So we just watched "The Lion in Winter" and I remembered this story, and had another look. And guess what: It holds up! :) *blows a kiss*

I really enjoyed this story and the progression of Janeway and Paris' relationship. The device of the 2.5 years in an alternate timeline was a great idea. The jump from the Delta to Alpha Quadrant felt a bit abrupt and was disorienting, but I quickly settled back in to the story Well done.

I love this story. The early and middle chapters were especially powerful although Dorvan had me crying too!
The temporal anomaly and the fall out after were so beautifully drawn, I could see Tom taking this course after such an experience.
I wish there was more story to tie up the end - more of the actual discussion regarding the boy and finally recognizing the extent of their feelings.
As always your writing is beautiful and emotionally thought provoking. I can't tell you how many pages of quotes I collected from this for their imagery and insight.
Thank you!

This is such a delightful story! It felt like a rollercoaster ride, Kathryn and Tom went through so much before it dawned on them that they were in love. I liked how you described at every point their emotional turmoil, as well as that of the others, particularly in the aftermath of the anomaly. You write very well, I have yet to find a story of yours that I haven't liked.

How has this only got 28 reviews? Are people blind, lazy, or just stupid? This is amazing, gorgeously done. I ADORE your characterisation and I especially love how you remix the relationships without vilifying anyone. I'm so tired of reading about evil!Seven or evil!B'Elanna- although granted, there's not so much of the latter.

Fab, FAB story. Will definitely reread, multiple times- and download to my iPad if you don't object.

I so love this last part, it's beautifully done!

This is an extraordinary story. I'll admit, before reading it I wasn't keen on the idea of a Paris/Janeaway romantic relationship, but this story really made it work by the end. And the reason for that, I think, is that their feelings are hard won and take a long time to grow, and that's what makes them convincing. Your use of Tom's memories from the alternate timeline as the beginning of their deepening friendship works very well as a device: it makes his more mature attitude plausible and even welcome, and gives you a lot of psychological space to play with as he readjusts to his original timeline. But the aftershocks of that event are profound, affecting him and his relationship with her for years. The "game" with the darts as they (re)acquaint worked exceptionally well. Moving the story out of the "present" on Voyager and into the future works well to bring the story to its conclusion: I don't think I could have seen the relationship develop thus while on Voyager, and their life paths as you develop them, moving away and then back close, is plausible and convincing. (Nice view of Riker and Troi too, who provide a nice model for a working relationship.) The fears both feel as their relationship alters are completely realistic too, especially given how carefully you've built their relationship, and ultimately make the conclusion very satisfying. I loved the public conversation about diplomacy, in which Janeaway reveals covertly all she's thinking about their relationship and that leads to the final resolution. And such a great title: I got the allusion as soon as I saw it, one of my favorite lines in one of my favorite films-and starring that other great Katherine in one of her best roles ever! Thanks very much for such a sensitively and finely done story.

You had me worried for a little while - thought they were never going to get together! I hoped you were planning on them adopting the little boy. Great story! Thanks for writing.

Another great chapter, i could totally see where Tom was coming from when he walke away from KJ, but i was really happy when she went and found him and horah they fnally got it together. Brilliant writing can't wait for the update.

You. Are. The Best. That is all.

oh i hoped they would adopt the boy :) wonderful chapter :)

Wonderful story! Your Tom and Kathryn stories bring such emotion with them. I really liked how you showed the progress of their relationship, how it grew and changed. Beautiful!

Beautiful chapter heading and beautiful images to close a beautiful story. I am so glad you are using your gift to enhance the world of Voyager, and to shine a light into places the original writers failed to see.

First of all appoligies for the delay in reviewing. I read on my phone and then review, however i have just got a new phone and it is not playing ball. any way enough groveling, on with the review.

I really enjoyed this chapter, the reaction Of KJ to Tom's imminant death was wonderfully written and i could totally feel her pain. now at least she has some idea of what tom felt like when he lost her in the AU.

I could totally picture the accidental kiss at the end, what a clever way to intruduce our faviurite couple to their obviuos supressed feelings. Can't wait for the next update as everytime i see one i get more excited than i probably should. XxX

Fantastic chapter. Can't wait for the next one.