Girlie Night

Posted on Sat Sep 17th, 2016 @ 8:59am by

3,640 words; about a 18 minute read

Mission: New Faces and Terror Beyond
Location: To Be Decided
Timeline: When ever

ON:

Elizebeth looked at the crew roster and sent out invites with RSVP to see all who would be coming to her 'Crew Ladies Night Outing' in Ten Forward with plenty of time to switch location to the holo-deck if too many people showed up. The gathering would be at 8 pm ship time.

Once that was done, Elizebeth smiled as she made her way to Ten Forward to reserve the Lounge for the party. It would be in three days time. She contacted Annabelle earlier to assist in the social function as Co-Hostess to the event.

****
Accepting the invite:

Ayla sighed as her pad chirped with an incoming message. At first she thought it was the medical machines that was monitoring her baby, Marcie and her Mate Mark, till it chirped again more insistently. She looked at the incoming message and gave thought to whether to attend or not. This was for the Crew's Morale . She sent a reply back that she would attend.

Sgt Winters finished up her reports and just sent them up through the chain of command. Just as she was reaching for the console to shut it off, the icon for an incoming message appeared. She growled at icon, thinking that Major Snyder had it out for her for the Rogue Operation she went on with Miranda. She sighed, debating whether to ignore it or take a look at it. She access her message center and saw that the incoming message was from the CO's wife. "Huh? Whot she want." Her curiosity got the best of her and opened it up. She read the invite. She read it and then looked at her training schedule. It was doable barring emergencies. She replied ::

Dear Elizebeth Dawnstar
I'll glady bethere, barring any emergency
SSG Winters.

She read it and sent it off as her mind shifted to her fiance'. Shutting down the computer console and left the Marine Section. Letting the CQ know she was going to her new quarters to be with her fiance'.

Samantha was in her office going through a new training schedule that she'd been working on when the message came through. Opening it and reading it she smiled. "A girls night out. Interesting." She replied that she would be attending and wondered if Annabelle would be there too or behind the scenes.

Charlie was surprised to find a message waiting for her. She really hadn't taken the time to get to know people on the ship. When she read the message, she smiled as she accepted the invite. Maybe this was her chance to make some friends.

= Party Time =

Elizebeth and Annabelle sat near the door nursing a drink as they waited for the softer side of the crew to show up for the Ladies' Night Out in Ten Forward. At first it was a trickle of the female crewmembers to enter then as it got closer to 8 pm, they came in a surge. Annabelle and Elizebeth greeted each one and soon was involved in discussions as they moved from group to group.

Ayla walked in. She was just as curious to get to know the Captain's Wife and maybe pick up a few hints on the Captain to read him better and to anticipate his orders or to get the crew to respond quicker. She was wearing her fleet uniform which quieted down a lot of the Enlisted and Junior Officers. "Iz apologize in being in uniform. Had to deal with a last minute disciplinary problem." To Elizebeth as she greeted her.

Samantha arrived, stepping through the doors as they opened to show her in another dress of knee length, off the shoulder and small belt around the waist. Her hair was done but not gone so far as to add make up, she was still a marine at heart. She saw Elizebeth, she hoped she didn't cause any offence earlier when she suddenly departed the ladies gathering. Ayla was there too in uniform, that puzzled her slightly but what came next had the biggest impact.

Annabelle.

What happened still rang loudly in her mind, she blushed at the mere thought of it even going so far as to try and hide part of her face with her hair since it was down and flowing over her shoulders.

Annabelle waved to Samantha when she looked her way, but didn't approach her as she was listening to Amanda Winters talking about some happenings in the past. She was smiling and nodding.

Samantha smiled and waved back. She gave a small gesture to come over to her once she'd finished speaking to Amanda Winters. What they did was something she wanted to talk about, it had played on her mind since that night and even Colonel Frost had asked if everything was ok. He must have seen her distracted at work.

Charlotte, or as her friends back home called her, Charlie, frantically got ready. She must have changed into four or five different outfits before settling with stretch jeans and a feminine green tank top that complemented her red hair. She made her way to ten forward and took a few steps in. She stood, looking around. She found herself to be a bit nervous when she saw a few familiar faces of whom she had never talked to before. She took a cleansing breath and exhaled before walking in farther.

Elizebeth politely excused herself and moved gracefully over to Charlotte, "Greetings, Miss ..." With the hesitant pause for a name to be filled in. "I'm Elizebeth. Please mingle with the others and enjoy yourselves.

Ayla stood by and to concession of not being in uniform had removed her uniform jacket, wearing the command red formfitting red t-shirt. "Squeaaa, Iz Ayla." Smiling at Charlotte. "Iz glad yooz could make it."

Charlie smiled, "Thank you." She went over and got a drink. She scanned the room, observing everyone talking. She was feeling a little bit awkward.

Amanda moved to hang out with some of her Fleeter Shipboard friends. She smiled at seeing Major Snyder in civilian attire. This was something to spread about the network of NCO's back the Section.

Annabelle moved gracefully through the room, greeting others she knew, but never hanging out for a few seconds in polite greetings and exchange. She approached Samantha. "I'm so glad you could make it. I was about to send the Marines after you." She pointed to Amanda's back.

Charlie walked around the room, stopping at the different clicks in the room. She finished her drink and went to get another one, saying hi to people who passed by her. Hoping that she wasn't being intrusive, walked back over to Annabelle and Samantha and stood there until they finished their exchange of words.

"I thought you might." Samantha replied with a smile then noticed another join them. "Samantha, Samantha Snyder ships MXO." Her hand out to greet the woman patiently waiting.

"Charlotte Beckett, Security but my friends call me Charlie. Nice to meet you." She shook her hand as she thought to herself ~nice, a female Marine...second in charge. It's about time.~ She smile at the thought, "I hope I'm not intruding. I'm kinda new here, well, sort of. Well, not really." She found herself babbling as she always did when she was nervous, "It's complicated."

"Isn't it always," Annabelle smiled warmly at Charlotte. "I'm Annabelle Fontaine, School Teacher. And have plenty of time to listen. Dunno about Sammy though. Being a Marine and all."

"Less so when men are not involved." Samantha replied with a smile.

Annabelle gave a soft laugh as she gave Samantha a gentle hug. "She's kidding.." Giving Samantha a glance, then looked back at Charlotte. "You prefer Charlotte or Charlie?"

"Charlie. My dad would tease me and say 'sorry Charlie' whenever I wanted something that I couldn't have or when he did something wrong in my presence. My friends thought it was funny so it sort of stuck with me." She hoped that she wasn't babbling again, "How about the two of you?"

Samantha smiled and held the hug with one arm around Annabelle's waist even after it broke. "Sam is fine." Considering the social aspect to the event there was no need to hold onto the full name.

"Anna is fine." Annabelle smiled at the boldness of Samantha. "Been with the Dreadnought long, Charlie?" Showing interest, even though the question was an age old one in the process of getting to know a person. Annabelle leaned lightly against Samantha as she paid attention.

Charlie had to think about it for a moment, "A year but then my Mom had taken ill so I went back to help my dad take care of her. But she died and so I came back here per my Mom's request." She observed the two as she spoke to them. They seemed to be close, very close. Annabelle's giddiness made her smile, "What about the both of you?"

"A while, some would say too long." Samantha replied when she thought about it. "At first I was hesitant about being assigned here but as time went on I came to enjoy it, even if she does have a higher danger evaluation when compared to other postings, even for a starship."

"Long enough to feel I'm standard issue with the ship. Served under three Co's of the ship. This is my home community," Annabelle spoke as she waved her free arm to emphasize that this was her home and will be till the Dreadnought line is decommissioned.

Amanda Winters moved through the gathered, raising an eyebrow at Samantha and Annabelle closeness. Then gave a quick nod as she turned her attention elsewhere.

"How are you ladies doing?" Elizebeth spoke walking up to Charlotte, Samantha and Annabelle. Giving them a bright smile even the slight chill that surrounded her felt proper. "Is Annabelle doing her hostess duties?" Giving Annabelle a mock glare, but the delightfulness in her demeanor shown forth.

"She is doing very well." With the closeness of the pair Samantha decided to return the favour and lightly pinched Annabelle derriere. "Very social." Sam smiled playing off that she was completely innocent of any wrong doing.

Annabelle gave a startled jump at the pinch. She smiled as she glanced at Samantha as she returned her attention to those she was with.

Samantha smiled as her hand flattened to rest on Annabelle's backside. Anna did it when they were dancing in her quarters and she didn't mind it, Sam wanted to see how things were is she did it to Annabelle. If this was something Samantha would have to meet her half way, which meant trying.

Elizebeth smiled seeing what was happening turned to Charlotte, "Whats it like being a Security Officer?" Gently guiding Charlotte away from the young lovers. "Is there any thing I can do for the Department?"

Charlie kept looking over at the two, "Um, it's kind of boring. I thought that we'd have some action around here. I guess I really should be careful for what I wish for and no, there's nothing I can think of right now." She looked back at the commotion behind her again, "How long have they been...you know...a couple? They make a cute one."

Elizebeth gave a soft laugh, "Not very long. You have anyone you're interested in?" Elizebeth looked at Charlotte with interest in her as another important person equal to the rest.

Shyly, "Yeah, there is one guy. He'a a marine. His name is Kyle. We started seeing each other before I left but now that i am back, we are seeing each other again." She smiled just thinking about him.

"That's wonderful," Elizebeth beamed with delight. "It is always nice to come home to someone you enjoy being with. And it makes your job even more important. I'm glad my husband has such a fine crew to lead." She looked over the assembled ladies of the crew. From techs to science. Medical to security. "I feel a lot safer having you as part of this fine crew. Along with the Marines. Do your department and the Marines train together? Sharing knowledge? Improving skills?"

"Not since I've been back but I'm sure now that things have settled down around here since your arrival, we'll be getting back into the groove of things." She thought for a moment, "What is it like having a husband in Starfleet and you being a civilian?" Most of the COs she knew had wives in Starfleet as well.

"I'm a military brat and quite used to being on ships. I haven't really gave it much thought. Any other time it would star-bases when living with family." Elizebeth looked thoughtful. "We got married when he was XO. So I'm used to being on ships. Much, much smaller that this monstrosity. It's like being on horizontal built star-base that can go to warp when needed."

Charlie laughed, "It is a big ship."

Annabelle smile a bit wider at the boldness of Samantha. Two can play the game as she slid her arm around Samantha waist, pulling her close. Letting everyone know they was a couple and at least becoming fast close friends.

Amanda walked by with Ayla discussing something about techniques in cooking. Amanda gave her Second Boss a cheeky grin. "Lookin good!" Sending a compliment to Samantha. Ayla beside her nodded.

"Squeee. Itz good to see yooz getting out more, Samantha." Ayla spoke softly. "Colonel Frost say yooz are hiz right hand man, and has come to depend on yooz."

Samantha felt her face burn red, Annabelle, Captain's Wife, one of her Plat. CO's and now the First Officer. "Thanks." She couldn't believe that was happening so fast and not one of them flinched at it. Just like she hoped was the case following her chat with Jack. "That's right, I've been his Exec for a while now. As for depending, well I'm sure I've given him as many headaches as I've caused for the troops. What Exec wouldn't?" Sam wondered what it must be like to sit in the right side seat on a ship this large. "Are you enjoying yourselves?"

"Itz good to get away from the usual grind of things. Iz see it having a good effect on everyone here." Ayla spoke softly. She couldn't help but glance at the clock, giving the little signs she had other things on her mind and was just bidding her time to be polite. As she kept it hidden from those around her. Getting the feel of things. "Wez do have to keep our bosses on their toes as wez support them to the fullest."

Annabelle looked at Amanda with a smile, "How you and Zan getting along? I heard rumors that you two were shacking up together."

Amanda Winters stuttered at being caught off guard. "Huh.. yeah. I just got clearance to move from the Barracks to private quarters, near both our places of work." She looked at Samantha seeing her way more relaxed than usual. "Thank you for the approval. And just say the word if you get any heat from the troops. I got it covered."

"We're discussing getting married," Amanda admitted with a soft blush.

"Maybe I'll see little Amandas and Zans in my classroom?" Annabelle spoke softly.

Amanda laughed softly, "Hopefully not while I'm wearing Marine green."

Samantha smiled, she was glad to hear people were finding love and settling down, thinking of families and more. "What of you Elizebeth, any children in the works?" A bold question she knew, the Captain's Wife and all that but why not?

Elizebeth looked at Samantha, "We've tried plenty of times," Giving a wide warm smile. "And why spoil a good thing?" Giving the ladies present a warm smile as she looked them over.

Ayla smiled with Mother's Pride. "Children are wonderful to have. It show real commitment in a couples relationship." Another quick covert glance to her watch as her tail tip wiggled as she had it wrapped around her waist in a belt-like fashion.

"I think you would be great as a Mother, and I think this ship needs a family man as a Commanding Officer especially after the Admiral, a unique contrast I think." Samantha replied. The Admiral was dominant in presence, caring in nature but private in many things. The crew wanted to feel the CO was 'Human' as many put it, that they had a connection to him or her in some way.

"I agree. That is why I'm reaching out to the people that inhabit this ship. Both Civilians and Crew of this ship. To Get the feel of the life pulse of this ship." Elizebeth smiled at Samantha. "With me, without rank, A lot more will be open. And in confidence voice the concerns of crew and civilians alike to the Captain in complete confidentiality that no repercussions befalls them."

Elizebeth rolls her eyes in great theatric, resuming speaking. "Unless there is definitely a serious problem that would harm another of our community. Even fleet Councilors must have that clause. For they could easily be accused of being accomplices of the committed crime through conspiracy or other such legalize terminology." Elizebeth raised her hand to forstall comments. "Even subcommanders as yourselves are. Must comply to prevent loss of assets in personnel and equipment. Only people to date that can circumvent that clause would be an ordained religious leader. Which ships now a days don't carry in this day and age."

Charlie stood there with nothing to give to that conversation. She watched as they bantered back and forth.

Amanda looked over at Charlotte. "You're a quiet one. How do you like working for Commander Bawden?" She moved closer to Charlotte to make feel more part of the group.

"He's cool. I was a little worried when I found out that he used to be a marine but he is actually very nice." She lowered her voice, "Sometimes I feel awkward when I stand next to him. I'm like three inches taller than him. I always try to stand a foot away from him so I don't look so tall." She felt her face turn slightly red.

Amanda laughed at hearing that from Charlotte. "At one time he was my CO. Good man to work for. You will learn a lot from him. Just need to show you can handle things and before you know it. You may end up shift leader. Even on the bridge at Tactical." Amanda eyes twinkled with delight. "He likes his coffee black and strong enough to cold start a warp core. Something to know when he is in a foul mood."

Charlie nodded, "Good to know. I will remember that the next time he starts growling and foaming at the mouth." Charlie smiled brightly as she let out a short chuckle. "But seriously, I don't even think he notices me much. I have a habit of being invisible sometimes but that's on me. I need to be more assertive but it's hard sometimes. I don't have an aggressive personality." She added, "Except when I am backed into a corner, then look out."

Amanda laughed along with Charlotte. "Perfect assessment, But the misses mellowed him out to much." She stepped back and looked at Charlotte, sizing her up. "With your physique. Start a regimen of agility routines and cardiovascular to build up flexibility, stamina and endurance. We could get together and I'll teach more than what they teach in security school if interested."

Charlie's tone was that of excitement, "Really? I'm very interested. I had been meaning to get back into an exercise routine but since I've been back, I lack the discipline I once had. But I am sure that will change in time."

"Then meet me and the platoon in Gym 4 at 0430 hrs?" Amanda offered.

"Okay. 0430 hours, Gym 4. Got it." Charlie repeated it once more in her head, "Thank you so much."

Amanda nodded, "I'll see ya then. I'll let the troops know you'll be there and take it easy for your first day, Charlotte." She smiled, "Excuse me. I must run. I need to check up on those that have guard duty as I'm SoG."

Charlie smiled, Bye."

"Squeakies, Iz must be seeing to mez family needs. Iz had a wonderful time." Ayla gave Elizebeth a quick hug and scampered out soon followed by Amanda.

Samantha smiled and nodded to Ayla as she departed. Nice woman should thought

Elizebeth smiled and returned the hug to Ayla, a bit shocked at the familiarity Ayla showed. She looked at those remaining, "Does she do that a lot?"

Annabelle nodded with a smile and a dreamy look. "Yeah she does if she likes you a lot. I had a pleasant time and if you need my help another gathering. I'll be glad to assist." She stepped away from Samantha and moved to Charlotte. "Nice meeting you, Charlotte. We got to get together and Socialize a bit more."

"For sure. It was nice meeting you too." Charlie approached the remaining girls she was hanging with, "Well, it looks like the party is dying down. It's been really fun. We'll have to do this again."

"We should." Samantha replied. "I look forward to it."

Charlie smiled, "Well, I gotta run." She waved at the girls, "Later. girls." She left.

After a few more minutes of socializing, the group began to break up, due to scheduled shifts or getting ready for their next shifts. And the men folks that were coming off duty, following habit like to relax in Ten Forward before moving onto their next order of business.

Tag

OFF:


Cmdr Ayla Bawden
XO Dreadnought

Major Samantha Snyder
Marine XO

Lieutenant Charlotte Beckett
Security Officer

Elizebeth Dawnstar
CO's Wife

SSG Amanda Winters
Marine Pltn Sgt.

Miss Annabelle Fontaine
School Teacher

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