Hey All, Happy Thanksgiving!
As a gift, you get a new chapter. Let you know what you think.
There are two flash backs in this chapter. If you see
_(O(O)O)_
It means flashback time!
Chapter 8:
Bad taste
Uhura, determined and motivated, had been going through coded messages all day, translating and correlating various respond teams, and after several hours of this, she was waiting for her fingers to start bleeding, as they were already hurting. Granted, she would just be exhausted, working through the night with only an hour or so of rest. Sleep was beckoning for her, but she wasn't going to stop. She couldn't stop as this was the only thing she could do, and she had to do something. Starfleet was attacked. Her home was attacked. Not only that, Admiral Pike, her commanding officer, was in a coma with no idea of when or if he would wake up. The very thought burned Uhura.
At first, Uhura didn't know what to make of the man, having only spoken to the man a few times prior to being under his command. Even back at the academy, she had only seen him in passing, though she had heard of the man. He was a no-nonsense kind of man but also fair. Granted, that went out the door with Kirk. Anyone who was anyone could see that Pike treated Kirk differently. In the academy, he pushed Kirk harder than anyone, refusing to allow him to step out of line even for a second; however, the second someone took a shot at Kirk, Pike cut them down at the knees like any father would. The Admiral would refute it—not that he would deny Kirk-, but it was clear to anyone with functioning eyes that he loved Kirk like a son. He just turned into an irate papa bear, which was something he would deny.
Yet, this what Uhura expected to see, when he took over the Enterprise from Kirk. They all thought Captain Pitts was bad, but Uhura had assumed Pike would be worse. Not riding them into the ground and not letting them back up until they were bloody worse, but she thought he would be frosty, making them jump for hoops for what happened to Kirk— for what they did to Jim. She was prepared for it, believing they deserved it. Yet, there was none of that. Pike, all smiles, never treated anyone with anything less than respect. He tried to de-program what Pitt had drilled into them, and while doing this, he didn't bring up Kirk, besides when he tried to get Spock out of his hard-coded shell. For that, Uhura had nothing but utter respected for Pike. He cared, truly cared.
This was why she was incensed that some nut case had almost killed Admiral Pike. No one hurt that man and got away with it without her foot going up his or her ass. This went with Spock and Kirk as well, even if the Captain didn't believe it. If anyone laid a hand on those three men, she was going to murder them. Rip them limb from limb. Pike was too kindhearted to die. Spock was too much of a logical, self-sacrificing idiot to die (don't tell him that), and Jim was too innocent for this world. God, how could she not see that before? Anyhow, the traitor didn't know the hell fire that was going to rain down on him. Uhura exhaled deeply, pushing back her anger. If she allowed herself to focus on that, she would go crazy and be useless, and she refused to be useless, not anymore.
Tucking her PADD under her arm, she decided to take one of her rare breaks and made her way to the hospital to visit Pike. Her nerves were high, which increased with every passing second that she was stopped by Starfleet security. She knew why they were checking, but it was—
"Nyota."
Uhura turned, hearing her name. "Monty," she replied, relaxing a bet, as she saw Scotty jogging toward her. She couldn't stop the smile that formed on her face. They may not have been on the same ship for some time, but she considered them friends, even after everything. Missing the past, they had kept in contact for the most part, checking in. "Hey."
"Where ye off too?" Scotty asked, a smile attempting to fight its way onto his face. However, it floundered quickly. Exhaustion was written all over him, mixed in with the dust and dirt that he was layered in.
"Hospital." She answered. "Going to check on Admiral Pike. I'm sure Kirk is there. I know Spock was heading there a few hours ago." She had only seen the Vulcan for a few minutes that morning. She had wanted to speak to Spock in depth, to check on him, but as he was in a hurry, he blew her off. Looking back at it, Uhura could see the uneasiness just beneath his skin, though Spock would deny it. Uhura didn't know what happened in that conference room when that traitor—she couldn't even stand to think his name- opened fire, but it wasn't good. The death toll was in double digits, and they were still clearing out the room, which looked like a war zone. Plus, Kirk was probably a mess- no, he was a mess. She heard how he nearly panicked over a stilled Pike, and Uhura couldn't fault the young Captain. Not with Pike laying on the floor bloody. And with Kirk in a state like that, she knew Spock would go in overdrive trying to protect Kirk.
Scotty's expression was hard. "I doubt Jim's at the hospital anymore. Knowin' him, he ran off halfcocked after I told him about the..." He stopped, shutting his mouth tight. He stared at her for a second. "I found somethin' in the rumble and he took it to the Admirals."
Uhura's hands tightened on her PADD. While Scotty and she kept up communication, he was tight lips regarding anything about Kirk. She wasn't sure if Kirk instructed him to or if Scotty was just being protective. It could go either way, as Monty was very protective of his Captain. Then again, that could be said of all of Jim's crew, something she wished she could say. She was disgusted with herself, with her past actions, and though there was nothing she could do to change it, she wanted nothing more than to make up for it. "Is…Is K-Jim okay?"
At first, Uhura didn't think Scotty would answer, as he stared at her, his eyes studying every part of her face. He was conflicted. "I don't think he is, Nyota." His voice was soft, almost too soft for her to hear. "He's angry."
"Is this more than just Pike?" Everyone was angry about Pike, she wanting to gut Harrison herself, but this felt like it was more. There had to be something else driving Jim's anger.
Scotty stared at her. His eyes softened just for a bit before he forced the hard expression back on his face. "It is."
"Monty," She said, trying to pull the answer out of him. "You're worry. What is it? Tell me."
"We've met Commander Harrison before." His voice was strained, almost like he was fighting with himself.
Uhura's eyes went large as different images flooded her thoughts. "Tell me-"
Pure anger flashed before Scotty's eyes before disappearing a second later. "It's unimportant."
Uhura gasped, fear creeping in. The fear in Scotty's eyes got her. He might be not saying it, but he was equally terrified and pissed. "Maybe—" She started but her communicator chirped drawing her attention. She pulled it out and gazed at the message, her mouth dropping. "I'm being ordered to report to the Enterprise." Her mind was spinning. "How? Admiral Pike can't…" What was going on? Who was taking command of the Enterprise? Why were they being sent out? Were they going after Harrison?
Scotty narrowed his eyes at her device before his own drew his focus. He glanced down at it, and his own expression morphed. "It's Jim. I gotta go."
Before Uhura had a chance to respond, Scotty was off. Whatever it was, it mustn't have been good.
*O*O*
Jim, a PADD tucked under his arm, made his way through the large, busy hanger to the Enterprise's shuttle. He ignored the hot flicker in his chest at the thought of taking command over a ship that was once his home. No matter how much time had passed, it was his ship. He had many firsts on that ship. It was odd going back now, but it didn't feel wrong. If he was being honest, it was a homecoming.
"Jim!"
Said man let out a loud, pained groan, spotting Bones jogging to him. Waving his tricorder in the air, the Doctor sported an angry scowl on his face, his eyes raking in Jim's injuries like he was seeing him for the first—even though he had seen Jim an hour ago. "Hey, Bones. What's up?" he asked, trying to be innocent as he could.
Bones shot him a nasty look. "Don't give me that look. First, you get a call and disappear, and then I get a bloody order to report to the Enterprise. What the hell is going on?" He gave Jim a hard once over.
Jim stared at Bones, returning the nasty glare Bones was nailing him with. "I'm taking the Enterprise," he said, evenly.
"You're what?" Bones said, forcing himself to breath.
"I'm taking the Enterprise and going off Harrison." He answered, his nails starting to dig into his hand.
"Who thought that was a good idea? And who the hell cleared you for that?" Bones placed a firm hand on Jim's arm, yanked him back. "Regardless of the ship, it's my duty as your CMO to clear you, and I already don't-."
"Get off," Jim yelled, shoving Bones off him. It came out more forceful and nastier than he intended, but he wasn't the biggest fan of people touching him without his permission. "If you wanted to check me out, you had all day at the hospital."
"That was before," Bones shot back. "Before you decided you were going to chase after Harrison using the Enterprise. Do I need to tell you how stupid that is?" Turning on his tricorder, he followed Jim step by step. "Does the Admiralty know about your relationship with him? Because I doubt that they would send you if they knew."
Jim still had a sour taste in his mouth from his 'fun' chat with Admiral Marcus. In all his years in Starfleet, he had never expected to hear those words from an Admiral. He never felt more less than than right now. Just thinking about those words made him sick to his stomach, and he was flooded with this overwhelming embarrassment and shame. A deep sob threatened to pop out of his mouth. His vison was spinning. "Admiral Marcus knows."
Bones' eyes widened. "You got to be kidding me." He bellowed, his voice carrying. "He knows?! And he's letting you go after Harrison?" He pulled back the tricorder for a second and just stared. The hand covering his face lid down his face in shock. "Is he nuts? I love you man, but this isn't going to turn out well. You aren't thinking clearly."
"I'm thinking clearly."
"Really? You sat at Pike's bedside, the closest thing to a father you ever had, and refused to move from his side. And here's the kicker, it was done by your Ex. Harrison was more than just a fling. No one is level headed after that." McCoy took a step toward Jim, a gentle hand hesitatingly hovering over Jim's shoulder. "You have to let yourself feel."
There was no denying the dread that was blooming in Jim's stomach. Marcus' words kicked his feet out from under him, and he didn't feel like he could climb back up. "I am."
Bone shot him a deadly look. "Not even 12 hours ago, you told me you were going to kill Harrison. Kill him! You shouldn't be tying your own shoes letting captaining a Starship right now."
Jim's nose flared, as he breathed heavily. He exhaled deadly a few times, anger filling him. "I'm fine."
"If you think you're fine, you-" Bones countered but unable to complete his sentence when Scotty came rushing at them.
Like Bones, he was sporting a heavy scowl. "Jim." Scotty called, his lungs begging for air.
"Scotty, what's going on?" Jim asked, shoving his anger aside.
Panting, Scotty straightened himself. "Those photon torpedoes, Jim." He was only able to get a few words out before he had to catch his breath again.
Jim gave Scotty an once able, confused to why and how he was bringing them up. Jim had sent a message to Scotty, briefly explaining that he was temporary taking command of the Enterprise and Spock was being reinstated as his First Officer for this assignment only. Scotty did not respond, but considering he was dancing in from of him like a madman, he was not happy. "How do you know about those?" He asked. That piece was not in the message.
"I may not be your First Officer on this one, but I see it as my duty to look after you, Jim." He said, holding a PADD.
Bones narrowed his eyes. "Wait a minute. Are we firing torpedoes at your ex?!" He glanced between the two. "OH, this is just great."
Jim shot Bones a dirty look. "Bones," he hissed.
"And what does Scotty mean that he's not your First Officer?" Bones added.
That was another thing he was dreading telling Bones. "Command Spock will be acting as my First Officer. Scotty has to remain behind for repairs on the Providence." Jim answered slowly.
Scotty was drilling into Jim. "The Klingons will see this as war, Jim, and we're not soldiers."
Bones slapped himself in the forehead. "Jim, you got to be kidding me. Now, we have to deal with two exes and the Klingons? And you don't see the issue in this?"
Jim didn't want to think about that. That didn't matter. It shouldn't matter. Ignoring Bones, he turned back to Scotty, "The area's uninhabited. There's only going to be one casualty."
"Killers?" Scotty's expression morphed, disturbed by what he was hearing. "This is a military operation. ls that what we are now? Because I thought we were explorers."
Why couldn't they understand why he was doing this? Harrison attacked Starfleet. He betrayed them all and because of that, Chris was lying in a hospital bed, fighting for his life. It didn't matter that Harrison was his ex—though it did make it worse-; that man was guilty. "Scotty, we are!" He took a deep breath, shaking his head as he turned from them. His voice broke as he added, "But Harrison killed hundreds of peoples."
"And he broke your heart, Sir." Scotty replied, being as gentle as he could.
Jim didn't know if he would say that. Harrison just tossed his heart aside, while Spock was the one to break it. "This has nothing to do with that." He looked over Scotty's head, refusing to look into his eyes fearing the pity that he knew the man held.
Bones stepped closer, boxing Jim in. "Really? Would we be doing this if it was anyone else? Pike's alive. You need to be focus on that, not this."
Scotty took a deep breath, something battling behind his eyes. "Jim," he said, slowly. "I say this as your friend. You aren't thinkin' clearly. Please, just look. These photon torpedoes are dangerous." He held out the PADD for Jim to take, but the Captain made no move to it. "They run on fuel. A type of fuel that I cannae detect because it's shielded. Now, I asked for the specifications, but I was told it's classified."
"How is that important?"
Bones turned to Jim. "Just listen!"
Jim's hands balled at his side. Why were they ganging up on him? He knew what he was doing. "Why are you even asking? You're supposed to be with the Providence." Even Jim winked at his cold tones.
"Jim…" Scotty started, slowly.
"I don't have time for a lecture, Scotty." He inhaled slowly through his nose. "Get back to the Providence. That's an order." He snapped, his voice rising.
Scotty's shoulders tightened, but he didn't move. "With the core, it's a radioactive catastrophe waitin' to happen. A subtle shift in magnetic output from, say, firin' one or more of six dozen torpedoes with an unknown payload could set off a chain reaction which will kill every living thing on this ship." He spoke quickly as if scared he would be yanked away at any moment.
"Commander Scott," Jim stated, stressing his rank. His friendly tones were gone. "I told you to report to the Providence."
"Jim!" Bones scowled. "What the hell? Scotty is trying to give you advice and you're shooting him in the foot. This isn't you!"
The 'kicked puppy dog' look only lasted a second on Scotty's face before he masked it, though he could not mask his sadness. "You picked me for your First Officer for a reason. If you don't take my advice, what's the point?"
Jim stared at Scotty. His jaw locked, his nails digging into his palms. "I need to get him. Why can't you understand that?" He hissed.
Scotty fidgeted with the PADD in his hands as he shared a look with Bones. He took a step forward and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. He squeezed gently. "I know Harrison hurt you…" He paused, meeting Jim's piercing blue eyes. "If I could, I would punch him, drop him on some Ice planet like Delta Vega and watch him be eatin' by one those fugly things with you. I would do anythin' for ya. So, do what ye need to do, but Jim, for the love of God, do not use those torpedoes."
"Jim." Bones stood there for a second, his tricorder dangling in his hand. His eyes were softened, watching the struggle on his best friend's face. Jim, his eyes staring off into the distance, just nodded and turned away. Bones stayed back with Scotty for a second, communicating silently with him. He took the PADD from Scotty before following after Jim.
_(O(O)O)_
Jim, after a long intense session with Dr. Jones, wanted nothing more than to get his hands dirty. By dirty, he meant covered in oil and grease with no end in sight. He may be a Captain, but there was no denying he enjoyed the finer things in life. He enjoyed working with his hands, enjoying the feel of grimy hands. Maybe, it was the sense of control that it gave him. If there was anything that he didn't like, lack of control was it. This was why he went out on away missions, even if Spock hated it. Spock, he thought. His heart jumped at the mere thought of the Vulcan. He would never admit it, but he missed the feel of Spock's lips on his. He missed the feel of his hands, pulling him down. He missed the feel on Spock's body against his No, he yelled at himself. Don't go there.
"Hello," a voice called from the metal railings above.
Currently, Jim was under a control panel connecting wires and tubing. His hands were hurting, after pinching them a few times. "John," He smiled, as he slid out from beneath the cold metal. "Hey." He stared up at the Commander, who was smiling right back. God, that Chester like grin warmed his chest, forcing out the strong memories of Spock. Without disappearing from sight, John walked down the catwalk toward the steps a few feet from Jim; however, he did not take the steps. He hopped the railing and jumped to the lower level, bending his knees on impact. He looked like a super hero, doing that famous pose they did in the movies, and god, he looked incredibly hot. "Shit," Jim uttered, as the man stepped toward him.
"You like what you see?" John dragged out, a cocky grin plastered onto his face. His shirt, one size too small, was stretched tight across his chest, showing every muscle.
Jim worked out for hours at a time and ate the green crap Bones put in front of him. He ran most mornings; yet, he looked like a slob next to John. "Nope, not at all," he flirted with an once vanished playfulness returning.
"So, the last few dates? Were those pity dates?" he teased, stepping to Jim and towering over him. His smile was still glowing on his face. "There goes my ego."
Setting down his tools, Jim sat up on his elbow and looked up at John. "Okay, this is a good angle. I take it back." The shirt may have been tight, but Jim could still see the freshy tones of John's abs.
John repositioned himself, stepping over Jim's legs and placing them between his own. If anyone came across them—which was possible considering the foot traffic in this area-, it would definitely bring a few stares and quick retreats. "My angle isn't bad either," he said, licking his lips at Jim's tang skin peeking through. His shirt was hiked up a few inches, the bottom of his abs visible.
Jim bent his knees and pushed himself up. He fumbled a bit, nearly falling before John met him half way with a helping hand under his elbow. John, with barely any force, tugged—yanked if you ask Jim- him up, and Jim found himself lifted off his feet like he was nothing. Jim was basically flying into John's awaiting arms like he weighted nothing. Before Jim could even react, John had a firm—an extremely firm. Holy Shit! Was he secretly Vulcan or something?- hand on his back, keeping Jim there. "Hello," Jim said, a cherry red blush forming on his face. "H-Hey." Their faces were mere inches from the other, blue eyes meeting blue eyes.
"For a Captain, I expected more," John teased, just staring at Jim's blue eyes. He watched as the different emotions flashed behind his vivid blue eyes.
Even with his heavy blush, there was no stopping the eye twitch. "Geez, Commander. I'm insulted." With his free arm, John brushed the golden hair out of Jim's eyes, his thumb lingering on his cheek. He, with a gentle hand, caressed the side of Jim's face, taking in the warmth. "What are you looking at?"
John didn't answer right way as his hand dropped to Jim's shoulder, though his eyes never leaving Jim's eyes. "I could stare into your eyes all day. You have the most breathtaking eyes I have ever seen. Stunning."
Jim's head was pounding in his chest. It wasn't like he hadn't been told that before. Spock had mentioned it to him a few times much in the same way that John had done. Spock was… Crap, he thought, blinking heavily. He didn't want to think about Spock. Think about how Spock had made him feel, especially when he was mere inches from another man's lips. He most definitely did not want to compare the two, even if that was exactly what he was doing. Even if Bones compared the two a lot. "Your eyes aren't that bad."
"Aren't that bad?" John jested. "However, I am man enough to note yours are far more superior." The hand on Jim's back slid down, disappeared beneath his black shirt and tenderly traveled back up. His fingers danced on his warm skin, tickling Jim ever so gently.
"Shit," Jim uttered. He shivered before he could stop himself. So far, John and he had only shared a small peak on the lips and some hand holding at the dinner table. In the past, Jim would've just jumped into bed, because sex was amazing. And now? Jim wasn't sure what he wanted, and there was no doubt John picked up on that, which was why he was testing the waters. Jim felt himself tremble, and once more, his mind flashed to Spock. Damn it, he cursed in his head, remembering one of their nights together. "Shit."
John just smirked, not realizing the thought that had crossed Jim's mind. "I am going to kiss you now. Is that okay?" Not seeing or sensing any kind of no, he closed the distance between their lips. There was a force behind the kiss that wasn't there with the other peaks on the lips, and he kissed Jim so intensely that he had pushed him back against the uncomplete panel, trapping Jim in his grasp. However, the Captain wasn't going anywhere anyhow, and he accepted this. He wrapped his arms around John's neck and pulling himself tight against the man… not that there was much space between them. John's lips were hot, and the man was precise and confident with every action, heat building between Jim's legs from the sheer passion behind it.
Just before Jim thought he was going to pass out, John pulled back and rested his forehead against Jim's. His breath was hot against Jim's face, ticking him with each exhale. It was odd to be this close to someone, but Jim found himself craving it. He didn't realize how touch craved he was, walling himself off from that part of him. Hungry, he resisted the urge to close the distance between them. He wanted to feel that feather warmth of John's lips against his. He wanted to feel that strength but yet be completely safe… Where the hell did this come from? "You taste like mocha." He said, unable to say anything else.
John smiled. "Oh, yes. I supposed it is better than garlic." He teased; his warm hand still against Jim's back.
"I would agree to that."
"Dinner tonight. My place."
Jim picked his head up and leaned back slightly. He knew what that meant, knew what that could lead to. He wasn't sure if he was ready for that, but god, he wanted to. Heck, his groin was already halfway there. "S-Sure."
That smile turned into a smirk, and John charged forward, placing another firm kiss to Jim's lips. John, though sensitive to panic that may be boiling inside of the Captain, was dominating the kiss, tasting each part of Jim's mouth. "Good," he grinned, pulling back for only a second before kissing Jim once more. They stayed like that until Scotty found them, and Scotty was anything but calm, yelling, "This is a no smoochin' zone." He forced John from the department, while avoiding looking at Jim.
_(O(O)O)_
It was illogically, not practical and irrational. Spock just couldn't help it, it taking him over like mold. Jealousy was not beneficial, and he detested it. Besides, Lieutenant Saavik was not a part of the Enterprise's crew and she had not requested assignment aboard the Enterprise. She was not his concerned. She was simply servicing under Captain Kirk as his Chief Science Officer, and looking at her service record, she was impeccable at her position, even having a recommendation from his father, Ambassador Sarek. (No, Spock was not bitter about that.) So, he had no reason to dislike her, not that he would admit it. That would be illogical and nonsensical; also, his opinion did not matter. He was not her Commanding Officer, and his opinion had no baring on her actions; yet, he found himself not liking the woman.
If he searched himself and allowed himself to admit it, Spock knew the answer. He was jealous, jealous she was servicing under Jim. Jealous that Jim had accepted her as a part of her crew and, by extension, his family. He let her in. Spock was jealous Jim accepted a meal from her instead of him. Jealous how close she was to Jim. Jim was his. His to take care of… No, Jim was not his. Jim wasn't his anything, and that hurt more than anything. It was his fault, an error that Spock wanted to correct. An error that would be corrected. Hope was blooming inside of him. Hearing Jim stand up for him and having that very man in his arms mere hours ago, it regenerated, or rather, renewed Spock's determination. He would win Jim back.
The Commander had nearly forgotten how right it felt to have Jim in his arms. Even now, his emotions, emotions that he was fighting back, were ready to pop and explode finally getting what he had desired- or the possibility of it at least. The situation had been poor, and fury was rushing through his veins at the sight of Admiral Pike bleeding on the floor, but his katra was still singing from holding Jim in his arms, and it was a battle not to run after the man. Once forgotten instincts were flaring, ready to kick into action. Jim being hurting was unacceptable, and it brought out sentiments that Spock did not care for: anger, fury, rage, etc. These emotions were distasteful, blinding him to the issues at hand. Nevertheless, Spock, regardless of rather he was Kirk's First Officer or not, would protect Jim to best of his ability.
Spock tucked the PADD under his arm for only a second before it chirped. An eye brow raised, he pulled his PADD back out and read the message. Confusion flashed on his face, as he reread the order. He was being ordered to report to the Enterprise in his current role of First Officer with no mention of who would be in command. It surely would not be Admiral Pike. He had an idea. Considering recent activities, he could conclude with some certainty that they would be chasing down the criminal John Harrison. Admiral Marcus would not send a Starship out at this time for anything else with the panic in the air. With Nero still in everyone's head, they would need that security, and if they were sending out a Starship, Jim, the surrogate son of Chris Pike, would be on that ship, even if he forced his way onto it, something he had done in the past. Spock had heard the Providence was in for some repairs, so it would make sense that Jim would take the Enterprise.
Spock understood Jim's anger, and the Vulcan could relate as Pike meant a lot to him as well. Heck, Spock felt anger both at Jim's pain and Pike's injuries, but he would not act on it. It would be foolish. Emotions made you weak, illogical. Even now, he was flashing back to his mother's death and to time that he had almost lost Jim; he had almost lost himself. Spock had allowed that to occur one too many times, and he would not allow it now. He needed to be logical and strong for Jim. He would be there for Jim.
Renewed and determined, he turned the PADD screen off and made his way to the hanger. Just as the hanger doors came into view, he was interjected by Uhura. "Spock!" She yelled.
With a neutral expression plastered to his face, Spock turned. He looked at her for a few seconds, noting her fatigued. Her heart echoed loudly in his ear as her lungs were in overdrive. "Lieutenant Uhura," he agreed. He waited a few seconds before adding, "I see you have received our orders."
Uhura straightened herself out, still struggling to catch her breath. "Yes, I have." Their friendship was not like what it used to be with it only existing because of Uhura. She wouldn't give up. "Do you know why?" She asked, taking a deep breath.
"I have reasoned why," Spock answered, his eyes forward toward the Enterprise's shuttle. "However, we do not have time to discuss this." He turned from her and toward the craft.
Uhura exhaled deeply, her nose flaring. "Spock."
He could hear her frustration in her voice and knew she was unhappy to be dismissed so easily. "We do not have time-"
"Do you know anything about John Harrison?"
Spock stared at her. "In regard to what? I do not know more than what is reported." She knew more than what she was saying. "Are you implying there is more?"
Uhura bit her bottom lip, conflicted. "Monty…. Scotty mentioned something. I wasn't sure."
It was possible that Commander Scotty knew more as he was just appointed Kirk's First Officer. "It is poss-"
"Uhura, Commander Spock!"
Spock's eye brow raised, turning once more to someone calling his name. A concerned Sulu was waving at them, and he was not alone. At this side was Chekov and Saavik, which seemed to indicate Spock was correct. "Ensign, Lieutenant and Lieutenant," he greeted.
"What do you think this is about?" Sulu asked, not wasting any time. "Are they sending us after Harrison?"
Ignoring Sulu, Uhura finally caught her breath and turned to Chekov and Saavik. Saavik's expression did not change, but Uhura was glaring at the woman. "Hey, Sulu, Chekov." It seemed that Chekov still held a grudge, as he narrowed his eyes at her. "What you are you doing here?" she hissed at the female Vulcan.
Spock shot Uhura a look. "Lieutenant Uhura," he chastised. Saavik turned her gaze at him for a second before turning back to Uhura.
Before Uhura could speak, Saavik spoke, "It is tolerable, Commander. Lieutenant Uhura is only voicing her displeasure that I alerted Admiral Pike to her disregard of regulations."
Uhura's eye started to twitch, her nose flaring. "Excuse me? I was trying-"
"You broke regulations for your personal gain. There is no justifications-"
"I didn't do it for me. I did it for…" She shook her head, forcing her words back down her throat. "Neither Captain Kirk or Admiral Pike-"
"And that would not-"
Spock could feel his eye twitch as he watched the two female officers go back and forward. "Enough. It would do you well to remember your rank." He ordered, giving them both a look. "If this is all, we are to report Enterprise."
Chekov picked up his head. "Ve've been ordered to report to the Enterprise as vell."
Uhura's eyes widened. "What?"
Sulu gave Chekov a weak smile as he placed a gentle hand on Chekov's shoulder. "It will be nice to service beside you again," he spoke.
The Russian nodded. "I agree. Just vish it vasn't cause of this."
Spock watched the two, noting their friendship seemed unchanged by the distance. It was likely they had kept up communication as well. He would not state he was jealous, though he wished he could say the same with regards to Jim. Pike had tried to get them to reconnect, calling them both idiots, but the Vulcan rejected the idea the second Pike brought it up. With the way that Jim and he left it, he assumed Jim would not approve, but he realized he had been foolish.
"But why? What about the Providence?" Uhura asked, still glaring at Saavik. Her harsh tones drew Spock's attention to her. "The Enterprise has her crew and we're quite capable in completing any mission assigned to us." She glanced at Chekov. "Not saying that we wouldn't love having Chekov back."
Chekov narrowed his eyes at Uhura before turning to Saavik. "Lieutenant Saavik is an amazin'. Savin' the Providence many times over!"
Uhura exhaled slowly, pushing back her anger and annoyance. "I did not mean to imply that she was not."
Saavik's eye brow rose, mirroring the same exasperated expression that Spock had sported in which Jim had complained about a lot. "If you wish to voice your displeasure, you can take it up with Senior Command." She said, dryly. "I am to report to the Enterprise."
Spock, with narrowing eyes, watched the two, the tension on the raise between the two. He couldn't help but find the two illogical, especially Saavik who should be better than this. She, unVulcan like, appeared to be trying and succeeding to get arise out of Uhura, who should not be this sensitive. Regardless of what Saavik stated, Uhura should not react and doing so would tarnish her reputation. "This chatter is delaying our arrival on the Enterprise. I am sure we will be made aware of the situation, once onboard." He said, giving Saavik one more look. The Vulcan woman seemed just unimpressed by them as he was of her.
*O*O*
Jim took the middle seat in the front row of the craft, while Bones sat behind him. It didn't take Jim long to realize why as a medical device was placed on his cheek a seconds later. Bones had picked his seat to prevent Jim from reaching back and slipping Bones in the head. He didn't have the patience for this crap, not that Bones didn't have a valid point. Considering everything the happened in last 18 hours, the Good Doctor had a point; it was his duty to give his Captain an thorough exam, but his skin was crawling, ants biting as they went. Though it was all in his head, Jim still didn't want to be touched. However, he forced himself still. Bones was his CMO and had the ability to take his rank away if he felt Jim was unstable. Considering the last few conversions he had with Jim, it wasn't too far of a possibility; plus, as soon as Jim got this over with, the sooner Bones would leave him alone.
"Kaptain!" came a familiar Russian voice.
Jim glanced up from his PADD and smiled before even laying eyes on Chekov. "Oh, you were guys having a party with me?" He asked noticing the group behind him. His heart flickered at the sight of Spock, and he forced his stare back down. He could still feel the Vulcan's gaze on him, even Uhura's eyes were drilling into him.
"Oh, no," Chekov replied. "Never vithout you, Sir!" He paused for a second, his eyes bouncing between the crew. "Sorry for the delay." He may be the youngest one on the craft, but he didn't not miss the growing tension.
Sulu took a step forward. "Good to see you good, Captain." He said, uncertainty in his eyes.
Jim glanced back up, still ignoring Spock. "As it is with you, Lieutenant. Just don't fly us into a black hole." Sulu laughed as he went to find a seat. Knowing better, Chekov followed and took a seat near the back of the shuttle. They sat together, keeping a close eye on the growing tension.
Bones glanced up looking at the remaining officers standing, the tricorder in his hand. "Well, take a seat so we can get this shit done and over with." Irritation soaked his words. He was clearly not happy.
Jim spun, his eye twitching. "Bones."
"Captain," Saavik called, drawing Jim's attention. "Have you finally let Doctor McCoy examine you?" She hovered over him, her eyes meeting his. "It is his duty after all."
Bones shot Saavik an exasperated look. "Mostly. I've confirmed he isn't going to die."
"I expected more, Doctor." Saavik spoke as she took a seat directly next to Jim. With a show, she rested her elbow on the armrest inches from Jim, who didn't shift to give himself more room.
With a weak smile and twitching eye, he let that comment ago and gave her a short look. "Nice seat," Bones muttered, which earned him a Vulcan's glare from Saavik.
Uhura walked forward, her eyes drifting to Saavik for a second. "Captain."
Jim looked up, his expression masked. "Uhura," he said, trying to keep his voice as neutral as possible. He wasn't sure why Uhura still annoyed him. Too much time had passed for him to be this angry at her, and if he was being honest, it was unfair to her, even after everything that happened. Besides, she did seem to be truly sorry for what she did. If Dr. Jones was here, he would tell Jim he would never move on if he held onto this anger.
"I'm so sorry about Admiral Pike," she offered, her voice soft. "But I have no doubt he will make a full recovery."
"We all are," Jim stated, feeling uneasy at the thought of leaving Chris. Guilt and shamed flooded Jim at the thought that he had abandoned Pike to chase John. What if questions filled his head. What if something happened to Chris and Jim wasn't there? What happened if Chris died-No! He would be fine. He had to be fine. Fuck you, Harrison.
Uhura hesitated for a second. "Are you okay?"
"Fine, thank you, Lieutenant." Everyone had been asking him that lately, though no one believed him. Heck, Jim didn't believe it. He knew it was a lie before he even said it. He was totally not fine.
"Horseshit," Bones interjected.
Jim turned back and shot Bones the dirtiest look he could muster. He stared at him for a second, trying to communicate 'shut it' with his eyes, before he turned back to Uhura. "You can take seat," He told Uhura, noticing her lingering eyes.
Uhura glanced back at Spock, who was stiff and stoic. "It'll be a pleasure to serve under you again, Captain." She said, before taking a seat next to Bones. "Good Morning, Leonard." She greeted.
"What's good about it?" he nipped, rolling his eyes. He leaned forward in his seat, bring up his tricorder again.
Jim stared at the device five inches from his face. A vein popped, twitching on his forehead, and Jim was sure it was visible as he was ready to slap that thing out of Bones' hand. "Bones," he said, reaching his boiling point. Why wasn't Bones done with this shit? He told Saavik that he was.
"Captain."
"Commander," Jim spoke, nearing jumping at his title. With a small huff, he forced his stare up, annoyed at himself for how Spock's very voice got to him. He was ready to kill someone, and yet, Spock's voice brings him down. However, nothing compared to the look in Spock's gentle eyes. He wasn't an idiot, and though Jim may have 'moved' on a few times, he knew Spock had not. Spock still looked at him like he raised the sun, which slapped Jim like a brick. He may not admit it to anyone accept Bones (with a lot of nagging on the Doctor's part), but he still loved Spock. He couldn't say that about his other exes, not that he had a lot of exes. One-night stands, but not exes. Harrison came damn close to the L word, with Jim's fear stopping him from saying it. Yet, Spock was always at the back of his head with that cursed word.
Spock kept his eyes on Jim. "Thank you for my reinstatement as your First Officer, even if it is only for this assignment."
That wasn't accurate. Jim didn't want Spock as his First Officer, but he couldn't find it in himself to correct Spock. "You're welcome." A relaxed expression fell onto Spock's face. Jim wouldn't call it a smile as Spock didn't smile, unless in private after a round of sex. Spock loved to- No, Jim. Bad Jim. Don't think about sex with Spock. He wasn't even sure why his mind went to that, considering he hadn't had sex with Spock in a while. Plus, it should've been the last thing on his mind, but heck, his head was in a tail spin.
With a nod, Spock eyed Jim's face before taking a seat, a seat that was on the other side of Jim. He ignored Saavik's probing stare, focusing on Jim, who's surprise was clearly written on his face at the sudden closeness. After Spock settled, Bones leaned forward and balked. "You shouldn't be thankin' him. We're firing torpedoes at the Klingons."
Heating building to his right, Jim's eyes widened as he turned back at Bones. "McCoy." He hissed. He wasn't wrong, but shit, Bones didn't have to say it like that. "We're chasing down the fugitive John Harrison." Every eye drilled into him, surprised—and maybe, appalled- by what Bones had uttered.
"While firing torpedoes," Bones shot back.
Spock's eyes penetrated the side of Jim's face. "As I am once more your First Officer, it is now my duty to strongly object to our mission parameters."
Jim refused to look at Spock, who was mere inches from him. He forced his eyes back down at the PADD in his hand. "Of course, it is." Heat was rolling off Spock, and Jim's left side was on fire.
Uhura leaned forward in her chair. "Captain," she uttered.
Jim glanced back at her as well as Chekov and Sulu. He eyed each of them, attempting to read the stun expressions on their face. Chekov's expression was hard, knowing quite well what Harrison was to Jim. Sulu and Uhura, who hadn't had a conversation with Jim in over a year, didn't have that level of understanding. "Stop," he ordered. "This is our mission."
Spock adjusted himself slightly to get a better look of Jim's face, though Jim pointedly ignored him. "There is no Starfleet regulation that condemns a man to die without a trial, something you and Admiral Marcus are forgetting. Also, preemptively firing torpedoes at the Klingon homeworld goes against-"
This was awkward. "Our orders have nothing to do with Starfleet regulation," Jim snapped, trying to put space between him and Spock. He heavily leaned against the arm rest if the arm rest wasn't there, he would be in Saavik's lap.
"Captain," Saavik called, placing a hand on Jim's shoulder. Jim shot her a startled look before turning back to Spock, but he did not shove her off.
Spock narrowed his eyes at Saavik's hand. "Regulations aside, this action is morally wrong." He forced his eyes up, meeting Jim's stare.
Jim glared at Spock, ignoring the way Spock's leg was touching his. There were a lot of things that he missed about having Spock as his First Officer, things he kept looking for in his other countless First Officers but arguing wasn't one of them. Granted, Scotty had tried to tell him the same thing, pleaded with him in fact. "I'm not going to take ethics lessons from a robot!"
"Jim, calm down," Bones yelled, reaching over the seat for his best friend.
"Reverting to name-calling suggests that you are defensive and therefore find my opinion valid," Spock replied.
Yes, Spock had a point. And Scotty. And god damn it, Bones. If Pike was awake, he would be saying the same thing—yelling at him more like it. And god help him, he was tired of hearing it. He knew what he was doing. Or did he? There was no denying his anger and its toxic effect on him, which ate at him like a lion. Yet, he had to do this. Harrison had to pay for his crimes. "I wasn't asking for your opinion. Bones, get off," he demanded, shrugging off Bones' hand. Saavik's hand still remained.
"Captain, our mission could start a war with the Klingons and it is, by its very definition, immoral. Perhaps you should take the requisite time to arrive at this conclusion for yourself." Spock's eyes dropped to Saavik's hand once more, before he settled back in his seat.
Jim couldn't say if he would feel this way in a few days. Probably not, but god, it was Harrison. It was John. It brought back familiar pain that he would very much like to forget. The pain ate him, making him feel completely worthless. It was like he was reliving each horrible moment he had ever had. He flashed back to when Spock had proclaimed him a failed experiment and a cheater before walking out on him. "I know what I'm doing," he said, finally shrugging off Saavik and leaning back in his seat. He was shoulder to shoulder with Spock, putting his heart and brain at war with themselves.
Just before the shuttle could take off, a blond woman stepped on aboard and introduced herself as Science Officer Carol Wallace. She stated she was assigned to the Enterprise by Admiral Marcus, which Jim found weird and a bit upsetting if he was being honest. After the 'little' chat he had with Marcus, he didn't want anything from that repulsive man. And to learn she specialized in advanced weaponry, it disturbed Jim more then he cared to admit. He was already sent one nutcase by Marcus, and he wasn't sure he could handle another one.
"Have a seat, Doctor," Jim said with a forced smile.
Doctor Wallace smiled, as she took back her PADD from Jim. "Thank you." she said, taking a seat across the aisle from Spock. She gifted Jim a warm smile when she caught Jim's glance. While there was no doubt that that his staring was giving her the wrong idea, it took him some effort to look away, this feeling forming in his gut. He can worry about her later.
Sensing his discomfort, Spock send Jim a curious look before looking back at Wallace. "Are you okay, Captain?" he asked, softly enough so only Jim could hear. Saavik glanced over, looking past Jim's face to Spock. She didn't speak but she kept her eyes on him. Spock gave her an eye raised before returning back to Jim, his eyes observing the twitch in Jim's forehead and his locked jaw.
Though Jim's emotions were all over the place, he was for damn sure not going to tell Spock. He didn't trust him enough for that, though he wasn't sure he could trust anyone with them anymore. "I am fine. Let's just get to the Enterprise." There was this undeniable heat to the right of him with Spock's full attention on him.
*O*O*
Chekov, McCoy and Saavik were in a sense unneeded on the Enterprise as the Starship was fully staffed. However, this gave Jim a chance to station them around the ship. Granted, Bones would always be in the Med bay, which was exactly where Jim sent him after the Doctor wouldn't stop chasing after him. He sent Chekov to engineer as the navigator was not needed on the bridge. Plus, it gave the Ensign a chance to try out the new skills he learned from Scotty. Saavik, on the other hand, wouldn't leave his side, even protesting any ideas he threw out. After a few minutes of her impressive stare, Jim allowed her to shadow him on the bridge as he could admit she was helpful in a pinch. Plus, she was a safety net in a sense, and he would need that as he found himself on the Enterprise.
Jim's heart pounded in his chest as he stepped on the Enterprise's bridge. A burning, overwhelming emotion bubbled up inside of him, as this numbing feeling filled of him. His memories, the good and the bad, came rushing back in spades, but it still felt like home. That struck Jim most of all. It didn't matter how many months he had captained the Providence it never felt like this. He didn't even know how to describe it, but it was home. This was where he defeated Nero. This was where he felt like he was worth something for the first time. This was where he found his family… His family that included Spock. Unable to stop himself, he glanced back at the Vulcan, who was staring at him with a fondness that Jim couldn't begin to describe. Shit… Shit.
Jim forced himself away from Spock and took a look around the bridge. Every eye was on him, the crew unsure as to why he was here. With a soft exhale, he spoke, "Most of you know me, served with me, but for those who don't, I'm Captain James T. Kirk, and for the time being, I am taking command of the Enterprise. You can think of me as Pike, but younger and hotter." A few chuckles escaped their lips, which brought a smile to Jim's lips. He ignored Spock who was approaching him. "Understood?"
"Aye, Sir," the crew replied.
"Captain," Spock said, stopping Jim just behind the Captain's seat.
"Mr. Spock." Jim straightened himself, pulling down on his gold shirt. The heat was back, though it was not alone. The very shame that he felt earlier was back.
"Lieutenant Saavik may be better served in the labs," Spock stated, not even looking at Saavik who was standing a few feet back with her arms behind her.
Jim glanced at Saavik, who staring them. "Why, Mr. Spock, two Vulcans are better than one, don't you agree?" He replied, heat building inside him. Fucken Harrison picked the wrong time to start a war. Why couldn't he have waited until after he sorted his inveterate feelings? Why the hell did he still have feelings? Why the hell did Spock have to pull a stunt like that? He just wanted to kiss- Wait, what? No. Bad, Jim. He yelled at himself. Harrison, fucken Harrison. How could he even think of Spock now when John had ripped out his heart?
"She is redundant," Spock replied.
"Are you jealous, Mr. Spock?" he asked, shutting those emotions down. There was a bad taste in his mouth as something else bubbled forward. His anger for Harrison stretched across him like a deadly poison, and with Spock standing in front of him (a gift that only Spock seem to have), Jim couldn't help but wonder if he was letting his anger take him over. His trusted crew, his friends, had already stated as such, and thinking—really thinking about it—he couldn't help but wonder how right they were.
Spock's eyebrow rose in that unnatural way of his. "Not at all, Captain. Vulcan do not feel jealousy."
Jim couldn't stop the snort. "Yea, right."
Spock took a small step forward and lowered his voice so only Jim could hear. "It would be unjust to judge this moment as such. The circumstances in which you are speaking about are different. To hold a gift like yourself is something worth fighting for and jealousy is to be expected, considering how precious you are. It is logical."
Jim just stood there for a few seconds, his eyes wide. There went any doubt Jim might have had in regard to what Spock felt for him. "Spock," he said, suddenly hit by the sweet aroma that Spock was known for. "She stays," he said, breathing through his mouth as he took a large step back. The frown on Spock's face did not go unnoticed. How was it that Spock could still cut through him like this? They had a fight nearly give minutes ago. Jim wanted to kill a man, but here they were.
The corner of Spock's lips twitched. "Very well. She can have my station."
"Commander," Jim uttered, seeing Saavik move to the Science Station without another word.
"I can complete my status checks from here. I have everything that I need." Spock answered a few feet from the captain's chair.
"Okay." His heart beating, Jim moved to the famous captain's seat. He hesitated for a spilt second before settling down in the chair. At first, Jim was hit with an intense image of Pike as it smelled like the man. A smile danced onto Jim's face as Jim could imagine Pike sitting in his chair a short time ago. Pike wouldn't approve of his mission, and if Jim allowed himself a moment to think, he would admit this was wrong. Jim didn't join Starfleet to kill, even if he had to do so in the past, but with each one of those situations, he had no choice and he had done so with a heavy heart. He had a choice here. Killing Harrison would make him just as bad as him, and Jim refused to be like that man. "Retract all moorings, Mister Sulu."
"Yes, sir." Sulu said. "May I say it is nice to have you back, Captain Kirk." He tapped on this panel. "All moorings retracted." He added after a few seconds.
Jim swirled in his chair, which never got old. He loved his chair, though he may have to speak to Pike about it. There was something odd going on with the back support. "Lieutenant Uhura, open a ship wide channel."
"Yes, sir." Uhura said, meeting his glance.
Pressing a communication button on the captain's chair. "Mister Chekov, how are we looking down there?"
"All systems nominal, Kaptain. Warp available at your command," came Chekov's reply.
Jim could never say it enough: he loved Chekov. His Russian was cutest thing ever. "Thank you, Mister Chekov." He leaned forward. "All right. Let's ride."
"Yes, sir." Sulu answered, kicking the Enterprise into warp.
"Channel open, sir." Uhura spun to him.
Jim took a deep breath. "Attention, crew of the Enterprise. As most of you know, Christopher Pike, the current commanding Officer of this ship and our friend, is in a coma. I have temporary taken over the Enterprise in his place to bring his would be murderer to justice." He paused, glancing up at Spock, who had not moved. "The man who attacked him and killed countless Starfleet officials has fled our system and is hiding on the Klingon homeworld, somewhere he believes we are unwilling to go." Harrison's smile flashed before Jim's eyes, and his hand balled at his side.
"We're on our way there now. Per Admiral Marcus, it's essential that our presence go undetected. Tensions between the Federation and the Klingon Empire have been high. Any provocation could lead to an all-out war." Jim glanced back up at Spock, who's eyes were glued to him. He didn't know why the hell it mattered what Spock thought, considering this was all temporary. But yet, it was. He listened to more to Spock than either Bones or Scotty. The very thought annoyed Jim. Was this all due to Spock's actions on Nibiru? "I'll personally lead a landing party to an abandoned city on the surface of Qo'noS where we will capture the fugitive, John Harrison, and return him to Earth so he can face judgement for his actions. All right. Let's go get this son of a bitch. Kirk out."
Spock took another step forward, his arms behind his back. "Captain, I believe you have made the right decision. if I can be of assistance, I would be happy to accompany you on the away team."
Jim almost choked on his tongue. He didn't want Harrison anywhere near Spock or Spock near Harrison. What was a time of self-discovery turned sour quickly, and he wanted to hide that part deep inside him. God, he felt dirty. Bones was right that this was going to be a messy. Exes made everything messy, and then there was what Marcus had said. If this went wrong, he didn't want Spock near it. He didn't want anyone near it. No doubt careers would be ruined as Jim had a sick feel that Marcus, though he said was his ally, would use that card. Marcus was not his friend. "You? Happy?" he asked, feeling light headed. How the hell did he get here?
"I was simply attempting to use your vernacular to convey an idea."
Jim snorted again. "Thank you, Mister Spock." He wouldn't shake the feeling bad feeling spouting in his stomach.
_(O(O)O)_
Khan was always left with a bad taste in his mouth whenever he had to deal with Admiral Marcus. It would be so much easier if he could just pop the Admiral's head in two, but he could not make his move just yet. The pieces were not in place yet. "You called?" he said, drily.
"Oh, Khan. What is with the face?" Marcus laughed. He had stopped calling Khan 'Harrison' when Khan's memories had returned. He took great joy at seeing the anger boil just behind Khan's eyes before a hopeless realization—that he was powerless- dawned on the man. Marcus liked to wave his power in front of Khan, reminding him that he was in charge. "Smile."
The office was dark with the light reflecting off the moon as the only illumination in the room. The edge of the Earth was visible through the viewing window. "You did not call me here to here to smile," he spoke, looking past Marcus's head.
"I did not but look those pretty blues. You should be thanking me for that face." Marcus replied, leaning back in his face. "So much prettier."
Khan schooled his face, refusing to let his anger to reflect, but he was seething. How dare this man think he could order him around like a dog? He was Khan! And secondly, he hated this face. This man robbed him of his face, his life. "Why is it that you called?"
"I got another assignment for you." Marcus said, picking up a PADD and scrolling through images and reports.
"Oh, joy. What else can I do for you?" He resisted the urge to roll his eyes.
"Don't give me that look. You might enjoy this one. When was the last time you had some fun?" He slid the tablet across the desk. Khan made no movement to it. "Again, no smile? I need you to seduce someone for me."
Khan eyed the PADD, blond hair popping out to him. "Why Admiral? Who would want me over you?" he asked, sarcastically.
Marcus waved at the PADD. "An Admiral seducing a Captain wouldn't look good. Besides, you're more his type."
"So, I am now your whore?" Khan folded his hands behind his back, balling his fists.
The Admiral laughed. "My whore? Here I thought I was doing you a favor. Help you work out some of that anger. Just take a look."
Khan, aggravated, took a step forward, his eyes widening as he noticed the man on the PADD. Though Marcus had limited much of his access to the outside world—not that the man had been successful in doing so-, Khan knew who James T Kirk was. He doubted there was a single person that did not. "I doubt I am his type."
"You would be wrong. Captain Kirk had been banging his male First Officer for god knows how long. Or maybe, his First Officer had been banging him. I doubt that Vulcan would allow anything else, and Kirk does seem like the type." He paused, not explaining what he meant by type. "Heck, he caused a colossal incident with the Daleniens, almost destroying everything with his voluptuous indiscretions. He almost screwed up my deal. If he would've kept his pants on, we wouldn't be here right now."
Khan raised an eyebrow, not sure what Marcus was referring to. "You seemed very interest in Kirk's sex life, Admiral Marcus. Jealous, are we?"
Marcus narrowed his eyes at Khan, sending him draggers. "Watch it, Khan. We wouldn't want anything to happen to your crew, your family, do we?"
It would be so easy to kill this man. Khan could see six different ways that he could kill this man without breaking a sweat. He could pick up that desk and slam it down on Marcus's head before he realized it. He could twist his neck with just a flick of the wrist. "What is it that you want from Captain James T. Kirk?"
Standing, Marcus turned to the window and stared at the Earth. "A few things. Good bargaining tool. Plus, it won't hurt to have Captain Kirk and, by extension, Admiral Pike under my thumb." He took a deep breath before turning back. "So, what you say, Khan? Plus, it would be a good stress reliever for you. Maybe, it will curb that murder in your eyes." He laughed.
What the hell was so funny? Khan did not know. "As you wish, Admiral Marcus." Kirk may be breathtaking, those magnificent cerulean eyes alone pulling him in, but he had better things to do with his time. He had to save his crew, not fuck some Captain no matter how easy it would be. And it would be easy. "But what if Kirk turns me down? It would not be surprising." He had heard the stories, though he was unsure how true they were.
Marcus turned, eyeing Khan. "Kirk would like to think himself as complicated, playing the victim, but just bat your eyes at him, he will drop his pants. He wasn't known as the campus slut for nothing when he was at the Academy. You know the drill. Daddy issues."
Khan couldn't help but wonder if Marcus was this much of an idiot with everything. If so, this would make it so much easier. Marcus would never see it coming. "Very well."
"And oh, I need you to record some of your…" Marcus paused for second, as he gestured into the air.
Khan just stared at him. Really? He had no issue with fucking some Captain for the fun of it. It was just sex and who didn't enjoy sex, but taping it? What was his endgame? Though, it would make sense if Marcus wanted to blackmail Kirk. "Just say it, Admiral. No need to be craven now. You want a sex tape. Are you sure you don't want to get your rocks off?"
Marcus's expression was deadly. A fury waiting to be unleashed. "Maybe, you will curb your tongue if you had one less crew member to worry about." He titled his head. "What you say?"
Hands balling at his side, Khan forced himself to remain calm. "As you wish. I shall get you what you what."
"Good boy," Marcus smiled. "Oh, remember, I need you to fuck him. Not the other way around."
"Understood."
Author note:
I am pretty sure no one would be sad at Marcus's death at this point. LOL
And yes, he seemed too interested in Jim's sex life.
Until next time.
Oh, Jealous Spock is cute. LOL