Disclaimer: Star Trek is not mine. It belongs to Gene Roddenberry and Paramount. NuTrek is JJ's baby.

A/N: Thanks to everyone that read, reviewed, followed, and favorited this story! I really appreciate the support. Mild Kirk/Khan in this chapter, so be prepared!

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Chapter 13: New Beginnings

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Kirk finally returned to the Captain's Quarters to find a stammering Cochrane waiting for him.

Cochrane timidly approached Kirk. He wasn't sure how to say what was on his mind, but he decided just to go for it. Thanks to the Vulcan, he wasn't about to go after any of the females on the ship. But he could do worse than Kirk. He did look rather fetching in his green uniform shirt and tight black pants.

"Jim. I believe I am attracted to you."

"You finally figured that out!" Kirk exclaimed. He raised his hand for a high five and Cochrane returned it. "That's awesome! I'm attracted to you as well."

"Really?" said Cochrane.

"Yeah," said Kirk with a grin. "Is that okay?"

"I am nervous," Cochrane admitted. "I have never been attracted to another man before. I find it rather shameful."

"Why?" Kirk asked, even though he already knew.

"Because I have never let anyone be in a position of power over me."

"I wouldn't think of it that way," said Kirk. "This is your first time being vulnerable to someone you see as your friend and equal."

"I guess," said Cochrane. "I still am not certain I would enjoy kissing a man."

"Well, I can help you with that," said Kirk with a wink. "If you want, that is. This would break a ton of regs, but I won't tell if you won't. Also, you need to know if you like guys and I am really good at making out – so I've been told."

"I suppose I could try," said Cochrane.

"Great!" said Kirk. "Are you ready?"

"What, now?" Cochrane blanched.

"You know if we don't do it now you will overthink it."

"Very well," said Cochrane. "Your logic is impeccable." He visibly tensed.

"Thanks?" said Kirk watching as the man started to sweat. "Cochrane, just relax. You trust me, right?"

"Yes, Jim."

Kirk put his arm on Cochrane's shoulder and moved in for the kiss. Their lips met in a chaste kiss. "I didn't feel anything," said Cochrane, disappointed.

"Wanna try again?" Kirk suggested.

"Yes," said Cochrane, sounding determined.

This time, their kiss lasted for a bit longer.

"Did you feel that?" Kirk asked.

"Yes," Khan admitted. "I am…"

Kirk grinned. "That's a good thing. Me too. I guess that means that you like guys!"

"Or maybe just you," said Cochrane.

Kirk chuckled. "Okay, let's set some boundaries. Only making out and cuddling tonight. I care about you, so we're gonna go slow."

"That is not necessary," Cochrane frowned. "I am not some virginal maid."

"You are with men," Kirk reminded him.

"That is true," Cochrane admitted. "Are you sure that men cuddle when they are involved?"

"I don't know about all men, but I find that it helps further a relationship in a way that is not entirely sexual," said Kirk. "Come on, Cochrane. It doesn't make you less manly. I promise."

"Good," Cochrane sighed. "I find that I am ready to try."

Kirk pulled him into a hug.

"This is nice," Cochrane sighed. He rested his head on Jim's shoulder.

"You do know that this is going to be over when we reach the Starbase, right?"

"Yes, of course," Khan said. "I am aware."

"Good," said Kirk, relieved. He hadn't forgotten that Cochrane was Khan in a past life. "Come here."

They both got under the covers and Kirk pulled Cochrane close. He gently kissed Khan's neck and Cochrane giggled. Kirk realized that they hadn't changed into pajamas but he found he didn't care.

They fell asleep snuggled up together and Cochrane had never felt safer.

End Chapter 13

A/N: Questions, comments, concerns? Let me know!