Chris was flushed a slight pink as he rubbed his faintly unshaven face, deep in thought. He glanced up to the ceiling, wishing Spock hadn't been so descriptive of everything that had happened. Spock could have easily skimmed over things, but Chris hadn't explained that at the beginning. His retelling of the events was so detailed, Chris doubted Spock had thought about anything else in the past 24 hours. He looked closely at Spock. His face showed no evident emotion. Unexpectedly remembering what Cadet Uhura had said about his eyes being full of emotion during their conservation on the balcony, Chris looked at his eyes and was saddened by the sight. Spock's eyes looked like his heart had been broken. Chris pulled his gaze to his now empty coffee he was turning around and around in his hand. If she hadn't been a student, he would be encouraging him. Chris honestly thought that Uhura would be good for him if the situation was different. If he hadn't caught them, they wouldn't have to deal with this. He and Uhura could've slipped under the radar for the next few months until she graduated, but now Chris had to deal with this.
"Alright, Spock." He said while leaning back in his chair. He looked up at the ceiling. "What would you suggest we do about this?"
Spock hesitated, looking at his clasped hands resting on his desk. "I believe it would only be appropriate for you to report my violation to the Academy Board. I assume there will be a hearing and I will not argue against the charges. I would like to keep Cadet Uhura out of trouble. She has a bright future in Star Fleet and should not be expulsed because I initiated inappropriate relations with her. She will be keep out of the hearing procedures. It is highly expected that the result of a hearing of such nature would be my immediate termination from Star Fleet."
"Well, you see, Spock, I don't want to do it that way." Chris said, looking directly at Spock. "I want you on the Enterprise."
"Capatin, I-"
"Spock, just listen for a minute, okay? You have a bright future in Star Fleet as well. When I step down, I doubt there will ever be a better candidate to take my Captain position. I think you will be a great Captain someday, if that is what you want. Isn't your future worth saving?"
"Captain, if you are suggesting that I not be punished-"
"I'm not saying that. I think I should write up a violation of insubordination for you. I did tell you not to get involved with her, Spock," Chris said a little softer. Spock's stare turned icy for a moment before he looked away and nodded." So I should suspend you from teaching and, as a result, remove your TA."
"And this action will not be evident on Cadet Uhura's record?"
"No, it would only be on yours. I suspect there will be other instructors that would love to have her work for them." Spock furrowed his brow, still not meeting Chris's eyes.
"Yes, I believe you are right." Spock said crossing his arms, and turning his chair a little. "There have been many instructors that have had similar thoughts." Chris's eyes squinted slightly in confusion.
"What?"
"Several instructors have remarked on Cadet Uhura's work ethic and physical appearance. While I believe they thought I was not paying attention, I assure you that I heard every word. As a result, I would like be involved in the reassignment of Cadet Uhura."
"Spock, are you…" Chris paused, not believing his own words. "Jealous?"
Spock turned his chair back, slowly bringing his eyes to meet Chris's gaze. "I am concerned for Cadet Uhura's well-being," he said sharply. Chris noticed that he didn't deny his accusation, but dropped the subject.
"I will let you know my candidates and you can eliminate those you see fit." Spock's frame unstiffened slightly, and he gave a curt nod.
"What will I be working on until the Enterprise is ready?" Spock said as he uncrossed his arms and rested them on the table, trying to pull the focus off his feelings.
"I need help with assigning the crew to the Enterprise so you'll help with that. Also, I think you should still program the Kobiashi Maru exam. You have for the past couple years, so I think it would be expected of you to do it this year as well."
"Yes, Captain."
"Now, Spock," Chris said with a serious tone. "I must ask, I must beg you do not see Cadet Uhura again. Not in public, not in private. If you did, it would likely rise suspicions about your suspension."
Spock slowly nodded, "Yes, Captain. It would be best if we avoided the appearance of favoritism."
Chris chuckled. "That's a good way to phrase it, Spock."
