Divided Loyalties

DIVIDED LOYALTIES
JM Lane

Christine's hopes were eventually realized...but only up to a point. Still, she had learned not to complain too much, simply be thankful for what attention Spock was willing to give her, even as she knew where his true affections--and deepest bond--lay. Considering what she had heard of the pon farr, she told herself to be thankful that she wouldn't have to endure that
time in Spock's life every seven years, where his emotions became uncontroll- able. She was more than happy to leave that to Kirk, who was much better equipped to handle it.
With a part of herself, the female Doctor was pleased that the Captain was so jealous and envious of her because she was able to have children...or more specifically, Spock's children. Christine recalled how sick and tired she'd been since becoming pregnant; she was nauseated almost constantly, finding it very difficult to keep food down-until a pregnancy-safe anti-nausea drug ended it, and an iron supplement, along with sufficient sleep, all but ended her weari- ness. Too bad Leonard didn't have a drug to erase loneliness, sadness or feelings of unfair persecution.
As a medical expert, she was well aware that however much Kirk might have wanted that, he just wasn't built for it...in more ways than one. She had heard of an experimental procedure, which would give men the ability to have at least one child, but was certain that Spock would veto that if he knew how much Kirk wanted to try it, in fear for his partner's life, because it was reputed to be dangerous for a Human, especially if the Human had a non-Human lover.
If pregnancy could be so hard on someone built for it, she reasoned, how would it affect a person ordinarily built to impregnate, not be impregnated? She could imagine, just as she could imagine how Spock would react to seeing Kirk that way. Not to mention the fact that the latter could no longer function as Captain, and Spock would be obliged to take over--and everyone knew Spock's views on that subject.
It was difficult enough as it was to keep the true relationship between the Captain and First Officer of the Enterprise a secret from the gossips aboard ship. Some could be particularly nasty, not to mention lewd, and she wanted to spare Spock that as well as herself...and even the Captain, if only for Spock's sake. Even at that, sordid rumors on the subject had circulated throughout the ship, and all involved had consistently denied it--making sure those who knew otherwise were kept in line with various forms of discipline.
She and Spock had modified their private relationship, arranging to alternate nights so that he would be able to spend every other night with Kirk. Naturally she wasn't fond of the idea, but at least it was something she could live with. Still, there had been times that they were supposed to have been together...but Christine knew that if Kirk had had a tough day on-shift, was lonely, ill or injured, Spock would want to be with him at times like that, so an exception was made, even if it was technically her turn.
The Vulcan did his best to keep these times to a minimum, but sometimes they were unavoidable--so when they occurred, Spock was thoughtful enough of her feelings to make amends to her as soon as possible, almost literally bending over backwards to accommodate her. Christine knew this couldn't have been easy for him, and loved her Vulcan husband all the more for his sacrifice for her sake. Still, there were all too many days she herself felt sick, lonely or cranky because of her pregnancy, but had to deal with it virtually on her own (only McCoy or Uhura could bring her solace at times like that, even occasionally). Other times, nothing helped...and those nights she had cried herself to sleep, longing for the warmth of Spock's body next to hers, his strong but gentle arms around her, his velvety voice crooning Vulcan endearments in her ear.


Unfortunately, this night was also one of those that were technically hers, but again, Kirk had needed Spock for one reason or another--and Christine forced herself not to think about what they were probably doing; otherwise, she'd climb the proverbial wall. This was definitely not her idea of a romantic evening, left alone and three months pregnant in their quarters, not when she knew that her beloved was in the arms of another, kissing, caressing and making love to him. She had even had nightmares when she chose to dwell on the subject, which she did as seldom as possible...but sometimes she couldn't help it.
She had to constantly remind herself that she wasn't any less a woman because of the bizarre situation she was in. It wasn't Spock's fault that he loved and needed Kirk so much, and she could not deny her loved one anything that made him happy, even at her own expense. It was admittedly difficult, but living without him and having to watch it going on would be infinitely worse--the former being the lesser of the evils, as it were. Even at that, there were times that she was certain she wouldn't be able to stand it one more day. Thank God for divine strength and friends like Leonard and Nyota. She couldn't have made it without them.
The lonely nights were coming more and more often lately, and Christine couldn't help thinking that Kirk was doing this on purpose, getting back at her, taking his jealousy and envy out on her for being the one able to become preg- nant...but was as sure as she knew her own name that it wouldn't do any good to even attempt to discuss it with Spock. He had told her when he proposed that Kirk would honor his choice, but the Human seemed to have either gone back on his word or totally ignored the request. Still, the Captain was obviously clever enough to always have a legitimate reason--at least at first glance--for summoning Spock...but of late, the summonses were coming far too often and Christine was beginning to smell a rat.
As far as she was concerned, Spock was far too easily taken in by Kirk; she was convinced that he would do or say literally anything to keep Spock at his side, away from her. But if she said a word against him, their discussions invariably turned into quarrels and Spock would retreat behind his coldest Vulcan shell, sometimes even seeking Kirk out while Christine sobbed out her anger and hurt in their quarters alone, so cold and lonely without the warmth of his presence.
No matter what Kirk did, how he acted, it wouldn't change the fact of her pregnancy...although he didn't seem to want to be reminded of that. It also didn't seem to matter to him what happened to her as long as he got what he wanted--but even as atypical of him as these actions were, she had to remind herself that Kirk wasn't normal, simply couldn't be generous where Spock was concerned.
Perhaps it was unrealistic for Spock to have expected him to go along with it, to have to share him both publicly and privately. The former he could live with; the latter was another matter altogether. Especially when he was used to having exclusive claim for so long. When they were getting along, it was wonder- ful, and despite the difficulties, she loved Spock as much as ever, even willing to go along with their present arrangement. It was Kirk's actions which were giving her fits.
How she would ever resolve it without alienating Spock, she had no idea. How could he be so stubbornly blind to what the Captain was doing? There had even been times when the Vulcan had suggested she join him and Kirk in bed, but Christine had never been one for a menage a trois and never would be. The last time he'd asked, she had refused so emphatically that he had never mentioned the subject again, even apologizing for asking such a thing of her...or expecting that she would go along with it to please him, even if it was personally repugnant to her. Two in her bed were quite sufficient, thank you.


She had been afraid to ask Spock which of them he found most attractive, even as much as she wanted to know. Of course, he had eventually sensed her anxiety and did his best to ease her mind.
"Each of you is beautiful in your own way, my wife. Both of you complement me perfectly, mentally, emotionally and physically. Now, let us move on to better things." His voice had trailed off as he had lifted her face to his and kissed her deeply, then literally swept her off her feet and carried her to bed in order to prove his point, his body following hers down, his lips and hands intimately exploring her body and making her forget everything but his nearness, even as she experienced heavenly ecstasy at his every touch, his every kiss and caress.
She marveled that Spock could do such a thing with scarcely any effort. Who but a well-disciplined Vulcan could separate his two lives so neatly and cleanly? Still, when they were together, it seemed like there were only the two of them left in the world--the feelings and desires smoldering within their bodies all that mattered.
But that night was now over two weeks in the past; every time since then when she'd thought she and Spock could actually spend a few hours together, Kirk would call him on some pretext and he would be gone again, usually until well into the night, if not into the next morning or afternoon. Sometimes he even came back with his uniform rumpled, socks missing or his hair tousled, if not a bruise or sore spot on a private area of his body.
Spock would apologize profusely upon his return and promise it would never happen again...but it always did, and from the looks of things, it always would. If only she could think of some way to put a stop to it and get back to the original arrangement!
But even as difficult as it was to evttemttempt to discuss it with Spock, there was no way in Hell she could confront Kirk on the subject. He would emphatically deny any wrongdoing and what was worse, tell Spock a cleverly concocted story when next they met, designed to make Christine seem like the villain, and Spock would swallow it-even when the truth was on her side, thereby causing a lot of their "knock-down, drag-out" fights. How would she ever be able to make him see that?
She also couldn't help wondg ifg if Spock had ever told Kirk what he had told her regarding their individual attractiveness to him. Had he phrased it the same way, or had he told Kirk differently? Was that the reason the Captain was acting as he was? Neither of them had said one way or the other, and she was most curious. Still, she knew how stubborn each could be if she tried to pressure them. Perhaps she could have either McCoy or Uhura try to find out, then let her know.
She couldn't entirely blame Kirk for his actions. After all, before she had married Spock, the Captain had been the Vulcan's sole friend, confidant, bondmate and lover--but now, he had to share Spock's affection, as well as his bed and his loyalty, with Christine...and she was certain that it had to be driving him crazy. But not even that gave Kirk the right to usurp her rights as Spock's wife--she had as much right to him as Kirk did. Yet how would she ever be able to assert herself and still remain in her husband's good graces? She was fast running out of ideas. Maybe if she discussed her options with Nyota or Leonard, they could come up with something between them. Meanwhile, she had to continue her emotional tightrope-walking, although she couldn't help wondering just how much longer she could keep it up.

**********

Christine would be put on maternity leave in another month or so. However, when that happened, she had insisted on having busy-work to do in her quarters; Spock came so seldom any more that she couldn't accurately call it "their" quarters, even though most of his things were here.
If he wasn't on duty or doing some scientific research, she was convinced that he was doing "research" of a far more personal kind. She also couldn't say with any degree of accuracy that she had a "husband" in any real sense other than the technical. Most husbands generally shared their wives' beds and spent private time with them ...and Spock hadn't done either of those things in weeks.
So much for his promises, she thought bitterly, though she couldn't entirely blame him. Kirk had him so wrapped around his little finger that he performed on command, like a trained animal--and never mind how she might feel about the matter. Well, that was going to change, and soon, if she had anything to say about it!
She had contacted Sickbay and asked McCoy to come to her quarters to examine her; the Doctor knew Christine well enough to know that that wasn't
the only reason she wanted to see him. He said he would, but if she wanted to discuss what he suspected, he could promise only that he would do his best. Christine showered and put on a caftan-like garment with sandals, then sat down on her bed to wait for McCoy, who was due shortly after 1400, when he got off-shift. The buzzer jolted her back to reality.
"Come," she called; the door swished open.
"How you feelin', Chris?" McCoy asked with a smile as he entered, then headed for her.
"I've been better, I've been worse," she tossed back, preparing herself for the examination--which was over in a little under fifteen minutes.
"Well, you're doing OK physically, Chris, at least for the time being, but let me know if anything changes," the Doctor cautioned. "How long has it been since you've been with Spock...or more accurately, since he's been here?"
"Physically, emotionally--or at all?" she asked bitterly. "I could give you three different answers." Her voice was filled with both anger and pain. McCoy felt for her, but wasn't sure if there was anything he could do to help her because of the stubbornness of the personalities involved. How anyone could love such a person as Spock, McCoy had never been able to figure out, especially when the Vulcan was treating Christine as he was now, though things had been going fairly well (at least as far as McCoy could tell) up until approximately two weeks ago.
"Okay, so I'll take the three different answers," McCoy quipped.
"Physically, Spock's been here many times--approximately a dozen in the last two weeks, usually just long enough to change clothes and bathe. Emotion- ally, I don't think he's ever been here...not completely, not even when we're closest together. I suppose I can'tme hme him--after all, he's always cared for the Captain the most.
"I've always known that...but I thought I might have a chance when you said he cared for me and that I should give him a chance to prove himself. Well, I did, and you were right. Up to a point, anyway. But I'll never regret this..." Christine put a hand on her gently rounded belly. "I only wish I was emotionally strong enough to endure neglect."
Tears filled her eyes. "In the real sense, we haven't been husband and wife for at least two weeks, haven't slept together or anything like that. He's hardly touched me, in fact, much less kissed me or made love to me. Maybe he sees no reason to, since I'm pregnant now. He has someone else to make love to, anyway...and the one he really wants, not one he married simply to bear children for him." She moved into McCoy's arms, burying her face in his shoulder.


"I'm sorry, Chris. I wish I could make things easier for you--but you knew what you were getting into when you married him."
"I suppose I should have expected this long before now," Christine returned. "But since Spock said he wanted children, and I coulde the them to him, I figured it was worth the risk."
McCoy sighed. "So what do you want me to do?"
"Try to convince the Captain and Spock to go back to the original arrange- ment. Whether they deign to remember the fact or not, I am still Spock's wife, and as such, have as much right to him as the Captain does."
"Chris, the Captain and Spock have been involved for over twenty years... intimately involved. The main things you have with Spock are the child you bear and your feelings for him. No matter what you do, you'll always be second-best, even if you get him back and things go back to the way they were before. Besides, Jim doesn't take kindly to being overruled, especially where Spock's concerned. He's had it his way for so long that he's not about to give it up, any of it, without a fight."
"But the Captain knows that Spock wants a family, and that marriage is the only way for him to have one," Christine reminded him. "I would think that he could afford to be generous."
"He could afford to be, yes, but that doesn't mean he will," the Doctor warned. "And you know by now that Jim has his ways of getting revenge on anyone he sees as standing in his way, keeping him from having exclusive claim to Spock...even his wife--a wife who carries his child."
"But a wife in name only," Christine retorted bitterly. "You know the only reason Spock married me was to have children. Despite his claims, he doesn't really give a damn about me otherwise. As you said, the Captain's the only one he's ever truly loved."
"Even so, you still want me to try because your rights as a wife have been violated--and whatever Spock's devotion to Jim, Vulcans value family and children second only to logic."
"Exactly," Christine agreed.
"Well, I'll do my best," McCoy promised. "I can't promise I'll succeed, but I can promise that I'll do my best."
"That's all I could ask," the female Doctor replied. "If nothing else, Leonard, my child needs a father. If only for that reason, please do everything you can to persuade Spock to return."
"Count on it," McCoy assured her. He hugged her affectionately, then kissed her forehead and prepared to take his leave. "Take care, honey. I'll see you later." With that, he was gone.


Part 2

McCoy asked the ship's computer where Spock was, deciding he'd better talk to him before he lost his nerve--provided the Vulcan was alone and his watchdog wasn't hovering anywhere nearby. He was pleased to hear that confirmed.
"Commander Spock is in Science Lab #3. He is alone," the computer informed him.
"Good. Thank you." With that, the Doctor opened the intership intercom. "McCoy to Spock."
"Spock here," came the Vulcan's deep, throaty voice.
"May I speak with you...privately?" he added carefully, certain that Spock's eyebrows must have shot up at the last word.
There was silence for a time, then the First Officer replied, "You may. I am in Science Lab #3."


"See you in a few minutes. McCoy out." With that, the Doctor stepped into the nearest turbolift and was on his way.

**********

Twenty minutes later, McCoy walked into the aforementioned Science Lab, finding Spock at a lab table, surrounded by test tubes, containers of various-colored solutions and a computer terminal showing an intricate scientific formula. "What did you wish to discuss with me, Doctor?" the Vulcan asked upon noting McCoy's presence, his tone somewhat suspicious.
"Before I tell you, please try to take this in the spirit it's meant. I'm not only speaking to you as a doctor, but as a friend." He stopped, expecting Spock to emphatically deny there was any such emotion as friendship between them--but to his pleasant surprise, Spock didn't.
"Very well. What did you wish to say?"
"First off, when was the last time you saw Christine?"
Spock's eyes narrowed. "Yesterday afternoon. Why do you ask?"
"How long has it been since you spent any time with her? I'm sure you know what I mean."

"Is that really any of your affair, Doctor? She is my wife, not yours."
"She's my friend," McCoy shot back. "That makes it my affair."
Spock sighed. "It has been approximately two point-eight weeks since our last physical joining," he reluctantly admitted.
"Nothing since?" the Doctor asked, well able to guess how Spock had satisfied himself in the meantime.
Spock shook his head. "I have been--occupied."
No doubt, the Doctor thought wryly even as he spoke again. "I just gave Christine her latest checkup; for the moment, she's fine...physically. Emotionally, she's in a pretty bad state. Sad, lonely, with feelings of neglect and persecution."
The Vulcan's brows shot up. "Why should she feel that way?"
"Can't you guess?" the Doctor retorted. "She's even convinced herself that you don't care about her any more, not even simply because of the baby. If this stress isn't relieved soon, she could lose it. At a time like this, a woman needs emotional support from her husband--his holding her, kissing her, telling her he loves her and their baby, things like that."
"Are you telling me that I have been neglecting her?" Spock's voice was ominously quiet.
"You said it, I didn't." The Doctor took a breath, then continued. "Haven't there been several nights this week that you technically should have been with her?"
Spock's eyes narrowed again. "I believe so, yes...but our arrangement gives me the option of spending that time elsewhere if I so choose, as long as I inform her beforehand."
"Even so, she's still your wife," McCoy pointed out. "If only in name. I think you owe her at least some of your valuable time, if only for the sake of your baby. Don't you think so?"
Spock sighed. "I believe you have a point there, Doctor. Very well; I will visit her this evening. You may inform her."
"Good. May I give her some idea when to expect you?"
"Approximately 1800 hours. Perhaps she and I could share a meal."
"I think she'd like that," McCoy smiled. "And perhaps the evening...that is, if you don't have any--pressing engagements." There was silence for a time, then the Vulcan shook his head.


"Great. I'll contact her. Thank you for your time, Spock."
Spock nodded in McCoy's direction, then spoke just as McCoy was about to step out. "Why did Christine not tell me these things herself? The intercom goes both ways, you know."
"Couldn't say. I can only assume that she preferred to tell you in person, and you haven't been there long enough for her to speak to you at any length. You've been keeping yourself pretty scarce from her lately, from what I under- stand, and she needs you as much, if not more than, Jim does. If you give a damn about her at all, you'll do something about it."
With that, the Doctor stepped out the door of the Lab, unable to help thinking, Might also be because she figured it wouldn't do any good to mention it, since Jim would overrule her on everything--and you'd take his side against her, as likely as not.

**********

Christine was pleased to hear that McCoy had managed to convince Spock to come see her. Unfortunately, Leonard couldn't guarantee that he would stay, that Kirk wouldn't interfere again. She hoped for the best, but knowing what Kirk was capable of where Spock was concerned, fully expected the worst.

**********

The Doctor went to Kirk next, warning him not to screw up the evening he had arranged for Spock and Christine. "Stop being so greedy, Jim. Spock needs to be with her as much as you need to be with him...and owes her a helluva lot for being willing to go through so much for his sake. You can afford to be generous just this once. Leave them alone, at least for tonight. Whether you like it or not, Christine is his wife, and has as much right to him as you do."
"We both know why he married her, Bones," Kirk threw back. "Besides, I haven't been tying him down or forcing him to stay with me. He's been staying with me because he wants to."
"More accurately, it's because you keep dragging him away from her unnecessarily," McCoy retorted.
Kirk's eyes narrowed, but he didn't deny it.
"That wasn't the arrangement, Jim. You were only supposed to be with him every other night unless it was an emergency--not every day for the last two weeks. You've taken her turn at least six times so far."
"Sounds like she's been filling your head with all kinds of sob-stories about how Spock's been neglecting her and that it's mainly my fault." Kirk almost sneered. "But don't worry. I'll stay out of it--this time. Even so, not even you have the right to tell me who I can and can't spend time with."
"I'm not trying to," the Doctor denied. "I just believe that Christine deserves equal time, that's all."
"I really think Spock should be the one to make that decision, Bones. And answer me this: if he wanted to be with her, why didn't he tell me? All he had to do was say so."
"Because you obviously gave him the impression that you needed him more than she did--even if you didn't--as far as I can tell," McCoy opined. "Enough is enough, Jim. I know how jealous and envious you are because Christine can give him children and you can't...but it's something you're going to have to live with, because you can't change it.



"You also can't go on being so selfish and childish. I can understand your wanting to be with him, but Christine needs to spend time with him, too, though she hasn't said anything because she doesn't want to 'upset the applecart', as it were. She cares more for him than herself. Shouldn't you do the same? If you really care about Spock, you'll consider his wishes over your own. His feelings should come first."
The Doctor sighed, knowing that Jim couldn't be pleased with him for butting into what he considered none of McCoy's business...but if someone didn't do something, Jim would run roughshod over Christine and Spock would allow it, even though he didn't consciously mean to hurt or neglect her, McCoy was sure of that. If the Doctor had to play the heavy--or devil's advocate--so be it, if it meant Christine's happiness. It was all he could do for her.

*********

Christine felt as nervous as the proverbial cat as she prepared for Spock's arrival. How Leonard had managed to convince him to come, she never knew...but what mattered to her was that he was coming. Hopefully they could simply enjoy each other and their time together, not argue about the reasons behind his staying away from her for so long. How she longed to feel his arms around her, his lips on hers, his body possessing hers, once again... She refused to feel guilty about possibly dragging him away from Kirk. The Captain had had his pound of flesh and then some; she was entitled to some private time with her beloved, whether Kirk liked it or not. In spite of herself, Christine's heart pounded when she heard the buzzer sound at precisely 1800.
"Come," she said; the door swished open and Spock stepped in.
"Christine, I am here."
She appeared at the doorway to the sleeping alcove, dressed only in a filmy negligee, then the couple moved into each other's arms, holding and kissing each other with tender passion. "I've missed you, beloved--and so has our baby," she reminded him, patting her belly.
"I am sorry to have...neglected you, Christine," Spock apologized as they held each other, her head on his chest, his cheek on her hair. "I should never have allowed it to go on this long."
"As long as you're here now," she crooned, moving back to reach up and put her arms around his neck to once again pull him down into another lingering kiss even as she maneuvered him into the sleeping alcove, then onto the bed, so hungry for him--all of him--that she doubted she would ever get enough of him. The Vulcan found that his only hunger was for his wife...and acted accordingly, kissing, caressing and loving her with all the passion of a husband long denied the pleasure of his wife's body.
To Christine, it was like Heaven to be in Spock's arms once again, feel him close to her, inside her body and mind--his lips and hands intimately kissing and caressing her lips, nipples, the slick warmth between her long, lovely legs... As with their other joinings, it was as though there were only the two of them in the Universe and the only important thing their feelings for each other.
But considering Kirk's hostile propensities regarding sharing Spock, Christine couldn't be sure how long their interlude would be allowed to last. She could only hope that Leonard had actually managed to get through to him, made him think of Spock's happiness before his own, at least this once.

**********




Christine awakened the next morning to find Spock dressing, just lying in bed watching him and savoring every moment, mesmerized by every movement of his incredible body. If this could only happen more often...if only she dared to suggest it! It was hard to believe that last night had actually happened--one of the best nights of their lives together.
Best of all, a certain thorn in her side hadn't interrupted them; instead, he had actually allowed them to have a complete night together...their first in almost three weeks. She hoped it would last longer, but had learned not to expect such a thing, since Kirk had a positive talent for knowing just when to interrupt them. She suspected it had something to do with the bond between him and Spock, but vowed that she was going to do all she could to keep him from interfering again.
She had waited far too long to be with Spock again as it was; the last thing she intended was to allow Kirk to butt into her private time with Spock any more than absolutely necessary. The Captain could think what he liked of
her as long as she had her fair share of private time with her husband. She continued watching him until he had finished dressing, not speaking until he started for the door.
"Spock?" she called out.
He turned around, allowing himself a smile at the sight of her as she leaned on one elbow, seeming oblivious to the fact that the blankets only covered her to the waist. One of his favorite parts of his wife's body were her breasts, two creamy globes which fit perfectly in his hands and pink, rosebud nipples which tasted so sweet in his mouth...
Christine could see in her husband's eyes how much he appreciated the sight of her and felt his renewed desire, enjoying every moment despite the fact that she knew he couldn't stay.
"I must leave, Christine," he told her, voice filled with regret and apology.
"I know. Will I see you Wednesday night?" Wednesday was their next scheduled night together. She had to ask, even though she was afraid of the answer--because now that Spock had returned to her, she wasn't about to let
him go to Kirk any more often than their arrangement called for...if she could possibly manage it.
Spock was silent for a long time, not wanting to disappoint her again. She had already endured so much these last three weeks--but he was so emotionally weak that he could never turn Jim down whenever he called and said he needed him. The Vulcan cursed his weakness, but seemed unable to do anything about it.
He wished he could, for Christine's sake. She deserved a lot better treatment than she'd been getting lately, and he was glad that McCoy had finally stepped in and laid down the law. He must also have warned Jim off...and in spite of himself, Spock was pleased that the Doctor had intervened, though he was equally sure that Jim hadn't been.
However many arguments he and the Doctor may have engaged in, Spock had to admire the fact that McCoy was not easily intimidated, and respected the Chief Surgeon for sticking to his guns in telling Jim to back off and leave him and Christine alone. Kirk couldn't like it, but if the Captain valued anyone's opinion as much as he did Spock's, it was McCoy's--and if he'd listen to anyone other than Spock, it would be the Doctor.
"If all goes well," he finally said, having to answer her because she was giving him strange looks due to his long silence. "I will contact you one way or the other."

Christine knew that that was the best she could expect, considering the way things had been going of late...so she didn't pressure him. "All right."
She sat up, this time modestly holding the blankets over her bare breasts. "Could you kiss me goodbye?"
Spock hesitated a moment, then sat down on the bed close to her. She lifted her head to face him as he bent his head to find her lips in a lingering kiss and hold her close as he did so. Upon releasing her, he put a hand on her gently rounded belly and smiled. "Again, I am sorry to have neglected you, my wife. I will do my best to return to you at my earliest opportunity."
If only for our child's sake, Christine thought. Not exactly what I'd hoped for, but better than nothing.
Spock touched her cheek, then stood up and turned for the door again. "Would you like to share a meal with me when I return?"
Christine smiled again. "I'd like that very much, Spock."
"If at all possible, we shall do so, my wife. Until then, take care of yourself and our child." He moved to the door.
"I will," she assured him. "Have a good day, Spock."
"And you, Christine," he replied, then stepped out the door and was gone.
She sat in bed for a while, hugging the pillow which still held the essence of him, smiling at the thought of all they had shared before getting up to shower and dress.


Part 3

After Spock got off-duty, he headed for Kirk's quarters, since it was officially one of their days together--but the Vulcan felt sure that Jim would try to usurp one of Christine's official days again, if allowed the chance. Not that he particularly blamed him, but the Human seemed to believe that the end justified the means...that as long as Spock was with him, that was all that mattered.
It had been the same with Spock before his marriage to Christine and her pregnancy; now he had other things to consider, such as his upcoming fatherhood. If Kirk thought she was intruding on his time with Spock now, he would like it even less when the child arrived, because the Vulcan would feel duty-bound to spend as much time as possible with his son or daughter. (The parents-to-be had chosen not to inquire as to the gender of their unborn child, preferring to wait until the birth to find out.)
Many times, even through his shields, Spock had felt Jim's hostility toward Christine, his jealousy and envy of her because she was able to have children and he was not, even as much as he wanted to. Neither could he blame her if she felt persecuted because of this, as the Doctor had said, and not wanting to tell him because of his possible reaction to any negative input from her regarding Kirk. The Human had even mentioned wanting to look into the possibility of the experimental procedure which, if successful, could enable him to have a child for Spock.
The Vulcan loved his partner all the more for feeling that way, but believed it far too risky. Jim's life would be put on the line for a dubious return at best, and Spock could not bear the thought of something happening to him. He knew that Jim had always been one to "go where angels fear to tread", as the Human expression went, risk his very life for something he strongly believed in. Kirk would believe any risk worth it if it meant having a child for the one he loved, but Spock would far rather have him alive and beside him, even if it meant that they would remain childless.


Spock was aware how much it rankled Jim that Christine had become pregnant so soon after the Vulcan's marriage to her. He regretted the distress it was causing on both sides, but saw no acceptable alternative. The last time the subject was brought up, it had degenerated from a discussion into an argument, an argument into a quarrel. Jim had practically begged him to let him try the procedure, but the Vulcan remained adamant.
"So you'd rather have children from Christine than me?" Kirk retorted bitterly.
"I did not say that. I simply believe it illogical for you to risk your life unnecessarily."
"Is it illogical to want to give you a child, Spock?" the Human shot back.
"Of course not, Jim. I simply have no wish to see you put your life in danger."
"I'd take any risk if it meant giving you a child," Kirk returned stubbornly.
"Christine is taking enough of a risk, Jim, and her body is designed for childbirth. Yours is not."
Kirk didn't give up. "That experimental procedure isn't the only way for us to have a child. You've heard of taking DNA from both partners and combining them, then growing them until they could be implanted in a surrogate mother."
"That is a form of cloning, which is every bit as risky as the first procedure," Spock pointed out.
"But it wouldn't involve risking my life," Kirk reminded him. "Please, Spock. I want this so much. At least consider it."
Spock could sense how much Jim wanted to do this, how much it meant to him...not to mention how much he hated having to plead for anything, but the Vulcan knew he couldn't face the loss if he gave in to Jim's pleas and consented to the procedure--then something went wrong. Perhaps if he said he would at least consider it, that might buy him enough time to come up with a more convincing argument.
"Very well. I will consider it, and give you my decision as soon as possible," the Vulcan promised. "Until then, I wish to hear no more about it."
"But..."
"Not another word." Spock gently but firmly cut him off. "Now, let us get on to bigger and better things." He gave his companion what was (for him) a provocative smile, which prompted the Human to follow him as if hypnotized--right into the former's bedroom, where the two stopped next to the bed and the Vulcan reached up to touch the Human's cheek. Kirk reached up to cover Spock's hand with his own and smile affectionately before raising it to his lips to kiss it.
"I love you, Spock," he returned sincerely.
"And I cherish thee, my t'hy'la." Spock's eyes seemed to glow with the intensity of his feelings as he gazed upon Kirk.
"I hate having to share you," Kirk confessed.
"I know, but it is necessary," Spock crooned soothingly. "Besides, it is unimportant at the moment. What matters is here and now...the two of us...and our feelings for each other." The Vulcan opened his arms and Kirk stepped into them to rest his head on Spock's shoulder, locking his arms around his companion's slender waist. Spock rested his cheek on top of the Human's head, his arms strong but gentle around his chosen partner.



"It's so hard for me to be away from you, even if only for a day. I'm used to our being together all the time, but since you've gotten married--" Kirk's voice almost broke. "I miss you so much. I know the marriage is necessary for you in order to have the children you want, but nowhere is it written that I have to like it." The Human's tone was a mixture of pain and frustration. "I don't mean to usurp any of Christine's nights, either, but..."
The Captain broke off abruptly when Spock reached to silence him with one finger on his lips, then lifted his companion's chin to find the Human's lips with his own in a kiss which started out tender, gradually becoming passionate. After a time, their arms resumed their previous position, each embrace tighten- ing until the pair's bodies were seemingly molded together and feeling the other's arousal. A short time later, both lovers' hands moved down to press the other's lower body close to their own.
"Spock--" The Human's voice was husky with desire. "Oh God, what you do to me..."
"Yana itisha wanimo; wani itisha yanamos (You are mine, I am yours)," the Vulcan crooned in his native language as he maneuvered his Human partner down onto the bed beneath him.
Tearing his lips away, the former kissed his partner's neck, throat and ears. Not too much later, two pairs of hands and lips had undressed their lovers while continuing to kiss and caress intimately. Once the undressing was complete and the pair's uniforms were in a heap on the cabin floor, Kirk began kissing and licking his way down his partner's body, lingering on his erect, lime-green nipples standing out from the hair on his chest.
The Vulcan moaned and squirmed at the light touch of the Human's tongue, then his lips gently suckled tensiensitive protrusions. Kirk smiled at the reaction he was receiving, knowing he was one of only two people whom Spock had ever allowed himself to be aroused by--but right now, all that mattered was how Spock was reacting to him. The Human's lips soon kissed their way down to the Vulcan's belly, lingering there a moment before moving to the groin area, reaching to clasp his partner's erect member in his hand, loving how it throbbed so deliciously there...then bent his head to kiss the exquisitely sensitive head before drawing it into his mouth to lick and suck.
Again, Spock moaned and squirmed under his lover's sexy ministrations, and the Human said, "Spock, how could anyone be as delicious as you?" His hand then moved to gently fondle his alien lover's balls, enjoying the feel of them firming up in his hand. The Human savored the hot, sweet nectar that flowed into his eager mouth like a gourmet meal, relishing the Vulcan's husky moan at the moment of fulfillment. Once Spock had recovered, Kirk moved to lie beside him, in his arms, for a time.
"I'm glad I still please you, Spock--but I'm not done yet," Kirk assured him. "If you'd be so kind as to turn over, then get on your knees..."
The Vulcan did so without a murmur of protest, instead spreading his legs sufficiently after his Human lover positioned him so that it would be a simple matter to part his cheeks and enter his sweetly tight asshole after lubricating it so that his partner would feel nothing but pleasure. The latter moved inside as slowly as possible, savoring every momef inf intimacy with his Vulcan lover, particularly this moment, when his own hard, deliciously throbbing cock filled the former's beautiful (and hungry) ass. It didn't take long before the Human was ready to explode with liquid love inside his lover's body.
Kirk's hands held his partner's hips securely as he moved faster and harder inside him...climbing higher and higher until he filled his lover's beautiful butt with his cock and its contents. He seemed unable to stop coming, and frankly didn't care how long it went on as long as he could feel himself inside the Vulcan's body. When he finally finished and had cried out in ecstasy, his fluids were overflowing down the other's cheeks and inner thighs, but the Human was unfortunately too tired to do anything about it.
Spock seemed to sense this and dropped down onto the bed, putting himself into a sleep-trance even as his Human partner snuggled close to him, keeping himself pressed between the Vulcan's sweet cheeks while his arms locked around his waist and his head rested on the former's bare back before he reluctantly reached to pull the bedcovers up over their intricately entwined bodies. Just before falling asleep, Kirk thought to his Vulcan lover, I've made love to you, Spock. Now you've got to make love to me.
In the morning, came the half-drowsy answer in his mind. Now, it is logical that we both get some sleep, since we will need all the energy we can get.
Whatever you say, Spock, Kirk thought back. Good night.
Sleep well, t'hy'la, Spock returned, reaching to cover his Human lover's hands with his own before falling asleep. I only hope that I will be able to please you as much as you have pleased me.
Kirk knew he would have to make that session last as long as possible, since Spock was due to return to Christine the following evening, and even as much as he hated the idea (not to mention the arrangements the Vulcan had made with each of them), he had to abide by it--at least for the moment--if only to defuse her possible arguments regarding him before they reached unmanageable proportions.

**********

Spock's latest checkup was scheduled for 1600 hours the following afternoon. Since he seemed to be free for the night (again), he felt safe
in making contact with Christine in regards to their regularly scheduled rendezvous. At least while McCoy was out of the room, anyway. He even found himself telling her about his previous night with Kirk...or at least the argument they'd had regarding children. Christine even managed to sympathize with the Captain.
"Can't really blame him," she remarked. "I mean, I know how I'd feel
in his shoes--if I wanted children, but couldn't have them for one reason or another."
"But you can," Spock pointed out.
"I know," she returned. "I was speaking hypothetically."
Before either of them could speak again, McCoy came back in. "Trouble
in Paradise, Spock?" he quipped, obviously having overheard the conversation between Spock and Christine.
Christine gave the Doctor a pained look, but McCoy ignored her.
Spock simply raised an eyebrow and coolly retorted, "Simply a momentary difference of opinion, Doctor."
"How are things going with you and Spock lately, Chris?" the Doctor asked.
Christine and Spock exchanged a meaningful look, then he nodded...and she replied. "
"Pretty well, at the moment." She looked at Spock again for permission to speak further. "We're supposed to get together again tonight, in fact."
Both held their breaths, waiting for McCoy's reaction.
"Glad to hear it," the Doctor opined. "Hope it keeps up. May I ask if you have any specific plans for the evening?"
"We were planning to have dinner, for one thing," Christine replied, unwilling to elaborate.
Fortunately, McCoy didn't press for more information. "Sounds good. Chris, would you go get me a hypo of stokaline? Spock needs a shot."


Christine seemed about to protest, then simply turned and left. The Chief Surgeon leaned closer to Spock. "I didn't think you'd want Christine to hear what I'm going to ask you," he explained. "That's one reason I sent her away. I noticed that you've been moving with unusual care. Did you have an unusually--spirited interlude last night or something?"
Spock gave the Doctor a hard look and his eyes narrowed, but he finally said, "Most spirited, Doctor. One might even say...vigorous."
"Jim was that insistent, huh?" McCoy returned with a chuckle.
"Indeed," the Vulcan concurred, unwilling to say anything more--and it
was a good thing, too, because Christine returned at that moment and handed her superior the hypo of stokaline. He adjusted it for the proper dosage, then pressed it against Spock's arm; it sank down with a soft hiss.
"There, Spock; that should hold you until you can get something to eat," McCoy said, patting Spock briefly on the shoulder as the two men exchanged conspiratorial looks, which Christine caught and which prompted her to frown suspiciously, vowing to find out from whomever was available to ask just what had passed between them at the first opportunity. "Well, I'd better get back to the paperwork for the upcoming crew physicals. See you two later. Have a good time tonight."
With that, the Chief Surgeon departed, leaving the couple in privacy. Once McCoy was gone, Christine confronted her husband.
"All right, Spock, what happened while I was gone? I have a feeling that Leonard sent me for that hypo simply to get rid of me for a few minutes so he could talk to you alone for some reason."
The Vulcan gave his wife an innocent look. "'What happened'? Nothing happened."
She scowled at him. "Don't insult my intelligence, Spock. I know a conspiracy when I see one."
"There is no 'conspiracy', my wife," Spock assured her. "Simply a brief conversation between Dr. McCoy and myself, involving what you might call 'man talk'."
Christine gave her husband a quizzical look. "Since when do you and Leonard ever have 'man talk'?"
"Since I married you," the Vulcan returned archly. "Now, let us go to dinner. Would you be averse to having an early meal before we retire to our quarters?"
Christine had to fight to keep from showing her surprise and pleasure at the "our quarters" reference. "Not at all," she returned with a smile. "Let's go. I'm starved!"
Spock allowed himself to return the smile, then offered his arm. "Have you decided what you will eat?"
"I'll decide when we get there," she told him as they headed for the doors. "By the way, have you decided what to eat yet?"
"Not yet," he replied. "As you say, I will decide when we get there." With that, the couple left Sickbay and headed down the corridor to the turbolift at the far end, stepped into it upon arrival, then Spock said, "Deck Three," and the doors closed...then they were on their way--to both dinner and whatever they decided to do when they were alone in their quarters later on. Both considered it logical to have a substantial meal in order to prepare themselves for the coming evening, which promised that they would need all the energy the food would give them.


Part 4

True to their word, the couple picked out their meals upon arrival. Spock chose a predominantly Terran meal, which didn't surprise Christine that much, since she assumed that either Kirk or Amanda had introduced him to the food at some point. Cream of broccoli soup (a large bowl) with veggie crackers, along with a large glass of V-8 Tropical Blend juice (carrot and apple juice mixed
in with the juice of several exotic fruits), and for dessert, three good-sized cinnamon rolls with lots of icing.
Christine ended up with an Italian meal, ravioli in tomato sauce covered with Parmesan cheese, with a side of garlic bread. She chose a form of lemon-lime Gatorade, a high-energy drink, "on the rocks". Dessert for her was a large slice of chocolate cake. She noted the Vulcan's unusually large portions and remarked, "Are you sure you're going to be able to eat all that?"
"I might say the same for you, Christine," Spock countered, looking over at her tray.
"I considered it 'logical' to eat a good-sized meal, considering how this evening is likely to turn out," she returned, giving him a knowing smile.
Spock agreed with her, though he didn't voice it...at least not at this point. Not verbally, at any rate.
Only a smile, look or mind-touch was exchanged between the couple, even when they ended their meal, each having eaten every bite of food before them, gathering the remains together and disposing of them, soon reaching their quarters and locking the door behind them. Neither did they touch yet, at least not physically, but Christine felt her husband's strong yearning for oneness with her--both mentally and physically--even though their bond was neither as strong nor as deep as the one he had with Kirk.
"Spock..." was all Christine could manage, overwhelmed by the depth of his desire.
"Christine, my wife..."
He reached a hand to touch her face; she lifted her own to cover it, then raised it to her lips to kiss it, trying to convey to him the strength of her own feelings even as she wondered what would come next. She hoped his feelings had developed on their own and not as an aftereffect of something he had done with Kirk, but what mattered was that Spock could and did feel this deeply for her, if only at this moment in time.
"What do you want, Spock? Just tell me and I'll do it." Christine couldn't help feeling that it was the closest thing they would ever experience to the pon farr. Not long afterward, she learned that Spock agreed with her summation. For a moment, she couldn't help wishing that she could experience the pon farr, if only once. She felt Spock's mixed regret and relief at the prospect.
"I am sorry, Christine. That is impossible--but this is the next best thing, so let us make the most of the time we have now." He allowed himself yet another smile at her. "In addition, I would not wish to put you through such an ordeal. It is enough that Jim must endure it." Her eyes clouded over. "Of course, if he pre-deceases you, it would be necessary for you to do just that."
She felt the pain the mere mention of Kirk's eventual death caused Spock, and attempted to reassure him. "I'm sure it won't happen for a long time. Don't worry. Meanwhile, I'm content if we can have this once in a while." She sighed, then stroked his lips. "Now, what did you have in mind?"
He was silent for a time, then slowly, quietly, spoke. "Would you object to our engaging in--physical love--in the bath?"

She smiled when she saw him blushing, somehow certain that he had never done such a thing before, or even suggested it...not even to his long-time lover, much less her, his wife--until now. "I have no objections, Spock," she returned with a smile. "But something like that takes a little time to prepare."
"I surmised that," he replied. "Computer, fill the bathtub with soapy water, temperature 38.4 degrees Centigrade," the Vulcan ordered. "Also, dim the lights to half-strength, then begin the designated music and ready the drinks when I give the word."
Christine was both surprised and not surprised that Spock had already researched and prepared for such an eventuality. "Very thorough, if somewhat presumptuous, Spock," she returned with a chuckle. "What if I'd said 'no'?"
"I would have suggested something else," her husband informed her evenly. "Now, let us prepare for the bath." He held out his hand to her; she took it and the couple went into the bathroom together, the door sliding shut behind them. The couple undressed in silence, though it was Spock who got into the water first. It was hard for Christine to believe he could still be that modest after all this time, even after becoming involved with two Humans--and intimately involved, at that. But that was obviously still the case.
Of course, that didn't necessarily mean that he didn't like seeing her or Kirk without clothes...besides, she enjoyed undressing for him at every opportu- nity--particularly if he was watching. In this case, the bathroom mirror was placed at just the right angle for him to be able to watch her undress, even if he was sitting down in the tub. She was even tempted to ask if Kirk had ever undressed for him, but didn't think she wanted to know the answer.
Besides, she preferred to think of the look in Spock's eyes when he saw her naked, like now. When she moved into his line of sight, Spock smiled and reached a hand out to her. She took it, and he helped her into the tub. Once there, she settled in beside him, snuggling her head on his shoulder after nuzzling his neck, enjoying his musky scent.
"This is the last thing I ever expected you to suggest, Spock," she commented as she slid her arms around his waist.
He lifted his head and kissed her temple, then rested his cheek on her hair. "You find this...objectionable?"
"Not objectionable. Far from it! Simply unexpected," she assured him, tightening her embrace.
"Then you wish to continue?" he asked, moving her face so their eyes met.
She reached to touch his cheek with one hand before her fingers lightly stroked the back of his neck. "I very much wish to continue."
The Vulcan smiled once again, provocatively this time, as he stroked his wife's cheek with his fingertips, then dropped his hand to pull her close. "That is all I wanted to know." In the next moment, tenderly passionate lips claimed hers--then, as the kiss gradually deepened, his tongue gently probed between her parted lips to entwine with hers. There was such an electric shock when their tongues made contact that both gasped from its intensity, abruptly releasing each other.
"Oh my God, Spock, that was powerful," Christine declared. "Almost as though we'd been struck by lightning."
"I have heard that...such a phenomenon...can occur when a couple--does ...what we did," he finished quietly.
"Among other things," she amended. "Now, let's finish what we started." She once again locked her arms around his neck and pulled her husband down into another tenderly passionate kiss. A moment later, he turned her beneath him after she had parted her legs to allow him access--then wrapped them around his slender hips once he was inside her. She moaned and squirmed as his movements stimulated her.

His hands and lips seemed to be everywhere; her entire body seemed to be one large erogenous zone and she could feel his pleasure through their bond, every bit as intense as her own, at the feeling of her hands and lips on his body.
Their kisses became so hungry that the couple couldn't seem to get enough
of them, even as Spock moved harder and faster inside her, hisds cds cupping his wife's buttocks and molding her pelvis against his own. Christine didn't think it was possible to feel such delicious pleasure in the act of love. This felt far too good to possibly be legal!
When he clutched at her and she clung to him, she knew it was only a matter of time until they both climaxed. He usually came before she did, although there were times when their releases came almost simultaneously...
which was the case this time, to the delight of both partners. Once they had come back to reality, they reached for the drinks--forgotten until now--and drank deeply. All the while they were making love, the classic Ravel piece Bolero had been playing in the background, one of the most sensuous pieces of music ever written, ranking right up there with Nightingale Woman. For a time, they had even moved to the rhythm of the music...which ended up heightening the already indescribable pleasure they were experiencing.
Only moments later, they realized that the water was now cold, prompting them to get out of the tub and Spock to tell the computer to drain it--though Christine noted that he hadn't told the computer to bring the lights up again or stop the music. Upon drying off, the couple left the bathroom and headed for the bedroom, Christine cradled in Spock's arms, all but asleep.
She smiled when she felt his lips brush her closed eyelids. He hadn't done that since their wedding night, which, incidentally, was also the last time they had made love more than once in one night (not to mention her conception date) ...but Christine was hopeful that it would happen again tonight--or perhaps in the morning. Either way, it would be one of the most wonderful nights of her life...and his, too, she hoped.
Meanwhile, she was too tired to think of anything but sleep. Spock's lovemaking always left her exhausted, albeit pleasantly so. She still hoped, however, that he would wish to make love to her again before they parted--and with that happy prospect in mind, Christine snuggled close to her Vulcan husband's warm, bare body once they were in bed, feeling the gentle strength of his arms around her as he allowed himself to fall asleep as well, shortly after she did.

**********

The next thing she knew, she was literally wrapped around Spock, their limbs and bodies intricately entwined. His head was on her left shoulder, while her head was on his right shoulder. She was also covered in perspiration, but the only dampness on Spock was from her. The heat of his body made her perspire even more, and it didn't help matters that the thermostat had been turned up for Vulcan comfort or that the blankets covered them to their shoulders.
After a time, she blew softly in his ear and whispered, "Spock, wake up." When he made no reaction, she took his nearest earlobe between her teeth and gently bit into it. "Spock!" she called, more urgently this time. He released her so abruptly that she fell back onto her pillow. Upon recovering from the surprise, she apologized. "Sorry, love, but I couldn't think of anything else to do that would get your attention." She gently touched his ear, then his cheek. "I hope I didn't hurt you."
"Just startled me. That is all," he assured her. "So, now that you have my attention, what did you wish to say?"



Christine threw off the blankets and got up. "I was trying to tell you that I was hot...but couldn't maneuver myself to throw off the blankets until now." With that, she went to the bathroom and a waa washcloth under cold water, refreshing herself after turning down the thermostat from 100 to 80 degrees, which was at least bearable for her. In spite of himself, Spock felt himself become aroused as he watched his wife refresh herself, thinking of when, where and how his hands and lips had kissed and caressed her.
After a time, he sat up in bed and called to her. "Christine, I would appreciate the opportunity to--refresh myself as well."
"Oh, of course. Sorry. Just give me a few minutes to get the washcloth ready." She ducked into the bathroom again to run the water until it had warmed up sufficiently so that Spock would not be chilled, then grabbed a dry towel to take them out and hand them to him. She got back into bed and waited while Spock refreshed himself, not looking up until he spoke to her.
"I am finished." He gave them back to her and she took them back to the bathroom, then he spoke quietly as she once again approached the bed. "Chris- tine, stop."
She frowned with concern. "Is something wrong?"
"No," he assured her. "I merely wish to look at you."
Christine frowned again, then smiled. "If that's what you want. Is there any special way you want me to stand?"
"No; simply stand normally," Spock told her.
She sighed. "If you say so."
He allowed himself a smile. "Thank you." With that, the Vulcan's deep, sable eyes roamed over her warmly, with deep feeling...then it turned into desire as his gaze lingered on various parts of his wife's body. Part of her enjoyed his appraisal; another was somewhat nervous, if not embarrassed. It wasn't every day she stood naked before a man, even Spock, who was her husband--especially not when she was pregnant. Besides, just looking at him was making her heart pound and a delicious throbbing resume between her legs.
How much she yearned to feel him inside her again...but didn't think she could dare to comment, since he had rarely asked her to do what she was doing now. She almost didn't hear him when he finally said, "Christine, come back to bed. Join me," and again held out his hand to her. When she reached the bed and rejoined him, he took her right hand and raised it to his lips. "I--find myself very much in need of joining with you again, my wife. Would you...object?"
Christine raised one of her husband's hands to her lips and kissed it. "Of course not, Spock. I'm willing if you are. It's just that we haven't made love twice in one night since we first got married--or at least not since I got pregnant."
"I...know it is--unusual for us, but I...still wish it, if you do," he confessed.
"I wish it very much, my love. Don't worry." She cradled his face in her hands for a moment, then locked her arms around his neck and found his lips with hers, gradually deepening the kiss as she showed him how much she desired him. He responded in kind, soon lowering her to the pillow and positioning himself accordingly before proceeding to make passionate love to her once again, making her forget everything but his nearness--including his other relationship.


Part 5

This time, she awakened alone at approximately 0900, just in time for her duty shift at 0930. She turned over in bed and discovered a note on the pillow next to hers...then picked it up and read it, smiling as she did so.


Christine...
Thank you for a most enjoyable night. I will see you Friday evening
when I am off-shift.
Spock

She relived the second time as she showered and washed her hair, shivering and tingling all over again as she thought of how Spock's lips and hands had felt, intimately kissing and caressing her, particularly when he had licked and sucked her breasts, then kissed his way down her body to part her legs and do the same there.
Once she'd come down to earth, she did the same to him, then they had fallen asleep, pleasantly exhausted and aching all over. If he wanted her again Friday, she wasn't sure if she'd be up to it--at least not more than once. Now she remembered the main reason why they didn't make love twice in one night very often. One time usually exhausted her; two usually left her not only exhausted but aching from the intense passions they had shared, particularly at times like that. Best of all, however, was the fact that they would also make him too tired for his other lover...
If his last rendezvous with Kirk had prompted this passionate night with her, all the better, but it was a cinch that it was the last thing the Captain had intended, especially since it would cut into his private time with Spo