So I'm back!
Sorry this update took so long, life is hectic right now. I'm still writing but very slowly. And have too many ideas for future chapters so struggling what route to go down at the moment. Might have to just follow my heart though lmao
Enjoy
X
The pleasant chatter filled the air in the wide white wash tunnel as they all filed out of the ship. Some empty handed, some with bags, some in uniform, some already in casual wear. There was a pep to most people's steps and smiles on faces as everyone let themselves relax a little, finally making it to yorktown for shore leave.
"Well I'll be damned, we made it before another disaster happened." Leonard paused in the corridor as if in awe as he saw Jim pause next to him shaking his head and patting him on the back to continue.
"Course we did Bones. An entire month of shore leave too, it'll be an interesting Christmas this year, so many things have changed." Jim said thoughtfully, looking directly at the back of his first officer as they continued forward.
"Wait Christmas?" Leonard gaped in shock.
"It's December 1st Leonard!" Nyota sang cheerily, still in uniform like the rest of their small gang but chipper all the same. "Im just hoping I get a decent hotel room this time, last time we were here they were having electrical difficulties lights were flickering constantly."
"I already told you I got you covered." Alex put a hand on Nyotas arm and looked at her in seriousness. "I actually may have went a bit too far so its totally okay if you want a different room." Alex's eyes darted between Nyota and the two men to their side sceptically.
Jim squinted at her suspiciously with a sly smirk forming already. "What did you do?"
"Lets just say I've been pulling alot of strings recently. If its not anyone's thing though just say so, I won't be offended it was just a crazy idea I had and kinda went wild with. Spock does already know though because I knew he'd be the first person to be booking a room in advance so.."
"Alex… what did you do." Leonard was squinting at her aswell now same sly smirk as Jim as they felt her excited nervousness.
"It'd be easier to show you, Spock! Lead the way, I let them know too much!" Alex skipped forward a couple of steps so she was walking in speed with Spock as the Vulcan just raised an expectant brow at her.
"I knew you wouldn't be able to keep it a total surprise, I believe I won our bet."
"God damn it, I'll honour the bet but I'll have to go get them later."
"I am flexible on payment deadline, there is no rush."
"Did you and Spock have a bet?" Nyota asked while laughing lightly.
"And you lost." Leonard rolled his eyes fondly and he chuckled openly at the red head feeling her bristling inside his head with hope and nerves.
"My doctor and first officer plotting against me, I dont like it." Jim shook his head with a smile as they all walked on into the bright open space and one of the many bustling plazas of yorktown. The group walking under decorative white arches straight towards a local teleport.
"I hate these bastard things." Leonard grumbled as he watched Spock step in then plot a course that had his eyes widening. "Le Grand?!"
"Indeed, meet us in the lobby." Spock spoke before his atoms scattered and he was gone.
"Does Spock know this is a luxury hotel? I don't even want to think about the price-" Alex gave Leonard a quick frown before she disappeared aswell giving Nyota a second to turn on her heels and face the doctor head on.
"Leonard, relax, if we think its too much we'll tell her, but I don't think she'll have booked something she knows we won't be able to afford, whats bothering me more is the amount of paparazzi there seemed to be on New Vulcan at the end of the trial compared to here when we're on shore leave… it just feels odd. There's nobody here."
"Thats a good thing though isn't it?" Jim spoke as he stepped into the teleport as his atoms scattered as well.
"Maybe." Nyota whispered watching Leonard disappear before she stepped into the teleport as well, in the blink of an eye she was in a pristine white and silver Hotel lobby. The ceiling was high and Nyota gasped as she saw the ornate glass crystal ceiling and the geometric chandelier hanging elegantly high above the front desk.
"Nyota, over here." Jim beckoned her over as she noticed Alex talking with someone at the front desk smiling wide as Spock stood beside Leonard not too far behind her. "I feel like i need to be wearing a tux." Jim commented with a half laugh as Nyota continued to look shell shocked.
"Jim, I dont think I can afford this-" Nyota commented not realising that Alex had came over with room cards as the red head paused and looked at Nyota with confusion.
"Oh my God no, Nyota, you don't have to pay, none of you are paying for this, the room isn't like this i promise its just the lobby."
"So who is paying for it Alex?" Nyota asked in mild concern.
"Well I got some money from the trial ruling in my favour and I know the owner, I helped her out last year so she gave me a nice deal on the room. I wanted to do something nice for you guys as a thankyou, but like I said if you're not into it when you see it totally fine too I'll understand, it's a little out of my usual comfort zone too." She said as she fiddled with the room card and motioned for them to follow her to the lifts. All 5 of them fitting more than comfortably into the oversized lift.
"That money was meant for you, you know that right?" Leonard said with a sincere tone to his voice and a concerned look on his face.
"I know it is, and this is how I wanted to spend it." Alex said as the lift zipped upwards. "I probably should have asked you guys im sorry. Also just so you know Spock hasn't seen anything yet I just ran the idea past him and he said it could be pleasant so-"
"You encouraged her-" Leonard started with a brow raise aimed at the dark haired Vulcan.
"Her description of the room was favorable and the intentions behind it are amiable, the idea itself is a pleasant one regardless of the fact it is illogical."
"Its not illogical to want to be around people you love at Christmas time Spock, if we didn't want for anything we wouldn't strive for anything either." Alex frowned at him as she folded her arms and stuck her tongue out.
"A relevant point." Spock conceded making Leonard scoff at how easily he seemed to give in.
"Also you can all open your letters, apart from you Leonard you have to wait till the 20th." Alex added watching as everyone turned to her with realisation in their eyes.
"Those were you? Why didn't we figure this out sooner!" Jim commented in disbelief.
"Because you've all been busy working your asses off give yourself a break Jim, you saved Scotty having to be interrogated by you by not investigating it. I may have had him wipe and loop some video footage."
"You're a sly little minx i hope you know that." Leonard commented with a shit eating smirk that the red head reciprocated.
"Only when I need to be, anyway, the room. So we have this little entry way and then you scan in- here we are." Alex commented leading them all out of the lift on the 40th floor and opening the door for them all to step through.
Jims eyes widened alongside Nyota and Bones as they stepped through the door into what was literally a huge living room. A huge black sofa wrapped around a coffee table in the centre of the room facing a huge TV screen on the wall. There was a entire glass wall that seemed to lead out onto a balcony with a small swimming pool. Turning to their right they saw a doorway and a long what seemed to be serving window that had a bar and stools wrapped around the outside and the normal kitchen utilities inside the room, white marble worktops with sleek grey tiled walls and cupboards. Abstract art pieces hanging on pristine white walls in the main living room.
"Yea and there's a room down here just over there.-" Alex pointed to a black door on the wall behind the sofa, before motioning above her to a balcony they hadn't even noticed with a glass railing connecting to a set of floating black stairs. "And there's three up there."
"Alex this is amazing." Nyota said in awe as she moved further into the room circling trying to take it all in.
"Are you sure about this?" Leonard said in mild concern it looked all to expensive and the size alone would have cost her a pretty penny.
"I just thought it'd be nice, and this way nobody has to be alone on Christmas, not that you cant just stay in the actual rooms because there's everything you need in there. Just so there's company available if anyone needs it, im rambling and not making much sense so just do with it what you will-"
"This is a great idea, hey we can even get a tree!" Jim grinned from ear to ear looking at Alex with certain glint dancing in his eyes before looking around the room and finding a corner just underneath the balcony that hung over the kitchen. "We can put a tree there, cmon guys it'll be fun." Jim slapped Bones on the shoulder as he jogged and threw himself on the sofa grinning. "Spock do you celebrate Christmas or is there a Vulcan holiday around this time just so we know?"
"I have celebrated Christmas in the past, but not since the passing of my Mother… However I believe it would be beneficial to at the very least not spend this holiday season alone." Spock stated matter of factly.
"We love you too Spock." Alex waved him off with a half smile as she launched herself on the sofa alongside Jim, both of them sprawled out on seperate ends of the huge piece of furniture sinking in with giddy smiles.
"Hey Alex, did you ask Scotty if he wanted that spare room or is that an option?" Jim said shooting casual finger guns at her.
"I ran it past him but he said he's trying to focus more on him and Jaylah at the moment, that and apparently he's doing me a favour because I'd be distracted by his ass too much and it'd cause conflict." Alex snorted out a laugh alongside Jim and Nyota.
"Conflict, my ass." Leonard chuckled as he landed on the oversized sofa as well between Jim and Alex spreading his arms over the backrest as he leaned back with a groan. "Although I agree living for a month with three women could get a bit nasty."
"Wow." Nyota raised her brows as she sat down gracefully next to Alex leaning back and crossing her legs, giving Leonard a pointed look.
"Women only get catty when they don't communicate, me and Nyota are pretty good at that so there wouldn't be an issue."
"Not unless you didn't agree on something, 2 differing opinions is easier to diffuse than 3. Plus it might not be culturally appropriate in regards to Jaylah we don't know much about her in that sense." Leonard waved his hand nonchalantly as Spock perched himself on the far end of the sofa closest to Jim.
"I would never have thought you to be a man to consider peoples cultural beliefs and norms doctor are you feeling well?" Spock tilted his head towards Leonard with a half smirk as the southern doctor groaned, slapping a hand to his face while chuckling. The rest of them all outwardly chuckling at Leonards expense.
"Living with you for a month is gunna be a real treat, Spock. I was trying t' be sensitive."
"You know i've never really noticed if Scotty has a nice ass or not now that you mention it." Jim said still seemingly hung up on the topic of their chief engineer as everyone but Spock cracked up around him. Causing the blonde to turn and smile slightly realising he was behind on the conversation. "Im tired okay, my brain isn't keeping up with anything."
"Oh my God you're so right I think before I go do anything I'm going to need to go take a nap for an hour or two." Alex commented, pushing herself off the sofa languidly as she scurried up the stairs at lightning speed. "First come first serve on rooms, just saying."
"Claimed the one on the ground floor." Nyota stated, raising her hand in the air and pointing at the door behind the sofa.
"You don't want to see it first?" Leonard asked, raising a brow.
"Dont need to know its going to be better than last time either way… Plus better being as far out of ear shot as possible incase your memory comes back." Nyota smirked as Leonard turned to her with a cocked brow cheeks turning slightly pink.
"I really don't see that happening." Leonard commented poking Nyota in the side playfully as he shook his head with a half smile.
"If it happens before you do get youre memory back you'll have had two first times!" Jim added with a laugh as a pillow hit him in the face from the other side of the sofa.
"I don't want two first times, i just want a brain that damn well works." Leonard frowned lightly. "I get it we look like we're get along fine but its still… complicated."
Leonard stood heading up the stairs and onto the landing, his mood slightly soured. He could take a light ribbing and jokes, but it really did seem like nobody but Alex was taking his memory loss seriously at times.
Can I come in or we seperate r-
Come in you dummy, king size bed, super comfy, you need to relax.
Leonard sighed as he opened the door and closed it behind him not taking in any of the room at all rather than the huge bed with deep blue sheets and the lump at one side, seeing a hand come out and pat the pillow on the right he shook his head with a smile and pulled his shirt off and kicked off his shoes.
"Hard to relax at times with this whole situation i won't lie to you."
"I know, but you know they didn't mean any harm, you're tired, fatigued id bet aswell from how late you worked last night, so C'mere and zip it." The voice commanded from the lump of duvet on the left as he plodded over and slipped under the covers turning onto his side and sighing as he sunk into the mattress and an arm slicked around his waist, comforting and grounding him with its weight against his side.
Got an alarm set don't worry we won't be out for more than 3 hours.
Okay Ace.
Its sweetheart to you Mister.
Leonard couldn't help the deep chuckle that came out of him as he grinned against his pillow eyes closing as he let himself un tense. Sleep did sound like a good idea.
After their nap Leonard was promptly dragged out with Alex as she needed to go and get Spocks winnings from her lost bet with the Vulcan, Leonard appreciating the Navy blue figure hugging dress she was wearing with the square low cut neckline, not too low though. That and the pointed toe heels and her hair up in her familiar bun she looked like the perfect professional. He was almost stunned at how effortless she made the whole thing seem when she stepped out of the bathroom asking him to zip her into her dress while tying her hair into a bun, it wasn't that it was a particularly eye catching dress or outrageous style its just how well she seemed to pull it off. The air of confidence as she walked is what really did him in as they approached the double doors to what had been her 'old surgerys' building.
"Looks exactly like it did when I left it, I wonder how Harry's doing now he's running the show." Alex gazed at the simple sleek grey exterior and that familiar silver sign that read 'York Town - Osiris Medical Clinic.'
"So you did have other doctors working under you and not just nurses." Leonard commented with a cocked brow.
"Of course I may be young and pretty Leonard but im good at my job no need to act so shocked." Alex raised a brow back with a playful smirk.
Pushing through the doors they were greeted by a quiet waiting room and a receptionist on the phone at the front desk who's eyes went wide when she clocked them walking in.
"Yes so youre booked in at half past 3 this Friday thankyou byeee!" Slamming the phone down she grinned making an excited squealing noise as she leaned over the desk and wrapped her arms around Alex in a tight hug. "Its so good to see you, oh my god how have you been, everyone is going to freak out when they see you. Oh my God Doctor McCoy im so sorry I didn't see you there is there anything I can do for you?" She paused in her excitement as she sat back down abruptly and looked towards her computer screen.
"No no I'm with Alex."
"You know eachother." Alex asked curiously looking between the two.
"Oh not personally, I just used to take the deliveries every now and then of our surplus up to the main hospital, they were always buzzing whenever Doctor McCoy was there to lend a hand."
"Sounds like you're popular Leonard." Alex pulled a face of approval and she turned back to the small brunette at the desk. "Missed you Vicki, what songs playing in there at the moment?"
Vicki did some clicking before smirking with a snigger. "Ain't no rest for the wicked."
"Perfect." Alex said before waving Leonard to follow as she opened the doors into the surgery casually knowing nobody would pay her any mind at first. Singing quietly as she went, the click of her heels against the floor like music to Leonards ears.
Oh there ain't no rest for the wicked
Money don't grow on trees
I got bills to pay
I got mouths to feed
Ain't nothing in this world for free
I know I can't slow down
I cant hold back
Though you know I wish I could
Oh no there ain't no rest for the wicked, till we close our eyes for good
Leonard watched as she went between people engrossed in their tasks and adjusted a microscope here or held up a biohazard bin there. Handing someone a hypo and handing an older man a scalpel all while moving in time with the song hearing other people humming along aswell, he couldn't help but crack a smile as he watched the older man's face crack into a grin, his eyes slightly crinkling behind the large square frames of his glasses.
"Always knew how to make an entrance, welcome back." The distinct british accent rung out loud and clear over the music as other people started to look up from their task at the mans remark. And people started gasping then shouting happily as Alex embraced the man, the start of tears dancing in her eyes happiness shining through. "Oh god dont cry Darling you'll set me off. Come here." The man pulled her in for another hug and Leonard couldn't help but crack a smile at the warmth he knew she was feeling. Feeling it seep into him through there link, this place felt like home for her, or some version of home. There was a couple of minutes after of people hugging and chatter before Alex was heading towards him waving him towards another door.
"Alex Demora Reid, I hope you realise those are now my quarters."
"I do Harry, why is there an issue, got something to hide?" Alex challenged crossing her arms with a challenging brow raise and a smirk that matched the older man's.
"Depends on your intentions, and why- hold on are you dragging Leonard Mccoy towards my quarters, I knew you'd took a new role on the enterprise but-"
"Im just getting a couple things from the locker Harry, and yes I know Leonard Mccoy, why is everyone so shocked over this?"
"Because you had no idea who he was before going on that ship." Harry commented still perplexed.
"To be fair I had no idea who Alex was either till she beamed onto the ship." Leonard added.
"Understandable, she's brilliant, but isn't as well known as yourself Mccoy."
"Wait im well known?" Leonard frowned in confusion
"You really need to catch up with alot of things." Alex commented with an eye roll.
"Watch it witch, im still your boss." Leonard joked.
"Not while we're out of uniform so suck it." Alex spoke as she walked into her old quarters noticing Harry's things now littering the room as she approached the locker hidden beneath a certain patch in the floor.
"She really has a way with words." One of the male nurses commented laughing lightly with a smile.
"The chopping and changing from casual to professional always gave me whiplash." Harry sighed dramatically, leaning against a worktop.
"She has a professional side?" Leonard quipped, sarcastic humour evident in his tone.
"Harry save it, he's taken."
"Ah well, should you ever get bored." Harry spoke casually shrugging his shoulders.
"Flattered, but the missus has a mean streak." Leonard joked lightly with the man as Harry chuckled shaking his head.
"Im right here." Alex commented from the doorway a small box now in hand with a cocky look on her face.
"I was thinking the same thing so might aswell get in trouble saying it out loud, what's that?" Leonard asked confused before a more feminine voice piped up from the crowd of staff in the room.
"Wait youre together?"
"Yea-" Leonard and Alex both replied at the same time. "Oh my God, did we really not tell people?" Alex added frowning at the floor incredulously.
"Its not that, it's on the news. They were hinting that- it doesn't matter." The small blonde nurse quieted down before Alex put a hand on her hip and raised her brows expectantly. The man she called Harry raising his brows before looking around sceptically like he'd seen that look too many times before.
"Stacy. Out with it."
"They're making out like you and Spock could be an item, because I don't know both half Vulcans i guess."
Alex and Leonards face dropped, a wave of anger washed over Alexs face before her expression went blank. "You can't have male friends without the mainstream media shitting on it can you, Spock is my friend, he's been helping alot with coping with all this new news and new suppressed Vulcan bullshit that I'm finally realising I have- Me and Spock are not a thing, never been a thing. Its always been Leonard and I, from the start. So please, don't believe everything you see on the news." Alex said plonking herself on a stool with a sigh as she put her head in her hands.
"Ace, relax, the media will turn anything into a story if they think it'll bring in the views. This is easily fixed Darlin." Leonard put an arm on the worktop beside her chair and leaned in slightly keeping his voice low despite the complete lack of privacy.
"How though?" Alex mumbled through her hands.
"You could do an interview? Or release a statement of rumours you've heard and address them, perhaps coming out publicly with your actual relationship status will set them straight, you may get some unwanted attention for a while but it won't last too long I should think." Harry suggested in earnest, a lot of people around him nodding in agreement.
"I cant do that." Alex sighed.
"Why not?" Leonard frowned a little hurt that she seemed put off by the idea.
"Its not fair on you you idiot."
You don't have your memory back and the media is bloody ruthless.
"You really think i'd let a little amnesia get in the way of something like this? Besides, can't have the pointy eared bastard stealing the lime light." Leonard smirked. "Plus its not like you need to sort things out today, first day of shore leave take it easy."
"You can't just call people pointy Leonard." Alex said laughing lightly.
"Nahh he knows its a term of endearment, its an unspoken thing." Leonard waved her off.
"Harry. Me and you need to catch up im here all month so call me and we'll set something up, I'll be back soon guys I missed you all so much. You're doing great Papa H." Alex winked at Harry who shook his head fondly before putting a finger out to stop her from going anywhere just yet. Turning to the crowd of nurses and handful of other doctors and waving them back to work, all of them complying as the familiar bustle of a med bay found its way to their ears.
"Alex, how have the migraines been?" Harry spoke softly as he approached the pair standing close by as he scanned Alexs head briefly. Not seeing anything amiss he sighed in relief. Before noticing the scars on her scalp fully and looking wounded as he lifted a hand to graze them gently with trained fingers.
"I haven't had that many actually, and im fine honestly don't even worry about these. I was in good hands when I got back." Alex glanced at Leonard and a smile threatening to spread on her lips. Sending appreciative thoughts to him regardless of if he could remember or not.
"That is good to hear, both things are actually. You know I worry, but migraines are manageable considering the complexity of what happened. As for these, are you quite sure you don't want them removed?"
"Im sure Harry, they're kinda Punk to be honest, like a massive fuck you to the Xenophobic Vulcans out there, or as Zack liked to call anyone so inclined-"
"Space Racists, I dont agree with much the boy says but he hit the nail on the head with that one, its probably one of the only things ourselves as a race have got better with over the years, it befuddles me that other highly intelligent species cannot do the same. Do visit the hair dresser though Alex i can see your split ends from a mile off and your 'shaved' side is looking awfully overgrown."
"As Long as its not a bowl cut go for it." Leonard added shivering at the thought, he didnt need anything but the man himself reminding him of Spock. "Also what happened to cause the migraines? it doesn't state on her files an official reason. It just says 'accident.'"
Harry frowned at that baring his teeth slightly as he growled. "Of course it bloody does, starfleet for all of the good they do, sometimes are absolutely useless. It was a genetic re write of sorts. A transporter malfunction."
"I got turned into a man for a while, the transporter malfunctioned on regeneration of my atoms and arranged them as though I'd been born and lived with a Y chromosome instead of the double X I was used too. It was a pretty harmless accident as they have lots of things in place with the transporters that store every persons data print and dna, there just so happened to be a blip and the system already having multiple saves of my data print brought me back with whichever sex it could manage. A couple of people had the same thing happen to them we're all fine now Harry is just a worry wart."
"Thats terrifying, I knew those things were death traps but I didn't know they could mess up like that." Leonard looked horrified as the information sunk in.
"You were adorably nieve as a young man I must say." Harry quipped elbowing Alex in the side playfully as she stuck her tongue out at him. "Too pretty of a face to not grab people's attention as per usual, she got into quite a spot of trouble on multiple occasions mostly for being herself, though still hardly fair on her being stuck in a different body and all."
"You need to tell me about this when we get back this is, well it's intresting and might help me figure out what painkillers would work best for those headaches."
"Do I have too." Alex pouted as both men looked at her expectantly.
"Ah my sweet summer child, its not as though there's any particularly morbid or saucy bits to tell so you might aswell." Harry quipped with a laugh as she scowled at him.
"Shut up Harry id completely shut out the entire fortnight from my mind before you asked about the migraines. Okay ill tell you but only when we get back. May aswell tell the others aswell if they're there."
"Goodluck Alex. It was lovely to see you again ill give you a text later." Harry smiled as he waved them out of the door, a smile turning to a playful but apologetic smirk as he saw the pet lip on the red heads face.
"You know I'm sure I've seen his face in one of those old pre war movies I just can't put my finger on it." Leonard commented glancing back at the man with a frown of concentration but coming up with nothing as they left the building.
"I wouldn't be surprised I've weirdly seen alot of close comparisons to old and long gone celebrities to people who are around today, it was a huge study over a couple of years just simply gathering photos and comparisons pretty intresting though, some theories say it has to be passed down for some of them to be so close, I'll see if I can find it for you, its a good read." Alex smiled nonchalantly, grabbing Leonards hand as they walked, intertwining their fingers.
Leonard felt her mind stutter before he squeezed her hand in reassurance.
"Im sorry, is this okay?"
"Relax. I can handle a little hand holding." Leonard smiled at her fondly a little playfulness in his eyes as she smirked at him.
"Well that's a relief, how's your head been anyway, like headspace and pain wise. I know this is all kinda odd." Alex admitted enjoying the fact she was the same height as him in the heels she was wearing as the walked hand in hand down to the local teleport, thankfully this area was relatively quiet with very little foot traffic or there's no way they'd be able to hear eachother speak.
"Im actually more okay than I thought id be with the whole thing, fighting against it and being annoyed at myself wasn't really helping anyone, my plan right now is going with the flow. And no pain, stop diagnosing me in your head and relax. We're off duty."
"Its so hard to keep your head out of work though I don't know what to do with myself or what to do with free time." Alex motioned with both hands dramatically bringing Leonards hand with her in turn making Leonard cuss himself out for feeling so happy that she was comfortable enough with him to properly be herself, hand motions and all.
"I mean there's always food, they have movie theatres here, sports, gyms, our room literally has a swimming pool. You don't actually have to do anything just enjoy the time not at work. I'm planning on kicking back wherever I land with a glass of bourbon in the hotel room until I can come up with anything better."
"That does sound like a good idea." Alex agreed
"Well feel free to join me, whats in the box anyway?" Leonard tilted his head towards the small box she was holding with curiosity.
"Its tea."
"Of course it is." Leonard snorted, shaking his head. The hobgoblin had a tea problem.
Back at the room they'd arrived to find nobody was home, a note off Nyota saying she went to do some shopping and would probably be back in an hour or two. While Leonard went to check and grab what the hotel had stocked for them on the bottle rack Alex had went to get changed leaving the man to wander out into the balcony with two glasses in one hand and a bottle of whiskey in the other, proper whiskey as well not that replicated stuff some bars sold.
It was oddly picturesque as he looked out to see the rest of york Town all rotated angles and with some upside down buildings because of the places strange artificial gravity. But what was better is it was quiet, the lights across the entire snow globe esc planet where dimming down and it was nice and quiet from the 40th floor. And it was warm thanks to the lack of breeze and the hotels insanely complex heating. Sighing Leonard plonked himself on one of the undoubtedly useless sun loungers, glad he'd opted for a simple Jean and long sleeved pull over shirt look rather than opting for a proper button up and unscrewed the lid on the bottle, watching the water from the pool and the hypnotic way the lights made the water shimmer. He vaguely noticed the hot tub aswell at the far end of the pool closer to him as he heard bubbles start up randomly, like the pool was trying to tempt him.
Maybe after a couple of drinks
"Maybe what after a couple of drinks?" The red heads voice chimed from his side, Leonard still unable to pull his eyes away from the glistening water and its gentle waves.
"Noticed there's a hot tub, id need to check if I even own a pair of trunks though." Leonard pulled his attention back as he looked at the two empty glasses he'd sat on his lap apologising as he started pouring. "Sorry kinda zoned out." He mumbled hearing a small hum as his reply as a slender hand came into view and grabbed one of the glasses. A frown forming as he saw some fabric land across his legs before he looked up, his mouth went dry.
"Will you keep that dry for me?" Alex stood facing the pool, clad in a deep green bikini that left little to the imagination as she casually took her hair out of the bun it was in and let it fall down her back.
Leonard took a second to kick his brain into gear only just managing to formulate a reply. "Yea-" he croaked out, knuckles white on the glass he was holding, unable to look away. "Of course." He drawled, blinking a couple of times in shock.
"You getting a sore throat?" Alex asked turning around and putting a hand on her hip in concern, seemingly not doing any of this on purpose as she frowned at the man who could only cough to clear his throat, finally meeting her eyes casual as anything.
"I hope not." He said downing his drink in one and smiling at the red head making sure he was keeping his thoughts to himself. Watching as she sat herself on the edge of the pool.
"You could just call the front desk i know they sell trunks and other swimwear."
"Thats not a bad idea." Leonard drawled pouring himself another drink as he mulled over the idea. Not prepared at all for Nyota to come bursting out onto the balcony with a multitude of shopping bags, giving him no time to silently appreciate the deep green against milky white skin.
"Ive stocked the fridge, cupboards, and freezer, ive got some more alcohol, specifically wine, and of course did some clothes shopping because I am not wearing that uniform any more than I need too- oh my god that bikini is gorgeous on you, where did you get it from?" Nyota stopped in he tracks looking at the bikini with envy.
"Little boutique in the mall called Sansa- wait you bought all the food? You didn't need to do that Nyota, how much let me pay half atleast-"
"No no its the least I could do, now shh. I'm joining you in the pool and switching off. Leonard." Nyota turned to the man who froze in pouring himself another drink and looked up at her expectantly. "Can you pour me a drink please?"
"Sure thing, you got any trunks laying around by any chance?" Leonard quirked a brow as he leaned precariously towards trolley on the poolside stocked up with an ice box and glasses.
"Ill request a pair from the the front desk for you, be right back-" Nyota waved him off as she sped back inside.
"You're playing it risky there Leonard, she could request a pair of speedos and you'd be stuck." Alex chimed in laughing as the man smirked with mirth.
"My ass isn't nice enough for speedos so they'd be getting left to rot, ill go in in my pants if I have too."
Alex tutted him as she sunk into the pool slowly turning in the water so her arms were rested on the edge of the pool facing him with a raised brow. "Lazy Leonard Mccoy, soon to be half cut Horatio."
Leonard snorted. " I wish I was close to half cut, it'd be much cheaper to get a good buzz on, got atleast seven more glasses before then sweetheart."
Before Alex could reply there was a flash of pink that ran through the doors and out onto the balcony headed straight for the pool, something landing with a huge splash as the offending pink item floated on the water, an inflatable sun lounger shaped like a flamingo.
Surfacing with a huge grin and slicking his hair back with his hand Jim immediately jumped onto the sun lounger laid on his belly he dragged himself up and paddled towards Alex and Leonard eventually propping himself on his side one leg bent and hand holding his head up.
"I have no words." Alex commented with a laugh.
"They were struggling to sell it downstairs so I had to have it, Bones! Are you the bar man tonight or are you coming for a swim? Ill make room for you on the flamingo?"
"When I get in that pool I'm capsizing you, that thing is huge." Leonard chuckled pouring Jim a drink out aswell and sliding it on the ground towards Alex who passed the blonde it while laughing.
"Nice bikini." Jim commented playfully taking a sip from his glass eyebrows wiggling at the red haired doctor trying to get a rise from her. All he got was a smile before she disappeared under water, the blonde frowning momentarily before he saw her swimming towards him. "No no no my drink, my dr- AHHH-" Jim was capsisized in an instant, the pink inflatable landing on his head as he resurfaced. "You so owe me a drink!" Jim laughed punching the inflatable towards the red head who was cackling to herself, hair slicked back against her head holding onto the edge of the pool for dear life while she laughed.
"You gunna tell me the story of what happened with that transporter incident then, Witch?" Leonard cocked a brow at her watching her stick her tongue out at him. Jim leaning on the side of the pool waiting for Leonard to pour him another drink not paying much attention.
"Theres not that much to tell, there was a fault in the system and I had to live as a man for 2 weeks. Well- not any man what I would have been if I was born male, they did try explaining what actually happened to me but I really can't remember all the details."
"You lived as a man? What? Did I hear that right." Jims interest piqued as he turned towards the red head with a quizzical look on his face.
"You lived as a man? What did I just walk into here and who are we talking about." Nyota spoke as she stepped out onto the balcony a book and bottle of wine in hand wrapped in a deep purple beach kimono.
"Alex had an accident with a transporter while she was living here." Leonard cleared up, gesturing towards the red head in the pool.
"It was only for 2 weeks, it was a learning experience and very inconvenient, took a couple days to get used to the testosterone levels I was very hormonal for about 3 days." Alex sighed remembering the whole ordeal all over again.
"Okay, continue, this is actually really interesting i never knew things like that could happen? What did you look like?" Nyota asked draping herself on one of the pointless sun loungers next to Leonard who passed her her glass of whiskey nonchalantly.
Alex laughed lightly. "Not what you'd expect me too." She hummed trying to think of how she'd describe it. " I was a couple of inches taller, kind of athletic build but also kinda square? I dont know how I'd describe it to be honest. I had mucky dark blonde hair, I wasn't as white as a sheet. Still had my green eyes though. And I got into alot of trouble, I wasn't used to- well my face, and certain expressions came across as way more flirty on my male face than I'd have liked. Harry, someone I used to work with back at the surgery, said I kept flitting between looking like I could have any woman I wanted, to looking like I'd take it happily from their boyfriends. It was a complicated week or two."
Jim couldn't help laughing as he leaned his head onto his arm before taking a sip of a fresh drink. "Not many faces can convey both of those things."
"Do you have any photos?" Nyota asked, glass already half empty.
"Not many, most photo or video evidence was documented by Harry, theres no medical photo evidence only ones I know of were taken out of work hours, also incase you all think I got too lucky i did have a receding hairline as a man in my early twenties."
"Damn that is unlucky." Jim commented not being able to imagine anything of the sort when looking at her current full and thick hair."but pics or it didn't happen."
"You're really going to make me get out of the pool-"
"Alex." Spock walked onto the balcony with a data padd in his hand wearing all black shirt and trousers. "You have received approximately 4 messages in the space of a minute i thought it could be urgent."
"That'll be Harry, can you check who's sent them please Spock… I forgot to bring a towel out."
"The sender is named… Papa H." The entire group snorted at those words coming from Spocks mouth, the Vulcan looking around the group accusingly before continuing. "It appears to be a number of images accompanied by the phrase 'it's an interesting situation and mildly embarrassing for you so don't forget to tell them."
"I hate how on the ball he is." Alex sighed watching as Jim made grabby hands towards the data padd from the pool Spock giving him a confused look before looking back to Alex for explanation. "Those photos are probably of me Spock that's why Jim wants to see, you missed out on the story, but long story short, a transporter glitched out a while back and I got turned into a man for 2 weeks." Spocks one eyebrow met his hairline as he looked back at the images on display.
"Fascinating." Leonard couldn't help the eye roll as he heard the word leave Spocks lips, watching as Jim's grabby hands only got more aggressive.
"You can all look if you need to its not that exciting-"
"No its cool and like super interesting, ooohhh not bad not bad, I love how he's took some of the photos in black and white for dramatic effect. And-" Jim couldn't help cracking a huge grin as another photo was sent of Alex, fresh in her male body sat head in hands on a bio bed with a middle aged looking man cutting a uniform dress off her-him. "You had to be cut out of your uniform dress huh?-"
"What! That asshole, its not funny I could have died that stuff just didn't want to tear it was like a second skin! Gimme that!" Alex swam over towards Jim but before she got there he'd already handed it to Nyota.
Nyota seemed to pause as her hand deftly swiped between images, her eyes peering over the top of the data pad at Alex every now and again in consideration. "I wouldn't even recognise you if it wasn't for the eyes, the short hair does look better than the initial head full of blonde loches though. Not that you look bad, you look good- well-"
"Nyotas got the hots for meeee~" Alex sang out teasingly doing a little dance while stood in the pool making Nyota roll her eyes as Jim and Leonard cackled. "Went to one of those re growth salons when I got turned back to my regular self to grow it all out so didn't see the harm in getting it chopped off."
"Did you know at the time it wasn't permanent?"
"Not immediately no, but almost as soon as it was reported the engineers and science department got in contact with everyone letting them know it was reversible. Wasn't the first time it had happened, although changing back had me in bed for a fair few days, surprisingly painful. They have to put you back through the transporter system and its easy enough to set up the original data but youre essentially being rebuilt again while your atoms are scattered. Basically results in a pounding headache and weakness for a while, with a bit of nauesea and nerve twinges if you're really unlucky. Although they couldn't explain to me why the initial gender flip wasn't painful, all I got was 'we're not sure it's just never caused adverse reactions unless you're talking mood swings and behavioral.'"
"Remind me to never get in another transporter again." Leonard commented with a concerned frown.
"It hasn't happened in years Leonard and the time before it happened to me was back on earth over a century ago. You'll be fine." Alex reassured. "You'd make a very angry lady." She added earning her a un amused glare as Jim laughed.
Leonard took the data pad from Nyota as the conversation veered into something else entirely. Chuckling as he saw the most recent photo of Alex being cut out of her dress. Scrolling through he couldn't help an eyebrow quirking up at the other photos, he couldn't really relate them to the woman in the pool but the man was attractive, the smile reminded him of Jim when he was at the academy. The eyes were the same like she had said which is what made the photos slightly unsettling for him, he could see her happiness and annoyance in the eyes but the face was completely different, a strong square jaw and a rigid straight nose, far more masculine than her current one.But then the similarities, the smile felt the same, the curve of the mouth and his lips… they were close to the originals, just a fraction thinner, still. For a human male they were quite plump.
You better not be calling me fat
Leonard immediately looked over staying stock still as he glanced at the red head from his seat, shaking his head to her and letting a small laugh escape him.
Not at all, just taking it the subtle differences and similarities, it's pretty damn intriguing.
"In my academy days I would have struggled finding a date if you were around in that body." Jim gave Alex a nod before frowning and lifting a finger. "Did you do anything in that body?"
"Good god no, I couldn't put someone through that it'd just be embarrassing for both parties involved."
"Cmon of course it wouldn't have been."
"It would have been dreadful. In my mind all previous experience was there but it's a brand new body with different nerve endings. I wasn't going to make a tit of myself, especially in that respect. I was literally a virgin, and I wouldn't subject anyone to that."
"I can understand her reasoning to be honest." Nyota agreed with a swift nod and sip of wine.
"You could have tried other stuff?"
"I wasn't particularly in the mood to take it up the ass if I'm honest Jim I was a little pre occupied with freaking out about all other aspects of living as a man."
Leonard couldn't help but spit his drink out as he chocked, laughing between wheezy breaths alongside Nyota and Jim.
"It was an intresting experience with positives and negatives. Sex wasn't high on my list of things to do. I was having trouble with basic things like morning wood, suddenly needing ball room in trousers and trying to figure out how to pee while standing up, which I gave up trying to master almost immediately. And getting kicked in the nuts… god I feel sick just thinking about it." Alex held her hand over her mouth as she frowned deep seemingly re living a traumatic event. "And the body image issues. Christ it was a long couple of weeks."
"I can imagine the psychological affects must have been very varied, although fascinating it does not sound like an ordeal anyone would go through willingly." Spock commented earning a nod from everyone but Jim.
"I'd do it. If I knew I could change back id be a woman for 2 weeks. It sounds weird and like it could be rough but I'd still do it for science and out of curiosity."
"I think if it was a choice without all the side effects I'd try it, just out of professional curiosity. It might give me a better understanding on how pain effects the female body aswell as hormonal changes."
"Right cuz I could definitely picture the both of you handling your first period with absolute finesse and grace." Alex commented with a raised brow as Nyota let out a small giggle.
"I could handle it." Jim spoke defiantly, puffing his chest out slightly as he crossed his arms.
"Music! We need music." Nyota stated looking directly at Alex with a face full of mischief. " I also propose a drinking game idea since Alex has one of the most diverse playlists of old classics, it'll be fun or get us drunk quick so win win. Everyone gets to pick a song each in turn, the people that don't know it have to drink. Alex you have to drink atleast once a round considering you'll probably know all of them."
"You could always use my playlist as a start and just search things on the app if I don't have it downloaded. Although this definitely requires a move from pool to jacuzzi." Alex sang out happily pulling herself out of the water and grabbing her glass and pad out of Leonards hands as she skipped past, giving him a wink as she went.
I've just had a great idea
Alex thought at Leonard as the man paused in getting up.
About what?
About how we can confirm we're together without an interview. We just need to take a photo together.
That is absolutely genius, and you can post it to that app that you blog on.
Exactly what I was thinking, it doesn't even have to be together as long as its something nobody can mistake and the caption could help make it obvious too.
If you need me to pose on your bed with a cushion infront of my junk im sorry im out
Leonard couldn't help but chuckle as he watched the red head snort into her glass as she sunk into the jacuzzi.
Whilst that would be very funny and very obvious, I was thinking something more subtle that wouldn't have you end up being plastered on tabloids.
Subtle and obvious… how can we go about this.
I mean a selfie would be an obvious option, I could take a photo of you starfish on the bed and add a clever caption? Ugh you know what this is harder than I thought it would be, I dont mind taking photos but its more difficult when its forced for something.
I feel you, be easier than an interview though.
True. Plus its not like people werent already speculating. The video i posted a while back had people talking but the main stream media have put a different idea in peoples heads now.
We can sort it out later, just enjoy yourself.
"I guess I'll go get the trunks i asked for." Leonard rolled his eyes as he watched Jim climb into the jacuzzi like an uncoordinated gorilla.
If its a speedo I want photos
Bite me
"I think you'll be surprised at mine and Bones's knowledge of really old classics, hell Bones introduced me to a couple of really old bands- ever heard of AC/DC?" Jim questioned raising a brow as he saw some recognition on Nyotas face and Alexs face literally lit up.
"I fucking love AC/DC, what song do you want on?" Alex wiggled her eyebrows
"I mean there's so many great songs but one of my favourites has to be 'girls got rhythm'."
"Excellent choice, Spock pull up a chair youre about to get a classic rock music lesson. " Alex spoke tapping furiously till the music started blasting from the speakers of her padd. Herself and Jim immediately mouthing along to the lyrics.
Leonard could hear music that he recognised as he approached the balcony doors in black swimming trunks that came to mid thigh and sat low on his waist, towel in hand and t shirt still on for the moment he stepped out of the doors and immediately knew what song was on his face lighting up in suprise as he looked towards the hot tub. Jim and Alex serenading him without hesitation.
She's like a lethal brand
Too much for any man
She gives me first degree
She really satisfies me
Love me till I'm legless
Aching and sore
Enough to stop a freight train
Or start the Third World War
Leonard was wearing a grinning smirk at this point as he walked towards the hot tub, "You know AC/DC?"
"Damn right i do, I can't believe you never told me you did!" Alex poked him in the chest as he got to the side of the hot tub, watching as he laughed and pulled his shirt over his head throwing it at one of the sun loungers before hiking a leg up to get into the jacuzzi hot tub combo. "You pick the next song Leonard c'mon, I wanna judge your music taste a lil bit. " there was a wicked look in Alexs eye and a charged excitement prickled down their link as Leonard smirked, glad he'd wheeled the drinks trolley over before he'd got in.
"Let Nyota go first i need to think of a good one." He drawled motioning to Nyota who smirked like she knew something nobody else did.
"Since we're in an AC/DC mood as of now, im putting one of my old favourites on." Taking Alexs padd she typed a song in passing it too Alex before it played laughing as Alex threw her head back laughing.
"Nyota this- this is literally your song." Alex wheezed lightly as the music kicked in and Jim frowned slightly as the music slowly built up Leonard immediately raising both eyebrows in surprise looking at Nyota with laughter as he clicked on.
"Well now we know who wears the pants in your relationships." Leonard chuckled into his drink watching Nyota throw her head back and laugh openly as Jim clicked his fingers and started singing along with a grin on his face.
But she won't sacrifice
What you want tonight
She won't come across
Unless there's money in her hand and she's callin' all the shots
She got you by the balls
She got you by the balls
When the song had finished Leonard put his hand out for the padd, locking eyes with Alex, the red head returning his heated stare as she handed him the padd with a soft smirk as she got a sense of what was to come, not a song about but almost for her. And as the first cords started to play she couldn't help but smile across at Leonard who quirked a mischievous brow at her.
She was a fast machine, she kept her motor clean
She was the best damn woman that I ever seen
She had the sightless eyes, telling me no lies
Knocking me out with those American thighs
Taking more than her share, had me fighting for air
She told me to come, but I was already there
'Cause the walls start shaking, the Earth was quaking
My mind was aching, and we were making it
And you... shook me all night long
Yeah, you... shook me all night long
After the song had finished Alex was struggling to think of a song of her own. Leonard telling her to pick something not AC/DC or it seemed they'd all be there all night. Until she had a light bulb moment and looked at Nyota with a cheeky grin. "You know when I showed you one of my favourite old films, do you remember the song at the end?"
"Oh my God do you think you can stop yourself doing your little dance, because i don't know if I can. This song... you guys are in for a treat if you've never heard it before." Nyota said barely holding it together as the intro sprang to life followed by a very pornographic slow hypnotic rhythm Alex and Nyota mouthing the words to eachother as they swayed.
Baby take off your coat
Real slow
Take off your shoes
I'll take off your shoes
Baby, take off your dress
Yes, yes, yes
You can leave your hat on
You can leave your hat on
You can leave your hat on
Go over there, turn on the lights
All the lights
Come back here, stand on that chair
Yea, that's right
Raise your arms up in the air
And now shake 'em
Fully committed and far to into the music Alex raised her arms up in the air like the song requested and shook her chest in Nyotas general direction as Nyota did the same both laughing in earnest before joining eachother in the chorus.
"You give me reason to live
You give me reason to live
You give me reason to live
You give me reason to live!"
"Now you've been introduced to a masterpiece. Drink. Both of you." Alex instructed humming happily to herself as they both drank, Spock taking the data padd from its spot on the drink trolley with a thoughtfull look as he began typing.
"I am aware I am not participating in the act of drinking but I may remember a song that I think none of you will know, I heard it in a club whilst at the academy, though it is very basic lyrically I couldn't help but find it… catchy." Spock stated.
"You went to clubs?!" Leonard spoke in shock. Earning him a half smirk from the Vulcan.
"They are far from my favourite places to be, however they had their benefits. " Spock spoke very inconspicuously eyes darting around like he'd given too much away, Alex throwing her head back in laughter as she slapped Spock on shoulder realising exactly what he was talking about.
"We've all been there Spock, now what's this song?" Jim chuckled lightly as he perked up hearing upbeat music start playing through the speakers something he really wasn't expecting but it did make him want to dance, he could see why it was played in clubs even if it was an old song. The chorus playing to start getting them all into the swing of it as even Leonard nodded along.
We were victims of the night
The chemical, physical, kryptonite
Helpless to the bass and the fading light
Oh we were bound to get together
Bound to get together
She took my arm
I don't know how it happened
We took the floor and she said
Oh don't you dare look back
Just keep your eyes on me
I said you're holding back
She said shut up and dance with me
This woman is my destiny
She said oh oh oh
Shut up and dance with me
"This is good Spock." Leonard commented bobbing along. "Pop isn't normally my thing but its catchy."
"Oh my God ive just checked the time… we started drinking at 4 in the afternoon and its only just turned half past 5…" Alex said covering her mouth and laughing into her hand as she looked at Nyota who waved her wine glass back with a smile.
"We're allowed to start early its shore leave, though I'm not planning on getting too drunk tonight, we should go on a night out later in the week though, could be fun." Nyota clicked her glass against Alexs as they both smirked at eachother in agreement.
"Ill drink to that." Leonard mumbled, musical drinking game forgotten about as they let the music shuffle in the background.
"This is nice. I mean I'd have probably preferred somewhere with a sun but-" Jim shrugged while grinning sinking down into the water a bit more putting both arms out across the back rest. "A month is such a long time…"
"You're banned from going back onto the ship to check on anything for atleast the first week." Alex commented pointing at him accusingly. "That goes for you too Spock. And- you know what all of you are banned from the ship for 1 week."
"I wasn't going to- maybe just to check on some repairs-" Jim admitted in a whine as Alex shook her head.
"You have Scotty overseeing repairs and they won't even start them till what 5 days from now? You need to have fun, not work related fun, or terrorize your crew type fun."
"Terrorize my crew? Alex how could you." Jim faked hurt as he put his hand over his heart.
"I still haven't forgiven you for the whoopie cushion incident. So don't act all innocent." Alex pointed at him and laughed as Leonard started practically cackling across from her, setting Jim off laughing aswell.
"You just need to get revenge, I can help." Nyota stated matter of factly as Alex nodded at her in agreement.
"I already have some ideas to be honest its just how to execute them, also check your pad when you can ive sent you something important." Alex pointed at Nyota with a look only Nyota seemed to be able to decipher before she glanced at Leonard.
I've let her know about our little idea and the whole situation, hopefully saves Spock from any unwanted attention and Jim from any awkward and unwanted questions, being the captain and all.
Better having an extra persons perspective on things than just us two.
Exactly.
"What do you guys want for Christmas by the way?" Jim asked casually.
"Nothing." Alex said quickly. A little too quickly making sure she blocked Leonard from her thoughts as the selfish thought of wanting the man to get his memory back soon was the only thing she wanted. "I literally can't think of anything I want that I don't already have." She added with a shrug.
"If you cant think of something I'm gunna have to guess, I hope the rest of you have some idea of a gift that you'd like." Jim pointed at them accusingly. "I don't wanna just be dishing out credits you know its so un personal."
A gentle melody from a guitar drifted to their ears as Jim finished speaking.
Almost heaven
West Virginia
Blue ridge Mountains
Shenandoah River
Life is old there older than the trees
"Ah-" Leonard put his hand to his head as a strange burning sensation seemed to spring up out of nowhere not noticing Alex in discomfort next to him as the feeling got more intense.
Older than the trees
Younger than mountains
Blowing like a breeze
"Bones? Bones whats wrong, whats going on?" Jims featured were creased with concern as he leaned foward, Nyota putting her hand on Alexs shoulder aswell as the woman closed her eyes in what seemed like pain.
Country Roads
Take me home
"My God." Leonard mummbled, everything flooding back to him at lighting speed after a short flash of pain, every memory, every word, a conversation here, a smirk there.
To the place
I belong
"Leonard!" Alex half shouted at the man right next to her her arm coming out and latching onto his shoulder with urgency as something through their mind link clicked back into place, that warm feeling of familiarity returning. She felt like she was going to hyperventilate as he looked up at her with a grin, and that recognition in his eyes that she'd longed for for so long now. The confusion on the others faces apparent as they slowly caught up with what had just happened.
West Virginia
Mountain mama
Take me home
Country Roads
"Well I'm never getting amnesia again sweetheart I can tell you that for sure-" Leonard spoke still grinning from ear to ear as the red head pulled herself into his lap wrapping her arms around him trapping him in the tightest hug as he hugged her back the others cheering joyfully when they clicked on.
Alex leaned back unable to stop the tears flowing as Leonard wiped them away with his thumbs.
I missed you so much
"Im back Ace, it's okay, m' sorry it took so long Darlin'."
"Don't fucking move, im going to get a bottle of whiskey or im gunna have a mental breakdown."
"Im getting out of here if you're getting the good stuff out, can't risk a slip tryna get out of this thing half cut."
"Okay but be careful i swear if you so much as stumble I'll kill you." Alex stole Jims towel quickly giving herself a once over to dry herself mostly off before she threw on the sheer black kimono she'd originally thrown at Leonard before going in the pool.
"Jim, turn this shit off I hate this song." Bones hissed as he heard the same lyrics that made him remember repeat and the aweful memories that they brought with them circle in his mind as he climbed out of the hot tub being careful as he speed walked back into their penthouse, because lets face it, that's what it was, this shit wasn't just 'a room.'
"Witch, you can't just walk around like that you'll catch a cold." Leonard commented as he walked in seeing her round the corner from the kitchen with a bottle in hand and a wobbly smile on her face as her eyes still watered slightly. "Come here you soft bastard." Leonard said pulling her into a tight hug her head resting on his shoulder as he placed a kiss on top of her head frowning in concern at her still soaked hair. She really would catch a cold if she carried on like this. "We're gunna go upstairs and you're gunna get changed into something comfortable, you look great sweetheart but you're gunna catch your death, and I really need to see you comfy right now."
You don't have to keep trying to catch my eye anymore Darlin' you've had my attention through everything anyway, and you'll have my attention when you're in those holey boxers and that life on Mars shirt too.
I love you
I love you too, how ironic is it that we made this damn mind link a day or two before I hit my head? This is our first time properly using it with all my memories in tact.
I wouldn't say its ironic, but I do much prefer it now you're using it with all the background information filled in
Leonard felt Alex let out a huff of muffled laughter into his chest as he smirked down at her.
"Does that mean I don't have to sleep on the couch tonight, you know in case we accidentally get into it?" Leonard jibed and laughed when he was promptly slapped on the chest as she looked up at him with mirth in her eyes while shaking her head in disbelief.
"You are unbelievable."
"I missed you. Not remembering that is." Leonard put the words out in the open hoping they made some semblance of sense.
"I missed you too, but atleast now we don't have to worry about fucking up the mind link by fucking." Alex raised a brow suggestively as she turned away pulling his hand lightly before it dropped from her grip as she headed to the stairs.
"I had come to that realisation myself, believe it or not." Leonard smirked mischievously as he joked. Eyes flooded with contempt and happiness as he watched her walking away soon following behind.
Surprisingly only sharing a kiss or two when they got to their room as they both got changed, Leonard into his usual washed out dark gray jeans and shirt combo, smart but comfortable sleeves rolled up to his elbows and Alex into a pair of blue high waisted skinny jeans and a long sleeve t shirt that made Leonard laugh as the tiny font across her chest read 'nosey little fucker aren't you'.
Heading back out onto the balcony overlooking the living room, they saw that Nyota Jim and Spock were all still enjoying themselves in the jacuzzi. Leonard stopped and put a hand out turning to Alex with a smirk. "Do you wanna go for a drink, just me and you. They won't even know we've gone."
"Yes, two second this is not a going out for a drink top." Alex darted back into the bedroom, door not fully closed as she ripped the shirt up over her head with lightning quick speed. Making Leonard chuckle. The red head re appearing quickly by his side with a emerald green slim fitted silk top on and a little leather jacket, adjusting one of the spaghetti straps quickly she nodded and practically dragged the man down the stairs. Leonard quickly grabbing his own leather jacket from the back of the sofa as they darted past and out the door.
After what seemed like forever. Scouting the nearby bars and clubs they finally managed to find a relatively quiet place, all the booths full, music that wasnt too loud and 2 empty stools beside eachother at the bar. Settling in at the stools Leonard smirked at her under the dim lights.
"So, whats with the envelopes? Spill." He commented waving the bar tender over and ordering 2 whiskeys while he heard the red head sigh in exasperation.
"They're thankyou letters, what else would they be, theres gifts with em too not in the envelope of course but yea-" Alex shrugged taking a sip of the drink Leonard had ordered her and looking down at it in shock. "Damn this is good, what is this?"
"I thought you might like it, I cant pronounce the name for the life of me but the Orions sure know how to make whiskey. And you don't need to thank us for anything."
"Look don't okay- its already done and im not gunna argue with you about it. Change subject."
"Alright then, tell me about your family you seem to have a huge family compared to me, any of them in starfleet?" Leonard quirked a brow casually as Alex smiled at him.
"Yea my Dad was in starfleet for a while, so is my older brother Eggsy- Gary, god thats such an old nickname. He's an engineer, he's stationed on the USS Endeavour, with all of the assholes we grew up with to deal with who also joined starfleet." Alex subtly put her head in her hands and smiled fondly while shaking her head. "Jacob stayed on earth, works in computing, got married and is living with my dad while he saves to buy a house. I mean he's smart but he just didn't want to go shooting off into space. Especially after Chris was killed."
"Chris? Someone was killed?" Leonard frowned in deep concern.
"Chris Pike, Admiral Pike. He was sort of like family, my dad stopped him from being hit by a car by a drunk asshole after they'd both held their own in a bar fight, they just were always in contact after that. Its also why my dad has a bionic leg." Alex shrugged again pulling an exaggerated 'shit happens' face as she laughed.
"That is a whole lot to take in at once I won't lie." Leonard chuckled alongside her, ordering them both another drink.
"Dont over think it honestly, its not a big deal, it was kinda like having a second dad, honestly at times I could have slapped him in the face, like- oh god that magazine you have now, with the underwear shot."
Alex physically face planted the bar as she started laughing. "I got pulled into his office and the look on his face he's sat there between awkward, annoyed and confused. And all he said to start with when he threw the magazine on his desk was 'i am not covering for you if your dad sees this.' Then he starts going on about how he saw cadet reading it in a lesson and confiscated it, and what if people realise its you and all this."
"What'd you do?" Leonard hummed, a mischievous smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.
"I told him if they were cute he could send them my way." Alex laughed with Leonard at the memory. "Then I told him he was over thinking it, it was just a means to get some extra money for text books and I even got to keep the underwear and he was doing the thing he used to do, where he'd lean back in his chair and just look at you unbelievingly. Nearly made him choke when I told him to take a look at the photo and tell me I wasn't a big girl who could handle herself, and that I wasn't 12 anymore."
Leonard choked on his drink as laughter rolled through him. "Good god woman- I cant even imagine the look on his face-"
"You should have seen it- he just went this weird grey shade of red and told me I could go.-" Alex explained between bursts of laughter. Her laughter turning into a contagious wheezing that had Leonard laughing harder at her laughter while pointing a finger at her, the red head knowing exactly what he meant.
"Shut up, I can't help it." She swatted at his hand bracing herself with one hand on the bar and one on Leonards knee as she leaned forward grinning, trying to get her laughter under control.
"Can't believe you knew Admiral Pike that well."
"I cant believe we were probably at the academy together and never saw eachother, I bumped into Jim a couple of times, but never you, or Nyota. I know I would have been a couple years behind but it just seems crazy."
"You bumped into Jim?" Leonard cocked a brow knowing exactly how bad Jim was when he was in the academy.
"Well he bumped into me, always gave me that grin that he does once asked me if I needed any help studying, told him I know what thats code for and I'm good without his help." Alex let out a huff of laughter. " not that he'd remember, i used to wear these fake glasses in the first two years to kinda take attention away from myself, and he never bothered me again after I turned him down."
"I was gunna place a bet on Jim trying to get in your pants. He was bad in the academy days, the amount of people always scurrying out of our apartment was ridiculous."
"I bet you had your fair share too, don't be mean."
"I didn't, I think something happened while I was black out drunk halfway through our third year but thats it and I remember nothing of that entire night, all Jim said he saw was the back of this woman as she was leaving before he fell back to sleep hanging off the sofa. And I've never been that drunk since that night. Awful not knowing what you did."
"Yea I know the feeling." Alex shivered uncomfortably. "Do I need to test your blood alcohol levels?" Alex raised a brow at Leonard with a hint of something in her eyes.
Leonard smirked leaning forward slightly, "Depends what you plan on doing with me sweetheart, now I won't pass out but I can't promise I'll be coordinated." His eyes dropped to her lips, watching as they curved up into a smile as he looked up and met her eyes again, the green orbs dancing with mischief.
"Aslong as you can get it up im sure we'll manage." Alex whispered, pulling away slowly with a cheeky yet suggestive smile as her lips met her glass.
"Like I've said before I'm older than you but im not that old, Witch." Leonard rumbled, shaking his head at her with a smirk. "So, my place or yours?" Leonard let his accent roll out thick as he quirked a brow at her finishing his drink as the woman laughed.
"Fuck you Mccoy, we've been out for an hour we aren't heading back yet." Alex slapped his leg playfully as she called the bartender over, hearing Leonard chuckling to himself by her side. "I know you're a whiskey and bourbon typa guy but I need to introduce you too alcohol that tastes like juice."
"It's not that cocktail that tastes like mint is it? Because I tried it once when Jim got me one and they're disgusting." Leonard pulled a face at the thought and put a hand to his throat seemingly stopping himself from gagging.
"Eww God no, mojitos are gross, mint is not a flavour that works in alcohol I agree with you there. No this one is honestly dangerous with how easy it goes down." Alex smiled at the waiter. "Two passion fruit martinis please."
"It doesn't sound like the worst drink but I'm suspicious of cocktails now after that mojito." Leonard frowned in suspicion as he watched the bartender start mixing the drinks. When the yellow drink was put in front of them with pineapple chunks on a skewer sitting in the infamous cocktail glass Leonard frowned again.
"Do you like pineapple? Cuz i don't." Alex asked picking up her skewer of fruit with a grossed out expression.
"You don't like pineapple? Give it here-" Leonard stole her skewer and promptly ate the pineapple piece off the end before frowning at the other fruit on the stick. "You like melon though right?" Leonard put the skewer back in her glass as she nodded. Picking up the glass precariously, he'd never had any luck with holding these awkward shaped glasses, taking a sip of the drink in question his eyes went wide as he looked up at the red head openly laughing at him. "This really is dangerous."
"I know, its not like they're super high percentage of alcohol either they're like 6% depending on how much vodka is in them but they're just too nice." Alex hummed taking a sip of her own drink.
"It all adds up though, hell if i'd known i could get drunk off fruit juice i'd have done this years ago." Leonard chuckled, pouring the drink into his empty whisky glass precariously, seeing the red head frowning at him in judgement. "Look i dont want to spill it, ive had run ins with these stupid glasses before, I'm a simple man."
"You got that right." Alex jibed earning her a sarcastic brow raise from Leonard.
"Your sleeping in the spare room tonight, witch."
"No, no i don't think I am." Alex made a face at Leonard while cocking her brow, a quiet challenge that all Leonard could do was shake his head at.
"I hate you." Leonard said looking at her fondly as she smiled cheekily at him.
"I know you do." She said leaning forward and planting feather light kiss on his lips. Feeling her padd vibrate in her pocket she jumped slightly pulling it out to see a message from Nyota. "Oh my God." Alex put a hand over her mouth in pleasant suprise and slight embarrassment.
Leonards face immediately turning into a concerned frown. "What, what is it?"
"So Nyota has just messaged me, saying because we left without a word she's had to resort to other means of getting a photo of us for the socials… she's asked the crew… if they had any photo or video evidence of us being 'disgustingly in love or pinning after eachother'... and told them to send it to her."
"She didn't." Bones didn't know whether to be mortified, grateful, worried, or thrilled. He was actually feeling all three at the same time if he was honest and it was nauseating.
"We gotta go back." Alex spoke in seriousness needing to know what sort of things Nyota had received from the crew.
"Im with you on that lets go, hold up." Leonard paused getting off his stool leaning over the bar waving the bartender down. "Can we get 2 more of these to go?"
"Make them double strength." Alex asked as she stood aswell making sure she had everything in her pockets that she'd brought out with her and swiping her card on the bar to pay for their drinks.
"You should have let me-"
"You can get the next one chief we got business to attend to." Alex spoke grabbing her take away cup and a straw then Leonards hand as they uncoordinatedly power walked out of the bar.
Leonard had his hand on the small of her back as they navigated through people obviously just beginning their nights out, Alex eventually grabbing his hand as the crowd got thicker.
Where the hell did all these people come from
I was just about to say the same thing
What time is it most proper clubs don't open till 11 ish
Its just gone 8, maybe they're just here for a couple of drinks like we were-
"Hey, you're Dr Mccoy from the enterprise right-" some random tall blonde haired man half shouted.
"Yea kid i don't have time to talk right n-"
The guy was now stood in front of them blocking their way with a less than sober appearance as he finally clocked on to Alex.
"And Dr Reid-"
"Wait Dr Reid?" There was a chorus of people that started turning around one after the other and noticing the red haired doctor and the southern doctor and they both knew they were in trouble when they were blinded by a white flash of light.
"Hey Leonard." Alex spoke, not making any sudden movements as she called for his attention.
"Yea?" Leonard could feel the tension in the air, the both of them coiled like a spring ready to snap under pressure. He had a feeling he knew what was coming and couldn't help but grin when he heard it.
"Run." Alex spoke simply, both of them lurching forward in unison, darting past the blonde haired man and through the thick groups of people as fast as there legs could carry them, hand in hand and laughing manicly as they heard the surge of activity behind them but a quick glance confirming none of them where keeping up, the flashes of cameras occasionally going off but the grins on their faces from the adrenaline never leaving, even as they finally got too the lobby of the hotel and stopped to catch their breaths. Laughing lightly together as they headed towards the lift.
Just so everyone knows my vision that is the adorable Doctor Harry and why he looks 'familiar' its because he's meant to look like Colin Firth.
That is all.