FIC: Jim Kirk, relationship genius part 5/6
Fic: Jim Kirk, relationship genius part 5
Series: How to bag and keep a Vulcan
Pairing: Kirk/Spock
Fandom: Star Trek 2009
Summary: So, Jim finally managed to bag his Vulcan, and it's great. Still, this relationship business isn't easy, first they have to make it work.
Crossposted at AO3 and at the kirkspock community.
Rating: Explicit
Disclaimer: Not mine, just borrowing them...
More notes and chapter overview are here.
Previous parts are here: part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4
Jim Kirk, relationship genius part 5
Meeting the family
Uhura
Uhura corners him about four weeks after Spock and Jim have started their thing. She yanks him into a room and stares at him until he starts to squirm. She’s scary, okay? This is the woman who single-handedly disposed of a bunch of Klingons who thought she might make a good little pet. Also she doesn’t take any bullshit from Jim, which he greatly admires. But now she’s glaring at him with her evil laser eyes that totally look through his “I’m awesome and also confident, really” pose and somehow she looms over him although he’s taller and Jim fidgets and squirms.
“Captain.” Only Uhura can say his title like that, chock-full of sarcasm.
“Um. Yes?”
He hates that his voice sounds so meek, but he kinda feels like he did in first grade when he convinced Lee Evans to eat all the chalk and his teacher dragged him to the principal’s office by his earlobe. Jim’s hands rise towards his ears and he forces them to cross instead. He’s the Captain, for fuck’s sake.
“Kirk. Tell me what your intentions with Spock are.”
“Um.”
“Right now.”
She steps closer and shoves a very pointy finger into his chest. Ouch!
“Um. I maybe kinda like him?”
“You ‘maybe kinda like him’.”
“Uh, yes?”
“That’s not good enough. See, Spock is one of my closest friends, and I would really hate it if some stupid prick just used him for his own pleasure. In fact, I would hate that so much that the stupid prick in question would regret his actions for the rest of his very short life.”
“… I maybe like him a lot? Like, really a lot?”
“Do you love him?”
And that’s a very good question. Uhura stares at him expectantly, and the expression in her beautiful face makes it clear that she will fuck his shit up if she doesn’t like the answer. So, Jim thinks about it, really thinks about it.
At first it was only jealousy and a very big amount of arousal. Then he realized how much he likes to just be with Spock, without the sex, just talking and spending time together. They function as friends as well as lovers, which is amazing in its own way. Apart from Bones, Jim’s never had that kind of deep connection to someone, and he cherishes the bond they have. Over the time he realized that he wants Spock around all the time, wants him there and close. Wants to laugh with him, tell him dirty jokes and grin at the face Spock makes at them, wants to cuddle on the sofa and maybe spend the weekend on an island somewhere. Wants to tell him his most embarrassing childhood stories, even talk about all the awful stuff that’s happened to him - but only when it’s dark and Spock won’t see his wet eyes.
Jim wants his Vulcan next to him, on the bridge, in the mess hall, in their quarters, in battle and in danger and in joy, and he’d really like to grow old with him. So, a good question, but also a very easy one.
“There’s this Vulcan word, I guess you know it? It’s… it’s a pretty good description for Spock and me, actually, for what we… well, for us. It’s t’hy’la.”
Uhura’s eyes widen. Jim squirms some more. He hates talking about this stuff. Suddenly Uhura wraps her arms around him and hugs him tight. Jim’s a little shocked, but also absurdly pleased. He squeezes back tentatively and pats her back a little. She pulls back and looks at him. Her eyes are wet and her smile’s shaky. Jeez, he really didn’t want to make her cry.
“Thank you, Jim.”
“Uh, you’re welcome?”
That was not quite what he expected. Maybe he should say something? Like that he could totally feel her boobs just now? Nah, that would ruin the mood, and also he knows when to shut up. Mostly.
Uhura steps back and suddenly the teary-eyed girl is gone and again the decorated Starfleet officer and also scary woman looks at him.
“But seriously, Kirk, if you break his heart I’ll break your legs. And maybe cut of Jim Junior. Are we clear?”
“Crystal.” He did not just squeak, dammit, and he will deny it until his dying breath, but cut off Captain Awesome? That’s just mean. Evil, evil woman.
“Good.” Uhura narrows her eyes at him again, swirls around and starts to walk off.
“Uhura?”
“Yes?”
“Thank you, too. I know how much Spock means to you and how much you mean to him, so, thank you. For, you know. Not hitting me and the other stuff.”
Jim flees, but not before he sees her softening eyes and the tender smile. Dammit. He needs to do something manly now, or everybody will think he’s a fourteen year old girl. The best option is clearly drinking with Bones, because his best friend doesn’t talk about feelings and shit like that, and he needs some rants and abuse right now. That’ll make him feel manly. Oh, and maybe some of that awesome kiwi liqueur.
Bones
They are on a trip to Vulcan to drop off some supplies. Milk run, really, no danger in sight, and yet his sickbay never has been fuller. Maybe it’s the free time without the threat of being blown up, but whenever the Enterprise is on a mission like that, Leonard has to deal with crazy hypochondriacs, weird fencing accidents (he still doesn’t believe Chekov just “fell” on the hilt of Sulu’s Katana) or strange sicknesses because Scotty played with the replicators again.
Leonard shoves a couple of hypos into Jim’s neck, just in case, sends him off to his shift and starts dealing with the anxious mob cluttering his sickbay. He leaves the “real” patients to Chapel, because he’s discovered his sunny demeanor and dulcet tones are very effective in dealing with the crazy people.
“Hello again, Ensign Perry. What seems to be the problem today?”
“Um. I have this, like, rash?” The ensign giggles nervously, twists a strand of hair around her finger and blushes.
“A rash, u-huh. And where would that rash be located?”
“Uh, like, down there? On my girl parts?”
“Hmm.” Bones takes out his scanner and waves it over the ensign. Bit dehydrated, low vitamins, probably doesn’t sleep as much as she should. And this particular reading, right there… He’s seen that before, right after Jim hooked up with that sleazy Devellian bartender. Marked his first treatment of then-Cadet Kirk, too, the first hypos shoved into Jim’s neck and the first pained complaints. Ah, the good old days.
“And when did it start, this rash?”
“Two days ago? Like in the morning?”
“Let me guess. You went shopping last shore leave, and bought yourself a tube of Devellian lube. Really, girl, you should know that most humans are allergic to the Devellian plant. No matter how sweet it smells, you really shouldn’t have used it.”
“Oh.” His patient bites her lips and looks down.
“Don’t worry, Ensign Perry. This crème here will clear it up in a few days. You should send your partner in, too, he might show the same reaction.”
“Oh, sure! Ross is, like, right outside, wait a second! ROSS!”
Leonard cringes. That girl sure can yell. A girl in an Ensign’s uniform - StMartin? StMiller? StMiranda? StMoose? No, StMatthew- bounces in and flops onto the bed next to Perry. What the? She looks at Leonard, looks at Perry and blushes a bright red - oh, so that’s her partner. The two Ensigns have a whispered conversation, Leonard can only make out a few words like “rash”, “crème”, “…and Gaila!” Leonard rolls his eyes and fidgets with the tube of crème in his hands.
“You about done here?” He hasn’t got all day, there are more patients awaiting his tender ministrations.
“Just ask him!” Ensign Perry giggles and shoves her partner. The other blushes and clamps her hands over her mouth. “No, you ask him!”
This makes Leonard frown. Huh?
“So, Dr. McCoy…” Perry looks at him through her lashes and gives him a coy smile, her voice sounds slightly breathless. “This crème… could you, like, show us how to put it on? You know, just to make sure we’re doing it right?”
StMatthew flutters her lashes at him and bites her lips, tongue darting briefly out to wet them. Leonard frowns some more. It’s just a crème, dammit, how can it be hard to understand how to put it on? He opens his mouth to tell them so, and closes it again, confused. Both Ensigns are fiery-red now, giggling and elbowing each other, hissing “Shh!” when this makes the other giggle even louder. What is going on with those two?
“Really, it’s quite simple. Just squeeze and rub, that’s all.”
Perry doubles over, clutching her stomach. StMatthew shrieks and falls from the bed. Both have tears in their eyes and are shaking with laughter. Leonard scoffs and throws the tube of crème on the biobed next to them. Let Chapel deal with those girls, he’s gonna look for someone who’s less crazy. He’s a doctor, dammit, not an entertainer.
His gaze falls on Spock, who’s just entered for his weekly vitamin shot. Perfect, he still has a bone to pick with that Vulcan. He gets Spock’s attention and jerks his head imperiously towards his office. Spock follows dutifully and closes the door behind them. Leonard settles behind his desk and just looks at the Vulcan. Spock lifts his eyebrow when he doesn’t offer him a chair. Leonard keeps silent and just watches the Commander, waits for the tiny signals - there. Spock’s hands move from his side to clasp behind his back and he shifts a fraction of an inch. Good. Leonard wants him to be uncomfortable.
“So. You and Jim.”
Spock raises his other eyebrow and gives a curt nod. “Indeed.”
“Can’t say I’m all that happy about it.”
“I have assumed as much.”
Of course he did, Leonard is kinda predictable that way. Spock is a good enough guy, but Leonard can’t forget this is the bastard that marooned his best friend on a monster-infested ice planet and choked him almost to death. He was okay with it when it seemed to be just sex, but later… Jim came to him, beaming and so proud and happy, and told him they were moving in together. Bones looked at his best friend, thought about Jim’s childhood, the awful things that happened to him, his constant need for attention, the way he seems almost touch-starved now and then, how he hides his brilliant mind and his insecurity behind the image of the brave, cocky, daring Captain and wondered if this was the right choice. If Spock was the right guy for his best friend, if he could give Jim the security and care and love he needs. He wondered and looked at Jim, and his best friend’s face started falling and he got fidgety and insecure, looked at him with wide, nervous eyes, and Leonard made his decision.
“Hell, kid, if you’re happy, I’m happy.”
Jim beamed and gave him a hug and ran away right afterwards, blushing furiously. Leonard felt kinda pleased and relieved, but also wary and quite a bit concerned. The kid deserves to be happy. And if this means Leonard has to look after him, take care of him, protect him from himself and from others, from getting his heart broken or getting hurt by this robot in front of him, he will. He is Leonard McCoy, and he will protect those who are his. He shakes his head and focuses on the hobgoblin.
“So. Got anything to tell me?”
Spock lifts his eyebrow. Leonard lifts his back. Two can play that game, Mister Vulcan.
“I would assume that the personal relationship between the Captain and I was no concern of yours, Doctor. However…”
Leonard straightens and draws a sharp breath. “Listen, you pointy-eared bastard, Jim’s my best friend, he’s family, dammit, and I very much have the right to know about…”
“You did not let me finish my sentence, Doctor. However, in regard of the deep connection between Jim and yourself I will agree to talk about these very private matters. I wish to assure you my intentions are quite honest. I neither desire to end our relationship, nor do I want to treat Jim like a, I believe the human expression would be ‘fling’? My… affection for Jim is quite deep.”
“Yeah.” Leonard grunts and settles back into his chair. The Vulcan seems sincere enough, so maybe this really is gonna work.
“Furthermore, I…” Spock hesitates and briefly looks to the floor. What? The Vulcan’s nervous? Leonard has never seen him like that, insecure and searching for words. “I find myself greatly desiring an even deeper bond. I was… I was hoping you might lend your expertise for this.”
And now he’s even stammering! Look at that Vulcan, all besotted and in love with the most human of all humans. Leonard can’t help but smile. He’s gonna tease the goblin forever.
“Sure. What d’you need my help for?”
“I desire to… to make our bond more formal, recognized in the eyes of my and your people.”
“What?! You wanna propose to Jim?!”
“Indeed. Although I have researched in Terran romantic novels and entertainment features, I am unsure how to proceed accordingly, since obtaining white doves or a marching band seems quite difficult while onboard this vessel.”
Leonard slumps back. Wow. He never thought this day would come. “Uh sure. I’ll help you. But I’m only doing it for Jim, just so you know.”
“Of course. Most appreciated, Doctor. Would you be willing to meet at a later time to discuss the possible scenarios for my proposal to the Captain?”
“No problem. Swing by here later after your shift ends or something. I’ll bring the booze, you bring the chocolate, because we seriously need to get drunk to talk about this stuff.”
“Very well. If that would be all? Nurse Chapel was waving her hypo quite ferociously earlier and I would not want to keep her waiting much longer.”
“Yeah, yeah, go. See you later.”
“Doctor.” Spock inclines his head and turns to leave.
“Oh, and Spock? Two more things.”
“Yes?”
“If I help you I get to be the best man.”
“Naturally. I do not think Jim would be satisfied with anybody else. And secondly?”
“Secondly, if you hurt him, I’ll kill you.”
Spock looks at him for a long moment, before he nods once, something like respect in his eyes. “I would expect nothing less, dear Doctor. Your dedication and desire to protect my mate is appreciated and welcome. You are his family, after all, which makes you a part of my family, as well. Should I hurt Jim in any way, deliberately or as the result of an accident, I will gladly subject myself to you and bear any punishment you choose.”
“…okay. As long as we’re clear.”
Spock leaves and Leonard stares at the ceiling. Family, huh. Considering how private Vulcans are and how little family Spock actually has left, this is quite… unexpected, yeah, but kinda amazing. Seems the hobgoblin really means it with Jim, and Leonard suddenly doesn’t mind their relationship that much. Doesn’t mean he won’t tease them both mercilessly, though. Leonard grins suddenly and starts thinking about in what horrible cheesy way he can make Spock propose to the kid.
Sarek
Meeting Spock’s father went… well, quite as expected. The ambassador obviously didn’t approve of Spock’s “liaison” with “this colorful human”, but kept his opinion mostly to himself. Maybe the older Spock’s decidedly un-Vulcan smile had something to do with that, but Jim’s not sure. Sarek just looked at him with displeased and derisive eyebrows and didn’t really talk to him. Jim didn’t mind really, because he had no idea what to tell the guy. He imagined, “I’m banging your son and it’s awesome” or “did you know Spock was a total bottom?” wouldn’t have gone over that well.
Over the time though, things get a little better, Sarek mostly uses his name now instead of “that human” and has almost stopped telling Spock about all the nice single Vulcan ladies that are just dying to meet him. And when Spock tells his father they want to marry, Sarek’s face gets a little soft and his eyes widen a little, and he tells them Amanda would have liked that. Spock looks very pleased, Jim grins so wide his face hurts, and Sarek doesn’t flinch all that much when Jim hugs him.
Sam and Winona Kirk
Jim hasn’t spoken to his mother since he enlisted in Starfleet. He’s sent his brother a message when it became clear the Spock, was, you know, the one, and he figures Sam told their mother. Sam sent a message back full of sarcasm and older brother talk, including helpful suggestions how Jim could hide his insanity until they got married and Spock was stuck with him. He finished with some manipulated pictures Jim in frilly pink dresses, because it would be obvious that his little brother was the girl in their relationship.
During their next shore leave Jim commed his brother for an hour-long conversation, full of yelling and snarking and making fun of each other, and Spock lifted his eyebrow at this obvious display of human madness, but sent warm feelings over their bond at Jim’s joy to see his brother again, even if only on a screen. Jim pulled him in, put an arm around his shoulders and presented him proudly to his brother’s inspection. Sam narrowed his eyes and tried to look intimidating, but Spock gazed back unmoved - outwardly, at least, Jim could feel the hint of nervousness his Vulcan would never admit to - and curled his fingers around Jim’s. Then, Sam nodded once, as if he’d come to a satisfying conclusion and yelled at Jim to not even think about naming their first-born after him. Jim yelled back, Spock lifted an eyebrow and left them to their bickering, trailing warm fingers along Jim’s neck and sending amusement and relief over their bond.
Two days later Jim gets a message from his mother. He fidgets and bites his knuckles a little, but finally he opens and reads it. It’s obvious Winona doesn’t know how to talk to him anymore, the message is stilted and full of superficialities. Awkward questions about his health and hobbies are followed by forcedly happy congratulations for his promotion and captaincy. Finally Winona writes she’s glad he’s found someone nice and, according to the pictures, handsome. She’s researched Spock a little and did Jim know that his partner was some kind of royalty? It’s obvious Spock is very well off, and she really hopes the Vulcan will stick around, even if this means no more grandchildren. Jim’s stomach twists unpleasantly and his eyes burn, he skims the rest of the text full of inane chatter about weather in Iowa and how Frank fixed the roof after the last storm, how Winona hopes Jim’ll come visit her and bring his handsome Vulcan so she can meet him, and there it is, the last line, which feels like a punch in the gut, and Jim shoves the PADD away and bangs his fist against the wall, before he muffles his sobs in the pillow.
“Your father would be proud.”
Jim is 28, he’s captain, he’s a hero, he has friends and a crew, he has a lover whom he’ll probably marry someday, he’s happy and content, but these five words still turn him into a wreck. A small boy with bruises and black eyes, a boy without a father, whose brother left him, whose mother didn’t see him beneath the shadow of George Kirk.
Spock finds him later, red eyed and shaking, curled into a ball on their bed. Jim’s a little ashamed that Spock sees him like this, but it’s drowned by his intense and fierce love for his Vulcan, who lies down behind him, presses close and runs soothing hands all over Jim’s body. He turns and hides his face under Spock’s chin, nestles close to that warm, sweet skin, and Spock holds him and strokes his neck and doesn’t ask.
Part 6 is here
Series: How to bag and keep a Vulcan
Pairing: Kirk/Spock
Fandom: Star Trek 2009
Summary: So, Jim finally managed to bag his Vulcan, and it's great. Still, this relationship business isn't easy, first they have to make it work.
Crossposted at AO3 and at the kirkspock community.
Rating: Explicit
Disclaimer: Not mine, just borrowing them...
More notes and chapter overview are here.
Previous parts are here: part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4
Jim Kirk, relationship genius part 5
Meeting the family
Uhura
Uhura corners him about four weeks after Spock and Jim have started their thing. She yanks him into a room and stares at him until he starts to squirm. She’s scary, okay? This is the woman who single-handedly disposed of a bunch of Klingons who thought she might make a good little pet. Also she doesn’t take any bullshit from Jim, which he greatly admires. But now she’s glaring at him with her evil laser eyes that totally look through his “I’m awesome and also confident, really” pose and somehow she looms over him although he’s taller and Jim fidgets and squirms.
“Captain.” Only Uhura can say his title like that, chock-full of sarcasm.
“Um. Yes?”
He hates that his voice sounds so meek, but he kinda feels like he did in first grade when he convinced Lee Evans to eat all the chalk and his teacher dragged him to the principal’s office by his earlobe. Jim’s hands rise towards his ears and he forces them to cross instead. He’s the Captain, for fuck’s sake.
“Kirk. Tell me what your intentions with Spock are.”
“Um.”
“Right now.”
She steps closer and shoves a very pointy finger into his chest. Ouch!
“Um. I maybe kinda like him?”
“You ‘maybe kinda like him’.”
“Uh, yes?”
“That’s not good enough. See, Spock is one of my closest friends, and I would really hate it if some stupid prick just used him for his own pleasure. In fact, I would hate that so much that the stupid prick in question would regret his actions for the rest of his very short life.”
“… I maybe like him a lot? Like, really a lot?”
“Do you love him?”
And that’s a very good question. Uhura stares at him expectantly, and the expression in her beautiful face makes it clear that she will fuck his shit up if she doesn’t like the answer. So, Jim thinks about it, really thinks about it.
At first it was only jealousy and a very big amount of arousal. Then he realized how much he likes to just be with Spock, without the sex, just talking and spending time together. They function as friends as well as lovers, which is amazing in its own way. Apart from Bones, Jim’s never had that kind of deep connection to someone, and he cherishes the bond they have. Over the time he realized that he wants Spock around all the time, wants him there and close. Wants to laugh with him, tell him dirty jokes and grin at the face Spock makes at them, wants to cuddle on the sofa and maybe spend the weekend on an island somewhere. Wants to tell him his most embarrassing childhood stories, even talk about all the awful stuff that’s happened to him - but only when it’s dark and Spock won’t see his wet eyes.
Jim wants his Vulcan next to him, on the bridge, in the mess hall, in their quarters, in battle and in danger and in joy, and he’d really like to grow old with him. So, a good question, but also a very easy one.
“There’s this Vulcan word, I guess you know it? It’s… it’s a pretty good description for Spock and me, actually, for what we… well, for us. It’s t’hy’la.”
Uhura’s eyes widen. Jim squirms some more. He hates talking about this stuff. Suddenly Uhura wraps her arms around him and hugs him tight. Jim’s a little shocked, but also absurdly pleased. He squeezes back tentatively and pats her back a little. She pulls back and looks at him. Her eyes are wet and her smile’s shaky. Jeez, he really didn’t want to make her cry.
“Thank you, Jim.”
“Uh, you’re welcome?”
That was not quite what he expected. Maybe he should say something? Like that he could totally feel her boobs just now? Nah, that would ruin the mood, and also he knows when to shut up. Mostly.
Uhura steps back and suddenly the teary-eyed girl is gone and again the decorated Starfleet officer and also scary woman looks at him.
“But seriously, Kirk, if you break his heart I’ll break your legs. And maybe cut of Jim Junior. Are we clear?”
“Crystal.” He did not just squeak, dammit, and he will deny it until his dying breath, but cut off Captain Awesome? That’s just mean. Evil, evil woman.
“Good.” Uhura narrows her eyes at him again, swirls around and starts to walk off.
“Uhura?”
“Yes?”
“Thank you, too. I know how much Spock means to you and how much you mean to him, so, thank you. For, you know. Not hitting me and the other stuff.”
Jim flees, but not before he sees her softening eyes and the tender smile. Dammit. He needs to do something manly now, or everybody will think he’s a fourteen year old girl. The best option is clearly drinking with Bones, because his best friend doesn’t talk about feelings and shit like that, and he needs some rants and abuse right now. That’ll make him feel manly. Oh, and maybe some of that awesome kiwi liqueur.
Bones
They are on a trip to Vulcan to drop off some supplies. Milk run, really, no danger in sight, and yet his sickbay never has been fuller. Maybe it’s the free time without the threat of being blown up, but whenever the Enterprise is on a mission like that, Leonard has to deal with crazy hypochondriacs, weird fencing accidents (he still doesn’t believe Chekov just “fell” on the hilt of Sulu’s Katana) or strange sicknesses because Scotty played with the replicators again.
Leonard shoves a couple of hypos into Jim’s neck, just in case, sends him off to his shift and starts dealing with the anxious mob cluttering his sickbay. He leaves the “real” patients to Chapel, because he’s discovered his sunny demeanor and dulcet tones are very effective in dealing with the crazy people.
“Hello again, Ensign Perry. What seems to be the problem today?”
“Um. I have this, like, rash?” The ensign giggles nervously, twists a strand of hair around her finger and blushes.
“A rash, u-huh. And where would that rash be located?”
“Uh, like, down there? On my girl parts?”
“Hmm.” Bones takes out his scanner and waves it over the ensign. Bit dehydrated, low vitamins, probably doesn’t sleep as much as she should. And this particular reading, right there… He’s seen that before, right after Jim hooked up with that sleazy Devellian bartender. Marked his first treatment of then-Cadet Kirk, too, the first hypos shoved into Jim’s neck and the first pained complaints. Ah, the good old days.
“And when did it start, this rash?”
“Two days ago? Like in the morning?”
“Let me guess. You went shopping last shore leave, and bought yourself a tube of Devellian lube. Really, girl, you should know that most humans are allergic to the Devellian plant. No matter how sweet it smells, you really shouldn’t have used it.”
“Oh.” His patient bites her lips and looks down.
“Don’t worry, Ensign Perry. This crème here will clear it up in a few days. You should send your partner in, too, he might show the same reaction.”
“Oh, sure! Ross is, like, right outside, wait a second! ROSS!”
Leonard cringes. That girl sure can yell. A girl in an Ensign’s uniform - StMartin? StMiller? StMiranda? StMoose? No, StMatthew- bounces in and flops onto the bed next to Perry. What the? She looks at Leonard, looks at Perry and blushes a bright red - oh, so that’s her partner. The two Ensigns have a whispered conversation, Leonard can only make out a few words like “rash”, “crème”, “…and Gaila!” Leonard rolls his eyes and fidgets with the tube of crème in his hands.
“You about done here?” He hasn’t got all day, there are more patients awaiting his tender ministrations.
“Just ask him!” Ensign Perry giggles and shoves her partner. The other blushes and clamps her hands over her mouth. “No, you ask him!”
This makes Leonard frown. Huh?
“So, Dr. McCoy…” Perry looks at him through her lashes and gives him a coy smile, her voice sounds slightly breathless. “This crème… could you, like, show us how to put it on? You know, just to make sure we’re doing it right?”
StMatthew flutters her lashes at him and bites her lips, tongue darting briefly out to wet them. Leonard frowns some more. It’s just a crème, dammit, how can it be hard to understand how to put it on? He opens his mouth to tell them so, and closes it again, confused. Both Ensigns are fiery-red now, giggling and elbowing each other, hissing “Shh!” when this makes the other giggle even louder. What is going on with those two?
“Really, it’s quite simple. Just squeeze and rub, that’s all.”
Perry doubles over, clutching her stomach. StMatthew shrieks and falls from the bed. Both have tears in their eyes and are shaking with laughter. Leonard scoffs and throws the tube of crème on the biobed next to them. Let Chapel deal with those girls, he’s gonna look for someone who’s less crazy. He’s a doctor, dammit, not an entertainer.
His gaze falls on Spock, who’s just entered for his weekly vitamin shot. Perfect, he still has a bone to pick with that Vulcan. He gets Spock’s attention and jerks his head imperiously towards his office. Spock follows dutifully and closes the door behind them. Leonard settles behind his desk and just looks at the Vulcan. Spock lifts his eyebrow when he doesn’t offer him a chair. Leonard keeps silent and just watches the Commander, waits for the tiny signals - there. Spock’s hands move from his side to clasp behind his back and he shifts a fraction of an inch. Good. Leonard wants him to be uncomfortable.
“So. You and Jim.”
Spock raises his other eyebrow and gives a curt nod. “Indeed.”
“Can’t say I’m all that happy about it.”
“I have assumed as much.”
Of course he did, Leonard is kinda predictable that way. Spock is a good enough guy, but Leonard can’t forget this is the bastard that marooned his best friend on a monster-infested ice planet and choked him almost to death. He was okay with it when it seemed to be just sex, but later… Jim came to him, beaming and so proud and happy, and told him they were moving in together. Bones looked at his best friend, thought about Jim’s childhood, the awful things that happened to him, his constant need for attention, the way he seems almost touch-starved now and then, how he hides his brilliant mind and his insecurity behind the image of the brave, cocky, daring Captain and wondered if this was the right choice. If Spock was the right guy for his best friend, if he could give Jim the security and care and love he needs. He wondered and looked at Jim, and his best friend’s face started falling and he got fidgety and insecure, looked at him with wide, nervous eyes, and Leonard made his decision.
“Hell, kid, if you’re happy, I’m happy.”
Jim beamed and gave him a hug and ran away right afterwards, blushing furiously. Leonard felt kinda pleased and relieved, but also wary and quite a bit concerned. The kid deserves to be happy. And if this means Leonard has to look after him, take care of him, protect him from himself and from others, from getting his heart broken or getting hurt by this robot in front of him, he will. He is Leonard McCoy, and he will protect those who are his. He shakes his head and focuses on the hobgoblin.
“So. Got anything to tell me?”
Spock lifts his eyebrow. Leonard lifts his back. Two can play that game, Mister Vulcan.
“I would assume that the personal relationship between the Captain and I was no concern of yours, Doctor. However…”
Leonard straightens and draws a sharp breath. “Listen, you pointy-eared bastard, Jim’s my best friend, he’s family, dammit, and I very much have the right to know about…”
“You did not let me finish my sentence, Doctor. However, in regard of the deep connection between Jim and yourself I will agree to talk about these very private matters. I wish to assure you my intentions are quite honest. I neither desire to end our relationship, nor do I want to treat Jim like a, I believe the human expression would be ‘fling’? My… affection for Jim is quite deep.”
“Yeah.” Leonard grunts and settles back into his chair. The Vulcan seems sincere enough, so maybe this really is gonna work.
“Furthermore, I…” Spock hesitates and briefly looks to the floor. What? The Vulcan’s nervous? Leonard has never seen him like that, insecure and searching for words. “I find myself greatly desiring an even deeper bond. I was… I was hoping you might lend your expertise for this.”
And now he’s even stammering! Look at that Vulcan, all besotted and in love with the most human of all humans. Leonard can’t help but smile. He’s gonna tease the goblin forever.
“Sure. What d’you need my help for?”
“I desire to… to make our bond more formal, recognized in the eyes of my and your people.”
“What?! You wanna propose to Jim?!”
“Indeed. Although I have researched in Terran romantic novels and entertainment features, I am unsure how to proceed accordingly, since obtaining white doves or a marching band seems quite difficult while onboard this vessel.”
Leonard slumps back. Wow. He never thought this day would come. “Uh sure. I’ll help you. But I’m only doing it for Jim, just so you know.”
“Of course. Most appreciated, Doctor. Would you be willing to meet at a later time to discuss the possible scenarios for my proposal to the Captain?”
“No problem. Swing by here later after your shift ends or something. I’ll bring the booze, you bring the chocolate, because we seriously need to get drunk to talk about this stuff.”
“Very well. If that would be all? Nurse Chapel was waving her hypo quite ferociously earlier and I would not want to keep her waiting much longer.”
“Yeah, yeah, go. See you later.”
“Doctor.” Spock inclines his head and turns to leave.
“Oh, and Spock? Two more things.”
“Yes?”
“If I help you I get to be the best man.”
“Naturally. I do not think Jim would be satisfied with anybody else. And secondly?”
“Secondly, if you hurt him, I’ll kill you.”
Spock looks at him for a long moment, before he nods once, something like respect in his eyes. “I would expect nothing less, dear Doctor. Your dedication and desire to protect my mate is appreciated and welcome. You are his family, after all, which makes you a part of my family, as well. Should I hurt Jim in any way, deliberately or as the result of an accident, I will gladly subject myself to you and bear any punishment you choose.”
“…okay. As long as we’re clear.”
Spock leaves and Leonard stares at the ceiling. Family, huh. Considering how private Vulcans are and how little family Spock actually has left, this is quite… unexpected, yeah, but kinda amazing. Seems the hobgoblin really means it with Jim, and Leonard suddenly doesn’t mind their relationship that much. Doesn’t mean he won’t tease them both mercilessly, though. Leonard grins suddenly and starts thinking about in what horrible cheesy way he can make Spock propose to the kid.
Sarek
Meeting Spock’s father went… well, quite as expected. The ambassador obviously didn’t approve of Spock’s “liaison” with “this colorful human”, but kept his opinion mostly to himself. Maybe the older Spock’s decidedly un-Vulcan smile had something to do with that, but Jim’s not sure. Sarek just looked at him with displeased and derisive eyebrows and didn’t really talk to him. Jim didn’t mind really, because he had no idea what to tell the guy. He imagined, “I’m banging your son and it’s awesome” or “did you know Spock was a total bottom?” wouldn’t have gone over that well.
Over the time though, things get a little better, Sarek mostly uses his name now instead of “that human” and has almost stopped telling Spock about all the nice single Vulcan ladies that are just dying to meet him. And when Spock tells his father they want to marry, Sarek’s face gets a little soft and his eyes widen a little, and he tells them Amanda would have liked that. Spock looks very pleased, Jim grins so wide his face hurts, and Sarek doesn’t flinch all that much when Jim hugs him.
Sam and Winona Kirk
Jim hasn’t spoken to his mother since he enlisted in Starfleet. He’s sent his brother a message when it became clear the Spock, was, you know, the one, and he figures Sam told their mother. Sam sent a message back full of sarcasm and older brother talk, including helpful suggestions how Jim could hide his insanity until they got married and Spock was stuck with him. He finished with some manipulated pictures Jim in frilly pink dresses, because it would be obvious that his little brother was the girl in their relationship.
During their next shore leave Jim commed his brother for an hour-long conversation, full of yelling and snarking and making fun of each other, and Spock lifted his eyebrow at this obvious display of human madness, but sent warm feelings over their bond at Jim’s joy to see his brother again, even if only on a screen. Jim pulled him in, put an arm around his shoulders and presented him proudly to his brother’s inspection. Sam narrowed his eyes and tried to look intimidating, but Spock gazed back unmoved - outwardly, at least, Jim could feel the hint of nervousness his Vulcan would never admit to - and curled his fingers around Jim’s. Then, Sam nodded once, as if he’d come to a satisfying conclusion and yelled at Jim to not even think about naming their first-born after him. Jim yelled back, Spock lifted an eyebrow and left them to their bickering, trailing warm fingers along Jim’s neck and sending amusement and relief over their bond.
Two days later Jim gets a message from his mother. He fidgets and bites his knuckles a little, but finally he opens and reads it. It’s obvious Winona doesn’t know how to talk to him anymore, the message is stilted and full of superficialities. Awkward questions about his health and hobbies are followed by forcedly happy congratulations for his promotion and captaincy. Finally Winona writes she’s glad he’s found someone nice and, according to the pictures, handsome. She’s researched Spock a little and did Jim know that his partner was some kind of royalty? It’s obvious Spock is very well off, and she really hopes the Vulcan will stick around, even if this means no more grandchildren. Jim’s stomach twists unpleasantly and his eyes burn, he skims the rest of the text full of inane chatter about weather in Iowa and how Frank fixed the roof after the last storm, how Winona hopes Jim’ll come visit her and bring his handsome Vulcan so she can meet him, and there it is, the last line, which feels like a punch in the gut, and Jim shoves the PADD away and bangs his fist against the wall, before he muffles his sobs in the pillow.
“Your father would be proud.”
Jim is 28, he’s captain, he’s a hero, he has friends and a crew, he has a lover whom he’ll probably marry someday, he’s happy and content, but these five words still turn him into a wreck. A small boy with bruises and black eyes, a boy without a father, whose brother left him, whose mother didn’t see him beneath the shadow of George Kirk.
Spock finds him later, red eyed and shaking, curled into a ball on their bed. Jim’s a little ashamed that Spock sees him like this, but it’s drowned by his intense and fierce love for his Vulcan, who lies down behind him, presses close and runs soothing hands all over Jim’s body. He turns and hides his face under Spock’s chin, nestles close to that warm, sweet skin, and Spock holds him and strokes his neck and doesn’t ask.
Part 6 is here