A truth that's told with bad intent - Act Two, Scenes One to Four
Title: A truth that's told with bad intent - Act Two, Scenes One to Four
Author: nikki4noo
Beta: aquila-star and the lovely Anna
Word Count: 6,344
Rating: PG (some mild swearing) will increase in later Acts
Pairings/Characters: Kirk/McCoy, Joanna McCoy and various OCs
Summary: Bones finds himself in the predicament of being engaged, to THE Captain James T Kirk. How to get out of the situation? Well, consider one nine year old girl and a Starship Captain to the rescue. What could possibly go wrong?
Jim makes it to Georgia. The act begins...
Disclaimer: Not mine, dammit!
A/N: Written for this accidental/fake marriage prompt at space_married - (13) Could be Jocelyn/old med school friend/relative/etc but they start on how Jocelyn has moved on and is being BAMF without Bones so he gets fed up and says he's engaged. To a Starfleet captain! Hijinks ensue! I will be posting an update on this once a week. I did vary slightly from the original prompt but I hope the requester likes where the muse took me.
There is no well-defined boundary between honesty and dishonesty. The frontiers of one blend with the outside limits of the other, and he who attempts to tread this dangerous ground may be sometimes in one domain and sometimes in the other. ~ O. Henry (Rolling Stones, 1912)
Bones had to have been one of the world’s worst guests that evening. Joanna had to remind him numerous times that she had asked him a question, or that it was his turn in whatever game they were playing. At one stage he was sure it was cards, but they seemed to have magically turned into a board game and he had no idea when that happened or even what the game now was.
His gaze had kept being drawn towards the front windows, searching for a light from a car pulling into the driveway. When the time from the possible shuttle from Iowa to Atlanta and travel from the port to the house had passed, he started to relax. Jim obviously had used that impressive intelligence of his to rethink the situation.
He had started to finally pay attention to his daughter and the game when there was a flash of lights through the windows indicating that a car had pulled into the driveway. He stopped playing and just stared at the window, hearing a door shut, noting that the car was now backing out of the driveway and then the sensor lights came on and the doorbell rang.
“Daddy?” Joanna asked, noting the tenseness of her father and that he had now turned his focus towards the doorway that led to the entrance hall.
“Who is it?” she asked, but she never received an answer from her father, but she did get one soon enough anyway.
“Captain Kirk!” She exclaimed as standing in the doorway and smiling at her Daddy was the man who had saved the whole planet. She noted Devina hovering in the background, her dark eyes intent on the scene before her.
“Well, honey, I’m here…” Jim smirked.
“Jim, don’t call me honey!” Bones growled warningly at him.
“Okay sugar plum!” Jim said as he loped across the room towards where Bones was still sitting in the chair.
“Jim!” Bones told him off, but couldn’t express properly his feelings due to the audience around them, so had to settle for a glare as his only real form of communication.
Bones continued to glare at the man who was now leaning towards him, that patented smirk on his face was letting him know that Jim was up to mischief and even he wouldn’t be able to stop him.
“Jim,” Bones started to say.
“Is that anyway to greet me? I know a better way,” Jim said before lowering his voice so that only the two of them could hear. “Just play along Bones and stop glaring at me, or this will never be believed.” With that statement Jim fully morphed into the charade and pressed a kiss to Bones’ cheek.
Jim pulled away slowly, staring at Bones and willing him to play along. There was the slightest nod and acquiescence in those hazel eyes. At this tacit approval Jim plonked himself down on the arm of the chair, draped one arm along the back of the chair and smiled at Joanna who was sitting wide eyed and staring at the two men.
“Well, Joanna, seeing as you guessed our little secret, I just had to come back. We wanted you to spend some time with just you and your Dad, but now it seems lots of other people know and well, here I am. I hope you don’t mind?” Jim smiled at her.
“I’m so sorry about that Captain Kirk, but it’s totally okay for you to be here. It’s gonna be awesome!” She declared.
Jim laughed, “hear that Bones? Awesome!”
“Hmm, not too sure I want you two comparing notes. Devina, I apologize for the late notice, but is it possible to prepare a room for Captain Kirk?” Bones asked the housekeeper who was still hovering in the doorway.
“A room? I could just provide some extra pillows in your room,” Devina responded.
“A room is appropriate, Devina,” Bones said with a flicker of his eyes towards Joanna, reminding the housekeeper of the presence of his daughter. “In fact, the same one he had the other day should be suitable, if it isn’t too much trouble? Joanna, why don’t you go help Devina to set up the room for Jim and then get ready for bed? It's near enough to your bed time.”
“But Dad…” Joanna complained but stopped when she noted the single eyebrow raise and pointed glare from her father. “Okay,” she mumbled as she stood and followed Devina out the door.
“Don’t worry kid, he uses that look on me all the time. It’s deadly!” Jim commiserated with Joanna, who turned to smile at him before spinning back around and hurrying out the room.
“Heaven help me, Jim!” Bones said as he shoved at his best friend.
Jim was totally unprepared for the shove from Bones so he ended up sprawled on the floor, but his smile did not dim.
“Aw, c’mon Bones, this is gonna be fun!” Jim said.
“This isn’t a game, Jim,” Bones said as he ran his hands through his hair, messing up it's customary neatness.
Jim rolled up and over so he was on his haunches by the chair. His smile had disappeared to be replaced by an intent look.
“Trust me, Bones, I know that rumors aren’t fun and games. I’ve dealt with small town gossips. This is the best way; hopefully everyone comes out of it with no one being hurt. Especially Joanna. I’m just here to help as much as possible, Bones. It shouldn’t be too hard. We have always been close and I have no problems with you touching me and vice versa,” Jim said.
Bones snorted, “Jim, you don’t have problems with touching, period!”
“Hey, I’ll have you know I have my standards!” was the offended response.
All he received in reply was a roll of the eyes followed by an eyebrow raise.
Jim smiled widely at the standard response from his friend. They were back on same page it seemed. The pair of them ready to take on the universe, together.
He stood up and then flopped himself down on the couch that Joanna had just vacated. "Playing games Bones? Really?" He said as he poked at the board that was laid out on the glass coffee table.
"When you have a nine year old, then board games are the way to go. Actually scratch that, you and a nine year old, you would be trying to beat them at the latest holo game," Bones laughed at the put upon look on Jim's face.
"Yeah, I would," Jim agreed. "So what is the plan of action, and don't give me that this is a bad idea and won't work, the rumor is out there, time to minimize the damage. So who is the vindictive old biddy? We need to know everything about her, her friends, likely hang outs, how she spreads her rumors, what?" Jim stopped at the laughter that was emanating from his best friend.
Bones stood and walked over to the door, still laughing at the serious planning that Jim was putting into the problem, completely oblivious to the serious stare he was receiving from his best friend. Although he was not happy that Jim was dragged into the matter, he was glad that his friend was here, the man who put up with his grumbles and had never judged him. He started to speak as he headed back to the armchair, "I forgot you were top of your class in tactical analysis, you are treating this like a mission. Just can't wait to get back to the black, can you?"
"Well, yeah, but I remember well old biddies and their rumors, they are just like a little battlefield with mini purple haired generals, and hey! No forgetting my achievements old man!" Jim protested. "So who is the main problem? A problem shared is a problem solved..."
"We are done for if you are resorting to pithy sayings!" Bones snorted. "The vindictive old biddy is Joanna's Aunt Ida-Mae, well not really her aunt. She is cousin to JoJo's grandfather. That woman has the ear of most of Atlanta and pretty much it seems the story is out there if the phone calls this afternoon and evening were to go by."
"You said earlier that she had it in for you about four years ago, around the time of the divorce wasn't it?" Jim asked, fishing for information.
Bones stared at him, looking deep into the blue of Jim's eyes before responding, "yeah and the death of my Father. It wasn't a pleasant time and some things were said and done that I would rather forget."
Jim reached a hand forward to grasp at Bones, who moved back in the chair to avoid contact. Jim didn't let him, grabbing hold of his wrist and with a serious look said, "I'm sorry, man, I won't ask again but I needed to know. I am sorry about your father." He then let go and sat back in the couch again.
"So, we are going to need a nice public outing, aren't we? Some where the old biddy can't miss us in our engaged bliss," Jim continued.
"I was taking JoJo to the mall tomorrow," Bones conceded.
"Perfect!" Jim exclaimed, "so some public displays of affection should do it? Then you can spend some quality time with Joanna, without me being the third wheel."
"Devina might be an issue, Ida-Mae called her first and you heard that comment just before," Bones pointed out. "No hand holding, no calling me pet names and no kissing!"
"Geez, Bones, no pet names? I would never!" Jim protested his innocence with a look that was pure devilry. "It won't work without some sort of affection between us. I'm a touchy feely guy, you know that and you and I touch all the time."
"I'm not Jim, never have been so much. I may hate this town but they know me and if I start holding hands with you like some god damn lovesick teenager they will put me in a funny farm so fast you wouldn't believe," Bones told him.
"Okay, I understand. So, we kinda keep to our buddy buddy touching, just a bit more regular," Jim agreed. "Hey, can I pat you on the ass?"
"No!" Bones growled at him and pointed a finger.
"You really are a spoil sport," Jim complained. "Don't give me the finger of tyranny, I am not one of your staff. I am your Commanding Officer and beloved fiancee and you give it to me again, I will deal with it." The last statement was accompanied by a sly little smile.
Before Bones could respond, they both heard Joanna's footsteps on the staircase.
"Sounds like my room is ready, time for the game to start in earnest," Jim declared.
Joanna erupted into the room, ignoring the closed door which most people would have considered a strong hint to knock first and quietly enter second. She was already in her pyjama's, thus proving Devina's magical ability to deal with a recalcitrant nine year old.
"Captain Kirk," she declared, "your room is already now. I would appreciate it if you would help Daddy in putting me to bed?" She asked ever so politely, giving away that Devina probably had a hand in giving her some direction in how to ask, hands clasped behind her back as she fidgeted on the balls of her feet.
"Sure Joanna, it would be my pleasure," Jim smiled at her after a quick glance towards Bones. "But call me Jim, here I am just Jim, not a Captain. Deal?"
Joanna looked towards her father to seek his approval, at his small nod, she beamed at Jim and said, "deal!" before turning on her heels and sprinting out of the room and up towards her bedroom.
"Might have to allow you to stay. That has to be the easiest to get her to go to her room I have witnessed, ever," Bones said as he followed his daughter out of the room.
Jim quickened his pace so that he could fall into line next to his best friend. "What can I say, Bones, no one is resistant to the Kirk charm!"
"I remember plenty who were! Prime example would have to be Uhura, closely followed by that green-blooded computer she doesn't call her boyfriend," Bones responded.
"Ah spotted that did you?" Jim asked quietly. "I shouldn't be surprised, you always were the master at figuring out who was with who."
The two men had arrived at their destination to discover Joanna hastily rushing about with a pile of, what appeared to be drawing implements, in her hands. She was obviously trying to find a place to put them. She bent to peer under her bed.
"JoJo, I am sure they have a place to be, but under the bed it ain't. Put them away in their proper place." Bones ordered her, in a quiet voice unlike what he would normally use on the medical staff.
Joanna jumped guiltily, before rushing over to her desk and putting them away in one of the drawers.
"So help me, why she didn't just put them there in the first place?" He quietly asked Jim.
"Don't attempt to fathom the female mind, Bones. It is beyond our comprehension, but nice to see I can make her clean up her room too. See, I do have my uses, old man!" Jim said as he slapped Bones on the back of the shoulder as he sauntered into the room.
He looked around before deciding to sink down on the end of Joanna's bed. "So, Joanna, what's the score at bedtimes?"
Joanna turned to Jim and walked over to her bed before sitting down herself but only after rearranging her pillows so she could lean against the headboard. "Dad and I talk about the day and stuff and then I read for a bit before lights out."
"Your today has been full of surprises so I guess that would have to be a long talk then," Jim smiled at her. "How about a little change of plans? You ask me a question and I get to ask you one?"
Joanna's eyes lit up and her father, who had quietly entered the room to sit in the arm chair that was his normal seat each evening, watched both his daughter and best friend carefully. Jim, as far as he was aware didn't have a lot of experience with nine year old girls and he knew that his daughter did hero worship Jim, but he seemed to be dealing with her remarkably well. Not talking down to her at all, treating her like a mini adult and JoJo's hero worship seemed to be getting worse.
"Why ain't you staying in the same room as Daddy? Like Clay does with Mom?" Joanna asked.
"Joanna!" Bones warned her, ignoring the laughter from Jim.
"Dad, this is the 23rd Century! Sarah's mum's ain't married and they sleep in the same room." Joanna replied to him, maintaining her innocent look.
"See Bones, Sarah's mum's sleep together, why can't you and I?" Jim was giving Bones an almost identical look of innocence. Bones was not believing either look.
"Jim!" Bones warned him before turning to his daughter, "JoJo, that was a very personal question and I don't think you should have asked it of Jim."
"But Daddy, he said I could ask him a question, and if you and he are gonna get married then I want to make sure that you're gonna get along fine," Joanna tried to reason with her father.
Jim nodded his agreement with Joanna's reasoning, before adding his own thoughts. "Joanna, your Dad is right, that was pretty personal but I can understand you wanting to make sure about this..." Jim paused as he contemplated what to call the situation they found themselves in. His normally glib and quick tongue was blank, "situation, but to put you at ease, you do remember that your Dad and I did share a room for three years at the Academy. I'm used to having him around and telling me off. Right, my turn to ask a question now." He rubbed his hands together and sneaked a look out of the corner of his eyes at Joanna, seeing what her reaction was. She was biting her bottom lip and looking a bit worried.
"So, what's the silliest thing you have seen your Dad do?" Jim asked, sliding his gaze between father and daughter. Noting that the tenseness had left the daughter and now seemed to be settling on the father.
Joanna grinned widely, "You should have stayed and not gone to Iowa, then you would have seen him under the sprinkler this afternoon. I got him so wet!"
Jim leaned back onto the soft bed, bracing himself on his elbows as he smiled across at Bones, his body relaxed and open as the lounged on the bed. "Wet huh? Was he clothed?"
"That's two questions more! I get three questions now then," Joanna pointed out. "Then I will answer those."
"Answer them first and you can have the three questions in a row," Jim bargained.
There was a pause while hazel eyes looked into blue, then Joanna agreed, "Okay. Yep he was wet, soaking!" She said in glee, "he had on his swim trunks. It's warm here in summer. Don't it get warm in Iowa? Oh shoot, that's not one of my questions!"
Jim and Bones laughed at the consternation on her face, and the way her little nose screwed up in disgust at herself.
"Too late, Joanna, you asked it, it counts!" Jim pointed out to her.
Jim was sure she was contemplating poking her tongue out, but a glance at her father obviously made her second guess her actions. "Fine. What's the silliest thing you've seen my Daddy do and how far off the surface from Vulcan were you when you got beamed back onto the Enterprise?" Joanna asked as she tucked her knees up to her chest, wrapped her arms around her legs and rested that little pointed chin on her knees.
"I'll answer the last one first," Jim told her. "I was this far away." Jim lifted his hand up and indicated 5 centimeters with this first finger and his thumb.
Joanna's slightly tilted eyes widened as she released her legs and leaned back against the padded headboard. Her dark brunette hair flowing over her shoulders and in stark contrast to the pale pink checkerboard pattern.
"No way!" She breathed.
Jim smiled a little gentle smile at her. "Yes way," he responded.
"Totally?" Joanna asked, not quite believing what she had been told, but he was Captain Kirk so she wanted to believe him. She looked towards the one person she trusted not to lie to her, "Daddy?'
"Jim might like to exaggerate a bit," Bones told her, ignoring the protest from Jim. "But in this case I would trust him. If he says that is how far he was off, then that is how far he was off from hitting Vulcan dirt."
Jim raised one heavy eyebrow at Bones before turning towards Joanna with a sly little grin, "Now the silliest thing your Dad has done? I remember this one night, when I was feeling a little upset and your Dad decided to help cheer me up and took me out. Well there was this group of lovely ladies that were celebrating..." Jim never got to finish that story. Bones had leaped out of his chair and grabbed Jim by the arm, dragging him up from the bed, so that he was now standing flush against him.
"I think that is enough questions for tonight, JoJo. If you want time to read, we'll leave you now. Jim and I need a little chat before our bedtime as well. You have 15 minutes and then it's lights out." Bones had stepped towards his daughter so that he could lean down and place a kiss on her forehead. He did not let go of Jim while he kissed his daughter.
Joanna wisely held her tongue, but filed the information in her mind and she determined that one time when she was with Jim and her Daddy wasn't around she would make sure that he finished that story. If her Daddy didn't want her to know then she just knew she had to find out all about it. She watched as her Daddy dragged Jim out of her bedroom, Jim smiling as he talked quietly to him. Her Daddy's eyebrows seemed to be trying to meet just above his nose. Once the two men had left her room, she reached over to pick up her book from her side table, taking care to handle it carefully, smelling the paper and pushing down her quilt cover with her legs, she snuggled into her bed and opened the book to where she had last left it.
***
"Damn it Jim! Where is your sense? That is not a story you tell my daughter," Bones growled at him as he pulled him down the corridor towards where their rooms adjoined. Bones paused outside his own door, stepping up close to talk quietly to Jim. But Jim got in first.
"C'mon Bones, I know. I wasn't gonna tell her the proper story, give me some credit." Movement to the right caught his eye, Devina had exited out of 'his' room and paused as she looked towards the two of them. Jim raised both hands, he used his left to slide onto Bones' hip and squeezed to let Bones' know this was all part of the game. He tilted his head sideways and smiled slyly as he slid his right hand up Bones' arm. Turning their angry confrontation into what would look like an intimate encounter to anyone observing. "Well, honey? Oh, hi Devina. Is my bag still downstairs?"
Jim had noticed Devina's exit from his room and was doing his best to give Bones time to compose himself and to alert him to Devina's presence. Past experience had taught him that when Bones started to get well riled up towards him, he could ignore the Universe going to crap and just focus on where his anger was directed.
"Jim," Bones growled quietly at him.
Jim found his arm being gripped tight and then Bones' was pulling him into his room, away from the prying eyes and ears of Devina.
"Damn it, I told you, don't call me honey!" Bones hissed as he closed the door.
Jim's sly smile disappeared as he registered that Bones really had a strong dislike for the endearment. He watched as his friend stalked over towards his bed with his familiar long, loose limbed gait. Jim lent back against the wall, staring in silence at the tense back view of Bones. Jim noted the still scruplishny neat appearance of him, despite his 'casual' look, vastly different from the uniforms the pair of them had worn for the majority of the past three years. The dark, well fitting jeans and the check shirt, so neatly tucked in, was now marred by the mess Bones was making of his hair as he ran one hand through the thick locks.
The room was silent as Jim waited for Bones to speak. He wasn't going to push, he knew his friend too well. Bones sighed deeply and then turned to face him. He walked quietly back to Jim and in low tones started to speak, "look..." He paused as he gathered his thoughts, Jim still waited, not pushing or rushing him for an explanation. "Honey is what Jocelyn's family has always called her. So just don't call me it, okay? Especially not in this house and in front of Devina or any of her family."
Jim's brows tried to make one complete eyebrow as he frowned to consider this new information. "So it's like Blue then?" Jim asked.
Bones looked at him like he was mentally insane, which Jim basically registered as Bones' normal expression towards him. Then it seemed that Bones realized what or more specifically who Jim was referring to. "What on earth does that weird Australian have to do with it?"
"Gee Bones, it's obvious!" Jim told him, "Remember no one could figure out why he was called Blue, until Cupcake asked him. He was called Blue because he was a redhead, which just goes to show that we need to introduce Spock to an Australian, should prove hilarious. Anyway, nicknames being the opposite of what you are, so the ex obviously is not sweet, therefore they called her Honey!" Jim smiled at his own impressive leaps in logic.
Bones glared at him before a laugh escaped and he leaned in close, his eye's narrowing as he shook his head and smiled at Jim. "You are insane. No that isn't the reason, she was and still is at time all sweetness and light when she wants something, well, just never towards me. For which I thank the Lord I don't have to deal with that southern woman and her wiles."
"You still whispering because of Devina?" Jim asked him, changing the subject. Jim was intensely curious about Bones' relationship with his ex-wife, but there was still so much bitterness between the two and he couldn't believe when Bones jumped at the chance to spend two whole weeks in the house she now lived in with her new husband. The man with whom Jocelyn had cheated on Bones. But the first look Jim got at Joanna and he understood why.
Bones nodded at him, that he was aware that Devina was likely still loitering outside their door. Bones opened his eyes wide and glared at his erstwhile friend, he knew the twinkle in Jim's eyes well and whatever he was planning, Bones was not going to like it.
"Time to give her something to listen to then," Jim murmured and before Bones could protest, Jim had started moaning. Loud, guttural moans, interspersed with breathless comments, like his name, yes', more, lower, over and over.
Bones threw his hands up in the air and stalked back towards his bed and away from the infuriating man who was thoroughly enjoying his own solo little performance. He crossed his arms and pursed his lips at Jim's performance. Ignoring the way Jim had his head thrown backwards, strong neck exposed to the light, stubble thick under his jaw, eyes closed and obscene lips parted.
"You shameless hussy!" Bones admonished, forgetting to keep his own voice quiet.
Jim lowered his head back down and opened his eyes at Bones' words, they flickered towards the door and in the same louder tones announced, "your shameless hussy!"
Jim reached over to the door handle and slowly started to twist the knob. Not once losing eye contact with Bones. His friend had always been difficult to read, and now was no different. He blinked and looked away again as he opened the door and with a parting, "goodnight, dear," Jim slipped out of the room. Noting the flash of a dress as Devina rounded the corner of the hall.
His room, was no different to when he last saw it only a day ago. His bag had been placed neatly at the foot of the bed and he noted that Devina might have been an eavesdropper, but it appeared she hadn't searched his bag. He changed for sleep and as he pulled the covers back he heard Bones' door open. He stayed still as he watched to see if his door would open. In two minds as to stay where he was, clad only in his boxer shorts or to dive under the covers like some hesitant maiden fearing for their virtue. He mentally shook himself, that he had shared a room with the man for three years, they were comfortable around each other and Bones had seen him in an aroused state before. Mercifully for his state of mind, he watched as the shadows of Bones feet could be seen at the base of the door and it was obvious that Jim was the least of Bones' concerns. He was off to his daughter, Jim remembered that it was probably lights out time. So Jim crawled into the comfortable bed with smooth sheets, not scratchy, well worn ones like in the hotel room in St Louis.
Jim lay still, listening to the sounds of the house, like the whine of the cooling system, the wind rustling the leaves of the big elms outside and waiting to hear Bones walk back to his own room. When he heard Bones' door open and close he allowed his hands to sneak down and start to work on the little issue he had as a side effect from his earlier performance, so that he could hopefully get a decent nights sleep.
****
Leonard had one hand on the front door handle when he heard the clomping down the stairway. He recognized the gait and turned to find a sleepy looking Jim descending the stairs, clad in his running gear. He raised one eyebrow at his friend.
"It's morning and you go running, so I'm going running now too," Jim told him in explanation.
Bones deigned to comment and just opened the front door, gesturing for Jim to precede him out.
The two men set off in the early morning light, Jim allowing Bones to set the pace and the direction. They ran in comfortable silence, each avoiding eye contact with the other but listening intently to the breathing of their partner. Bones eventually slowed their pace and stopped under one of the many trees that lined the well tended street. The whole area spoke of well to do and money. Jim was starting to remember little hints from Bones on the rare occasions when he revealed anything about his past and was now twigging that Bones was not uncomfortable in these surroundings. That he seemed to fit a little too well.
"What?" Bones asked him looking down at himself to see if anything was amiss.
Jim laughed at him, "not that, idiot, just trying to figure out the best way to tell you that Devina is well and truly a spy for Ida-Mae."
Bones snorted and said, "well, I think you managed it just fine!"
Jim pushed Bones on the shoulder, resolutely not trying to memorize the feeling of Bones' bare, sweaty shoulder. It might be early morning, but the humidity was a bit of a killer. The Georgian heat was a bit of a killer in comparison to Iowa or San Fran.
"Asshole," Jim smiled at him. "Went downstairs late last night to get a drink and I overheard Devina on the phone to Ida-Mae, giving a very nice repeat performance of me to her. She does need to work a little bit on her moans, but overall I would have to give her a seven and a half."
"She had no idea you were there?" Bones frowned.
"Not a clue. You know that this means that we can't tell Joanna the truth? She seems quite fond of Devina and well, we can't ask her to lie. She won't understand it at all," Jim was all business as he stepped closer to Bones to talk quietly as he spied an older gentleman coming around the corner and being led by a very impressive dog. "Company coming," Jim said quietly.
Bones snuck a look around the trunk of the tree. "Shit, time to head back," he told Jim and before Jim could ask any further questions, he was off and running back the way they had come. It only took a few strides and Jim was keeping pace with him.
They entered the house to find Devina pottering around and so they both headed up to their own rooms to shower and get ready for the day.
***
Jim entered the kitchen to discover Bones and Joanna seated at the large kitchen table and a very hearty spread placed before them. Joanna was tucking into some brightly colored cereal that he was sure wasn't healthy at all. It was a measure of how much Bones loved his daughter that he was allowing her to eat it. Jim smiled to himself as he decided to test a little hypothesis. He reached for a bowl and the packet of cereal.
"Jim..." Bones warned.
"What?" Jim responded with an innocent expression as he liberally poured milk over the frosty bright green and purple flakes. "You can't be complaining about my food choices. Joanna seems to approve of it." Jim smiled broadly as he placed a large spoonful in his mouth. He kept smiling over the god awful taste of the cereal. Crunching loudly, as he was enjoying the flinch of the nerve just above Bones' left eye with each relishing smack. Both men continued to stare at each other, then Jim lent forward to reach for the jug of orange juice, bringing him closer to Bones. He needed something to counteract the bland taste of the cereal.
The two of them were interrupted from their staring competition by Joanna squeeing. There was no other way to describe the high pitched noise that was emanating from her. They both looked over to her in concern to find her pointing erratically in the direction of the tv screen. The screen was on and had been quietly playing in the background. All in the room had been mostly ignoring the local breakfast program. They were no longer ignoring it due to the vision of Jim, from one of his many official photographs that the Federation had released. Bones had teased him unmercifully about the photos. Jim could now tease back, if he wasn't in fear of Bones doing some particularly nasty things to parts of his anatomy he was inordinately fond of, because next to the picture of Jim in his dress uniform was a picture of Bones. A younger looking Bones in what appeared to be blue scrubs. The announcer was making some comment about being off the market and Jim looked towards Bones in horror. Realizing that they had just been outed on Atlantan morning television.
Bones was fully aware of the horror of the situation and had pushed his plate of toast and beans away so that he could hide his face in his hands. Jim quickly reached out to steady the cup of coffee that Bones had knocked with the plate.
"It's not that bad Bones," Jim coaxed.
"Not that bad?" Bones dropped his hands to glare at Jim. Lips pursed, he continued, "I just had my face smeared over every household in this damn town. We won't be able to go anywhere now without people pointing and staring. I hate this town."
Jim glanced over quickly to gauge Joanna's reaction. She was looking quite confused and a little sad. "Hey, Jo, why don't you get ready to go to the Mall? I just need a chat with your Dad. He really doesn't like attention, you know?"
Joanna, bit her lip before replying, her eyes more green due to the sheen of tears that Jim could see starting to develop. "Okay. I'm sorry Daddy, I didn't know you wanted it to be a secret."
Her quiet voice was enough to alert her father, who moved quickly out of his chair, brushing past Jim to collect his daughter in a right hug. He rested his chin on her head, before sliding down and pressing a kiss to her shiny hair. Inhaling the apple scent of her shampoo. "It's okay JoJo. I just don't like other people knowing my business. I should have said something to you first. You mean the world to me and well, lets go out and have some fun at the Mall, okay?"
Joanna tilted her head up and stared at her father. A serious look on her little face and Jim involuntarily inhaled at how alike the pair of them were in their expressions. For a child that had not seen much of her Dad for most of her young life, they seemed to have identical expressions to go with the majority of their looks. She adored her father and vice versa which gave Jim a feeling of tightness in his own chest that he did not want to dwell upon. Joanna then stepped out of Bones' embrace and left the room. Jim stepped up behind Bones, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"You know, men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing had happened," Jim told him.
Bones turned his head towards him, an incredulous look in his eyes. “Y’all quoting Churchill at me now?”
“Well I coulda gone with a lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to put its pants on but, I thought that left me a little too open to one of your normal bitches,” Jim responded with a straight face.
"Trust you to memorize quotes involving pants. How long you been saving that one up for?" Bones had fully turned towards Jim and put some space between their two bodies by leaning back onto the door jamb.
"You know I was thinking that Tuesdays should be pants free day on the Enterprise," Jim said seriously.
"Jim!" Bones said in horror. He wouldn't put it past Jim to attempt that as some sort of weird bonding for the crew.
"I’m kidding Bones, kidding. Jeez you are so easy to rile up!" Jim smirked at him as he walked out of the room, bumping shoulders as he passed, fully aware that his best friend was actually thinking that he might make that an order one day.
Act Two, Scenes Five to seven
Author: nikki4noo
Beta: aquila-star and the lovely Anna
Word Count: 6,344
Rating: PG (some mild swearing) will increase in later Acts
Pairings/Characters: Kirk/McCoy, Joanna McCoy and various OCs
Summary: Bones finds himself in the predicament of being engaged, to THE Captain James T Kirk. How to get out of the situation? Well, consider one nine year old girl and a Starship Captain to the rescue. What could possibly go wrong?
Jim makes it to Georgia. The act begins...
Disclaimer: Not mine, dammit!
A/N: Written for this accidental/fake marriage prompt at space_married - (13) Could be Jocelyn/old med school friend/relative/etc but they start on how Jocelyn has moved on and is being BAMF without Bones so he gets fed up and says he's engaged. To a Starfleet captain! Hijinks ensue! I will be posting an update on this once a week. I did vary slightly from the original prompt but I hope the requester likes where the muse took me.
There is no well-defined boundary between honesty and dishonesty. The frontiers of one blend with the outside limits of the other, and he who attempts to tread this dangerous ground may be sometimes in one domain and sometimes in the other. ~ O. Henry (Rolling Stones, 1912)
Bones had to have been one of the world’s worst guests that evening. Joanna had to remind him numerous times that she had asked him a question, or that it was his turn in whatever game they were playing. At one stage he was sure it was cards, but they seemed to have magically turned into a board game and he had no idea when that happened or even what the game now was.
His gaze had kept being drawn towards the front windows, searching for a light from a car pulling into the driveway. When the time from the possible shuttle from Iowa to Atlanta and travel from the port to the house had passed, he started to relax. Jim obviously had used that impressive intelligence of his to rethink the situation.
He had started to finally pay attention to his daughter and the game when there was a flash of lights through the windows indicating that a car had pulled into the driveway. He stopped playing and just stared at the window, hearing a door shut, noting that the car was now backing out of the driveway and then the sensor lights came on and the doorbell rang.
“Daddy?” Joanna asked, noting the tenseness of her father and that he had now turned his focus towards the doorway that led to the entrance hall.
“Who is it?” she asked, but she never received an answer from her father, but she did get one soon enough anyway.
“Captain Kirk!” She exclaimed as standing in the doorway and smiling at her Daddy was the man who had saved the whole planet. She noted Devina hovering in the background, her dark eyes intent on the scene before her.
“Well, honey, I’m here…” Jim smirked.
“Jim, don’t call me honey!” Bones growled warningly at him.
“Okay sugar plum!” Jim said as he loped across the room towards where Bones was still sitting in the chair.
“Jim!” Bones told him off, but couldn’t express properly his feelings due to the audience around them, so had to settle for a glare as his only real form of communication.
Bones continued to glare at the man who was now leaning towards him, that patented smirk on his face was letting him know that Jim was up to mischief and even he wouldn’t be able to stop him.
“Jim,” Bones started to say.
“Is that anyway to greet me? I know a better way,” Jim said before lowering his voice so that only the two of them could hear. “Just play along Bones and stop glaring at me, or this will never be believed.” With that statement Jim fully morphed into the charade and pressed a kiss to Bones’ cheek.
Jim pulled away slowly, staring at Bones and willing him to play along. There was the slightest nod and acquiescence in those hazel eyes. At this tacit approval Jim plonked himself down on the arm of the chair, draped one arm along the back of the chair and smiled at Joanna who was sitting wide eyed and staring at the two men.
“Well, Joanna, seeing as you guessed our little secret, I just had to come back. We wanted you to spend some time with just you and your Dad, but now it seems lots of other people know and well, here I am. I hope you don’t mind?” Jim smiled at her.
“I’m so sorry about that Captain Kirk, but it’s totally okay for you to be here. It’s gonna be awesome!” She declared.
Jim laughed, “hear that Bones? Awesome!”
“Hmm, not too sure I want you two comparing notes. Devina, I apologize for the late notice, but is it possible to prepare a room for Captain Kirk?” Bones asked the housekeeper who was still hovering in the doorway.
“A room? I could just provide some extra pillows in your room,” Devina responded.
“A room is appropriate, Devina,” Bones said with a flicker of his eyes towards Joanna, reminding the housekeeper of the presence of his daughter. “In fact, the same one he had the other day should be suitable, if it isn’t too much trouble? Joanna, why don’t you go help Devina to set up the room for Jim and then get ready for bed? It's near enough to your bed time.”
“But Dad…” Joanna complained but stopped when she noted the single eyebrow raise and pointed glare from her father. “Okay,” she mumbled as she stood and followed Devina out the door.
“Don’t worry kid, he uses that look on me all the time. It’s deadly!” Jim commiserated with Joanna, who turned to smile at him before spinning back around and hurrying out the room.
“Heaven help me, Jim!” Bones said as he shoved at his best friend.
Jim was totally unprepared for the shove from Bones so he ended up sprawled on the floor, but his smile did not dim.
“Aw, c’mon Bones, this is gonna be fun!” Jim said.
“This isn’t a game, Jim,” Bones said as he ran his hands through his hair, messing up it's customary neatness.
Jim rolled up and over so he was on his haunches by the chair. His smile had disappeared to be replaced by an intent look.
“Trust me, Bones, I know that rumors aren’t fun and games. I’ve dealt with small town gossips. This is the best way; hopefully everyone comes out of it with no one being hurt. Especially Joanna. I’m just here to help as much as possible, Bones. It shouldn’t be too hard. We have always been close and I have no problems with you touching me and vice versa,” Jim said.
Bones snorted, “Jim, you don’t have problems with touching, period!”
“Hey, I’ll have you know I have my standards!” was the offended response.
All he received in reply was a roll of the eyes followed by an eyebrow raise.
Jim smiled widely at the standard response from his friend. They were back on same page it seemed. The pair of them ready to take on the universe, together.
He stood up and then flopped himself down on the couch that Joanna had just vacated. "Playing games Bones? Really?" He said as he poked at the board that was laid out on the glass coffee table.
"When you have a nine year old, then board games are the way to go. Actually scratch that, you and a nine year old, you would be trying to beat them at the latest holo game," Bones laughed at the put upon look on Jim's face.
"Yeah, I would," Jim agreed. "So what is the plan of action, and don't give me that this is a bad idea and won't work, the rumor is out there, time to minimize the damage. So who is the vindictive old biddy? We need to know everything about her, her friends, likely hang outs, how she spreads her rumors, what?" Jim stopped at the laughter that was emanating from his best friend.
Bones stood and walked over to the door, still laughing at the serious planning that Jim was putting into the problem, completely oblivious to the serious stare he was receiving from his best friend. Although he was not happy that Jim was dragged into the matter, he was glad that his friend was here, the man who put up with his grumbles and had never judged him. He started to speak as he headed back to the armchair, "I forgot you were top of your class in tactical analysis, you are treating this like a mission. Just can't wait to get back to the black, can you?"
"Well, yeah, but I remember well old biddies and their rumors, they are just like a little battlefield with mini purple haired generals, and hey! No forgetting my achievements old man!" Jim protested. "So who is the main problem? A problem shared is a problem solved..."
"We are done for if you are resorting to pithy sayings!" Bones snorted. "The vindictive old biddy is Joanna's Aunt Ida-Mae, well not really her aunt. She is cousin to JoJo's grandfather. That woman has the ear of most of Atlanta and pretty much it seems the story is out there if the phone calls this afternoon and evening were to go by."
"You said earlier that she had it in for you about four years ago, around the time of the divorce wasn't it?" Jim asked, fishing for information.
Bones stared at him, looking deep into the blue of Jim's eyes before responding, "yeah and the death of my Father. It wasn't a pleasant time and some things were said and done that I would rather forget."
Jim reached a hand forward to grasp at Bones, who moved back in the chair to avoid contact. Jim didn't let him, grabbing hold of his wrist and with a serious look said, "I'm sorry, man, I won't ask again but I needed to know. I am sorry about your father." He then let go and sat back in the couch again.
"So, we are going to need a nice public outing, aren't we? Some where the old biddy can't miss us in our engaged bliss," Jim continued.
"I was taking JoJo to the mall tomorrow," Bones conceded.
"Perfect!" Jim exclaimed, "so some public displays of affection should do it? Then you can spend some quality time with Joanna, without me being the third wheel."
"Devina might be an issue, Ida-Mae called her first and you heard that comment just before," Bones pointed out. "No hand holding, no calling me pet names and no kissing!"
"Geez, Bones, no pet names? I would never!" Jim protested his innocence with a look that was pure devilry. "It won't work without some sort of affection between us. I'm a touchy feely guy, you know that and you and I touch all the time."
"I'm not Jim, never have been so much. I may hate this town but they know me and if I start holding hands with you like some god damn lovesick teenager they will put me in a funny farm so fast you wouldn't believe," Bones told him.
"Okay, I understand. So, we kinda keep to our buddy buddy touching, just a bit more regular," Jim agreed. "Hey, can I pat you on the ass?"
"No!" Bones growled at him and pointed a finger.
"You really are a spoil sport," Jim complained. "Don't give me the finger of tyranny, I am not one of your staff. I am your Commanding Officer and beloved fiancee and you give it to me again, I will deal with it." The last statement was accompanied by a sly little smile.
Before Bones could respond, they both heard Joanna's footsteps on the staircase.
"Sounds like my room is ready, time for the game to start in earnest," Jim declared.
Joanna erupted into the room, ignoring the closed door which most people would have considered a strong hint to knock first and quietly enter second. She was already in her pyjama's, thus proving Devina's magical ability to deal with a recalcitrant nine year old.
"Captain Kirk," she declared, "your room is already now. I would appreciate it if you would help Daddy in putting me to bed?" She asked ever so politely, giving away that Devina probably had a hand in giving her some direction in how to ask, hands clasped behind her back as she fidgeted on the balls of her feet.
"Sure Joanna, it would be my pleasure," Jim smiled at her after a quick glance towards Bones. "But call me Jim, here I am just Jim, not a Captain. Deal?"
Joanna looked towards her father to seek his approval, at his small nod, she beamed at Jim and said, "deal!" before turning on her heels and sprinting out of the room and up towards her bedroom.
"Might have to allow you to stay. That has to be the easiest to get her to go to her room I have witnessed, ever," Bones said as he followed his daughter out of the room.
Jim quickened his pace so that he could fall into line next to his best friend. "What can I say, Bones, no one is resistant to the Kirk charm!"
"I remember plenty who were! Prime example would have to be Uhura, closely followed by that green-blooded computer she doesn't call her boyfriend," Bones responded.
"Ah spotted that did you?" Jim asked quietly. "I shouldn't be surprised, you always were the master at figuring out who was with who."
The two men had arrived at their destination to discover Joanna hastily rushing about with a pile of, what appeared to be drawing implements, in her hands. She was obviously trying to find a place to put them. She bent to peer under her bed.
"JoJo, I am sure they have a place to be, but under the bed it ain't. Put them away in their proper place." Bones ordered her, in a quiet voice unlike what he would normally use on the medical staff.
Joanna jumped guiltily, before rushing over to her desk and putting them away in one of the drawers.
"So help me, why she didn't just put them there in the first place?" He quietly asked Jim.
"Don't attempt to fathom the female mind, Bones. It is beyond our comprehension, but nice to see I can make her clean up her room too. See, I do have my uses, old man!" Jim said as he slapped Bones on the back of the shoulder as he sauntered into the room.
He looked around before deciding to sink down on the end of Joanna's bed. "So, Joanna, what's the score at bedtimes?"
Joanna turned to Jim and walked over to her bed before sitting down herself but only after rearranging her pillows so she could lean against the headboard. "Dad and I talk about the day and stuff and then I read for a bit before lights out."
"Your today has been full of surprises so I guess that would have to be a long talk then," Jim smiled at her. "How about a little change of plans? You ask me a question and I get to ask you one?"
Joanna's eyes lit up and her father, who had quietly entered the room to sit in the arm chair that was his normal seat each evening, watched both his daughter and best friend carefully. Jim, as far as he was aware didn't have a lot of experience with nine year old girls and he knew that his daughter did hero worship Jim, but he seemed to be dealing with her remarkably well. Not talking down to her at all, treating her like a mini adult and JoJo's hero worship seemed to be getting worse.
"Why ain't you staying in the same room as Daddy? Like Clay does with Mom?" Joanna asked.
"Joanna!" Bones warned her, ignoring the laughter from Jim.
"Dad, this is the 23rd Century! Sarah's mum's ain't married and they sleep in the same room." Joanna replied to him, maintaining her innocent look.
"See Bones, Sarah's mum's sleep together, why can't you and I?" Jim was giving Bones an almost identical look of innocence. Bones was not believing either look.
"Jim!" Bones warned him before turning to his daughter, "JoJo, that was a very personal question and I don't think you should have asked it of Jim."
"But Daddy, he said I could ask him a question, and if you and he are gonna get married then I want to make sure that you're gonna get along fine," Joanna tried to reason with her father.
Jim nodded his agreement with Joanna's reasoning, before adding his own thoughts. "Joanna, your Dad is right, that was pretty personal but I can understand you wanting to make sure about this..." Jim paused as he contemplated what to call the situation they found themselves in. His normally glib and quick tongue was blank, "situation, but to put you at ease, you do remember that your Dad and I did share a room for three years at the Academy. I'm used to having him around and telling me off. Right, my turn to ask a question now." He rubbed his hands together and sneaked a look out of the corner of his eyes at Joanna, seeing what her reaction was. She was biting her bottom lip and looking a bit worried.
"So, what's the silliest thing you have seen your Dad do?" Jim asked, sliding his gaze between father and daughter. Noting that the tenseness had left the daughter and now seemed to be settling on the father.
Joanna grinned widely, "You should have stayed and not gone to Iowa, then you would have seen him under the sprinkler this afternoon. I got him so wet!"
Jim leaned back onto the soft bed, bracing himself on his elbows as he smiled across at Bones, his body relaxed and open as the lounged on the bed. "Wet huh? Was he clothed?"
"That's two questions more! I get three questions now then," Joanna pointed out. "Then I will answer those."
"Answer them first and you can have the three questions in a row," Jim bargained.
There was a pause while hazel eyes looked into blue, then Joanna agreed, "Okay. Yep he was wet, soaking!" She said in glee, "he had on his swim trunks. It's warm here in summer. Don't it get warm in Iowa? Oh shoot, that's not one of my questions!"
Jim and Bones laughed at the consternation on her face, and the way her little nose screwed up in disgust at herself.
"Too late, Joanna, you asked it, it counts!" Jim pointed out to her.
Jim was sure she was contemplating poking her tongue out, but a glance at her father obviously made her second guess her actions. "Fine. What's the silliest thing you've seen my Daddy do and how far off the surface from Vulcan were you when you got beamed back onto the Enterprise?" Joanna asked as she tucked her knees up to her chest, wrapped her arms around her legs and rested that little pointed chin on her knees.
"I'll answer the last one first," Jim told her. "I was this far away." Jim lifted his hand up and indicated 5 centimeters with this first finger and his thumb.
Joanna's slightly tilted eyes widened as she released her legs and leaned back against the padded headboard. Her dark brunette hair flowing over her shoulders and in stark contrast to the pale pink checkerboard pattern.
"No way!" She breathed.
Jim smiled a little gentle smile at her. "Yes way," he responded.
"Totally?" Joanna asked, not quite believing what she had been told, but he was Captain Kirk so she wanted to believe him. She looked towards the one person she trusted not to lie to her, "Daddy?'
"Jim might like to exaggerate a bit," Bones told her, ignoring the protest from Jim. "But in this case I would trust him. If he says that is how far he was off, then that is how far he was off from hitting Vulcan dirt."
Jim raised one heavy eyebrow at Bones before turning towards Joanna with a sly little grin, "Now the silliest thing your Dad has done? I remember this one night, when I was feeling a little upset and your Dad decided to help cheer me up and took me out. Well there was this group of lovely ladies that were celebrating..." Jim never got to finish that story. Bones had leaped out of his chair and grabbed Jim by the arm, dragging him up from the bed, so that he was now standing flush against him.
"I think that is enough questions for tonight, JoJo. If you want time to read, we'll leave you now. Jim and I need a little chat before our bedtime as well. You have 15 minutes and then it's lights out." Bones had stepped towards his daughter so that he could lean down and place a kiss on her forehead. He did not let go of Jim while he kissed his daughter.
Joanna wisely held her tongue, but filed the information in her mind and she determined that one time when she was with Jim and her Daddy wasn't around she would make sure that he finished that story. If her Daddy didn't want her to know then she just knew she had to find out all about it. She watched as her Daddy dragged Jim out of her bedroom, Jim smiling as he talked quietly to him. Her Daddy's eyebrows seemed to be trying to meet just above his nose. Once the two men had left her room, she reached over to pick up her book from her side table, taking care to handle it carefully, smelling the paper and pushing down her quilt cover with her legs, she snuggled into her bed and opened the book to where she had last left it.
***
"Damn it Jim! Where is your sense? That is not a story you tell my daughter," Bones growled at him as he pulled him down the corridor towards where their rooms adjoined. Bones paused outside his own door, stepping up close to talk quietly to Jim. But Jim got in first.
"C'mon Bones, I know. I wasn't gonna tell her the proper story, give me some credit." Movement to the right caught his eye, Devina had exited out of 'his' room and paused as she looked towards the two of them. Jim raised both hands, he used his left to slide onto Bones' hip and squeezed to let Bones' know this was all part of the game. He tilted his head sideways and smiled slyly as he slid his right hand up Bones' arm. Turning their angry confrontation into what would look like an intimate encounter to anyone observing. "Well, honey? Oh, hi Devina. Is my bag still downstairs?"
Jim had noticed Devina's exit from his room and was doing his best to give Bones time to compose himself and to alert him to Devina's presence. Past experience had taught him that when Bones started to get well riled up towards him, he could ignore the Universe going to crap and just focus on where his anger was directed.
"Jim," Bones growled quietly at him.
Jim found his arm being gripped tight and then Bones' was pulling him into his room, away from the prying eyes and ears of Devina.
"Damn it, I told you, don't call me honey!" Bones hissed as he closed the door.
Jim's sly smile disappeared as he registered that Bones really had a strong dislike for the endearment. He watched as his friend stalked over towards his bed with his familiar long, loose limbed gait. Jim lent back against the wall, staring in silence at the tense back view of Bones. Jim noted the still scruplishny neat appearance of him, despite his 'casual' look, vastly different from the uniforms the pair of them had worn for the majority of the past three years. The dark, well fitting jeans and the check shirt, so neatly tucked in, was now marred by the mess Bones was making of his hair as he ran one hand through the thick locks.
The room was silent as Jim waited for Bones to speak. He wasn't going to push, he knew his friend too well. Bones sighed deeply and then turned to face him. He walked quietly back to Jim and in low tones started to speak, "look..." He paused as he gathered his thoughts, Jim still waited, not pushing or rushing him for an explanation. "Honey is what Jocelyn's family has always called her. So just don't call me it, okay? Especially not in this house and in front of Devina or any of her family."
Jim's brows tried to make one complete eyebrow as he frowned to consider this new information. "So it's like Blue then?" Jim asked.
Bones looked at him like he was mentally insane, which Jim basically registered as Bones' normal expression towards him. Then it seemed that Bones realized what or more specifically who Jim was referring to. "What on earth does that weird Australian have to do with it?"
"Gee Bones, it's obvious!" Jim told him, "Remember no one could figure out why he was called Blue, until Cupcake asked him. He was called Blue because he was a redhead, which just goes to show that we need to introduce Spock to an Australian, should prove hilarious. Anyway, nicknames being the opposite of what you are, so the ex obviously is not sweet, therefore they called her Honey!" Jim smiled at his own impressive leaps in logic.
Bones glared at him before a laugh escaped and he leaned in close, his eye's narrowing as he shook his head and smiled at Jim. "You are insane. No that isn't the reason, she was and still is at time all sweetness and light when she wants something, well, just never towards me. For which I thank the Lord I don't have to deal with that southern woman and her wiles."
"You still whispering because of Devina?" Jim asked him, changing the subject. Jim was intensely curious about Bones' relationship with his ex-wife, but there was still so much bitterness between the two and he couldn't believe when Bones jumped at the chance to spend two whole weeks in the house she now lived in with her new husband. The man with whom Jocelyn had cheated on Bones. But the first look Jim got at Joanna and he understood why.
Bones nodded at him, that he was aware that Devina was likely still loitering outside their door. Bones opened his eyes wide and glared at his erstwhile friend, he knew the twinkle in Jim's eyes well and whatever he was planning, Bones was not going to like it.
"Time to give her something to listen to then," Jim murmured and before Bones could protest, Jim had started moaning. Loud, guttural moans, interspersed with breathless comments, like his name, yes', more, lower, over and over.
Bones threw his hands up in the air and stalked back towards his bed and away from the infuriating man who was thoroughly enjoying his own solo little performance. He crossed his arms and pursed his lips at Jim's performance. Ignoring the way Jim had his head thrown backwards, strong neck exposed to the light, stubble thick under his jaw, eyes closed and obscene lips parted.
"You shameless hussy!" Bones admonished, forgetting to keep his own voice quiet.
Jim lowered his head back down and opened his eyes at Bones' words, they flickered towards the door and in the same louder tones announced, "your shameless hussy!"
Jim reached over to the door handle and slowly started to twist the knob. Not once losing eye contact with Bones. His friend had always been difficult to read, and now was no different. He blinked and looked away again as he opened the door and with a parting, "goodnight, dear," Jim slipped out of the room. Noting the flash of a dress as Devina rounded the corner of the hall.
His room, was no different to when he last saw it only a day ago. His bag had been placed neatly at the foot of the bed and he noted that Devina might have been an eavesdropper, but it appeared she hadn't searched his bag. He changed for sleep and as he pulled the covers back he heard Bones' door open. He stayed still as he watched to see if his door would open. In two minds as to stay where he was, clad only in his boxer shorts or to dive under the covers like some hesitant maiden fearing for their virtue. He mentally shook himself, that he had shared a room with the man for three years, they were comfortable around each other and Bones had seen him in an aroused state before. Mercifully for his state of mind, he watched as the shadows of Bones feet could be seen at the base of the door and it was obvious that Jim was the least of Bones' concerns. He was off to his daughter, Jim remembered that it was probably lights out time. So Jim crawled into the comfortable bed with smooth sheets, not scratchy, well worn ones like in the hotel room in St Louis.
Jim lay still, listening to the sounds of the house, like the whine of the cooling system, the wind rustling the leaves of the big elms outside and waiting to hear Bones walk back to his own room. When he heard Bones' door open and close he allowed his hands to sneak down and start to work on the little issue he had as a side effect from his earlier performance, so that he could hopefully get a decent nights sleep.
****
Leonard had one hand on the front door handle when he heard the clomping down the stairway. He recognized the gait and turned to find a sleepy looking Jim descending the stairs, clad in his running gear. He raised one eyebrow at his friend.
"It's morning and you go running, so I'm going running now too," Jim told him in explanation.
Bones deigned to comment and just opened the front door, gesturing for Jim to precede him out.
The two men set off in the early morning light, Jim allowing Bones to set the pace and the direction. They ran in comfortable silence, each avoiding eye contact with the other but listening intently to the breathing of their partner. Bones eventually slowed their pace and stopped under one of the many trees that lined the well tended street. The whole area spoke of well to do and money. Jim was starting to remember little hints from Bones on the rare occasions when he revealed anything about his past and was now twigging that Bones was not uncomfortable in these surroundings. That he seemed to fit a little too well.
"What?" Bones asked him looking down at himself to see if anything was amiss.
Jim laughed at him, "not that, idiot, just trying to figure out the best way to tell you that Devina is well and truly a spy for Ida-Mae."
Bones snorted and said, "well, I think you managed it just fine!"
Jim pushed Bones on the shoulder, resolutely not trying to memorize the feeling of Bones' bare, sweaty shoulder. It might be early morning, but the humidity was a bit of a killer. The Georgian heat was a bit of a killer in comparison to Iowa or San Fran.
"Asshole," Jim smiled at him. "Went downstairs late last night to get a drink and I overheard Devina on the phone to Ida-Mae, giving a very nice repeat performance of me to her. She does need to work a little bit on her moans, but overall I would have to give her a seven and a half."
"She had no idea you were there?" Bones frowned.
"Not a clue. You know that this means that we can't tell Joanna the truth? She seems quite fond of Devina and well, we can't ask her to lie. She won't understand it at all," Jim was all business as he stepped closer to Bones to talk quietly as he spied an older gentleman coming around the corner and being led by a very impressive dog. "Company coming," Jim said quietly.
Bones snuck a look around the trunk of the tree. "Shit, time to head back," he told Jim and before Jim could ask any further questions, he was off and running back the way they had come. It only took a few strides and Jim was keeping pace with him.
They entered the house to find Devina pottering around and so they both headed up to their own rooms to shower and get ready for the day.
***
Jim entered the kitchen to discover Bones and Joanna seated at the large kitchen table and a very hearty spread placed before them. Joanna was tucking into some brightly colored cereal that he was sure wasn't healthy at all. It was a measure of how much Bones loved his daughter that he was allowing her to eat it. Jim smiled to himself as he decided to test a little hypothesis. He reached for a bowl and the packet of cereal.
"Jim..." Bones warned.
"What?" Jim responded with an innocent expression as he liberally poured milk over the frosty bright green and purple flakes. "You can't be complaining about my food choices. Joanna seems to approve of it." Jim smiled broadly as he placed a large spoonful in his mouth. He kept smiling over the god awful taste of the cereal. Crunching loudly, as he was enjoying the flinch of the nerve just above Bones' left eye with each relishing smack. Both men continued to stare at each other, then Jim lent forward to reach for the jug of orange juice, bringing him closer to Bones. He needed something to counteract the bland taste of the cereal.
The two of them were interrupted from their staring competition by Joanna squeeing. There was no other way to describe the high pitched noise that was emanating from her. They both looked over to her in concern to find her pointing erratically in the direction of the tv screen. The screen was on and had been quietly playing in the background. All in the room had been mostly ignoring the local breakfast program. They were no longer ignoring it due to the vision of Jim, from one of his many official photographs that the Federation had released. Bones had teased him unmercifully about the photos. Jim could now tease back, if he wasn't in fear of Bones doing some particularly nasty things to parts of his anatomy he was inordinately fond of, because next to the picture of Jim in his dress uniform was a picture of Bones. A younger looking Bones in what appeared to be blue scrubs. The announcer was making some comment about being off the market and Jim looked towards Bones in horror. Realizing that they had just been outed on Atlantan morning television.
Bones was fully aware of the horror of the situation and had pushed his plate of toast and beans away so that he could hide his face in his hands. Jim quickly reached out to steady the cup of coffee that Bones had knocked with the plate.
"It's not that bad Bones," Jim coaxed.
"Not that bad?" Bones dropped his hands to glare at Jim. Lips pursed, he continued, "I just had my face smeared over every household in this damn town. We won't be able to go anywhere now without people pointing and staring. I hate this town."
Jim glanced over quickly to gauge Joanna's reaction. She was looking quite confused and a little sad. "Hey, Jo, why don't you get ready to go to the Mall? I just need a chat with your Dad. He really doesn't like attention, you know?"
Joanna, bit her lip before replying, her eyes more green due to the sheen of tears that Jim could see starting to develop. "Okay. I'm sorry Daddy, I didn't know you wanted it to be a secret."
Her quiet voice was enough to alert her father, who moved quickly out of his chair, brushing past Jim to collect his daughter in a right hug. He rested his chin on her head, before sliding down and pressing a kiss to her shiny hair. Inhaling the apple scent of her shampoo. "It's okay JoJo. I just don't like other people knowing my business. I should have said something to you first. You mean the world to me and well, lets go out and have some fun at the Mall, okay?"
Joanna tilted her head up and stared at her father. A serious look on her little face and Jim involuntarily inhaled at how alike the pair of them were in their expressions. For a child that had not seen much of her Dad for most of her young life, they seemed to have identical expressions to go with the majority of their looks. She adored her father and vice versa which gave Jim a feeling of tightness in his own chest that he did not want to dwell upon. Joanna then stepped out of Bones' embrace and left the room. Jim stepped up behind Bones, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"You know, men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing had happened," Jim told him.
Bones turned his head towards him, an incredulous look in his eyes. “Y’all quoting Churchill at me now?”
“Well I coulda gone with a lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to put its pants on but, I thought that left me a little too open to one of your normal bitches,” Jim responded with a straight face.
"Trust you to memorize quotes involving pants. How long you been saving that one up for?" Bones had fully turned towards Jim and put some space between their two bodies by leaning back onto the door jamb.
"You know I was thinking that Tuesdays should be pants free day on the Enterprise," Jim said seriously.
"Jim!" Bones said in horror. He wouldn't put it past Jim to attempt that as some sort of weird bonding for the crew.
"I’m kidding Bones, kidding. Jeez you are so easy to rile up!" Jim smirked at him as he walked out of the room, bumping shoulders as he passed, fully aware that his best friend was actually thinking that he might make that an order one day.
Act Two, Scenes Five to seven