Rating: NC-17 - for sexual context between consenting adult women.
            UBER J/7

Thanks to my good friends Glynis and Snowolf for helping me out betareading, and to Jay for helping me plot. I always appreciate your efforts and encouragement.

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Back to "The Seven Women on Raven's Island" - part 7

The Seven Women of Raven’s Island

© GB

Seven had pushed the button to raise the roof of the car. The air had cooled, making it too uncomfortable to ride without it.

After lowering the backrest of the passenger seat a bit, Janeway was content to let Seven do the driving. She was still in a dreamy state of mind, having spent the rest of the long afternoon in Seven’s arms, sharing their picnic. The way Seven had made love to her still amazed her, resounded through her veins. The CEO could not recall having ever experienced such a pleasure or feeling so loved.

“I love you,” Janeway said out loud, turning her head to glance at Seven.

The blonde smiled while keeping her eyes on the road. “I love you, too, Kathryn.”

Returning the smile, even if Seven could not see it, Janeway settled in the passenger seat.

The thought of the impending trial commencing after the weekend left her feeling both eager to get it over with and nervous what reliving the ordeal again would bring. A thought struck her and she reached for her cell phone. Pressing the speed dial she waited while it rang at the other end.

“Hello,” Gretchen Janeway answered.

“Hi, mom, how are you?”

“Kathryn, I was just about to try your cell phone, since I was unsuccessful with the office and the penthouse.”

“Oh, yes? Well, it just occurred to me that you would have to be here for the trial. It starts on Monday.”

“Yes, I know about it already, I received a call from a nice young man working at the district attorney’s office. When do you want me to come?”

As always impressed by her mother’s good natured approach as well as the older woman’s calm way of dealing with things, Janeway thought of something.

“Why don’t you try to get on a plane this evening, mom? We can arrange to have someone pick you up at the airport and then we can spend the weekend together.”

“I would be happy to pick your mother up,” Seven interrupted.

“It sounds perfect,” Gretchen replied. “I’ll let you know if I can get a last minute ticket. If I’m not mistaken, there is a flight that connects in Pittsburgh that departs sometime after 8PM.”

“Then you should be here just before midnight?”

“I think so. Let me get on the computer and see if there are any seats available. I’ll call you back.”

They said goodbye and hung up. Janeway held the cell phone with both hands on her lap. The thought of her mother joining them later in the evening was soothing in an unexpected way.

The CEO gently cleared her throat and reached for Seven’s idle hand that was resting on the stick shift as was the blonde’s habit.

“Thank you, darling, for a wonderful day,” Janeway husked. “I can’t tell you how much it means to me and how … well, I guess I’m in awe about how you made me feel. How you made love to me …” She held Seven’s hand tight in her own.

“I want to make you happy, Kathryn.” Seven’s voice was quiet but the words came without hesitation. “I want us both to be happy.”

“Are you happy, sweetheart?”

“Yes. I feel better, and stronger, than I have in a long time.”

“You said something yesterday that I’ve been thinking of; that you took something back when you captured Cynthia. I think you took your right of self-determination; your independence, if you like. I can’t imagine how it must have felt to be deprived of your freedom.”

Seven nodded.

“It is not a feeling I ever want you to experience. I think what I hated the most about it was the fear and the overwhelming sense of helplessness.”

“You didn’t stay helpless for long, darling. Your ingenuity led to your rescue and Avery’s apprehension.”

“I suppose so.”

“If you hadn’t written the 7 on the window, using the hand cream, we would never have figured it out.”

“There were many coincidences that led up to the resolution, Kathryn. The fact that a lot happened by chance has been hard to deal with. Even seeing Cynthia at the mall was pure happenstance.”

Janeway stroked the elegant hand she was holding.

“The way you reacted when you saw her wasn’t happenstance. You seized the moment and acted accordingly. You surprised the hell out of me, that’s true, but I’m so proud of you, of how courageous you were.”

Seven smiled, her eyes still on the road.

“Thank you. It means so much coming from you.”

Janeway raised Seven’s hand to her lips and kissed every knuckle, every fingertip before placing it on the wheel.

“We’re coming into town; better not distract you before we’re home.”

The sun was setting ahead of them, casting a pink-orange glow across the darkening sky. The red sports car easily overtook the larger vehicles in the inner lane when Seven drove towards the city. Janeway smiled inwardly; soon they would be home.

*****

“Who can that be at this hour?”

Julia Williams raised questioning eyebrows at her partner when she got up from the couch to answer the door. The fact that the doorman had not called up to announce that they had a visitor indicated that it was someone from their list of close friends. Still, Julia found it odd that nobody had called first.

She peeked through the door viewer and the unexpected slowed down her reaction. Swallowing hard, she unlocked the dead bolt and opened the door.

“Daddy,” she husked. “I had no idea …”

Jonathon Williams looked as nervous as she felt, stroking his neatly kept moustache.

“Hello, Julia,” he greeted his oldest daughter. “I know this is a surprise, but Marion thought you’d be happy to see me.” Jonathon looked like he was afraid she might contradict him.

“Of course I am! But what are you doing here … oh, forgive me. Please, come in!”

“Thank you.” The tall man stepped inside, dwarfing everything in the hallway by his presence. “I’m here to visit you and Marion.”

Julia had reached for a clothes hanger and froze in mid action, turning to look at her father, her eyes wide.

“To visit us? That’s your sole purpose for travelling all the way from Michigan?” Julia remembered what her father had just said. ”Are you saying that Marion knew you were coming?”

“Yes. And yes.” Jonathon gave a crooked smile.

Julia opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. She snapped it close when she heard her partner approach from behind.

“Welcome, Jonathon, it’s nice to finally meet you.” Marion’s voice was polite, bordering on warm. “I assume everything worked out with the limousine and the doorman. I told him to expect you.”

“Marion, the pleasure is entirely mine,” Julia’s father replied, shaking the older woman’s hand. “Thank you for having me.”

‘Having me?’ Julia could just stare. Had Marion offered her father to stay with them in the apartment?

“We have a very nice guestroom, even if it is a little on the small side,” her partner said with a smile, shocking Julia by sounding so easy-going. “I thought it would be a waste of time to travel back and forth to a hotel.”

Wanting to ask her father what her mother thought of this surprise visit, Julia decided not to, not wanting to break the mood, so she just took her father’s coat and put it on the hanger. When she turned to usher him into their living room, she suddenly found herself wrapped up in a bear hug, something that had not happened for years.

“I’ve missed you,” Jonathon whispered, his voice unsteady.

Not sure how to respond, Julia stiffened. As she felt his arms relax, she realised that he was about to let go of her. Julia flung her arms around his neck, hugging him hard, like she used to do when she was little.

“I’ve missed you too, Daddy,” she murmured. “I can’t tell you how much.”

When Jonathon finally let go of his daughter, her eyes, blurred from unshed tears, found Marion who stood smiling like the Cheshire cat, leaning against the doorframe. However, it did not escape Julia recognised the carefully masked cautiousness in her partner’s eyes.

Julia could guess what was going on inside Marion; she was a victim of ambivalent feelings herself. She wanted to believe that her father was coming around, and him coming for a visit suggested that he was, but she had felt rejected for so many years now.

Still it felt wonderful to be on the receiving end of her father’s embrace. Whatever the reason was for him to change his approach, Julia found it encouraging that he was here. She had a lot of questions, but for now, for this evening, they could wait.

*****

Adriana entered Giovanni’s, her eyes scanning the room, trying to find her dinner date among the large Friday evening crowd.

“Adriana, bellissima,” a familiar baritone exclaimed by her side. “Your lovely dinner companion is waiting over there by the corner table.”

“Thanks, Giovanni,” Adriana replied and gave the proprietor of the Italian restaurant a smile. “Looks like the place is packed tonight.”

“Like every weekend, my dear,” Giovanni shrugged but the ADA could see that the man was pleased. “What can I offer you to drink?”

“I think I’ll have a glass of my favourite red wine, please.”

“Coming right up, consulente.”

Adriana moved among the tables, her eyes on the auburn haired woman sitting alone at the table in the far corner. As if the artist had felt her gaze, she looked up toward the entrance and then smiled broadly as she spotted Adriana.

“Sorry I’m late,” the ADA said as she sat down, at a ninety degree angle to Phoebe, on the chair the waiter pulled out for her. “Thank you.”

“Not a problem,” Phoebe beamed. “I’m glad we found a way to get together in a nice and safe environment.”

Adriana gave a short laugh. “So you think we’re safe here?”

“As safe as we can get.”

“What are you having?” the ADA asked, motioning towards the menu Phoebe had been browsing. She regarded the other woman fondly as the artist threw herself into an elaborate description as to what was on the menu. Phoebe wore her hair up, the thick braid folded and nestled tight onto the back of her head. The strict hairdo drew attention to the woman’s classic, elegant features. Phoebe’s face had a softer, more impish impression than her sister’s. Where the CEO of Stellar Corporation possessed a commanding presence that was clearly reflected in her eyes and posture, the younger Janeway sister seemed more easy, more energetic in an intense sort of way.

“You are studying me,” Phoebe suddenly said. “What are you thinking, Adriana?”

The ADA blushed faintly. “Oh, just how beautiful you are.”

Phoebe’s smiled turned decisively tender and she put a reassuring hand over the dark haired woman’s. “I think it’s you who is beautiful. You look absolutely breathtaking tonight.”

Adriana knew that the cobalt blue suite with the skirt ending just above the knee was becoming, but Phoebe’s unabashed admiration still sent tingles down her spine.

“Thank you.”

The waiter returned with Adriana’s wine. Since Phoebe had already decided on what she was going to order, Adriana decided to go along with that and order the same.

“We will start with the carpaccio, since you do that so well,” Phoebe complimented and kept going. “Then we’ll have angel hair pasta with shrimp, mushrooms and peppers. We’ll decide on dessert later, I think.”

“Very good, ma’am. Thank you.”

The waiter walked off with the menus, leaving the two women looking at each other across their respective beverages.

Phoebe raised her glass. “Here’s to ... looking at you.”

Adriana melted. Something inside her, a long ago tied knot loosened up and disappeared at the sight of the artist smiling at her. “To us.”

Phoebe took a sip of her white wine and then cocked her head.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you with your hair like that,” she mused. “I didn’t realise it was so long.”

Adriana wore her hair down, only held back with two large combs.

“I need to cut it, I guess,” she shrugged.

“No, I don’t mean that. It’s like a black satin sheet, flowing down your back.”

Nobody had ever described Adriana’s jet-black hair that way.

“Do you ever wear your hair down?”

“Not often, it’s too unruly and the only reason I keep it this long is that if I cut it, it becomes even curlier.”

Adriana had nourished secret dreams of wrapping the other woman’s long, curly hair around herself and then ...

Chastising herself, the ADA fiddled with the wineglass, suddenly at a loss for words.

The table was elegantly fitted with a long, white table cloth and three light blue candles. A small flower arrangement sat in the middle and the discreet scent made Adriana think of a rose garden.

The dark haired woman felt a small movement of the table cloth against her knee and was about to glance down when she felt a small, determined hand on her nylon stocking clad knee. Hastily swallowing her sip of red wine, she looked at Phoebe with widening eyes.

“Phoebe?”

“Shhh ...”

The hand, soft and barely touching her, moved in little circles around her knee. Adriana shivered and wet her dry lips. To her amazement she saw Phoebe nudge her napkin off the table and onto the floor.

“Oops,” the artist said and leaned down, picking up the napkin. On her way up, she let her fingers trail the back of Adriana’s leg, from her heel to the crease of the back of her knee. Sitting up again, Phoebe leaned forward on her elbow on the table, her fingertips still caressing the other woman’s knee.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Adriana tried to sound stern, but failed miserably. She was tingling all over and could not take her eyes off Phoebe. The other woman was sitting so close to her, the ADA could see the change of her eye colour in the candle light. Turning from blue-grey, they were now only bright blue.

“What do I do to you?” Phoebe whispered.

“You know very well ... You make me want to take you home and ...” Adriana’s voice was hardly audible.

“And do what?”

“Oh, I would take you home with me, hold you close and never let you go.”

Phoebe leaned closer, gently massaging the inside of Adriana’s knee. The ADA hoped that it would only seem to the other patrons as if they were having an intense discussion.

“What would you do to me, if I came home with you?”

Adriana gave a moan that was almost impossible to hear. “What I would do? I would undress you, kiss you all over ... touch you ...”

Phoebe’s lips parted as if they were indeed kissing. The dark haired woman stared at the wine red mouth, dying to kiss it, to part the lips that were so quick to tease, to challenge ... The thought of Phoebe’s lips travelling down her body made her lose her breath.

“God,” she murmured and reached down, putting her hand over Phoebe’s. “If we don’t stop this, I’ll be forced to skip dinner and take action.”

Excruciatingly slow, Phoebe allowed her fingernails to graze against the nylon stocking as she moved her hand away, the soft sound and the tantalising touch setting Adriana’s nerve endings on edge. She missed the warmth of the other woman’s hand, but was relieved that she would have a chance to calm down before the waiter brought them their starters.

As if the young man had read her mind, he showed up at her elbow, presenting them with their carpaccio. Phoebe winked at her, making Adriana smile and then laugh, shaking her head at the both of them.

During their first course, Adriana informed Phoebe of some of the things she needed to know about the trial. Phoebe was of course one of the witnesses for the state and when Adriana told the artist that her mother would need to fly in from Indiana, the artist grinned broadly.

“Yes, mom told me that your staff had phoned her earlier today. She’ll fly in tonight and Seven is picking her up. I think Kathryn must have things to do, people to see, or something; I don’t know.”

Adriana considered this.

“You know, I think your sister has had more than her fair share to deal with this week. To find out that Reymers-Avery not only harassed members of her staff to undermine her company, and also had an accomplice that was in for the money ... I understand that she also had to go through a board meeting where she could have lost everything.”

Phoebe paled.

“I didn’t know. I mean, I know about the meeting and that it has been hard on her, but when you put it like that, I didn’t realise ... “ The artist swallowed hard. “She’s always so strong, so in command, you know? She’s my big sister who has the annoying habit of always being right. She can drive me crazy ... but I know she loves Seven and ... she has changed. I guess that change also means that she’s more vulnerable.”

“You’re like her in so many ways.”

Phoebe’s eyes became round with surprise.

“I am? You’re wrong, Adriana, I’m nothing like my sister – even if I wish I was, sometimes.”

“You may not see it, but you are. You display the same kind of self-confidence, the same aura of authority, just in a different way.”

Phoebe looked like she was going to object again, but then her eyes softened.

“Maybe it is only evident to you,” she offered. “Nobody has ever told me this before. It could be that it’s your ability to look beyond the surface – I mean, being a ADA and all.”

“Could be, but it’s obvious to me.”

“I believe you.” Phoebe gave a crooked smile, not unlike the one her older sister bestowed upon people she genuinely liked.

“I’m glad your mother is able to come at such short notice. The trial date was moved up since another high profile case was delayed.”

Phoebe speared a thin slice of meat. “He is going to be put away, isn’t he?” she asked in a low voice.

Adriana sensed that there was more behind the other woman’s question, but did not prod for any further explanation. “Yes, Phoebe, he is.”

“Thank you.”

They ate in silence for a while and the waiter soon replaced their plates with the main course. Adriana found that her appetite had not diminished; the food was delicious. She glanced up at Phoebe and saw that she devoured her meal in a similar manner.

“I see you hate it,” the ADA teased, wanting to reach the more easygoing mood they had shared just earlier.

Phoebe giggled around her angel hair pasta and nodded. “Absolutely terrible, this.”

Adriana cocked her head. “You, on the other hand, are absolutely wonderful.” The comment passed her lips before she realised what she meant to say.

“I am?” It seemed as if Phoebe was genuinely asking her.

“Yes, darling, you are.”

The soft term of endearment was not planned either, but it felt the right thing to say. The light it ignited in Phoebe’s eyes was all the evidence the ADA needed.

*****

Janeway looked down on the bed she shared with Seven as she tied the belt to her robe loosely around her waist. Blowing the sleeping form a kiss, she quietly exited the bedroom, closing the door behind her.

For the first time in a while the CEO had slept soundly through the night. Taking a bath after the relaxing day with Seven, and also having a glass of her favourite red wine, she had barely stayed awake to make sure Gretchen and Seven noticed the cold food she had prepared for them when they came home from the airport.

Her mother had embraced her oldest daughter and then ordered her into bed since ‘she could hardly stand up’.

Now Janeway made her way towards the coffee machine in the kitchen. She was not surprised when her mother was already there, making coffee and toast.

“Good morning, mom,” the CEO greeted. “I can hardly remember welcoming you last night.”

“Oh, don’t worry about it. I was exhausted and not in a mood for a lengthy conversation myself. Seven and Phoebe kept me company over the cheese and crackers you had prepared for us.”

“Phoebe? I don’t remember her coming home either.”

“She came home while you were asleep. I think she was in the shower when you woke up to greet me.”

Gretchen Janeway walked up to Janeway and gave her a hug, only to pull back a bit and held her at an arm’s length.

“I like what I’m seeing,” the elegant woman offered. “You look less stressed and have better colour than I ever would have thought. I think we both know who to thank for that.”

“I guess you’re referring to a certain blonde who uses such calming methods as chasing hardened criminals through exclusive shopping malls,” Janeway deadpanned.

“Yes, Seven told me more details about this infamous chase. We didn’t want to tell you last night, but she was recognised at the airport.”

Janeway felt herself go pale and almost dropped the mug she was pulling down from a shelf.

“What?” She poured herself some coffee before the machine had finished the brewing process. Sitting down at the kitchen table she watched her mother mimic her actions.

“Now, don’t get upset. Nothing bad happened. In fact I think she is becoming a hero of sorts.”

“What are you talking about? What makes you say that?”

“The fact that three people came up individually and asked for her autograph.”

“Oh, God,” Janeway groaned and then had to laugh. “Did she deliver?”

“Of course, she did, but you know Seven; she questioned their motives for wanting one and when they explained that they were impressed with what she had done, she gave them that little smile of hers and signed her name. One young man didn’t have a paper and now he’s the proud owner of Seven’s autograph on his left arm.”

“I can’t believe this,” the auburn haired woman sighed, partly in horror. “Seven is becoming quite the celebrity.”

“She has been quite famous for a while,” Gretchen remarked. “Simply by being engaged to one of this nation’s most famous business tycoons … and in a same gender relationship to boot, has turned her into a public figure. Then when she goes all Nancy Drew on CNN – what can I say? That’s how a star is born.”

“Mother!” Janeway hissed around her coffee. “You have to be joking!”

“I am, to some extent.” Gretchen smiled angelically.

The two women sat in silence for a moment. Janeway knew her mother was only half joking. Looking at the older woman, her heart suddenly swelled with pride to have a woman of such elegance and with such a mischievous sense of humour, for a mother. An idea began to take form.

“I wonder if it’s too early to call Marion and Julia. I seem to remember that Marion, at least, is a morning person.”

“It’s just after nine.”

Janeway rose and walked to her study. Picking up the up the phone she pressed the speed dial and listened to it ring at the other end. After only two signals going through, someone picked up at the other end.

“McDunn.”

“Marion, it’s Kathryn.”

“Is something wrong?” came the quick reply, worry tingeing the other woman’s voice.

“No, no, everything is fine. Listen, mom just flew into town yesterday, for the trial. Would you and Julia like to join us for dinner tonight?”

There was a brief silence.

“You know, we really would love to, but Julia’s father, Jonathon, is here visiting.”

“He is? Was this a surprise visit? Seven hasn’t said anything.”

“Yes, it was a surprise for Julia, but I knew. Jonathon called me earlier in the week and I sensed that this could be a major chance for some understanding and healing for Julia and her father, so I invited him to come and stay with us for the weekend.”

“You are welcome to bring him, Marion. He’d be more than welcome, if he’s come to mend some fences with Julia.”

“Now that you mention it … since you’re mother is here, wouldn’t it be great if Jonathon could watch someone of his generation interact in an open-minded and unprejudiced manner?”

Janeway smiled broadly at the thought of her mother dazzling Julia’s father. She had no misgivings on how such an encounter would turn out.

“I think it sounds perfect,” Janeway offered. “How about if you come around seven tonight, then we can eat half an hour later?”

“Terrific. I know Julia will think so too. I think she’s a bit rattled having her father here. She’s gone through so much with her mother; I guess it’s hard for her to let her guard down. It was just the other day that Julia had to hang up on her mother when she called her about the adventure she had with Seven.”

Janeway sat down on the edge of her large desk.

“Oh, that’s right! That must have hurt a woman who prides herself on being the number one social climber in Michigan.”

There was a sound as if someone was choking.

“Kathryn!” Marion started laughing. “Oh, good morning, Jonathon, I didn’t see you there. Did you sleep well?”

Janeway bit back yet another acerbic comment.

“I’ll let you go for now, Marion. Unless I hear anything else, we’ll expect you at around seven.”

Janeway hung up the phone and rejoined her mother in the kitchen.

“Guess what?” the CEO beamed. “We’re having three guests for dinner, so that will make all in all seven of us … no, maybe eight, if we can persuade Phoebe’s friend Adriana to come. She’s also the ADA trying the case.”

“Phoebe’s friend?” Gretchen blinked.

“She’ll have to tell you, mom.”

Gretchen seemed to take that in stride. Then the older Janeway frowned.

“Eight for dinner? Who’s cooking?”

Janeway walked up to her mother and put an arm around her. Trying her version of an angelic smile, she winked at Gretchen.

“You?”

*****

Seven pushed the door opener next to the elevator, letting three of their guests in. Candles burned in the candelabra’s on the grand piano over by the panoramic window overlooking the city. Kathryn had a fire going in the fireplace, making the living room an appealing sight when you exited the elevator.

The door hissed open and Seven greeted Marion and Julia, kissing them both on the cheek. A tall man waited in the background to be introduced.

“Daddy, this is Annika Hansen,” Julia offered. “Seven, this is my father, Jonathon Williams.”

“Nice to meet you,” Seven replied and offered her hand. The tall, distinguished man was very handsome and the blonde could easily see the resemblance between him and his daughter.

“The pleasure is most certainly mine,” Jonathon Williams insisted. “Thank you for including me in your dinner invitation.”

“It is good to finally meet someone from Julia’s family.” Seven’s voice was calm. “Kathryn and I think very highly of both her and Marion and consider them our closest friends.”

As if that was her cue, Kathryn appeared at Seven’s elbow, extending her hand towards Jonathon, introducing herself.

“Hello, Mr Williams, I’m Kathryn Janeway.”

Julia’s father looked quite impressed at the sight of the CEO of Stellar Corporation. He took her hand and shook it.

“Ms Janeway, please call me Jonathon. I know of your work, of course. As I told Ms Hansen, I’m honoured to be here.”

“Call me Kathryn, please. We’re all family and friends here tonight.”

Seven felt compelled to also let the man into their circle. “You may call me Seven,” she offered.

Doing a subtle double-take, Jonathon repeated, “Seven?”

“That’s her nickname that her father gave her, daddy,” Julia explained. “We all call her Seven.”

“Then I’m very flattered that you allow me to follow suit, Seven.”

Kathryn led them all into the living room where the rest of the dinner guests were sitting on the couch and in the armchairs. She introduced her mother, who just entered from the kitchen, first, and then Phoebe and Adriana.

Seven had studied Phoebe’s facial expression when Kathryn had suggested that her sister call the ADA so their mother could meet her. A strange series of emotions, starting and ending with a broad smile, had travelled across the artist’s features. Adriana had first declined but Seven had overheard Phoebe using a very soft voice saying, “You have to eat, don’t you? Please, come.”

Adriana had arrived half an hour early and withdrawn to the study with Seven, talking over some of her testimony with her. She had also informed the blonde that when it was time to take the stand, Kathryn would go first. When the younger woman had asked why, Adriana had put a reassuring hand over Seven’s.

“I want her to be able to sit behind me, when it’s your turn. I don’t want to lie to you, Seven. It will be harder on you than on anyone else giving testimony, but I also know that you’ll do fine. With Kathryn there to support you, you will not feel alone.”

Kathryn had given her a questioning look when they emerged from the study. Seven had offered a smile, to reassure her fiancée, but the other woman had still walked up to her, wrapping an arm around Seven’s waist, as if by touching her partner the CEO would know for certain that she was all right.

Gretchen quickly made sure everyone had something to drink and then turned to Jonathon Williams with a charming smile, suggesting that he would call her Gretchen. Looking quite dazed at being the only man present, the distinguished looking man raised his glass of white wine and agreed readily.

Seven walked into the kitchen to check on the food. She had gone grocery shopping with Gretchen earlier in the day when Kathryn had taken the opportunity to do some work in her office downstairs. Seven and Gretchen had enjoyed browsing through the multitude of stalls at the indoor market a few blocks down the street. The blonde had then spent the afternoon preparing the meal together with the older woman.

“Can I help you with anything?”

Julia looked a little pale as she entered the kitchen.

“No, it is going to be a little while before it is ready and the dinner table is already set, but thank you.”

“I saw the table, it looks wonderful. Did you do that?”

“Yes, together with Gretchen; she is the artistic one.” Seven studied her friend’s expression, noticing small lines around her eyes, indicating stress. “Are you all right, Julia? You look tense.”

The other woman blushed.

“That obvious, huh?”

“No, not really, but I do know you quite well. Are you not happy that your father is here?”

“On the contrary, I can’t tell you how delighted I am that he has made this effort to mend fences with me. He’s really trying.”

Seven nodded. “He seems a very nice man, but I would guess that it can be difficult for you to trust his intentions after all this time.”

“I think his intentions are honest. What I fear is … that eventually he’ll give in to my mother. She doesn’t share his change of heart.”

“This evening can perhaps set your mind at ease.”

Julia’s forehead furrowed.

“What do you mean?”

“Gretchen will show him a different example than you mother does. Can you imagine anyone not being charmed by her?”

The interior designer shook her head and then a wide smile lit up her face. “You’re right, Seven. Thank you.” She gave the tall blonde a quick hug.

“Is this a private hug party or can anyone join in?”

Phoebe walked into the kitchen, her eyebrows raised and a crooked smile.

“You are most welcome to make this a group hug,” Seven offered.

“I’ll take a rain check, too much mush for me,” Phoebe laughed. “I only came out to get some mineral water for Adriana.” She waved the DA’s emptied glass in front of her.

Seven turned to open the refrigerator. “Here,” she said and handed over a bottle.

They all walked back into the living room, taking their seats in front of the fireplace.

Just as she sat down on one of the large leather footstools, she heard Gretchen say:

“You must be so proud of your daughter, Jonathon, although I understand that you must miss her since love brought her to this city.”

*****

Janeway had to fight to hide a smile as she later ushered her and Seven’s guests to the dining table. Jonathon Williams had found himself the subject of Gretchen’s considerable charm and graciousness, and the CEO was not entirely sure that her mother had not already pegged Julia’s father as being … apprehensive about his daughter’s way of life.

Janeway had to admire how quickly the man had found his equilibrium. He had hardly missed a beat before assuring her mother that he was indeed proud of his daughter’s achievements and that he was here because he did miss her.

Now they were getting ready to enjoy the dinner and Phoebe took her seat on Seven’s right.

“So, Kathryn, mom says you contributed greatly to this meal.”

Janeway raised her eyebrows towards her mother, sitting on her left. “You did? I mean, I did? When did I do that?”

“By promising to stay out of the kitchen, dear.” Her mother winked at Seven who sat, looking absolutely wonderful to her fiancée, dressed in a plum coloured sleeveless linen dress.

Marion and Phoebe started laughing, exchanging knowing glances. Adriana and Julia settled for amused smiles and Jonathon was the only one looking remotely sympathetic at what Janeway regarded as exaggerated.

“Thanks, mom,” she mumbled, rolling her eyes at her mother which did not phase the other woman in the least.

The first course consisted of smoked salmon wrapped around green tipped asparagus served with vinaigrette. The two chefs received unanimous praise as the dinner guests enjoyed the light course. Janeway noticed Seven’s cheeks turning a soft pink as the blonde revelled in the appreciative comments.

“Kathryn, I hear that you snuck down and did some work today,” Phoebe said, spearing an asparagus. “Was that the reason you left the cooking to the ones best suited?”

“In a manner of speaking,” the CEO conceded. “I had to catch up on my emails. Speaking of that, I got caught in something else when I was on the executive floor. Care to explain the boxes outside the formerly vacant office, Marion?” Janeway raised a teasing eyebrow.

Marion had the good taste to smile sheepishly.

“Ah, well, I decided that yesterday was a good day as any to move offices. You have been on my case for quite a while to move from the sales department to the executive floor. I only have to decide on where to hang my art and then … voilá!”

“You didn’t tell me this!” Julia exclaimed. “Oh, sweetheart, I’m so glad you decided to do it.”

Janeway knew the reason Julia became misty eyed over the move but she could see that it was confusing to her father. Jonathon seemed torn between looking at his daughter’s partner in a new light and being concerned for the tears glittering in Julia’s eyes.

“Well, honey, I felt the time was right. It was only because of Jonathon’s visit being much more important that I forgot all about it.”

“Congratulations on your new office, Marion,” the man raised his glass to the sales manager. “I’m impressed.”

“Thank you.”

They all toasted the significant step Marion had taken, but Janeway knew that the personal aspect of the move was greater than what it could mean for Marion professionally. Not long ago, the woman had thought she deserved no further professional opportunities or personal happiness. Now she was becoming her old, feisty self, minus some of the sarcastic nature. Janeway looked forward to working with her employee and spending time with her friend, more than ever.

“Do you remember how you felt once you made your debut on the executive floor?” Gretchen asked her daughter.

“I certainly do. I was in my early thirties, and I had begun to rise in the ranks at Stellar. It went fairly quickly from then on. I replaced Mike Leigh as CEO after he retired. I was thirty-eight then.”

“I’ve followed your career, like so many in my line of work, Kathryn,” Jonathon offered. “Your example is unheard of in the business world and you deserve all the accolades bestowed upon you. Your methods are sometimes unorthodox, but in my opinion, you set a high standard in how to do business that is both ethical and profitable.”

“Well, thank you, Jonathon, but the last week has been quite tumultuous and if I can’t implement the damage control required, you will read quite the opposite of what you just said, in the papers. There are a lot of people out there that are just waiting for me to fail.”

“You will not fail.” Seven’s alto voice was determined.

“Of course, she won’t,” Phoebe agree. “And once Adriana gets through with Avery … Reymers … oh, damn, what’s-his-face … that will remedy some of the scandal of it all.”

Janeway looked at the DA, and she had to admire the dark haired woman for not even blinking. “Reymers will be found guilty. As far as I’m concerned, the scandal will hit his father’s business, more than it will affect Stellar Corporation. Sebastian Reymers is not becoming involved with his son’s defence and he refuses to have anything to do with him.”

“This man is Sebastian Reymer’s son?” Jonathan asked, sounding dumbfounded. “Why would the son of one of America’s richest, most powerful men stoop to kidnapping? Marion and Julia told me some of what has been going on and some I heard for the first time.”

“A very good question,” Janeway allowed. “He was an employee of mine, worked in the sales department in a junior position but also owned a lot of shares.”

“I think if there is anything we don’t know about his motives, we have a good chance of finding out through cross examination,” Adriana suggested. “Reymer’s is still under the impression that his father will fix this for him. He’s in denial.”

They finished the first course in silence. Marion and Julia insisted on clearing the dirty plates while Gretchen and Seven fetched the main course. The grilled tuna with the vegetables was met with the same approval as the salmon.

Janeway looked around the table, pleased to see that everyone was enjoying the food. Her eyes lingered on her sister.

“So, Phoebe, when is the unveiling of your first mural?”

Phoebe swallowed hard and looked suddenly nervous.

“Good lord, Kathryn,” she managed. “Actually, it’s not that far away. I expect to work about a week more and then someone from city hall will decide on the exact day. I’ll get started on the next one, a smaller one at the old city library. They had renovated one of the walls and the old mural was ruined because of some idiot contractor that didn’t know what he was doing, apparently.”

“What is the motif of your mural?” Jonathon asked.

“You will have to come over and give me your opinion,” the artist winked. “I’m always eager to hear how other people interpret it. It’s in the Justice building.”

“I will do that, then,” he replied.

Adriana turned towards Phoebe. “And the mural in the library, will that be a replica of what was there before?”

“God, no! Can you imagine me painting a paddle steamer going up the river? I think not. It will be an original, like the others. The last one will be the largest one, in City Hall.”

Janeway heard Julia’s father inhale deeply and hid a smile as she devoured the meal, feeling utterly relaxed and still very hungry. Jonathon was probably quite overwhelmed at finding out the many various circles his daughter moved in. That, together with Gretchen’s example, would no doubt give the man something to think about.

They ate and talked about several interesting, albeit more neutral subjects. Several times Phoebe’s warped sense of humour or Marion’s and Janeway’s sarcasms would make them laugh out loud, only to be followed by even more laughter at the others’ more subtle remarks.

After the main course, when the table was cleared and the dishes tucked away into the dishwasher, they all settled for just coffee for dessert. Taking their seats in front of the dying fire, Julia was the last to join them. Passing the grand piano, she let her hand slide along the instrument.

“This is such a beautiful old Steinway, Kathryn,” she remarked. “Do you play?”

“No, I don’t, but Seven does. I’m glad someone is finally using it; it’s a family heirloom.”

Marion looked at the blonde with widening eyes. “You play, Seven? Since when?”

“Since I was eight.”

“Why have you never told us?” Marion insisted, still sounding baffled.

“It has never come up in conversation. I am not used to performing.”

“Please, Seven, would you play something for us now? Unless you feel like you are out of practice,” Julia asked.

“I would be happy to and as for out of practice …” The blonde gave her partner a faint smile. “I am sure it will come to me.”

She rose from the leather footstool and walked over to the grand piano. Trying a few chords Seven then began to play the introduction of “As If We Never Said Goodbye” from the musical Sunset Boulevard.

Janeway leaned back into her chair, relaxing as she listened to her fiancée play on the old instrument. The melody resonated through the penthouse, the tall ceiling rendering the living room excellent acoustics. Janeway closed her eyes, basking in the warmth of the fire.

Someone began to sing. The words were unfamiliar, but the voice was not. Janeway’s eyes snapped open and the sight of the blonde sitting at the piano, softly singing the lyrics of the song she was playing, utterly stunned the CEO. She had heard Seven play the piano; she had even heard the blonde sing in the shower, or to the car radio – but not like this. To Janeway’s surprise, tears welled up as Seven’s voice wrapped around her heart.

“I don't know why I'm frightened
I know my way around here
The cardboard trees, the painted seas, the sound here...
Yes, a world to rediscover
But I 'm not in any hurry
And I need a moment

The whispered conversations in overcrowded hallways
The atmosphere as thrilling here as always
Feel the early morning madness
Feel the magic in the making
Why, everything's as if we never said goodbye … “

The room was silent for several seconds after the last chords had died away. Then everyone rose to their feet, surrounding Seven while applauding enthusiastically.

Comment’s hailed over the stunned blonde. “Goodness, girl, you can sing!” “That was so beautiful, Seven.”

Janeway waited until everyone had quieted and then walked up to her partner. She fought to keep the tears from falling as she leaned down to kiss her. “You never, ever cease to amaze me, darling,” she whispered. “I knew you could play like an angel, and I guess I knew you could carry a tune, but this …”

“I have never done this before,” Seven offered, cupping Janeway’s chin. “I have never felt comfortable enough to try. Tonight, surrounded by our friends and family … I guess I dared.”

“You sure did.” Janeway kissed her partner again.

“Where did you learn to play?” Gretchen interrupted, putting an arm around her oldest daughter, squeezing her reassuringly.

“I am autodidact. There is a piano in the attic at Raven’s Island. I had a lot of time on my hands during my parent’s travels so I decided to teach myself.”

“Now, tell me, Seven, do you take requests?” Phoebe asked, her eyes sparkling.

“Of course,” Seven replied with a smile, her voice calm.

Phoebe leaned down and whispered something in the blonde woman’s ear. “Do you know that one?”

“Certainly. Will you be singing?”

“You bet.” Turning towards the mystified audience, Phoebe gave a broad smile. “Considering the significance of what takes place this upcoming Monday, and what we intend to accomplish, I want to sing this very appropriate song. Hit it, Seven!”

Janeway had to press her hand over her mouth to not start laughing when her fiancée struck very familiar chords and her sister struck an even more familiar pose and began to sing:

The warden threw a party in the county jail.
The prison band was there and they began to wail.
The band was jumpin’ and the joint began to swing.
You should’ve heard those knocked out jailbirds sing.
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the jailhouse rock …

Only after the two women had taken several bows after their improvised performance, did the rest of them stop applauding and returned to the fireplace. Janeway took Seven by the hand and offered the younger woman her favourite chair, kissing the blonde hair as she sat down on the armrest.

Suddenly, the light conversation was interrupted by Adriana’s cell phone ringing in her pocket. The ADA excused herself for a moment and left the room to talk in private. She returned shortly with a triumphant look on her face.

“I have to leave earlier than I thought,” she explained. “I’m needed down town. Apparently, Cynthia Thorpe has led the police to an address where several arrests have been made. This could be something very good.”

Janeway’s heart skipped a beat as she looked down at Seven, seeing the hopeful expression on her partner’s face.

“This can be the men who attacked Jacob,” the blonde exhaled.

“It is plausible,” Adriana agreed. “Phoebe, will you see me out? I’d like to talk to you before I leave.”

“Of course,” the youngest Janeway replied and rose from the couch. “I can ride the elevator with you.”

Janeway watched Gretchen’s eyes follow the two women as they left after Adriana had taken farewell of the rest of them, a smile playing on her lips.

The CEO directed her attention back to her fiancée. Seven had a dreamy expression on her face.

“You have a wonderful voice … but I guess I knew that already. I will never grow tired of listening to you, whether you talk or sing.”

Seven only gave a slow smile, “I will remind you of that, many, many years from now.”

*****

Continued in "The Seven Women of Raven's Island" - part 9