A/N: As usual, I didn't manage to get this done in only two chapters, so the last one should be up in… the near future, I promise. Thank you all for reading, and enjoy!


Hikaru sighed, seeing Yeoman Rand talking with Nurse Chapel in the hallway. He knew he was acting like a child, just because Chekov was interested in Uhura didn't meant he had to trade names again just to avoid any awkwardness between them. It wasn't like Chekov actually knew he liked him, he could act like a friend and just give him a present as such. However, Hikaru doubted he could contain his sadness when he got to see Chekov being all cozy with Uhura. He wondered how Mister Spock felt about this development. He didn't seem to care if Uhura wanted Chekov, perhaps the Vulcan had moved on from his feelings and was happy for his friend.

And Hikaru should do the same if he wanted to be a good friend to Chekov.

"Keenser made me give him oil for two months, but I finally got him," Yeoman Rand said happily.

"Well, I'll have the worst Valentine's ever," Nurse Chapel complained.

"Oh, he's not that bad, Christine. Deep down he must be a softie."

"I'm not sure if I want to discover his soft side, Janice." Chapel shook her head. "Oh, Sulu… we didn't see you there."

"I'm sorry; I didn't mean to intrude… I wanted to see if I could talk with Yeoman Rand for a minute."

"I'm done anyway," Christine smiled. "She's all yours. You are helping me whether you like it or not, Janice. My room, we'll have dinner and you better bring your best ideas."

"Yeah, yeah," Yeoman Rand waved her hand as they watched Nurse Chapel walk away. "That woman acts more like Doctor McCoy with each passing day. What can I do for you, Sulu?"

"Uh… I wanted to see if you want to exchange names with me for the Secret Valentine." Hikaru felt a small pang in his chest.

"Sorry, can't do. I had to bribe Keenser so he'd give me the one I wanted. I won't trade him after I spent the last two days figuring out who had him," Rand said with sympathy.

"I see… at least someone is taking advantage of this day… Scotty is going to be a very happy man."

"Scotty?" Yeoman Rand frowned. "I don't like Scotty. Why do you people keep saying that?"

"He recited you a poem… right? That's what the other yeomen said."

"I was helping him! He was rehearsing for when he… okay, it's not my place to tell, but he isn't interested in me, nor am I in him. I've got my eyes on a very different type…"

"Oh…" Hikaru was curious. Rand and Scotty would have made a good couple.

"In fact, I think you can help me. I have Riley, and he's your age, right?"

"Riley? Isn't he a little young for you?" Hikaru put his hand on his mouth quickly; he didn't mean to sound rude, he was just surprised.

"Age is just a silly number. You should know, Chekov isn't even legal yet and you like him," she said, winking at him.

Was everyone aware of his crush on Chekov? This was going to be more embarrassing than he thought.

"T-that's not… he's just my friend!" Why did Hikaru sound so nervous about this? He was Chekov's friend; his feelings were irrelevant at this point.

"Relax, I don't care. I think you two look good together, you have my approval. Now, since I know you and Riley train together, could you do me a favor? Could you please investigate about what he would like for Valentine's Day?"

"I'm not really close to Riley…" It was true, he and Riley only trained, they didn't chat or anything.

"You're guys, I know you only talk about manly things, but I don't want to mess up this… please, Sulu?" Yeoman Rand used her best sad face. He couldn't say no to her anyway. The Captain was right; Rand was the most persuasive person on the ship.

"I'll see what I can do," Hikaru agreed.

"Excellent, thank you, Sulu!" Yeoman Rand beamed.

Hikaru groaned. He was helping everyone around him get the one they wanted, but he was the one who would be all alone on Valentine's Day; this sucked.


Scotty was cheerful about his plans for Valentine's Day. He'd recited his poem to Janice yesterday and she said he was ready to finally tell Nyota how he felt. The Captain was right, Keenser was the worst audience ever; at least Rand gave him some feedback about his performance and was helpful about the dinner.

As he sat down on the mess hall to have a quiet dinner (someone had given Keenser an entire can of oil. That was similar to alcohol for him, and the last thing Scotty needed was dealing with Keenser while he shouted that he loved everyone on the Enterprise) he noticed the yeomen table gossiping.

"Sulu is out of the betting pool," announced one of the yeomen… the brunette. Scotty wasn't too familiar with the yeomen; he only knew Rand and Millers.

"Oh, that's not fair. There's no out; what's the point of doing a betting pool if everyone is going to back out at the last moment?"

"Why do you think he wants to get out of the bet?"

"It looks like he thinks Nyota and Commander Spock aren't getting back together on Valentine's Day."

Scotty was about to bite into his sandwich when he heard this. What?

"That can't be, I'm sure they are going to get back together, perhaps even sooner."

"What do you mean?"

"I saw Nyota entering Commander Spock's room last night…"

"No! Really?"

"I'm sure. I saw her in the hallway and she told me she was waiting for Commander Spock. A few minutes later Commander Spock came and let her in. I'm telling you, it's love."

"Sulu isn't sure, he wants out."

"Well, he can't be out. He's going to win anyway, he'll be grateful."

Scotty stood up, leaving the mess hall without a second glance. He hadn't spent time in the mess hall to hear the latest gossip… and now he regretted that. There was even a betting pool, and from what he understood, Nyota and Mister Spock getting back together was a fact.

He'd never thought that while he was planning the most romantic declaration of love, Mister Spock could win back Nyota's heart.


Nyota was confused and, let's face it, angry as well. She'd just heard that Scotty had recited a poem to Janice yesterday and now all the crew thought Scotty was in love with her. She was looking for Janice and she had better have a damn good explanation for this; she knew Nyota liked Scotty and that she was making a move on Valentine's Day, how could she stab her in the back and take her man? Janice was her friend, surely it was a misunderstanding.

It had better be ,anyway; if Rand had decided she was attracted to Scotty after hearing Nyota list all the Scotsman's best qualities, she would not give up without a fight. She'd had Spock, which proved that she got what she wanted, and she loved Scotty; wait… love?

"Am I really in love with him?" Nyota asked herself out loud.

A small cry made Nyota turn around, and she noticed Sulu looking rather pale and shocked.

"Sulu! I didn't see you there… are you okay?"

"Lieutenant Uhura…" Sulu said, still in shock. "I couldn't help overhearing… are you in love with him?"

"You know who I meant?" Nyota frowned. She had only told Spock and the girls about her intentions with Scotty, how did Sulu find out about it? Oh, right, Janice; that back-stabber.

"I… I…" Sulu blushed. "It's good… he deserves to be loved."

Why did Sulu sound so pained?

"I know, he's the one of the finest guys I've ever met; noble and kind… and a little crazy."

Sulu smiled weakly, murmuring "I know", and Nyota finally understood why Sulu looked so defeated. He had the same face she had when she realized that Spock no longer loved her, if he ever had; he had the same look she had when she noticed Spock's devotion to Jim.

Sulu was in love with Scotty. Nyota felt terrible.

"I'm sorry Sulu…" She put her hand on his arm, trying to comfort him. "I know it must be hard for you…"

"You know?" Sulu looked at her sadly.

"I just figured it out. I wish I could give you some hope, but to be honest, I'll fight for him if I have to."

"You don't have to fight for him," Sulu said resignedly. "You already have him."

It broke Nyota's heart to know that she was hurting a friend; sometimes in love you lose everything.

"I'm sure you'll find someone else, Sulu. You deserve to be loved."

"I sure hope so," Sulu tried to smile. "I would hate to be the only single person aboard this ship; that would be awkward."

"Oh, don't worry, we can set you up on a blind date… how does Keenser sound?" she joked, trying to ease the tension.

"The point of a blind date is not knowing who the other person is," Sulu smirked, "and Keenser has a love-hate relationship with oil, I couldn't meddle."

"Oh, maybe if we cover you with oil, Keenser would reconsider." Nyota winked at Sulu.

"I think you will want the person I got for the exchange," Sulu sighed, apparently trying to change the subject.

"What?" Nyota was confused.

"Yes, I got…"

"Sulu, ready to train?"

Kevin Riley walked towards them with a big smile.

"Go ahead," Nyota smiled. "I'll catch up with you later."

Nyota left them, and as she was walking away she wondered what Sulu meant when he said she was interested in the person he got as a Secret Valentine. She already had Scotty; she was clueless about what he was implying. Well, she would probably find out about it later.


Jim was carefully watching the chat between Uhura and Sulu. At one point she put her hand on Sulu's arm in a reassuring way; could it be that Sulu was depressed or feeling down about something? Maybe he didn't get Chekov for the exchange; Jim should help him and find out who had Chekov and make them trade with Sulu… The party was two days away, he wouldn't have time to do anything. Sulu would have to settle for Chekov giving him a present.

He was still considering what the best way to approach the subject of Spock and the gift with Uhura was. Uhura, you're smoking hot… can I nail your ex?... No, too forward, and Uhura always got pissed when Jim said she was hot. Uhura, do you believe in soul mates? I think I found mine… in you ex-boyfriend. I didn't plan it, I swear, it just happened… so… can you give me tips on how to woo him?... No, that wouldn't work either, Bones forbade the use of the word 'woo'. Uhura, I want to hit that… No, she could misinterpret and think he meant her instead of Spock. Uhura… I love Spock… how about you tell me what I need to do to get him in my bed? That sounded a little bit better, in comparison to the others. Uhura, I would like to…

"Good evening, Jim."

"Wahhhhh!" Jim turned around with a jump, seeing Spock standing right behind him. On any other occasion, that would give Jim a thrill. Now it was scary. "Spock! I've told you not to do that!"

"You requested that I called you by your given name, Captain," Spock said deadpan.

"Not that; the appearing thing! You know it freaks me out when you emerge from who the hells knows where and act like it's something normal." Jim tried to keep his voice low; he was spying on Uhura, he didn't need her to see him shouting at her ex-boyfriend.

"I have been standing next to you for two minutes and thirty five seconds… I would have thought you realized I was here since you did not oppose my presence."

"Whatever, next time just tell me you're here and I won't yell like a girl."

"You did not yell like a young female, Jim; I can assure you, your reaction was normal and does not cast doubt on your strong sense of self-preservation that Doctor McCoy sometimes seems fond of mocking."

"Are you telling me that I'm still manly even when I yelled?" Jim frowned. That was really sweet in a Spock-ish way.

"Affirmative. May I ask why you are observing Lieutenants Uhura and Sulu talking in the hallway?"

"Oh… well…" Jim turned his attention back to the pair; they were laughing. "I want to talk to Uhura but she's always busy. Maybe I should ambush her in her room or something. At least there I can trap her enough to…" Jim noticed the small glare sent in his direction. "Ahm… not that I'll ambush her; I know it's against the rules."

That didn't make the glare any less… intimidating. Jim knew he had a big mouth. For a moment he forgot he was talking to Spock and he was about to spill all his evil plans.

"Why do you want to talk to the Lieutenant? Do you need assistance? I am probably more qualified than the Lieutenant in whatever task or difficulty you are faced with."

This was weird; Spock was talking with that clipped tone he only used when Bones was making fun of him.

"I know Spock, you're awesome, however I think only Uhura can assist me in this 'task' … wait, she's walking away… I gotta go! See you around, Spock!"

Jim touched Spock's arm playfully before walking away quickly, passing next to Riley and Sulu as they walked in the opposite direction. Jim was so focused on rushing after Uhura that he missed Spock saying "I deduce that this means you will not be available for chess tonight?"


Hikaru was distracted. Uhura was in love with Chekov, Chekov was in love with Uhura… and he was somehow out of the equation. Even though he was friends with Chekov, it was obvious that as soon as he realized that Uhura wanted a relationship with him, Hikaru would be left out. He knew what it was like to be the third wheel. He hated it, in fact. He refused to be the third wheel again, maybe he should consider dating Keenser… Physical attraction wasn't everything, even though he loved Chekov's curls and blue eyes and…

"Offff." Hikaru fell after receiving a strong punch to the stomach.

"I'm sorry!" Riley ran to Hikaru, worried. "I thought you would dodge, we've done this tons of times, Sulu."

"I was distracted," he said, wheezing.

"Are you okay?"

"I need to rest for a little while." Hikaru rubbed his stomach. That was a good punch.

"Do you want me to take you to Doctor McCoy?" Riley knelt next to Hikaru.

"No, no. I'm fine, just give me a minute."

"All right. You seem distracted… is everything okay?"

Hikaru saw as an opportunity to see what Riley wanted for a present; he'd promised Rand, and he could use the distraction.

"Riley, what would you like to get from your Secret Valentine?"

Riley frowned, like he was confused.

"Why?"

"Well… I don't know, it's a romantic date… maybe you can get something nice… from someone nice." Hikaru smiled, knowing he had made little sense. He was out of breath, he'd been punched in the stomach, hard, and above all he had an unrequited love. It was understandable that he wasn't thinking clearly.

"Uhm…" Riley suddenly went wide-eyed. "Ahm… I have to go, Sulu. Do you want me to take you to Sickbay?"

"Nah, I'm fine. But we haven't really trained that much. I promise I won't let you go that easily next time." Hikaru maintained the smile while Riley blushed; odd.

"Ah… eh… okay… I should go."

Before Sulu could say anything else, Riley got up quickly and bolted from the training room. This Secret Valentine was making everyone crazier by the minute.


Spock meditated for a large portion of the night and then slept his required five hours. He got up, dressed in the mandatory attire and walked out of his room. He had come to the conclusion that he needed answers to his unsolved queries, and the only reliable source was…

"What?" Doctor McCoy opened his door angrily, looking rather untidy.

"Good morning, Doctor McCoy… I hope I did not disturb you."

"Spock, it's 6 a.m.! What the hell are you thinking?"

"Vulcans require less sleep than humans," he explained before McCoy got obnoxious.

"I'm human, you damn hobgoblin! I need my beauty sleep!" McCoy bit out. Apparently it was too late to prevent the unpleasantness.

"I do not see how sleep would improve your physical appearance," Spock said neutrally.

"What do you want?" McCoy glared.

"I was wondering if I could ask you something."

"You woke me up at 6 a.m. to 'ask me something'? This better be good."

Since McCoy did not open the door and just stood there, watching Spock, he tilted his head.

"Well?" McCoy said after a prolonged silence.

"It is a personal matter."

"This concerns Jim, then." McCoy yawned. "Fine, come in, but I don't want to hear a peep from you about my room, is that clear?"

"I just suggested sanitary methods when you let me in last time. It was to improve your quality of life; you could trip over one of your disregarded clothes and break your neck. You are a doctor, I am sure you have heard about domestic accidents that could be prevented by maintaining an organized room." McCoy may be dreadful, but Spock did not wish for the doctor to be harmed... now. His thoughts about that subject before he came to understand the nature of Jim and McCoy's friendship were a different subject.

"I said not a peep." McCoy opened the door and Spock had to contain himself from saying something. McCoy had not done anything to improve this chaos, if anything he was even messier than Spock remembered. "Sit."

"I prefer to stand, thank you." Spock took a deep breath. Talking with McCoy was never easy.

"Fine then." McCoy lay down on the bed, looking at Spock with bored contemplation. "What's up?"

He had to do it; he had meditated about this subject and concluded that this was the best course of action. Glancing at McCoy, who was scratching his stomach and yawing, Spock wondered if for the first time his conclusions were wrong.

"If you aren't talking, then get out. I can still sleep for a few hours," McCoy rushed him.

"Jim felt sexual attraction for Lieutenant Uhura, correct?" Spock asked bluntly.

"Yes, he wanted to sleep with her, so what?"

"I was wondering if that could be still the case."

McCoy stared at Spock with disbelief.

"You think Jim wants to sleep with Uhura?" McCoy frowned. "Did he say something to you?"

"He did not; however I have noticed Jim observing the Lieutenant quite often. Humans present this behavior when they are sexually attracted to other humans."

"Well… yes and no. Sure, if we see something we like, we stare; that doesn't mean we want to sleep with them. Besides, if that's your logic, then Jim would want to sleep with half the crew. He's the Captain, a little observing is expected."

"I suppose you have a somewhat logical point. Although if Jim felt sexual desire for the Lieutenant, it is understandable that he still holds that craving since they spend a great portion of their time together."

"He also shares 'a great portion of his time' with you." McCoy did the air quotes. "Maybe he wants to have sex with you as well."

"'As well' implies that he still desires the Lieutenant." Spock lifted an eyebrow. McCoy was trying to bait him; he knew he should not take his comments seriously.

"Look Spock, Jim doesn't like Uhura that way, okay? It's too damn early to be discussing our Captain's sex life; if what you want to hear is that he's in love with you… I can't tell you that, but I know that he's interested in you in a more personal way."

"How so?" Spock was interested. This could be what he needed for his declaration.

"I don't gossip…" Spock raised his eyebrow again. "… about my friend. And you're the one planning the big proposal."

"It would help if I knew that Jim was not interested in another person romantically."

"He's not."

"Are you certain?"

"No, Spock, he is actually in love with someone else; I just want you to be annoying and wake me up at 6 a.m.; it's so damn fun that I couldn't bear to miss it."

"Is that sarcasm?"

"You have two seconds to get out or I'll throw the first thing I can reach at you."

"I assume that you are…"

Spock ducked an undershirt and took the cue. He left McCoy's room feeling less confused; he concluded that McCoy was not a morning person.


Pavel entered the mess hall knowing that Miss Uhura wouldn't be there. He had seen her and the Captain chatting in the recreation room; they seemed very invested in their talk, he could probably eat his breakfast without worrying about running into her.

Avoiding the Lieutenant was an exhausting task. She was chasing him and he was running out of places to hide. He had no idea he was this attractive to Miss Uhura; then again, girls hit on him all the time at the Academy.

Seeing Sulu, Pavel walked over to his table and smiled. He would get Sulu to at least kiss him on Valentine's Day or he would curse the entire ship; they all had fun with him since he was the youngest member, now it was time for him to get what he wanted. This couldn't fail, Sulu was interested, he could tell. The way he blushed when Pavel was near… and he made sure to be near Sulu as often as possible; too bad Sulu was the oblivious type.

"Hi, Sulu," Chekov greeted. "Can I have breakfast with you?"

Sulu looked up and smiled as well. Pavel often thought that the Enterprise was like high school.

"You don't have to ask, Chekov," Sulu said. "We share meals when we have the chance, right?"

"Right."

Pavel sat down, observing Sulu carefully. He seemed a little bit distant and Chekov wondered if he'd done something wrong. When Sulu picked up his spoon, he winced.

"Are you okay?" Pavel asked, worried.

"Yeah, sure. I just…" Sulu glanced at Pavel. "It's nothing."

Now Pavel was sure something was wrong. Sulu was clearly angry with him, but he was clueless about what he did to cause this; the last thing he wanted was Sulu angry… Well, maybe after they started dating it wouldn't be so bad. Pavel shook his head; it wasn't time to think about what he wanted when he and Sulu got to the physical stage of their relationship. He had to find out what was wrong with Sulu at the moment.

Before Pavel could say anything, Nurse Chapel came and stood next to Sulu with a frown. She was accompanied by Riley.

"Sulu, you better explain why the hell you didn't go to Sickbay yesterday." Nurse Chapel glared at Sulu, putting her hands on her waist.

"Ah…" Sulu stuttered.

"Sorry, Sulu," Riley looked apologetic. "I just wanted to see if you were okay, I had no idea you didn't go to Sickbay."

"Are you sick?" Pavel glanced at Sulu.

"No, I'm fine, really," Sulu tried to convince him, yet he winced again.

"You're not fine!" Nurse Chapel got closer to Sulu. "Or do you think this is 'fine'?"

Nurse Chapel lifted Sulu's shirt, showing a big black bruise on his stomach. Pavel scowled at Riley. He was never careful when he trained with Sulu and Pavel hated it when he left marks on Sulu's body. He was the only one entitled to leave any kind of marks on Sulu, and let's face it, the way he planned on doing would be much more satisfactory.

"I didn't know it was this bad, Sulu," Riley said, surprised. "You should have said something."

"You kind of bolted yesterday." Sulu moaned when Nurse Chapel touched his stomach. "And it didn't hurt at the time anyway."

"How many times do I have to tell you two that sometimes adrenaline doesn't allow the body feel pain?" Nurse Chapel sighed. "Honestly, you guys are unbelievable. We have enough trouble with Captain Kirk and his careless behavior without adding you to the mix."

"I'm fine," Sulu kept complaining.

"You are not," said Pavel and Nurse Chapel at the same time.

"Sickbay, Sulu. And if you don't show up in ten minutes, I'll tell Doctor McCoy about it and you know what he's like. Do we need another 'flu vaccine extravaganza' around here, huh?"

That was nasty. McCoy had chased every member of the crew to give them a flu shot and it was amazing how the medical staff had managed to get all the crew injected no matter where they were. Chekov had received his shot when he was leaving his room. Doctor M'Benga was stronger than he looked.

"I'm going, I'm going," Sulu caved. He had received his shot when he was bathing in the training room's showers. McCoy was truly devoted to his profession.

"I expect you there," Nurse Chapel warned. She turned around and walked away from the mess hall.

"I'll help you," Pavel offered. If Doctor McCoy drugged Sulu up perhaps he could find out why he was angry.

"That's okay, Chekov," Sulu smiled but Pavel could see he didn't really mean it. "Riley can help me; it's his fault, after all."

"You didn't dodge!" Riley complained. "All right, I'll help you, let's go"

As Riley took Sulu's waist gently, Pavel frowned. Sulu had gotten all red and he was avoiding Pavel's eyes. What was that about? Pavel couldn't be wrong, Sulu was attracted to him, he would swear it; although Sulu did spend his week nights with Riley, 'training'. Could it be that Sulu wasn't as innocent as Pavel had thought and that he was having some fun with Riley while he was thinking of taking it slow with him?

Riley wasn't competition for Pavel, he could easily show Sulu why he was better than the Lieutenant. For starters, he was Russian and, well… that should be enough. Seeing Sulu in Riley's arms was disconcerting, though. Maybe Sulu was interested in Riley now, but Pavel wouldn't stand there and do nothing about it. He had Sulu as his Secret Valentine. His move would have to be way more forward than he'd thought. When he was done with Sulu he wouldn't remember about Riley at all.


Jim sat down in front of Uhura as she organized a chess set.

"Hi, gorgeous," Jim said with a smile.

"Okay, what do you want?" Uhura looked at him oddly.

"Oh, don't be like that. I come in peace."

"All right… what do you want?"

"Fine, fine… I want your help."

"Is there a file you need me to translate?" Uhura asked promptly, and Jim felt proud. He had the best crew ever.

"No, it's not work-related. It's more… personal-related."

Uhura put the chess piece she was holding on the table and focused on Jim; that made him feel nervous.

"Either McCoy wasn't available for this… or you want to talk about Spock," she tried to guess. "Since McCoy is always available for you, then it must be about Spock."

"Sometimes I hate that you're this smart," Jim grumbled. "Yes, it's about Spock… if it's too awkward, tell me and I'll leave."

"Why? You want to talk about sex? Because we never got to that stage in our relationship."

Jim gaped at Uhura with shock. He was afraid of asking her about the present and she brought up sex as something normal. This woman was amazing. If Jim wasn't so in love with Spock, Scotty would totally have some competition. He got why his Chief of Engineer was so smitten with her.

"I… eh… I…" Jim said, still shocked. "I love Spock."

Uhura narrowed her eyes, like she was trying to see if Jim was lying.

"Oh my God," she said, putting a hand on her mouth. "You really love Spock!"

"Wait… you believe me?" Jim frowned. Uhura always doubted everything he said.

"You wouldn't lie about loving Spock, and you're blushing like a teenage girl." Uhura nodded.

"Awesome, thanks," Jim bit out. Bones had said this too… maybe it was true.

"Still, I assume you want to sleep with Spock, right? I can't help you with that," Uhura said calmly. "Ears are sensitive, that's all I know. And you know about Vulcan kisses, I don't think I have any more information about Spock that could interest you."

Yeah, Jim knew all about Vulcan kisses and he had found out in the most uncomfortable way he could imagine. Uhura was still with Spock when Jim took the Vulcan's hand to draw his attention back to him. When Uhura glared at him, hard, he let go without knowing what he had done. It took several lectures from Spock about 'personal space and cultural behavior' to finally understand that he had kissed Spock. Well, the Vulcan hadn't complained; it wasn't entirely Jim's fault.

"You never had sex?" Jim frowned. He was sure they at least had a little action aboard the Enterprise, everyone said so.

"No, the rumors started one time when he was giving me a massage… and it's private. We never slept together, so I'm not sure what I could help you with."

"Well, you'll be glad to know that I want your help in wooing Spock." Jim smiled widely.

Uhura lifted her eyebrow. Right, the word was corny.

"You want to 'woo' Spock," Uhura said mockingly. "I thought you didn't know the meaning of that word."

"Hey, I happen to read a lot of romance novels, even when Bones says those are gay. Anyway, look Uhura, I know you don't like me much, but I really don't want to screw this up with Spock. Have you ever felt like you were just walking around with no sense of direction? I was like that, until Spock came around. He's my compass… even though he has no idea; I don't want to lose him. So I'm asking you to help me, you're Spock's friend, I want him to be happy, and I know you want that as well. I know that maybe he isn't interested in me, but I have to try, Uhura… so what do you say?"

Uhura looked at Jim with surprise.

"You didn't have to become a woman to get Spock, Jim." Uhura smirked. "But because I can see your devotion, I'll hardly say anything about it. I'll help you, although trust me, you are already halfway there."

"What do you mean?" Jim frowned.

"Nothing. Okay, I'm going to share something with you…"

As Jim listened to what Uhura was saying, he knew this was her way of giving Jim her blessing to woo Spock. Screw Bones, woo was a great term, and it made Uhura help him. He was wooing the hell out of Spock, and nobody was standing in his way anymore.


Riley was grateful for Doctor McCoy's medical skills, he really was… but now that he was dragging a completely drugged up Sulu, he thought the doctor could have at least let Sulu rest in Sickbay instead of making Riley take him to his own room to sleep the rest of the day. Riley was a team-player, but Sulu was acting weird and he didn't swing that way… not that there was anything wrong with that, it just was not Riley's thing. He loved women, he was pretty sure he wasn't even bisexual. And Sulu giggling like a high school girl in his arms wasn't something he was enjoying.

"We're almost there, Sulu, hang on." Riley tried to distract Sulu from blowing air in his ear. What the hell was the guy doing anyway? Trying to seduce him?

"Okay." Sulu giggled again. "Riley, I know they say drugs are bad… but they really aren't… they make you happy! Something that makes you happy can't be bad, right?"

"I just hope you don't remember anything," Riley muttered. "Crap, I forgot to ask McCoy for your code…"

"I can give you my secret code… you want to know my secret code, Riley? We have been training for months, I should call you Kevin… Kevin… Keviiiiinnnnnnn…"

"That's my name, don't wear it out." Riley tried to joke to see if Sulu dropped his annoying behavior.

"You can call me Hikaru… say it, Riley…. Say Hikaru."

"Hikaru," Riley repeated deadpan. Dammit, he thought afterwards.

"See? It wasn't that hard, and now I'll call you Kevin, and you can call me Hikaru, and we can be best friends in the whole world!" Sulu moved suddenly, almost making Riley drop him.

"I thought Chekov was your best friend in the whole world," Riley pointed out. He probably shouldn't indulge Sulu's delusions.

"No," Sulu pouted. "Chekov isn't my friend anymore, I need a new friend… you want to be my friend, Kevin?" Sulu fluttered his eyelashes in what Riley assumed was supposed to be a persuasive way.

"Um… sure, why not?" Riley wanted to just put Sulu on his bed and get the hell out.

"Yay! New best friend!" Sulu hugged Riley. "I like you Riley, you're a great guy! Tell me, what do you want from your secret Valentine?"

"Again with that? Whatever thing you want to give me is fine, Sulu," Riley sighed. He decided to just play along with Sulu's comments, the drugs were doing the talking right now and he shouldn't feel awkward.

"Don't be silly!" Sulu said, pouting again. "You're not my secret Valentine!"

"What?" Riley frowned. Then why the hell was he asking?

"Nooooo… I have another secret Valentine… but I don't want him… hey, you think Keenser will go out with me?" Sulu giggled again. "I can give him oil!"

"All right, I think you really should sleep… can you punch your code, Sulu?"

"I think my hand is gone, Riley… oh, God, I can't feel my arm, I'm losing body parts! Something is eating my arms!"

"It's just the meds, Sulu." No luck in getting the code from Sulu, then. Riley tried to reach his communicator, but Sulu kept touching his hand thinking it was his own while Riley was batting it away.

"What the hell are you doing?"

Riley froze in place. Pavel Chekov was walking towards them, and he looked royally pissed.


Jim couldn't believe what he just heard after he talked with Uhura. He was walking happily through the hallway, planning his gift, when he noticed the Yeomen chatting, probably the morning gossip. He didn't expect to hear all about Spock's visit to Bones' room. What the hell? Was Bones trying to get his man? Bones wasn't even gay, why Spock was visiting him? This should be clarified, Jim should be rational, he could manage that. He rocked that, just ask Spock, he could be the most rational guy aboard, not even the Vulcan had complaints about Jim's behavior so far, he could do it.

"You fucker!" Jim said as soon as he entered Sickbay. Okay, maybe he needed to fix a few details on the whole rational thing.

"And good morning to you as well." Bones glared at him.

"Chapel, out," Jim ordered snappishly. "… please," he added less rudely, noticing the glare Chapel sent in his direction.

Chapel ignored Jim and turned to Bones.

"Go ahead Chapel, our Captain needs a gynecological exam; maybe his estrogen levels are wacky again," Bones smirked.

Jim didn't mind. He needed to clarify a few things with Bones and if that made Chapel leave, he wasn't saying anything to prevent it.

"Yes Doctor McCoy." Chapel frowned as she walked away from Sickbay, sending Jim an intimidating look, almost like 'if you fuck with him and he's angry when I return to work, your blood will be on the walls'. Jim couldn't really blame Chapel, Bones angry was… an acquired taste.

Once Bones saw Chapel out the door, he closed it and activated the security lock.

"All right, what the hell is your problem Jim? I warn you, this is the last time I let you talk to me that way in front of my staff. I don't care if you're the Captain, I'm the CMO and I can get creative when you piss me off." Bones crossed his arms in front of his chest, glaring at Jim again.

Okay, point. Jim shouldn't have talked to Bones like that, it was true. But he was stealing Spock! Jim had every right to be mad, Bones was his best friend, the code forbade him to make any moves on someone his friend was already interested in. Spock was his, dammit! He was there first, Uhura left him months ago, Spock was fair game and Jim had done everything except piss on him to make it clear that he was interested.

"Sorry," Jim apologized, "but you deserved it! Why was Spock in your room at 6 am, huh?"

"Oh, it's about that…" Bones mused, finally understanding Jim's anger.

"Yes, it's about that, asshole! You knew Spock was mine, I told you that, I asked your advice and you mocked me endlessly! It's a dick move to steal my man, Bones," Jim pouted. It was the best he could do at this point.

"First," Bones sighed, "do you listen yourself when you talk, or do you just let shit come out of your mouth?"

"Hey! It's a…"

"Shut the hell up!" Bones demanded. "It's my turn. Let's put aside the fact that I'm 'straight as an arrow' as you colorfully put it when you tried to put your dick up my ass that time you were drunk and horny and I sedated you for two days; even if we don't count that, and by some miracle I would say 'okay, I'm trying the gay lifestyle, it seems like loads of fun', why in seven hells I would be hitting on Spock? I hate the guy, I have better taste than him and the only way we ever actually get along is when we are opposing you. And imagine I got a concussion and then Spock somehow becomes… more tolerable for me. Even so, I still wouldn't do anything. You're my friend, and I know better. You backed off when I was interested in someone, and with your pathological libido, I would say that was a challenge…"

"It really was," Jim cringed. Bones had fine taste in women, it was hard to step aside and let his friend have that girl they both wanted.

"… then for me, straight and anti-Vulcan, it shouldn't be a problem to stay away," Bones spat. "What the hell, Jim? We're supposed to be friends."

"I know." Jim felt ashamed. Jealousy was something he had a hard time controlling. He was the possessive type, he hated it when others wanted what he had. He blamed his mother, it was so rare when she gave him any attention, that when she actually took any notice of his presence, he clung to that like crazy. "It's just… I heard that Spock went to your room, and that you let him in even when you said last time that he was banned from it… and I'm an insecure bastard… sorry Bones."

"Come on, kid." Bones punched him on the arm, lightly. His friend knew he was being awfully honest, he had seen the insecure side of Jim. "It was just ship business, he forbade me from injecting the science lab with the vaccine until they 'consented'. I don't care, I'm vaccinating them when they least expect it, and the Vulcan can kiss my ass… you know, metaphorically speaking."

"Oh." Jim felt like an idiot. Why was he acting like a teenager? Of course Bones wouldn't put the moves on Spock, the guy was straight and hated Spock. His rational side always took a vacation when it was something Spock-related.

"Yeah, oh." Bones lifted an eyebrow. "You know better than hearing gossip, asswipe."

"I really like Spock, Bones," Jim said as a justification. His friend wasn't buying it, he knew, but still… it was true.

"And that makes it okay when you act like a jerk?" Bones spat. "Keep it together, Jim, I'm not interested in the elf, but jealousy is dangerous. What if someone else is as fucked up as you and thinks Spock is nice? You can't go around insulting people, the Vulcan isn't yours."

"Yet," Jim muttered.

"What?"

"He isn't mine yet," Jim clarified.

"Oh God." Bones pinched the bridge of his nose. "You fell for him hard. Dammit, I knew those bangs on the head would come and bite me on the ass later. I shouldn't have let you get drunk so many times."

"You don't choose who you love," Jim smiled weakly.

"That's no excuse for bad taste," Bones grumbled. "Since you already chased away my staff, want to grab lunch? You can keep up your girly talk about the hobgoblin if you want to."

"Sure, I have the perfect gift for him." Jim felt better after hearing Bones confirm that he was an idiot. He should consider his friend's words; he was right, he had to keep his jealousy in check. Just not now. He was close to getting Spock, he wouldn't let anything ruin it.

"Are you planning on putting a bow on your dick? That's not a real gift, you know," Bones mocked.

"You just didn't appreciate my creativity, and that wasn't meant for you, I was waiting for Gaila," Jim huffed.

"Whatever, I'm just saying that you better take things slow with the elf. It's your first love, hurrying things could be tricky."

That was another thing to consider. Spock was his first real love interest, he was willing to do anything for him; maybe he should start slow and see how things developed. Declaring his intentions to woo him on Valentine's Day, and then roses, candy and those romantic clichés he'd read… and instead of making Jim cringe, the prospect of doing this for Spock actually made his stomach flutter with excitement. He was becoming a woman, dammit.


Pavel smiled widely when he let Sulu lie down on his bed. Riley had practically thrown Sulu into Pavel's arms after he quickly explained that he was medicated, and bolted, fearing Chekov's rage. Well, he was pretty angry, Riley had no right to grope Sulu, and the way Sulu giggled… it made Pavel sick. Good thing Riley was a smart guy, and he knew that as Sulu's best friend, Pavel knew his security code (well, he kind of saw it on Sulu's medical file, but it still counted!).

"Just take it easy, Sulu." Pavel patted his friend's head. "You'll be fine."

"Thanks, Kevin," Sulu murmured, making Pavel's blood boil again. Kevin? Did he call Riley by his first name? What the hell? When had those two become such good friends?

"I'm Chekov," the Russian hissed.

"No, Chekov is with Uhura," Sulu mumbled with his eyes closed.

"I assure you, I'm here, Sulu." Pavel knew he shouldn't take this personally, Sulu was drugged.

"Don't be silly Kevin," Sulu giggled, "you don't need to pretend to be Pavel, you're my new best friend already!"

WHAT? Pavel's rage was back, and he wanted blood for this. He tried to pry more from Sulu, but he was already asleep. So the only reliable source of information at this point was Riley. Sighing, Pavel let his hand travel down Sulu's torso, lifting his shirt gently. That big bruise was still there, why hadn't McCoy gotten rid of it? He touched it tenderly, thinking of how the minute he got into Sulu's pants, he was making it clear he was the only one marking any part of his body.

"Mmmm," Sulu moaned. "Kevin, that's nice…"

Pavel retrieved his hand quickly, feeling hurt and betrayed. So Kevin had gotten touchy with Sulu, huh? Well, now he had a few things to answer to. He left Sulu's room in a rush, looking for Riley. He had liked Sulu for a long time, and he was Russian, that meant he would get Sulu and put Riley in his place.


"Hey, Riley!"

Kevin turned around, seeing Yeoman Rand in front of him.

"Hello, Miss Rand," Kevin smiled.

"I've told you, Riley, call me Janice. You make me feel old."

"I'm sorry, Janice, force of habit." Kevin kept smiling. He liked Rand, she was funny and attractive, any guy would be lucky to be with her.

"So Riley, I want to ask you a strange question… are you seeing anyone?"

"What? Why? Is the crew gossiping? Because I'm not interested in Sulu! I'm not gay! Not that there's anything wrong with that, I just don't like men that way. I mean, I do like Sulu, but as a friend, nothing more, strictly platonic, I respect it if he's gay, and he's attractive, I'm sure he will find someone eventually, but I'm not that person…"

Kevin stopped for air, noticing the frown on Rand's face.

"What are you talking about, Riley? We know you aren't gay. I mean, you keep staring at my breasts, we all assume you're straight."

Kevin blushed. He thought he had been discreet.

"Sorry," he apologized quickly, still blushing.

"Don't be, I'm flattered." Rand smiled. "Besides, Sulu is interested in Chekov, honey. You aren't exactly his type."

"That's what I thought, and I admit they make a good couple, but Sulu kept asking me about Valentine's gifts, and he was distracted around me… it was confusing."

Rand looked like she finally understood what was happening, which was nice because Riley had no idea what the hell was going on here.

"Maybe Sulu just was doing a favor to your secret Valentine." Rand nodded. "He's a nice friend."

"Why would my secret Valentine ask Sulu to ask me about the gift?" Kevin was puzzled.

"Well, to get you something nice without revealing themselves," explained Rand. "It makes sense, right?"

"I suppose." Kevin wasn't sure if it made sense, but it could work for him as long as Sulu wasn't interested in him that way.

"Yeah, now Riley, tell me, have you considered the possibility of dating someone older than you?"

Kevin looked at Rand with curiosity. It really hadn't crossed on his mind to date someone older, or younger for that matter. He was just happy being single; however, he had to admit he had been single for a while, maybe it was time to start dating again.

"Why do you ask?" Kevin decided to get information from Rand.

"Let's say an older woman is interested… would you go out with her?"

"Well, I…"

"Riley!"

Kevin and Rand were startled by the anger in Chekov's voice as he approached them.

"Can I talk with you?" Chekov said quickly when he was standing next to them.

"Um…" Kevin didn't want to be on the receiving end of Chekov's wrath.

"We are kind of busy here, Chekov," Rand intervened, sounding angry as well.

"It will take only a moment, I need to clarify a few things with him."

"Let me help you with that," Rand said. "He is straight and he is not interested in Sulu."

"But I think it's great that Sulu is gay, I mean, diversity and all that… go gays!" Kevin said quickly.

Rand and Chekov looked at Kevin with wide eyes.

"So, you aren't interested in Sulu?" Chekov asked.

"No, I think he's awesome, but I don't like him that way."

"Oh… all right then."

Chekov walked away like nothing had happened. The kid was really weird.

"Riley?" Rand caught Kevin's attention again. "Would you go out with her?"

"I don't know… it would depend on the person. I mean, Scotty is very lucky to have you as his Secret Valentine and all, but…"

"Wait, what? Scotty isn't my secret Valentine, why do you think that?"

"It's just… everyone talked about how he recited you a poem and declared his love…"

"I was just helping him! Great, does everyone think I'm with Scotty?"

"Pretty much, yeah…"

"Oh, oh… Nyota hasn't heard this, right?"

"Um… well, she was in the mess hall when the comments were thrown, I think she overheard…"

"Dammit! I have to find her! For the record, I'm not with Scotty and I'm not interested in him, okay?"

"Okay."

As he saw Rand disappearing down the hall, Kevin wondered why she clarified that. Oh, well, he had better things to do, like find a present for Yeoman Miller. She was a nice lady… and older than him… crap, what if Rand was asking about it because she wanted to see if Riley was interested in Miller? She was a nice lady, but not exactly Kevin's type. He wasn't sure if this was better than the whole Sulu fiasco or not.

TBC...