ten

It was easiest for Christine to write her parents that she was to be married, even though she would be marrying an extraterrestrial--or at least a half-extraterrestrial. They could not be called truly bigoted, but would have preferred that she marry a Human or Humanoid. However, they would accept virtually anyone as a son-in-law if it could be demonstrated that the man loved her and she was happy with him.

If only for that reason, she was sure they would accept Spock. Her mother had known she was in love with him from the beginning...as soon as Christine had realized it herself. Her father had been more skeptical, but in the end even he had come around, and it had helped her immensely to be able to unburden herself to them when she was unable to talk to Uhura. Both had advised her not to pressure him, be as professional as possible and not "wear her heart on her sleeve".

She had done her best to comply, but it took a lot out of her to pretend that she didn't care, to act professionally detached in a situation involving Spock. For Christine, it would have been easier to have an operation without anesthesia. It was easy for them to say those things...they weren't in her situation. She recalled what her mother had told her of how the courtship with her father had been, and her feelings upon realizing she was in love. Christine knew she was experiencing many of the same things her mother had.

But Ann Chapel had not had to deal with a Vulcan--someone who had emotions (very strong emotions), but denied them at every turn, rejecting any and all female companionship except
on a professional basis. Christine knew and figured out why after going over the results of the physical McCoy had given Spock shortly before the aborted wedding on Vulcan, but that didn't make it any easier to endure her feelings or Spock's treatment of her.

Still, Spock was not a cruel person; he was simply following what he had been taught from childhood. For that reason, among others, she couldn't blame him for keeping her at a distance. It wasn't until well into the Sapphiran mission that she found out how Spock truly felt toward her. After the mission, he could no longer pretend not to care. From that point on, they had been happy...with the exception of a few nights ago--and their estrangement had been her fault, not his.

It was Spock who brought her back to reality. They had returned briefly to their respective quarters to get their writing materials, then met in the Rec Room to write the stargrams to their parents, sitting in a booth near a large viewport. Scratch paper and Starfleet stationery lay before them and styli were in their right hands.

"Christine, how far are you?"

She looked up and smiled sheepishly. "No further than I was ten minutes ago, I'm afraid."

He frowned. "We do not have a lot of time, Christine. It is illogical to waste it." His tone was gently scolding.

"I know. I was just thinking."

"About what?" This time he looked up after writing something.

"About all we've had to endure to get this far."

He raised an eyebrow and frowned again; she smiled and covered his free hand with her own after laying down her stylus. "Yes, I know, Spock. We've got to get the stargrams written. Don't worry; we will."

She withdrew her hand after answering his unspoken statement, picked up the stylus again and began writing with a vengeance. Their contact, both physical and mental, had enabled her to formulate what she'd wanted to say to her parents. She hoped Spock would be able to write now, too--and after a moment of sitting and frowning thoughtfully, the Vulcan smiled slightly and began to write again.

All was silence for the next half hour or so as the two sat and wrote, not speaking for fear of disturbing their trains of thought. They called up drinks and sandwiches upon completing the stargrams on scratch paper, going over the first drafts of the stargrams as they refreshed themselves, changing, adding or omitting as they saw fit before copying them onto the Starfleet stationery.

Christine finished hers first. She looked up and gave Spock a triumphant smile as she folded up the stationery, then sealed and addressed the stargram in a special blue-green postpaid envelope which characterized all mail going to Earth. Her parents had moved back there after Christopher Chapel's retirement from diplomatic service. He was now a "gentleman farmer" on a plot of land which they had purchased in the Ohio countryside, near her birthplace of Cleveland.

At his request, after noting that the envelope for Vulcan-bound stargrams was a pale green, she read the stargram to her parents out loud.

Stardate 7419.3

Dear Mama and Daddy--

I'm very happy to be able to report that I am to be married in a couple of days...and to Spock, the one I've told you about. It hasn't been easy, but I took your advice, and it worked. He proposed to me a week ago.

I wish you could be here for my wedding, but I'll try to get a holovid of it for you. The Captain will be marrying us, Nyota will be Maid of Honor and Dr. McCoy will be attending Spock as well as giving me away.

Spock and I had a quarrel not too long ago, but after a rough few days, we made up (mainly because of our friends' intervention) and are closer than ever. I will tell you about that and the wedding next time. Take care and let me know all your news.

Much Love,
Christine

Spock nodded in approval when she finished, then said, "I am finished, Christine."

"Good," she smiled. "May I hear it?"

He hesitated, but began to read.

Stardate 7419.3

Mother--

I am sorry that this is such short notice, but I believe you should be informed of my upcoming marriage. I proposed to Christine a week ago, and we will marry within 48 hours in a Federation ceremony. Jim will marry us, the Doctor will be attending me, and Miss Uhura will attend Christine. Dr. McCoy will also act as surrogate father to Christine, since her parents will be unable to come and "give her away".

I know that this will be enough for Christine, but I will not feel complete unless we can also have a Vulcan wedding. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that T'Pau will be willing to perform the ceremony. I can only hope that she will honor tradition and grant me my right to be properly married in the eyes of my people. Perhaps it would be possible for my father to intercede with her on our behalf. I will await your reply.

I am hopeful of, but not optimistic about, a positive outcome. If it does not come about as I wish, it will be a disappointment, but no surprise. In that event, I must live with it as best I can. In the meantime, I hope all is well with you and my father, and that you will inform me of any news which you believe will be of interest to me. I will tell you more when I have more information.

With every affection...
Your son,
Spock

Christine reacted to it as he had to hers. After a time, she stood up and stretched. "I'd better go mail this now. Would you like me to drop yours off too while I'm at it?"

Spock gave her a half-smile. "Your offer is appreciated, Christine, but I must purchase more postpaid envelopes, so I will take it myself."

"All right, if you say so. I'd better go now before the mailroom closes--then go to bed. We've got some busy days coming up." She then reached to cross fingers with him, then leaned down to brush his lips with hers in a brief kiss before leaving.

"I'll see you later, Spock."

"Good night, Christine."

The Vulcan allowed himself a smile in his bondmate's direction, then she stepped out. Spock told himself to go to the mailroom before going on duty the following morning. It opened at 0500 and closed at 1900 hours every day (though it had both a 24-hour mail computer and a regular slot), in keeping with the Federation "post offices" on the various member planets and starbases.

Within half an hour, Christine had returned to her quarters and showered, then changed into a silky shortie nightgown trimmed with delicate lace and climbed into bed, soon falling asleep with her arms around her pillow.

The next couple of days were so hectic that the parties concerned could recall only a blur later on. For the present, however, they were all too occupied with wedding preparations to think beyond them. Uhura and Christine spent their off-duty time working on their dresses and planning their hairstyles. Christine planned to wear a Vulcan hairstyle, if only to please Spock, and hopefully make him feel better in the event they were unable to have a Vulcan wedding. It wouldn't replace it, of course, but she hoped he would appreciate the gesture.

She was sure he would understand her wearing the traditional bridal gown (she had recently learned that she wasn't pregnant after all; her late period had been caused by emotional stress), since this was a once-in-a-lifetime thing, and he would be unable to deny her anything that would make her happy, now that they were together.

As for Spock, the Vulcan and his two Human friends also spent many off-duty hours together, discussing what the Doctor's duties would be as "best man" and what Spock was supposed to do at a Federation wedding. Spock chose one of his most elaborate ceremonial robes to be married in--a thigh-length, royal blue affair with full sleeves, silver trim and intricate lettering, black pants and the long-sleeved, silver-grey shirt he usually wore under his uniform... and to top it off, black knee-high boots.

After that, the Captain and Spock held a man-to-man talk about what he could do to please his new wife. Not that he needed much instruction, but the Vulcan wasn't about to deny his friend the opportunity to "give him pointers". A lot of what Jim said had made the Vulcan blush, but at the same time, he made a mental note to try all that Kirk had suggested. Not all at once, of course, but over time. Spock had not had much experience in expressing emotions, and most of that had either been with Kirk or Christine.

The Vulcan was too embarrassed to research it on his own, and couldn't help wondering if she would note his increased knowledge. But one thing Spock was sure of was that she would say that there was no need to improve on what they had--and with a part of him, he couldn't blame her. How could one improve on virtual perfection? Perhaps he could say that he wished to make sure it stayed that way.

If only for her own sake, he hoped that Christine was able to sleep on this, the night before their wedding. Spock doubted he would be able to. He had too much on his mind...like what the future would hold for them. Another thing the Vulcan was wondering was, could he be an effective husband to a Human woman?

As far as he could tell, his Human mother had not found his father lacking in any way...and as illogical as it was, Spock found himself cautiously optimistic that Christine would have the same opinion of him. It would be a long time before he got used to being married. His speculation and concern over how he would fare as a married man would keep him awake the rest of the night.

eleven

Spock had laid out his wedding finery before dressing to go on his duty shift, certain it would occupy him sufficiently so he would not have to concern himself with being a "bundle of nerves," as Jim would say. At least not until it came time to prepare for the ceremony, which would only be five and a half hours away once he and Jim were off-duty. Christine and the Doctor would be off-duty at 1500 and Uhura at 1600.

The First Officer liked to think that Jim would come by and they could have a final talk while helping him dress, but it was equally likely that the Doctor would come with the Captain. In that event, they would need to keep the talk casual...or as casual as Spock could make it. Once some time had passed, perhaps they could talk about his married life.

Meanwhile, he had to get through tomorrow--through his duty shift, the dressing and other wedding preparations, as well as the wedding itself (he had promised to kiss Christine after Jim pronounced them husband and wife)...and the beginning of their lives as a married couple. If the last two days were any indication of the emotions he would feel, Spock would need all his control and discipline to pull it off without embarrassing himself in front of Christine or their friends.

It was hard to say who found it the most difficult getting through their duty shifts, but with a mixture of professionalism and discipline, all managed. Upon going off-duty and returning to her quarters, Christine put the finishing touches on her dress, also making sure she had all the necessary accoutrements for the Vulcan hairstyle. Uhura was a talented hairstylist; it shouldn't be too difficult for her.

The headband would be carefully pinned into place, consisting of a small tiara-like affair with two small combs attached, silk roses, pearls, and a chapel-length veil. The scalloped-lace collar of the dress complemented the fitted bodice and equally fitted sleeves with lacy cuffs, which fell over Christine's slender hands. The rest of the dress was off-white silk, falling gracefully to her feet, flaring out enough so that she could walk gracefully.

There would be a blue garter on her right leg just above the knee, and she would wear off-white ballet pumps. She would also wear the perfume she had received as a gift from Amanda, a combination of Terran rose and Vulcan t'lerya flower scents. The sound of the buzzer brought the female Doctor back to reality, and she knew who it was after looking at the chrono beside her bed.

"Come on in, Nyota."

The Communications Officer stepped in, arms full of her own finery. "Be with you in a minute, Chris," she called back after stepping in and placing the items she carried on the nearby table. "Ready for me to do your hair?" the dark woman asked as she stepped into her friend's sleeping alcove to find the other woman seated at the vanity mirror next to her bed, clad in just her undergarments, a waist-length dark brown wig covering her own shoulder-length hair. The dress hung on the bathroom door, the shoes on the floor beneath it. The headband with attached veil sat nearby on the vanity table. Uhura's nose wrinkled in appreciation upon smelling the perfume. "Mmmm. Lovely perfume, Chris. What is it?"

The Doctor handed her friend a comb and turned to face the mirror again before answering. "A Vulcan perfume which is a combination of Terran rose and t'lerya scent. Amanda sent it to me as an engagement gift. It's called Ainama Ratahll, 'Beautiful Flowers'. If it doesn't bowl Spock over, nothing will!"

Uhura's eyes widened. "T'lerya? That's a Vulcan flower."

"Yes," came the answer. "It has a smell like honeysuckle."

"Spock should love it," Uhura opined.

"I hope so, especially since I intend to surprise him with it."

The computerized book on Vulcan hairstyles was on the small view screen at Christine's bedside, the former positioned so Uhura could refer to it as the women prepared for the upcoming wedding.

"How long do you think it'll take to finish the hairstyle?" Christine asked.

"Depends on what kind of luck I have in duplicating it," the dark woman replied. "Now if you'd kindly hand me that ponytail band..."

With that, the hairstyling began in earnest, and the main thing Christine did (other than tell the computer to move to the next page as it became necessary) was to hand Uhura the hair ornaments and such as they were needed. It was almost two hours before the Bantu finished her work, then showed her friend what it looked like. Christine smiled in approval.

"It's beautiful. Almost a shame to cover it."

Uhura nodded in agreement, then said, "Which reminds me. You'd better get into your dress, then you can fix your makeup while I get dressed. We'll put the headband and veil on last thing."

It took nearly half an hour for Christine to be fully attired, even with Uhura's help, but in the end, the female Doctor was a vision of loveliness--and the radiant happiness which shone in her blue eyes and on her face made her even more beautiful. Uhura then retrieved her own finery and got ready herself as Christine applied her makeup, both of which took another hour. By the time they finished, there was less than an hour until the wedding.

"Well, I'd better see how the guys are coming along. See you later, Chris."

The dark woman departed, her cap-sleeved, scoop-necked, old rose-colored dress with its fitted bodice and lace over silk (she had had her mother send it and the matching shoes from home; the last time she'd worn it was at her older brother's wedding shortly before she had joined Starfleet) swirling about her. Small gold-and-diamond earrings were in her pierced ears and a delicate gold chain with a small heart-shaped diamond was around her long, graceful neck.

Christine sat down carefully at the vanity again, fighting back nervousness and not succeeding. She had done her best to please Spock; all that remained now was his reaction.

The three men were gathered in Spock's quarters. The Vulcan was putting the finishing touches on himself as Kirk and McCoy waited in the living area, both men attired in their dress uniforms. "Never thought it would take this long for Spock to get ready, Jim," the Doctor remarked to the Captain. "I thought only a woman could primp so much!"

"This is a special day, Bones. We'd probably primp just as much if it were one of us getting married," Kirk chided. In the next moment, the buzzer sounded.

Spock was at his bathroom mirror, still adjusting the fastenings on his ceremonial robe. "Jim, could you please answer that for me?"

Kirk had already stood up and turned toward the door. "Of course, Spock."

The Captain opened the door to find Uhura standing there, smiling appreciatively at the sight of her. "Hey, don't you look nice!"

"Thank you," she smiled. "How are you all coming along?"

"Bones and I are ready, and Spock should be in a few minutes. How about Christine?"

"Waiting in her quarters," came the reply. "Which reminds me, I'd better get back to her. See you in a little while." She nodded and smiled in the men's direction, then departed.

A short time later, Spock joined the Captain and McCoy. The Vulcan could scarcely fathom that the day was finally here, that he would soon marry the woman he loved--a day he had hardly dared even think might happen to him, he had spent so much of his life alone. But that was all behind him now. He would never be alone again. He would have a wife who loved him as he had always dreamed, and eventually a child. He could only hope that he would prove worthy of Christine and her love and be a good father to their child when the time came, not making the mistakes with him or her as his own father had made with him.

"Ready, Spock?" Kirk asked with a reassuring smile as his Vulcan friend moved with him to the door, McCoy following in their wake.

"As ready as I will ever be," came the quiet reply.

"In that case, we'd better get going. The girls are waiting for us."

The three then left the Vulcan's quarters and headed for a turbolift which would take them to the ship's Chapel on Deck 7.

The aforementioned couple were nowhere in sight when the other three arrived, but McCoy knew where they must be and excused himself to go join them. Spock and Kirk took their designated places at the flower-decorated altar and waited. Fifteen minutes later, the traditional music began and Uhura appeared, carrying a bouquet of red roses which matched the ones in her hair.

She was followed by McCoy with Christine, her left hand resting lightly on the Doctor's right arm. Her other hand carried a bouquet of white roses and baby's-breath with pink ribbons dangling from it. Spock's heart rate accelerated as she approached. How could anyone so lovely and loving truly be his? Not long afterward, the Doctor relinquished her to Spock, standing on the Vulcan's right side as Uhura stood on Christine's left. The First Officer and his bride held hands as they faced Kirk.

"Since the days of the first wooden vessels, all ship's masters have had one happy privilege--that of joining two people in the bonds of matrimony. It is an even happier time when at least one is a close friend. And so we are here today in order that you, Spock, and you, Christine, may pledge your love to one another in accordance with our laws and many beliefs."

As Kirk spoke, the couple looked at each other; unspoken love flowed between them.

You are lovely, Christine, Spock told her.

As is your perfume.

Thank you, beloved. I hoped you'd like it.

Very much, m'chejan, he assured her. And I noted your Vulcan hairstyle as well. It is most becoming.

She lowered her eyes and blushed attractively at his compliment before Kirk's voice brought them back to reality.

"Do you, Spock, take Christine as your lawfully wedded wife from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health--to love, honor and cherish until death do you part?"

The Vulcan looked at his bride, allowing himself a smile in her direction. "I do."

The Captain then addressed Christine. "Do you, Christine, take Spock as your lawfully wedded husband from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health--to love, honor and cherish until death do you part?"

"I do." She smiled at her bridegroom and squeezed his hand.

"The rings, please."

McCoy and Uhura produced them; the Doctor gave Spock the one for Christine. The Vulcan released her hand, then looked at Kirk for instructions as to what to do next.

"Spock, take this ring and put it on her finger, then repeat after me...'With this ring, I thee wed--and hereby accept you, Christine, as my wife, for now and forever'."

It was hard for the Vulcan's suddenly trembling fingers to manage the almost impossibly small gold band with a stylized IDIC symbol (the rings had been custom-made on Vulcan, then the order sent to the Enterprise by Amanda), but he finally managed to slip it onto her left ring finger and recite the aforementioned statement. A moment later, Uhura handed a larger but otherwise identical ring to Christine.

Kirk told her, "Repeat after me-- 'With this ring, I thee wed...and hereby accept you, Spock, as my husband--for now and forever'."

This time, Christine looked at her own closest friend for strength before putting the ring on her bridegroom's outstretched left hand. The couple turned back to the Captain.

"I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride, Spock."

The Vulcan was too happy to care what anyone thought of his subsequent actions. Even McCoy was too stunned to react for some time. The couple came up for air thirty seconds later, eyes bright and faces flushed. Christine had no idea Spock was capable of such a thing in public, but decided she wouldn't let it bother her if it didn't bother him.

"There wasn't enough time to plan a reception or get wedding presents, so what do you say to having one as soon as we can arrange it?" Kirk asked.

"That would seem to be the most logical course of action, Jim. Do you not agree, my wife?" Spock reached to cross fingers with his new wife, again allowing himself a smile in her direction.

Christine returned it and nodded, grateful for the additional time to choose a gift for Spock...and for Nyota and McCoy for attending her.

"What do you intend to do now, Spock?" the Captain wondered.

"I believe we shall have dinner, then retire," was the reply. Spock felt his wife's silent agreement. "After we have changed clothes."

The five shared a pleasant dinner together, the newlyweds exchanging either a mental conversation, a squeezing of hands or crossing of fingers in between speaking and eating with their friends. There was even a toast during the dinner, which both pleased and embarrassed them. It was nearly 2200 when the friends bade each other good-night.

Once behind the doors of "their" quarters, the newly married couple went into each other's arms for a lingering kiss. Upon reluctantly separating, both undressed in silence...then moved into each other's arms again upon getting into bed. Christine enjoyed feeling her husband's fingers, lips and face in her hair after the wig was removed--and his warm breath. Their kissing and touching was tentative at first, but after a time it deepened and became intimate.

After that, only sounds of movement and sweet nonsense were heard in the warm darkness of the "honeymoon suite" as the couple made love for the first time as husband and wife. Finally, only soft breathing came from the intricately entwined bodies of the married lovers as they slept deeply and contentedly in each other's arms until ship's morning.

twelve

Christine awoke to warm lips brushing across her eyelids. She opened her eyes to gaze upon the exotically handsome and most beloved face of her Vulcan husband, smiling as their eyes met.

"Good morning, my love."

"Good morning, my wife. I trust you slept well."

It was hard to believe this was real, that they were actually married. It seemed more like a beautiful dream Christine was having, but one from which she never wanted to awaken if it meant that she could love Spock as she had always wanted to--and he loved her. He hadn't said it in words for some time, but words weren't always necessary. She felt it through their bond and that was sufficient...at least for now.

"Very well, thank you--but then, I always did whenever you were beside me."

His cheeks took on a faint greenish tinge, but Christine simply smiled and kissed his nose.
"Do you have duty today?"

His color deepened slightly, but his voice betrayed nothing. "No. Do you?"

"No...but even if I did, I'd call in sick or something. The last thing I want to do right now is get up and leave you."

"We will have to eventually," he reminded her.

"I know, but I'll worry about that when the time comes." Her tone was such that even Spock didn't question her. "For the moment, all I want to do is enjoy our honeymoon and being alone with you."

Their eyes met again and his fingers touched her cheek, unspoken love flowing between them. A moment later, she was both pleased and surprised that he had kissed her without her asking him to.

"Mmmm. Very nice. What brought that on?"

The Vulcan looked almost indignant. "Do I need a reason to kiss my wife?"

"Oh no, of course not. I was just surprised. You don't usually kiss me unless I ask you." She stroked his lips with a finger. "What if we wanted more than a kiss?"

"It would have to wait until we were back here in our quarters," was the matter-of-fact reply.

"We're here now," she reminded him.

An upswept eyebrow rose. "My wife, are you trying to seduce me? If so, I must remind you that Vulcans cannot be seduced."

His wife stroked his lips. "As the good Doctor would say, 'In a pig's eye.' Now what's your answer?"

Spock said not a word, simply drew his wife close and kissed her again. Not even pregnancy--when it happened--would prevent their sharing physical as well as emotional closeness. She would not allow it. Christine also intended to discuss the possibility of a Vulcan wedding at some point. It was still too early to hear anything from his parents on that score, but she knew it concerned Spock greatly.

She could understand his wish for a Vulcan wedding, because after having lived in the Vulcan way for so long, he would not feel they were truly married unless they went through the koon-ut-kal-if-fee ceremony. But in the meantime, all she was concerned with was her husband's nearness.

It was 1230 hours when they arose and showered, then dressed and left their quarters for the Officers' Lounge. The most they did in public was cross fingers or hold hands. Anything more than the aforementioned actions would remain in the privacy of their quarters. Spock had to have time to get used to the Human ways of showing affection and Christine intended to give him that time...and any help he might need. This was when the turbolift doors opened and he released her hand to cross fingers with her again as they walked through the ship's corridors. Upon reaching the Lounge, they called up their meals and looked for a place to sit.

"Over here, Spock, Chris!"

They turned to see McCoy waving at them from a table where he was seated with Kirk and Uhura. The newlyweds looked at each other, and Christine sensed that her husband was uncomfortable with the idea of having to endure the Chief Surgeon's penetrating eyes and pointed questions. Don't worry, love. I'll handle him, she assured Spock through their bond.

The First Officer allowed himself a smile in his wife's direction, then composed himself as they approached the table where their three shipmates and friends sat. Spock told himself to concentrate on his wife and Kirk as much as possible, even though he knew that McCoy cared about him and meant well...but Jim was gentler and more subtle about "drawing him out," which was one reason the Vulcan was more comfortable with him. Whatever the Doctor's faults, however, he had long ago proven himself a friend, so his teasing was simply one of the idiosyncrasies that Spock had learned to live with.

"Well, hello, newlyweds," McCoy said with a grin. "I didn't think we were going to see you two out and about this soon."

"There's such a thing as being hungry, Leonard--even for newlyweds. You know that," Christine rejoined coolly before taking a bite of her Denver omelet and washing it down with orange juice.

This effectively silenced McCoy, but he didn't look pleased at his assistant having put him in his place so cleverly. He was particularly indignant at her having denied him the chance to bait Spock. But as much as Christine cared about McCoy, Spock was her husband, the most important thing in her life; she wasn't about to allow even Leonard to embarrass him.

"How's marriage so far, Spock?" Kirk asked as he prepared to eat his breakfast of cinnamon-apple pancakes, scrambled eggs and sausage. Strong coffee was his beverage of choice.

"Most satisfactory, Jim," came the quiet reply as the Science Officer prepared to eat his own breakfast. The Vulcan did not elaborate, but knowing his alien friend as he did, Kirk didn't expect him to.

As for Uhura, she had planned to ask Christine the same question, but decided to hold off until they could speak privately. The other woman's radiant face spoke volumes to her closest friend. She had the same look about her as when they had discussed the private times with Spock during the Sapphiran mission, so it seemed that Chris considered the Vulcan well worth the years she had waited for him...but Uhura couldn't be sure until they had actually talked about it. Consequently, she simply remained quiet and observed.

"Have you learned of any further abuse on Sapphira VII, Jim?" the Vulcan asked, all business again.

"Rumors only. Nothing verifiable," was the reply.

"Do you think we will have to return there and 'take matters into our own hands,' so to speak, in order to straighten out the situation?"

Kirk sighed and frowned. "My gut feeling tells me we should, Spock, but until and if we get official orders, the Prime Directive specifically prohibits our taking any action."

The First Officer frowned at the thought, frankly dreading the prospect of any more men suffering as the one Pietro had told him about had. He could only hope that the rumors were just that--rumors--
and that Pietro would never be subjected to such abuse. So far, he hadn't been (at least, as far as Spock knew), but Sapphira was the kind who would think nothing of making an example of any man she thought might have defied her in any way.

Spock had just been lucky, as Humans would put it, that he had been able to defy Sapphira and live to tell about it...and most importantly, come out of the situation in one piece. If it hadn't been for Christine's intervention, he didn't know what he'd have done.

Christine felt his distress before he had the chance to put up mental shields, projecting a soothing balm of reassuring love. Such a thing would never happen to him if she had the power to stop it. Nor would any more men suffer at Sapphira's hands because of her selfish, sadistic ways if the Federation could prevent it.

Thank you, my wife, he thought, with a mixture of embarrassment and gratitude.

Any time, my husband, she smiled through their link. Now, let's finish breakfast before it congeals.

A short time later, the five finished eating; three went back on duty and the other two back to their quarters. They would not return to duty until the following morning, during which they would reach their next assignment.

Several days later, Christine heard back from her parents. They were thrilled to learn that she had married the one she loved. She had every intention of telling Spock, even though it was likely to prompt him to speculate on why he hadn't heard from his own parents. She had no more idea why than he did, but for his sake, hoped that when they did answer, the news would be good. Perhaps Sarek was negotiating with T'Pau on their behalf even now.

Christine got off-duty shortly before her husband did, taking a shower and putting on a soft, floral print caftan. She left her hair down after combing it, wearing the rose and t'lerya perfume, but left her feet bare. She then put on some instrumental music and lay back on the bed, re-reading the stargram from her parents. Half an hour later, she heard the door open and her husband's voice.

"Christine? Where are you, m'chejan?"

"In here, Spock," she called from the bedroom.

He joined her a moment later, leaning down to brush her lips in a kiss of greeting after crossing fingers with her. His sharp eyes noted the paper in her right hand and asked what it was.

"I heard from my parents," she told him. "They're thrilled that we've gotten married."

Spock allowed himself a half-smile at the news, pleased to hear it but as his wife had surmised, more concerned with why he hadn't heard from his own parents by now.

"Perhaps it's taking longer to negotiate with T'Pau than Sarek expected," Christine suggested, answering his question before he voiced it.

"Provided he was willing to make the attempt...and that T'Pau was willing to negotiate," came the dubious reply.

"We must think positive, beloved," she gently insisted.

"Believe me, my wife, I am attempting to do so, but if you knew my father and T'Pau--" The Vulcan broke off, still sounding uncertain.

"I may not know them, but if your father is anything like you, he's as stubborn as the proverbial mule. I'll truly be surprised if he doesn't convince T'Pau to marry us. If I were the betting type, my credits would be on Sarek to be the irresistible force to T'Pau's immovable object."

"I truly...hope your confidence is justified," Spock conceded.

"It will be. Trust me."

"I trust you, Christine. It is my father and T'Pau whom I am--unsure of."

When her husband sat down beside her, Christine set down the stargram and opened her arms. Spock hesitated only a moment before moving into them. She held his head close and stroked his silky dark hair as he tentatively slid his arms around her.

"It doesn't make any difference to me whether or not we have a Vulcan wedding, especially if T'Pau is so xenophobic that she can't stand the thought of another Vulcan/Terran marriage. However, I know how much it would mean to you to be married in the eyes of 'your people,' as you call them...so for your sake, I hope everything works out. But even if it doesn't, we're still legally married. That's what matters. We're together, and any child we have will be legitimate. Don't you agree?"

The Vulcan had been silent in his wife's arms until now, simply savoring her closeness and perfume. He had no interest in talking at the moment, but knew he had to say something.

"For the most part--yes, but it is...premature to discuss our marriage in too much detail. There is time enough to make judgments at a later date. Let us refrain from further discussion now. I wish only to rest."

But Spock made no move to get up and undress. In fact, Christine was both surprised and pleased to discover that her husband had put himself into a sleep-trance. His head was heavy on her breast, his arms gentle but strong and secure around her, and his breath warm on her skin. She carefully maneuvered them so that they were lying down, simply holding Spock as he slept, even though each of them were still fully dressed and lying on top of the bedcovers. He must have been exhausted, to do such a thing. It didn't happen often, but when it did he really needed the rest, and her medical instinct told her not to disturb him.

It was in this manner that the couple slept the rest of the night.

It was another week before Spock heard back from his parents (or more accurately, his mother) regarding the Vulcan wedding. Upon receipt of the stargram, he dreaded opening it because he was sure it contained bad news. It was Christine who finally convinced him to open it.

Stardate 7423.7

Spock--

I am pleased to announce that I managed to talk your father into putting his differences with you aside (temporarily, at least) so you could be properly married. Even at that, he was dubious as to the likelihood of T'Pau agreeing to a second Vulcan/Terran marriage in the same family. But I think the fact that the two of you are bonded and already married via the Federation ceremony helped to sway her, if only a little.

The fact that you wish to be properly married in accordance with Vulcan custom was also a major factor in her decision to officiate, however reluctant. It's hard to turn down someone who wants to honor tradition, and you know what a traditionalist she is.

I also liked the fact that Sarek pointed out to her that if you didn't honor Vulcan tradition, it would be her fault for refusing to marry you and Christine...that it was wrong to circumvent Vulcan law to suit herself, in an attempt to justify her xenophobia. If that isn't illogical, nothing is.

However, the news isn't all good. Nothing your father could say would budge her regarding having any more Humans at the koon-ut-kal-if-fee ceremony other than Christine and Captain Kirk. That means that neither I nor Dr. McCoy may attend--nor can her friend, Uhura. Please accept our profound regrets at having been unable to do better, my son, but at least you will be able to marry in a Vulcan ceremony as you wished, even if you can only have one friend there to witness it.

That was probably only because Sarek reminded her that it was your right by law to have at least one friend stand with you at the wedding, but what matters is that she has granted it. However, nothing's going to stop me from giving you two a wedding reception. Do you think the Captain would be willing to host it with me? I have a lovely present I want to give you. It may be illogical, but humor your emotional Human mother, okay? When one only has one child, they tend to 'smother' the child with attention, even 'spoil' them...especially a child such as you, even when the child is grown.

I am thankful you turned out so well, in spite of your disastrous first bonding and overly strict upbringing. Please discuss my question with the Captain and let me know what you decide. Your father also said to tell you that the Vulcan ceremony can be performed as soon as you arrive, but that T'Pau is reluctant as it is, so please don't make her wait any longer than absolutely necessary.

We will see you as soon as you can get here, my son, and are looking forward to meeting our new daughter-in-law. Until then, I am always...

Your Loving Mother

Spock looked up at his anxious wife, relieved and disappointed at the same time.

"Well, what did she say? Don't keep me in suspense!"

"Patience, my wife," he gently admonished. "I will tell you soon enough."

Christine frowned at him; the Vulcan sighed and began.

"Very well, if you insist. Mother said that she managed to convince my father to speak to T'Pau on our behalf. He was dubious as to whether or not he would be able to 'talk her around,' as it were, but I am pleased to report that he did. T'Pau was reluctant, but agreed to marry us at our earliest convenience. However, Mother suggests that we not make her wait any longer than we have to.

"Also, we will only be able to have one friend stand with us--Captain Kirk. Mother sends her regrets to us both that they were unable to convince T'Pau to allow the Doctor, Mother, or Miss Uhura to come. We must be grateful that we will be allowed to marry in the eyes of my people, and that Jim will be there."

"Oh, I am...if only for your sake. I know how much this means to you. I'm big enough to swallow my disappointment, and am sure Leonard and Nyota will understand. As you once said, they couldn't be our friends and not understand."

Spock allowed himself a smile in her direction. "Thank you, my wife."

"Anything else?" Christine asked as she returned his smile.

"She also mentioned wanting to co-host a wedding reception with Jim because she had a present for us, and suggested that our friends present their gifts to us at that time. Do you think they will be willing to do so?"

"Oh, I think so, if only to please us. Do you know if they have the presents yet?"

"I believe they all have something picked out, but have not yet had the opportunity to purchase the gifts they have in mind."

"How long will it take to get to Vulcan from where we are now?"

"Five point-two-eight days at warp six," was the answer.

"When do you plan to tell the others?" she wondered.

"I will leave the telling of the Doctor and Miss Uhura to you. I will tell Jim what Mother said and we will act accordingly. However, I must answer her immediately--this evening--and transmit it in order for it to reach Vulcan in time to let my parents know that we are coming..." His voice trailed off. tab

"Provided no contrary orders come in," Christine finished.

Spock raised an eyebrow at his wife, still not used to having someone besides Jim aware of his thoughts and feelings. He was used to the Captain knowing because of their long-standing fraternal bond; a matrimonial bond was something else again.

"Do you think anything will come up between now and then?" she asked.

"It is entirely possible," Spock admitted. "Especially considering Sapphira's propensity for sadism and tyranny."

"So much for a supposedly peace-loving people," Christine opined dryly. "You know what she's likely to do if she sees either of us again, so I hope we won't have to make good on our threat."

"As do I," came the reply. "But we must be prepared for the worst, even as we hope for the best."

Christine smiled and crossed fingers with her husband. "I will tell Jim about Mother's stargram tomorrow, once we are off-shift. For the present, let us change for bed and retire."

Within an hour the couple was in bed, finding it much easier to compose themselves for sleep now that they knew they would be able to have the Vulcan wedding after all. They shared a good-night kiss and fell asleep in each other's arms a short time later.

Sareenah couldn't take it any longer. In fact, she was ready to climb the wall. Whatever the consequences, she had to have Pietro. The last three months had seemed like three centuries! That was how long the pair had been secretly meeting, their rendezvous reminiscent of an undercover spy mission. But the cloak-and-dagger secrecy had been worth it despite the danger of Sapphira finding out. The last time they had been together, the couple had thrown caution to the winds and made love.

The encounter had been every bit as heavenly as each could have imagined, standing in stark contrast to Pietro's increasingly meaningless joinings with Sapphira. After experiencing true love, the joy and ecstasy he had found in Sareenah's arms, Sapphira not only left him cold, but literally sickened him. Sareenah lacked Christine's height but was virtually identical to her in personality, as well as angelically beautiful.

Only an hour now until their plan to run away together would be put into operation. With luck, Sapphira wouldn't find out until after they were too far away to catch...particularly if their departure were timed for after she had fallen asleep for the night. This was one time her habit of sleeping deeply would work to their advantage. Once out of the First Province, they planned to travel to the Twelfth, where Sareenah's family lived. They would stay with them until both felt it safe to openly declare their love and get married.

She had confided her plans to Setara; her friend had tried to talk her out of it, but without success. All Setara could do was wish them luck; they would need all they could get. A miracle wouldn't hurt, either.

"You know what will happen if Sapphira finds out and catches up with you," Setara warned. "She could have you both killed--or worse, tortured."

"Wouldn't you do the same thing if it meant being with Henri?" Sareenah countered.

That effectively silenced Setara, at least momentarily, but did not lessen her worry for her friend's life, freedom or safety...as well as that of the man the latter loved. Setara could hardly stand the thought of what would happen to them if their plan was uncovered. Particularly if her knowledge of the plot (or her work in the CRSD) came to light.

In that event, her own fate was likely to be the same as that of the hapless lovers. Or maybe Sapphira would devise a special torture for her, one which would make her and Henri wish that Sapphira would simply kill her and be done with it. But for the moment, Setara pushed her fears aside and wished Sareenah the best.

"Thanks, Setti. I'll contact you when it's safe," the latter promised, calling her friend by the nickname only she could get away with calling her, after the two shared a parting embrace and the other woman prepared to depart and meet Pietro to carry out their plan.

"Wait," Setara called.

Sareenah turned back to face her.

"We have another CRSD meeting tonight. You and Pietro are two of the top officers. What am I going to say when you don't show up?"

Sareenah smiled. "You'll think of something, Setti. We have every confidence in you."

Setara's heart ached at the sweetness of the smile. If Sapphira learned of their plans, she might never see that smile, or Sareenah alive, again. But Sareenah and Pietro were counting on her to cover for them, so she would have to do her best. She had never been good at subterfuge; she could only hope that she would be able to pull it off. One thing she was certain of was that the couple would never be completely safe. They would likely be on the run for the rest of their lives, even if they did manage to get out of the First Province.

Unfortunately, there was no talking to Sareenah when her mind was made up. All Setara could do was pray that things would work out for Sareenah and Pietro (and herself) to escape Sapphira's clutches--not to mention her wrath--and start a new life ...but Setara had a terrible feeling that disaster was about to descend on them all.