Like, why didn’t the writers throw us a bone and have Chaks and KJ both on the planet… eventually becoming lovers… and then being ripped cruely apart when Tuvok returns with the ship (a la Resolutions all over again only this time they actually on-screen did it)??
I’d sign up for that angst…
Just imagine the Doc and Tom chatting casually to Chaks in sickbay to get a feel for his sorry little brainwashed life on the planet and then KJ turns up, and snuggles herself right into the big bear’s side. Doc and Tom are eye-ball popping, and then Chaks leans down, kisses her forehead, and introduces HIS WIFE. Cut to close up of rings on their fingers. Tom nearly passes out. Enter Tuvok as KJ and Chaks explain who they both think it’s cute that they would have known each other before the planet. It explains why they feel so ‘meant to be’. Cue eyebrow raise. Tom and the doc share a sad look.
Anyway, memories are eventually restored. Chaks comes back first and he holes up in his quarters – he can’t face Kathryn / feels responsible for them getting together on the planet as his brainwashed-ass made the first move. KJ doesn’t understand why he’s shutting her out and confides her fears in B’Elanna, who’s also only semi Compes Mendes. Then, suddenly, full Janeway mode is activated. And the reality of sucksville aka: Tuvok the mighty cock blocker hits home hard.
Chaks tries to jump ship to spare them the pain. KJ finds out and beats him to the shuttle he was gonna sneak away on. He opens the shuttle doors to find her sat inside. “Going somewhere, Commander?” (How he loathes his title in that moment). They have a heart to heart, agree once again that the ship comes first, and throwback thursday to the resolutions hand-holding gesture. Shippers sob worldwide.
The end.
Or, y’know, plot twist – she’s pregnant.
Or, they try to be all profesh and avoid each other for a while, then get more comfy and start re-discovering all the things that made their friendship great… and then – BOOM – plot twist – she’s pregnant.
Or. they experience a few minor and then one MAJOR slip up in off-duty hours – become friends with benefits – BOOM – pregnant. Not even a plot twist this time. Because, let’s face it, we all know KJ did not keep up with her boosters.
Seriously. This ep is like the JC gift that could have kept on giving. What a waste.
bekjaneway 