new chapter to The Return of Khan!
Title: The Return of Khan
Author: spirktrekker42
Rating: PG-13
Universe: ST:XI
Pairings: S/U, eventual Sc/U and K/S
Completed: No
Words in Chapter 10: 2000+
Warnings: soap opera alert! :P
Summary: Despite Spock Prime's warning, the Enterprise crew welcome the survivors of the S.S. Botany Bay. Khan has no memory of who he is. Kirk decides to befriend him. If given another chance at life, will Khan still revert to his dictator-like tendencies?
Author's Chapter Notes:
Cochrane shares a bed with Kirk. Spock notices Cochrane did not sleep well. Cochrane is confused about his feelings for Kirk, and decides to hide them by actively pursuing Uhura. Scotty is not happy.
Disclaimer: Star Trek is not mine. It belongs to Gene Roddenberry and Paramount. NuTrek is JJ's baby.
A/N: Thanks to everyone that read, reviewed, followed, and favorited this story! I really appreciate the support.
A/N2: A random congratulations to Anne Hathaway and Jennifer Lawrence for winning Golden Globes for their respective movies, Les Mis and Silver Linings Playbook! I would recommend both movies, as I have seen them both in theaters.
A/N3: Congratulations, Mr. Cumberbatch, on being nominated for Sherlock BBC. Better luck next time!
.~.
Chapter 10: Adjustments
.~.
Captain's Quarters
In approximately fifteen minutes, Cochrane had transferred all of his things to Kirk's bedroom. Kirk had cleared out a dresser for him, as well as some closet space. Cochrane neatly hung his black Starfleet shirts next to Kirk's golden ones. He methodically put his underwear, socks, uniform pants, work out Starfleet issue red spandex pants, and two sets of pajamas in the wooden dresser.
"Jim, I need to put a few things in the bathroom. Do I need to knock or anything before I go in?" Cochrane asked.
"Yeah, just knock three times. That's my signal to Spock that I'm coming in to the bathroom. If he's in there, he will knock once to tell me that he is leaving the bathroom. If he doesn't knock back in about five seconds, you are clear to enter the bathroom," said Kirk.
"So you don't use the lock." Cochrane sounded surprised.
"Nope. We've never needed to," Jim admitted.
"That is a simple system," said Cochrane, nodding at Kirk. "Whose idea was that?"
"Mine." Kirk beamed at Cochrane, who cleared his throat. He grabbed his toiletries and turned away quickly, a bit unnerved by Jim's blinding grin.
The leader of the Botany Bay crew knocked on the door to the bathroom three times. After waiting five seconds for a reply and not hearing one, he entered the small bathroom. He found a shower/bath with a familiar silver water shower head as well as the knob for hot, cold, and sonics. Next to the shower was a spotless porcelain sink. He also noticed the spotless porcelain toilet next to it. Cochrane reminded himself to always put the seat down after he urinated, as not to get on the Vulcan's bad side. He doubted Kirk would care, but the Vulcan… he knew he had to be careful. Who knew what kind of strength the Vulcan could unleash on him if angered? They lived a life of peace, true, but Cochrane had come across a few interesting articles on the holonet about male Vulcans "in heat" or whatever they called it. Cochrane would really rather not have to demonstrate his strength to Commander Spock in such a situation.
Cochrane put his deodorant, toothbrush, standard no-itch toothpaste, mint dental floss, hairbrush, shaver, and shaving cream in a small empty drawer on the left underneath the sink. He peeled back the water-resistant, opaque shower curtain and put his shampoo and yellow bar soap in bottom of the triple decker toiletry holder. He decided to go ahead and floss and brush his teeth for the night. It took him about three standard minutes to take care of his teeth. He rinsed and spit, careful not to leave any residue in the blinding white sink. Satisfied, he returned to the bedroom.
"Do you, um, mind if I put on my pajamas in here?" Cochrane asked.
"No," said Kirk, not even looking up from his desk.
Cochrane reached for his black, form fitting pajama shirt and pants. He stripped down to his black boxers, revealing his white, fit chest. He then tossed his uniform down the recycling chute. Carefully watching Kirk, he pulled on his pajama shirt and then the pants. Luckily, Kirk never looked up once. He must be engrossed in his work, Cochrane thought in relief.
Then he had a truly awful thought. Should he dare voice it to the captain? Surely the captain had worked out a system as not to disturb his Vulcan officer.
"Jim?" Cochrane asked timidly.
"Yeah?" Kirk looked up.
"I need to talk to you about something."
"Sure." Kirk turned his computer off. "What's up?"
"It's a tad embarrassing, really."
Kirk grinned. "You can talk to me about anything, you know that. I've pretty much seen it all as captain. You're not gonna shock me."
"Well…" Cochrane started off, not really sure how to begin.
"Does it have to do with your sexual needs?" Kirk guessed.
"How did you know?" Cochrane asked, sounding awed and guilty at the same time.
"It was a good guess," Kirk demurred. "You want to know how to get off without Spock, or me for that matter… hearing you."
"Yes!" Cochrane said gratefully, thankful that he didn't have to actually confess. Kirk really was quite insightful. Perhaps that was part of what made him such an excellent captain.
"Okay. So I think you can manage it in the shower alright."
"Yes."
"But if Spock is in the bathroom…"
"What am I supposed to do?" Cochrane asked.
"Just do it in here. Find a sock or something. I don't really care," said Kirk. "I don't want to see it, hear it, or smell it if at all possible, because chances are if I can figure it out, Spock certainly has."
"I see." Cochrane paled.
"Don't be like that," Kirk coaxed. "It's nothing to be ashamed of. Bones will tell you that it is quite healthy for humans, especially males if done at regular intervals."
"I know, but…"
"You're still a bit embarrassed."
"Not exactly…" Cochrane fibbed. "What happens if I'm not careful enough and Spock does find out?"
"He would be too polite to say anything, most likely," said Kirk.
Cochrane's eyes grew huge. "Most likely?"
"I don't know. I'm not Spock." Kirk shrugged. "He's never mentioned to me that he's heard me, although I am incredibly discreet about it."
Cochrane narrowed his eyes at Kirk. "That is not very reassuring."
"That's the best I can do." Kirk was starting to sound a little bit annoyed. "We can't sound proof the walls because it's against safety regulations. Whatever you do, don't call out anyone's name."
"I understand." But Cochrane still sounded dubious.
"If you play your cards right, maybe you can invite a girl back to the room before you're transferred to the rehab colony," said Kirk, trying his best to give the guy a little hope.
"Is there any protocol on that?" Cochrane was genuinely curious.
"Get her verbal permission when she is sober. Then, just lock the doors. I'll give you my captain's override so you can use it in an emergency."
"You would trust me with that code?" Cochrane's voice softened.
"Yes," Kirk affirmed. "But I wouldn't mention that to Spock. I don't want to get written up, kay?"
"I will not mention it to the commander," said Cochrane. As if he ever would!
"Good." Kirk yawned. "Wow, I'm tired."
"Me too," said Cochrane. "I believe I will turn in for the night."
"Which side of the bed do you want?" Kirk asked.
Cochrane froze. "You are comfortable with me invading your sleeping space?"
Kirk chuckled. "Yeah. Why?"
"I just thought you might have me sleep on the floor."
"Why would I do that? That wouldn't be very hospitable!" Kirk sounded horrified. "I would never do that to one of my crew."
"Oh," said Cochrane. "In that case, I believe I will take the left side."
"That will be fine," said Kirk. "I'm almost done with this paperwork. I'll come to bed in about fifteen minutes. Do you mind if I leave the light on?"
"No," said Cochrane, even though he needed it to be pitch black in order for him to even consider thinking about falling asleep. He didn't want to annoy Kirk even further.
"Thanks."
Kirk was as good as his word. In about fifteen minutes, he changed in to pajamas then disappeared into the bathroom before carefully sliding into bed on the right side. Soon his light snores filled the room. Cochrane turned over on his side, trying to ignore the snoring, but it was difficult. Also, the close proximity to the very attractive captain made him nervous. What if Kirk accidentally grabbed him in his sleep? He didn't think he could handle that. So Cochrane stayed up most of the night worrying.
When Kirk finally woke the next morning to his beeping alarm, Cochrane feigned sleep. He listened as Kirk rose and got ready for Alpha shift. Once Kirk left the bedroom, Cochrane let out a little sigh of relief. He got up and knocked on the bathroom door, even though he was certain the Vulcan was already on the bridge. There was no reply, so he entered the bathroom.
He splashed water on his face, hoping that would jolt him out of his fog. It helped, a little. He peed, took a quick shower, and then he pulled on his uniform. He went through his usual morning routine, made sure the toilet seat was down, and then exited the bathroom. He really hoped that no one could tell he hadn't had the greatest night's rest, especially Commander Spock. Cochrane realized that he was growing a bit paranoid when it came to the Vulcan. He didn't mean to be xenophobic, but he hadn't completely adjusted to living with aliens, much less living in close quarters with one! Hopefully Kirk wouldn't notice either. The captain had enough on his mind.
.~.
Unfortunately, at lunch, Spock noticed. Of course he did, Cochrane thought bitterly. He notices everything!
"Did you not have a restful sleep cycle, Mister Cochrane?" The Vulcan asked just as Cochrane gulped down a glass of water.
"What makes you say that?"
Spock raised an eyebrow. "Many things. For one, you have bags under your eyes."
Cochrane winced. "I suppose I didn't have the best night's rest, yes. You are correct."
Spock's eyes softened just a tad. "You are in a new environment. It is not to be unexpected. Perhaps you could ask Dr. McCoy for a sleep aid?"
"Perhaps," said Cochrane.
"Or perhaps you could read a book or an informational text before bed? That is one way that I ensure that I will fall asleep," Spock offered.
"That is a good idea," Cochrane said diplomatically.
"I will leave you to your lunch, then," said Spock. He left to sit with Mr. Sulu, Mr. Chekov, and Mr. Scott.
Cochrane then realized what was bothering him about Spock's behavior. He was acting much in the same manner as a character in one of the books he had borrowed from Kirk, one Sherlock Holmes.
He brought up his observation to Kirk, who joined him for lunch. Kirk took a huge bite of lasagna and chewed thoughtfully.
"Once Spock suggested to me that the man Sherlock Holmes was based upon was his human ancestor on his mother's side. I couldn't tell if he was joking or not."
"Interesting," was all the Cochrane said.
"Have you had a good day?" Kirk asked.
"I worked out," said Cochrane. "But to be honest, I'm pretty tired. It was difficult to sleep last night. I don't believe I have ever shared a bed with a man before."
Kirk nodded sympathetically. "I hope I stayed on my side."
"You did. However, I was not informed that you snored." Cochrane gave Kirk a pointed look.
"Oops," Kirk blushed a bit. "I don't. Not all the time. Spock told me once that he could hear me snoring, but that it was not every night. I could always talk to Bones about it…"
"That is not necessary," Cochrane said quickly. "I just need to adjust. You have done so much already for me and my people, Jim!"
"I know, but I want you to get a good night's sleep. One night of not sleeping well doesn't make a big difference in the big scheme of things, but two in a row…" Kirk bit his lip. "That's tough. Trust me - I know. After a mission gone wrong… well. Sometimes I stay up and just walk around the ship, trying to figure out what I could do differently next time."
"I did not know that," Cochrane said softly.
"It comes with the territory," said Jim. Then he pulled on his "captain face". "I'm going to ask McCoy for a breathe-right."
"They have those in the 23rd century?" Cochrane just gaped at him.
"A new, improved version, yes," Kirk replied. "They are much more effective than what you had."
"Good," Cochrane muttered under his breath. He didn't want to take another night of Kirk snoring.
"Well, I need to get going," Kirk said, sounding apologetic. "I'm due back on the bridge."
"Don't let me keep you," said Cochrane. He nodded at Jim. "Captain."
Kirk gave his lunch partner a sunny smile before he grabbed his tray and walked off.
Cochrane's insides gave a lurch when the captain smiled at him. What was wrong with him? He needed a distraction and he needed it fast. Perhaps he needed to hit the gym again…
Just then, he noticed Lt. Uhura that walked into the mess hall, wearing her tight, form fitting red skirt uniform. Alone.
"Perfect," Cochrane said under his breath. He focused all his attention on the beautiful African woman.
But what Cochrane didn't notice because he was too wrapped up in watching Uhura's every move was that Mr. Scott had noticed him eyeing Uhura.
.~.
End Chapter 10
A/N: The plot thickens! Reviews and suggestions are great! Bbybyrd, if you are reading this, please send me an email.
Author: spirktrekker42
Rating: PG-13
Universe: ST:XI
Pairings: S/U, eventual Sc/U and K/S
Completed: No
Words in Chapter 10: 2000+
Warnings: soap opera alert! :P
Summary: Despite Spock Prime's warning, the Enterprise crew welcome the survivors of the S.S. Botany Bay. Khan has no memory of who he is. Kirk decides to befriend him. If given another chance at life, will Khan still revert to his dictator-like tendencies?
Author's Chapter Notes:
Cochrane shares a bed with Kirk. Spock notices Cochrane did not sleep well. Cochrane is confused about his feelings for Kirk, and decides to hide them by actively pursuing Uhura. Scotty is not happy.
Disclaimer: Star Trek is not mine. It belongs to Gene Roddenberry and Paramount. NuTrek is JJ's baby.
A/N: Thanks to everyone that read, reviewed, followed, and favorited this story! I really appreciate the support.
A/N2: A random congratulations to Anne Hathaway and Jennifer Lawrence for winning Golden Globes for their respective movies, Les Mis and Silver Linings Playbook! I would recommend both movies, as I have seen them both in theaters.
A/N3: Congratulations, Mr. Cumberbatch, on being nominated for Sherlock BBC. Better luck next time!
.~.
Chapter 10: Adjustments
.~.
Captain's Quarters
In approximately fifteen minutes, Cochrane had transferred all of his things to Kirk's bedroom. Kirk had cleared out a dresser for him, as well as some closet space. Cochrane neatly hung his black Starfleet shirts next to Kirk's golden ones. He methodically put his underwear, socks, uniform pants, work out Starfleet issue red spandex pants, and two sets of pajamas in the wooden dresser.
"Jim, I need to put a few things in the bathroom. Do I need to knock or anything before I go in?" Cochrane asked.
"Yeah, just knock three times. That's my signal to Spock that I'm coming in to the bathroom. If he's in there, he will knock once to tell me that he is leaving the bathroom. If he doesn't knock back in about five seconds, you are clear to enter the bathroom," said Kirk.
"So you don't use the lock." Cochrane sounded surprised.
"Nope. We've never needed to," Jim admitted.
"That is a simple system," said Cochrane, nodding at Kirk. "Whose idea was that?"
"Mine." Kirk beamed at Cochrane, who cleared his throat. He grabbed his toiletries and turned away quickly, a bit unnerved by Jim's blinding grin.
The leader of the Botany Bay crew knocked on the door to the bathroom three times. After waiting five seconds for a reply and not hearing one, he entered the small bathroom. He found a shower/bath with a familiar silver water shower head as well as the knob for hot, cold, and sonics. Next to the shower was a spotless porcelain sink. He also noticed the spotless porcelain toilet next to it. Cochrane reminded himself to always put the seat down after he urinated, as not to get on the Vulcan's bad side. He doubted Kirk would care, but the Vulcan… he knew he had to be careful. Who knew what kind of strength the Vulcan could unleash on him if angered? They lived a life of peace, true, but Cochrane had come across a few interesting articles on the holonet about male Vulcans "in heat" or whatever they called it. Cochrane would really rather not have to demonstrate his strength to Commander Spock in such a situation.
Cochrane put his deodorant, toothbrush, standard no-itch toothpaste, mint dental floss, hairbrush, shaver, and shaving cream in a small empty drawer on the left underneath the sink. He peeled back the water-resistant, opaque shower curtain and put his shampoo and yellow bar soap in bottom of the triple decker toiletry holder. He decided to go ahead and floss and brush his teeth for the night. It took him about three standard minutes to take care of his teeth. He rinsed and spit, careful not to leave any residue in the blinding white sink. Satisfied, he returned to the bedroom.
"Do you, um, mind if I put on my pajamas in here?" Cochrane asked.
"No," said Kirk, not even looking up from his desk.
Cochrane reached for his black, form fitting pajama shirt and pants. He stripped down to his black boxers, revealing his white, fit chest. He then tossed his uniform down the recycling chute. Carefully watching Kirk, he pulled on his pajama shirt and then the pants. Luckily, Kirk never looked up once. He must be engrossed in his work, Cochrane thought in relief.
Then he had a truly awful thought. Should he dare voice it to the captain? Surely the captain had worked out a system as not to disturb his Vulcan officer.
"Jim?" Cochrane asked timidly.
"Yeah?" Kirk looked up.
"I need to talk to you about something."
"Sure." Kirk turned his computer off. "What's up?"
"It's a tad embarrassing, really."
Kirk grinned. "You can talk to me about anything, you know that. I've pretty much seen it all as captain. You're not gonna shock me."
"Well…" Cochrane started off, not really sure how to begin.
"Does it have to do with your sexual needs?" Kirk guessed.
"How did you know?" Cochrane asked, sounding awed and guilty at the same time.
"It was a good guess," Kirk demurred. "You want to know how to get off without Spock, or me for that matter… hearing you."
"Yes!" Cochrane said gratefully, thankful that he didn't have to actually confess. Kirk really was quite insightful. Perhaps that was part of what made him such an excellent captain.
"Okay. So I think you can manage it in the shower alright."
"Yes."
"But if Spock is in the bathroom…"
"What am I supposed to do?" Cochrane asked.
"Just do it in here. Find a sock or something. I don't really care," said Kirk. "I don't want to see it, hear it, or smell it if at all possible, because chances are if I can figure it out, Spock certainly has."
"I see." Cochrane paled.
"Don't be like that," Kirk coaxed. "It's nothing to be ashamed of. Bones will tell you that it is quite healthy for humans, especially males if done at regular intervals."
"I know, but…"
"You're still a bit embarrassed."
"Not exactly…" Cochrane fibbed. "What happens if I'm not careful enough and Spock does find out?"
"He would be too polite to say anything, most likely," said Kirk.
Cochrane's eyes grew huge. "Most likely?"
"I don't know. I'm not Spock." Kirk shrugged. "He's never mentioned to me that he's heard me, although I am incredibly discreet about it."
Cochrane narrowed his eyes at Kirk. "That is not very reassuring."
"That's the best I can do." Kirk was starting to sound a little bit annoyed. "We can't sound proof the walls because it's against safety regulations. Whatever you do, don't call out anyone's name."
"I understand." But Cochrane still sounded dubious.
"If you play your cards right, maybe you can invite a girl back to the room before you're transferred to the rehab colony," said Kirk, trying his best to give the guy a little hope.
"Is there any protocol on that?" Cochrane was genuinely curious.
"Get her verbal permission when she is sober. Then, just lock the doors. I'll give you my captain's override so you can use it in an emergency."
"You would trust me with that code?" Cochrane's voice softened.
"Yes," Kirk affirmed. "But I wouldn't mention that to Spock. I don't want to get written up, kay?"
"I will not mention it to the commander," said Cochrane. As if he ever would!
"Good." Kirk yawned. "Wow, I'm tired."
"Me too," said Cochrane. "I believe I will turn in for the night."
"Which side of the bed do you want?" Kirk asked.
Cochrane froze. "You are comfortable with me invading your sleeping space?"
Kirk chuckled. "Yeah. Why?"
"I just thought you might have me sleep on the floor."
"Why would I do that? That wouldn't be very hospitable!" Kirk sounded horrified. "I would never do that to one of my crew."
"Oh," said Cochrane. "In that case, I believe I will take the left side."
"That will be fine," said Kirk. "I'm almost done with this paperwork. I'll come to bed in about fifteen minutes. Do you mind if I leave the light on?"
"No," said Cochrane, even though he needed it to be pitch black in order for him to even consider thinking about falling asleep. He didn't want to annoy Kirk even further.
"Thanks."
Kirk was as good as his word. In about fifteen minutes, he changed in to pajamas then disappeared into the bathroom before carefully sliding into bed on the right side. Soon his light snores filled the room. Cochrane turned over on his side, trying to ignore the snoring, but it was difficult. Also, the close proximity to the very attractive captain made him nervous. What if Kirk accidentally grabbed him in his sleep? He didn't think he could handle that. So Cochrane stayed up most of the night worrying.
When Kirk finally woke the next morning to his beeping alarm, Cochrane feigned sleep. He listened as Kirk rose and got ready for Alpha shift. Once Kirk left the bedroom, Cochrane let out a little sigh of relief. He got up and knocked on the bathroom door, even though he was certain the Vulcan was already on the bridge. There was no reply, so he entered the bathroom.
He splashed water on his face, hoping that would jolt him out of his fog. It helped, a little. He peed, took a quick shower, and then he pulled on his uniform. He went through his usual morning routine, made sure the toilet seat was down, and then exited the bathroom. He really hoped that no one could tell he hadn't had the greatest night's rest, especially Commander Spock. Cochrane realized that he was growing a bit paranoid when it came to the Vulcan. He didn't mean to be xenophobic, but he hadn't completely adjusted to living with aliens, much less living in close quarters with one! Hopefully Kirk wouldn't notice either. The captain had enough on his mind.
.~.
Unfortunately, at lunch, Spock noticed. Of course he did, Cochrane thought bitterly. He notices everything!
"Did you not have a restful sleep cycle, Mister Cochrane?" The Vulcan asked just as Cochrane gulped down a glass of water.
"What makes you say that?"
Spock raised an eyebrow. "Many things. For one, you have bags under your eyes."
Cochrane winced. "I suppose I didn't have the best night's rest, yes. You are correct."
Spock's eyes softened just a tad. "You are in a new environment. It is not to be unexpected. Perhaps you could ask Dr. McCoy for a sleep aid?"
"Perhaps," said Cochrane.
"Or perhaps you could read a book or an informational text before bed? That is one way that I ensure that I will fall asleep," Spock offered.
"That is a good idea," Cochrane said diplomatically.
"I will leave you to your lunch, then," said Spock. He left to sit with Mr. Sulu, Mr. Chekov, and Mr. Scott.
Cochrane then realized what was bothering him about Spock's behavior. He was acting much in the same manner as a character in one of the books he had borrowed from Kirk, one Sherlock Holmes.
He brought up his observation to Kirk, who joined him for lunch. Kirk took a huge bite of lasagna and chewed thoughtfully.
"Once Spock suggested to me that the man Sherlock Holmes was based upon was his human ancestor on his mother's side. I couldn't tell if he was joking or not."
"Interesting," was all the Cochrane said.
"Have you had a good day?" Kirk asked.
"I worked out," said Cochrane. "But to be honest, I'm pretty tired. It was difficult to sleep last night. I don't believe I have ever shared a bed with a man before."
Kirk nodded sympathetically. "I hope I stayed on my side."
"You did. However, I was not informed that you snored." Cochrane gave Kirk a pointed look.
"Oops," Kirk blushed a bit. "I don't. Not all the time. Spock told me once that he could hear me snoring, but that it was not every night. I could always talk to Bones about it…"
"That is not necessary," Cochrane said quickly. "I just need to adjust. You have done so much already for me and my people, Jim!"
"I know, but I want you to get a good night's sleep. One night of not sleeping well doesn't make a big difference in the big scheme of things, but two in a row…" Kirk bit his lip. "That's tough. Trust me - I know. After a mission gone wrong… well. Sometimes I stay up and just walk around the ship, trying to figure out what I could do differently next time."
"I did not know that," Cochrane said softly.
"It comes with the territory," said Jim. Then he pulled on his "captain face". "I'm going to ask McCoy for a breathe-right."
"They have those in the 23rd century?" Cochrane just gaped at him.
"A new, improved version, yes," Kirk replied. "They are much more effective than what you had."
"Good," Cochrane muttered under his breath. He didn't want to take another night of Kirk snoring.
"Well, I need to get going," Kirk said, sounding apologetic. "I'm due back on the bridge."
"Don't let me keep you," said Cochrane. He nodded at Jim. "Captain."
Kirk gave his lunch partner a sunny smile before he grabbed his tray and walked off.
Cochrane's insides gave a lurch when the captain smiled at him. What was wrong with him? He needed a distraction and he needed it fast. Perhaps he needed to hit the gym again…
Just then, he noticed Lt. Uhura that walked into the mess hall, wearing her tight, form fitting red skirt uniform. Alone.
"Perfect," Cochrane said under his breath. He focused all his attention on the beautiful African woman.
But what Cochrane didn't notice because he was too wrapped up in watching Uhura's every move was that Mr. Scott had noticed him eyeing Uhura.
.~.
End Chapter 10
A/N: The plot thickens! Reviews and suggestions are great! Bbybyrd, if you are reading this, please send me an email.