Title: Vacation
author: Cindy Ryan
When Nyota Uhura opened her eyes she blinked against the lighting of sickbay. She forced her eyes to remain open and the pain in her head gradually went away. As she mentally tested her body to see of any other injuries all she found was an all around dull ache. Most likely thanks to the pain meds Dr McCoy was giving her. Either way the pain was a good thing; it meant she had survived. Something that for a few moments in the water Nyota hadn't thought she would do.
"Nyota?"A familiar voice called softly from Uhura's left.
Turning Uhura smiled seeing Spock sitting in a chair. Her heart ached seeing her lover. Knowing it was her stupidity that had caused his pain. Spock had dark circles under his eyes and his skin was paler than normal. The half-Vulcan had the same stoic composure he always did but Spock's eyes told Uhura of what he had endured the past few days. He allowed her to see the worry, sadness and anxiety before it was hidden away.
"Spock."Uhura replied her voice hoarse."How long?"
"Almost four days."Spock responded as he moved closer to Nyota's bed. "Dr. McCoy saved your life twice. The creature you encountered was poisonous. We nearly lost you."
Nyota reached with her left hand and took Spock's left hand in hers and squeezed it. "I'm sorry."
Spock raised an eyebrow. "For what?"
"I should've researched more...should've been aware of the dangers."Nyota replied quietly her voice gaining strength.
"It is done."Spock said with a shake of his head. "I am just grateful you are alright."
Nyota pulled their entwined hands to her face and leaned against them closing her eyes. Suddenly very tired the communications officer allowed her eyes to remain closed and she drifted off to sleep.
When Uhura awoke the second time Spock was gone and Leonard McCoy was bustling around her biobed checking her vitals.
"Don't worry he'll be back."Bones stated gruffly. "Practically had to threaten sedation to get Spock to get some sleep. Damn stubborn Vulcan."
Nyota smiled. "Thank you."
Leonard waved his right hand in a dismissive motion. "What doctors do take care of the crew."
"I wasn't just talking about Spock."Uhura commented.
Bones stopped and sat down on the right side of Nyota's bed. "I'm just glad I was there. However, next time you decide to take a swim..."
Nyota smiled. "I'll check the animal life first. Thank you, Leonard."
McCoy stood. "You're welcome. Get some rest."
Before sleep claimed Nyota once more she couldn't help but think of how lucky she was to have such good friends. Friends that had become family. A family she was grateful for and couldn't picture her life without.