Now that the ship had left Event Horizon and was back to its normal assignment of exploring the Delta Quadrant, Zef and Alex couldn’t have all their meals together. It was midday when she entered the officer’s mess and chose a table that sat next to a viewport. She had some free time and planned on sitting there, drinking coffee and contemplating the universe. With the changes of the last few weeks, she had a lot to think about.

As soon as Harv saw her, he made her a cup of strong, creamy coffee and placed it in front of her. Zef smiled up, gratefully. “Thanks, Harv…I’ve been looking forward to this all day!!”

Since she’d gotten the news that she was, indeed, pregnant, the counselor had limited her caffeine intake but always had a cup at lunchtime.

—Rollo, CNS