Junior – Part Two
Disclaimer: I do not own Star Trek 2009 or anything else connected to the Star Trek franchise.
AN: And here'd the next chapter. I don't feel like much has happened but I'm trying to build it up a little before I get to the fun stuff. But I hope you enjoy anyway.
Warnings:
Slash Kirk/Spock
MPreg
Chapter 11 - Rumors
5 Months Old
Jim folded a little blue onesy with orange swirls around the feet trying to be quiet so he wouldn't wake a slumbering Junior. Starfleet had finally assigned them a more challenging mission then staring at stars all day. The planet, Mark 234 orbiting Sol GM2537 in the Obcurbi Nebular was an M class planet star fleet was considering placing a colony on. It was the Enterprise's job to do a more thorough survey of the planet after the preliminaries done by the USS Dauntless and Jim was enjoying the change even though he didn't have all that much involvement.
Survey's and anything sciencey was Spock's department so his Vulcan had been busy for the past 2 weeks organizing his department, running experiments collecting samples. And the 2 weeks spent getting to Mark 234 he'd spent his time going over and checking every single report he'd done when sleep deprived to ensure there were no mistakes. All in all since Shore leave on Alpha Prime they hadn't had much time alone together between ships duties and taking care of Junior. Spock had even spent a few nights in the labs leaving Jim to fend for himself for the first time since they had Junior.
Luckily he had Yeoman Jenny, who basically was his savior whenever he felt out of his depth. Now that everyone was actually busy with their own projects including Bones, his team being responsible for cataloguing anything that could be harmful or helpful to the health of humanoid life forms and Uhura who was immersed in cataloguing all naturally occurring radio frequencies that could effect subspace transmission, he had no one else to turn to for advice. He could of course just barge in and interrupt what ever anyone was doing but be could never take any of his crew from their work. So Jenny, who being his Nanny was very knowledgeable about these things was his best choice. She was also a lot of fun most of the time and not too patronizing when he freaked out over Junior getting the sniffles. That incident turned out to be Junior just not liking the smell of his cologne, a new one he'd picked up on Alpha prime. He never wore it again after that and Junior stopped sniffling. That little incident did end up proving that Junior had a more sensitive sense of smell then a full-blooded Vulcan, which fascinated Spock and McCoy. Just because Junior was now born didn't stop him from being a scientific miracle. Jim was just happy the people cataloguing his physiology would never treat him like a lab rat.
Placing the last pair of tiny socks in the bright yellow and pink draws set next to the changing table Jim stopped down to collect up the collection of toys that had taken up residence on the floor. Spending his day off from signing survey party approvals and writing out mission reports cleaning Junior's nursery was surprisingly therapeutic even if it something he would not have considered as a relaxing part time several months ago.
"Oh Captain, I'm sorry I shouldn't have come in unannounced," Jim's attention changed from the spotted teddy bear he was picking up to the sound of the door sliding open with a squeak of compressed air.
"Good morning Yeoman, what are you doing here on your day off?" He asked brushing off Yeoman Jenny's apology as he stood teddy bear joining the other toys balanced precariously against his chest with his other hand.
"I just thought I might check how you're doing, no emergencies I hope," Yeoman Jenny plastered a smile on her face as she stepped in to the room. She was quick to dart in and save a little wooden train and ring of plastic keys before they hit the floor.
"Thanks," Jim grinned chucking the rest in the toy box before he dropped more, "Junior's taking his morning nap so no worries."
"Did he drink all his milk?" she asked quietly leaning over the crib to take in Juniors sleeping face, a sight that would never stop putting little butterflies of affection in his stomach. His son was definitely the cutest baby he'd ever seen and he would deny it if anyone called him bias.
"Yep, every last drop," he whispered back unable to stop himself from leaning over and stroking Junior's soft cheek smiling when his son leaned into his touch, "and he had a good burp after before going right to sleep."
Jim looked up finally looking at the woman properly seeing the redness rimming her eyes and the faltering smile, "Jenny," is asked softly drawing her away from the crib, "Is everything all right, you usually don't come here on your day off unless I'm having one of my freak out moments?"
"I um, " she looked away her hand raising to hide her eyes from her inquiring Captain, "I guess it's only natural to go to the place you feel most comfortable when.." she trailed of her head turning to the crib indicating to Jim how much she'd come to treat Junior like one of her many siblings she helped raise when her parents where off planet.
"I think we better discuss this else where," Jim decided not wanting to wake Junior. He ushered her towards their living room after setting Scotty's version of a baby monitor.
"Here, have seat," he offered the sniffling girl a seat before picking up the box of tissues on the sideboard and placed them in her lap. He'd had too much experience with crying women then he would have liked and he still didn't know what he should do most of the time.
"You want to tell me what's wrong, promise I'll keep it all confidential," he tried to keep his voice light so she mood wouldn't dip any further, "Captain's honor."
"I'm sorry to trouble you Captain, this isn't really something you should deal with," she replied sadly in an attempt to offer him a watery smile as he sat on the coffee table in of her.
"I'm the Captain I deal with everything that goes on in this ship," Jim said pompously garnering a small smile.
"Jeff broke up with me," she blurted blowing her nose quickly to cover the tears leaking from her sorrowful brown eyes, "I mean we've only been going out a month but I really liked him and no one has ever been so sweet to me."
"Hey now it's ok," Jim patted her awkwardly on the shoulder. He never though shy Jeff would have to nerve to break up with such a pretty lady, "Did he tell you why?" he asked quietly.
"Said something about not wanting to be a screen or something then he scampered off," she shook her head miserably, "I thought we were going ok, I mean all our dates so far have been a lot of fun and we were getting on well. I never expected it to end so quickly you know," she spoke quietly between she sniffles whipping at her eyes with a clean tissue, "I think it's mostly shock."
"Probably, but you both seem to really like each other," Jim tried not really sure what to say. Before Spock he'd only ever had one long term relationship and that had ended when the girl Ruth had left for collage. Every other woman he'd either broken up with within 2 weeks or was a one-time thing.
Jim cringed when she head dropped and more tears flowed. Obviously that had not been the right thing to say. Switching from the table to the couch Jim drew her in to his arms. His mother always seemed to appreciate it when she was crying about his dad.
Moments later his door chirped sliding open to reveal Yeoman Rand holding several pads. Jenny pulled away from Jim quickly hiding her face before he could blink.
"Oh sorry I didn't mean to disturb you Captain," Janice squeaked slightly scandalized seeing her Captain with his arms around his very attractive nanny.
"Does no one knock any more," Jim muttered brushing himself off as he stood turning to face his Yeoman with a smile, "What can I do for you?"
"Just had a few forms to drop off, nothing too urgent," she replied eyes darting between her Captain and the woman curled up on the couch noting that the Commander was no where in sight.
"Thank you Yeoman," Jim replied taking the pads from her as he stepped forwards so she would have to step back into the corridor, "I'll take a look at them tonight."
"Just have them done by Friday," she nodded quickly making a quick retreat.
"I better go," Jenny muttered wiping her face and adjusting her clothes so she looked a little more presentable.
"Ok," Jim nodded, "You sure you're going to be ok?" he asked always worried about the well being of his crew.
"Yeah, I'll probably be all better tomorrow, just needed to get it all out you know," she replied slipping out the door, "But thank you."
"No problems," Jim tried a small smile seeing the embarrassed flush filling the woman's cheeks as she disappeared down the corridor. Crying on your Captain's shoulder would be embarrassing for anyone.
A whimper over the baby monitor had him retreating back into the room as the worry over his nanny's love life was replaced by Junior's cry for attention.
JUNIOR
"She seriously walked in on them, really?!" exclaimed a young red clad lieutenant in an excited whisper catching Jim's attention as he was about to enter the main rec room. Shifting a squirming Junior to his other shoulder he paused at the door finding something vaguely familiar in the three women's conversation.
"Yes, they were hugging or maybe kissing, but either way she pulled away real quick and then he basically kicked her out," the brunet science officer confirmed also keeping her voice low.
"You think that could have been because she didn't knock though," suggested the third also a science officer, but a bottle blonde Andorian sounding way more reasonable.
"Well maybe, but she still pulled away and if they weren't doing anything wrong…" the brunet trailed off using suggestion rather then words to emphasis her point.
"You don't really think he would though, I mean before maybe but not now, especially now…" The red lieutenant replied hesitantly, Wum'bessi Jim finally recognized, the brunet then had to be Lieutenant Yeck and the blonde was Ensign Barns. The three women were always seen socializing and trying to get shifts together.
"You know what he was like in the academy," Lieutenant Yeck told them causing Jim to narrow his eyes. If they were implying what he though he was not pleased.
"Yeah but he hasn't done any of that, not seriously anyway since," Wum'bessi said with a serious tone.
"You don't think she might be you know trying to seduce him do you?" asked Barns.
"Hey sweetie," Uhura surprised him taking Junior from his arms without much of a struggle cooing at the cute baby smiling up at her.
"Good evening Captain," she smiled finally deciding to acknowledging him and causing the conversation just inside the door to end abruptly confirming Jim's suspicions. They had been talking about him cheating on Spock with his nanny, something even Jim though was cliché. It was however a problem.
"Uhura, how are you this evening," Jim put on a grin following the lieutenant into the rec room casting an eye over the ladies who where keeping their eyes firmly on the table in front of them.
"You don't think he heard do you?" whispered Yeck not quietly enough.
"Just be quiet," Wum'bessi scolded Jim heard before they moved to far away to hear them in the crowded rec room. The crew always took advantage of their down time play card games, exchanging research and some just simply sitting around and having a drink. They called out, greeting him and Uhura saying how cute Junior was as they passed.
"Spock's still in the labs so he'll be late," Uhura said gracefully falling on a free couch causing Junior to giggle in delight.
"Oh, he didn't tell me," Jim frowned finding a comfortable spot beside her.
"I was there collecting samples of that teal and green plant that gives off a high resonance frequency and he told me and since I was coming to meet you anyway it was more logical for me to tell you," she grinned down at Junior still more interested in the baby then her dashing Captain.
"Mmmm," Jim hummed a little annoyed. If anyone was cheating it was Spock cheating on him with his science projects, "How late did he say he would be?"
"He said approximately 32 minutes," Uhura replied promptly closing her hands over her face and removing them abruptly with an exclamation of 'peek a boo'. Junior broke into peals of giggling reaching out for Uhura's hands as they returned to her face.
"E'llo Captain, Miss Uhura," Scotty plopped down on the couch across from them before Jim could reply.
"Hey Scotty," Jim nodded as the man shuffled forwards tickling Junior's ear.
"E'llo little one," he grinned as Junior managed to twist a little on Uhura's knee forcing her to hold him in place as he tried to grab at Scotty's hand.
"So how's my lady been today Scotty?" Jim asked leaning forwards looking forward to hear more about ships business after a day of cleaning house.
"Aye, She's good Captain, had a chance to upgrade the shield format and I'll link it up tomorrow to give us a boost if anyone decides we're a target," Scotty spoke as he wiggled his finger just outside Junior's reach, "And it'll work 40% better if we run into any space debris."
"Great," Jim nodded.
"You heading down to planet tomorrow?" Uhura asked jiggling her knees up and down causing Junior's eyes to light up like Spock's did whenever he found a fascinating Science conundrum.
"Yep, I'm leading the expedition into the rock formations, see if we can find any useful minerals and such," He grinned. It was great now that Junior was born and Spock and Bones had reason to stop him going on proper exploratory missions.
"Mr. Spock going with you," Scotty grinned a humorous light in his eye finally letting Junior catch his finger.
"Of course," Jim winked. Even though he could go without resistance did not mean that Spock would be left behind.
"Keptain," Chekov bounced from his table he and Sulu were sharing with two female crew, "Did you try the cute sailor outfit I picked for Junior?" he asked tickling junior under his chin.
"Not yet," Jim shook his head in amusement. The ensign had asked him that same question every other day since shore leave on Alpha Prime and it amused him each time.
"Ahh, but Keptain he would be so cute in it," he whined dropping on the end of Scotty's couch that wasn't occupied.
"I'd like to see this outfit too," Uhura joined in moving her long ponytail from Junior's reach as the baby attempted to put it in his mouth.
"Aye Captain," Scotty nodded, "Chekov's been mentioning it nonstop."
"He won't shut up about it," Sulu joined in nodding to the others in greeting before shoving Chekov's knees aside so he could sit between the navigator and Engineer.
"Hey," Chekov protested shoving Sulu's shoulder.
"Now boy's," Scotty scolded, "I dant wanna have ta separate ya."
"Bones," Jim looked up with a grin as a shadow fell between their couches.
"Hi," Bones scolded before softening as he picked up Junior from Uhura's lap with a polite 'excuse me Miss', "How's this terror been?" he asked Junior giggling as he flew through the air before being settled against a strong chest.
"He's good," Jim grinned, "He even napped for a few hours this afternoon, he's drinking all his formula and eating most of his mash."
"That's good, isn't it darling," McCoy actually cooed, Junior protesting as the doctor's stubble rubbed against his soft cheek.
"Oh I'm sorry little um," he cooed again letting Junior pull at his ear in retaliation. It had freaked Jim out the first time he'd see Bones coo over his kid, but then he remembered the rare times he'd seen the Doctor with his own kid who brought out his softer side. Junior it seemed did the same thing, but that did not mean he gave the same treatment to Junior's parents.
"What are you doing bringing Chris out so late anyway, you should have him tucked in bed," he returned to scolding.
"It's not that late and does he look tired to you," Jim shot back quickly pointing at the baby now pulling on the collar of the Doctor's science blues.
"You need to make sure he has a proper sleep schedule or he'll never settle," He's growl slightly softened because cause he didn't want to upset Junior now happily grabbing at the Doctor's fringe.
Jim suppressed a grin. Add a baby and Bones just wasn't as scary, "I know and his schedule says he doesn't have to be in bed for another hour," he shot back. It was still really early, only 6 o'clock ships time.
"You been sleeping enough," McCoy stared down at him eyes narrowing as he looked Jim over probably cataloguing every sign of possible medical disaster.
"Yes, now that Junior's sleeping through most of the night I'm all set," Jim reassured him just to get out from under his stare. The doctor hummed at him in disproval but decided to let it go for the moment.
Junior leaned over McCoy's shoulder reaching and gurgling forcing the doctor to adjust his grip if he didn't want to drop the child.
"Spock," Jim beamed standing to greet his husband and upon seeing much of the room glancing their way decided to quell any rumors about their relationship. But instead of jumping the Vulcan since it would be very unbecoming of a starship captain to do such a thing in public he sauntered towards him.
"Jim, I apologies for being late" Spock's lips twitched as his Captain's hands curled over his hips.
"It's ok but tell me properly next time yeah," Jim said leaning in allowing Spock to close the gap between their lips the Vulcan's hands stroking over Jim's arms. It was chase, just a touch of lips but it was more then enough to assure the crew their command crew was perfectly happy.
But their happy moment smiling at each other was broken at Junior's wail as he tried to crawl out of the doctor's arms towards his Parents.
"Selek," Spock reached around Jim taking Junior from McCoy, "There is no need to make a fuss," he said softly cradling the whimpering child to his chest. Jim could not help the small smile form across his lips as he leaned in stroking a hand through Junior's fine hair soothing his whimpers. Spock was proving to be a great father.
"Awe, I don't want to be disrespectful but you guys are so cute," Gushed one of the Crewwomen who were sitting with Chekov and Sulu.
"Da," Chekov agreed nodding along enthusiastically with all the others.
Then a flash caught everyone by surprise before Jim could step back, "Sorry couldn't resist," Uhura grinned holding up a shinny silver camera no bigger then her palm. Jim had no idea where the camera came from but he grinned lazily placing a kiss on top of Junior's head before stepping back. He decided he didn't need to know, "So we having dinner or what, I'm famished," he asked instead.
"Yes, I require nourishment as well," Spock agreed leading the way from the rec room to the mess hall which was just next door.
Jim followed catching a glimpse of Lieutenant Wum'bessi shove Yeck saying something causing the woman to look sheepish as he passed. Looks like he fixed that issue he though smiling happily joining his husband and child in the corridor. Bones, Uhura and Scotty filed out behind him as the other two returned to their card game with the pretty Crewwomen.
JUNIOR
"I am so sorry Sir, I didn't realize she would start spreading it around," Rand apologized looking so stricken, " I mean it did look a little suss, but I should think that I know you better and I didn't think you were kissing her or anything."
Jim blinked at his Yeoman holding out the reports he was meant to give her. Her outburst was a little unexpected but at least now he knew she didn't mean to start the rumors he thought he'd stopped the night before.
"To what incident are you referring?" Spock questioned suddenly at his shoulder causing Rand to cringle looking between them sheepishly like she'd 'let the cat out of the bag' or something.
"Captain, Commander, I.."
Jim pushed the pads into her hands cutting off her apology, "Hey its ok, I'll have to make an announcement or something but it will all be fine." It seemed the rumor of him sleeping with his Nanny had escalated quickly even after his attempt to subtly point out that Spock was the only one for him. Rand of course being the first to give any proof to the rumor felt horrible when she heard of Jim's supposed infidelity that morning at breakfast. And of course Spock being cooped up in the science labs and not having gone to breakfast yet had not heard anything, nor had Jim said anything, which was probably a mistake on his part.
"I'll back you up all the way," Rand nodded looking determined to right her wrong as she glanced between him and Spock still waiting for an answer to his question.
"That would be appreciated," Jim smiled placing a hand on her shoulder to subtly direct her to the door, "Now I have to get ready to head down to the planet and you need to distribute those reports."
"Of course Captain," She saluted and strode with new determination towards the turbo lifts pads clutched to her chest.
"Explain," Spock ordered arms crossing over his chest.
Jim had seen Spock jealous before because some ambassador or delegate got too close in meetings or a girl or guy decided to flirt when they were on shore leave. Each time the Vulcan had been fully aware of Jim's disinterest even when he flirted back a little so he wouldn't seem impolite, but this time it was something else. Not accusation exactly however it didn't stop Jim from cringing under the Vulcan's gaze.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you but I didn't think it was anything really," Jim started getting a raised eyebrow for his efforts. With their bond Jim knew that Spock was aware he hadn't done anything with their nanny but didn't mean he wouldn't require an explanation.
"Ok fine," Jim huffed not really wanting to air Jenny's troubles, but its not like Spock would actually say anything to anyone, "Miss Jenny came to the nursery yesterday to see Junior because she was upset over her boyfriend dumping her for no good reason. I comforted her and Rand walked in when I was hugging her."
"And these rumors have started because she told one of her friends about this," Spock queried dropping his hands to his sides which showed his concern.
"Yeah," Jim nodded, "I over heard a few crewwoman talking about it last night and thought I'd changed their opinion with our little display, but I guess it didn't work."
Spock's eyebrow went up again, "I did find it most irregular as you usually refrain from such displays of physical affection for my sake, however I had assumed it was because we have not been intimate since we received orders to survey Mark 234."
Jim grinned, "A logical deduction and something we need to rectify as soon as possible, but no," he shook his head taking Spock hand's, "I did it because wanted everyone to know I only have eyes for you."
"I see," Spock's eyes softened as he curled their hands together tone becoming serious as he continued, "However this matter will have to be addressed as it may affect the crew's trust in you and there for any orders you give."
"I know," Jim replied letting his head drop against Spock's warm shoulder letting the rest of his words become muffled, "but how do I even do that. Hey everyone I'm not screwing my nanny so please stop spreading rumors."
"Perhaps not in such crude language but that would suffice," Spock rested a hand over the back of Jim's neck massaging the tense muscles, "Your crew respects you and I am sure 86.4% of the crew will not believe the rumors."
"And the other 13.6%?" Jim questioned melting under Spock's touch.
"New recruits or known gossips," Spock confirmed.
"Um sorry, sorry didn't mean to impose," Jenny squeaked jumping back behind the corner towards Junior's nursery the baby fussing in her arms, "But I can't find Selek's Blankie and he's getting fussy. And you didn't answer when I knocked, but now I know why.."
"It's ok we're not being explicit," Jim grinned cutting of her embarrassed babbling allowing Spock to step away so they didn't make their nanny more uncomfortable.
"Oh don't even mention that," she gaged staying firmly out of sight, " I really don't want to know."
"I believe Selek's blanket is here Yeoman," Spock interrupted to stop Jim's jokes before they became too inappropriate picking up the orange and green monstrosity that was Junior's beloved blanket.
"Oh um thanks," Jim heard her mutter as Spock handed her the blanket, "He should be fine now," she assured him as Jim moved forward.
Junior's whimpers stopped as his hands grasped the soft fabric pulling it to his face and Jim could feel a happy spark in the back of his mind. As Junior grew the family bond he shared with Jim and Spock grew too and Jim relished every emotion Junior sent. It did mean he had to be careful what he felt though because even with Spock helping through their marital bond he couldn't block all emotion Jim ended up sending back.
"Hey little man," Jim grinned swooping to pluck Junior from Jenny's arms to give him a big kiss and cuddle. Once Junior was old enough he would be able to shield the bond himself but for now Jim was happy to be happy, "You take care while daddy and papa are gone."
Junior giggled pressing his blanket into Jim's cheek. It would be the first time leaving Junior on the ship while they were on an away mission and Jim was trying not to feel too anxious about it.
"Selek," Spock leaned in placing a gentle hand on Junior's head ruffling his fine black hair showing he too was a little apprehensive even if he would never admit it.
"Don't worry Captain, Commander I'll take good care of him," Jenny grinned Jim allowing her to take Junior from his arms.
"Don't worry we trust you," Jim winked patting Junior's head one last time before they headed towards the door.
"We will return at 1500 ships time," Spock said, "however if we are needed we will have our communicators."
"Of course of course," Jenny nodded with a smile ushering them out the door, "I'll call you if anything is a miss but I'm pretty sure I have everything now."
"Until then Yeoman," Jim nodded before leading the way down the corridor Spock at his side.
JUNIOR
"Found anything interesting Spock?" Jim asked crouching next to a weird red rock with blue veins running through its length. The tricorder was picking up traces of iron and copper, a combination not usually found together but they made such a beautiful pattern and Jim couldn't help but smile.
"The combinations of metals found within the rocks is curious, however we have yet to identify any unknown minerals," Spock replied from beside the towering cliff face about 5 meters away that made up the wall of the canyon they were traversing.
"Well you can't have everything," Jim grinned dusting himself off as he stood looking over the rest of the landing party, three blue shirts tricorders out scanning everything in sight and two red shirts keeping watch making sure nothing snuck up on them.
"Let's move on shall we," Jim pointed towards the end of the canyon as he approached Spock, "Your scans said there was supposed too be a series of lakes that way didn't they."
"You are correct Captain," Spock inclined his head in agreement flicking off his tricorder.
"Ok everyone, lets continue," Jim called out making sure he was heard before moving off.
As the terrain sloped gradually downwards the large rocks littering the path eventually crumbling away into small stones making each step precarious as the ground threatened to slide from under their feet.
Turning to point at a red dusted plant sticking out of the Canyon high above them he felt a pull. Caught off guard his foot slipped, attempting to catch himself he felt his hands scrap against the rocks as he landed heavily on his side.
"Jim!" Spock was by his side in an instant, the others not far behind with their own cries of alarm.
"It's ok, I'm alright," Jim groaned sitting up feeling the sting of ripped skin as he dusted off his hands.
"You are injured," Spock gripped his wrists gently so he could see the full damage to Jim's palms now streaked with red and blue dust as it stuck to his grazed and bleeding skin.
"It's just a graze," Jim replied flitching when Spock splashed water from his canteen to clean the dirt from his hands so he could get a better look at the damage.
"You will still need medical attention," Spock told him his eyebrows dipping as he made sure all the dirt was gone.
Lieutenant Haddy handed Spock a medicated pad from the small field medical kit McCoy had insisted they bring without having to be asked. The others looked on the concern reflected in their eyes that should be reserved for when someone had a spear through their stomach or something rather then a few scraps.
Bloody worrywarts Jim thought with a sigh annoyed he had to go and fall over on the first away mission since the disaster that was Ginlalei, "It's barely anything," he protested but the Vulcan ignored him as he dabbed at his left hand, which had come off a bit worst then his right, "While I appreciate all the concern it is just a scrap," Jim turned to his crewmen since he wasn't getting anywhere with his husband, "Go survey this area and we can move on when I'm patched up."
"Sir.." Haddy started, the third in command of the trop and the unofficial spokes person. He stopped at Jim's look and nodded shooing the others off to go scan things, but he and the other red shirt Waqri turned to each end of the canyon barely moving more then two meters away.
"Guess some people listen to be," Jim muttered pulling his left hand back as Spock finished wrapping his palm.
"They are merely concerned for your welfare," Spock replied beginning on the other hand. Jim chose not to reply. He was always glad to know that his crew cared as much for his welfare as he care of theirs but it still wasn't something he was used to or comfortable with.
"You did not just simply fall," Spock spoke up finally leaning back as he finished with Jim's hand, "I also felt the pull."
"What?" Jim looked up in surprise.
"It seems Selek's telepathy has grown and he does not like us being so far from him," Spock explained packing away the medical bag Haddy had left with him.
Jim pulled himself to his feet brushing off his now red and blue stained pants careful of his newly bandaged hands, "That was Junior, the bond?" he questioned as Spock followed him to his feet.
"Yes," Spock nodded once eyes sweeping over his Captain from head to toe making sure there were no more injuries, "However because of your untrained mind you felt the pull much stronger then I did."
"Right, but he's otherwise ok right, I mean I didn't feel anything else," Jim needed to confirm already planning the way back to the beam out point.
Spock closed his eyes taking a moment before answering, "The bond is otherwise silent, and I do not believe Selek was doing it consciously."
"So that means what exactly?" Jim said picking his tricorder up without really checking to see if it was broken from his fall.
"From my readings it is normal for a child to accidentally pull on their parental bond when it is stretch due to a large distance between parents and child, however it is considered healthy to allow such distance so the child can become accustomed to it and to encourage independence," Spock lectured securing the medical bag around his shoulders.
"So we continue on then," Jim decided even if he had to ignore the anxious turn of his stomach. If Junior was ok then they should continue on their mission, but as a new parent Jim couldn't shake the need to get back to his child as soon as possible.
"It will only take 14.3 minute to reach the lake and 56.7 minutes to return to the beam out point," Spock said as Jim signaled for the others to move forwards once again.
"Yeah we'll be back before we know it," Jim smiled to reassure them both as he brushed against Spock's side needing to feel the Vulcan's warmth.
"Indeed," Spock nodded subtly quicken in his pace so Jim had to lengthen his stride to keep up even if the rocks threatened to slide from under his feet once more.
Less then 1.6 hours later they were back on the ship, and while the vast blue waters of the lakes reflecting the light of Sol GM2537 onto the scattered the red and blue streaked rocks was a sight to behold, nothing could compare to the smile on Juniors face as they appeared on the transporter pad.
"He was getting all grizzly with you guys gone so I thought I would bring him to meet you," Jenny grinned at them holding out the child for Jim to take.
"Hey little man," Jim grinned anxiety receding as he handed off his tricorder to Ensign Lills and took Junior into his arms.
"You must be careful of your hands," Spock protested eyebrows twitching downwards as he plucked Junior from Jim's arm's after the man only managed one cuddle.
"Hey that's not very nice," Jim protested right back as Junior settled against Spock's shoulder reaching a pudgy hand to tug at his ear lob.
"It was necessary to ensure you did not drop him," Spock replied nodding to his blue shirts as they left the transporter room to analyze their findings and write reports and what not.
"Where are you injured," Jim glaring at Jenny when she couldn't stop a chuckle at McCoy's words as he strode through the doors into the transporter room medical scanner at the ready.
"Bones everything is fine, I don't know why.."
"The Captain has grazed his hands," Spock cut him off before he could reassure the Doctor was mistaking.
"I knew it," Bones growled shoving his scanner at Jenny as he took Jim's hands into his without a pause, "I swear every time you leave this ship, and even when you don't.."
"It's a graze," Jim growled back even as he let the doctor unravel the bandages, " and I don't get injured every time I leave my ship."
"That is true," Spock inclined his head shifting Junior's hand away from his ear.
"Yeah see and Spock would know," Jim grinned.
"You are injured 88.4% of the time you leave the ship," Spock continued causing Jim's grin to fall into a frown.
"And that's basically every time," McCoy growled finally dropping Jim's hands, "Let's get you to sickbay."
"It's a graze," Jim protested again setting his feet as the doctor headed towards the door.
"And you got it on a planet we barely know anything about, which means you could have any number of nasty bacteria in those wounds," McCoy swung around grabbing Jim's wrist, "So your coming with me."
"Fine, alright no need to pull," Jim growled pulling his wrist from the doctor's grip, "I'll meet you on the Bridge before debrief," he said to Spock before placing a kiss on Junior's head, "And I'll see you after that."
"Is it really true?" Jenny asked looking curiously after the Captain and the Doctor as they disappeared into the corridor.
"Is what true Yeoman?" Spock inquired handing the gurgling Junior back to his nanny.
"The Captain is injured on 88% of away mission's," she clarified settling Junior in her arms.
"It is," Spock replied before moving towards the door, "If I am required I will be on the bridge."
"Can I ask what percentage of away missions you get injured on Mr. Spock?" Jenny asked tentatively.
"74.3%," Spock said after a pause before moving out the door.
"Oh," Jenny attempted a smile holding Junior a little closer.
"Best we get going too," she finally said nodding to the transporter tech as she headed back to the nursery trying not to worry too much about the fact that her young charge may end up without parents at the end of their voyage.
JUNIOR
"Wait what are you talking about?" Jenny's voice carried from the nursery as Jim entered his and Spock's quarters to pick up a new gold tunic before heading to the bridge. The Doctor had decided to commandeer his old one to test for pathogens and other nasties he could have collected from the rocks when he fell. Jim thought it was a little over kill when he'd just spent half an hour collecting blood and skin sampled before patching Jim's hands with the dermal generator.
"There's a rumor you're sleeping with the Captain," replied Uhura's matter of fact voice.
"Eww, that's just wrong," Jenny gagged, "He's married and he's like, he's like my father or something, just Eww."
"I'm not that old, " Jim said finding himself in the conversation stepping into the nursery.
"Captain?!" The woman exclaimed looking a little sheepish they had been caught.
"I'm only 30 you know," he scolded hands on his hips his eyes narrowing at the two women sitting in the arm chairs that had been brought in for Spock and Jim for Junior's reading time. Junior sat happily on Uhura's lap gumming the ear of a bright green stuffed rabbit.
"Really," Jenny looked shocked, her twinkling eyes giving away her joke.
"Yes really," Jim nodded tugging at the hem of his clean tunic a habit he may have picked up from Spock.
"You know I always thought he looked older then that," Uhura grinned at Jenny.
"Ga," Junior agreed.
"I do not and you know it," Jim glared turning to his son, "and you are so not allowed to agree."
"Ga," Junior replied abandoning his rabbit to reach for his daddy.
"You know you may just look tired," Uhura continued handing Junior up so Jim could take him, "Or it could be the wrinkles."
"That is definitely it, the tired part not he wrinkles part," Jim agreed pulling Junior's hand away before he started tugging at his ear. The kid had developed a real fascination with ears lately and it was not pleasant when he managed to get a good grip.
"Aren't you supposed to be on the bridge?" Jenny asked with a smile.
"Yeah, but I needed a new shirt," he replied having to pulling Junior's hand back once again, this time causing Junior to grizzle annoyed he could not reach his goal, "Oh and don't worry about the rumor I'll get it cleared up," Jim reassured her.
"At least I know what Jeff was talking about," she looked down at her lap losing her smile.
"What do you mean?" Uhura asked her voice lowering in curiosity and sympathy at Jenny's sudden drop in mood.
"He broke up with me two days ago," Jenny replied after a pause, " said something about being a screen, but I guess he heard the rumor."
"But I thought the rumor only started yesterday when.." Jim trailed off once again thwarting Junior's attempts at reaching for his ear.
"No, no," Uhura shook her head, "It's been going on longer then that, but I thought you knew."
"If I knew I would have done something much sooner," Jim frowned, "I'm sorry Yeoman, if I'd known I wouldn't have allowed it to go on so long."
"It's ok Captain, it's not your fault," Jenny shook her head.
"If he believed something so stupid then he definitely wasn't worth your time," Uhura patted Jenny's knee trying to get the woman to cheer up a little.
"Yeah, that, gar oww," Jim jerked his head back as Junior changed tactics and went for his other ear while he was distracted.
Neither of the women could hold back their laughter as their Captain attempted to wrestle his son's hand away from his ear and considering the child had the strength of a full Vulcan baby it was not going well.
"Here," Jenny finally stood up tickling Junior behind his tiny pointed ear casing the child to giggle and let go as he tried to avoid Jenny's hand.
"Oh ow," Jim rubbed at his abused ear with his free hand, "Thanks."
"No problem's Captitan," Jenny saluted with a small smile back on her face, "That's what I'm here for."
The chirp of the comm stop him form saying anything else," Kirk here," He answered once Jenny had taken Junior.
"Captain, debrief is about to begin," Spock asked over the comm.
"Ok Mr. Spock I'll be there presently, Kirk out." he replied signing off.
"Duty calls," He nodded to the ladies tickling Junior under the chin, "We'll be seeing you for dinner right Lieutenant," Jim turned to Uhura.
"At 2000," she nodded, "Spock wanted to go over the radio frequencies the plant specimen we collected resonated at."
"Should be fascinating," Jim grinned leaving the women to their socializing.
JUNIOR
An: Ok guys hope you all enjoyed the away mission and Junior's developing telepathy.
A big Thank you to everyone that has reviewed, but I'm going to be naggy and ask for more. I really would like to hear what more people think and what I might be missing. So PLEASE PLEASE REVIEW.
And I also wanted to reply to a guest that reviewed chapter 4 planet curious. Thanks for the review it made me really think about Planet curious but I still can't think of any consequences for the kidnapping alien's since they weren't part of the federation and federation ships couldn't get to them. I would love to hear any ideas you may have had for what could have happened. But I will point out that after Jim returned it wasn't all sunshine between him and Spock they were having problems in the next chapter but you may not have read that far when you reviewed so no worries. :P Thanks again for the review.
