The doors to the engine room opened, and the captain stepped through them.
Before turning to greet him, Scotty switched off the hologram he was working on.
"Captain," he smiled, "what can I do for ya?"
"It's the other way around today, Scotty."
"How do ya mean?"
"I'm a little late, but I'm compiling Christmas lists," Kirk explained, "What… gifts did you have in mind?"
His hands settled fondly over the controls, as he gave his answer:
"I don't think I could be any happier than I am now, Captain. She's a good ship with a great crew."
Kirk gave a gentle, agreeing sort of nod.
"Then, something for all your hard work."
"Aye," he breathed, "I see what ya mean, Captain, but I think I've got all the tools I need, as well."
Kirk glanced at the panel which controlled the hologram. Scotty's tools and blueprints were scattered nearby.
"What are you working on right now?"
"Nothin' much, Sir," he reached to cover the schematics, "It was Mister Alexander's idea."
"His gift for the crew?" Kirk confirmed, to Scotty's reluctant nod, "He told me about it, last time I passed him in the hall."
"Surely he didn't give it away…?"
"Oh no; he didn't say what it was. Just that it would work in every crewman's cabin."
Proudly, Scotty grinned.
"He's a good lad. I said I'd finish it up for him, since he wasn't sure what to do."
"Is there anything that might make that easier?"
Scotty considered this, as the captain leaned against the nearest ladder. He listed several tools, which Kirk was not entirely familiar with, but promised to acquire during their stop at the starbase.
He then left the friendly room, with Scotty calling, "thank you, Sir!" after him.
The captain's thoughts were content, all through the evening. He returned to his cabin, and considered his crew to be the best gift of all.
Here is a hammer, and lots of tacks.
Also a ball, and a whip that cracks.