A/N: Oops, another long chapter. Sometimes I can't stop my mind from traveling in the stars. Spock messes up, again and Kirk helps in negotiations that leave him frustrated. Any remarks are welcomed.
Chapter Fourteen
Repairs and Reconcile
After the battle with Krete the Enterprise slowly limped it's way to Starbase 24. It had taken ten days to reach the star base with hopes that they had the parts they needed.
Ensigns Kirk and Spock were still on work detail, but had survived the three long days in the brig. One of the jobs they were assigned to was helping Mr. Scott's crew bring aboard crates of equipment and parts and help organize the repairs inside and outside of the Enterprise. After twelve hour days, they just wanted to eat and sleep.
Joanna and Lucas spent little time together in those days. Lucas was ashamed of being in the brig and couldn't bring himself to face her. She was still very busy in sick bay.
Spock Jr. avoided Anastasia for the same reasons. As he was returning to his cabin he had a call come over the intercom to report to Commander Spock's office. He retraced his steps and buzzed the door on his father's office.
"Enter."
Mr. Spock stood from his desk and said, "Sit down, Spock."
"Yes, sir." SJ could smell something good coming from his father and Christine's private quarters.
"Lt. Commander Sedgwick sent me a report on your radar and the radio on your plane. It was found to have some damage to it."
"Yes, sir, it would cut in and out."
"Lucky for you."
"Yes, I didn't think the Lt. Commander believed us."
"However, nothing was wrong with Ensign Kirk's radio or radar."
"That's good because he found Mick, sir."
Mr. Spock stood and flipped on the intercom. "Christine?"
"Yes, Spock."
"Come, please."
The door to their personal quarters opened. SJ stood and greeted her. "Good evening, Christine."
"Evening, SJ."
Spock said, "Christine has prepared a Vulcan meal and she wishes for you to join us for dinner."
SJ looked at his father and asked, "And you sir?"
Christine sternly looked at Spock. "I would also like you to join us."
SJ had seen the look pass between the two. "I'm sorry, I can't stay, sir. I have already eaten, but I also have to report to duty at 0400 hours. Thank you for the invitation, Christine, perhaps another time."
He then addressed his father, "Is there anything else, sir?"
"No, you are dismissed." SJ nodded to Christine and left.
"Spock, you should be ashamed of yourself."
He raised an eyebrow and looked at her and said, "I am unaware of any reason to be ashamed, Christine."
"Spock…you can serve yourself dinner. I'm going to bed."
She went into their quarters and Spock followed her and said, "Christine."
He reached for her arm and quietly said, "Speak, tell me what I did wrong."
Christine had been trying to have more patience with her husband when dealing with SJ, but sometimes he just didn't get it.
"Why did you say that 'I' wished for him to stay for dinner?"
"Did you not want him to stay for dinner?" he asked.
"Spock, you should have said 'we'. He doesn't care if I want him to stay, he wants to hear it from you."
He stood in front of Christine and rubbed her arms, "Is this another instance where I should be addressing his human side?"
"Yes, Spock."
Spock sighed the rare sigh and slowly shook his head. "I am not very good at this."
"Spock, remember when we were in Paris?"
He smiled and pulled her to his chest. He put his chin on the top of her head. "Yes, my wife."
"You never hesitated to show me affection or smile at my funny moments."
"It was a private time, Christine."
She pulled away and looked in his brown eyes, "Your son, needs those times, too."
"I see," he paused, "perhaps I should go to his cabin and speak to him?"
"Before you go, let me send a plate with his favorite dinner." She ladled out pol tar soup and a creamy side dish of sansodora pate and his favorite, Arte ek Simpome.
Spock's arms were full of containers, "Christine, are you sure you've not forgotten anything?"
"And you better be nice to him. And don't you dare say, 'yes, dear'."
Spock gave her a confused look and left for his son's quarters. He buzzed S J's door and waited.
"Enter."
SJ was coming out of the shower and was in his night clothes. "Father, I wasn't expecting you."
"Yes, I've brought you dinner." He handed the containers to SJ and told him what was in each.
"Tell, Christine, thank you."
SJ put them in his small refrigerator.
"Spock, can we talk for a moment."
"Yes, sir, have a seat." They sat at the table across from each other.
"Spock, I have been neglectful."
"How so, Father?"
Spock took a deep breath and looked at his son, "I forget that you are three quarters human and I have neglected your emotional needs. I want you and I…to be…closer than my father and I am. It does not come natural to me and I must recognize the times that I have failed you."
SJ held up his hands, he was uncomfortable with his father's confession, but he also craved his fathers approval and it angered him that he needed it.
"Father, it's okay…"
Spock interrupted, "No, Spock, it is not okay. As I age, wisdom and lessons I have not learned in my past, haunt me. I can continue to be selfish and tell myself that giving you my approval is unnecessary, but truly in my heart I feel your pain."
"Father, I…." SJ stood and looked down at his feet.
Spock stood and said, "Spock, at times we must deny the Vulcan side that teaches us to suppress our emotions. Others in the Vulcan world would not understand that, but I owe it to you to recognize that you are more human than Vulcan."
"Father, it is so weary to have two sides that constantly battle each other, yet I crave the peace that my Vulcan side allows me."
"Yes, son, I know that well. You have an advantage though, you are more human than I. Let your human side show. I will not judge you, and if in private you see a more 'human' side from me, understand, that I love Christine and I have to nurture her, too."
SJ said, "Sir, …."
"Spock, there is no need to call me 'sir' in private."
"Yes, sir, I mean yes, Father. Thank you. Thank you very much."
Spock nodded.
"Father?"
"Yes?"
"Tell Christine, thank you for the food. I'm starving," and he smiled.
He raised an eyebrow and said, "Yes. I will, good night."
Spock returned to his quarters. Christine met him at the door.
He saw the look on her face, "Yes?"
"Oh, Spock, I hope you were patient with him."
"I did the best that I could. He said to thank you for dinner, because he was starving."
She smiled and put her arms around his neck. She slowly kissed his lips and he said, "Now, may I have my dinner?"
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"Captain Kirk to Starbase Control."
"Yes, Captain, this is Commodore Phips."
"Sir, I've just learned from my engineer it will take at least four more days for repairs to be finished. I'd like to give my crew a shore leave if that is permissible to you."
"That would be fine, Captain. We will welcome your crew while you are here."
"Thank you, Commodore. Kirk out."
"Lt. Uhura, can you arrange with department heads the schedule for shore leave? Divide them up into one day with four groups."
"Yes, Captain, I will take care of it."
The Captain walked up to Spock, "Do you wish to take one of those days with Christine?"
"For myself, it is not needed, but I will ask her, Captain."
"Good, I'll let you know what day I'll go."
The Captain went to sick bay to find Miriam. Dr. McCoy was coming from his office, "Hello, Jim, how are you?"
"Good, Bones. I'm looking for Miriam."
"Around the corner. You used to come see me when you came to sick bay, now it's Miriam you come to see," he teased.
"Well, Bones, she's better looking than you."
"Captain?" Miriam asked, "How are you?"
Bones said grinning, "I'll leave you two alone."
"We're planning shore leave, can you go with me?"
"Yes, Captain. When do we go?'
He grinned and said, "How about tomorrow. We have 24 hours. I have some work to catch up on today. I'll meet you in the Transporter Room at 0700 hours."
Miriam looked around and quickly gave him a kiss on the cheek, "Aye, Captain, I'll be waiting."
The twinkle in his eye sparkled with anticipation. Kirk returned to his office and began some reports. He contacted Mr. Spock and they worked out a schedule for shore leave.
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The following morning the Captain and Miriam beamed over to Starbase 24. The new starbase was located in an isolated area of the galaxy. Every type of part that a star ship could need was in stock and qualified mechanics to assist in repairing the ships. The most amazing was the artistry of the design of the star base. Pods connecting in the center grew foods from around the galaxy. Gardens containing many flowers and trees grew in a forest of green. Trails were created for crewmen to hike to a giant waterfall. Of course an unending amount of restaurants and shops for entertainment were included in the design.
Miriam asked the Captain, "Did you have time for breakfast, Jim?"
"Just coffee, how about you?'
"I haven't eaten, let's go find a café and plan our day. Here is a diagram of the star base. There is no way we'll cover it all, today."
"Please tell me we're not shopping most of the day?"
Miriam squeezed his hand and said, "You need to enjoy yourself, I wouldn't think of dragging you shopping."
"There is a god," he joked.
As they enjoyed a quick meal, the Captain teased her about settling in on the ship so well. "Are you enjoying yourself?"
"Jim, I am. I don't know what the difference is this time, but I'm more settled," she sipped her coffee and touched his hand, "Jim?"
"Yes?"
"I have some good news."
"Oh?"
"My divorce papers came through and it's final," she grinned.
He looked up quickly and placed his hands on each side of her face. He leaned across the table and kissed her softly. "You're happy," he stated.
She nodded her head yes and tears came to her eyes. "I'm so relieved, you just don't know."
"Miriam, I…."
"Don't say it, Jim, not yet."
He nodded and they discussed where they would explore first. They chose a shuttle tour of the base from the outside and landed near the flower gardens. They spent hours of walking and talking. The area was so large, they only ran into one other couple.
The Captain looked at the map and he knew they were close to the waterfalls. "Come on, this way."
As they broke through the trees and plants they could hear the pounding of the water fall as it cascaded over the rocks and pooled in the small river. The temperature was cooler and less humid.
"Oh, Jim, it is beautiful."
White and red rhododendrons were in bloom around the falls. The rocks shimmered from the mist of the water. Further away wild rose bushes bloomed in huge masses of deep reds and white. Plants of unknown names flourished all around the area.
The Captain led Miriam to a soft grassy area near a cluster of rocks. He looked around and saw no other people. "Good, we're alone," he grinned at her. They sat and the Captain leaned back in the grass pulling her with him. "The sky is even blue," he noticed.
He kissed her and they enjoyed the warmth and the mist from the falls. He put his hands under his head and Miriam snuggled up next to him. He soon fell asleep.
She relaxed in his arms while he slept. She worried that he never completely rested. His responsibilities were enormous and she loved him more than life itself. After an hour she shifted her weight and he woke up.
"Miriam, I fell asleep, didn't I?"
"You were snoring, you must have been exhausted."
He sat up and rubbed his eyes. He pulled her to him and said, "Now that I'm rested, I have more energy," he kissed her and she tried to wiggle away. "Oh, no you don't," he laughed. He kissed her neck and she melted in his arms.
He mumbled against her neck, "I think we better leave." She smiled and they stood to leave. He hugged her tight and then led her down a different trail back to the head of the trail.
Kirk said, "I'm starving, let's get something to eat."
After a meal they enjoyed a comedy show in one of the theatres. It was a parody on commanding officers and disobedient crewmen. It left everyone nodding their heads and laughing until their stomach muscles were sore.
After the show they walked hand in hand. He stopped and leaned down and kissed her cheek.
"What's that for?"
He answered, "Just because," he paused. "How about a night cap and we can stay here or go back to the Enterprise."
"Sounds, good." They enjoyed sitting together and talking when they wanted. It was nice to spend time with someone and not have to fill each moment with conversation.
"Jim shall we return to the Enterprise?"
"Is that what you'd like?"
"Yes, if you don't mind."
They beamed aboard and finished the day together.
The following day Dr. McCoy took his daughter Joanna and Dr. Anastasia Belham for a tour of the starbase. Lucas and SJ were still fulfilling their work detail and would miss shore leave.
Mr. Spock and Christine also enjoyed the day together. The scientist in Mr. Spock enjoyed the gardens and Christine loved the quiet and beauty of the falls and the gardens.
All returned without incident after four days of shore leave. Mr. Scott returned to the bridge and said, "Captain, we are patched together and ready to depart when you are."
"Thank you, Mr. Scott."
The Captain flipped on the inter-ship communicator, "All hands. I'm proud that you returned with no incidents. I hope you enjoyed your respite. Prepare to depart. Captain out."
"Mr. Chekov, plot us a course to rendezvous with the USS Standard at planet Canton 54."
"Aye, Captain."
"Mr. Sulu prepare to depart from Starbase 24."
"Aye, sir."
"All ahead, slow."
"Aye, sir," Sulu said.
The Enterprise was released from her moorings and sped off to meet with the USS Standard.
Lt. Uhura said, "Captain, new orders are coming through Starfleet from Admiral Drake, sir."
"Pipe it through, Lieutenant."
"Aye, sir."
"Captain Kirk, how are you?"
"Fine, sir and you?"
"Couldn't be better. I'm just reminding you that you have six months left on your tour. You're almost three months away from Earth. After you meet with the USS Standard, prepare to return to Earth by way of Aliston 12 and pick up two scientists and bring them back with you. We have a conference planned when you return to Earth."
"Yes, sir, we'll see you in about six months."
"Good day, Captain."
"Kirk out."
Kirk rubbed his temples and looked at Spock. He went to his console and said, "Spock you have to save me from these tiresome meetings. They are a waste of time."
"Yes, Captain, I am aware of your impatience with meetings. I will do my best to get us out of them, if I can."
Kirk said, "I don't know, maybe I'm getting too old for this."
Spock raised his eye brow and asked, "And what would you do, Captain."
Kirk shook his head and said laughing, "Hang myself from boredom."
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In three days they met up with the USS Standard. Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock were beamed aboard for special meetings with Captain John Spencer and his first officer, Commander Susan Wright.
"Welcome Jim and Commander Spock. This is my first officer, Commander Susan Wright."
Kirk smiled and said, "Hello, John. Commander Wright."
They both nodded. "Jim, come on we'll start going over the information that Starfleet delivered to me."
They went to a conference room and Captain Spencer displayed the orders from Starfleet on the computer screens. The three main governing powers were in disagreement with each other and had talked about not allowing Starfleet and other ships to enter their orbit. It was an important port to many ships for supplies and for the mining of minerals that helped other planets survive.
Captain Kirk said, "They have a monopoly in this part of the galaxy."
Captain Spencer answered, "I agree. If we can't get these three governing powers to agree with each other, we'll have a gap in the supply train. Too bad we couldn't find another supporting planet that would give them some competition."
Mr. Spock spoke, "That is an unattainable proposition, Captain. We have surveyed this area intensely and there are no habitable planets to consider."
Captain Kirk said, "Well, shall we try diplomacy for now?"
Spencer answered, "We've tried before, but Starfleet expects us to solve this problem. I've set up meetings with us for this afternoon. We'll beam down and see what we can accomplish."
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The talks began with a diplomatic show of brightly colored costumed groups of people. The Canton's were a very traditional people and they loved their ceremonies. The first day went without one talk at the table. The next four days amounted to a lot of yelling and discussing about who held the position of making the final decision.
Captain Kirk had had enough, "Gentlemen and ladies, we are getting no where fast. I suggest that if it comes down to a tie we will draw straws. Short straw wins and that delegate will make the final decision. Let's end for the day and return the day after tomorrow with a list of solutions."
The three discussed among themselves each secretly hoping to draw the short straw.
Captain Spencer stood and said, "Good day. We will meet at the same time, the day after tomorrow."
Starfleet's representatives all stood and left. Captain Kirk spoke quietly to Captain Spencer. "This is not working. I can't stand the bickering."
"I know, Jim. They are a hard headed people. I'll see you back here," they shook hands and beamed aboard their ships.
Kirk said to Spock, "I'm going to sick bay to get something for this headache and lay down for a while. Can you relieve Mr. Sulu for an hour?"
"Yes, Captain."
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Once in sick bay the Captain looked for Dr. Joanna, he wasn't in the mood for a lecture from Dr. McCoy.
"Captain, take this and you should feel better soon. I suggest you lay down for a few minutes, too. I take it the talks are not going well?"
"It took two days to decide what chair to sit in. No, it's not going well at all."
Joanna laughed and said, "Dads, I don't envy you your position."
He smiled at his daughter in-law and asked, "Can we keep this from your father?" Motioning to the pills.
"No, sir, it will be in your record."
He playfully cuffed her chin, "You're becoming too much like your father."
"Thank you, Dads."
He chuckled and left. On the way out Dr. Anastasia Belham met him, "Captain, how are the talks going?"
"Not well, they're a bunch of idiots."
"Captain?"
"Sorry, it's been very frustrating."
"Sir, could I help?"
He looked at the young woman in front of him and asked, "How much experience have you had in negotiations?"
"Not a lot, but I taught the doctors on Vulcan about heart surgery on humans."
"Yes, I remember."
"Sir, I'm not only a surgeon, I do specialize in alien cultures and traditions. Perhaps I could listen in and give suggestions?"
"I'll think about it, Dr. Belham and I will get back with you later."
"Yes, sir."
The Captain went to his quarters and laid down for an hour. He returned to the bridge and took his chair. Ensigns Spock and Mick Cooley were at the helm and navigation positions.
Spock stood by the Captain and said, "Captain, I've been reviewing the tapes of the last few days."
"Yes?"
"They never get down to what the argument with each other is about."
"Any suggestions?"
"Short of threatening them will removal of our patrols, I can think of no other option at this point."
"Dr. Belham approached me in sick bay and offered to sit in on the meetings and offer any new ideas."
"We need fresh minds at this point, Captain. I do believe they are more difficult to deal with than Humans."
Kirk looked at his first officer and said, "Thank you, Spock, I'll take that as a compliment." He flipped on the intercom and said, "Dr. Belham to the bridge."
"Yes, sir."
Shortly after Dr. Belham arrived. The Captain handed her a copy of the tapes. "Take these minutes of the meetings and listen to them tonight and tomorrow and see what you can come up with. We'll beam down in two days and start again."
"Yes, sir." She glanced towards SJ before she left.
Kirk whispered, "It's okay to walk over and say hello to him."
She blushed and said, "Thank you, sir."
SJ looked up and said, "Afternoon, Dr. Belham?'
"Hello, SJ. I can't meet with you tonight, I have to prepare for the meetings. Later in the week?"
His face softened and he whispered, "I'll be waiting."
She touched his shoulder and left.
The following afternoon Anastasia contacted the Captain, "Captain, I've gone over the tapes and I see why you were so frustrated."
"Thank you, Doctor."
"But, I believe I found out what the main problem is."
"Go on."
"The Canton's don't always get along with each other, but there was an interracial marriage of one governors daughter to another governors son. It has caused a diplomatic up-roar. They are adamant about keeping their blood lines separate, but the unlawful marriage of two of their own has disrupted the ancestral legacy that is part of their culture."
"I see," the Captain responded.
"We have to remember they are much like the kings and queens of old European times. To marry another race and without the consent of their delegates, is probably the worst thing they have experienced in decades."
"But they are all Cantons."
"Doesn't matter, sir. They are three complete different races. You may not see the physical difference but they are of different blood lines and make up."
"Suggestions, Doctor?"
"Sir, I suggest we bring Nurse Christine and Ensign Spock to the meetings. Perhaps, we can convince them that it is not the end of their world and they should not fear inter-racial marriages."
"Good, Dr. Belham. We'll all meet in one hour in the conference room and plan our strategy."
"Yes, sir. I can contact Nurse Christine."
"Good, Ensign Spock is here on the bridge. We'll see you in one hour."
"Yes, sir."
The five officers met and discussed the different approaches they could try. They decided speaking about their history would be good examples of a mixed marriage, and show that it does not diminish their species.
Captain Kirk informed Captain Spencer of their plans.
They met with the Canton's the following day and waited to see if they had come up with a solution on their own. None had been made.
The day continued with suggestions from the Starfleet officers when finally Captain Kirk said, "Gentlemen, we brought Dr. Anastasia Belham here today to see if she could help in the discussion. As I said earlier she specializes in Alien cultures. She has some information she'd like to offer to you. If we may?"
The three governors nodded their approval.
Dr. Belham stood and cleared her throat, "Esteemed Governors, after doing some research, I have discovered there has been a challenge to your bloodline."
The governors squirmed in their seats as they were embarrassed to have the inter-racial marriage be brought up in these talks.
Dr. Belham continued and asked Commander Spock and Ensign Spock to stand. "Commander Spock, will you tell the governors your story?"
"Sirs, I am a product of a mixed marriage. Obviously I am Vulcan, but my other half is Human. My father is in the High Command on Vulcan and against the wishes of his parents he married my mother, a teacher. I was raised Vulcan and I can say it was difficult for myself and my parents. But the ability to become immersed in two cultures has benefited all of us."
The governors spoke among themselves and were amazed at his admission.
"Dr. Belham spoke again, "Thank you, sir, and now Ensign Spock."
SJ stood, "I am Commander Spock's, son. My father married my mother who was full Human. They shared a short marriage before my mother was killed in an accident. I was barely five and my Father allowed me to be raised by his parents. He was in the service and was unable to take me with him. I also endured a lot of prejudice in my schooling. It was not easy, but my grandparents nurtured and supported me. I have experienced the best of both worlds. I also joined Starfleet and serve with my father on the Enterprise."
There was quiet discussion among the governors.
Dr. Belham asked Nurse Christine to stand. "Mr. Spock will you introduce Christine?"
"Gentlemen and ladies, this is my wife Christine, we have been married for a year. We serve on the Enterprise together with several other mixed-racial couples. Is it always easy? No, but the advantages out weigh the difficulties."
Dr. Belham nodded to Christine and she said, "I have worked with Mr. Spock for years and we have learned to be patient with each other because of our differences. We have the opportunity to teach each other about our cultures and what a better way to learn than to be immersed in a life together."
Dr. Belham said, "Governors, as you see this is quite common in our world. We have learned to accept the idea of mixed marriages. Their children have the opportunity to be rooted in two cultures, learning both religions, celebrations and languages. By their own admission it has not always been easy, and because your son and your daughter have fallen in love and were married without your permission, they too will find life difficult, especially if you do not support them. I sense that this is the root of your disagreements. I suggest that you Governor Pol and Governor Santi discuss your options. Once this discussion has concluded, I'm sure these other differences will go away."
A quiet calm was felt in the room. Captain Spencer spoke first, "Governors, we will leave you to deliberate among yourselves and return to our ships. Please contact us, if you need our assistance."
The three governors stood and the Starfleet officers left for their respective ships.
In the transporter room the Captain turned to Dr. Belham and said, "Thank you, Doctor. Well done."
"Sir, it is only because we have three witnesses to show that blending can be done successfully with support."
Kirk smiled and said, "All right people to your posts. Now we must wait."
SJ waited to walk with Anastasia back to sick bay. "What do you think, Anastasia?"
"I don't know, SJ. I know we gave them lots of things to think about, but you know the first time things change it's harder for everyone to accept it. I feel sorry for that couple, the prejudice they will face is going to test their love."
SJ looked around and quickly gave her a kiss. "SJ, we're on duty."
"Yes, I just want you to know I am proud of you," he smiled.
"Thank you."
"I'm scheduled back on the flight deck. See you tonight?"
"I'll be waiting."
The Captain and Mr. Spock spoke on the bridge about the events of the day.
"If Dr. Belham pulls this off, she's got a new job in my book," Captain Kirk said.
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Later in the evening Lt. Uhura said, "Captain, a call is coming in from Captain Spencer."
"Put him through, Lieutenant."
"Jim, I've received a call from the Governors. They'd like us to come tomorrow at 1100 hours."
"I'll see you tomorrow, John. Kirk out."
He looked to Spock and said, "I hope it's good news, I'm out of ideas."
The following day, Dr. Belham joined Captain Kirk and Commander Spock. They were greeted with fan fare usually saved for presidents and high admirals. They took their seats as a feast of traditional foods were served.
After the meal the three governors stood and faced the Starfleet officers.
"We have come to an agreement, ladies and gentlemen. It was through your examples that we have decided to take another look at the marriage of my son and Governor Pol's daughter. We hope that with our support they will have a happy life together. The other differences we have are minute and as Dr. Belham has said they are no longer important. We are sorry to have dragged Starfleet into our disagreements, and we appreciate you showing us that an inter-racial marriage is not the worst thing we will face. It gives us hope that our separate races will continue, but a blending of all races can be a good thing. We have signed new contracts between us and we will once again allow ships to orbit here and continue business as usual. Again, I apologize for our short sightedness."
The Starfleet officers shook hands all around and returned to their ships.
Once in the transporter room Captain Kirk said to Dr. Belham, "Well done, Doctor. I'll have to speak to your commanding officer and put in a good word for you."
She smiled and said, "Thank you, Captain."
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That night Captain Kirk was working in his office. He glanced at his security camera and saw Miriam pacing outside his door. He stood at his door with arms crossed and the door slid open, "Have you made up your mind, yet?'
Miriam jumped and said, "My mind, sir?
"Yes, are you coming in or just pacing the hall way?"
"Oh, yes, sorry, Captain."
"Come in," he stepped aside.
Miriam walked in and stood near his desk.
"Business or personal, Miriam?"
"Personal, Jim."
"Come on in," he flipped on the do not disturb sign and led her to his private quarters. He turned to her as she paced the room. "Miriam, come here."
She looked up and he had his arms open, "Talk to me."
She walked into his arms and sighed as he held her, "This is the best place in the world to be."
He kissed the top of her head and said, "What's troubling you?"
"Nothing really, I…."
"Yes?"
She paused and closed her eyes, "I, Jim, we…."
"Miriam, you're driving me crazy, come sit down."
He pulled her to the couch, "Whatever it is, just spit it out."
"Jim, I have come to a conclusion, but I don't want you to get the wrong idea."
"Yes?"
"I told you that I needed time to heal from my marriage to Dr. LaDuke…."
"Yes, I'm waiting."
She leaned back and looked him in the eye, "You do love me, don't you?"
Kirk said, "Yes, you know that."
"I want you to know that I'm ready."
Kirk's mind spun a little. He said, "For?"
"This is so hard, I feel like I…."
Kirk gently squeezed her shoulders, "Let me help you out. Are you trying to tell me that if I asked you to marry me, you would now say, yes?"
"Yes."
The Captain pulled her to her feet and went down on one knee. "Miriam I have loved you for a very long time. Being married to the captain of the Enterprise will be difficult and I want you to know that there will be many times when I won't be available to you. There will be times when I will have to officially give you orders and I expect you to follow them. Now saying all of that, with all my faults, would you consider spending the rest of your life with me, and marry me?"
Tears fell from her eyes as she said, "Yes, Jim, I love you and I want to spend the rest of our lives together, no matter where it takes us."
He stood and looked down at her, "I am so happy. I have no ring, but when we return to Earth, I'd like you to pick one out."
She shook her head, no. "I'd like to get married right away, and find a ring later."
"Well, I guess we'll have the chaplain marry us," he smiled, "and when would you like this to take place?"
"Whenever we can arrange it."
Kirk gently kissed her lips and knew this was the woman for him. The Enterprise would have to take second place and he hoped he could be fair to both of them.
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The next day Captain Kirk went to Spock and asked him to be his best man. Only because he knew Spock so well, he saw the tiniest smile appear.
Spock said, "I would be honored, Jim." They shook hands.
"I have to go see Bones before word gets out, then I'll announce it to the crew. We'd like to get married this weekend."
"Captain, I'm pretty sure everyone will be expecting the news."
"That obvious, were we?"
"Yes, sir."
Kirk smiled and left. He found McCoy swearing in his office looking for a particular document on his computer.
"Jim, I swear this computer knows when I sit in front of it, it goes wonky."
"Wonky, Bones?"
"Yes, look at this screen, does it look normal to you?" He spun the monitor around and print was jumping and not standing still."
"Bones, you pushed the diagram and table button, It's trying to make sense out of paragraphs and not numbers. Here," the captain fixed the problem and laughed.
McCoy mumbled, "Stupid computers."
"Bones, I'm here to ask you something."
"Yes?"
"I'm getting married and I want you to be my second. Spock is my best man, but I need a second. Will you?"
"Well, Jimmy boy she wore you down."
"Bones, it's more the other way. Well?"
McCoy's blue eyes sparkled, "Of course I will, I'm happy for both of you."
The Captain said, "I'm making arrangements with the chaplain for this Saturday."
"Let me know the time, I'll be there," he grinned.
"Nothing big, just like Spock's."
"The crew will want to celebrate."
"Another time, Bones, we have work to do."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The Captain was dazzling in his dress whites and Miriam simply glowed as Mr. Scott walked her down the aisle.
Christine and her friend Maria stood up for Miriam and Mr. Spock in his dress blues with Dr. McCoy in his were handsome and proud men.
The nuptials were heard over the inter-ship intercom and a loud roar was heard at the end of the vows.
A private dinner was shared with the attendees. Ensign Kirk and Ensign Spock were included. After the meal and toasts, Lucas walked up to his father and Miriam.
"Congratulations, Miriam and Dad."
Kirk shook his hand and said, "Thank you, son."
"May I kiss the bride, sir?"
"Yes, he may," Miriam said first.
Lucas softly kissed his step-mother on the cheek and said, "Welcome to the family, Miriam."
Miriam glowed and said, "Thank you, Lucas."
The newly weds spent 24 hours totally alone with orders from Mr. Spock to not even enter the hallway.
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