Chapter Text
‘Captain’s log, Stardate 481218.7 (December 22nd)
The holidays are approaching us as we float within the Beta system. So far no distress calls have been transmitted to us and no missions have been in the works, allowing me to
offer the crew a much needed holiday break. We are, nevertheless, still on guard for any potential threats.’
The warm lights on the Crusher Christmas tree shimmered in the firelight as Beverly wove the shining, silver garland around the branches...with the help of Wesley, of course.
“Sleigh Bells ring...are you listening? In the land...snow is glistening…”
“Do you have to sing every time we decorate the tree, Mom?”
Beverly paused just as she was about to place the first ornament on the tree. “What? Is there something wrong with my singing?”
Wesley shook his head, and helped by placing another ornament. “Nope. Just wondering.”
Beverly removed a small, golden bird from the box of ornaments and carefully perched it on another branch. “Why wouldn’t I sing? It’s festive.”
Wesley hung another silver ornament. “Well, there’s really no need to sing every time...unless you’re hoping Jean Luc will pass by.”
Beverly ruffled his hair. “Oh, stop! ” When they’d both caught their breath, she added, “And that’s Captain to you.”
Wesley shrugged and added another ornament.
As her son hung the final ornament, Beverly brought out a shining angel in an elegant, cream colored gown, flowing auburn hair, and gold wings. “The angel,” Wesley gasped, “I forgot you even kept it.”
Beverly sighed, “Well, it hurt too much to place it on the tree for a while after your father died, but it was his favorite part of the season.”
Wesley smiled. “It was his favorite. He said it reminded him of you..”
Beverly placed the angel on the very top. She took a step back and put an arm around her son.
“And now, it reminds me of him.”
They stood there for a moment, thinking of the memories. Finally, Beverly pulled back. “Enough reliving the past. Let’s go get some hot chocolate.”
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As expected, Deanna was already ahead of them.
“Merry Christmas,” she greeted, smiling behind a mug of steaming hot chocolate, topped off with whipped cream and chocolate chips. Beverly and Wesley sat across from her.
“Merry Christmas, Deanna,” replied Beverly, “It’s only a few days away. Any plans for this season?”
Deanna sighed, “Well, my mother’s coming over this evening for the holidays, so there’s that…”
“You sound thrilled,” Beverly chuckled, “Is that why you have chocolate?”
“No…” she replied guiltily. She hesitated. “Okay, so maybe that’s part of the reason.”
Beverly smiled. “I may not be an empath, but I know when you’re in a bad mood.”
Deanna stirred her hot chocolate and smiled at her, “I’m alright, Doctor.” She said playfully.
Tasha entered the cafeteria, ordered a bowl of soup, and sat beside them.
“Merry Christmas, Tasha,” said Beverly.
Tasha nodded. “Merry Christmas.”
Beverly didn’t notice anything, but somehow, Deanna did. She had that look in her eyes, as if she were staring off into space.
“Tasha,” asked Deanna, “is something wrong?”
Tasha shook her head, “It’s nothing,” she said, glancing briefly at Beverly and Wesley, “I’m fine. ”
Deanna sighed, and took another sip of her hot chocolate to distract herself from...well...whatever negative emotion she was sensing. Meanwhile, Tasha seemed oddly
distant, and Beverly couldn’t help feeling confused about what all of this was about. All I said was “Merry Christmas,” she thought.
Wesley decided to reset the uncomfortable mood by changing the subject. “So, Tasha, you got a day off today, didn’t you?”
Beverly sighed. That’s my son .
Tasha regained her confident posture. “Yes. The captain said I’ve been working hard, so he gave me and Worf a break. Data is in charge of security for the day.”
“Do you have any plans?” Beverly added.
“Yes. Worf and I are going to test out one of the new dueling programs in the holodeck. I’ve heard it’s themed to be a full blown karate ring instead of the usual training
programs that I use.”
Deanna smiled. She’d known Tasha to use the training programs not only to improve her skills, but for enjoyment or to vent her anger. It was like Tasa’s version of
chocolate...in a way. “I’m sure you’ll enjoy that, Tasha.” she said.
Tasha nodded. “And so will Worf. He says he’s looking forward to it.”
Beverly’s combadge clicked, interrupting the conversation, and the captain’s voice spoke into it. “Picard to Medical Base.”
Beverly tapped her combadge. “Beverly here, Captain.”
“We have an injured patient coming from holodeck two to sick-bay. His injuries aren’t too severe, but they require medical attention.”
“I’m on my way.”
She stood up and turned to her son, “Wesley, go back to your quarters and get your homework done.”
“But Mom...”
“Don’t you ‘Mom’ me. Christmas break is coming up, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax then.”
Wesley stood up reluctantly. “Alright…”
As both Wesley and Beverly left, Tasha slumped once again in her seat. Deanna reached out and took her hand.
“Tasha, I want you to be honest with me.”
Tasha sighed. “To tell you the truth, Counselor... I’ve never celebrated Christmas before.”