"We're right on schedule, Sir," Sulu said, as the captain stood behind him, "Estimated to arrive on Aristotle IX within twenty-four hours."
"Very good, Mister Sulu," he replied, adjusting the collar of his dress uniform, "Take your time."
"Aye, Sir. Enabling autopilot now."
Aside from Kirk and Sulu, the Bridge was unoccupied. By now, the artificial snow had 'melted', leaving shreds of paper in hastily-swept piles around the controls.
In the largest of the recreation rooms, Kirk had organized a gathering, as he knew the families on Earth did for such occasions. Uhura, Rand, and Chapel promised surprises earlier in the day, as they directed each crew member to the uniform room.
Sulu and Kirk arrived, retrieving their stockings on the way. Most of the wall was cleared, as the others were already in attendance.
"Merry Christmas, Captain!" most said, as they entered. Sulu echoed this to him quietly, before leaving to find friends in the crowd.
First, Kirk sought out Lieutenant Uhura, to thank her for the additions to his uniform. She promised to pass the kind words on to the others, after trying her skill at decorating cookies.
"Cookies?" Kirk confirmed, to Uhura's eager nod.
"Mister Spock had them made for everyone, from the replicator."
"Mister Spock did?"
"Aye, Sir."
He took a cup from the table they leaned on, and sipped it. Hot chocolate.
"I was just on my way to see him…"
"I understand, Sir," she said, "Have a good night."
"You too, Lieutenant. Enjoy some hot chocolate, if you get the chance."
The captain patted her shoulder before turning and weaving through the crowd. He felt obligated to speak with everyone who stopped him, and sighed when he finally found Spock, standing quietly by the replicator.
"Any good?" Kirk grinned and grabbed a cookie from the neat stack.
"According to more than fifty percent of crewmen," said Spock, "but I have not eaten one."
"Here," nudged Kirk, "We'll split it."
He snapped the cookie roughly in half, and counted down so they would begin eating simultaneously.
"It is not unpleasant," Spock decided.
As Kirk composed a compliment, Doctor McCoy joined them. Nurse Chapel had a friendly arm looped through his, and was careful in stepping away and levelling two drinks.
"Punch," she said, presenting one to Spock, "And there's no chocolate in it."
"Thank you," he paused and considered her expression. It was hopeful, "Christine."
"Cheers," Kirk said, then McCoy. All four glasses were tapped together.
During their conversation, Scotty stopped by. Alexander found them shortly afterward.
"Just wanted to find ya before I called it a night," Scotty said, holding the captain's shoulder, "Got a bit of work to get done."
Kirk nodded, then leaned down to address Alexander:
"How's your project coming along?"
"Oh, well… that's why we're leaving early. I hope you don't mind, Sir."
"Gotta test a few things," Scotty added.
"Good luck, then," Kirk said, "I can't wait to see it."
Both engineers wove through the crowd and through the door.
The evening was pleasant, and filled with all the things Kirk expected – playful trading of gifts, shared stories, and plentiful refreshments. Then, the Christmas tree.
Sulu explained it – at Chekov's insistence – as it was unfolded in the center of the room. The tree was grown from an actual sample of pine, rather than created artificially. Uhura remarked about its beauty while Rand asked about its name.
"We'll name her once she's decorated," Sulu explained, "That'll give her more character."
Some volunteered their empty stockings as ornaments, while others borrowed bells from their uniforms.
"Doctor," Spock insisted, "I believe you should accompany me to the corridor at this time."
"What? Why?"
Sulu produced a metallic star, and promised to help Uhura set it atop the tree, as she was not tall enough on her own.
Kirk looked briefly at Spock's eyes, and understood his brief nod. The captain stood to block McCoy's view of the tree, and yawned. He set down his mug of hot chocolate, nearly empty.
"I'll bet you need some sleep, Jim," McCoy said, already leading him toward the door, "Can't imagine you got enough last night."
"I don't think anyone did," he offered, once they were sheltered in the quiet corridor. The three officers walked in a straight line, with the captain in the center.
Although no one dictated a direction or destination, they arrived at Kirk's cabin.
"Merry Christmas, Jim," McCoy said, "Goodnight."
Spock repeated the condolence, while the doors shut.
Through the years,
we all will be together,
if the fates allow.
Hang a shining star,
upon the highest bough.
And have yourself,
a merry little Christmas now.