-byes and headed for Teal's door. She didn't look at him once, a little smirk dancing on her lips. The instant they were into the apartment, however, he grabbed her by the shoulders and spun her to face him, a devilish glint in his eyes. Without preamble he kissed her long and thoroughly, enjoying the response he got. 

"You... weren't serious, were you?" he asked in a slightly ragged voice. 

"Absolutely serious," she said playfully. "Why, Lee, I do believe you're still blushing! Surely... this isn't a new thing for you." At his uncomfortable look she added, "Is it? Are you telling me no one has ever-" 

"Um, not actually, no," he said, his embarrassment pushing his desire aside. "You see, most women find that, ah,-" 

"Never mind," she said, holding her hand up. "I understand. Well, I am not most women. If you'll permit me, sir, I would like to seduce you properly and reward you for a job well done at the tea." 

"Er... ah, permission granted," he said as she took his hand and led him to the couch. 

iii 

Dinner that evening was delivered Chinese; neither one was inclined to get dressed to go out to eat. They sat on the floor at the coffee table and spread out the feast, the aroma of the meal enough to make their mouths water.  

"Here, gimme some of that gai pan," Teal instructed as she eyed the dish next to his plate.  

"Ah, ah... what's the magic word?" Lee teased. With a devilish grin she sent him a whispered word. He blinked once, then twice. Did she just say- 

"Well, that might not be the word you were looking for." She grinned at his shock. 

'Oh, well, no, it's a perfectly fine word," he said as he tried to keep his voice nonchalant. "I was expecting to hear 'please'..." 

"Want me to beg, do you?" she said without breaking stride. He saw the very naughty look on her face and drew a breath. 

"That's not necessary, I- " 

She inhaled deeply and changed her expression to one of desperate supplication. "Oh, Captain Crane, honored sir, please let me partake of but a small morsel of your food... I will do anything you wish, if only for a single bite!" 

He chuckled at her performance. She dramatically clasped her hands and moved around the table on her knees. 

"But for a tiny taste I will trade all that I have to offer, humble as it is. Please, I beg of you, allow me a scrap and I shall be yours in any way you wish!" 

"Oh?" he said, enjoying the game, "and exactly what to you have to offer?" 

"Only myself, I'm afraid." He snickered as she lowered her eyelashes in mock bashfulness. 

"Hmm," he said as he measured her with a long glance. In an imperious voice he said, "There does seem to be some merit to your form..." 

"I will be yours to command if only for a bite!" she cried theatrically, lowering her head to the floor. 

"Arise, woman. Perhaps you would care to earn that morsel." 

"Oh, kind sir, please allow me to do so. I'll do... anything," she declared breathlessly. 

Suddenly Lee realized exactly how interesting the little game had become. Silly as it was, it was beginning to generate a response he knew he could not ignore for long. Seeing the gleam in her eye as she tried to remain humble in her assumed role, he found the heat that posessed him growing quickly. 

"Anything? Such as what?" 

By way of an answer she moved her lips close to his ear and brushed the lobe with warmth. Then, in the barest volume of a voice she repeated the word that had struck him so strongly not minutes before. He had just drawn a breath for a response when she placed a kiss behind his ear... then one along the side of his neck... then another in the hollow of his collarbone... 

Food forgotten for the moment, Teal set about earning her morsel. 

iii 

"Awesome gai pan," she declared with a final lick of her lips. She put her chopsticks down with a flourish and a grin. "Thanks for sharing." 

"My pleasure completely," he said in earnest as he sat back. "I've..." 

"You've what?" she asked curiously when he didn't continue. 

"I've never done that before... the game thing, I mean." He looked a tad embarrassed. "I always thought it sounded sort of foolish." 

"And now?" 

"It doesn't seem so silly now." 

"Lee," she said as she took his hand and turned serious, "it's really okay to let yourself indulge in foolishness now and again. Look at your job, your lifestyle... if you can't figure out how to let off a little of that pressure you'll end up killing yourself with stress. Trust me on this. It's okay to be silly! It doesn't mean you are irresponsible or immature." She cocked her head slightly and watched the small frown on his face as he considered it. 

"I've... never given it that much thought." 

"I'm sure they don't teach that at Annapolis. Maybe they should." She gazed at his face for a moment as a thought occurred to her. "You are pretty young to be the Captain of a submarine, aren't you?" 

"Youngest in the Navy," he said matter-of-factly. There was no trace of arrogance in his voice, though he had every right to be proud. 

"You must have come a long way in a short while, then. I would imagine there was not a lot of spare time for goofing off and playing around. For just being... young." 

"It... no. I guess not." 

"It's never too late to have a happy childhood," she declared with a spark in her eyes. "Never too late to have fun." 

"I'm beginning to see that now." 

"Good. We shall keep working on that. I trust you have no objections?" 

"None whatsoever, ma'am," he grinned at her. 

His first conscious thought was that the boat was not moving. Instantly alert, he snapped open his eyes and began to rise... only to find himself in a bed that was not his own. For a brief moment he was puzzled, but when his mind registered warmth along his right side he smiled. He turned slightly to see the sleeping woman beside him and regarded her with an even larger smile. She was curled up next to him, her hair a wild, loose mess spilling across the pillow. He watched her lips move slightly, and wondered what she was dreaming of. He wanted desperately to reach over and caress her cheek, to draw her out of slumber with his touch... but he was loathe to disturb such peace.

He carefully turned around so he could observe her. Her unkempt appearance was both sexy and innocent at the same time. The morning light caressed her skin, lending a glow to her body that made Lee bite his lower lip in appreciation. He'd known beautiful women before but none could quite compare with her. He realized it wasn't just her face or form that was so appealing... she had a warmth of spirit and a joy for life that was rare, and her humor and honesty were genuine. He marvelled at her success at making him laugh so often in the short time they'd known each other. It was easy to feel comfortable in her presence, something nearly alien in his experience with women.

Teal made a small noise and moved ever so slightly. He continued to watch her, a fondness growing with each passing minute. After a series of stirrings she finally gave a soft sigh and opened her sea-colored eyes. The look of delight that crossed her face when she saw him watching her made his heart skip a beat. Desire blossomed and grew as she smiled sleepily at him. She reached for him at once and he snuggled back down with her, wrapping her in his arms and giving her a gentle kiss.

"G'mornin, Lee," she murmured.

"Good morning, gorgeous."

"How long have you been watching me sleep?" she asked in a curious voice.

"Just a little while."

"Please tell me I wasn't drooling or snoring or anything."

He chuckled. "Trust me, you were the picture of angelic perfection."

She giggled and rolled her eyes. "You've been too long at sea if you believe that, sailor."

"Truth is truth."

"How did you sleep?" she asked as she brushed her hand along his jawline. A spark followed her touch.

"I slept just fine. No nightmares for a change."

"I'm glad," she said sincerely.

"Feel like breakfast?" Lee asked as he began to feel a surprisingly heated response to her nearness.

"Mmm. What are you in the mood for?"

With a predatory grin he said, "You."

Wide eyes blinked at his statement for several seconds before a broad smile washed across her face. She could not suppress a giggle as he nibbled playfullly at her nose, her lips, her chin...

"You must be really hungry," she commented as he turned his attention to her earlobes.

"Famished."

"Are you sure you wouldn't rather have waffles or something?" she asked a bit breathlessly as he continued with new vigor.

"Later," he mumbled. "Desert first..."

With a pleasured sigh she gave up all hopes of verbal conversation and drew him even closer. 

iii 

"I was thinking of seeing the parade downtown and then going on a picnic for the afternoon," Teal said as they finished up the breakfast dishes.

"Haven't been on a picnic for... for..."

"Way too long. I know this isolated farm where there are acres of wildflowers to enjoy. I have special access, it's private property so we should be alone."

"How are we going to get to this isolated farm?"

"How does a motorcycle sound?"

"Great! I love riding bikes, though I never get much of a chance to do it."

"Today is your lucky day, then. The parade starts at 11:00 and won't take more than an hour. I've got a bunch of my kids marching with the junior band and I'd love to see them. The Water Festival Parade is always a ton of fun. You'll love it." She gave him an excited grin. "While we're downtown we can pick up stuff for the picnic and go from there. How does that sound?"

"It sounds just like what the doctor ordered. Count me in." He bent down and stole a kiss.

"If we're going to do all that, we'd better get moving. You want a shower first or should I hop on in?"

"How about both? We could save time that way," he said with amusement in his amber eyes.

She shook her head at his sly suggestion. Talk about a fast learner! she mused. "I think it won't save a single second's worth of time... but I suppose we could test it out to be sure." 

iii 

"There are sure a lot of people here." Lee frowned at the throngs of parade watchers.

"Yeah, isn't it great?" she replied with enthusiasm. "This is too fun. Oh, look, here come the floats! Don't the girls look beautiful up there?"

"A bit young for me," he said as he squeezed her hand. "I prefer women to girls." 

She waved to the smiling group. "They look like storybook princesses! Look, there's a mermaid float. Oh, they did a terrific job with the scene! The way the light hits off of the foil, it looks like they're underwater... wow." Teal saw the way the teenage girls in the sequined costumes were looking at her companion. "Wave at them, Lee!" 

He did, although he was a bit uncomfortable at first. When the girls broke into wide grins and giggles of delight he couldn't help but to send a smile back to them. Teal laughed at his surprise when one of them blew him a kiss. Although he blushed a bit, he laughed with her and felt himself getting into the spirit of the event. 

He was still smiling when the last of the bands came marching by. Teal grabbed his arm and pointed. 

"Oh my gosh, here they are! My kids! I think I must know half of them there..." She waved at the young marchers, catching the attention of quite a few of them. The look of pride on their faces was wonderful to see. It was obvious she was a well-loved and popular teacher. 

"Hey Ms. Perkins!" a boy on drums called out, waving one of his sticks in greeting. 

"Hey Sean! You sound wonderful!" she called back. "I'll meet you at the end of the parade, okay?" The nine-year old nodded and resumed his musical duties with a grin. 

"I hope you don't mind, we're only a block away from the end of the route. They could use the support," Teal said to her companion with enthusiasm on her face. There was no way Lee could deny her request. 

iii 

The area was one of chaos and laughter. Lee had never seen such colorful confusion and had to shake his head in amusement.  

"Oh! There they come, let's move closer," she said as she pulled the tall man along. 

"Ms. Perkins!" a small blond girl with glasses squealed excitedly. Soon Teal was surrounded by a dozen or so young musicians, all speaking at once. Laughing, she held up a hand and raised her voice to be heard over the din. 

"Okay, you little monsters, calm down! Wow, you all sounded terrific out there! Best junior band in the whole parade, no doubt about it. I can tell you practiced hard... you ought to be proud today!" 

"Hey Ms. Parker, who's that guy?" a little brunette wearing pigtails demanded, peering critically at Lee. 

"He's a friend," she began. 

"A boyfriend!" drummer Sean cried in delight. There was a chorus of oohs and aaahs as the group focused on one hapless submarine captain. 

The blond girl giggled and tugged at Teal's dress. "He's cute!" she whispered loudly, dissolving into a fit of laughter at Lee's look of bewilderment. 

"Yeah, I think so," Teal replied conspiratorially. "And he's super nice, too." 

Lee shifted uncomfortably, not used to the company of children, especially such bold ones. A tallish dark-haired boy spoke from the back. 

"Ms. Parker, did you kiss him?" There was a wave of giggles and snickers. 

Undaunted, Teal wrinkled her nose up and said in a semi-stern voice, "That, Robert, is none of your business. Asking such a personal questions is rude, don't you think?" 

"Sorry, Ms. P." He cast his eyes to the concrete and looked genuinely contrite. 

"This is Captain Crane, and he is visiting our town for a while." 

"Captain? You got a boat?" Robert said as he looked up eagerly. 

Lee grinned at his interest; he remembered being enamoured of boats as a young child, something he never outgrew. 

"Sure do... it's a submarine." 

At that, there was a ripple of excitement that ran through the children. Suddenly he was besieged with questions and demands for stories and pleas to see the sub... 

Teal stood back and watched with a grin. When Lee looked at her for help she just shrugged her shoulders and left him on his own. Sure enough, he began to relax as he answered the questions. After ten minutes or so she called the interrogation to a halt. 

"All right, you little demons, leave the Captain alone now. You all have to be getting home and we have plans." 

"A date?" came a teasing voice from one of the boys. 

"A picnic, if you must know, Brian." The boy shrunk a little when she identified him. "Now tell Captain Crane goodbye and thank him for answering your questions." 

There was a chorus of good-byes and thank-yous from the children as they began to disperse. Robert hung around a bit and Lee addressed him. 

"Robert, right? You seem interested in boats. That true?" 

"I love them, I've studied about all kinds in the library," he said, a light in his brown eyes.  

"Hmm. How are your math and spelling skills?" 

"Well, they're okay... studying that stuff is kinda boring." 

"You know, when I was your age I felt the same way... but I made a real effort in math and science and English class so I would be able to work on a boat. You need those skills to become a captain like me. Maybe you'll end up with a boat all your own someday. But it's a lot of hard work, a lot of studying and discipline." 

"Gee, I didn't think it'd take all that stuff." 

"I use math for navigation, I need to know all about oceanography and map-reading and how to write clearly for the ship's logs. Those are skills I have to rely on every day." 

"I think Robert would make a great captain," Teal said as she ruffled the boy's hair affectionately. "He's bright, a quick learner... though he does tend to goof off in art class once in a while." 

"Aw, Ms. Perkins..." 

"Aw, nothing. I've got you for one more year, mister, and I'll have my eyes on you." 

The boy rolled his eyes, though there was a grin on his face.  

"Away with you, now," she continued. "I think I see your father headed this way and you don't want to get into trouble this early in the summer season! Tell your folks I said hello." 

"Yes, Ms. Perkins. Nice to meet you, Captain." Lee was amused when the boy held out a hand to shake.  

Solemnly he took it and said, "Just remember what I said about studying, okay?" 

"Yes sir. I will. Bye, Ms. Perkins!" 

"Bye-bye, Robert."  

They watched the boy race off through the crowd in the general direction of his family. With a small chuckle Teal linked her arm with Lee's and said, "How about we round up some picnic supplies and get out of this craziness?" 

"Sounds good to me," he replied sincerely. 

iii 

It felt good to feel the wind rush by as the motorcycle sped down the country road. Teal was seated behind him, her grasp light but firm around his waist. She was the perfect passenger, leaning with precise timing at every curve and turn they made. Soon they arrived at the secluded farm and made their way to one of the more isolated fields. She pointed to a large maple tree amidst the wildflowers and a minute later they had arrived at what Lee considered a picture perfect spot. As they laid out the blanket, Lee's expression turned to a thoughtful frown. 

"This place seems awfully familiar to me," he said, surveying the area. "But that can't be true." 

"Sure it can," she replied simply. "You see it every time you walk down the hall." 

"What?" 

"There's a large watercolor I did that's hanging there. It was done in this field, but from over by that fence. You can see this tree on the left side." 

Crane blinked, trying to remember the painting. Surely he'd seen it a dozen times... Of course, I have been preoccupied lately, he thought with a grin. Wonderfully preoccupied. Lord, look at her standing there in that short little dress... she has no idea how turned on it's making me. I just can't seem to get enough of her, both her body and her mind. She's always full of surprises... maybe it's time I turned the tables. 

"Let me guess," she said in a bemused voice, "you are thinking about lunch, right? That hungry glint in your eye betrays you, Lee." She brought the picnic basket to the blanket and started to open it. She seemed slightly startled when he placed a hand on hers and stopped her. 

"There may be a hungry glint in my eye, but it has nothing to do with food." 

Her eyebrows arched at his intensity as he moved close. "Why sir," she said in an innocent voice, "what are your intentions?" 

"My intentions? I want to strip you of that dress and see your bare body glowing in the sunshine, surrounded by a thousand dots of color. I want to make you writhe with pleasure, hear your cries of ecstasy in my ear. I want to make love to you under the open sky and the warm sun." 

Teal's jaw dropped open and she stared, shocked. For the life of her she couldn't think of a thing to say to his uncharacteristic boldness. Where on earth had that come from? She had gotten used to his hesitations, his slight uncertainty when it came to lovemaking. She never dreamed he'd become so... so... 

"Unless you're not interested," he continued, a flicker of doubt passing across his face. 

"I... no, it's just that you surprised me. Of course I'm interested..." 

"C'mere," he breathed as he pulled her into an embrace. "The food can wait." 

iii 

Teal shook her head as Lee unpacked the basket. The chaotic, explosive feelings he'd generated in her were lingering on the edges of her mind, but she still couldn't quite believe their latest encounter. He had surprised her with his assertiveness and passion; while she'd had no complaints before, this was in another league altogether. A warm glow began to permeate her soul and she gazed at him in wonder and delight. 

"Lee Benjamin Crane, you amaze me completely."

"How so?" he asked over his shoulder as he brought the plates forth. 

"How-? Are you seriously asking me that question after what just happened?" 

"You inspire me," he answered with a grin and a shrug. 

"My god, I doubt Michelangelo was that inspired when he painted the Sistine Chapel!" she declared with conviction. "Why the... the change? The boldness?" she asked, truly wanting to know. She watched as Lee got serious. 

"I'm not really sure. I think that I just wanted to let go, to act on my feelings of the moment and not to think something to death. I do a lot of that on the boat... every situation has to be analyzed and weighed and considered before I can give orders to deal with it. But here, now..." 

"Things are different. I can understand that." Teal studied his handsome face for a bit. "Honestly, I couldn't be happier to see it. The pressures of doing your duty must be immense. Making love should be spontaneous and fun." 

"I... never used to think of it that way," he confessed. "Other women, they..." He ran a hand through his hair. "I..." 

"Most of your lovers were interested in the physical accomplishments first and foremost?" she offered, seeming to read his thoughts. At his reluctant nod she sighed softly. "Well, there's a lot more to it." 

"So I'm beginning to see. Teal," he continued akwardly, "I've had several lovers in the past, and quite a few fulfilling encounters, but what I am feeling with you is... well, it's different." 

"Because I am a different person," she reasoned. 

"No, that's not it. Not all of it, anyway. With you, everything seems... relaxed, natural. Fun." 

"Well, there's a lot to be said of drama and intensity, too, but I just don't seem to work that way. There's enough drama in regular life, enough things to angst over. I think the giving and receiving of pleasure should give you a break from all of that." She offered him a smile. 

"I'm starting to agree with your way of thinking." 

"Lee," she said softly, "you deserve to have lovers that will add to your happiness, not take it away with worry and pressure. Promise me you'll think about that next time you meet someone." 

He didn't reply. The very thought of making love to another woman was... odd, somehow.  

"You must meet women all of the time, generate a lot of interest wherever you go. You're an attractive man, no denying it. I imagine you have your pick of partners." 

He flushed a bit and stared at the blades of grass near the blanket's edge. "I suppose so. To tell you the truth, it's been a while since I... since I was in a relationship." 

"That's a shame," she said with a tiny smile. Stroking his cheek she looked into his warm amber eyes. "You are a wonderful lover and a fantastic companion." 

Abruptly he turned away, but not before she caught a glimpse of pain in his eyes. She bit her lip, intuition telling her the source of his hurt. 

"And you're so terribly alone." When he didn't respond, she reached over and touched his arm. "I'm an artist, Lee. I am an observer by nature and I can't help but notice details. All the things you've told me, all the things I've seen and heard from you have painted a fairly clear picture of who you are. Some things I'm guessing at here, but let me tell you what I think. Your discomfort with kids tells me that you probably were an only child. You have had to be ambitious and dedicated to achieve what you have in such a short time; you admitted there wasn't a whole lot of time just to be young in your quest for your dreams. Your responsibilities on the ship would never be light; you probably have to make tough decisions that often alienate you from members of the crew. You aren't able to be 'one of the boys' with them, it wouldn't be appropriate. Your only hope of friendship lies with the command crew... I pray there's a couple of people there for you." 

He nodded but did not turn around. 

"Your experiences with women haven't solved the problem either. They are a nice diversion but they don't erase the loneliness for long." 

She waited as he held his silence for quite a while.  

"How can a woman I've known for a mere matter of days nail things so directly on the head?" he asked in a low voice. 

"Like I said, I'm just observant. Look, the reason I brought all of this up is that I want you to know it's not too late to change things. You've come so far so fast in your career; maybe now is the time to focus on the other parts of your life. Remember when I said it's never too late to have a happy childhood? Well, I wasn't joking, not really. You're young, healthy, with a promising future ahead of you... you need to start enjoying yourself. Anyone can learn to play, even lonely submarine captains with more than their share of responsibility." 

"Easier said than done, I think," he replied as he finally faced her again, a vulnerable expression on his face. 

"My dear Lee, we still have four days to work on that!" she declared brightly, teasing a smile from him at last. "And I don't intend on wasting a single minute." 

iii 

"Get me some more of those blue ones... to the left," she instructed from her seated position. "Just a few, then that'll do it." 

He picked the selected blooms and returned to the blanket where Teal was surrounded by tiny bundles of flowers. 

"What's this for again?" he asked as he dropped down. He watched her try to do something with her right hand, some sort of knotting thing. 

"Darn," she swore softly. "Well, I was going to make a flower chain until I found it was too tricky with this hand of mine." 

"A flower chain?" 

"You know, like for a crown or a bracelet or a necklace." 

"But won't it wilt and die? It couldn't be very strong-" 

"Lee, that is not the point of a flower chain. It's beautiful, all the moreso because you know it won't last forever." 

Sudden understanding came into his golden eyes and he gave her a grin. She smiled fondly as she remembered summers past. 

"I used to make crowns and pretend I was a fairy princess. My sisters and I used to do this for hours on end," she continued. "And although my brother wouldn't be caught dead wearing them, he would help us make daisy chains all summer long. Would you mind helping me now?" 

"I don't have the slightest idea how to do that," he warned. 

"Nonsense. You were in the Navy, right? If you can tie a simple knot or braid a rope you can do this. Trust me. Come here, I'll show you how." 

If anyone had said I'd be spending my shore leave weaving flower chains I would have called them crazy, Lee thought as he finally finished a crown-sized loop. Teal beamed at his accomplishment and he felt inordinately proud of it's construction. Strange, that feeling. 

"Now what?" he asked. 

"You may crown me, sir." 

He laughed and stood up, drawing her to her feet. With great care he lowered the chain to encircle the top of her head. "I declare you fairy princess of this vast meadow," he intoned in a serious voice. "Your majesty, I am at your command." Teal snickered at his exaggerated bow. 

"Indeed. You have done well, and must be rewarded." 

"Oh?" he said with a speculative glance.  

"Perhaps I should return the gift of beauty with one of pleasure." 

Lee did not feel silly in the least when he accepted her offer. 

iii 

They reclined on the blanket, relaxed and satisfied. Lee had his hands behind his head and was gazing at the spot she had just pointed at. 

"No, I just don't see it as a bird," he said. "To me, that cloud looks like a... a seal. See the flippers?" 

"Wings. Okay, how about that one? Looks just like a great big bear. See the head, and the paw to the right?" 

"Oh, yeah, I can see that. Funny how they change so fast." 

"For someone who never did any cloud gazing, you picked it up pretty fast." 

"I have a wonderful teacher," he grinned as he rolled over to tease her with a stray blade of grass. 

"I could say the same," she declared sincerely. When she didn't explain further, he wondered what she meant. 

"What's it like, not seeing the sky or the sun or the stars for weeks on end?" she asked as she neatly changed subjects. 

"Oh, we don't stay submerged all the time. Actually, I like to bring her up once every 24 hours or so, just to get a little fresh air therapy. I take readings with a sextant to verify our position every so often, too." 

"That means you can only do that during the day, right?" 

"No, we can use it at night; then, we call it 'shooting the stars'. Daytime, it's 'shooting the sun'." 

"I bet you've seen some wonderful sights in all your journeys." 

"I guess I have. I remember one night in the North Atlantic... the sky was so clear you could see millions of stars arching above. Chip and I must have spent an hour just staring at them." 

"You've mentioned this Chip before. I take it he's a friend?" 

"Best friend; we met at the Academy. We went our separate ways after graduation but never lost touch. He was recruited by the Admiral before the Seaview was even finished; I came along a while after that." 

"What's he like? What does he do?" 

"He's my Exec on the boat... Executive Officer, second in the line of command. My right hand. He's the best there is and I feel doubly lucky to have him aboard. As far as what he's like... well, we're pretty much opposites." 

"Oh? How so?" 

"He's easygoing, able to socialize with an ease that's awesome to see. He's smart and a whiz at math and navigation... he even has a master's degree in Electrical Engineering. He is very good at keeping his emotions and thoughts hidden when he wants to, though I know him well enough that he doesn't fool me often. A vicious poker player, the best on the boat. He has the ability to remain utterly calm in any situation... a real plus with some of the crazy missions we end up on." 

"You say all that with affection in your voice." 

"Yeah, I suppose so." 

"Like a brother, isn't he?" 

Lee stopped at her simple statement, realizing it was true. "I guess you're right. I... don't think about it very often." 

"I'm glad he's there for you," she said in a soft voice.  

They reclined in silence for a minute or two. Finally, with a far away voice, Teal spoke. 

"It's getting late in the day and I suppose we should be going soon." 

"I still owe you dinner out, don't I?" he said as he sat up.  

"I ate too much at lunch," she said as she joined him. "I won't be wanting to eat for several hours yet." 

"Well, we could..." his voice faded as he pondered the possibilities. "Hey, would you like to see the boat? I can't let you on board due to repairs but we can see her moored." 

"Well, you always talk about her with that gleam in your eye... I can tell she's something special. Sure! I would love to see this fabulous submarine." 

iii 

Lee was surprised at the crowds near the moorage. Not an inch of waterfront space was empty as people toured the various boats and ships on display in the deep-water harbor. It took nearly ten minutes to make their way through the melee to arrive at the security guard's station. When the guard saw Lee, he stood a little straighter and nodded at the pair to enter the area. Lee thanked him, calling him by name, and clapped him on the shoulder as he went by. Teal smiled at the young man, who blushed a bit and tried to hide a wide grin as she passed. Linking her arm in Lee's, she walked down the long dock.  

"Where is this boat? Surely it's not underwater all the way," she said as she squinted in the sun. 

"She's around that corner there. She was too large to moor the regular way." 

Lee was eager to see Teal's reaction to the boat that had been the culmination of all his dreams and hopes. He was not prepared for it, however. 

They rounded the corner to find Seaview in full display, her lines like liquid silver in the afternoon sun. He grinned and started to speak when he felt Teal come to an abrupt halt. 

Her eyes were wide, and she stood frozen before the graceful craft. Inhaling sharply, as if she'd forgotten to breathe, she actually backed up a step and put a hand up to her mouth in reaction. Alarmed, Lee called her name, asking what was wrong. She did not answer except to take a step forward. 

"Teal, what is it?" he demanded, mystified at the intensity of his companion.  

"Oh my god, Lee, she's... she's beautiful!" she exclaimed with a whisper. The expression on her face was one he could finally identify: awe. 

"But I told you she was a beautiful boat," he said, confused. 

"I thought you were seeing her through the eyes of her Captain," she tried to explain. "But... look at the lines, the way the curves soften the edges of the boat..." She pointed, tracing the silhouette with a gesture. She rarely reacted so strongly to an object made by man, but this boat was one of the most beautiful and aesthetically perfect things she'd ever seen. Sensual yet functional, it rocked gently in its berth like a great, graceful creature from another world. At once she realized what an amazing accomplishment it was. No wonder Lee was in love with Seaview! Beauty always moved her; suddenly she felt a tear well up in her eye. She could only stare as she drank in the view. 

He looked back at the Seaview, still not sure why Teal was so overwhelmed. Before he could say another word he heard his name called in greeting.  

"Lee! What are you doing back here?" Nelson said as he drew near. "And who is this?" 

"This is Teal Perkins, a... friend. I came to show her the boat, sir. Teal, this is Admiral Harriman Nelson, my boss." 

The older man held out his hand and she took it, the dazed expression in her eyes still there.  

"Nice to meet you, Miss Perkins," he said in his rich voice.  

"I... nice to meet you too, Admiral," she said as she fought to focus on the man before her. Distractedly she brushed at the wetness that threatened to migrate down her cheek. 

"What's wrong?" Lee asked, thoroughly lost. 

"Oh, I'm sorry, it's nothing," she said, feeling incredibly foolish. She gathered herself and tried to smile at the curiosity in Nelson's light blue eyes. 

"This is the Admiral's pride and joy," Lee said, looking back at the boat. "Builder, designer, owner, engineer, it's his from stem to stern." 

"You designed this?" she demanded, a bright spark in her eye as she stared at Nelson. 

"Why, yes I did," he replied cautiously. "Is something the matter?" 

She turned from her companions and locked her gaze on the silver craft. "It's..." Her voice stopped when emotions seized control. Truly worried now, Lee moved to where she stood and placed a hand on her shoulder. It seemed to help, for she said, "Mon Dieu, it's one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen." 

Harriman was surprised by the passion in her whispered voice. Could she actually be so struck with Seaview's form that it would cause such a reaction? He'd witnessed the same look on only a few faces in his journeys, and every time, the person had been... ah. 

"My dear, are you an artist by any chance?" he asked gently, knowing her answer.  

She nodded vaguely. "I'm a painter... I... also teach elementary classes." She stared at the boat again. 

"I thought so," he said with a satisfied nod. 

Lee threw up his hands and said, "Will someone please tell me what the devil is going on here?" 

"I believe Miss Perkins has just paid me a most incredible compliment, Lee." 

"Admiral," he began, frustration coloring his voice. 

"Oh, Admiral," she breathed, ignoring Lee, "I've never seen anything like her... I..." 

"Thank you, my dear. I understand how you feel. I worked on that design for nearly a decade and I confess I cried the first time I saw her completely finished." 

She gave a self-conscious laugh and the spell of incredulity was broken. "I usually manage to make a better first impression. Sorry," she apologized. 

"You've done nothing but validate my dream. I can't tell you how that touches me." 

Lee sighed.  

"I'd love to give you a tour but I'm afraid she's off limits right now," Nelson said with sincerity. 

"I understand. This... this is enough, I think." She turned to Lee and gave him a playful swat on the arm. "Why didn't you warn me about this?" 

"What?" he protested with a befuddled look. Nelson laughed aloud and shook his head. 

"Miss Perkins, it's been a pleasure meeting you but I have to return to my duties now," he said with a bit of regret.  

"It was my pleasure completely, Admiral. Thank you." Teal watched him move away with an expression of wonder. 

"Would you like to take a closer look?" Lee asked, taking her hand again. "We can get a better view from those crates there." 

She nodded and began moving... then, unexpectedly, she stopped Crane with a touch. He looked at her with a puzzled frown when she didn't speak for several heartbeats. 

"Thank you for bringing me, Lee," she said with a warmth that thrilled him. She put her hand behind his head and pulled the willing Captain into a passionate, intense kiss. He lost all thought of propriety as he allowed the sensations to sweep through him without check. Neither one noticed the three observers watching their encounter with marked interest.  

iii 

"Man-oh-man," Kowalski said to his companions as the kiss gained depth. "I can't believe that the skipper latched on to such a hot number! Usually we don't see anything of that caliber except for Mister Morton's dates!" 

"Yeah, I can't remember the last time the skipper even had a date," Bob O'Brien said with a bit of amazement. "Much less a world-class looker like her!" 

"For sure, that's something you don't see every day," Sharkey said with a grin. "Holy cow, aren't they gonna come up for air?" 

A fourth voice interrupted their musings. "Am I paying you men for becoming voyeurs or for loading equipment?"  

"Admiral, sir! Sorry, sir. We were just, ah..." 

"At ease, Chief," Nelson said with a low laugh. "I know what you were doing. It is sort of a rare sight, isn't it?" 

"Too rare," Kowalski muttered under his breath. 

The couple broke apart, both looking flushed and grinning like a pair of Cheshire cats. Still oblivious to their audience, they held hands and moved eastward down the dock. 

Harriman chuckled at the expression on O'Brien's face: sheer disbelief mixed with a touch of jealousy. "Lee's little schoolteacher looks even better up close," he said, unable to resist teasing the younger officer. 

"Schoolteacher?" Bob exclaimed. "Man, I never had a teacher that looked anything like that!" 

"Heck, I'd go back to school in a heartbeat if I knew-" Kowalski's words were cut off when Nelson cleared his throat in warning. 

"Enough, you lot! Let's get back to work," the Chief said with a final look at the receding female form that clung to the Old Man. He gave a mental two-thumbs-up sign towards the Captain and turned back to the job at hand. 

iii 

"How is it?" she asked between bites. 

"Great. We don't get a chance to have a lot of steak on board," he said as he speared another piece. "And it's never this good." He watched her for a second. "You know, you're getting really good with your left hand." 

"As much as I enjoy your feeding sessions, I don't think we should do it in full view of the public eye," she grinned. "It still feels awkward but I think I'm getting the hang of it." With that declaration, she tried to stab a cherry tomato from her salad plate... only to watch as it went sailing past Lee, missing impact by a mere inch. Her eyebrows arched in astonishment that turned quickly into chagrin. Lee burst out laughing and retrieved the errant vegetable with a napkin. 

"Me and my big mouth," she said with a rueful laugh. 

"Warn me next time you are about to do that," he teased, giving her a dazzling smile that reached his amber eyes. 

"Are you kidding? I need to keep you on your toes, Commander." 

"You've been doing that since the second I ran into you," he said. "Your middle name should be 'Surprise'." 

"Teal Surprise Perkins?" she giggled. "Oh, no, I think not! Being named after a duck is punishment enough!" 

He snickered at her reaction. "Well, you are one surprise after another. A beautiful one, I might add." 

"Why, sir," she said in an exaggerated southern accent, "are you tryin' t'turn my head with flattery?" 

"Hmm... that depends." 

"On?" 

"On whether it's working or not." 

She leaned close, a twinkle in her sea-colored eyes. "It's working, trust me." 

He grinned at her wink and turned his attention to his dinner; for some reason he seemed eager to finish the meal and get back to the apartment. 

iii 

"Sorry I took so long," Lee apologized as he came back to the living room. "That phone call I made was-"

He stopped, not seeing her at first. "Teal?" 

At the ensuing silence he walked over to the large couch and discovered her sleeping form curled around a pillow. He gave a lopsided grin at the image; she looked so small and sweet lying there. Knowing that she would end up with a stiff back if she slept there all night, he came around and touched her gently on the shoulder. 

"Come on to bed," he said in a voice filled with affection. 

"Hmm?" she mumbled sleepily. Blinking and squinting, she focused on his smiling face. "Oh, Lee, I'm sorry... I am so tired. I... don't think I'm up to making love again today." 

"Making love?" he asked. "No, sweetheart, I want you to move into the bed to sleep." 

"I'm sorry," she repeated as she uncurled. "I don't want to disappoint you..." 

"You could never disappoint me," he assured her. "Here, let me help you."  

Less than ten minutes later he watched as her breathing evened out, signaling sleep. He stood and looked at her for a while, a soft expression on his face. He could not remember ever feeling the way he did at that moment. 

He joined her in the bed not too long afterwards. Lee smiled when she automatically cuddled around his arm, and he fell asleep with an odd sense of contentment. 

She woke to the sound of thunder and the drum of wind-driven rain on the window. The clock on the nightstand told her it was near dawn, though there was no light coming from the outside. She turned on the lamp to it's lowest setting and looked over at her partner. 

The light softened the angles and planes of his handsome face, lending a look of vulnerability to the sleeping man. His face was relaxed, no trace of trouble wrinkling his brow. He had come a long way since they'd first met, and she wondered if those changes would become permanent or would vanish when the Seaview left port. At the thought of his departure in two days, she frowned. She scolded herself a second later. I should be on my knees thanking the powers that be for meeting him at all, she thought. No one's ever come along and swept me off my feet the way he has, and I should be grateful for every moment I get. With a sigh she delicately touched a lock of his hair, careful not to disturb the peace he'd found.  

Does he really have any idea how handsome he is? she wondered. With a grin she let her gaze linger over his half-covered body. He was amazingly fit for someone who lived on a submarine; where Teal would have expected softness there was nothing but firm muscle. His body was well proportioned; there was nothing ungainly about him even though he was a good five inches taller than she was. His hands... those wonderfully sensitive hands... were those of a piano player, long and full of strength. Teal knew it wasn't socially acceptable to call a man beautiful, but that was the only word she could think of to describe Lee Crane. With his ivory skin and his contrasting dark hair and lashes, he was a delight to study. And those eyes... the eyes that went from amber to gold to smoky brown with each change of emotion... 

She simply didn't know how she'd lucked out so thoroughly. 

iii 

The smell of fresh coffee and warm bread roused him out of sleep. He opened his eyes to find a breakfast tray by his side, steadied by a smiling Teal. 

"Wow, what's all this?" he asked in a somewhat rough voice. 

"Breakfast in bed," she replied easily. "I thought you might enjoy the luxury." 

"Don't tell me you were up and cooking already!" he exclaimed as he sat up. 

"Are you kidding? I paid the paperboy five bucks to run an errand when he came to deliver the paper this morning. He went to the bakery around the corner and got us supplies. I think you'll love the cinammon rolls, and the croissants are pure decadence." 

"It smells wonderful, that's for sure. Join me?" 

She climbed in next to him and propped herself up with her pillow. Soon they were making short work of the proffered goodies, not bothering to engage in much conversation.  

Lee sat back with a tiny groan. Patting his flat stomach, he said, "Not another bite. I am so stuffed... I won't need to eat until tonight!" 

"Unfortunately the bakery is both excellent and close by. I don't dare go myself. I wouldn't be able to fit through the door inside a week's time." 

They removed the tray and she scooted over to be encircled by his arms. After a bit of contented silence, she said, "How did you sleep?" 

"Perfectly sound. I never even heard the storm come." 

"Any dreams?" 

"None I can remember. You?" 

"Mmm. Well, I dreamed you called me sweetheart," she said with a slight frown. 

"I... I did, last night. It just kind of slipped out." He bit his lower lip, realizing it was the very first term of affection either of them had used.  

"Do you usually forget your dreams?" she said, avoiding the subject completely. 

Lee was tempted to steer the conversation back and address the touchy issue but he decided to decline. If she wanted to ignore it, so did he. "I remember the nightmares," he said with a sigh. "At least all the emotions that go along with them. I rarely have good dreams. Although I had one the other night, strangely enough." 

"Oh?" she inquired. "What was it about?" 

He squirmed a little as the vivid details surfaced. "Well, it was kind of a... fantasy thing. It seems I was on this tropical island. I could actually feel the sun on my face...it was that realistic. And there was someone else there..." 

"Ah. A woman?" 

"Yeah." He swallowed hard. "Actually... it was you. A dream version of you, anyway. I heard you singing and followed your voice. You were standing near a lagoon and wearing... well, it was not a whole lot. Some kind of printed wrap, very, er, skimpy." 

"I see where this is going," she grinned. 

"Yeah. Next thing I know we're starting to... to make love. I woke up about then," he finished, a slight bit embarrassed. 

"That wouldn't have been two nights ago, would it?" she asked with puzzlement. 

"Yes, I think so." Strangely, she laughed.  

"There must have been something in the air that night," she said with a shake of her head. "I had a dream of my own then, too." 

"Really?" he said, curious. When she didn't explain, he said, "Spill. I told you mine, now it's your turn." 

"I... I was back in the past, during the old sailing days. I found myself on board a tall ship full of pirates." She stopped, a flush creeping up her face.  

"And-?" 

"They captured me and the Captain claimed me for his own." She shot him a glance, trying to gauge his reaction. "He, uh... shoot. He was you, with a bit longer hair and terrible English skills." 

Lee laughed at her disdain when she said the word 'terrible'. "And what did this pirate Captain do?" 

She cleared her throat a bit self-consciously. "He ended up taking me below and, well, we..." It was her turn to fidget. "He was having his way with me when I woke up." 

"His way? As in, against your will?" Lee asked, surprised. He would have never thought she'd be interested in that sort of thing! 

"No, not against my will. I was quite willing at that point. He was forceful and intense, that's all." 

"You're right, there must have been something in the air. Weird." 

"Weird, but wonderful," she corrected with a more relaxed smile. 

"What's on the agenda today?" he said after a while. 

"Oh, some incredibly exciting things. The highlights are straightening up, dusting, grocery shopping, and... prepare yourself... laundry." 

"Oh my gosh," he exclaimed in a rushed voice, "all that in the same day?" 

"A thrill a minute in the Perkins home."  

Lee laughed aloud. "Any chance of fitting a little one-on-one fun in there?" he asked slyly. 

"Chores first, then... maybe," she answered vaguely.  

"Not even a morning shower? A quick one together?" he said. 

She glared and shook her finger at him. "You don't know the meaning of the phrase 'quick shower', mister. An hour is not quick." 

"Well, you can't fault a guy for wanting to be thorough," he said in a pouty tone. 

"No. I suppose not. Still, I have a list of chores that I have to tend to first." 

"It could be inspiring..." 

Teal gritted her teeth at the wide, puppy dog eyes he turned on her. He looked exactly like a boy pleading for a special toy at Christmas. She slapped down a giggle and conjured a frown instead. "Captain Crane, you above all others should know the importance of duty first! Now, enough of this nonsense." 

"Not even one teeny little backscrub?" he pleaded. 

"Nothing about you is teeny, Commander," she declared flatly. Belatedly she realized what she'd said and cringed at his guffaw. She was helpless to control her own laughter after a moment and fell back on the bed, giggling. 

Minutes later, she wiped the tears off her face and swatted him with a pillow when he tried to grab her around the waist. He made a cry of indignation. "But I only wanted to-" 

"I know precisely what you wanted to do, and the answer is still no." She stood and gave him a smile. "Seriously, I really need to get this stuff done. I think you should go off on your own for the day." 

"You... you'd rather I stay out of your way?" he asked, trying to mask his genuine disappointment. Teal did a doubletake at his sudden look of dismay. 

"Are you saying you want to hang around here while I work? That can't be any fun!" 

"Not while you work... while we work. I'd like to help." 

She put a hand on her hip as words failed her for a moment. Finally she said, "But you're on shore leave, Lee. Who would want to do this stuff on vacation?" 

"I would." 

She knew that he was completely sincere. Shrugging her shoulders, she said, "Okay, come on then. We have a lot to do today." 

"Aye, aye, ma'am!" he said sharply, giving her a textbook salute. The effect was immensely amusing due to the fact he was wearing practically no clothes; she rolled her eyes and left the room with a grin. 

iii 

When Lee emerged from the bathroom after a shower and shave, he found Teal working already. She was wearing shorts and an oversized tee shirt that looked like it had seen better days. Her hair was pulled back out of the way into a ponytail and she was wearing only cotton socks on her feet. Incredibly, Lee felt a heat rise at the sight of her... he was perplexed as to why. She was dressed as unsexily as she could be, yet... yet he suddenly felt a surge of intense desire sweep through him, just that fast. 

"Good, you're all done. Now I can put you to work," she said as she sorted through the collection of rags. She glanced at him, then looked at him again as she narrowed her eyes. "Lee, I know that look on your face. Put that idea right out of your mind this minute!" 

"What?" he said, spreading his hands wide. "I didn't say a thing!" 

"We have to get some work done and that's that. Don't you dare stand there and look at me with that ravenous expression in your eyes." 

"Hmm... ravenous, huh?" He took a step towards her, a wicked grin appearing on his face. 

She grabbed a broom and held him at bay. "Back off, boy. I know how to use this thing!" she said as she tried... tried... to look serious. 

"Come on," he said in a smooth voice. "All work and no play..." 

"Oh, lord, what have I created?" she lamented as she looked towards the ceiling.  

"I can't help it," he said as he moved closer. "You're just so damned sexy..." 

Incredulously she stared at him, glanced down at her attire, and looked back at him. "How long have you been at sea? Months? Years?" 

"It's you," he said, inching nearer. "Being at sea has nothing to do with it." 

"Ah, ah!" she warned, jabbing at him with the end of the broom. "Don't come any closer or I'll have to get mean!" 

"Really?" he asked with an exagerrated leer. "That could be interesting, too..." 

Teal took a step back, fighting the laughter she was holding in. Suddenly Lee surprised her by grabbing the broom and tossing it aside. She was quick, however, and scooted out of his reach before he could corner her. She got on the far side of the couch and picked up a handful of rags.  

Lee's amber eyes were full of sparks as he took deliberate steps towards her. When he was in range, she threw a balled up rag at him, hitting his chest dead on target. 

"I'm warning you!" she said, aware that his pace had not changed a bit. 

"The rewards are worth the risks," he said with a grin. 

"Work first," she declared in a defiant tone. "I'm serious. Play can come later." 

"What's wrong with playing now, then getting around to work afterwards?" he said as he dodged another flying wad of cotton. 

"Because I know what will happen! We'll never get around to the work part." 

"But-" 

"How.. how about if I promise you something special later?" 

At that, he paused and gave her a suspicious look. "Special? Like what?" 

"Uh... er..." 

"I think I'd rather seize the moment," he said, resuming his approach. 

"Oh! Wait!" she said as an idea hit her. "Your dream...we could act out that dream you had the other night!" she said with a bit of supplication in her voice. "Come on, Lee, I really need to get this work done or I will go crazy from all the clutter and dust." 

He stood back, rubbing his chin with his hand, considering her offer with a speculative expression. "Where are you going to find a lagoon, huh?" he challenged. 

"Er... the tub! I have this stuff that makes the water blue and everything!" 

"Well, I don't know," he hesitated, enjoying their bargaining immensely. 

"I'll wear my hawaiin print bathing suit," she said in a tantalizing tone, knowing he would relent. "It's a two piece that really doesn't cover much..." 

"A two piece, huh?" 

"A very small two piece." 

"You really want to get this stuff done, don't you?" he said with a smile. "Oh, all right. Just don't forget our deal." 

"Just don't forget your part," she warned. "No play until the work is done. Promise?" 

"Promise," he said with a dramatic sigh. 

"Good. Here, take this rag and get busy on those bookshelves over there. Somehow the dust gets attracted to them like a magnet." 

"Yes, Admiral Perkins." He was rewarded with a giggle and turned to his assigned duty with resolve. 

iii 

Three hours later Teal tossed the last rag into the washer and closed the lid with a satisfied smile. The apartment looked terrific; even the tops of things had gotten a thorough cleaning, courtesy of Lee's tallness that allowed him to reach where she could barely touch. She sank down on the couch next to him, letting out a groan of relief. He was lying back, his arm across his eyes, feigning exhaustion. 

"Thanks for all the help," she said sincerely. 

"About that reward..." he said, not moving a muscle, "I'm not sure I have the energy..." 

"The reward?" she said in a surprised voice. "We're not done the chores yet, mister. There's still the matter of shopping for groceries." 

"Can't we get someone to... to deliver something?" he said wistfully. 

"Don't be ridiculous, Lee. Look, if you want to stay here, that's okay, all teasing aside. This shouldn't take me more than an hour." 

"You'll need help carrying things," he pointed out. "And it's still raining hard out there. You'll get wet!" 

"Gee, I think I've been wet before, Captain," she said. "Funny thing, I always seem to dry off." 

"You still can use help carrying the groceries," he insisted. 

"I'm going to hop in the shower.. alone... and if you still want to go when I'm ready, I won't argue." 

Lee snorted at her emphasis on 'alone' and waved her towards the bathroom. He was reading a magazine twenty minutes later when she reappeared, ready to go. 

iii 

The rain was fluctuating between showers and cloudbursts, an occasional clap of thunder thrown in for ambience. By the time they reached the grocery store three blocks away, they were soaked to the skin. With a disgusted frown Lee threw the inside-out umbrella into the trash can.  

"Well, that was less than useless," he muttered as he shook his head. 

"Oh, I don't know. I think it was incredibly funny, watching you wrestle with a six dollar umbrella in the middle of a thunderstorm." She snickered. "And the fact that you didn't win the contest was even funnier." 

"Amused, are you?" he said, peering daggers at her. Not fooled in the least by his act, she nodded happily.  

"Grab a cart and follow me," she said as she gave him a pat on the arm. "We've got some money to spend." 

Lee could not remember the last time he had gone grocery shopping. Usually all his meals were provided courtesy of the Institute; when he took shore leave, he preferred to eat out most of the time. Since he was not really interested in cooking, his cupboards were kept quite bare, save for a few cans of soup and a stock of beer in the fridge. He normally hated to go to the store... but he was enjoying their little excursion. She chattered away, telling him all sorts of amusing anecdotes as they went down aisle after aisle. Before he knew it the cart was full and they were at the checkout. 

Groceries paid for, he eyed the bags in the cart and turned to Teal. "And how are we supposed to carry this stuff home?" he asked. 

"Well, once we finish, we'll just call a cab." 

"I thought we were finished." 

"Groceries, yes. I need to pop next door to the drug store and get a few things."  

At that, Lee gave a pained sigh. "I see," he said theatrically, "you really don't want to give me that reward we talked about. You have a master plan to wear me out so thoroughly that I fall asleep beforehand." 

"Darn, you've stumbled onto my secret." She rolled her eyes and pushed him towards the door. "Honestly, Captain, I thought you had a lot more stamina!" 

"Well, now, that depends on what we're talking about, doesn't it?" he said in a low voice only she could hear. He got satisfaction when he saw a blush color her cheeks in response to his implied meaning. 

While she waited in the perscription line, he wandered aimlessly down several aisles. He paused at the equipment display, looking askance at the crutches and canes and splints, all of which he was woefully familiar with. He skimmed over the bandages and tapes on the shelves next to it and started to move off when something struck him. He stared at the eyepatch for several seconds until a grin curled the corners of his mouth. He grabbed the small package and headed for the left side of the store, where he'd noticed a variety of bandanas and handkerchiefs for sale. 

Having hidden his purchases in his pockets, he greeted Teal with an innocent smile as she met him near the door. 

"Sorry it took so long," she apologized. "I always check to see if Mrs. B. has a prescription waiting." 

"No big deal. I called a cab about four minutes ago so it should be arriving any time now." 

Sure enough, they were picked up and dropped off in less than ten minutes.  

"Now," Teal said, "we just have to take all this stuff upstairs and unpack... then the chores will be finished for true." 

"Thank goodness." 

The last of the eight bags was settled on the floor and Teal let go of the elevator door she'd been holding open for Crane. He ducked inside as they closed and shot her a sly smile.  

"Mission accomplished... well, mostly. How about a pre-reward treat?" 

"What do you mean, a treat?" she asked warily. 

"Just a little kiss." 

"Well, I suppose that would be acceptable," she relented.  

"It'll be more than just acceptable," he promised in a sultry tone as he drew her to him. He bent down and kissed her hungrily, intensifying the contact with each passing second. Her response was enthusiastic and they didn't even notice the elevator start its ascent. They did notice its abrupt stop a few seconds later, however... 

The elevator jolted to a bone-jarring halt as the lights went out. They nearly lost their balance and only quick reflexes saved Lee from a tumble. 

"Well, that felt familiar," he muttered under his breath. "You okay?" he asked his now-invisible companion. 

"I'm fine," she assured him. "Damn. Power outage. We could be stuck here for a while." 

"Maybe the power will come right back," he said hopefully. 

"Yeah, right. The last time it did this we were without power for three days." 

"Hmm. Well, at least we won't starve to death before they come rescue us." At his dry words, Teal laughed aloud. 

"Can you find the phone on the wall?" she asked. "We should still be able to call for help." 

"Yeah... got it," he said as he found the device. As he was ready to push what he hoped was the right button, the lights flickered back on and steadied. Hanging the phone back in its cradle, he said, "Looks like the problem's been solved." 

They waited patiently for the elevator to resume its journey. Two minutes later they were still waiting. The emergency phone rang, the sharp sound causing each one to jump. He picked it up and spoke to the person on the other end. 

"Yes, that's right... Teal Perkins and Lee Crane... no, we're all right... mmm, it looks like we're between the second and third floor here. What's that? Lightening hit the what? That doesn't sound good... how long?...no, I could probably climb out but Miss Perkins has a sprained wrist and wouldn't be able to manage. I'll wait here with her... what?...When will you have an idea of the repair time? Oh... I see. Okay." He hung up the phone and Teal flinched at the irritation on his face. 

"What's the deal?" she asked with a sigh. 

"Lightening hit the building and zapped the elevator motor in the process. They're getting the repair people out here right away but it could be a while." 

"Like how long is a while?" 

"Somewhere between one and four hours." 

Teal sat down and was silent for several heartbeats. "I don't suppose you'd be interested in ice cream for lunch, would you?" she asked with a rueful grin. 

"Oh, the ice cream!" he groaned, remembering the container they'd picked up. "That could get messy. And we don't even have spoons." 

"Oh, I think we could skip the table etiquette in this situation, Captain. Hmm... we could use the butter cookies or the graham crackers as substitute spoons." 

"Good idea," he said as he joined her on the floor. "Are you always this resourceful?" 

"Necessity is the mother of invention, you know. It would be a heinous crime to let this ice cream go to waste." 

"I agree. Wouldn't want to be a criminal. Ah, here's the cookies." 

They ate away at the quart of french vanilla, their tension easing as the humor of the situation rose to the surface. By the time they'd finished the last bit, Lee was feeding dripping pieces to a laughing Teal, who was trying to protest she'd had more than enough. 

"Now what?" Lee asked as they calmed down and settled back. He missed the expression that passed across her face and the devilish grin that was left in its wake. 

"Let's think about this. We are stuck in an isolated elevator that's not going anywhere for at least an hour. Neither one of us brought any cards along... what on earth could we possibly do to pass the time?" 

Lee's eyebrows shot up as he caught her meaning and he said, "In an elevator? What if it suddenly starts to move again? We could be right in the middle of-" 

"Of?" she teased. "That little element of danger adds a nice dash of spice. Not knowing if you'll be caught or not... gives it a certain edge, don't you think?" 

Although he wanted to disagree with her, he found he couldn't. The slight chance of discovery does seem to have some appeal, he admitted reluctantly to himself. The extra excitement just might add another dimension to the whole thing... 

He did not protest when she crawled over to him and began tracing the line of his jaw with butterfly-light kisses. Soon he was returning the favor, savoring the feel and taste of her smooth skin against his lips... 

iii 

The elevator bounced to a stop and the doors opened slowly. Lee was surprised to see a crowd of about seven people gathered in the hallway. Teal straightened her blouse and grinned at Mrs. Barton, who was standing in the very front of the group. 

"Oh, you poor dears!" she exclaimed as she clasped her hands. "Stuck in that death trap for an hour and a half! How dreadful! Why, I was worried sick!" 

"We were okay, Mrs. B., there wasn't any real danger," Teal assured the older woman. 

"I've seen those movies on television, where the elevators crash down at the bottom of the shaft and-" 

"Nothing happened," she said calmly. "Although we did have one casualty... our ice cream. We had to eat it before it melted," she added with a smile. 

"Well, no harm done then. Thank goodness! I tell you, I shall speak to that shiftless landlord the moment I get back to my phone and lodge a complaint about the disreputable condition of-" 

"Mr. Lawrence has no control of lightning strikes, Mrs. B.. Here, we picked up your prescription at the drug store, thought it would save you a trip." 

"Why, thank you, dear," she said as she took the small bag. "You are always such a kind young woman! Too bad most of your generation seems to lack the same sort of respect towards those of us of advancing years," she began. Teal had heard the speech a dozen times and knew it was time to vacate the area. 

"I'd love to stay and chat," she interrupted, "but we really need to put this stuff away before it spoils. Thanks for your concern... for everyone's concern," she amended, indicating her other neighbors with a smile. Without further delay she and Lee gathered the bags, making their way to the apartment with all due haste. 

iii 

"That was close," she said with a relieved sigh. 

"The elevator getting stuck?" 

"No, Mrs. B. was ready to launch into one of her favorite lectures. It starts with the lack of respect comment and ends up with the world on the brink of complete destruction." 

Lee snorted. "Sounds like you've been around that particular block a time or two." 

"Once was enough. At this point I have most of it memorized." 

They took the supplies to the kitchen and decided that Teal would put away the groceries while Lee made them lunch. For some reason they were both hungry... very hungry. 

"Well, it's not fancy, but I think it's edible," he said as he pulled out her chair. 

"I love tuna on toast. Thanks for cooking." 

"Cooking? Making toast doesn't qualify as cooking." 

"It does in my book. Pass the salad, please." 

Lee gave her a measuring stare. His eyes narrowed critically and he said, "Maybe I will, maybe I won't. Are you going to try and nail me with a tomato again?" 

"Ha, ha. Funny. If I had done that on purpose, mister, you would have been wearing it out of the restaurant." 

"Um-hmm. Sure. Well, if you promise to keep your vegetables to yourself then I guess I can let you have a little salad." 

"Gosh, thanks," she said sarcastically, rolling her eyes and taking the reluctantly offered bowl. "You had better behave yourself, Commander," she added a moment later. 

"Oh? And why is that?" he asked with a grin. 

"Because if you don't... I just might have to forget about that reward I promised you." 

"No way," he said emphatically. "Can't back out on a promise." 

She sighed, nodding her head in reluctant agreement. "I suppose you're right." 

Crane felt a moment of uncertainty amidst all the kidding they were volleying back and forth. Unsure, he leaned forward and switched to serious mode. "Teal, I don't want to do anything you don't want to do. I don't want you to feel obligated in any way. The dream thing, it's not that important..." 

She knew instantly that he was sincere. With a small smile she reached over and touched his hand. "I was just teasing, Lee. I never would have promised you something I didn't want to do in the first place. To be honest, I've been thinking that a long, hot bath with you there to scrub my back sounded like a patch of heaven." She watched the appraisal in his eyes, glad to see acceptance a few seconds later. "And as far as the dream thing not being that important... I have to ask. Have you ever acted out a fantasy before?" 

Lee blushed despite himself and looked down at his sandwich, searching for words. 

"Please look at me," she said patiently. "Talk." 

"Well, I've done it a couple of times. There was one woman I was involved with that really got turned on by certain... scenarios. Nothing weird or strange, mind you, but she had specific ideas and insisted I follow the program." He cleared his throat self-consciously. 

"That was her fantasy. I'm talking about yours. Didn't she ever play your games?" 

"She... she never asked about mine." 

Teal paused, wondering what kind of women Lee had taken up with. A frown passed over her brow and she felt a small pang of empathy for him. She had been fortunate in her relationships, the few that she'd had. Well, up until that last one, she corrected absently. But even that one had a lot of positives. 

"Her loss, then," she said evenly. "Playing out a fantasy is a wonderful game, and one that I would love to enjoy with you. It's supposed to be fun and fulfilling and when it's done right, it can lead to amazing intensity." 

"Everything we've done so far fits that description," he said with a low voice and a slightly shy grin. 

"No arguing there," she agreed. "Let's talk a little more about this tropical dream of yours..."  

iii 

Later that night, as he listened to Teal fall asleep, Lee Crane closed his eyes and thought back on the evening's activities. She had been right... within the confines of the fantasy he had been able to let go like never before, surprising himself with the passion it generated. The reality had been infinitely more satisfying than the dream.  

She had created a perfect atmosphere with a little effort; she'd even made tropical flowers out of colorful crepe paper and set them around the apartment. When he'd arrived from a two hour exile, he'd found the place warm with heat... she'd even increased the humidity level and found a small fan to create a breeze. Amazed, he'd listened for a moment before his mind registered the sounds of waves washing up on shore.

She'd explained later that it was part of her relaxation music, something that helped her to paint. He'd never heard of such a thing; in her shelves he had also found rain, crickets, birdsong, forest sounds, and thunderstorms. 

While the waves crashed into the imaginary shore, he'd surveyed the simply decorated room. Wondering how she had constructed the little flowers, he'd picked one up to examine it when he heard his name called in a sing-song voice. With an anticipatory grin teasing the corners of his mouth, he had headed towards the sound. The scent of tropical flowers had wafted past as he'd found her... She'd held her arms out in greeting, looking far more enticing than any dream figure he could have conjured. Soon the details of the encounter dissolved into one thrilling sensation after another. 

He smiled, thinking of her laughter afterwards. She had been delighted at his response, a spark in her bluish-green eyes as she handed him a drying towel. They had lounged on the couch for a while until the day's expenditures of energy caught up with them. Yawning widely, Teal had opted for bed and Lee didn't need pushing. She'd fallen asleep within minutes, leaving him alone with his musings. 

With a contented sigh he snuggled down next to her. Tonight they'd played out his fantasy... tomorrow would be her turn. A grin played on his lips as he thought about the eyepatch he'd hidden away. 

"I painted this one about a year ago," she said as they studied the large watercolor in the hallway. "See the tree where we had the picnic?" 

"It's beautiful," he said sincerely, admiring the delicate watercolor work she'd done. There was a wonderful sense of light and airiness to the painting that made him feel uplifted. "How long does it take to paint something like this?" 

"This one took me a couple of weeks to get the basics down. I can spend twice that long adding the details. You... want to see my studio? Some of my works in progress?" she asked as she bit her lip.  

He realized, then, that she was looking at him with a bit of apprehension. Her hesitation mystified him a bit, but he truly wanted to see what she'd done. "Of course I do," he said, giving her what he hoped was a reassuring smile.  

"Just in here," she said as she indicated a door he'd never even wondered about. He stepped into the room, finding what looked like happy chaos all around. Sketches and pencils and colored pastel chalks were lying helter-skelter on every flat surface; stacks of paper waited patiently on a far table. An array of jars and rags and charcoal sticks filled the shelves to the right; sunshine streamed in through the large window that took up most of one wall. 

There were three easels, each holding a different project. He stepped carefully, not wanting to disturb anything, and paused by the first. There was a large black and white sketch taped there, a rough study of a river winding through a grove of willows. Although details were missing, there was already a sense of flow and movement and solitude present. Clipped to the sides of the board there were five photographs, none of which was the scene in the sketch. He frowned at them and turned to ask a question of Teal. 

"This is an imaginary place," she explained before he could verbalize. "I found different elements that I wanted to explore and am trying to bring them together in one scene. Each of the photos carries one or two of the aspects I want in the final painting. See, in this one? The way the curve of the river is broken by the tree there? That's the only thing in this photo I need." 

"So you don't just paint what you see in front of you." 

"No. I paint what it makes me feel... and if I have to delete or add some things to get the message across, or to create a whole new scene, I do it." 

"I never knew anyone that was an artist," he said. 

"Admiral Nelson is one, if he designed the Seaview," she said with certainty. 

"I know he is an amazing man of many talents," he reflected, "but it never occurred to me that he might be classified as artistic." 

"Trust me. I bet he plays music, too." 

"The Admiral? I've known him for years and he's never mentioned playing music." 

"Which means nothing. I'd be willing to bet money on it. Anyway, this one I'll do in watercolors when I get the basics down." 

"And what's this one here?" he said as he moved to the second easel. 

"That's an oil I've been working on for a while. I started it, oh, maybe a month and a half ago." 

"I though you said it only takes a few weeks to do one of these things," he said, trying to understand. 

"Every one is different. This one is being stubborn. What I had in mind is not what's coming out on the canvas. Oils can be worked on slowly, and are very forgiving if you change your mind. I prefer to do my more complex work in oils; watercolors are quick and delicate, and a mistake is nearly impossible to correct." 

"But how can a painting become something you didn't have in mind?" he asked, a little lost. 

She gave a shrug. "Strange thing, the creative process. I don't know, Lee, I just paint." 

He frowned a bit and moved onto the final easel. 

"Now, this one doesn't look like an oil or a watercolor," he noted, peering closely at it.  

"It's an acrylic, you're right. Kind of in-between the two." 

"Is this one finished?"  

"Almost. See the petals on that peony on the right? I can't decide if I should go warmer or cooler there. It's just at the point where the light changes and I'm not sure if I want it more in the oranges or in the blues." 

"What difference would that make?" he asked curiously. "I mean, it's going to be beautiful no matter what color you make it." 

She gave him a gentle smile. "It matters to the mood of the piece. Do I want it to evoke a feeling of a new day, of the energy and potential of a morning? Or do I want it to be a more reflective study, something you'd see at the end of the day when everything is winding down?" 

"I never thought it was so complicated," Lee said truthfully, realizing he'd never given such things a second thought. He was almost embarrassed at his lack of knowledge. 

"Most people have no idea," she offered, seeing the look on his face. "I'd imagine it's the same way with your job. There must be a million factors involved when you're running a submarine, so many bits being fed from so many different places. I'm sure there's someone out there who thinks all you do is give orders and yell at the crew if they're not quick enough." 

"Hardly," Crane said with a grin. "I see what you're saying. I just never gave it much thought, this art stuff." 

"Well, now you have something new to think about," she said with a spark in her eye. 

"I have a whole lot of new things to think about, thanks to you," he answered, more serious than he'd intended. "Teal, this week..." 

"Is not over yet," she said, cutting him off. Please don't get serious on me now, Lee! she pleaded mentally, knowing it was hard enough accepting the fact he'd be going out of her life tomorrow. Goodbye time will come all too soon as it is!  

Lee watched the expressions flit across her face. For an instant he saw sadness, but it was quickly replaced by a broad smile. 

"Which reminds me," she continued amicably, " I have to take some time out today to meet with a colleague for a late lunch. You'll be on your own for an hour or so." 

"No problem," he said as he tried to suppress a smile. Perfect chance to surprise her with the pirate thing when she comes back! he thought. I want to make this an afternoon to remember! 

iii 

She gave him a quick kiss when she went to leave; he returned it with a long, smouldering one that promised of passion when she returned. Her delight was evident in her sea-colored eyes and she left with a genuine sigh of regret. 

Lee looked around and tried to come up with creative ideas for his surprise. He already had the eyepatch and a bandana to wear on his head; the cheap clip-on hoop earrings he'd bought at the drug store were waiting in the bedroom. He frowned, biting his lip. What else would a pirate need? he wondered. A sword! They always have those cutlasses in the movies! And maybe a scarf or something to tie around my waist...  

He found nothing larger than a kitchen knife and was perplexed until a thought occurred. Grinning, he rifled through the broom closet and found a long-handled feather duster. After searching for a bit he located the aluminum foil in the kitchen and set about wrapping the handle, forming the foil into a good imitation of a blade. He didn't know what to do with the feathers and decided to just leave them alone. He was halfway through the kitchen when the sudden thought struck him: those feathers could come in handy, indeed! Lee grinned wickedly, remembering how ticklish Teal had been at the picnic. He had teased her with a stray flower stem, causing her to laugh and shiver all at once. Perhaps, when he had 'captured' her, her tortures would begin with a thorough tickling session... His grin widened in anticipation. 

He changed into his black jeans and donned his white long-sleeved dress shirt. He studied himself in the mirror and rolled his sleeves up midway to his elbows. Good enough, he said with a nod.  

He wandered into the bedroom and searched for a scarf but wasn't quite willing to open her dresser drawers. Even after all they'd shared, he still felt uncomfortble invading her privacy. Not able to find anything, he went back to the coat closet and searched through it, giving a small exclamation of victory when he discovered a long red woolen scarf. Not quite like I had planned, he mused, but if things go well I won't be wearing it for very long anyway! 

He eyed the clock and saw the hour was almost up. Crane put on the bandana so it covered the top of his head and clipped one earring on. He jumped in shock at the pain the piece of jewelry sent through his earlobe. Ow! Damn! Do women have to put up with this all the time? he wondered. I guess their ears are... smaller or something. Blast! ..maybe there's an adjustment... He loosened what he thought was the right thing and tentatively tried it on again. It was much better; he couldn't fathom how women could stand to wear such painful jewelry just to look good. 

He slid the patch on, just to see the overall effect in the bathroom mirror. About as close to a pirate as I'm ever likely to get, he grinned, glad that none of his crew could see him now. He knew he should be feeling foolish and silly, but he could only think of the surprise Teal would have on her face. He found himself growing warmer as he imagined her enthusiastic response, her pleasure, as he acted out her dream fantasy. She'd described the pirate as forceful and intense, something he was sure he could mimic. She had the ability to draw responses from him that he'd never felt before; not for the first time he wondered exactly why that was.  

A noise down the hall alerted him to her imminent arrival. Flipping the patch down, he stood by the bookshelf just inside the doorway and crouched in readiness. 

iii 

"You really didn't have to go to all this trouble, Mrs. B.. I know how busy you are... you shouldn't have-" 

"Nonsense, dear. After such a harrowing ordeal yesterday you deserve some sort of treat. I used my own special recipe, you know. Took me years to get it just right." 

"I know that they are the best oatmeal cookies I've ever tasted, that's for sure," Teal replied truthfully.  

"Do you think your Captain will like them too?" 

"Why don't you come on in for a minute and see for yourself? I'm sure he'd love to say hello. He leaves tomorrow afternoon, you know." 

The white-haired lady looked deep into her young neighbor's eyes and a small smile appeared on her face. "And you are going to miss him, aren't you? No, no, don't bother to deny it. I understand. He's such a good looking boy, I can see how he could turn a girl's head. Too bad he's so skinny! I wonder if they even feed those poor boys on that submarine he's condemned to... " 

Teal laughed. "Oh, Mrs. B., come on. You can deliver the cookies in person and make sure he eats a few, okay?" 

"Well, if your sure it's all right," she said with an eagerness she could not hide. 

"Here, let me get the door for you," Teal offered, unlocking it for her companion. The older woman turned the knob and entered the apartment first. 

iii 

Lee tensed for the leap. As soon as Teal cleared the open door he would pounce, sure to surprise her. She arrived as predicted, and when she took a few steps into the room, he moved. 

"AH-HA!" he cried theatrically, brandishing his sword and leaping from his hiding place. 

A shrill, piercing scream rang in his ears as the woman before him went white as a sheet. To his utter horror, he saw it was not Teal. A hail of cookies clattered to the floor as the white-haired woman clutched at her heart, backing away in total shock. 

For one long, frozen moment, Lee Benjamin Crane and Norma May Barton stared in mutual astonishment at each other. Lee opened his mouth to say something... anything... but he could not make any words come. He closed his mouth, wishing for all the world that the floor beneath his feet would open up and swallow him whole. 

She blinked once, twice. Slowly her wide eyes took in his appearance... from his boots to the red sash to the eyepatch and earring. His makeshift sword, suspended in mid-air, made her brown eyes widen even further. 

Lee felt a hot blush sweep over his face. Nothing in his experience had ever equaled this moment... 

Teal let out a long, keening noise that Lee belatedly recognized as uncontrolled laughter. She howled with glee, the sound of it shattering the shocked silence. 

Mrs. B. continued to stare but there was a small twitch that appeared at the corner of her lips. Both hands went up to cover her mouth and she made a strangled little noise. To his complete mortification, Lee realized that the older woman had snorted in amusement. 

With all the strength she possessed, Mrs. Barton gathered her composure and tried very hard to keep her voice steady. "I...I see you are...are busy," she managed to say. "I'll, ah, just stop by s-some other time," she continued as she backed away, heedless of the crunching of cookies beneath her feet. By the time she reached the door she looked ready to burst into laughter but she exited without losing control. 

Teal was laughing so hard there were tears coming down her face. "Oh... my... god..." she said between breaths, "Lee!" 

"I..." was the only thing he managed to say. 

"A pirate! I love it!" she cried in a delighted, giddy voice. "Oh, god!" 

Lee cleared his throat, trying to think of appropriate words. He gave up after several tries and looked completely chagrined. 

Teal came over to him, crushing even more cookies as she crossed the wooden floor, and gave him a huge hug. As she laughed into his shirt a smile crept up on the Captain's face. He felt Teal go weak in the knees and he supported her, unable to supress a small laugh as she practically wept into his chest. By the time he guided her to the couch, he was chuckling.  

"Oh, the look on Mrs. B.'s face!" she exclaimed, wiping tears from her cheeks. "It was almost as good as the one on yours!" 

"I will never be able to face that woman again," he declared emphatically. 

Teal surrendered to another round of giggles and snorts. Her joy was infectuous and Lee gave up the last of his embarassment and joined her in laughter. It took several minutes for the pair to calm down enough to speak. Sparkling bluish-green eyes met shining golden ones and, after several failed attempts, they were able to talk in complete sentences. 

"You did all this for me," Teal said, touching his earring playfully. "Oh, what a marvelous surprise it was!" 

"I'm not sure your neighbor would agree," he said as he grinned. "But I know she was surprised! " 

"It wasn't the reception she expected, I'm sure of that," she said as she bit her lip against another urge to giggle. 

"It wasn't what I expected either," he said a bit ruefully. "I wanted to... well, you know..." 

"Give me my fantasy," she finished with warmth in her eyes. "It was one of the nicest gestures anyone's ever done for me, Lee. I really appreciate the thought." 

He gave her another grin and sighed. "Well, I guess I'd better go and change." 

"Change?" she asked, taken aback. "Are you crazy? After all the effort you went through?" 

"You mean..." he swallowed. "You mean that you still want to, ah, go through with it? The mood isn't really..." 

"Really what?" she teased. "Lee, even in my dream the mood wasn't serious and dramatic. Of course, if you don't want to proceed with this scenario, I'll understand..." 

He looked down at her and studied her for a few seconds. Her cheeks were slightly flushed from the laughter, and there was a spark, a light in her eyes that sent a charge through him the instant he made contact. The hopeful look on her face was his undoing, however. Incredibly, he found his interest growing and felt the first rush of heat wash through his body. Suddenly the embarrassment and chagrin were gone, replaced by a feeling of anticipation. Somehow she sensed the change and smiled. 

"Captain, do I see a gleam in your eye?" she asked with an eyebrow raised. 

"Aye, I think you might," he said as he licked his lips and looked her up and down. "You might at that." 

"Really. And what might that gleam be in regards to?" she said, playing along. 

He stood up and reached out his hand. "Come to me and I'll show you," he grinned wickedly. 

"Can't you just tell me?" 

"Talking is a waste of time," he said as he pulled her to her feet in a smooth motion. "I prefer action myself." With that he stepped close and drew her near him. When he bent down to kiss her, she surprised him by wiggling out of his grasp and taking a step backwards. 

"How dare you!" she said in mock indignation. "Why, no self respecting gentleman would take such liberties! I must protest your outlandish behavior, sir!" 

"Outlandish, eh?" he grinned broadly. "You haven't seen anything yet." He advanced towards her with a hungry look. 

"Indeed!" she exclaimed as she circled the couch. "Why, you're no gentleman at all! You're nothing more than a... a rogue and a scoundrel! A common pirate!" 

"Common?" he repeated in a low voice. "Oh, I'm anything but common, m'lady. Let me show you..." 

He reached for her and nearly succeeded in snagging her skirt, but she was quicker. Suddenly the makeshift sword appeared in her hand and she waved it in his general direction. Fighting hard to keep a serious voice, she said, "Stop right there, sir! I warn you, I shall defend my virtue any way I must!" 

"Are you sure you want it defended? I think I see a gleam of your own hiding in those eyes, m'lady." 

"Well, I never!" she protested. 

"Then it's about time you did," he countered, surprising her by a lunge for the sword. In an instant he had recovered the weapon and grinned as he turned the tables. "Now you are mine to do with what I will," he said with a spark in his eyes. "Into the bedroom, m'lady." 

"I refuse to go," she said defiantly, staring up at him while a laugh teased at the edge of her lips. 

"Fine," he said simply as he moved forward and swept her off of the floor in a fireman's carry. His long stride quickly brought them to the bedroom door and he opened it with a booted nudge. Unceremoniously he went to the bed and dumped her on it, shutting the door before turning back to his obviously interested partner. "Now, m'lady, you will do as I say or suffer the consequences!" 

"What consequences?" she demanded. 

"I shall be forced to use this weapon," he said, brandishing the aluminum foil blade. 

"I would rather be struck down by your blade, sir, than to submit to your... depredations!" 

"My blade?" he asked evilly as he moved towards her. "No, m'lady, tis not the blade I had in mind. It be... the feathers!" 

She drew in a dramatic breath and let her eyes grow wide. "Not... not the feathers!"  

With a predatory grin he closed the gap between them.  

iii 

She woke to find herself trapped by his arm across her waist. Smiling, she stretched carefully and rolled on her side to face him. Oh, how relaxed he looks, she thought to herself. This is not the same man that ran into me that day... I wonder if he'll be able to keep that peace once he leaves. I pray he does... he's one of the most fascinating and endearing men I've ever met. She was content to study him as he slept, letting her mind wander back across the time they'd spent together. No doubt about it, she would miss this multi-faceted submarine captain for a long time to come.  

He sleepily opened his amber eyes a few minutes later and answered her smile with one of his own. He pulled her close and gave her a kiss. 

"Hi there, handsome," she said quietly. 

"Hi there beautiful. Umm. What time is it?" he asked fuzzily, squinting at the alarm clock across the room. 

"Time to think about dinner, I'd say. For some reason I seem to have worked up quite an appetite." 

"Oh?" he said as he wiggled his eyebrows. She laughed. 

"Please, Lee, I'm talking about food here, nothing more." 

"How... how are you doing?" he asked seriously.  

"I am doing wonderfully well," she assured him. "I want to thank you for all your... efforts. I won't be able to watch another swashbucker movie the same way ever again." 

"Me either," he grinned a bit self-consciously. 

"What say we get showers and go out to my favorite place for dinner. My treat, of course." 

"Showers, plural? How about shower, singular?" 

"You can't be serious," she said with a wide-eyed look. "How on earth would you find-" 

"Don't worry, I'll be lucky if I have enough strength to squeeze the soap bottle. You have a way of tiring me out, m'lady." 

She laughed at his words and kissed his forehead. "Offer is accepted, then. Come on." 

iii 

"I hope you like spicy stuff," she said as they approached their goal. "They specialize in a shrimp etouffee that'll make you sweat just from looking at the dish!" 

"I don't like things too hot, but I'm able to tolerate some pretty spicy Thai food." He eyed the restaurant doorfront with a critical look. It was worn and weathered, but the smells that were emanating from the open door were enough to make him salivate. Peering at the name above the portal, he asked, "What does that mean, L'ecrivisse?" 

"Means crawfish. This is the best Cajun place on the coast, I promise you. The food is to die for and the music is terrific! The band is playing tonight, I'm glad we came early enough to get a good spot." 

"Band?" he echoed as she pulled him through the door. He took a moment for his eyes to adjust to the somewhat dim light. The old floor beneath his feet was smooth wood; the three large ceiling fans swirled lazily above him. He saw the tables layed out in a U shape, with what looked like a tiny stage at the far end. There were a couple of instruments there already, but no signs of any musicians. 

The place was fairly full, the noise from the multitude of conversations blending into a pleasant drone. Teal scanned the open tables, searching for a good choice, when someone called her name. 

"Teal, chere, dis way!"  

She answered the caller with a smile and a wave. "Henri!"  

Soon they had joined the man at his table. He rose with a genuine smile and kissed Teal on the cheek. For a brief, fleeting second Lee felt a pang of jealousy. 

"This is Lee Crane," she said as she introduced the two men. "Henri Breaux." 

The shorter man shook the Commander's hand with vigor. "Good to meet you, mon ami!" 

"Same here," Lee answered, relaxing at the man's congenial attitude. He sat at Henri's invitation after pulling out a chair for Teal. 

"Chere," Henri said in a thick Louisiana accent, "what be dis here?" He pointed to her wrapped wrist. 

"Just a sprain, nothing to worry over. Doesn't even hurt anymore, but I want to be careful." 

"Bon. Got to take care of dem talented hands, eh?" He looked at Lee for a heartbeat or two. "So, mon ami, you come here for de good food or de music tonight?" 

"A bit of both, I guess." Lee replied. "Teal said this was her favorite place." 

"Mais oui!" he laughed. "She be a fixture 'round here. Girl can' never seem to get enough of dat cajun stuff." 

"Henri, where's Irene?" 

"Ah, cherie, dat wife o' mine is home sittin' wit de two youngest ones. Got de chicken pops, dey do. She tol' me to go on and get out of de house for a bit... I tink I was getting underfoot." 

"Probably best for the both of you." 

"I had to promise I'd bring back some gumbo for her," he grinned. "Say, Lee, you like cajun food?" 

"I don't think I've ever had it before. It smells wonderful, though." 

"Mais oui, dat it does!" He hailed a waitress to the table. "Mon frere, you wan' a beer?" At Lee's nod he said, "Okay, cherie, two beers an' a-" 

"A gingerale. Yes, Henri, I know what to get for Teal. How long has she been coming in here and ordering the same thing?" With a wink the waitress exchanged friendly glances with Teal. "How are you doing, sugar?" 

"Fine, Melanie." 

The woman spared a fleeting look over at Lee and nodded in agreement. "I'd say better than fine." She left before anyone could comment, and the conversation resumed. 

It was decided they would all share a table for the evening; Lee knew this was not the kind of place that garnered intimacy. Henri was witty and genuine, and Lee found himself warming up to him easily. The three of them spoke of a variety of things while waiting for the food to arrive. The Captain found the older man's accent pleasant and a bit different than any french he'd heard. It was explained with pride that the Cajun french language had it's roots in old-old french that settlers had brought over to the new world and that it had not changed much in the ensuing 300 years.  

The food came and Lee got to sample several dishes. When he tried Teal's etouffee, he quickly grabbed the glass of water and tried to keep the tears from running down his face. She couldn't stop a laugh as she patted him on the back. 

"Oh, Lee, I'm sorry, I suppose I should have waited to add the hot sauce until after you tried it!" 

"How can you eat that stuff?" he choked in reply. "Wow." 

"I love it! It isn't hot enough unless you're sweating while eating," she declared with a grin. 

Henri chuckled and said, "Most cajun food isn't hot, mon ami. I tink de chere be jokin' wit' you here. She knew jus' what she be doin'." 

She blinked her bluish-green eyes innocently at the both of them; neither one was fooled for a second. Just then the band sounded a few tuning chords and Lee saw a delighted smile appear on Teal's face. 

"Uh-oh, we about to lose dis one, mon frere," Henri said to the other man. "She not gonna sit still for long." Sure enough, the band began playing and she fidgeted in her seat the instant the tune started. 

"How can you keep still with this music?" she asked. "Lee, would you like to try?" 

"Ah, actually, I think I'll sit it out for a while. The only dancing I know is the kind I'm forced to do at official functions. Waltzes and such. I don't think this is the same. Don't let that stop you, though." 

"Hi, Teal, wanna dance?" said a thin, brown-haired man as he came to the table. She shot to her feet in a second and flashed a smile at her tablemates. Just that quick, she was gone. 

Henri leaned back and laughed a little. "So, mon frere, how you get together wit' our little chili pepper, eh?" 

"Little chili pepper?" he repeated with a grin. The phrase fit her perfectly! 

"Mais oui. She got de fire dat's rare. I'm thinkin' dat you must be pretty special for her to bring you to dis place." He lit a cigarette and leaned back in speculation. 

"But you said she comes here all the time," Lee said with a puzzled frown. 

"Ah, but she don' ever bring no one. You be de first man she showed up wit' in... over a year now. Easy dat long." 

"You can't mean that she hasn't had a boyfriend in all that time." 

"Hmm. If de chere hasn't said nothing, it ain't my place to speak of it. So... how did you catch her eye?" 

"Actually I ran into her while trying to catch a bus." 

Henri grinned and nodded towards the large band-aid on Lee's forehead. "Dat from de collision?" 

"Afraid so. That's how she got her sprained wrist, too." 

"Looks like she did de forgive an' forget ting. Got de big heart, she does." 

"I couldn't agree more." Lee scanned the crowded dance floor and spied her gliding in perfect tandem with her partner, their movements smooth and effortless. She was a sheer pleasure to watch, the obvious joy on her face warming him completely. The song ended and another partner stepped up to her. With a smile she nodded and off they went, dancing a variety of a waltz that looked much more fun than anything he'd ever endured. Henri followed his gaze and spoke. 

"Down in Luzianne, de dance halls hold de contest to see who can be de smoothest couple on de floor. What dey do is put a glass of beer on top of de couples' heads. De dance begins and if you don' move smooth, you get wet and gotta leave. See, de idea is to glide graceful like. Some of de old ones look like dey floatin' on air." He pointed at the couples with his cigarette. "See how some of dem bounce like dey was on de trampoline? Not de true right way. Mais, our Teal, she knows what she be doin'. Dances jus' like a true cajun girl." 

"She's not cajun, is she?" 

"Mais non, mon frere. We adopted dat one. A pure bit o' sunshine." 

Crane smiled, agreeing wholeheartedly with the other man's sentiment. How wonderful this last week has been, he thought as he saw her laugh. Tomorrow it'll all come to an end and I'll be gone. How could it only have been a week? She's shown me so much... He took a sip of beer. She'll go back to her world and I'll return to being Commander Crane, Captain of the Seaview. I wonder how easy it will actually be, adjusting to work as usual. Surely she won't have trouble. He sighed. I wonder if I'll get the chance to come back. Well, maybe work will get hectic as usual and I'll be too busy to think about her. But even Lee didn't believe that particular lie. 

The evening continued on, Teal spending half her time at the table and half on the dance floor. Several women asked Lee to dance but he politely declined, much to their disappointment. Finally, the band announced the final waltz and she returned to Lee's side, sitting down with a thunk. 

"Aren't you going to dance the last one?" he asked curiously. "I saw that blond guy ask you." 

"Nope, the last dance is special and I'd rather be sitting here with you, enjoying the song." 

Her truthful declaration touched Lee. He took her hand and gave her a kiss, gazing into her eyes with gratitude. He moved next to her and put an arm around her shoulder as they watched the dancers finish the evening. He heard her humming softly to the tune and said, "Do you know what the words mean?" 

"I do. It's about a man who goes courting for his one true love. He's begging her mama to let him take her away to be his wife... but mama isn't sure. He has to really convince her he is a worthy choice for a son-in-law." 

"Do you know cajun french, then?" 

"I learned a little. You can learn anything if you care deeply enough about it," she said in a far-away voice. Lee realized she was completely and utterly right. 

iii 

They meandered home, neither one in a rush to get back to the apartment. When they drew near the park, Lee stopped and looked up, seeing the stars in brilliant display above them. 

"Shall we stargaze for a while?" he asked softly. 

"Sure."  

Silently they made their way to the bench by the lake where they'd first kissed. She leaned close and he put an arm across her shoulders. 

"I imagine you know all the constellations and the name of the stars;" she said as she stared upwards. 

"Yeah. Most of them, anyway. Have to, if you want to navigate." 

"Show me." 

He peered across the diamond canopy. "There, see that big one on the left, the one kinda by itself?" 

"Uh-huh." 

"That's Polaris, the North Star. See the Big Dipper there? You draw a line from the front of the bowl and it points right to it, every time." 

"So you always know where North is." 

"Exactly. After a while the stars seem like old friends. I could sit for hours and watch them, same as I did when I was a kid. Of course that gets a little difficult to do when you're below the surface most of the time." 

She gave a small laugh. "What's that one?" 

He snuggled her closer and introduced her to his version of Celestial Navigation 101. 

Lee woke up to an odd noise he couldn't identify at first. The early morning light revealed the mystery: Teal was mumbling and talking in her sleep. Amused, he listened to her conversation with who-knows-who, smiling when she said the word 'feather'. There was no distress on her face; she looked relaxed as she continued to talk and he wondered what she was dreaming of. 

Tomorrow I'll be waking up in my cabin, alone. Hate to admit it, but I think I'll really miss her, miss having her make me laugh, he said to himself. How can I feel this way about her when none of my other affairs, even the ones that lasted months, ever seemed to matter?  

She gave a soft sigh and curled into a ball, her movement snapping him out of his contemplation. He gave her a delicate kiss on her forehead and watched her wake slowly. She blinked several times before a smile blossomed on her face. "G'mornin'," she said as she reached out to touch his arm. 

"Good morning yourself. Are you hungry? I'd like to treat you to breakfast in bed, kind of return the favor from the other day." 

"Umm. Depends what's on the menu," she said with an impish grin. 

"Well, I think I can handle omlettes or scrambled eggs. Or pancakes, if you want." 

"How about...Lee, over easy?" she grinned as she reached for him playfully. She surprised him enough that he laughed. His laugh quickly became a sigh as she kissed a trail from his shoulder to his chest to his taut waist... Soon afterwards the sighs became noises of another kind altogether, and the subject of breakfast was postponed without protest.  

iii 

"When do you have to go to the boat?"  

"I'm supposed to meet Chip in the Mermaid Bar at noon. We set sail at three, but both of us need to get on board early." 

"I would imagine it's a pretty complex thing, getting a boat the size of Seaview underway." 

"Chip helps immensely; he's incredibly organized and seems able to stop problems before they get out of hand. He makes the job infinitely easier for me." 

"Sounds like the kind of person to have by your side," she said, seeing the way his eyes warmed when he talked of his best friend. She was glad he had someone to turn to on the sub. From the way he had greeted Nelson earlier, she surmised that they were friends as well. 

"Hey, would you like to join us at the Bar? I could introduce the two of you and we could have lunch." 

"I'm sorry, I can't. I have an appointment at one on the other side of town that I can't get out of. Maybe next time, huh?" she said as she studied the floor. 

"Teal," Lee said, his voice serious, "about next time... I don't know when I'll be able to come again. If the engines hadn't acted up we never would have pulled into port here in the first place. My job demands-" 

"Please, Lee, don't go there." When she looked up her eyes were soft. "I don't expect anything more than what you've already given me. I can't tell you how incredible this week has been, how much I have enjoyed your company. You are one of the most wonderful men I have had the pleasure to meet and I'm grateful for what we shared. I want you to leave with no regrets, no sense of obligation." 

He shifted uncomfortably, searching for something to say. Teal took his hand. "All I ask is that you remember how to play and have fun and relax when you can. To take time out to savor life. I will always look at this week with a smile... you have a lot to give, and anyone who gravitates towards you will be lucky indeed." 

He saw the sincerity in her eyes and had to smile despite the blush that appeared on his face. "I can't thank you enough for... for everything. I mean that. Maybe we could keep in touch with letters or something..." 

"Maybe." Teal gave him a wide grin. "Though you don't strike me as the kind of man that does that sort of thing. Unless Chip takes dictation..." 

Despite the emotions of the moment, Lee snickered. "I can see that now. Somehow I don't think it's in his job description." 

"Don't worry about it. Like I said, the week was phenomenal but it ends today... except for the memories, of course." 

"Of course," he echoed, not knowing what to feel. 

"Anything more would be icing," she said with a spark in her eye. "Now, Captain, could I interest you in a final wild ride?" 

"A wild-? Are you serious? After what we just did less than two hours ago?" he exclaimed, "To tell you the truth, I'm not sure I-" 

She snorted at his consternation. "I meant on my motorcycle," she clarified. "There's a view above the town that I think you'll enjoy. I'll be able to drop you off in plenty of time, I promise." 

"Sounds great. Let me pack my things and we can hit the road, so to speak." 

"Don't forget the eyepatch and the earring," she teased. "Never know when you might have to get tough with the crew!" 

"It'd be mutiny for sure," he said, trying to imagine the look on Nelson's face. It brought a chuckle and he went to gather his things, eager for one last adventure with Teal. 

iii 

He scanned the view in awe. From their lofty position Lee could see the entire town and the harbor as well; the sun made the waters below flash and shimmer. He was able to make out the shape of the Seaview, her silver hull glistening beautifully in the distance. 

"It's spectacular," he said emphatically. "What a magnificent view!"

"I discovered this place about three years ago. Dawn is just incredible to watch from here." She smiled in recollection. "It would be a terrific place to stargaze, too, I think."

"Perfect," he agreed as he took in the panorama. "It doesn't look like too many people get up this way."

"You can't access the road by car. Not too many know about it, and quite frankly I'm glad. It may sound selfish, but I'd like to see the traffic here kept to a minimum. It's one of my favorite places to come and think about things."

"I know a couple of places like that... but they don't hold a candle to this!"

"Well, I'm glad I brought you up to see it, then."

They regarded the vista for a few minutes until Lee glanced down at his watch and gave a sigh. "I think it's time to be getting back," he said with some regret.

"Hang on, Commander," she warned as they climbed on the bike. "I promised you a wild ride, remember?"

"But that's what we had on the trip up here!" he protested with a laugh.

"That? That was rehearsal, Lee. Here we go!"

In a flash they were gone, leaving dust and gravel and a spectacular view behind.

iii 

The kiss seemed to last forever, yet it ended far too soon. Breathless, they drew apart, each one finding a smile for their partner. 

"Have a wonderful journey, Lee," she said fondly. She stroked his cheek one last time. 

"Thanks again, Teal. I'll never forget this shore leave, that's certain." 

"Me either. Take care," she said as they hugged tightly. Stepping to her bike, she mounted it and waved.  

He watched her go, feeling a strange mix of sadness and joy. He turned towards street that led to the Bar, Chip, and his chosen life. Without looking back, Lee Crane moved on, the ghost of a smile on his face. 

iii 

Chip absently shelled another peanut as he sat at the table, a grin on his lips as he recalled the last week's adventures. Spending the whole time with Trish had been a pure slice of heaven... Lord, what a combination, he thought. Insatiable, creative and incredibly sexy in one delectable package! I wonder what she would like to do next month when we get together again in Santa Barbara? Hmm... maybe by then I will have recovered my strength! He glanced up as someone came through the door and hovered there. It was Lee; with a wave Chip caught his eye and beckoned him to the table. 

"Chip," the Captain said as he sat down. "How are you doing? Have a good shore leave?" 

"Wonderful," he replied with a lazy smile. "Simply wonderful." 

"And how is Trish? You look, ah, rested. You... didn't wear the poor girl out, did you?" he teased, a spark in his amber eyes. Chip's romantic encounters were legendary on board the boat. 

Chip gave a snort. "I think I might have met my match," he said. "Mmm, she was just what I needed. Best therapy a boy could ask for." The blond eyed his friend critically. "What the heck happened to you?" he said as he indicated the large Band-Aid on Lee's forehead.  

"Ah, well, it's kinda..." He stopped, running a hand through his dark hair. Managing to look both embarrassed and delighted, he continued. "I ran into someone, literally. She... we..." 

"A she?" Chip repeated hopefully. "A real live woman?" 

Although Crane frowned at his choice of words, Morton could read him clear as crystal. The light that had sparked in Lee's eyes told him there was more to the encounter than any mere collision. 

Lee finally sighed and smiled. "God, what a woman," he breathed. "Smart and funny and full of life. A real little chili pepper! I've never met anyone quite like her." 

"Oh yeah?" Chip asked, intrigued. "What's she like?" He signaled a waitress for a couple of beers and settled back to hear the tale. 

"She teaches art at an elementary school," Lee said, a bit uncomfortable at the grin that would not leave his face. "She was so interesting to be with. Her name is Teal Perkins, and I collided with her when I was running for a bus." 

"Teal, like the duck, or teal like the color?" 

Lee frowned. "How do you know that a teal is a duck? I never heard of it before." 

"Oh, you never know what little bits of information will come in handy," he said with a bit of smugness. 

"Like the duck," Lee answered with shake of his head. "She's as special as her name," he continued with a slightly far away look. "The most incredible blue-green eyes, a wicked sense of humor, this long auburn hair that felt like silk when-" 

"Here you go,' the waitress said as she set down the beer. "Having lunch today? Special is fish and chips, they're the best in town." 

"Ah, sure, that sounds good," Morton said, seeing Lee nod in agreement. The woman moved off as she scribbled busily on her notepad. Once she was out of earshot, Chip leaned forward and said, "You touched her hair?" 

"Did you know how wonderful it is brushing a woman's hair?" he asked dreamily, remembering doing that very same thing only hours before. 

Chip Morton regarded his friend with amazement. He had never, ever seen that particular look on his face before. Could it be true that Lee had finally gotten a little romance in his otherwise dismal social life? "Lee, what are you saying here? Where were you to be brushing her hair, for god's sake?' 

Lee hesitated, a blush coloring his handsome face with red. "I, ah, well, you see, when I ran into her I sort of caused her to have a sprained wrist." 

"And?" 

"Well, I didn't have a place to stay and she invited me to use her couch." 

"Her couch? You mean she took you back to her place, just like that?" Chip's blue eyes were wide with disbelief. This wasn't like Lee's usual luck at all! 

Crane's blush deepened further and he gave an embarrassed cough. "Well, I promised to help her around the place since she was injured and everything." He took a long swallow of beer and avoided Chip's gaze.  

The tall blond echoed his actions and tried to imagine this woman that had affected his friend so much. Considering his recent track record, he mused, even a schoolteacher might seem appealing. Poor Lee. I've been meaning to set him up with some fun dates back home, something to bring a real smile to his face. "So did you do anything together?" He asked, knowing the answer would be something incredibly mundane. "I heard there's a great art museum here in town." 

"Never made it to the museum," Lee stated. "Although we did make it to some of the Water Festival events." 

"You... how long did you stay there at her place?" the Exec asked curiously. 

"All week." Said so casually, he managed to surprise Chip with the answer. 

"Look at me, Lee," he demanded, wanting to get the real dirt. Golden eyes locked onto azure ones and he said, "Now, spill. I want details, and I want them now. What you did, where you went..." 

"Curiosity killed the cat," Lee warned with a teasing smile. 

"Satisfaction brought it back," Chip returned. "Come on." 

Lee drew a breath and said, "I never met anyone with such a... a passion for living. She made me laugh so much; we had fun no matter what we did. Always full of surprises." 

"Like what?" he pressed. 

Lee shifted uncomfortably in his chair, which only piqued Chip's interest. Knowing a bit of prodding was necessary, the blond leaned close and said, "Did you kiss her?" 

Expecting a flustered reaction, Chip was shocked when all his question generated was a satisfied, knowing smile. No doubt about it, Lee had kissed this little schoolteacher! Chip was thrilled to think that Lee had gotten that far, anyway. He was painfully aware of his friend's lack of success concerning romance in general. "So what else happened?" he demanded of his fellow officer. 

"Here you go, boys," the waitress said as she interrupted his interrogation with the delivery of lunch. "More beer?" 

"Yes, please," Lee said, flashing her a smile. She returned it with one of her own and left. 

Alone again, Chip tapped the table and waited expectantly for an answer.  

"Well, all kinds of stuff, I guess," Crane said, his previously assured manner gone. "You know." 

"No, I don't, and I want to find out!"  

"Chip, I'm not sure I want to go into details here." He picked up a french fry and began eating. 

At once, Chip Morton understood. No details because Lee had been too... proper. Too uptight to relax and have some physical fun for a change. While he couldn't imagine suffering from such a thing, he knew Lee wasn't able to just let go. It simply wasn't in his nature. 

The waitress brought fresh beer to the table and grinned at Lee when he thanked her. She gave him an appreciative glance up and down, smiling as she left to tend to other customers. Chip had seen the look countless times before. 

I guess he's not bad looking, Chip said to himself. All the women seem to like him well enough. He shouldn't have to settle for a dowdy teacher. Now, Sandra, there's a wonderful girl that enjoys being friendly. She owes me a favor, too... 

"We're due back in Santa Barbara in two weeks. How about if I arrange a double date? You might be on a lucky streak here." 

A frown flickered across the Captain's face; Chip's question bothered him for some reason. "Ah, we'll see. A lot can happen between now and then." 

"Trust me, you'll thank me for it." 

"Pass me the ketchup, would you?" Lee replied, ending the discussion. Chip knew when to let things rest and he changed the subject as required.  

Teal glanced worriedly at her watch, biting her lip when she realized time was slipping away quickly. Grabbing the package she gathered her resolve and headed out the door.

What if he's too busy to see me? What if he doesn't like it? What if he resents my popping up this close to his leaving? She tried to quell her doubts as she kicked the bike into gear. Traffic was light and she made it to the waterfront in near record time. 

Butterflies in her stomach made her take deep breaths as she pulled up to the dock gates. Parking the motorcycle, she tried to calm down. Gone were the foolish tears of an hour before; she had scolded herself for her emotional reaction to what was a simple, fun, finished affair. But that was the problem... it seemed to have meant more to her than she'd been willing to admit. She knew Lee would have no second thoughts, but her heart didn't seem to care about that. 

"Yes, ma'am?" the young guard asked her politely. "May I help you?" 

"My name is Teal Perkins. I'm trying to find Captain Lee Crane. Is he on board yet?" 

"Yes, ma'am, the Captain came aboard about an hour ago. Is there something I can help you with?" 

"I... I have something to give him. I suppose he's too busy to see me," she said, a wave of disappointment washing over her. Oh, how she had wanted to look in his eyes one last time! 

The guard noticed her suddenly sad look and gave a smile to the beautiful woman before him. "How about if I call the boat and see if he can spare a minute? If not, I would be glad to deliver whatever it is to him personally." She brightened a bit and he grinned at the change. 

"Would you?" she asked, looking tentatively hopeful. Clutching the flat parcel she gave a silent prayer her gift wasn't a mistake.  

"And once we're underway I want a full inspection of the rotor casings and a detailed analysis of the engine readings." 

"Aye, sir," Chip said smoothly, making notes on his ever-present clipboard. 

"Excuse me, Captain, but there's a call for you." 

"What? Oh, thanks, Sparks. I'll be right there," Lee answered, dropping the pencil onto the plotting table. Morton frowned; who could be calling this close to launch? All hands had been accounted for and the crew was settled in on board, including the Admiral. 

"... who?" Lee asked with a surprised look on his face. "Yes, I know her. At the gate? Well, send her down. I'll meet her on the dock. No, she doesn't need an escort, it's okay. Thanks." 

"Lee?" the tall blond asked when he saw the mixed emotions on his friend's face. "Anything wrong?" 

"No," he said, shaking his head. "Teal's here, she wants to see me." 

"The schoolteacher? Didn't you say goodbye already?" 

"Yeah. Maybe I forgot something at her place. Hey," he said with a bit of eagerness. "You want to meet her?" 

"I have a lot of things to tend to," Chip began, then went silent as Crane's expression fell. "Well, what the heck. Sure, I can spare a few minutes. O'Brien's taking her out and we have most of the preliminary work done." The Exec marveled at the way Lee seemed to perk up. Rolling his eyes as he followed Lee up the ladder, he tried to think of some polite lines to say to make a good impression on what was sure to be a shy, prim, proper little schoolteacher. Lee seemed impressed with her, however, and that's all that really mattered. 

iii 

Kowalski overheard the entire exchange and elbowed the Chief who was checking off a list nearby. "Hey, Chief, I think the Skipper's schoolteacher is here again. She's meeting him on the dock..." he whispered. 

The older man grinned. "I think I'd better go topside and make sure the supplies are being loaded on schedule," he said a little louder than necessary. "Ski, come on and help me." 

"Aye, Chief. Can do," the senior rating replied with mock seriousness. They were on the dock in a matter of moments. Choosing a good vantage point near the few remaining crates, they tried to look officially busy while eagerly searching for a sign of the woman. 

iii 

A crewman needed Commander Morton's signature on a loading manifest and he stopped to scan the paperwork. Lee continued on, picking up the pace as he spied a familiar figure walking towards him. With an uncertain wave of her hand, Teal gave him a small smile and clenched the packet tightly. His long stride covered the distance rapidly and he found himself staring down at her beautiful, slightly troubled face. 

"Something wrong?" he asked, absently touching her on the arm. 

"I... no, not really. I..." she stopped, staring at the dock. "I have something for you. To remember me by. And to remind you." 

"Teal, I'll never forget you, or any of this week. Remind me of what?" 

"Remind you to take time out for fun and for finding simple pleasures. Here," she said as she turned her sea-colored eyes to his face. "Unwrap it." 

Without a word he tore the brown paper off, his eyes widening in surprise as he uncovered a beautiful, detailed watercolor painting that looked similar to the larger one he'd seen hanging in her hall. 

"I... didn't have time to get it properly framed, sorry," she said uncertainly. 

"It's beautiful," he exclaimed, completely sincere. "You didn't have to-" 

"It's a watercolor sketch I did of the meadow... I liked it so much, I did the larger piece later. I thought that when you looked at it, it would make you think of the fun we had on the picnic that day." She bit her lip, hating how silly she sounded. "I hope you'll accept it." 

"Accept it?" he replied with a questioning look. "Of course I'll accept it! It's fantastic! You didn't have to do this... but I promise you I will enjoy it immensely. Thank you."  

She gave him a fragile smile, and he bent down to embrace her.  

The kiss grew rapidly into something much more than a thank you for a gift. 

iii 

Kowalski and Sharkey dropped all pretense of working and watched with interest. 

"I tell you, I never knew the Skipper had it in him. Geez, look at that!" 

"He must have had one hell of a shore leave," Sharkey said as he grinned. "He sure looked a lot more relaxed when he came on board." 

Both men grinned as they saw their somber, often moody Captain grinning from ear to ear when the kiss finally... finally... ended. 

"Mister Morton hasn't seen her yet," Ski said with delight. "Ten to one he's gonna be floored when he sees what the Skipper found. Look, there he goes. Nose in that paperwork... wish I had a camera!" 

iii 

Chip continued down the dock, lost in thought as he did some rapid mental calculations on payload and distribution. He looked up as an automatic response and stopped cold, not ten feet from Lee and his guest. 

There were not many things that could shake Chip Morton's legendary cool, but he encountered one of them in that moment. Where he had fully expected to see a plain, nondescript woman standing shyly by the Captain, he found a gorgeous auburn-haired beauty with a figure that made his heart skip a beat. The bright smile she offered him was reflected in her astonishing eyes and he could do nothing but stare. 

Teal looked at him with puzzlement... why was he looking at her so oddly? She turned to Lee in question and he cleared his throat. 

"Chip Morton, I'd like you to meet Teal Perkins. Teal, Chip." She stepped forward to shake his hand but the Exec didn't move at first. "Ah, Chip? Something wrong?" Lee asked, mystified by the behavior. 

"Oh, no, sorry," he said quickly, snapping out of his surprise. He swallowed in chagrin and held out his hand. He couldn't get over the fact that this was the woman Lee had been with for a week! Lee! "I, ah, was thinking of a problem there." 

"Pleased to meet you, Chip. Lee's told me quite a bit about you." 

"The pleasure is all mine, I assure you. We... haven't had a chance for Lee to say much about you..." 

"You are both so busy, I really appreciate you taking the time for me. I don't want to keep you from your duties," she said with a bit of reserve.  

"Chip, look what Teal just gave to me," Lee said, the happiness in his voice obvious.  

Chip examined the painting and a genuine smile appeared on his face. "It's terrific," he said as he scanned the work.  

"She painted it," Lee informed him proudly.  

Morton looked at the woman before him and then back at the picture in his hand. "But I thought you were a schoolteacher. Surely... this is no hobby." 

"Hmm, more like a passion than anything else." 

Before he could respond, a ringing bell signaled the final twenty minutes before launch. With a regretful sigh, Chip gave her a final smile. "I'd better get going," he said. "Lee, I can see to the last details if you'd like a few more minutes here." 

"Thanks, Chip. I'll be back on board shortly." He flashed his Exec a look of gratitude. 

"Nice meeting you, ma'am," Chip said with a grin, ignoring the trace of shock that he was still feeling. "Hope we can get together in the future." 

She was silent as she watched the blond hurry towards the boat. Then she turned to her tall, lean companion and managed a smile.  

"I'm glad you got a chance to meet," Lee said, tilting her face up to his. In her haunting eyes he saw a mix of regret and sadness and joy all at once. It was a mirror to what he was feeling in that exact moment. 

"Me too. Now I know you really do have someone to care for you. Lee, about the painting... I don't want you thinking it means more than a... remembrance. I just want you to remember how special you are and how happy you made me." 

"I will hang this in my cabin and think of flower chains and cloud pictures every time I look at it... that, and other wonderful, magical things," he added with a grin. Her look of uncertainty was replaced with one of delight when she heard the truth in his voice. 

"Seaview needs you, Lee. I have been selfish enough this week. Have a safe voyage." 

He kissed her one last, bittersweet time. She clung to his strong body with all the force she could muster and was surprised when he lifted her off the ground, twirling her in a circle. She laughed at his actions and he gave her a smile that she would never forget. 

"Until we cross paths again, Teal. Take care, okay?" 

"I'll be on the lookout for crazy sailors running for buses, I promise," she said with a teasing spark in her eyes. "One experience like that one is more than enough!" 

"Oh, I don't know," he said philosophically. "Didn't turn out to be such a bad thing now, did it?" 

"Definitely not," she agreed. She closed her eyes as he kissed her forehead and squeezed her hand. No more words were spoken as he turned towards the Seaview. She watched him speak to one of the crew as they neared the boat. With one final wave he bid her goodbye, disappearing quickly down the hatch. 

She stood on the dock for a minute more, studying the lines of the craft that had moved her so. Then, with a satisfied sigh, she sent Lee a smile and headed back the way she had come. 

"Well, Chief, did you two get an eyeful of Lee's private business?" Nelson asked as Sharkey came from the dock. He inhaled the last of his cigarette as he gave the pair a sideways glance. 

"No, sir, we just-" 

"Francis," he warned with a twinkle in his eye. 

"It's just like... such a rare thing for the Skipper, sir. And you got to admit, she's easy on the eye, if you know what I mean." 

"I believe you're right on both counts. Lee did have an odd, sort of dazed look on his face when he passed me by a minute ago. I find that... interesting. Very interesting." 

"He didn't have nothing on Mister Morton," the Chief added with delight. "Man, did you catch that expression on his face when he saw who was clinging to the Skipper?"  

At that, Nelson chuckled. "Aye, Sharkey, I did. Seeing our indomitable Exec's composure falter was worth the price of admission. Let's get this show on the road, shall we?" 

Chip jumped to his feet when Lee finally entered the Officer's Lounge in search of coffee. They were alone and he practically pounced on his best friend. "Why didn't you tell me she was such a knockout?" he demanded indignantly. 

"I told you she was nice looking, didn't I? What did you expect?" 

"I expected... well..." Chip paused, not sure what to say. "She sure didn't fit my image of a schoolteacher," he finished with a scowl. 

"Mine either," he admitted, grinning. He sat down at the small table and stirred sugar into his coffee cup. Suddenly Chip's blue eyes widened as a thought hit him. 

"Lee," Chip said in a horrified voice, "do you mean to say you spent an entire week with someone like her and the only thing you two did was kiss?"  

Crane took a slow sip of the sweet black liquid and arched his eyebrow at his friend. "I never said that all we did was kiss." 

"But you said in the Bar that-" 

"That I didn't want to go into details. Not that there wasn't more to the week." 

"I'll be damned." He looked at the smirk on Lee's face. "And you aren't going to clue me in, are you?" 

"Let me toss a few words your way and you can come to your own conclusions. Maple syrup. Flower chains. Elevators. Lagoons. Picnics. Pirates." With that Lee rose, a grin plastered on his face. He had never seen Chip's eyes quite that wide... 

He left the Exec to his speculations and laughed all the way to the bridge.  

Life was good, very good, and there was a excellent chance that it would get even better.