Disclaimer: Paramount owns them. I'm just borrowing them. Summary: After an away mission goes wrong, B'Elanna is being haunted.Takes place in the second season. Rated NC-17Chapter One*Captain's Log* We have come across a planet, and after several scans, have learned thatit is rich with supplies and minerals. The food alone could keep us fedfor months.   I have contacted the leader of the inhabitants of the third continent.We will meet with him shortly and get permission to forage for food andminerals. I look forward to this meeting. I have a feeling it will gowell. *End Log*   Tom Paris was glad to have a day off from flying. As much as he lovedto pilot the ship, a day off was welcomed. Time away from the helm seemedto make him love flying all the more.   They were orbiting the planet that promised them their much neededsupplies. The meeting with the  Councelor was being held in two minutes.The Captain had asked for all her senior staff to be present.   Tom was heading towards the Bridge now to join them. He was enteringthe turbolift when B'Elanna Torres came  up to him.   "Morning, B'Elanna," Tom said as he stepped into the lift, "going tothe meeting?"  B'Elanna nodded and followed him into the lift. "Bridge."  The two travelled in silence. There really wasn't anything to say.Lately, if they did try to talk, it ended in an argument. Now, they triedto speak to each other as little as possible. Neither really enjoyed it,but they were not going to tell the other that.   The doors opened onto the Bridge. They stepped out, and made their wayto the Conference room. When they entered, they were met by strangelooks. It was a rare sight indeed to see them do anything together otherthan argue. The only chairs left open were together. Tom and B'Elanna sat next toeach other, and waited for the captain to open the meeting.   Captain Janeway entered with the High Councilor. The alien had purpleskin and black hair that looked more like feathers. His violet eyes werebright and full of excitement. He continued to stand as Janeway sat. Sheopened the meeting with, "This is High Councelor Telar. He is willing tohelp us."   She looked at Telar and he continued, "There are two places on mycontinent that have the minerals you need. I have talked to two of myaides. They are willing to guide you to these places.      "Also I have spoken with our harvesters, and they will give you allthe food you need."    The officers looked back at Janeway when Telar finished speaking. Shenodded and spoke, "They agreed to have four crew members sent down."   "I'll lead an away team down, Captain." Chakotay spoke.   Janeway nodded, "Good. Have Neelix, Torres, and Paris accompany you.You will beam down at 1300. Any questions?"  They looked at each other. No one had any questions.   "Good. Prepare for tomorrow. Dismissed."   They filed out of the room as Janeway sat back in her chair. It hadgone well. Finally, after many long months, Voyager would have thesupplies and the food it needed. Chapter Two   The group appeared at the edge of a forest. They took out theirtricorder and scanned the area. They didn't walk very far before theycame across the High Councilor.   "Greeting," Telar announced.   Telar was with two other aliens. Obviously, his aides. The aides wereshorter than Telek and wore white robes, instead of the blue robes thatTelar wore. Their hair was red instead of black. The away team went tothe three.   "Greetings, Telar," Chakotay greeted with a smile.   Telar introduced his aides, "This is Janar and Aldel. They will be yourguides to the minerals."   "Good. When do we begin?"  "Telar smiled, "When ever your ready."   Chakotay nodded and turned to the group, "Neelix, your with me. We'llbe with Janar. B'Elanna, Tom your will Aldel. Shall we?"  B'Elanna and Tom looked at each other. Each one wondered if Chakotaywas trying to force them to confront each other and talk. They were bothtold to stop arguing, because it was now affecting their duties. Theycouldn't do anything together without yelling. The crew were now noticingthe way they avoided each other. They wouldn't even sit with the other ifthey happened to be in the Mess Hall at the same time.  "Ready?" Aldel asked, interrupting their thoughts.   The two nodded and Aldel headed off into the forest. Tom and B'Elannaopened their tricorders and followed the alien. The two didn't look ateach other. They looked up every once in awhile to make sure Aldel wasstill in front of them.   Suddenly, B'Elanna tripped. Tom caught her before she fell. Thehalf-Klingon yanked her arm out of his grip and glared at him.   "I don't need you're help," she hissed, not noticing the shockedexpression on Tom's face.   "I'd like it if you would just leave me alone!"   Tom's eyes bulged then narrowed, "Leave you alone!? How much more wouldyou like me to leave you alone?"   B'Elanna continued on, not seeing Tom snarl. She heard his angryfootsteps behind her. She knew then that a huge argument was about tostart. If he wanted one, she was ready.   "Answer me!" Tom shouted, keeping himself from grabbing her andspinning her around. "How much more can I leave you alone? We practicallynever see or speak to each other unless ordered!"   B'Elanna didn't look at him as she answered, "You could go back to theship for all I care. You don't need to be here."   Tom nearly stopped in his tracks at that, "What?! Listen here, honey,Janeway had me come along. She must think I could be of help. If youdisagree talk to her!"   B'Elanna laughed which brought another shocked look from him, "She onlyhad you come along so you wouldn't whine about being bored."   Tom stopped then. He was too shocked to reply, but he continued to walkafter a moment. He stared at his tricorder when he finally found hisvoice, "I see. You just think I'm only good for piloting the ship. I cando other things, you know."   The half-Klingon snorted, "Oh, I know about you other talents."  Tom glared at her, "What the hell is that supposed to mean!?"   She looked at him. She saw the anger in his blue eyes. She was shockedat the intensity there. She almost backed down, but her own, Klingonanger took over her mouth.   "You should know," she spat at him. "The rumors are all over the ship.Women can't stop talking about how good you are."   Tom kept himself from hitting her. Instead, he let his anger controlhis mouth."   "What women!?" Tom shouted, his arms flying around in his temper."They're just rumors, B'Elanna! I just dated a few of them! Are youjealous or something!?"  B'Elanna glared at him. She saw the fire in his eyes, and suddenly shewas aroused.    The two were not watching where they were going. Aldel was further awayfrom then, and had no idea was happening. The half-Klingon was about toshout back when Tom vanished from her sight. She heard a scream then allwas quiet. She stared a few minutes at the place Tom had just been.Realization finally hit her.   "Tom!" B'Elanna shouted. She nearly fell in the hole when she ran afterhim. She looked down, and saw the pilot lying at the bottom.   "What is it?" Aldel's voice came to her. He heard the yell, and ranback to the two. He looked down and saw Tom's form.   "Oh, no," Aldel whispered. "He fell in a 'let'en.' It's used to trapprey for food."   B'Elanna barely heard the alien as she tapped her commbadge. She couldhardly keep her voice from shaking as she spoke, "Torres to Voyager.Medical emergency. Beam Lt. Paris to sickbay."  The two watched as Tom's form vanished from their sight. B'Elannatapped her badge again, "Torres to Chakotay."   "Go ahead."   "Tom's been injured. He fell in a hole. He's in sickbay now. I'm goingthere as well."   There was a pause then Chakotay spoke, "All right. I'll inform thecaptain. Chakotay out."    B'Elanna turned to Aldel. Her face mirrored the shock in her eyes. Shetook a deep breath and said, "I'm going back to Voyager. Janeway mightsend some more people down to continue the search for minerals."  Aldel nodded, "You're friend needs you more. I understand."   She nodded then tapped her badge one last time, "Torres to Voyager. Oneto beam up."Chapter Three The Sickbay doors opened for the third time since Tom was beamed in.B'Elanna Torres stopped to see that Chakotay and Janeway were alreadythere. She saw the worry in Janeway's eyes. The half-Klingon was worriedas well. Tom was her friend, even if they did nothing except argue.   B'Elanna joined her commanding officers as they waited for the results.She looked at the biobed Tom was lying on and closed her eyes. She took ashaky breath and opened them.   Tom didn't look any better as the EMH worked on him. He was deathlypale and still. He was barely breathing.   The three watched helplessly as the Doctor worked over Tom.  Finally,the hologram walked over to them, his face grim.  "How is he?" Janeway asked, concerned.  The EMH looked at his tricorder then answered, "I've stopped theinternal bleeding and mended the broken bones. I've healed the damage tohis head, but the damage has left him in a coma." The group stared at each other. This news was not good. B'Elanna feltterrible. If they hadn't argued Tom might not have been injured. Sheclosed her eyes and swallowed. "Will he wake up?" B'Elanna asked, bracing herself for the answer. "I don't know," the EMH said. "He is stable for the moment. With time, heshould wake up. Just don't expect it to be anytime soon.""Thank you, Doctor, "Janeway said. "Keep us informed."The Doctor nodded and went back to the biobed. B'Elanna continued tostare at the inert form. She still felt guilty and suddenly wished forhim to be all right. She jerked when she felt a hand on her shoulder. "Captain," B'Elanna said, relaxing a bit. "B'Elanna, Tom's in good hands. You need to get back to Engineering."The half-Klingon nodded slowly. Janeway was right. She couldn't doanything for Tom now, and she was needed in Engineering. She sighed andfollowed the captain and Chakotay to the turbolift. ~~Two hours later, B'Elanna was testing the new minerals that had beenbrought back from the planet by another survey team. They had collectedan assortment of minerals. Most of them could be put to good use inEngineering. B'Elanna was testing these minerals now. She was pleased to find that some of these minerals were the much neededdilithium. She told Janeway this then went right to work on testing tosee if they were usable. Half of them were. Now, she was testing theother minerals to see how they could be used. B'Elanna stifled a yawn as she watched the computer test the umpteenthmineral. It was quite tedious work now that the excitement had worn off.She knew she could have had anyone else do these tests, but she neededsomething to keep her mind off what had happened to Tom. She still feltguilty for arguing with him. Now, she was just tired. Her mind didn'teven seem to wander anymore to the deathly ill pilot in Sickbay. Most of the Gamma shift had gone to eat leaving her with only a coupleensigns to watch the engines. She was almost dozing off when she  heardsomething. She sat up straight and looked around. She then noticed thatthe computer had finished. She smiled slightly and punched some keys forthe results. "Just like the last one," B'Elanna whispered, "and the one before that.They're all usable."B'Elanna set that crystal aside and tested another. She yawned again andwaited. She was just about to fall asleep when she heard her name beingcalled. "Yes," she said, getting up. B'Elanna stepped out of her office and saw the two ensigns busy at aconsole. "Did either of you call me?" She asked, confused. They both shook their heads. B'Elanna blinked and went back into heroffice. At that moment, the computer had finished its test. "Interesting. This one isn't good. I guess a rotten apple doesn't spoilthe bunch after all."She smiled at that. The phrase was something Tom had told her once. Shehad asked what it meant and he told her. Her smile faded as she thoughtof him lying in Sickbay. She shook her head to force the guilt away. Shehad work to do. B'Elanna tossed the crystal away and tested the last mineral. This timeshe kept herself alert, yet she heard her name being called again. "Who's there!" She shouted, bringing the ensigns to her office. "Something wrong, Chief?" One of them asked. B'Elanna looked at them. They both wore concerned expressions. She woreone of confusion and a hint of fear. She shook her head as she stood up. "Nothing, Ensigns. Holland, you're in charge until Nicoletti gets back.I'm taking the rest of the night off. I need it."The ensigns watched her leave. Both agreed that she needed the night off.In fact, she needed two nights, but they weren't about to tell her that.Chapter FourB'Elanna went to work the next day still pondering what happened lastnight. She had gone over it several times as to why she heard her namebeing called. She finally passed it off as the result of not havinganough sleep and too much work. She entered Engineering and was immediately handed a datapadd. She tookit and saw that it was a report on the minerals she tested last night. She smiled at Sue. It seemed the Lieutenant had spent the rest of thenight testing the remaining minerals and writing up a report. B'Elannanodded her thanks, and headed toward her office. Once inside, she satdown in her chair and began to read. Twenty minutes later, B'Elanna had finished reading. She added her owntouches, and prepared it for the meeting tomorrow. She set aside thedatapadd and began working on her report of the away mission. With allthat had happened she never got around to writing it. B'Elanna knew itwould be s hort, but it had to be done. B'Elanna fought down her guilt when she began describing Tom's accident.She knew they should have been more careful, knew they should have paidmore attention to where they were going. She knew they should have beenarguing, but they did, and now she was sorry for it.She set her padd down, and closed her eyes. She could still see Tom'sbroken body at the bottom of the pit. She drew a shuddering breath andfought back the tears. "B'Elanna."B'Elanna's eyes flew open at the mention of her name. She looked out ofher office, and saw her staff working. She sighed and stood up. Sheneeded to get back to work. She left her office and began working on a console in front of the warpcore. She tapped in commands to see how much of the dilithium crystalscould be used. The results were pleasing. B'Elanna."The engineer spun around, but no one was behind her. She looked to herleft, and saw an ensign. "Did you need something, ensign?" B'Elanna asked. The ensign looked confused, "I didn't say anything, Chief."B'Elanna was confused. She told the ensign to continue as she went toanother station on the other side of the core. She began a scan and readthe results."B'Elanna."She looked up, but no one was near her. Frustrated, she demanded to knowwhat was going on. "Who keeps calling my name?" B'Elanna asked, barely holding her temper. The staff looked at each other then at her. All their expressions weresimiliar: a mixture of confusion and concern. "No one here, Lieutenant." Lt. Carey said, going to her. He put a handson her shoulder and said, "You've been working hard, B'Elanna. Maybe youshould take a break."B'Elanna nodded, "Maybe it's stress. I think I'll go see the Doc. You arein charge until I get back."Carey agreed, "Your engines are in good hands."B'Elanna smiled her thanks, and headed for Sickbay.~~As she walked toward Sickbay, she felt her heart begin to pound. Going tosickbay meant she would see Tom, unconscious. She tried to controlherself, tried to get a grip on the guilt and fear building up insideher. She drew a deep calming breath as she forced herself to enter theturbolift and order it to her destination. She closed her eyes and leanedagainst the wall. She let out a shuddering breath as she fought thetears. *He'll be all right,* B'Elanna told herself. *He's a fighter. He's alwayssurvived before.*Some how it wasn't enough. She needed him to be all right. She needed tosee him open his eyes and speak to her. The lift doors opened and she forced herself to walk the rest of the wayto Sickbay. She fought down the guilt as it tried to work its way up. Shedrew another breath and walked through the doors. Her gaze instantly fell on Tom's inert form. She went over to him, andher guilt washed over her. She brushed a stray lock of blonde hair offhis forehead, not realizing her eyes filling with tears. "I'm sorry, Tom." B'Elanna whispered, her voice cracking, "If we hadn'thave argued...""Lt. Torres?"B'Elanna jumped at the voice. She relaxed when she saw the EMH. "Hi, Doc," her voice was almost a whisper. "Is something wrong?" The Doc went over to her,  his medical tricorderout. He scanned her as she explained. "I've been hearing things, Doc. I thought it was due to working too muchand not enough sleep.""When was the last time you had a full night's sleep?"B'Elanna sighed and thought for a moment, "Three days ago. I was tooexcited about the mission to really sleep."The EMH raised an eyebrow at her. She hadn't been in for her medialcheck-up in awhile either. She was due for one those three days ago. Hescowled at her and continued to scan her. "How long have you been hearing things?""It began last night when I was running some tests on the minerals wefound."The Doc looked at his tricorder and tapped some buttons. He read theresults and nodded, "You are under stress, Lt. Torres. What I can tellyou is to take a break for a couple days. Your staff can do without youfor that long."B'Elanna was about to protest, but a stern look from the Doc and a suddenfeeling of exhaustion stopped her. She looked over at Tom. Her worry andguilt returned. She stroked his hair and asked, "How is he?"The Doc saw the concern on the half-Klingon's face. He had an idea thather concern for the pilot might also have contributed to her stress. "He's stable," the EMH answered, "There has been no change, though. Hestill in a coma."B'Elanna slowly nodded. It had been two days now. The EMH had said not tocount on Tom waking up anytime soon. It concerned her more than she caredto admit. "Thank you, Doctor," she whispered. "I think I'll go to my quarters now."The Doctor watched her leave. He had a feeling she felt guilty for Tom'scondition. She believed she had put him there. He hoped the pilot wouldwake up soon, if nothing more than to put B'Elanna at ease. Chapter FiveB'Elanna entered her quarters, and went to the replicator. She ordered acup of tea then sat down on her couch. She took a sip and sighed. She hada rough couple days, and she did need a break. She reminded herself tothank the Doc the next time she saw him. She took another sip of tea and felt the stress of the past two daysslowly ebb away. She closed her eyes, and settled back into her couch. B'Elanna was just about to doze off when she heard her name. She sat upstraight and looked around. She saw nothing. Fear growing inside her, shemade a move to tap her commbadge. Suddenly, she felt a cold sensationgrab her hand. "No," a voice from nowhere filled the silence. B'Elanna stared at the emptiness before her. The disembodied voice wasfamiliar, but it couldn't be. "What is going on?" B'Elanna demanded, anger banishing her fear.The coldness left her hand. She rubbed her hand to warm it. She lookedaround her living room to see that nothing was there. "What is going on? Answer me!"Before her eyes a blurry image began to appear. B'Elanna stared at it asit began to take shape. It grew legs, arms, and a head. Like a photoappearing on paper, the figure began to clear. B'Elanna's jaw dropped asTom Paris stood before her. "Kahless!" B'Elanna whispered, stunned. "Hello to you too, B'Elanna," the form spoke, his voice mischievous.B'Elanna shook her head, and backed away. She spun around, heading forthe door. Tom's voice stopped her before she went far. She froze, facingthe door. She closed her eyes as she told herself that she was dreaming.She slowly turned around, to prove tp herself that Tom wasn't there. Whenshe opened her eyes he was still there. "Tom?" B'Elanna whispered, not believing her eyes. The form nodded and walked toward her. B'Elanna began to back away. "Don't go," the soft voice pleaded to her. It startled her to a stop. Shelooked at him, his blue eyes begging her. "I want to talk to you," Tom spoke, stepping closer to her. B'Elanna saw that the form was sharper now, more solid. She relaxed alittle as she realized that she had something to say to him as well. Shenodded and motioned for them to sit. They sat down and stared at eachother for several minutes. Neither believed what was happening, but theyknew enough to take advantage of it. Tom finally spoke first. "I don't remember much. I do remember the arguing." B'Elanna flinched atthat. It had been on her mind for two days since the accident. Tom'svoice recaptured her attention, "After that, I saw my body lying in thepit."B'Elanna stared at him. "You left your body?!"Tom smiled a little, "Yes. I saw everything, B'Elanna. I saw myself onthe biobed.  I saw how worried you were. I wanted to comfort you; toprove to you that I was still here."Realization dawned on her. Her eyes widened, "It was you the whole time.You've been calling my name."Tom nodded, "I'm sorry if I made you think you were going crazy. I wastrying to get your attention.""Well, you've got it, Tom." B'Elanna smiled. She reached out to touch hischeek. She felt a shiver go through her. It felt cold and exciting at thesame time. He was still here, she realized. She could still talk to him,could still touch him, see him. Yet, there was something missing."Tom, you have to get back into your body."The pilot stared at her. His blue eyes were cold as they bored into hers.When he spoke,  his voice was harsh."Why? I'm still not wanted here. No one..."B'Elanna was shocked. She had to convince him that he was wrong, "Tom,you're our best pilot. You're needed here. We need you."Tom shook his head. "Needed and wanted are two different things,B'Elanna. You're all better off without me."She shook her head. She was about to argue with him. She was about totell him that he was wanted when he suddenly vanished before her eyes.Stunned and hurt, she reached out to touch the space where Tom had been.The tears began to fill her eyes as the guilt washed over her. She letthem fall as she believing she had made him think he wasn't wanted. *I shouldn't have said those things to him,* B'Elanna thought with pain,*I shouldn't have argued with him.*The tears fell freely as she continued to berate herself. Yet, there wasa part of her that was determined to get Tom back into his body. Chapter SixThe Mess Hall was not crowded as Harry Kim walked in. He spotted B'Elannasitting alone in the far corner of the room. He had heard that she hadbeen acting strangely since she returned from the away mission. Careytold him one day that B'Elanna was hearing things. She actually took aday off because of it. Harry grabbed a tray, and headed over to B'Elanna's table. He wanted toget to the bottom of this and he wanted to know the reason for herstrange behaviour."Hello, B'Elanna," Harry said, setting his tray down on the table. B'Elanna looked up from the datapadd to see the ensign sitting down. Shenodded to him then returned to her report. In truth, she wasn't reading,she was thinking about Tom. She was shocked by what he said to her. Shehad to get through to him that he was an important member of the crew. Hewas their best pilot and they needed him. "What are you reading, B'Elanna?" Harry asked, picking through his food. B'Elanna jumped at the voice.. She had been deep in thought again. Shelooked at Harry and said, "Just reports. They're due tomorrow."Harry took that as his cue to discuss her current problem. He cleared histhroat and began, "Lt. Carey mentioned to me that you've been understress lately."B'Elanna's eyes narrowed. "Really?"The ensign swallowed, "He's just worried about you, B'Elanna. We all are.Care to tell me what's wrong?"B'Elanna sighed. She really needed to talk to someone about this. Sheknew Tom could be even more stubborn than her at times. Maybe Harry couldhelp. She knew she was going to need it. She swallowed and said, "I have been under stress lately, Harry. I'vebeen feeling guilty."Harry's eyes widened, "About what?"B'Elanna closed her eyes, "About Tom. If we hadn't have argued down onthat planet, he wouldn't have fallen into that pit. He wouldn't be in acoma."Harry could see the guilt and concern in her dark eyes. He also saw ahint of fear as well. *She must really be in turmoil,* he thought. *to think she caused Tom tobe in his condition.*"It's all right, B'Elanna." Harry comforted, "I'm sure he doesn't blameyou. It was an accident."B'Elanna smiled a little. "He doesn't blame me, Harry.""How do you know that?"B'Elanna's smile fell, "Tom has visited me. He told me that he left hisbody when he fell. He has been calling my name.""Why?" Harry was confused. Was this what have been causing her stress? "He wanted to comfort me. Tell me he doesn't blame me for his condition.If only I could do the same."Harry smiled, "That's just like Tom, always thinking of others."B'Elanna's smile fell. "I asked him to get back in his body. He won't doit."Harry was shocked, "Why not!?"B'Elanna's eyes lowered. She picked up her fork and moved the foodaround. She then answered his question, "Tom believes that he isn'twanted here. I tried to tell him he was wrong, but he wasn't convinced."Harry shook his head. He knew Tom didn't think too highly of himself, butto think that....."B'Elanna that doesn't sound like Tom. Are you sure, you're not justimagining things?."B'Elanna glared at him. He swallowed, but continued, "Come on, B'Elanna.You can't be serious. People leaving their bodies and visiting others hasnever been proved. It's only a myth to make people more comfortable withloved ones being in comas and the like."B'Elanna continued to glare at him, "I know what I saw, Harry. I heardwhat I did. Tom is trying to communicate with me.""All right, B'Elanna." Harry said, putting his hands up. He sighedinwardly, *Klingons. I never thought they would believe so strongly insuch stuff. * Out loud, he said, " If he is visiting you, let me come by.Let me talk to him. Maybe I can convince him."B'Elanna shook her head, "Tom can be as stubborn as a Klingon when hewants to be. Trying to push him to do something he doesn't want to dowould only make things worse.""Encouraging him couldn't hurt." Harry smiled. B'Elanna smiled and nodded. An idea came to her then. She stood up,picked up her tray and said, "I have to be going, Harry. I'll see youlater."Harry watched her leave, a smile on his face. He knew where she wasgoing. He hoped she could get through to Tom to return to his body.~~B'Elanna entered Sickbay. She saw that the EMH was in his office, so sheheaded for Tom's biobed. She looked at the pilot. He appeared to beasleep, but she knew better. She stroked his hair then moved her hand totouch his face. Her heart skipped a beat as she felt the smooth skin.B'Elanna closed her eyes and hoped Tom was watching. He needed to hearwhat she was going to say. "Tom, I want you to listen to me," B'Elanna commanded. "You need to getback into your body. You are needed, Tom. You're needed to fly thisship."*I need you,* she said to herself. She was surprised at that admission,but she pushed it aside and continued to talk to Tom. The commanding toneof her voice didn't waver, but she thought it sounded more fearful andurgent with each word. The Doctor watched B'Elanna from the door to his office. He heard hermention something about Tom returning to his body. He grew curious as towhat the engineer was talking about. Deciding to find out, he made hisway toward her."Ms. Torres, what are you doing?" The EMH ignored her surprised reactionand her glare. "What's it look like I'm doing?" B'Elanna snarled, "I'm talking to Tom.""I can see that, Lieutenant. What I don't understand is what you aretalking to him about. What is this about getting him back into his body?"B'Elanna relaxed and looked back at Tom. The pilot appeared so still thatshe placed her hand on his chest in order to feel his heart beat.Reassured, she turned her attention to the Doctor. "Tom has appeared to me. His voice was what I've been hearing. I told himthat he needed to return to his body, but he refused. I'm trying toconvince him."The Doctor gazed at Tom. There hadn't been any change in his condition,and he was becoming concerned that Tom might not wake up. He didn't thinkthat B'Elanna saw Tom appear to her, but if she believed that talking tothe pilot would help him recover then he was all for it. "All right, Ms. Torres," the EMH sighed. "If you think it will help Mr.Paris come out of his coma, then by all means continue."B'Elanna looked at the Doc and smiled. "Thanks, Doc."The Doctor nodded and gave a small smile, "Don't take too long,Lieutenant. Lt. Paris needs his rest."B'Elanna gave a small laugh and shook her head. She then looked back downat Tom. More determined than before, she continued to try to convince Tomto return to his body.Chapter SevenB'Elanna picked up the cup of tea from the replicator and went to sit onher couch. She needed to relax. Trying to convince Tom to return to hisbody was wearing her out, but she refused to give up. She wanted him backand the ship needed him back. *I don't know what to tell him anymore.* she thought as she sipped hertea, *I'm starting to sound like a broken record.*B'Elanna closed her eyes as she tried to think of other ways to convinceTom. Soon, she began to relax, and almost dropped her cup as she felt acold sensation touch her shoulder. She jumped and whipped around to see Tom behind her. His blue eyessparkled with mischief and he smiled softly. "Tom!" B'Elanna gasped. She still could not believe that he was appearingto her. She had to keep telling herself that he was in Sickbay in a coma."Surprised to see me, I see," Tom replied, going around the couch to sitbeside her. He looked at her, and saw that she was indeed shocked. At his concerned expression, B'Elanna relaxed and explained, "I'm still alittle surprised at this, Tom. Here you are in my quarters, yet your bodyis in Sickbay. You need to get back into your body."Tom glared at her. He wanted to see her. He wanted to put his mind atease that she was all right. He didn't need to be lectured. He stood up,and walked around the coffee table to stand in front of her. "I have told you, B'Elanna," Tom snapped, "I do not want to return to mybody! I'm not respected here! You haven't seen the looks some people giveme when I walk by. I know what people think of me.  I won't be missed."B'Elanna's eyes widened. She stood up, glaring at him. How could he saythat about himself! He was respected. He did have friends on this ship.She just didn't understand it. Then again,  maybe she did."Damn it, Paris!" B'Elanna shouted, her frustration and guilt finallytaking its toll on her. "You are needed here! You are respected here ifyou took the time to look." She began to pace, knowing she had to tell him what had been botheringher for days now. She turned back toward Tom and spoke, her voice strong,yet tinged with guilt,  "I'm the reason you're in the coma! If I hadn't argued with you, we would have paid attention to where we were going. Ihave been feeling guilty ever since. Seeing you lying on that bed andknowing I put you there..."Tom watched her, shocked. He didn't know she was feeling guilty for hiscondition. He went to her and hugged her. B'Elanna ignored the cold ofhis ethereal embrace she was receiving. Instead, it only warmed her. Shepulled him closer to her. "I'm sorry, Tom." she whispered to him, "I'm sorry."Tom hugged her tighter. He led her to the couch and sat down next to her.He wrapped his arms around her and comforted her. "It's all right, B'Elanna," the pilot whispered to her. "You don't needto feel guilty anymore. I'm not angry at you."B'Elanna felt a tear slide down her cheek. A wave of relief washed overher. She relaxed into his embrace as the guilt left her. It was replacedby a stronger emotion; one that surprised her. She was confused by it,but it was soothing. It filled her with a warmth that kept the coldnessof Tom's ghostly touch at bay. "Will you return to your body, Tom?" B'Elanna asked, soothingly. Tom hugged her tighter. He was shocked to think that she had caused hiscondition. As far as he was concerned it was just an accident. "You must really think I'm wanted if you're going through all this painand guilt."B'Elanna looked at him. She saw that he was touched by what she wastrying to do. She hoped he would answer her request. "I know you are," she said. Tom sighed. He closed his eyes as he answered her, "I'll think about it,B'Elanna. I'm not promising anything, but I'll think about it."She touched his cheek, and he opened his eyes. He stared into her darkdepths to see the warmth in them. "That's all I need to know, Tom. You are wanted here. More than youknow."Tom smiled. He saw the truth in her eyes, yet he still felt he neededproof. He drew her closer to him, and stroked her dark hair. He watchedher as she drifted off to sleep. He kissed her head as he slowlydisappeared.*I hope you're right, 'Lanna.* Tom though as he left the room. Chapter EightB'Elanna felt better the next morning. She was glad that Tom was going tothink about returning to his body. To her it was better than having himrefuse without listening. She was on her way to Engineering when she felt his presence. She turnedaround, but no one was there. She blinked in confusion then headed downthe corridor to Engineering.Lt. Carey greeted her as she entered. He smiled at her, almost gratefulfor her return. "Chief, you look much better today," Carey said, "Your engines are in topshape. There was a slight problem with the coils, but the problem wasfixed."B'Elanna nodded as he handed her the report. She took it and scanned it.Everything was in order. "Thank you, Carey," she said. "I had a nice day off. Thanks for takingcare of the little problem. I'll go read this to bring me up to date.""You're welcome, Chief. I'm glad you're feeling better."B'Elanna nodded and smiled. She then headed for her office. Once insideshe sat down in her chair and began to read. After awhile she began to feel Tom's presence again. She looked up, butno one was there. "Tom?" B'Elanna whispered, searching her office with her eyes. "B'Elanna." Tom's voice responded. She smiled, glad to know he was there.Her smile faded though as she felt something else from him. Emotions shehadn't sensed from him before. She felt a lot of anger from him, in herprevious encounters with Tom, but not this. "Tom?" B'Elanna's voice was questioning, confused. "I'm fine, 'Lanna. I'm still thinking. There's a lot to weigh concerningif I return or not. I want to make the right decision for everyone.""Tom, make the right decision for you. It's your life, not anyoneelse's."B'Elanna felt coolness near her cheek. She smiled and turned her facetoward the touch. She closed her eyes and imagined Tom's hand caressingher face. She wanted so much to hold him, his body against hers. Shestiffened when she suddenly realized that. She wanted him this much,because she loved him. "I'll see you later, 'Lanna," Tom's voice was soft. It sounded as if hewas distracted and confused. "I'll be watching you."B'Elanna smiled at that. Her eyes opened and the coolness disappeared.She didn't sense him, and she knew he was gone. She sighed. What werethose feelings he was sending out? He seemed so confused about it. Sheshrugged and returned to the padd. ~~That afternoon, B'Elanna stepped out of the turbolift onto Deck Five. Shefelt Tom with her, his emotions flowing off of him. She hoped seeing hisbody again would convince him to return to it. She entered Sickbay and saw the EMH scanning the pilot. "Afternoon, Doc," B'Elanna announced. "How's Tom?"The Doc looked up once then back at his tricorder. He sighed andanswered, "No change, Lieutenant. I am getting worried. If he doesn'twake up soon..."B'Elanna's heart clinched. She had to get Tom to change his mind. Now. "You said before that Mr. Paris has visited you. Does he still do so?"B'Elanna nodded, "He's here now. I want him to see his body."The EMH agreed and went into his office. He hoped this would convince Tomto enter his body. B'Elanna went to the biobed and sat down in the chair next to it. Shebrushed a lock of blonde hair off his forehead. "See, Tom. You're getting worse. If you don't enter your body now you'lldie."She felt the pilot near her. She could sense his emotions. He was unsureof what was happening. She could feel that he was afraid, but didn'tbelieve he should return to his body. "Tom, please. You need to return to your body.""B'Elanna, do you really think there is anyone on this ship that careswhether I live or die?"She glared at the spot she believed he was standing. Her eyes flashed,her pain and anger evident. "Listen you. I care if you live or die. I want you to live! Who careswhat the others think? If you're still concerned see for yourself. Visitthem like you have me, and see. You might be surprised."B'Elanna sensed Tom's shock. She smiled inwardly. She could always catchhim off guard, and she enjoyed it. Yet, she realized, he could alwayscatch her off guard as well."All right, 'Lanna. I will. I'll see for myself if they really care aboutme at all."B'Elanna nodded, "Good. That will be the proof you so desperately need.""I'll return to you with my decision."She smiled, "I look forward to it, Tom."She felt the coolness on her face again. She closed her eyes and sighed.She couldn't wait to feel his warm hand touch her face. When she openedher eyes, he was gone. B'Elanna turned back to Tom's body. She touched his face, feeling thewarmth she so desperately wanted to feel. *Please return to me, Tom,* B'Elanna thought. She then bent down andplaced a kiss on his forehead. The EMH stood at the entrance to his office. He saw the engineer talkingto thin air. He believed that she was communicating to the pilot. Hehoped she had gotten through to Tom, and he would return to his bodysoon. He had seen many people visit Tom. They were all worried and hadexpressed their fears to the EMH. The Doc was touched when he saw B'Elanna kiss Tom. He believed she had alarge stake in getting Tom to return to his body. Her kissing him justproved it to the EMH. *If only he knew how much he's missed,*  the Doctor thought as he wentback to work. Chapter NineTom Paris appeared in Harry's quarters.  He saw his best friend talkingto Kes. He saw their expressions of concern and sadness. He steppedcloser to them, knowing they couldn't see him. "I'm afraid, Kes. The Doc said he might not wake up."Kes held Harry's hand in a comforting manner, "Tom will wake up, Harry.You have to believe that."Harry shook his head, "It's been a week, Kes. I miss him. He's like thebrother I never had."Kes smiled, "I'm sure Tom knows that, Harry. He'll wake up soon."Harry nodded. He still wasn't sure. He had visited Tom in Sickbay twice.There was no change in his condition, and he was getting worried. Tom watched what was happening. He was touched by what his friend hadsaid. Harry did care about him like a brother. That was more than heexpected. He felt honored to have Harry as a friend. Kes looked over her shoulder, and was surprised to see Tom Paris standingbefore her. Tom stared at her for a few moments before he realized thatshe could see him. He smiled sadly. She smiled back and nodded as iftelling him she knew what he was doing  and agreed. Tom smiled thenslowly vanished. Chakotay was in his quarters having coffee with Janeway when Tomappeared. The pilot was very nervous about what he would learn from theCommander. He was in for a surprise. "I never thought I'd say this,  but I actually miss Tom," Chakotay said,sipping the coffee. Tom's mouth dropped open. He didn't expect those words to come from theCommander.  He was amazed. Janeway nodded, taking a sip of her drink. She set it down on the tablethen looked at Chakotay and smiled slightly. "I miss him as well, Chakotay. I must admit that I'm afraid he'll neverwake up. It's been a week."Tom closed his eyes as the words reached his ears. He knew that Janewaycared about him, but she actually feared for him. She was afraid he woulddie. "I've come to respect Tom," Chakotay admitted. "I'll miss his little jabsat Tuvok and I. He always knew how to keep the Bridge from gettingboring."Tom couldn't believe it. Chakotay respected him. On top of that, theCommander enjoyed the jokes. The pilot shook his head to clear thedizziness he felt. It was all too much for him. Janeway chuckled, "I think Tom enjoyed it. I hope he wakes up soon. TheBridge just wouldn't be the same."Tom closed his eyes again and took a deep breath. A single tear escapedand slid down his cheek. He was deeply touched by what his commandingofficers said. It meant a lot to him, but there was more he had to hear.He slowly vanished from Chakotay's quarters. Tom roamed the corridors of Voyager thinking about what he had seen andheard so far. He was both amazed and touched. It warmed him, and he feltbetter, but it wasn't enough. He needed to know how the rest of the crewfelt about him. The pilot came across two people waiting for the turbolift. They weretalking quietly, so he decided to see what about. When he got closer helearned they were talking about him. "He's come out of worse situations before. He'll do it again.""The Doctor says there's been no change," the lieutenant responded.The ensign shook her head, "It's almost like he doesn't want to wake up.As if he's afraid to. He's too valuable a crewmember. We need him."The lieutenant smiled, "Admit it, Kara, you have a crush on Tom Paris."The turbolift doors opened as Kara blushed. She didn't say anything asthe two entered the lift. Tom blushed as well. He had no idea of Ensign Daniels' interest in him.He was also touched that they thought of him as a valued member of thecrew. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He continued to roamVoyager looking for more proof. He was slowly being convinced that he wasboth needed and wanted on the ship. It never ceased to amaze him thatpeople liked and respected him. He soon found himself in the Mess Hall where he knew he could get allkinds of information on how others felt about him. He got more than hebargained for. "I'm glad he's in a coma," an older lieutenant told his friends. "He'stoo cocky, and he thinks he's God's gift to women.""You're just jealous, Charles," Crewmen Tellis said, shaking his head."Tom is the best pilot we have and you don't like it."Lt. Charles Davis growled, "Paris can stay in that coma for all I care.Maybe then Ensign Daniels will notice me."His friends shook their heads. Lt. Davis was jealous of Tom Paris.Everyone knew it, which only angered him further. Tom wandered around the Mess Hall, learning that more than half the crewwanted him back. The rest were either jealous or just couldn't leave thepast behind. He didn't let their opinions bother him. There were morepeople on the ship who cared about him. He smiled and went to report toB'Elanna. ~~B'Elanna was sitting on her couch, sipping her tea when Tom appeared inher quarters. She was happy to see him. She went to him and hugged him. "What did you learn, Tom?"Tom hugged her close to him, "I found out I'm respected by most of thecrew. They want me back."He then laughed a little which caused B'Elanna to stare at him. He onlylaughed harder. "Paris." B'Elanna warned. Tom smiled, "Ensign Daniels has a crush on me."As Tom predicted, B'Elanna glared at him. He smiled softly."So you're going after her?"Tom saw the flash of anger in her eyes and remembered their argument."No, B'Elanna. There's someone else I want.""Who?""You, B'Elanna." Tom whispered as he touched her face. "I love you."B'Elanna stared at him, shocked. She shook her head, but Tom persisted. "I'm not lying, B'Elanna. I do love you."Still not believing what she heard, she touched his face and looked intohis eyes. She saw the truth in their blue depths as well as his verysoul. She was surprised by what she saw. "I love you, too," B'Elanna whispered. "I'm sorry I...."Tom placed a cold  finger on her lips. He then replaced the finger withhis lips. He pulled back and looked into her eyes. She was surprised, butshe smiled shyly. He smiled back. "You don't need to apologize anymore, B'Elanna. I forgive you."The two embraced and kissed with more passion. Their tongues danced astheir hands explored the other's body. They unfastened each other'stunics and tasted the other's exposed skin. B'Elanna nibbled on Tom's strangely cold earlobes causing him to moan. Heslipped the uniform tunic off her and tossed it across the room. Hisfollowed soon after. She yelped when he picked her up and carried herinto her bedroom. He gently put her down on her bed and covered her mouthwith his. Their tongues danced around each other as he unfastened herbra. He then took a breast in his mouth, causing her to first gasp thenmoan. He slowly pushed her back onto the bed as he ran his tongue over onebreast then the other. She arched up toward him as she moaned. He kissedhis way down her body, her moaning and gasping arousing him more. Hereached her uniform pants and began to slowly unfasten them. He slippedthem over her hips and off of her. He dropped them to the floor andstarted to unfastened his own. B'Elanna stopped him. "Let me," she whispered as she rose up and went to him. He watched as sheunfastened his pants and slowly slipped them to his knees. He sat downand she pulled them off the rest of the way. His pants joined hers on thefloor. B'Elanna growled her arousal as she stared into his dark eyes. She thenpushed him down onto the bed and ran her hands over his chest. He sighedcausing her to smile. She replaced her hands with her lips and she kissedand licked her way down his body. She slowly pulled his briefs off himand she growled her approval of his arousal. "B'Elanna," Tom groaned, thrusting his hips up toward her. B'Elanna smiled and took her panties off. She tossed both their underwearonto the floor. She then moved her attention to his erection. He buckedinstinctively when she took him into her mouth. It felt cold to her, butit didn't seem to matter to either of them. He moaned and tilted his headback when she moved her mouth over him. He called her name as she broughthim to the edge, but didn't let him tumble over. Tom stared at her, breathless. He gazed into her eyes as she crawled herway up his body. Her smile was feral, as was his. They growled at eachother as they devoured the other's mouth. Tom ran his hands up her backand into her dark hair. He nibbled on her earlobes causing her to moan. B'Elanna slowly impaled herself on him. She ran her hands over his chestas she slowly rocked her hips forward. Tom placed his hands on her hipsas he thrust up into her. Soon, the two had found a rhythm and theyincreased their pace. Suddenly, Tom flipped B'Elanna onto her back while still in her. Shewrapped her legs around him as he thrust into her. She dug her nails intohim as his thrusts came faster. She moaned loudly, digging her nails deepinto his back. "TOM!" B'Elanna screamed as she fell over the edge. Tom thrust into her one last time before he released into her, callingout her name. Chapter TenB'Elanna slowly opened her eyes to find herself alone in her bed. She satup and looked around her room. There was no sign of Tom. *Where did he go?* She thought as she ran her hand through her hair. *Iknow he was here.*B'Elanna then felt his presence and she relaxed. She smiled and looked toher right. Tom was standing there smiling as well. Tom slipped back into bed and took her in his arms. He kissed herforehead and stroked her hair. "Missed me?" Tom asked impishly. B'Elanna laughed. She snuggled closer to him. She noticed that thecoldness she had felt from him before was gone. It was replaced by thewarmth she had longed to be next to. She stroked his face as she staredinto his eyes. "I wondered where you went." B'Elanna said.Tom smiled and kissed her hand, "I went to Sickbay. Harry was theretrying to coax me back.""Will you, Tom?"Tom kissed her, "Yes, B'Elanna. I wouldn't want to miss out on loving youfor real."B'Elanna hugged him closer. She felt relief wash over. She couldn't waitto feel his warmth for real. "Thanks, Tom. Thank you.""You're welcome, Lanna. And thank you."He kissed her one last time before he vanished from her quarters. ****"Sickbay to Lt. Torres."B'Elanna sat up in bed, startled out of her sleep. She looked over at hernightstand, and picked up her commbadge. "Torres here.""Can you come to Sickbay, please?""I'm on my way."B'Elanna jumped out of bed and quickly put on her uniform. She then ranout the door toward the nearest turbolift.She burst through the Sickbay doors to find the EMH and Kes working overTom. She caught her breath, worried that something had gone wrong. Sheslowly walked toward the biobed, but she was stopped by Janeway."B'Elanna.""Captain, what's wrong with Tom? The Doc called me here."Janeway smiled and patted her shoulder, "Tom woke up a few minutes ago.The Doctor is checking to see if there is any damage."B'Elanna relaxed and smiled, "Thank Kahless.""Yes," the EMH announced, going to them. "And my medical skills.""Thank you, Doc, "B'Elanna said. "Can I see him now?"The EMH nodded, "Don't stay too long. He needs his rest."The engineer nodded and went over to Tom's bed. She looked at him and sawhis blue eyes gazing back at her. He smiled and reached out to touch herface. She took his hand in hers and stroked his hair with the other. "I'm glad to have you back, Tom," B'Elanna whispered to him. "Great to be back," Tom answered, his love for her shining in his eyes. B'Elanna smiled and bent down to kiss him. She revelled in the feel ofhis warm lips. She was so grateful that he decided to return. She didn'tthink she could live without him. "You get better now. All right?" She said as she brushed his hair withher hand. Tom smiled and nodded, "Anything for you, Lanna."Smiling, B'Elanna shook her head. Tom was definitely back. Just the wayshe liked him. She gave him one final kiss before she left Sickbay. The pilot stared at the ceiling as he remembered what had happened tohim. He remembered B'Elanna expressing her guilt at causing hiscondition. *It must have been terrible for her to believe that,* he thought as hiseyes slowly closed. *I'm going to make it up to her.*A slight smile crossed his lips as he dreamed of just how he was going tomake it up to the half-Klingon. Chapter ElevenTom and B'Elanna were sitting on a hill overlooking a lake. It had beentwo days since Tom was released from Sickbay, and he wanted to showB'Elanna how much he appreciated all she had done for him. He had calledher before she went to work and asked her  to meet him in the holodeckafter her shift was over. She readily agreed, and now she was here withhim, watching the sun set. B'Elanna snuggled closer to him, breathing in his scent. She wassurprised by the beautiful program he presented to her. She was even moreamazed that it was a private program that he hadn't shown to anyone else.She felt honored to be the first person Tom showed his program to. "It's good to have you back, Tom," B'Elanna stated, running her left handover his chest. "I thought you weren't going to return to your body."Tom hugged her closer to him, "I wasn't going to, but I didn't want youto be alone. I don't think I could've gone on without you.""What was it like?" She asked, warmed by the thought that he didn't wantto leave her. He kissed her hair and smiled, "It was strange. I felt odd. I couldappear and vanish at will. I could walk through walls if I wanted to. IfI thought of a place, I was there. It was strange that only you and Kescould see me.""Kes saw you!?" B'Elanna asked, stunned.Tom smiled, "I think it had to do with her telepathic abilities, Lanna."B'Elanna blushed, "What made you think to appear to me?""I wanted to see if you were all right," he answered softly. "I wantedyou to know that I was still here."B'Elanna looked at him. After what she had said to him before theaccident, she was amazed that Tom wanted to see if she was all right. Sheclosed her eyes, trying to keep the tears at bay. "After all that I said to you," she whispered, her voice almost cracking.Tom stroked her cheek, "It's all right, B'Elanna. You don't need to feelguilty anymore. I'm here and I'm not going anywhere."B'Elanna smiled and touched his hand, holding it to her cheek. "I'm gladyou came to me, Tom. It helped me overcome my guilt. I could see and feelyou. I knew that you were still here, but I....""Wanted and needed me back in my body," Tom finished with a smile."You've reminded me enough times." He looked deep into her eyes andwhispered, "I'm glad I came to you as well. It showed me that you cared,even when we argue. I learned that I love you."B'Elanna took his hand and kissed his palm then she leaned forward andkissed him on the lips. The sun disappeared behind the horizon as Tom ran his hands throughB'Elanna's hair. He gently pushed her down onto the soft grass as hedeepened the kiss. Their tongues danced as B'Elanna slowly unbuttoned hisshirt. She slipped it off his shoulders and down his arms. He tossed itaside then he began to unfasten her uniform top. The stars shown in the sky like diamonds as the two undressed each other.They kissed exposed skin as their clothes were removed. They moaned andgasped as they explored each other's bodies. B'Elanna ran her hands through Tom's hair as he licked and bit herbreasts. She moaned his name as she arched her back. She growled andbrought him up to devour his mouth. Their tongues danced as their handsroamed downward. B'Elanna ripped his briefs off, bringing a startled cryfrom him. "Thanks," Tom said, sarcastically. He then ripped her underwear off andtossed them aside; and went back to devouring her mouth. He slowly lickedand kissed his way down her body. She moaned as he continued to assaulther body. Suddenly, Tom found himself on his back, looking up at his beloved. Shesmiled wickedly at him then growled. She grabbed his hands and placedthem above his head. He stared at her then yelped when she bit him. Shegrowled at him and he growled back, causing shivers to run up her spine.She then took his mouth with hers as her hands moved down his body. B'Elanna then lowered herself on him. She was surprised that it feltdifferent. It was warmer, definitely warmer. She smiled at him as she ranher hands over his chest. She growled and he thrust up into her. Shemoaned and closed her eyes. The two fell into a rhythm as their moansfilled the air. Tom ran his hands up her thighs and grabbed her hips. He thrust up hardinto her which caused her to growl with pleasure. She rocked her hipsforward as she felt herself nearing the edge. He felt her grip on himtighten and he increased his pace. He felt her nails digging into hischest, but it only made him thrust harder. B'Elanna rocked her hips forward. She opened her eyes to see that Tom hadhis closed. She smiled. She was glad that he was enjoying himself.Suddenly, she cried out his name, scratching him in the process. Tom thrust one last time before he released into her. The last thing shethought was that that was different as well. Later, B'Elanna woke up to find herself in Tom's arms. He was stilldozing as she looked at him. He appeared so much better now. He was aliveand that made her happy. She stroked his hair causing him to open hiseyes. "Hello," she whispered, giving him a kiss. Tom mumbled his greeting which made B'Elanna laugh. He looked at her andshe tried to stop laughing, but couldn't. "Oh, shut up," Tom grumbled as he sat up. He glared at her and shestifled her laughter."Is this how you normally are in the mornings, Tom?" she asked, smiling. He stared at her, "I'm not a morning person."B'Elanna laughed, "Good thing it's not morning then. I must have worn youout if you're acting like this."Tom rolled his eyes then without warning, he tackled her. She yelped oncebefore he took her mouth. He looked at her a moment, her laughtercompletely gone. "You were saying?" "Ok. So you're not worn out, yet." B'Elanna added with a smile. "Try me," Tom's eyes sparkled with the idea of a challenge. B'Elanna growled and the games began again. Later, they were both tired as they lay on the ground, staring up at thestars. B'Elanna rested her head on his shoulder as her hand stroked hischest. "They're beautiful," B'Elanna whispered to a dozing Tom."Not as beautiful as you," he mumbled as he kissed her hair. She smiledthen a thought came to her. "Tom, you appeared to me when you were in  that coma," she began. Whenshe heard him answer, she continued, "What if you had died before youentered you body? Would you have continued to appear to me as a ghost?"Tom was wide-awake when he heard the question. He sat up and wrapped hisarms around her. "I don't know, B'Elanna. I probably would have. I loveyou too much to really leave you like that. I told you I didn't want youto be alone."B'Elanna smiled softly and hugged him, "I don't want to lose you, butknowing that puts me at ease."Tom kissed her forehead, "I promise, B'Elanna, I'll stay with you. Evenafter death.""Then you'll really be my ghost lover, huh?"The two laughed knowing that their love for each other would last evenafter death.END