The BLTS Archive- A New Beginning
by jmlane (jmlane55@yahoo.com")

---

DISCLAIMER: The Star Trek characters are the property of Paramount
Studios, Inc. The story contents are the creation and property of J.
M. Lane and is copyright (c) 1992 by J. M. Lane.

Originally published in Nivar 3, 1992.

---

Christine cried for hours after Spock left, cursing both herself and
him. Herself for her weakness, being unable to prevent his leaving,
and him for waiting until she couldn't stop him. They had been through
so much together -- how could he just walk out on her as if nothing
had ever happened between them, just when they needed each other most
to recover from the sorrow of losing another baby? And to think he had
had the gall to lecture her about being illogical!

She called McCoy to come and spend some time with her because she
needed to talk, get things off her chest…but less than an hour later,
she began to cry again. Leonard simply sat quietly in the chair beside
her bed; not until she almost screamed with grief did he step in and
give her a tranquilizer shot -- then sat on her bed and held her until
she composed herself.

"Thanks, Leonard; I needed that. Now please tell me that these last
twelve hours have all been a bad dream -- that I haven't lost my baby,
that Spock hasn't walked out on me to go back to Vulcan for the
Kolinahr…and most importantly, that I'll wake up to find myself in bed
with him, in his arms, and feel our baby move inside me."

The Chief Surgeon lifted her face to his, blue eyes tired and sad. "I
wish to God I could, Chris -- but it's real. He's gone."

Fresh tears misted Christine's eyes at his words, but she blinked them
back. "No. No more tears. I have no time to waste on useless crying.
There's got to be a way to get him back. I can't let him go like
this."

"Chris, it might be best, at least for now, to just lie back and let
yourself get well. You can't do anything until then, anyway. Besides,
you both need time apart to get your heads back together…and for God's
sake, don't file for divorce. You'll lose Spock for sure that way,
because something tells me that he doesn't want this separation any
more than you do. I also believe that he's just as torn apart inside
over the loss of your child as you are and needs you, your love and
support, in order to surmount his grief…but is too damn stubborn to
admit it.

"He's never been able to turn to someone in times of crisis, least of
all a wife -- and because of that, he doesn't realize that you need
him right now as much as he needs you. And being a typical pigheaded
Vulcan, he'll put you both through Hell before he finally does realize
it. Until that happens, nothing you say or do is going to do one bit
of good…though there is still one thing in your favor. He hasn't
severed your bond."

Christine's lips twisted wryly. "Probably waiting until I'm stronger,
then he'll come back and drop that bomb on me…but I'll refuse to sever
it -- and it can only be done by mutual consent." She sighed sadly.
"You know, Leonard, the last thing I ever took Spock for is a
coward…especially when he killed those other men in the arena in order
to win me.

"Not to mention the way he so cleverly talked the Pre-Reform Vulcans
out of killing us when they weren't allowed to observe us as we
consummated our bonding. Can our love and marriage have meant so
little to him that he would rather throw it all away instead of doing
his utmost to save it? If that isn't illogical, nothing is!"

"That's the spirit! Now you sound more like the woman I know."

"Leonard, I've made up my mind. I'm going after him once I'm well
enough. We're going to sit down and work things out, even if I have to
drag him back by his elegant ears!"

"Keep thinking like that. Your marriage had far too much going for it
to just throw it away. You have years with him that can't be
erased…not to mention the son you left in the past."

"Which reminds me. All Spock had to do was say so if he didn't want me
to go on that trip to the past. I would have stayed behind. Dammit, he
knows that! But he didn't even try to stop me -- so the loss of our
baby is as much on his shoulders as it is mine."

Christine stretched, then settled back into bed.

"I can't believe Spock would ever let his father's disapproval come
between us, that Sarek's opinion would matter more than our love. I
can't see how Sarek could possibly disapprove when he married a Human
woman, too! And most importantly, Spock loved me. I know he did! He
said nothing mattered but the fact we were together, that he would
always love me, no matter what happened in our lives…so I'll never
believe he just suddenly stopped caring after all we've been to each
other."

McCoy leaned over and kissed her forehead. "Chris, with that attitude,
I feel as sure as anything that you'll not only get him back, but have
more children and a marriage even stronger and happier than that of
his parents. Well, I've got to get back to work, so I'll see you in
the morning. Get some sleep now, dear, and think happy thoughts."

"I'll try."

"Don't try -- do it. That's a medical order!"

The Chief Surgeon's light-hearted tone made Christine smile in spite
of her depression. "Okay, Leonard, if you say so." She then turned on
her left side and fell asleep.

McCoy stood and watched her for a while, then quietly told the lights
to go out as he departed.

---
STARDATE 5834.11, PLANET VULCAN SPOCK, PERSONAL LOG


I AM TRULY ALONE NOW. I HAVE LEFT BEHIND EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE I
HAVE EVER LOVED. THE ONLY SALVATION LEFT TO ME IS THE KOLINAHR
DISCIPLINE, WHICH WILL REMOVE THE SOURCE OF MY PAIN ONCE AND FOR ALL.
I MUST NEVER AGAIN ALLOW MYSELF TO THINK OF THE ENTERPRISE, JIM, THE
DOCTOR OR CHRISTINE. SURAK, FORGIVE ME. I LOVE HER SO -- YET THAT LOVE
HAS DESTROYED US. I MUST THINK OF IT, AND HER, NO LONGER -- SHUT THEM
ALL OUT OF MY MIND AND HEART FOREVER. THINK ONLY OF LOGIC…NOTHING BUT
LOGIC.


The weary traveler's steps seemed weighted down with lead, his heart
as heavy as his feet as he slowly moved closer to his destination --
the stark, forbidding mountain looming ever larger ahead of him. It
seemed an eternity before he reached the summit of Gol, where the
Kolinahr sanctuary stood -- the only thing standing between him and
insanity. As if in slow motion, he knocked on the heavy door with its
equally heavy knocker. A darkly-robed Vulcan elder responded
instantly.

"Who dares to disturb the sanctuary of Gol?" Steely eyes in a
finely-lined face stared sharply through the newcomer.

"It is I, Spock."

"Spock… Thee are the son of Sarek of Vulcan and Amanda of Earth?"

"I am."

"What is thy wish, Spock?"

"I wish to learn the Kolinahr discipline and purge myself of my Human
emotions."

"Are thee aware of all the Kolinahr discipline involves?"

The younger Vulcan's head inclined slightly, his voice dull and
lifeless. "It is my only salvation."

The elder nodded and silently motioned Spock inside, closing the heavy
door behind them and leading him up a flight of narrow, winding stairs
to the lowest level of the stonehewn sanctuary.

---

It took Christine six weeks to recover -- physically -- from the
trauma of her second miscarriage. Emotionally, she wasn't sure if she
would ever be completely whole again… even if she managed to bring
Spock around and have another child. The combination of losing her
third baby and his cold, abrupt departure had torn her heart almost
beyond repair.

At times she felt like an automaton -- as though she had been
programmed to walk, talk, breathe and go through all the motions of
being Human…but if there was one thing she was certain of, it was that
she was going to Vulcan. Going there to find that boneheaded husband
of hers and make him see reason, whatever she had to do! That was one
of the few things she had left to live for, the one thing preventing
her from simply lying down and willing herself to die. She was so
terribly empty, bereft of both her much-loved child and even more
deeply loved husband.

---

Christine wrote Amanda a few days before McCoy released her, telling
her mother-in-law all that had happened the past six months and
requesting permission to see her. If anyone knew her husband's
whereabouts, his mother did. Within a week of her release, Chris was
aboard a Federation long-range shuttle bound for Vulcan. She was
fortunate in that she had been able to obtain the six months medical
rest leave Leonard had prescribed for her. She wanted as much time as
she could get, since it might take months to bring Spock back to his
senses.

Amanda was waiting for her when the shuttle touched down at the
spaceport; the two women embraced and kissed. "It's good to see you
again, Christine," the older woman said. "Though I do wish it were
under happier circumstances."

"So do I, Amanda. Have you arranged a room for me?"

The other woman nodded as the pair headed for a nearby restaurant to
have an early lunch.

"And have you heard anything from Spock?"

Amanda's eyes clouded over but her voice was calm and steady. "He has
been in seclusion at the Gol sanctuary, undergoing the Kolinahr
discipline, for the past six and a half weeks."

"Do you know how to get there?"

Amanda frowned and shook her head. "Sarek is the only one who knows
besides Spock -- in our family, that is."

"Wouldn't your home computers have that information in their memory
banks?"

Amanda nodded. "But I have no idea how to gain access to it. Sarek and
Spock change the access codes to their personal computers at random."

Christine smiled after taking a swallow of iced herbal tea. "Luckily,
I happen to know Spock's access code. I am also familiar with the
operation of his personal computer," she said between bites of salad.
"That is, provided he hasn't already changed the code and put the
information under voice-print or something."

"Not as far as I know…but you'd still need to come to the house to get
it."

"No problem," came the confident announcement.

"I'm afraid there is. Sarek has developed a habit of coming home
unexpectedly."

"In that case, we'll have to plan our strategy very carefully. I've
got a husband to win back and a marriage to patch back together."

---

After finishing their meal, the women moved surreptitiously toward
Amanda's ground-car, driving to the outskirts of ShiKahr and the large
estate where Spock's parents lived. Christine waited in the car until
Amanda signaled that it was safe to come in, motioning her
daughter-in-law inside and leading her through the house to Spock's
old room…but Chris was too anxious to reach the computer to take note
of her surroundings.

"This is the room Spock uses while visiting us. Would you like me to
come in with you?"

"No, I should be fine. All I need to do is get some information from
the computer."

"Okay then, I'll just go about my normal day-to-day work. Let me know
when you're done."

Christine smiled, nodded and disappeared behind the door of Spock's
room. She forced herself to think only of the business at hand, not
looking at the decor of the room where Spock had spent much of his
early life and now only used on infrequent visits home. It was fairly
easy to log the computer on, though she experienced a few anxious
moments, certain that Spock had placed the information she sought
under voice-print and/or retina scan, in which case she'd be out of
luck -- to put it mildly…then the computer recognized Spock's access
code.

Chris breathed a sigh of relief when the computer's pleasant feminine
voice said, "Computer on. What information do you wish?"

"I require detailed directions to the Gol sanctuary."

The computer seemed to hesitate for a moment, then said, "Working."
Within moments, Christine held a detailed printout of directions to
the sanctuary where her errant husband was in seclusion in her hands.
After folding the printout carefully, she placed it in her jacket
pocket and patted the latter, smiling with satisfaction. Only after
accomplishing her appointed task did Christine take a look around,
drinking in everything she could before opening the door and heading
back down the hall to the living room. Amanda was working at her desk,
raising her head when the younger woman made her presence known.

"Did you get what you wanted?"

"I sure did -- but I'd better go now."

Amanda accompanied her daughter-in-law to the ground-car; the women
again shared an embrace. "I packed a backpack for you when you first
contacted me, and have kept it in readiness for your arrival. It's in
the back seat. I suspected that you might have something like
following Spock in mind. Everything you need is in it. Good luck,
dear."

"Thanks. I'm going to need it."

---

Christine parked the ground-car in a safe place upon arriving at the
closest point a motorized vehicle could come to the isolated mountain
sanctuary before setting out on the day's hike still before her. She
had brought her medikit as a precaution, armed with several doses of
tri-ox compound which would partially compensate for the heat and help
her breathe in the thin air.

She was also grateful that Amanda had packed the survival gear so
thoroughly, thus ensuring that she, Christine, would be well prepared
for any emergency which might arise -- up to and including an attack
by the Vulcan predator, the le-matya, or the carnivorous d'mallu plant
Spock had told her about and pointed out to her during their six-year
sojourn on the early version of his home planet.

She was also careful to take frequent rest stops and drink a lot,
since the heat was at least a third more intense than even the hottest
summer day she had known on Earth as a young girl…and if she
remembered correctly, it was still only early spring here on Vulcan.

Even in her light clothing, wide-brimmed hat with her hair piled on
top of her head, the collar of the blouse turned up to help prevent
sunburn on the back of her neck, Christine perspired profusely. Her
skin was so sensitive that even with sun-block, she often ended up
looking like a lobster unless she took pains to stay out of the sun as
much as possible.

Unfortunately Chris soon realized that there wasn't much in the desert
which cast enough of a shadow for her to get completely in the
shade…so she made the most of what shade there was, grateful for it
wherever she happened to find it. Thank Heaven she never met a le-
matya or the carnivorous d'mallu plant; she was having enough
difficulty without them.

About halfway to her destination, she began to get lonesome for the
sound of another voice, fervently wishing that she had thought to
bring her small tape deck and some tapes with her -- or better yet,
had Amanda accompany her…though that would have been "highly
illogical," as Spock would say. She had enough to worry about just
keeping herself going without having a companion, especially one older
than she, so she just kept her mind busy by concentrating on what she
planned to say to Spock when, or if, she managed to see him.

---

Christine was forced to stop when it got dark, since Amanda had
somehow forgotten to include a flashlight with the rest of the
survival gear. She eventually set up camp under an overhang of rock,
determined to depart as early as possible to beat the worst of the
heat.

An hour after settling into her sleeping bag, she was startled awake
by a loud noise about fifteen meters from her position. She sat bolt
upright, phaser in hand. She may have been married to a Vulcan, but
was still Human and thus prepared to defend herself. Be that as it
may, she could never have harmed another being unless her own life --
or that of Spock -- was being threatened. In addition, the phaser was
set on stun, so the worst that could happen was that the intruder
would be unconscious for a short time.

"Who's there?" she called out. "Answer me or I shoot!"

"Hold your fire," came a deep, familiar voice from out of the
darkness.

Chris was totally flabbergasted at the identity of the intruder. She
had had no inkling that Spock was anywhere nearby. He must have sealed
off the bond or something to keep her (or was it his?) thoughts and
feelings from interfering in his Kolinahr discipline.

She lowered the phaser, satisfied as to her safety. "Spock!" she
exclaimed as he walked into the light.

"Christine." His voice was quiet but cold as he sat down a few feet
from her. "What are you doing here?"

"I came for you. What are you doing out here?"

Spock sighed exasperatedly. "Christine, you are wasting your time. My
mind is made up. What I am doing is the most logical course of action
for both of us."

"That's a matter of opinion. I have no intention of letting you go
without one hell of a fight! We've been through too much together to
simply throw it all away at this late date. Especially when we still
love each other."

The Vulcan's reply was icy. "Love is not the Vulcan way. It is
illogical."

Christine almost snorted. "Bullshit. Pull that 'love is illogi cal'
bit with someone who doesn't know you as well as I do. I'm your wife,
and I intend to remain so, whatever you may try to do to sabotage our
marriage!"

"Christine, you must understand. It is over between us. Permanently.
Whatever chance we might have had died with our baby."

"That reminds me. You have a colossal nerve calling me illogical when
you didn't lift a finger to keep me from going on that trip where I
had that beating which caused me to lose the baby. As far as I'm
concerned, it's as much your fault as it is mine. You had only to say
the word and I would have stayed behind!"

"You were so anxious to see how our son had fared that I saw no point
in trying to refuse you, since you would have found a way to go in
spite of my concern for your safety and that our unborn child."

His voice was calm and matter-of-fact ... and he was right, so she
didn't argue. "All right, I won't dispute you there--but you still
haven't answered my first question. What are you doing out here? I
thought you said you were going into seclusion."

"I was ... but soon realized that there was something I had forgotten
to do. Therefore, I was coming to see you about severing our bond.
Several weeks have now passed, so I am certain that you are strong
enough to endure it. The last thing I expected was to find you out
here, though I really should have guessed that you would do something
like this. It only reinforces my earlier conviction, that what I am
doing is the best course of action--one which will spare us any
further pain."

"And how do you think I've felt these last six and a half weeks
without you? Don't you think you caused me pain by walking out on me
right after I lost the baby, just when I needed you most?"

Spock bowed his head, eyes closing in deep pain. "Christine, I am
deeply sorry for any pain I have caused you, and wish to assure you
that it hurt me just as much as it did you. However, I believed it to
be the best thing for both of us." His voice was so quiet that Chris
might have missed his words had she not been listening closely.

"Better than staying together? Better than talking things out and
doing our utmost to pick up the pieces and start again? Oh, yes--as
far as your request is concerned, you can damn well forget it. The
only way you're ever going to sever our bond is if you kill me right
here and now!"

"Christine, your stubbornness will avail you nothing. I have no
intention of changing my mind."

"I figured you'd probably be difficult ... but one thing is certain.
I'm not leaving this planet without you!"

"Do my parents know you're here?" he asked, changing the subject.

"Your mother does, yes. I have a room in town that she got for me."

"How long have you been planetside?"

"Three days. Dr. McCoy released me ten days ago."

"Then it is even more illogical for you to be out here."

"For Heaven's sake, Spock, what do you think I am, porcelain? I have
survival training--and even if I didn't, my medical skills could get
me this far." He was silent, so she knew she had him. "And one other
thing. Just what does your father have against me that he couldn't
even acknowledge our marriage or speak to me when your mother called?"

"I was unaware of any disapproval of you on his part. If I remember
correctly, their shuttle was due to depart in a few moments. I would
surmise that he was simply in a hurry to make their flight."

"How long does it take to say hello?" she threw back. "A few seconds.
Could he have been in so much of a hurry that he couldn't spare ten
seconds to say hello?" Spock seemed at a loss for words, so she
continued. "I also believe that it was the lack of your father's
blessing that made you walk out on our marriage. Spock, I can't
believe that you would actually consider his opinion more important
than our love. Not when you told me that nothing mattered but the fact
we were together--and your mother is as Human as I am, so I can't see
him disapproving of me on that score. The impression I got was that
you didn't consider our marriage worth saving without your father's
blessing, so you walked away rather than sit down with me and work
things out. I could understand your doing what you're doing if our
marriage and life together had been lousy, but we were so happy -- had
so much going for us. I had no idea you were so much of a coward that
you'd sooner walk away instead of going your utmost to patch things up
so we could start again."

Spock lifted his head to face her; in the glow of the fire, Christine
could see his eyes and discern the depth of the love he still felt for
her.

She was sure he would move toward her, but he simply said, "Christine,
come here, please." It was all she could do to walk over and seat
herself beside him. "Move closer."

She did so, surprised to feel his arms go around her and pull her
gently but closely to him. She rested her head on his chest; for an
interminable time the couple sat quietly in each other's arms in front
of the small campfire. The only other move he made was to reach up to
stroke her hair before entwining his fingers at her waist again.

"Very well, Christine. We shall try again--for a time--since you feel
so strongly about it. It would be illogical not to at least try to
make things right again ... but if they do not work out, you must
allow me to sever our bond and dissolve our marriage so that we may go
our separate ways, live separate lives."

The very thought was abhorrent, painful, to her, but Chris knew she
had to promise or else she risked his getting up and walking away from
her right here and now. "Yes."

The next thing she knew, Spock was draping a heavy blanket around the
two of them, snuggling her even closer to his warmth for a few moments
to lie on her sleeping bag. She expected him to kiss her, but all he
did was brush the top of her head with his lips.

"Sleep now, my wife. We still have a great distance to travel before
reaching home, and will need all our strength to accomplish it."

"Not as great as you think. I have a ground-car parked 12 hours' hike
away," Christine replied before falling asleep.

The Vulcan's embrace tightened as he raised an approving eyebrow at
his wife's unexpected display of logic. Perhaps they could work things
out between them after all!

---

Christine lay in her husband's arms with her eyes closed, feeling warm
and content as she marveled at her success so far. How she had missed
this, hungered for the feel of Spock's body close to hers once again!
Now that she had him back (albeit on a trial basis), perhaps they
would conceive another child ... and this time make sure nothing
happened to make her lose it, even if it meant both of them retiring
from Starfleet service.

She hoped it wouldn't come to that, but if it did, their happiness and
continued relationship mattered far more than any career she might
have. Of course, if Spock wished to remain in Starfleet, she could not
refuse him, but for the moment, Chris intended to take things as they
came and hope for the best.

It had taken all her willpower to keep her hands and lips off him. It
had been so long since Spock had kissed her or made love to her ...
but she sensed that he wasn't ready to resume their previous
intimacies just yet. Even so, Christine was sure Spock wanted it as
much as she, but could not bring himself to do it until some of the
scars of their recent tragedy were less fresh in their minds and
hearts.

Leonard had assured her that her body was completely recovered from
the miscarriage and that she could resume lovemaking whenever she
wished (provided she could talk Spock around), so there was no problem
there. Their wounds were more emotional than physical, and emotional
wounds always took longer to heal than physical ones. She would simply
have to be patient, bide her time until he was ready to join with her
again. God knew it would be difficult; she had already waited so
long...

Christine wanted so very much to feel Spock's hands and lips caressing
her, then his hot velvet hardness inside her again--but if waiting
meant that they would stay together, remain husband and wife, she
would have to dredge up the strength from somewhere to remain apart
from him. In the meantime, all that mattered was having him close to
her, in her arms once again.

---

Amanda heard Sarek return home an hour after Christine's departure,
her anger building with every passing moment. Damn him, he had no
right to destroy Spock's marriage--their son's only chance for
happiness--by withholding his blessing and approval! She had tried in
vain to get him to say a word to Christine when she had called their
daughter-in-law to congratulate her on her marriage to their son.
Amanda still couldn't understand why Sarek had refused, since she had
been certain her husband would be pleased to learn that Spock had also
found a Human wife and was happy with her--but he certainly didn't act
pleased, despite his claims to the contrary. There had to be something
he wasn't telling her, but she was unable to learn what. He had
immediately erected mental shields to keep his thoughts secret from
her.

Damn, but he could be maddening sometimes! Surely Sarek knew how
important his approval was to Spock ... so much so that if it was
withheld, Spock would assume he had made a mistake in marrying
Christine and act accordingly--even if it meant breaking both their
hearts. Amanda would never forget the profound sorrow which had
shadowed her son's eyes when he had arrived six and a half weeks
previously--alone--and she had asked about Christine.

It was obvious that Spock was still deeply in love with his wife and
it was tearing him apart to be separated from her. That brought to
mind an identical look in Christine's eyes at the mention of her
husband. If only for that reason alone, Amanda had no intention of
allowing them to break up ... not if it was within her power to
prevent it!

Amanda was waiting by the door when Sarek walked in. He raised a
perplexed eyebrow at the grim look on his wife's face even as his
right hand automatically raised, customary fingers extended to cross
with hers. He was even more perplexed when she did not raise her own
hand, particularly when he sensed her hostility. At the best of times,
it was almost impossible for Sarek to fathom his wife's Human
peculiarities, even as much as he loved her--and he had no idea what
he had done to merit such anger from her.

"Sarek, I want to talk to you."

"Certainly, my wife. What about?"

"Spock and Christine."

Sarek's brows rose in shock. "Why? What concerns you about them?"

"Your treatment of them--or more accurately, your reaction to Spock's
announcement of their marriage."

"There is something you are not telling me, my wife. Please
elaborate."

"They're separated."

"What does that have to do with me?"

"They're apart because of you." Amanda almost spat the words at him,
angrier than he had ever seen her.

"I do not understand."

"Like hell, you don't! Damn it, Sarek, why did you withhold your
blessing of Spock's marriage from him? You know how important your
approval is to him! Because of you, Spock has gone into seclusion and
is undergoing the Kolinahr discipline ... and Christine has come after
recovering from her second miscarriage, planning to stay until--or if
--she has a chance to talk to him and see if they can't work things
out. Be that as it may, I doubt she'll be able to do it without your
blessing ... especially if you don't make it convincing. I believe
what happened is that Spock assumed he had made a mistake in marrying
Christine when you withheld your blessing, so he has acted
accordingly--using the loss of their child as an excuse to leave her.
So if you would care to enlighten me, I would like to know just what
you have against her that you would withhold your blessing."

"My wife, I have nothing whatsoever 'against' Christine. As I told you
before, I am very pleased that our son has made such a logical
choice."

"Then why couldn't you have told him that?"

"Amanda, by now Spock should have the ability to sense whether or not
I approve of something he has done."

"But he obviously doesn't--at least not in this case. Otherwise, he
and Christine would still be together."

"My wife, if Spock truly loves Christine, nothing could come between
them--least of all my so-called 'disapproval.' When a Vulcan is
married, their partner has top priority ... everything and everyone
else comes second. That is why we have remained happy together these
many years. However, it would seem that our son has not yet learned
that ... so it is up to Christine, his wife, to enlighten him. If she
cannot, then perhaps it is for the best that they are separated, for
she could only cause him more pain."

"How can you say that? You haven't seen the look in her eyes when she
speaks of him! Sarek, she still loves him ... and I know he still
loves her. I saw it in his eyes."

"My wife, you are a hopeless romantic."

Amanda shook her head in affectionate exasperation. "I swear, Sarek,
if I didn't love you so much, I'd hate you! You damn Vulcans are so
arrogantly sure of yourselves, so absolutely certain that you're right
and everyone else is wrong."

"If that happens to be the case, it is not our fault."

"Of course not. It never is," Amanda retorted dryly even as she sighed
and raised her two fingers to cross with those of her husband.

"Where are Spock and Christine at the moment?"

"Hopefully somewhere between here and Gol. Christine took my
ground-car, so it shouldn't take as long for them to get back as it
would if they were coming back on foot."

"Will they be staying with us?"

"Unlikely. They're going to need all the privacy they can get in order
to work out their differences properly--if you know what I mean."
Amanda gave Sarek a sly wink, prompting him to lift astonished
eyebrows. "They wouldn't get any here, so I reserved a suite for her
in town--or should I say 'them'? I would also surmise that we had
better not expect to see much of them, especially if you facilitate
matters by telling them that you do indeed approve of their marriage
instead of keeping them hanging."

"I will inform them at the first opportunity. Will that please you?"

"It is more important that it please them, my husband." Amanda again
winked at her husband. "Now allow me to tell you something you can do
to please me immensely."

Sarek raised an amused eyebrow. "You are insatiable."

"Especially where you're concerned."

"If Christine behaves like this with our son, it is no wonder that he
feels as he does about her."

"No more shop talk. Come with me." Amanda smiled seductively and held
out her hand. Sarek's hand met hers, their fingers intricately
entwining as they walked down the hall to the master bedroom,
disappearing behind the door to share a romantic night of their own.

---

The younger couple reached the cleverly concealed ground-car after a
long hike from their overnight campsite, depositing their jackets and
backpacks in the rear seat. Christine's skin tingled

through her thin blouse at the touch of her husband's fingers on her
back as he helped her into the passenger seat. It was all she could do
not to throw herself into his arms. Chris finally gritted her teeth
and stiffened her back, determined not to touch him, no matter how
much she wanted to.

But I'd better have him soon, she told herself, or else I won't be
gentle with him when we finally do get together!

Spock felt it through their bond, reaching for her hand and gently
squeezing it. "Patience, my wife. Everything comes to she who waits."

I certainly hope so! Christine thought as she returned his squeeze and
settled into the contoured seat, managing to content herself with
watching her husband's profile and graceful -- even

sensuous -- movements as he aimed the sleek vehicle in the direction
of ShiKahr, some 150 kilometers from their position.

---

James T. Kirk leaned back in his contoured chair, located in the
spacious living room of his suburban San Francisco apartment, enjoying
a leisurely drink of Antarean brandy with close friend, Dr. Leonard
"Bones" McCoy.

"So, Bones, what have you heard from Christine lately? I haven't seen
her since before her second miscarriage."

"Oh, she's completely recovered from that, Jim," the Doctor said with
a smile after taking a swallow of his drink. "Now she's gone to Vulcan
-- "

Kirk nearly jumped out of his chair. "What? You're kidding! When did
she go there?"

"A week after I released her. She said she wasn't letting Spock go
without a fight."

Jim whistled. "She's got her work cut out for her, that's for sure.
Spock can be very stubborn when he chooses to be -- the original
immovable object."

"For every immovable object, there's an irresistible force -- and I
believe that Chris intends to be that irresistible force where Spock
is concerned. She's every bit as stubborn as he is, if not more

so, when she's really serious about something -- or someone."

The Captain chuckled. "They certainly make a perfect pair, don't they?
Spock's determined to walk away and Christine's equally determined to
get him back."

McCoy gave his friend and superior a sly wink. "If I know Chris, she's
already got him back."

"Now, Bones, aren't you being just a tad optimistic? After all, she's
only been gone a couple of weeks. I think that's expecting too much,
even of her."

The Chief Surgeon shook his head with a grin.

"You didn't see the look in her eyes when she told me she intended to
go to Vulcan and bring him back, even if it meant dragging him back by
the ears! Not even someone as pigheaded as our

Vulcan friend could resist that lady for long -- especially not when
they're still in love with each other."

"For both their sakes, I hope so, Bones. I never could figure out how
Spock could have walked away from her just when they needed each other
most."

"Spock's used to just walking away, you know that. It wasn't until
Chris came along that he ever knew a woman who would come after him. A
woman every bit as pigheaded as he is who's determined to keep him
with her, whatever it takes -- and it's shocked the hell out of him,
though I doubt he'll ever admit it. Especially when he wants everyone
to think that nothing could ever make an impression on him. Least of
all a woman!"

"Especially if that woman is Christine Chapel," Kirk laughed before
downing the rest of his brandy and holding out the empty glass to the
Doctor for a refill. "Here's to our friends' reconciliation. Fill 'er
up, Bones."

---

In the meantime, Amanda's sleek navy blue ground-car -- carrying
Spock, Christine and their belongings -- pulled up in front of the
ShiKahr hotel where the latter was registered. An attendant moved to
get behind the wheel and park the car for them once they had retrieved
their possessions. The attractive Vulcan woman serving as clerk at the
registration desk saluted Chris before handing her a holovid cassette
when the couple reached her.

"Good morning, Dr. Chapel. Here is a message for you. The caller
requested that you return her call at the earliest opportunity."

"Thank you, T'Pala. I shall do so."

The other woman raised an eyebrow upon seeing Spock standing next to
his wife, but quickly recovered. "Will you be checking in today, sir?"

"Not today. I am merely a friend of Dr. Chapel's come to visit her."

T'Pala's eyes widened when she saw Spock join Christine in the
transporter booth, which automatically activated once a guest stepped
inside -- either alone or with a companion -- then beamed the
occupants directly into the room.

"What a cool liar you are, Spock," Christine laughed upon fully
materializing. "'Friend', indeed!"

The Vulcan raised an indignant eyebrow. "It is no lie. I am here
simply to visit you."

Chris smiled wickedly as she turned her back on him and inserted the
holovid cartridge into the nearby video terminal. A situation which I
intend to change very soon, she thought as she turned the machine on.

Amanda's beautiful but care-worn face appeared on the small
viewscreen, her voice warm and affectionate as she greeted her
daughter-in-law. "Hello, Christine. How are you, my dear? I hope
you've been able to contact Spock and have a long talk with him. I
pray that the two of you will be able to save your marriage because I
know you still love one another."

Spock again raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

"Please contact me as soon as you can and let me know what has
happened with you two, if anything. I will be waiting to hear from
you, dear. Farewell."

Spock's lips twisted wryly as he sighed in affectionate exasperation.
"I fear that Mother is an incurable romantic."

"What's wrong with that? Life would be pretty dull without romance to
liven it up."

The Vulcan once again raised an eyebrow at his wife, but did not
argue.

Christine sat down at the computer and said, "I wish to contact the
Lady Amanda, wife of Ambassador Sarek."

"One moment," the computer replied.

Amanda appeared soon afterward, her smile widening upon seeing her
daughter-in-law. "Hello, my dear. I'm so glad to hear back from you so
soon. Did you just get in? And is you-know-who with you?"

Christine laughed. "Just a few minutes ago -- and yes, Spock is here.
Would you like to talk to him?"

"For a minute or two, if you don't mind."

"Of course not. Spock?"

He moved to the terminal and waited.

"Hello, Spock," Amanda said.

"Mother."

"Are you all right, my son? I have been very concerned about you."

"I am well, Mother -- and I trust you and my father are the same."

"That reminds me. Your father wishes to speak with you a moment."

"Indeed?"

The next face and voice were Sarek's. "My son, I must speak with you
and Christine on a very important matter."

"Yes, Father?"

"I fear that I have been most remiss in offering my congratulations
and bestowing my official blessing on your marriage. I meant to do so
when I met with you 6.8 weeks ago, but my mind was occupied with the
speech I was to make to the High Council of Altair Six. So I hope you
and Christine will accept my somewhat belated but nonetheless sincere
wishes for a long and happy married life such as your mother and I
have known."

They then saw Sarek raise a surprised eyebrow and flinch (Chris
suspected that Amanda had poked him in the ribs), but the Vulcan
Ambassador did not break the continuity of his conversation with his
son and daughter-in-law.

"Please accept my apologies for any difficulties my unintentional
oversight may have caused you. It is my hope that you will both make
every effort to work them out and remain married. Remember, my son,
Vulcans marry for life."

Spock raised a surprised eyebrow, but Christine felt his pleasure at
learning that his father did indeed approve of their marriage and had
at last bestowed his long-awaited blessing upon it. She smiled at her
husband as the couple crossed the customary extended fingers; the
elder Vulcan gave them a half-smile in return.

"I must return to my work now, my son, but wished to clear up any
misunderstandings and tell you that I think you have made a most
logical choice of bride. I am certain that Christine will prove a fine
wife and excellent mother for any future offspring the two of you may
have -- and if only for your mother's sake, I hope that you do indeed
plan to have more children, for she has confided to me her longing for
more grandchildren. In which case, it would behoove you both to do
your utmost to grant her that wish as soon as possible." He saluted
them; the younger pair returned it. "Farewell, my children."

This time two pairs of brows shot up, but they simply replied, "Live
long and prosper, my father."

Sarek then moved out of visual range and Amanda reappeared. "Well,
Spock, what did you think of that?"

"It is something of a surprise, Mother, but we are very pleased -- and
assure you that we will do our best to 'iron out' our difficulties and
eventually grant you your wish."

"I am happy to hear that, my son. Well, I must also return to my work,
so I'll let you go now and talk with you both later. Farewell, Spock.
Farewell, Christine."

"Goodbye, Mother."

"Amanda."

After the screen went dark, Chris gave her husband a triumphant smile.
"Well, are you satisfied now?"

Spock raised a perplexed eyebrow. "Satisfied? With what, my wife?"

"Your father has officially blessed our marriage. Now do you consider
it worth saving?"

The Vulcan's eyes widened; he seemed momentarily at a loss for words.

"I now believe it would be logical for us to get started on granting
your mother's wish as soon as possible. After all, you don't want to
disappoint your parents, do you?"

Spock frowned. "Christine, do not attempt to pressure me. I am not yet
ready to join with you again. If our reconciliation is to be
successful, it must be accomplished in a logical manner -- and only
when I am ready."

"Spock, all I ask is a chance to prove that our marriage can work.
Your parents have expressed their confidence that we can make it work,
and you know that I'm sure we can. All that remains is your opinion of
our chances."

"My wife, I have already stated that we will try. That is all I am
promising for now."

"I suppose that's the best I can expect -- and what better time to
start trying than now?" With that, Christine doused the lights and
moved into her husband's arms for a long-awaited, mutually- desired
kiss -- as well as anything else the pair of them decided to do!

---

In the morning Spock was gone, but Christine was confident he would
soon return as she relived the deliciously romantic night they had
shared. They had not made love, but did indulge in some very exciting
love play. So exciting, in fact, that both had been obliged to
exercise all their control in order not to take it to its so-called
"logical" conclusion. But Chris could be patient, for she knew it was
only a matter of time. She stretched languorously on the unmade bed in
her hotel suite, feeling warm, content and deliciously lazy. Had she
been a cat, she would have been purring. At that

moment, her bedside intercom buzzed.

"Dr. Chapel, you have a visitor," T'Pala reported.

"Who is it, T'Pala?"

"I believe it is the Lady Amanda."

"Send her up."

The older woman materialized in the room moments later; Christine rose
from her bed to embrace her mother-in-law.

"Christine."

"Amanda."

"Well, what happened?"Amanda blurted out before she could stop
herself.

The younger woman's eyebrows rose, then she laughed. "Oh, you mean
with Spock?" she asked innocently.

"For Heaven's sake, Christine! Of course I mean with Spock! Did you
two--? Well, you know..."

"You mean, did we make love? No. Spock said he wasn't ready to resume
that yet--but we did indulge in some very exciting love play. So
exciting, in fact, that it was all we could do to stop."

The older woman was pleased, if somewhat disappointed--but managed a
smile.

"Well, at least it's a step in the right direction. So am I to assume
from what you say that it's only a matter of time until you do make
love?"

Christine blushed but nodded.

"Then I hope we may soon hear that you are once again pregnant--and
that you'll take steps to make sure you don't lose the baby this
time."

"We'll make love as soon as Spock indicates to me that he's ready.
Until then, I have no intention of forcing the issue. I came far too
close to losing him forever to feel that I can afford to take chances.
It's his ball game, and I'm playing by his rules. When we do make
love, I'll let you know--and you'll be the first to know--after Spock,
that is--when I'm pregnant again. And rest assured, dear
mother-in-law, that I have every intention of bringing our next baby
to term!"

Christine patted her belly to prove her point and indicate her fervent
desire to once again feel her husband's child move and grow within her
body.

"Well, I'm certainly glad to hear that. What time is it now, dear?"

Amanda gasped in shock when she learned. "Oh, my lord! It's that late
already? I've got to go! I'm meeting Sarek at 1230. I'll talk to you
more later. Goodbye, my dear."

The two women exchanged a quick kiss, then Amanda stepped into the
transporter booth to the left of the door and was gone after
admonishing her daughter-in-law not to forget her promise. Christine
smiled and assured her she wouldn't, then turned toward her bathroom
and indulged in a long, luxurious shower before ordering a large
lunch. She dined leisurely while catching up on the latest news from
the Federation's interstellar holo-comlink serving Earth, Vulcan and
all other Federation planets--very sophisticated devices which had
only recently been installed in the rooms of this, ShiKahr's finest
hotel.

She only intended to remain as long as she absolutely had to--until
she could feel certain that she and Spock were reunited for good. In
the meantime, she planned to have him meet her here for

private discussions, then perhaps--with luck--eventually for the
purpose of making love and conceiving another child. She had felt the
lack of both most keenly the past several weeks.

Christine again smiled as she finished her meal, dreaming of once
again making love with her beloved and bearing him another child. For
the time being, however, she intended to take things as they came and
make the most of any opportunity to strengthen their renewed
relationship which happened to present itself--for she had no
intention of letting him slip through her fingers--and would see to it
that he never wanted to leave her ever again!

Two nights later, the pair spent another night enjoying various forms
of love play, but as before, no sexual union occurred. Even as
exciting as it was, Christine was ready to climb the wall because she
wanted to feel Spock inside her again, feel his lips and hands on her
bare skin... If he made her wait a third time, she'd literally go
crazy!

---

The next afternoon around 1200, Spock asked to see Christine, saying
he had something very important to say to her. Christine had just
finished a shower and was preparing to dress when he beamed up to the
suite at 1600. His brows shot up upon seeing her in a filmy blue
peignoir with her hair wrapped turban-style in a towel. The Vulcan's
sensitive nose caught the intoxicating smell of his wife's rose-musk
perfume as he felt the heat radiating from her body. He felt desire
stir inside his own body as he recalled other times similar to this in
the early days of their marriage. She had accepted his statement that
he was not yet ready to resume making love with her, but Spock was
unsure whether or not he could make himself abide by its restrictions
... for he had missed it, and her, so much.

"Spock! Aren't you early? I thought I had time to take a shower and
fix my hair before you came. You said you were coming at 1600."

"Affirmative. And if I am not mistaken, it is now ten minutes and ten
seconds past that hour."

Christine looked at the chronometer, not at all surprised to see that
he was right. "So it is. I lost track of time. Did you want to go
somewhere? If so, I need a few minutes to get ready."

His reply was quiet. "That will not be necessary. I would prefer that
we remain here."

The timbre of her husband's voice reminded Chris of the time they had
been reunited after Kirk had been forced to blow up a ship Spock was
believed to have been on. The Captain had come to her and explained
the situation, that Spock was most likely dead unless he and his
landing party had been on the planet instead of the doomed ship.
Christine had never believed he was dead, for their bond had remained
intact throughout. She would have felt it if he had died; the bond
would have been instantly severed. She couldn't help smiling at the
memory of their joyous reunion.

Spock raised an amused eyebrow as he felt her thoughts. "Is that all
you ever think about?"

"When one has become accustomed to regular lovemaking, then has to do
without it, it's to be expected. For Heaven's sake, Spock, have you
any idea how much I've missed you, missed it? My God, I'm only--"

He held up a hand to stop her. "I see your point, my wife ... and must
confess that it has been very much on my mind these last few days."

Her eyes widened. "Are you saying that you're now willing for us
to--?"

Her husband stepped closer and reached to caress her cheek. "I believe
I said that."

"Well, it's about time! I think I'd have literally gone crazy if I'd
had to endure a third night without making love."

"I assure you, it was just as difficult for me to wait as it was for
you ... and allow me to remind you that I have not had as much
practice at expressing my deepest feelings."

"I can remember a time when you wouldn't admit to having any feelings,
especially not to me--though I can understand why, considering your
upbringing. But there's nothing wrong with expressing your deepest
feelings to someone who loves you, particularly if you're bonded and
married to them."

"Have I not always done my utmost to express my deepest feelings
toward you?"

"Most of the time, yesàthough it sometimes seemed that you retreated
behind your well-known wall of logic, as you did three months ago. I
had a terribly hard time of it because of that."

Spock put a finger on his wife's lips, which she promptly kissed.
"That is all behind us now--and may I say that you talk entirely too
much, my wife. There is a time for talk and a time for

silence ... and that time is now."

Christine lifted her chin to face her husband, his bent finger holding
it up as he bent his head and found her lips with his.

---

They did everything that had been denied them for eight long weeks --
and then some. To Christine, it was like coming home again from an
extended journey to once again feel Spock's hands, lips and tongue
exploring her body as well as knowing every inch of his body once
again.

She had even been able to convince him to try rear-entry intercourse
... and feeling him inside her that way was every bit as pleasurable
as the regular way. It didn't seem like they would ever get
enough of each other; they almost literally devoured each other.

He didn't allow her to speak for a long time, silencing her with
passionate kisses whenever she made the attempt. And when she had at
last taken him into her mouth, he had tasted every bit as delicious as
she remembered -- the flood of liquid passion from his body like the
nectar of a flower. Best of all, however, was when he had done it to
her... After a dozen or so climaxes between them, she had lost count,
but really didn't care. All that mattered was that they were together
again. It wasn't until several hours later that the lovers finally
came back to earth, sated for the moment, arms and legs intricately
entwined, their bodies close and smelling of their passionate
lovemaking. Christine woke up with her face buried in her husband's
neck, nuzzling it warmly to make him shiver.

"Oh, Spock, my love. You have no idea how I've missed being with you
like this, hungered for the feel of you inside me again."

He smiled and trailed kisses down her throat and neck. "Just as I have
missed feeling you in my arms, your warmth all around me."

"Please tell me that I'll never again be without you, be without this.
I don't think I could stand it." Christine smiled and sighed
contentedly upon feeling Spock's answer in her mind. Her head was

cradled on his shoulder as her left hand rested on his upper right
abdomen, directly over his heart, where she could feel it beating. She
began to lightly stroke his warm, bare skin with her fingers,
eventually traveling up his torso to run them through his dark chest
hair, her lips soon tracing the path her fingers had made.

"I declare, Spock, your body just seems to grow more beautiful to me
every time we make love."

"You are 'beautiful', my wife. I am 'handsome'."

"Whatever. Means the same thing ... and that's what counts. Which
reminds me -- are you sure you haven't had anyone else? I swear, your
technique only seems to improve every time we're together."

"Indeed not. There were no opportunities for sexual intimacy at the
Gol sanctuary, and I was there for 6.57 weeks before you arrived."

Christine laughed a moment later; Spock asked what she found so
amusing.

"Can you imagine what T'Pala must think of your visiting me so often?
Three times in one week! I can still see the look on her face when she
called me for breakfast the morning after the first night you spent
with me. I could tell she wanted to ask if you were still with me. I
also believe she is seriously considering charging you for those
nights. Last night makes the third ... and you know how expensive this
place is."

"Are you asking me to move in with you?"

"I wouldn't object if you wanted to, but am not trying to pressure you
or demand that you do so. It's your decision."

He gave her a half-smile before kissing the top of her head. "I will
consider it. In the meantime, I would like very much to get started on
granting Mother's wish -- provided that you do not disapprove."

Christine smiled and shook her head; after returning the smile, Spock
proceeded to once again turn his wife beneath him. Their coming
together was passionate but infinitely loving and healing, each kiss
and caress a soothing balm which healed every hurt they had ever
inflicted on each other. Nothing before this time was important; all
that mattered was here and now.

---

Spock eventually found it necessary to send a message to the Head
Elder at the Gol sanctuary, explaining that he had changed his mind
and would not be returning. He had originally come because of
difficulties in his marriage to a Human woman -- but chose to stay
with her now that those differences had been resolved ... and engage
in what Humans referred to as a "second honeymoon." There was no
reply, nor did he expect one. No doubt the Elders considered his
decision totally illogical, but what counted was that they accepted
it.

---

Amanda dropped by about 1330 the following afternoon. Christine
decided to answer her question before it was voiced; the older woman's
brows rose in a most Vulcan manner, but her voice betrayed no
surprise.

"That's wonderful, dear. Do you think you might be pregnant yet?"

"It's too soon to tell, but I wouldn't mind if I was."

"Has Spock been staying here with you?"

"Three times this week ... but we didn't make love until last night."

"I can imagine how difficult it must have been to wait after having
already waited two months."

"Tell me about it. Eight weeks without him was eight weeks too long!"

"Has there been any mention of his moving in with you?"

"I asked; he said he would consider it. I have to accept whatever he
decides, but it wouldn't surprise me if he did move in."

"At least you'd be living as man and wife again ... and would it be
all right to drop a hint to Sarek that we might be grandparents again
soon?" Amanda asked hopefully.

"I think it would be best to wait until I know for sure whether or not
I'm pregnant. Right now, all we're doing is speculating."

Amanda looked somewhat chagrined, but nodded understandingly. "I
suppose we can manage to wait a little longer, since we've already
waited this long ... but not too much longer, okay? We'd like to know
at least one of our grandchildren, since we can never know our
grandson in the past."

"Oh, did I tell you that Spock and I are grandparents ourselves now?
Our son in the past was married with two children the last time we saw
him -- a boy and a girl. We even managed to get one of our descendants
as a crewmember aboard the Enterprise -- a lovely girl named T'Pirn,
with Chekov has managed to get himself seriously involved ... not to
mention the psychiatrist who treated me for a while after our return
from the past, about the dreams I'd been having about Spock and me
which turned out to be real. You should see him -- the image of Spock,
except for the blond hair and blue eyes."

Amanda shook her head in disbelief. "Incredible."

"I know what you mean. It's almost too much to fathom, even for me."

Christine's eyes clouded over; her voice was quiet when she spoke
again. "I've never stopped thinking about our son in the past or
stopped loving him, but have resigned myself to the fact that I'll
never see him again. I can only pray he had a long, healthy and happy
life."

"Do you think Spock ever thinks of him?"

"I'm sure he does -- but like me, he's resigned himself to never
seeing our son again ... and considers it more logical to concentrate
on the present rather than dwelling on the past."

"Be that as it may, it's good to know that you'll have another chance
to be parents. Which reminds me ... what do you think you'll have this
time?"

"At this juncture, I'll be thankful not to lose the baby -- but if I
had a choice, I'd say that I'm hoping for a daughter, since the last
two babies I lost were girls."

"Maybe you'll have one of each."

"Twins? That would be very nice, but I don't know if that's possible."

"With Spock's physiology, anything is possible, so I wouldn't rule it
out if I were you."

"I'm not -- but at the same time, I'm not holding my breath."

Amanda looked at the chrono on the bedside table, reluctantly standing
up. "I'm afraid I've got to get my shopping done, then return home
since I promised Sarek I would be home before he was ... and he's due
back in another two hours. Take care of yourself, dear, and keep me
informed on what's happening with you and Spock."

"Will do."

"Goodbye, dear. Give my love to Spock when you see him. After all,
he's my son and I do love him, even if he considers me illogical for
feeling that way."

"You're his mother. A mother is supposed to love her child. I'm sure
he knows that, even if he won't admit it."

"I hope so. Well, I've got to get moving now. I'll see you later."
With that, the older woman stepped into the transporter booth and was
gone.

---

Christine was glad that McCoy had prescribed the six months medical
rest leave now ... and not just because of the upcoming pon farr,
though that was certainly part of the reason. In the event of another
pregnancy, it would be necessary for her to inform Fleet Command and
obtain maternity leave -- which meant that she would not return to
duty for at least another year.

Provided they don't retire me because of the baby, she thought wryly.
I wouldn't mind if it was just me ... but I don't want to be separated
from Spock -- nor do I have any wish to take him away from Starfleet.
It's his life, all he has known for umpteen years ... one of the few
places he feels at home. It's one thing to voluntarily leave the
service, but entirely another to be forced out. She sighed deeply. Oh,
hell, what am I doing worrying about that now? There's plenty of time
to figure out what we want to do. That pregnancy test I gave myself
was inconclusive, so I made an appointment with Dr. Corrigan on
Amanda's recommendation. He was the one who took care of her when she
had Spock. One way or another, I'll soon know, and then Spock and I
can act accordingly.

The buzzing of the bedside intercom cut into her thoughts."Yes,
T'Pala?" she asked upon seeing the Vulcan woman on her small
viewscreen.

"You asked to be reminded of your doctor's appointment, Dr. Chapel."

"Yes, T'Pala. Thank you."

Christine returned to her original train of thought once the other
woman's face faded from the screen. Spock was not with her at present,
having accepted a temporary position as his father's assistant at the
Science Academy a short time before ... and would not return for
several hours. She quickly showered and dressed, beaming down to the
lobby and hailing an aircab (Spock had the ground-car) once she
stepped outside. Traffic didn't seem too bad, so she should make it.

---

Christine made it to Corrigan's office with two minutes to spare. He
smiled as he ushered her into his treatment room and motioned her to
lie down on the diagnostic bed.

"Make yourself comfortable, my dear. How is Spock? I haven't seen him
for a long time." "He's fine. He's working at the Academy as his
father's assistant while we're here."

"Have you seen Amanda lately? I haven't met with her for an even
longer time, though I've talked with her a few times by vidphone."

"She's dropped by a few times."

"I had no idea Spock was married, much less planetside, until Amanda
told me a couple of days ago. How long have you been married?"

"Almost seven years."

"That long, huh? Had any pregnancies?"

"Two -- but miscarried both times. The second was due to an accident."

"What kind of accident?"

"It's a long story, and frankly we're still trying to put it behind us
-- so I would prefer not to talk about it right now, if you don't
mind."

"Of course not."

"Oh, yes. Spock said that you were married to a Vulcan woman,"
Christine said conversationally.

"Yes. My colleague Sorel's daughter, T'Mir."

"Any children yet?" Christine wondered.

"Still trying ... though I'm sure we'll eventually succeed if Spock
can father children. You know, at first we didn't think he would be
fertile because of his hybrid physiology -- but you're living proof
that he is."

"Are you saying that I'm ... ?" she trailed off hopefully.

Corrigan shook his head. "'fraid not. The biocomps detect no pregnancy
at this time. I think it was probably a false alarm." Christine looked
somewhat disappointed but managed a smile. "Don't worry," the doctor
assured her. "I'm sure it'll happen. You'll just have to keep trying.
Which reminds me ... do you and Spock intend to remain on Vulcan once
you do become pregnant?"

"At least until the baby is born."

"I would be honored to deliver Spock's child, just as I helped bring
him into the world."

"Thank you, Doctor. We'll definitely keep you in mind."

"One last thing. Did Amanda tell you that I've got an unbelievable
backlog of work due to my receptionist being out sick?"

"I believe she mentioned something about it. Why?"

"She said you're not doing anything else at the moment -- and I'd
really appreciate it if you could see clear to help me out."

"You mean you want me to...?"

"I know it's not what you generally do, but it is in your chosen
field."

Christine debated with herself for a time, then figured, Oh, what the
hell. I need something to do while Spock's working anyway.

"Okay, sure. No problem. Just give me some stuff to do."

"Thank you so much, Christine. I'll be right back. Wait here." She
nodded as Corrigan disappeared into his office, returning with a large
collection of computerized medical files. He handed them to her. "No
real hurry on these. Most of them don't have appointments coming up
for several weeks. Just work at your own pace and get them back to me
at your earliest opportunity."

Christine smiled and put them in her bag. "Will do. Thanks for your
confidence in me."

"Thank you," Corrigan smiled. "I'll see you later."

---

She beamed back up to the suite upon arrival at the hotel with the
intention of showering and changing, then working on the medical files
before Spock arrived ... but was surprised upon stepping out of the
transporter booth to see him sitting at her desk with eyes closed and
elbows resting on the desktop. His hands were steepled as if he were
meditating; he lifted his head and opened his eyes when she called his
name.

"Spock!"

"Greetings, my wife," he said, holding out two fingers to cross with
hers as the couple exchanged smiles.

"It's wonderful to see you, but what are you doing here now? I wasn't
expecting you until 1800."

"I have good news for you," Spock told her.

"What is it?" Christine was barely able to keep excitement out of her
voice. His being here now could only mean one thing.

"I have informed T'Pala that I will be living here with you for an
extended period."

"Spock, are you telling me that you've moved in?"

"I believe I said that."

"Spock, you're unbelievable! Why couldn't you have told me earlier
that you'd decided to move in?"

"I wished to surprise you. I had assumed you would be pleased to learn
of my decision, but your reaction seems to indicate otherwise. If you
prefer, I will--"

She stopped him with a raised hand. "For God's sake, Spock! Of course
I'm pleased! I only wish you'd told me so I could have been here."

"I had no wish to inconvenience you, especially when T'Pala informed
me of your doctor's appointment. Which reminds me -- why did you make
one?"

She smiled and projected her thoughts at him. *I thought I was
pregnant again*

*Indeed?* He raised one upswept brow with a half-smile.

*But I wasn't, the doctor said. He thinks it was a false alarm.*

*But we can still keep trying, can we not?* Chris felt Spock's
amusement through their link, even if it didn't show on his face. *And
once we succeed, do you wish for a daughter?*

*I'm not particular about gender this time -- and believe me, I have
no intention of losing our *next* baby. Not even if I have to stay in
the hospital the whole time!*

Mind-laughter again rippled to her through their link. *I doubt that
will be necessary. I foresee no time travel or deep-space missions in
our immediate future. In addition, my only wish at this moment is for
an evening alone with you.*

Christine smiled as they crossed fingers again. *My husband, you are
insatiable.*

*No more than you,* he countered; she again felt his mind-laughter.
*Now may we dispense with talk and get down to business?*

*Talk? We haven't said a word for the past ten minutes.*

*Silence, woman. We are wasting valuable time.*

*What if I say no?* she teased, knowing that he knew she was teasing
him.

*Never attempt to deceive me, Christine. Remember, I know your every
thought. You want me as much as I want you.* With that, the Vulcan
stood up, effortlessly sweeping his wife off her feet and into his
arms.

Her arms locked around his neck and pulled his lips down to hers.
*Love me, Spock.*

He carried her over to the bed and placed her on it, expert fingers
soon making short work of her light clothing and intimately caressing
her silky skin as she moaned with pleasure at his every touch. Moments
later, she lay unmoving as she watched him undress, marveling once
again at his incredible body.

She opened her legs, bending her knees and resting her feet on the bed
... and then he was with her again, inside her again, moving
deliciously as his arms locked around her. *Christine ... oh gods,
Christine ...*

She felt his pleasure through the link; it only served to enhance her
own in once again feeling him moving sensuously within her. *Spock, my
darling ...*

*I have missed you so much, my wife.*

*Not half as much as I've missed you. Please say that we will remain
man and wife always, never be parted again.*

*Only by death,* he assured her -- then she felt her climax coming and
knew he wasn't far behind. She gasped as he thrust deeply into her,
arching her back and holding him tightly.

*Spock!*

*Christine!*

She smiled as she felt his hot sweetness fill her when he relaxed
against her. She had been so empty, so alone, without him ... and
never intended to be without him ever again -- not for as long as she
lived!

*I love you, Spock,* she communicated through the bond.

*And I cherish thee, my wife,* she felt him reply in her mind. *More
than words could ever express.*

Spock lifted his wife's face and kissed her tenderly, putting all the
feelings he bore for her into it. At the same time, she brought out
such unbelievable passion in him ... but there was plenty of time for
both, since they had a lifetime ahead of them.

*Sleep now, beloved. We will join again in the morning.*

He gradually allowed himself to fall asleep as soon as he felt her
drift off to sleep, discreetly drawing a sheet over their intricately
entwined bodies.

---

It was Christine who awakened first, her heart feeling so full that it
could have burst upon seeing her husband sleeping peacefully in her
arms. *Spock, you have made me so happy.*

His eyes opened so unexpectedly that she was startled; he smiled
sleepily at her. "Good morning, my wife."

"Good morning, Spock."

Christine shivered as his lips again traced a path down her neck and
throat, embrace tightening as they returned to possess hers. They were
as sweet as honey and as intoxicating as any drug... She felt his
passion through their bond, so intense it almost frightened her -- and
it wasn't time for the mating fever, either. But oh, when it was ... !

He felt her hesitation and held her head close, tenderly stroking her
hair and kissing her temple. *Do not be afraid, my wife; I will not
hurt you.*

*I know you won't,* she assured him, feeling him relax. *I want you,*
she thought as she allowed her hands and lips to roam greedily over
his body, stroking, kissing and caressing intimately ... eventually
finding his large, verdant shaft. Her tongue lovingly stroked the
sensitive flesh before her lips kissed the smooth tip.

*Christine ... * he groaned, his back arching as his hands clutched
the sheet, barely able to contain himself. *Christine, I can wait no
longer. I must have you -- now!* He rolled her over onto her back, her
legs parted in welcome as his body claimed hers. He thrust inside
eagerly, sighing contentedly when he felt her warmth surround him.
*Thank you.*

*My pleasure,* she smiled through the link ... and soon laughed out
loud.

*What do you find so amusing?*

*What Leonard -- Dr. McCoy -- said a few months ago when I was
pregnant with our third child.*

*What did he say?*

*That he thought we should cut down on our 'wild sex orgies' while I'm
pregnant.*

*What did you tell him?*

*That I couldn't guarantee we would -- but that we would try.*

*But we did not 'cut down'.*

*You know that and I know that, but he doesn't ... and what Leonard
doesn't know won't hurt him.*

*Are you saying that you believe we should do so now? That you think
that might have contributed to the loss of our other two babies?*

*Hell, no! -- especially since we had 'wild sex orgies' all during my
first pregnancy and our son turned out just fine ... so there's no
reason why everything shouldn't go well this time. Besides, I've
waited far too long to have you like this again to slow down now!*

*As have I,* the Vulcan replied, cuddling his wife's warm, fragrant
body close to him as the couple again feel asleep in each other's
arms.

---

The next morning, Spock took the opportunity to record a letter to
Kirk while Christine was in the shower.

JIM, he began. I ASK YOUR FORGIVENESS FOR KEEPING YOU WAITING UNTIL
NOW, BUT IT WAS UNAVOIDABLE. CHRISTINE AND I HAVE HAD MANY URGENT
PERSONAL PROBLEMS TO RESOLVE.

He momentarily stopped the recording to lean back in the chair and
stretch his sleek body.

I AM PLEASED TO REPORT THAT OUR PROBLEMS HAVE, TO ALL INTENTS AND
PURPOSES, BEEN RESOLVED ... FOR WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO CONCEIVE ANOTHER
CHILD. OH -- AND DR. McCOY, YOU NEED NOT BE CONCERNED FOR CHRISTINE OR
OUR CHILD'S WELL-BEING. CHRISTINE HAS INFORMED ME THAT ONE OF THE
PHYSICIANS WHICH ATTENDED MOTHER AT MY OWN BIRTH, DR. DANIEL CORRIGAN,
WILL DELIVER THE CHILD AT THE SCIENCE ACADEMY MEDICAL CENTER WHEN THE
TIME COMES.

Spock again stopped the recording to allow himself a smile at the
thought of the Enterprise's Chief Surgeon -- every bit as much a
loyal, trusted friend as Jim, despite their differences. The Vulcan
had no doubts but that McCoy would be right there with Jim when the
latter played the holovid; it was for that reason that he had added
the medical note. McCoy would surely be curious, if only as a doctor,
about what would happen when Christine had their next baby ...

Spock sighed and resumed recording the letter.

WE WILL INFORM YOU OF ALL THE NECESSARY DETAILS AT THE PROPER TIME.
OH, YES ... CHRISTINE SAID TO TELL YOU THAT SHE SENDS HER BEST WISHES
AND HOPES ALL IS GOING WELL WITH EVERYONE ON THE ENTERPRISE. I BELIEVE
SHE MISSES BEING ON BOARD AS MUCH AS I ... BUT WE HAVE NOT YET DECIDED
WHAT WE WILL DO ONCE WE HAVE ANOTHER CHILD. WHEN WE DO, WE SHALL
INFORM YOU. IN THE MEANTIME, LIVE LONG AND PROSPER, MY FRIENDS.

He raised his right hand in the Vulcan salute after making sure it
would be properly recorded on the holovid, turning off the recorder
with a brisk click. It took but a few moments to prepare the holovid
for transmission, then beam down to slip it in the outgoing mail bin
on the front desk, returning to the suite to await Christine.

---

A week later, while the Enterprise was in standard orbit around Rigel
Four for yet another diplomatic mission, Kirk was surprised but
pleased to receive a holovid from Spock, from whom he had not heard
for nearly four months. Unfortunately he had received it while still
on duty, so he would be unable to watch it until 1400, when he would
be off-shift. He would then call Bones to join him since the doctor
would surely be as interested as he in what had been happening with
Spock and Christine since they had been planetside.

The time seemed to literally drag until 1400, but at least it arrived.
Jim stepped onto the turbolift after gratefully relinquishing the
Bridge to the Beta shift crew, breathing a sigh of relief and
thankfulness at finally being free to do as he wished, if only for a
little while. It seemed to take forever to reach his Deck Five
quarters, but at last he was behind the doors of his private domain.

The Captain took a long, relaxing sonic shower, washing the remainder
of his weariness away. Most had left him upon the receipt of Spock's
holovid. Sulu had proved a competent second-in-command in Spock's
absence and Chekov had served well as Acting Science Officer, but Jim
missed his Vulcan friend's voice, his playing of his Vulcan lyrette
and their weekly chess games ... more than he was willing to admit,
even to himself.

Upon re-entering his bedroom, Kirk dressed in civvies, inserting the
holovid cartridge into his personal communications terminal,
depressing the PAUSE button and opening the nearby intercom for
Sickbay. Bones would probably just now be leaving; perhaps he could
catch him before he left.

"Kirk to Sickbay."

"McCoy here. What can I do for you, Jim?"

"I just received a holovid from Spock. I thought you might be
interested in watching it with me."

"I'll be right there. McCoy out."

Twenty minutes later the Chief Surgeon stood at the Captain's door and
pressed the button to announce his presence.

"Come," Kirk said, noting that McCoy had also showered and changed
into civilian clothes.

"Here I am. Let's get on with it."

The Doctor pulled up a chair and joined Kirk at his personal
communications center, waiting as the holovid playback was turned on.
A few seconds later Spock's image appeared and the Vulcan began to
speak. Jim's eyebrows rose, then he smiled when he realized that he
had never seen his Vulcan friend look so relaxed and happy in all the
years he had known him. The holovid wasn't long; Spock wasn't one to
waste words. After it ended, his two friends looked at each other and
grinned.

"Well, Bones, it looks as though you were right. Christine did get him
back."

"Don't underestimate that lady, Jim. She's much stronger than she
looks. She's had to be. Loving a Vulcan isn't easy, you know ...
especially when you're married to one."

Jim smiled wistfully. "He looked happy, didn't he?"

"As happy as I've ever seen him," the Doctor agreed.

"I'm glad that Spock and Christine have managed to sort things out and
stay married. He's been so lonely all his life. If anyone deserves a
happy marriage, he does," the Captain remarked.

McCoy concurred. "Not to mention children. Remember, Spock said they
were trying to conceive another child. I pray Chris is able to carry
this one to term. It would kill her to lose another."

"I don't think there's anything to worry about on that score, Bones.
Daniel Corrigan is supposed to be taking care of her ... and if anyone
can bring a part-alien baby to term, he can. As I recall, he was one
of the doctors who took care of Amanda when Spock was born." Kirk took
a swallow of his drink.

"I'd still like to be there myself, though," McCoy said.

"I know ... but all we can do now is hope."

"I wonder what they'll do once they have the child ... quit the
service or return to the Enterprise," the Doctor speculated.

"I'm sure Spock will let us know one way or the other, Bones," Jim
assured his friend.

Then McCoy frowned; Kirk asked what was wrong. "It's strange, Jim. I
seem to remember Spock saying that he was going to Vulcan for the
Kolinahràbut he never said a word about it ... or why he left ... in
his message."

Jim laughed. "I would think it would be obvious, especially to you ...
but I'm sure he'll tell us eventually. That is, if he wants us to
know. He may consider it too personal. You know how private Vulcans
are."

"But we're his closest friends," the Doctor protested.

"Granted -- but remember, there are still things that we keep to
ourselves, even as close as we are -- o I wouldn't be surprised if
there are things Spock considers too private even to tell us about."

"I suppose you're right. Getting back to the subject -- if they have a
child and decide to remain in the service, you can bet credits to navy
beans that they'll find a way to do both."

"Though I doubt it'll be easy to get approval from Fleet Command," Jim
remarked. "They pretty much frown upon bringing family members,
especially children, aboard starship ... and the Enterprise is
essentially a military vessel. They only recently started allowing
married couples aboard, you know."

"Be that as it may, it's all speculation," McCoy pointed out.

Jim sighed and stretched. "And God knows how long we'll have to wait
to find out for sure, one way or the other. In the meantime, let's
break out the Saurian brandy and toast our friends' new found
happiness, as well as their efforts to have another child." He handed
McCoy his empty glass.

"Coming up," Leonard said, moving over to where the Captain's personal
stock was kept to pour Kirk and himself two glasses of Saurian brandy,
handing one to Jim and keeping the other for himself.

"Here you go, Jim. One for you, one for me. To Spock and Chris. May
they always be as happy as they are now -- and may their efforts to
have another child prove successful. And most of all, may the child be
born healthy, beautiful and as smart as his or her parents."

"Amen," the Captain heartily concurred as he raised his glass to touch
that of the Chief Surgeon.

---

It was unbelievable how fast the time went by, as far as Christine was
concerned. Almost before she knew it, it was time for the pon farr.
She'd been expecting it, actually, but could not have known just when
it would happen. All she knew for sure was that it had not happened
during the six years in the past -- nor had it occurred at any time
during the last six months ... so it was only logical that it would
come now. Chris was sure she could handle it, since Leonard would
never have certified her physically fit if she wasn't. Frankly he
wouldn't have let her out of his sight, much less let her go traipsing
off to Vulcan, of all places! Most importantly, there was no history
of miscarriages by the women in her family background ... or any
hereditary weaknesses which might cause them.

As a highly trained nurse, Christine saw no medical reason why she
shouldn't be able to handle another pregnancy ... after all, the only
reasons she had miscarried before were accidents, like the beating
which had caused her to lose her third baby. Even if Spock did tend to
think of her as being as fragile as porcelain -- but then he
considered all Humans to be such, women particularly so. But if that
had been the case, there would never have been a Starfleet, especially
not one which included women! Humans were tougher than they looked.
They had to be, in order to survive on certain planets or as members
of starship crews, the Enterprise being only one example.

---

Of course, Christine had a preliminary checkup as a precaution,
obtaining a clean bill of health from Dr. Corrigan ... for Vulcan
males were ruled by passion as long as the pon farr was in effect, so
the last thing they would think of was to exercise self-control.

"You pretty much know how to handle Spock since you've been married to
him for nearly seven years," Corrigan sighed as he shifted in his
office chair. "...but a few words of advice, however. Relax
completely; don't resist, whatever you do. Otherwise he could hurt you
without meaning to. Give him whatever he wants whenever he wants it
... and don't expect to get much sleep or have much opportunity to eat
until it's pretty much behind you. Which reminds me ... which symptoms
has he exhibited so far?"

Christine told him about the short temper, memory lapses and lack of
appetite.

"Then you had best be prepared, for those symptoms indicate that the
brunt of the mating fever will strike within the next 12 to 24 hours
-- probably less. So if you have the chaance, I suggest that you get a
good night's sleep beforehand, then eat a good hearty meal ... not to
mention take a shower."

The doctor's words echoed in Christine's head as she headed home, and
she fully intended to follow his advice as far as she was able.

---

Upon arrival, Chris found that Spock was meditating, so she had an
hour to herself. She used the time to shower and eat. With luck, she
would be able to sleep before the full brunt of the pon farr struck
him. If not, she would have to snatch what sleep she could between
sexual encounters. She didn't bother with a nightgown since he would
more likely than not tear it off her ... simply got into bed and
waited. She didn't have to wait long. Barely ten minutes later Spock
came in, undressed and got into bed beside her, lying quietly for a
while ... then said her name.

"Christine..."

By the tremor in his voice, she knew he was on the edge of his
endurance.

"Is it time, Spock?" she asked.

He nodded briefly, then the next thing Chris knew, she was on her back
with her legs apart and his body covering hers. He thrust inside her
with a passionate urgency she had never felt in him before, muttering
erotic declarations in Vulcan against her lips -- of which he couldn't
seem to get enough. Every movement of his hips brought renewed
pleasure and his kisses left her breathless. She wanted to give all
she had to him, but had to pace herself. Otherwise she would never
last the five days, much less satisfy him.

---

The aforementioned was pretty much the pattern for the next five days,
interspersed with breaks for the exercise of other bodily functions
... as well as a period of exhausted slumber before Spock would shake
her awake and begin again. It was well into the third day before
Christine dared to leave the room for even a short time. She ate a
quick meal, used the bathroom and returned to bed. Barely five minutes
later Spock reached for her, his erection and desires having renewed
themselves, and the process began anew.

Chris eventually discovered that even as much as she enjoyed their
passionate lovemaking -- some of the best sex she'd ever had -- she
was beginning to feel quite sore, particularly in her private parts.
Fortunately it was well into the fourth day at this point, so there
was only another time or two to go. They would finally be able to get
a few hours sleep -- or at least Spock would. She had used the last
few opportunities she had had to lubricate the aforementioned parts.
After all, natural lubrication could go only so far.

---

It was early evening of the fifth day when Christine awakened from a
deep, refreshing sleep, the couple having completed their last sexual
encounter several hours before. It wasn't until she felt a hand
stroking her back and making her shiver that she knew Spock had
awakened. He lifted her head and tasted deeply, sweetly, of her lips
... once again the tender and gentle lover she preferred, even as much
as she had enjoyed the passionate joinings of the last five days.

"Good morning, my wife. Did you sleep well?"

"Yes, thank you."

With that, he proceeded to once again caress her intimately.

"Don't you think you've had enough of that?"

"I shall never get enough of you," came the matter-of-fact reply. "And
I would now appreciate your ordering a large breakfast for me ... us.
I have had neither the time nor inclination for solid sustenance for
the last several days and am quite hungry."

*Of course not,* Christine thought wickedly. *The only hunger he's had
has been for me!*

Out loud, she said, "I thought you would be," with a sly wink as she
sat up and reached for her robe, shrugging into it before standing up
and wrapping it around her, tightening the sash-belt before stepping
into her bedroom slippers.

"As I recall, you were quite the willing participant," Spock pointed
out as he slipped his own robe on and stood up, heading for the
bathroom and a sonic shower.

"Would you have preferred me to resist?" she threw back.

Spock stopped in his tracks and gave his wife an affectionately
exasperated look. "That would have been most illogical, since I could
have easily injured you without meaning to."

"Then it's fortunate that I didn't," she remarked before visibly
deflating when he gave her a look to end all looks and disappeared
into the bathroom.

Christine sighed and punched up a sumptuous dinner for two from Room
Service, making up the table first and then the bed before
straightening up the room as she waited to use the bathroom and have a
shower herself.

---

Christine waited three days before having Corrigan check her again;
this time, he confirmed that she was indeed pregnant again. The
following morning, she and Spock rose, showered and dressed, sharing a
leisurely breakfast before calling his parents. Amanda's smiling face
soon appeared, her blue eyes lighting up at the sight of her son and
daughter-in-law.

"Spock ... Christine, my dear. Haven't heard from you for almost ten
days. To what do we owe the pleasure of this call?"

Chris smiled and crossed fingers with her husband. "Spock has an
important announcement to make."

"Yes, my son?"

"I am pleased to report that Christine is once again pregnant."

The older woman's eyes widened in stunned disbelief. "Did you say what
I think you just said?"

"Indeed," Spock confirmed. "Christine and I are again expecting a
child."

Amanda frowned thoughtfully. "Spock, were you near your Mating Time?"

Spock's cheeks colored pale green, but he nodded. "I was."

His mother smiled knowingly. "I thought so." Then tears welled up in
her eyes. "Thank God," she said -- then looked squarely at her son and
his wife. "Spock, your father will be so pleased when I tell him.
We've waited so long for this."

"You mean he is not at home?"

"No. He just left for the Science Academy."

"Then you must inform him upon his arrival home."

"Believe me, I will." Then Amanda's expression became dreamy. "This is
almost as wonderful as the day I gave birth to you, Spock ... not to
mention the moment you were placed in my arms."

"We are every bit as pleased as you, Mother -- and Christine assures
me that everything will go well with this baby, so you and Father may
expect to become grandparents within the next 9.5 months."

At that moment, the three heard the doorbell chime at Spock's family
home. "Well, I've got to go now. That's T'Pala come for her weekly
instruction. I'll talk to you -- and see you both -- later. Farewell,
my son. Goodbye, Christine, my dear ... and congratulations."

The couple smiled and thanked her, then looked strangely at each
other, one of Spock's upswept brows raised in surprise once Amanda's
image had faded from their small viewer.

"Did she say `T'Pala'?"

"I believe so."

"But what could your mother possibly be teaching her?"

"Unknown. I suggest you ask either T'Pala or Mother that question at
your first opportunity."

---

It was a week later that Christine managed to remember to ask the
Vulcan woman what she was learning from Amanda. "T'Pala, could I ask
you something?"

"What do you wish to know?"

"Spock and I were speaking with his mother recently and she said she
had a pupil named T'Pala who came twice a week for private
instruction. Is it you?"

"Indeed. I am studying with her in order to obtain the necessary
credits for my Ph.D. degree."

"Do you intend to specialize in any particular area once that is
accomplished?"

"I will likely go into Vulcan psychology -- or more accurately, the
psychology concerning relationships between Vulcans and non-Vulcans,
particularly those Vulcans who marry off-worlders ... such as
Ambassador Sarek marrying the Lady Amanda, and Commander Spock
marrying you."

Christine couldn't help smiling at the thought. Too bad there couldn't
have been one such as T'Pala years ago. Things would probably have
gone much easier for all of them ... and the two months she and Spock
had spent apart might never have happened if they had had someone
trained in such matters to sit down with and discuss their
difficulties.

"I hope you succeed, T'Pala. With more and more Vulcans marrying
off-worlders, your services are bound to be in great demand once you
set up practice."

"Thank you. My specialty is still relatively new, so not much is known
of it."

Well, if anyone would know of it, Amanda would, Christine chuckled,
prompting a surprised eyebrow from the Vulcan woman.

"I'd better get back upstairs before Spock returns. He had an errand
to run at the Science Academy and promised to return with an hour and
a half."

The other woman nodded and turned back to her work as Christine
gathered her belongings (which included more medical cataloguing for
Dr. Corrigan) and stepped into the transporter booth to beam herself
back up to the hotel suite she now shared with Spock on the third
floor.

---

Christine also wrote Uhura as soon as possible after her pregnancy had
been confirmed, receiving this reply ten days later:

Hi, Chris. Congrats on being pregnant again. Dr. McCoy told me the day
after the Captain received the holovid from Spock. You should see
those two -- the way they're acting, one would think they themselves
were going to be parents instead of you and Spock. They're strutting
around like peacocks with their chests stuck out and sporting such
big, silly grins that I'm surprised their faces don't split.
Everyone's happy about it, but them!

Uhura sighed.

Oh well, I guess I'll just have to grin and bear it until you two get
back. Which reminds me -- have you decided what you're going to do
after the baby's born? Please let me know as soon as you know, since I
want a chance to care for your baby if possible. I hope you'll be able
to figure out a way to serve on the Enterprise and still have your
baby with you. Fleet Command might be very reluctant to allow the baby
on board, but I'm counting on you and Spock to convince them that the
two of you are too valuable to Starfleet and the Enterprise to quit
the service in order to raise your child. If they want to keep you
both on active duty, they'll have to give in whether they want to or
not.

Uhura laughed and Christine joined in.

Well, that's all I can think of to say for now, so I'll close here.
Take care of yourself, kiss your baby for me and give Spock my best.
Hope to see you all soon.

Love always,

Nyota

---

A few days later Christine was surprised to find T'Pala standing at
the door of the suite after answering the brisk knock.

"T'Pala, what brings you here?"

"I wish to speak with you about something very important. In fact, I
would consider it a favor, for I am due to marry soon."

"Congratulations," Chris said.

Delicate brows shot up, but T'Pala was gracious. "Thank you. My
request is this. My bondmate wished for me to approach you and Mr.
Spock, see if the two of you would be willing to attend us at our
koon-ut-kal-if-fee ceremony in nine months' time."

"It all depends on whether or not I feel up to it, and if Spock isn't
busy at the Science Academy. We don't want to risk this baby. He might
also consider it more logical to continue his work at the Academy."

"I can understand that; therefore, I am not demanding an immediate
answer. All I can ask is that you discuss it with him and give me your
answer as soon as possible in order that Salek and I may plan
accordingly."

"I'll let you know what we decide at the first opportunity after I've
spoken with Spock about it," Christine promised.

"We will abide by your decision. Thank you for our time. Farewell."
The Vulcan woman saluted and departed.

Christine thought over T'Pala's unusual (not to mention unexpected)
request as she showered and dressed. It wasn't every day that one was
asked to be an attendant at a Vulcan wedding, so Chris felt singled
out, even honored, to have been chosen.

She was certain Spock would also be pleased at the request, but was
also certain that he would put top priority on her health and that of
their child -- not to mention what he considered almost a pet project,
something he had been working on with his father Sarek at the Academy
for the last six weeks. It had been many years since the two had
worked together on anything, and after spending eighteen long, painful
years estranged from his father, Spock wasn't about to jeopardize the
new-found closeness between himself and the father he both dearly
loved and deeply respected.

She was dying of curiosity as to what they were working on, but Spock
hadn't volunteered any information, even after six weeks, so Christine
eventually accepted the apparent fact that she would probably never
know. Be that as it may, she suspected it had something to do with
computers, a mutual interest of Spock and his father.

As for the other matter, she was sure they would attend T'Pala and
Salek at their wedding if at all possible. In the meantime, she had an
appointment for a checkup. It was also necessary for her to turn in
the medical cataloguing she had been doing for Dr. Corrigan.

It definitely wasn't as challenging as her regular medical duties, but
at least it was in her chosen field and saved her from climbing the
wall with boredom since Spock wouldn't let her go out

and work full-time for fear of endangering the baby's health -- and
her own. She didn't like to admit it but knew he was right, so she was
thankful for the cataloguing that kept her busy during the time Spock
was away at the Academy.

After her appointment and the turning in of the aforementioned
cataloguing, she planned to meet Spock at the Academy for a late lunch
since Dr. Corrigan's office was in the same building complex -- having
already decided to pick up more work to do at home, then possibly
discuss T'Pala's request with him over their midday meal. Spock was
waiting at a table for two in the Academy's air-conditioned Commissary
when his wife arrived; after the two crossed fingers, he seated her,
then himself after making sure she was comfortable.

"Spock, I've been wondering about something," Chris finally said after
a few moments of silence.

"Like what, my wife?"

"Where did you stay before you moved in with me?"

"At my estate," came the reply.

"Did you feel at home there?"

"No," he returned simply.

"Why not?"

"Because you were not there with me."

She smiled and they crossed fingers again. "You mean you consider
living at the hotel with me being at home?"

Spock gave an affectionately exasperated sigh. "I believe I said that.
Now may we order our meal? I have not eaten all day."

She frowned at him for not having eaten earlier, but flagged down a
waiter so Spock could order their meal. "Your meal, sir ... madam,"
the young Vulcan attendant said ten minutes later, guiding a
well-laden antigrav table in front of him.

Spock gave the waiter a meaningful look. "I will handle it from here."

"Yes, sir." The young man nodded and departed.

Christine moved to help but Spock made her sit down, dishing out the
food himself from the three large pots on the table. Her own brows
raised when he placed a large plate of rice and assorted vegetables in
what looked like sour cream before her.

"Is it unappetizing?" he wondered upon noticing her reaction.

Chris smiled and shook her head. "Oh, no, it smells wonderful. I just
feel so lazy with you doing all the work. I'm usually the one waiting
on you."

"It is something every Vulcan husband does for his wife. I am merely
being true to my heritage," her husband informed her. "Now would you
like some tulac or would you prefer something else?"

"Tulac is fine, thank you." As the meal progressed, Christine
commented, "You know, Spock, I'm really developing a taste for this
dish. What did you say it was called?"

"Tirqueen Mi," he replied. "It is a mixture of vegetables in a thick
sauce similar to sour cream served over rice."

"Whatever's in it, it's delicious. So much so that I want another
helping."

Spock frowned with concern and stopped eating. "My wife, it is unwise
for you to overeat."

Christine laughed and patted her belly. "You forget, Spock, that I'm
eating for two now. That's why I have a larger appetite ... and it's
normal to gain about 10-15 kilos over the course of a pregnancy."

The Vulcan sighed and resumed eating. "Very well -- as long as you
take care of yourself and follow Dr. Corrigan's recommendations."

"My husband, I do believe you're making noises like a mother hen,"
Chris teased after taking another swallow of chilled tulac.

"I am simply concerned for your health and that of our child. It is
only logical." Spock sounded almost indignant.

"I know. I was just teasing."

She reached her right hand across the table and rested it on her
husband's; he looked up at her, meeting her blue eyes with his brown.
Neither said a word, but unspoken love flowed between them. Within an
hour the meal was over and Spock was stacking the dishes, pots,
glasses and silverware on the table. Christine had never felt so lazy,
like the galaxy's biggest goof-off, and told her husband as much.
Spock merely frowned at her, quietly but firmly ordering her to their
ground-car after crossing fingers with her again.

She sighed but reluctantly complied, for there was no way to win an
argument with Spock when he was in this kind of mood. Oh, well, I
suppose I should consider myself lucky to have a husband who wants to
baby me, Chris told herself as she reached the car and got in, setting
herself into the contoured passenger seat as the belt automatically
locked around her and the climate adjusted itself for her comfort.

Spock came ten minutes later; on the way home they discussed T'Pala's
request. The two of them eventually agreed that they would attend
T'Pala and Salek -- if she felt all right, and if he wasn't

too busy at the Academy. Christine knew it was the best she could
expect, so she didn't argue ... because arguing with a Vulcan was a
lost cause. Now all she had to do was inform T'Pala of the decision.

---

After finishing her shower, Chris donned her robe and headed back into
the bedroom, finding her husband dressing. "Spock, I just realized
something," she said as she walked up to him, automatically raising
her two fingers to cross with his. "I'm six months pregnant."

"So?"

"I was six months along when I lost the baby last time. I'm sure you
remember."

Remember? How could he forget? Even as illogical as it was, Spock
still harbored guilt for not having done more to protect his wife and
unborn child. There was nothing he could do to change what had
happened, but the feeling still existed -- and persisted.

Christine felt it through their link and put a comforting hand on his
cheek. "Don't feel badly, beloved. You couldn't have known it was
going to happen."

"I still believe that there was more I could have done to ensure your
safety and that of our child. Instead, I let my guard down; as a
result, we were attacked and you received the beating which caused you
to lose the baby."

"It's over and done with, Spock. There's nothing we can do about it
now. Besides, we'll soon have another child." Christ patted her
pregnant belly to prove her point.

"For which I am thankful." Spock opened his arms; Christine moved into
them. He held her close, warmly kissing the silky cap of her hair.

She smiled as she held him tightly, clasped hands resting on the small
of his back. "We'd never have had it if I'd let you sever our bond and
dissolve our marriage like you wanted to."

"My wife, there is no point in recriminations at this late date." The
Vulcan sounded almost exasperated.

She laughed and playfully kissed him. "I can see that you still have
difficulty telling the difference between teasing and the truth. I'll
have to make it my business to correct that." Chris moved out of her
husband's arms and carefully adjusted his shirt so that it lay smooth.
"You'd better get moving. You have less than an hour before your
father expects you."

"Forty-one point six-seven-five minutes, to be exact," came the reply.

Christine sighed and began to turn around, gently pushing him toward
the transporter even as she ran her fingers lightly down his spine,
enjoying his involuntary shiver at her action. "Get going. I'll see
you when you get back."

Spock stiffened his back and made himself step onto the transporter,
beaming out to the hotel lobby before heading to the parking lot and
his waiting ground-car moments after materializing and nodding a
greeting to T'Pala at the front desk.

---

Kirk had barely finished dressing when his buzzer sounded; he pressed
the button at his bedside to unlock the door and headed for the living
area of his quarters. "Come." His eyes widened as Uhura stepped in, a
frown of concern wrinkling her forehead. It must be important for her
to come here; she rarely visited him in his quarters. It was more
common for her to approach him in the Officers' Mess, Rec Room, or
gym. Both considered the Bridge a place where work -- and only work --
took place, except in emergencies.

"May I speak privately with you, Captain?"

"Of course, Uhura. What's on your mind?"

"Have you heard anything from Spock?"

"Just that holovid a few months ago telling us about Christine being
pregnant again. Haven't you heard back from her yet?"

"A short note not long after that, but nothing since. That was three
months ago. I hope nothing's wrong. Remember, she was six months along
when she lost their last baby."

Kirk tried to reassure his crewmember and friend. "I'm sure we'd have
heard something if anything of that nature had happened ... and if I
know Spock, he's gotten himself involved in some pet project. That
could explain why we haven't heard from him."

"What of Chris?"

"I don't know. All we can do is wait and hope that we soon hear from
one or both of them. Which reminds me -- we haven't had mail call yet,
so there could easily be another holovid or something waiting for us."

"I hope you're right."

"So do I. Anything else?"

Uhura shook her head. "Can't think of anything else offhand."

"Let me know if you hear anything."

"Will do ... and be sure to tell me if you hear before I do."

"You know it. Now you'd better get up to the Bridge before I decide to
dock you for being late," Kirk teased her. "I'll be up in a few
minutes."

"Yes, sir," Uhura quipped, giving her Captain a sly smile before the
doors of his quarters slid shut behind her.

---

Christine awakened at 0530, smiling when she felt the warmth of her
husband's body as he slept deeply, snuggled close to her and holding
her from behind, clasped hands resting on her large belly.

*Spock?*

*Is anything wrong?* His mind-voice sounded drowsy.

*Oh, no, I'm fine.* She felt his relief through the bond, his embrace
tightening as she relaxed against him. *But there is something I want
to ask you.*

*Specify.*

*Did I ever tell you what I told Leonard not long after you left?*

*No. What did you tell him?* Spock was fully awake now.

*That I was hoping your leaving had just been a bad dream, that I
hadn't lost our baby -- and that I would wake up to find myself in bed
with you, in your arms, and feeling our baby move inside me...* Even
as Chris thought it, she felt a vigorous kick in her upper left
abdomen, directing Spock's hand to the appropriate spot. *I was more
prophetic than I knew,* she laughed.

*How so?*

*Well, I just woke up; I'm in your arms in our bed and am feeling our
baby move inside me... That reminds me, I ought to drop Nyota a line
and let her know what's been going on. I'm sure she's worried about
us.*

Spock also felt a twinge of guilt for allowing such long gaps between
letters to Jim. His friend was surely concerned about his long silence
as well, so he would have to take the time to write or record a letter
and bring him up-to-date. In the meantime, he would have Christine
tell Uhura to tell Jim to expect a letter from him in the near future.

*I'll be glad to, he heard in his mind. In the meantime, you'd better
get up and get dressed. You're due at the Academy in less than half an
hour ... and *please*, if only for my sake, eat some breakfast!*

*If it will please you, my wife.* She felt his mind-laughter as he
turned to face her and lifted her chin for a goodbye kiss. *I will
return at 1800,* he informed her as he got up and began dressing.

*I'll be expecting you,* she replied as she again snuggled under the
covers, burying her face in their shared pillow and smiling as she
breathed in the lingering essence of him.

Just the sight of her curves outlined beneath the covers stirred
desire deep within the Vulcan's body as well as an impulse to call his
father and forego his regular trip to the Academy -- but it was too
late for that. He summoned all his strength and finished dressing,
leaving the bedroom for the kitchen to fix himself a quick breakfast
as he had promised Christine he would. Five minutes later Spock
departed the suite, beaming down to the in-building parking lot.

Spock pressed a button on the remote control in his pocket upon
reaching the parking lot, activating the ground-car's engine and
setting a comfortable temperature in the driver's compartment before
stepping inside. The seat belt automatically locked around him as he
settled himself into the contoured seat, then shifted into drive and
smoothly accelerated onto the main road leading to the Science
Academy.

Christine rose an hour later, showering and breakfasting before
sitting at her desk with the intention of recording another
long-delayed letter to Uhura. She leaned back in her chair as she
rested a cup of herbal tea on the small "shelf" her large belly made,
smiling as she again felt the baby move inside her. She skimmed over
Uhura's last letter before beginning her own, settling down to dictate
another missive to her friend, who must surely be worried sick after
no word from her for nearly three months.

"Please forgive me for being such a terrible correspondent, Ny," she
implored her friend. "But these things happen when one is in my
situation, so please bear with me. I should be back to normal soon.

"In the meantime, I wanted to let you know that everything is fine on
this end. I had another checkup yesterday; Dr. Corrigan says the baby
is strong and healthy, so he sees no reason why I should not carry
this one full-term. Oh, to be a mother again... You can imagine how
happy I was to hear that; not to mention Spock, though naturally he
did not show it. But I felt his happiness through our bond, so that is
what matters. Speaking of Spock, he said to have you tell the Captain
to be expecting another letter from him soon.

"He has been busy at the Science Academy these last few months,
working on some project with his father. I have not been able to pry
anything out of him as to just what it is they are doing, although I
suspect it has something to do with computers, but that is par for the
course. If he wants me to know, he will tell me, so I must be patient
and not pressure him. But let me tell you, it is not easy when you are
fairly dying of curiosity.

"Oh yes, before I forget, we have been having long, involved
discussions regarding our plans for after the baby is born, just
kicking around several ideas, but do not worry, we should reach a
final decision soon. I will try my best to keep you posted. At any
rate, give our best to the Captain and Dr. McCoy, tell them to hang in
there, it should not be much longer. I miss you all and hope we will
all be together again real soon.

"Love you lots,

"Chris"

---

Uhura received her friend's holovid a week later. Thank God she was
off-shift so she could sit down and watch it instead of having to wait
eight hours. She intended to view it by herself first, then call the
Captain and Dr. McCoy and show it to them.

---

Spock arose early and dressed quietly, intending to leave his wife
peacefully sleeping as he prepared to write a letter to Jim -- this
one handwritten, so as not to disturb her. He bent down and placed a
gentle kiss on her lips, then turned around and headed for the nearby
desk, allowing himself a smile as he watched her sleep. He was certain
that she had never looked as beautiful to him as she did now. Her face
literally glowed ... and he could not have been more pleased with the
progress of her latest pregnancy. If the last two weeks went as well
as the preceding nine months, he and Christine would soon be parents
again -- for the first time since leaving their first child behind
them in the past.

"Greetings, my friend," he began. "Again, please accept my apologies
for the considerable delay, but I have been quite busy. I cannot give
you details at the moment, so I ask that you trust me and believe that
I will tell you all as soon as possible.

"I have contacted Starfleet Command regarding the possibility of
Christine and I bringing our child aboard the Enterprise with us after
he or she is born. Please assure Dr. McCoy that Christine is well and
that the baby is strong and healthy. She is due to give birth sometime
during the ensuing two weeks, but Dr. Corrigan has informed us that
the child could arrive at any time.

"As for the other matter, they are reluctant to allow us to retain our
commissions and raise our child, but I have pointed out that it is
more logical that we be allowed to remain in the service and bring our
child with us since we are too valuable to Starfleet and the
Enterprise to simply resign. I suspect that they will still be
unwilling to grant permission, but will ultimately do so if they wish
to retain our services for the Federation. In that event, you may
expect our return in approximately eight weeks, barring any unforeseen
complications. We have also been asked to attend two young friends at
their koon- ut-kali-if-fee in 3.25 days. I will give you details of
this at the first opportunity ... and inform you of the exact star
date and time of our return as soon as I know for certain what the
decision concerning our request is to be."

He heard Christine stir and sigh deeply, knowing she would soon wake,
so he would have to close his letter and prepare it for transmission.

"I must close here, my friend. I will contact you again at the
earliest possible moment.

"Live long and prosper ...

Spock"

Moments later the letter was ready. He would transmit it before he
departed for the Academy.

---

Christine reached one arm out, feeling for her husband, but her hand
encountered empty space. She yawned deeply, stretched and opened her
eyes, calling his name.

"Spock, are you still here?"

He materialized at her side almost immediately. "Are you all right, my
wife?"

She gave him a reassuring smile when she felt his love and concern
through the bond. "I'm okay. I was just wondering where you were."

"Completing some unfinished business."

"The letter to the Captain, I take it."

"Affirmative. Would you like me to assist you?" he asked when he saw
her trying to get up.

"I would appreciate it, yes."

He slipped one arm under her back, the other under her knees,
effortlessly lifting her from the bed and placing her on her feet
after deftly capturing her lips in a good-morning kiss.

"Don't you think I'm heavy?"

"Negative."

"How can I not be? I feel like I weigh a ton."

"Sixty-eight point one-eight kilograms, to be exact. Considerably less
than a ton."

"I swear, Spock, sometimes you're entirely too nice. Just too good to
be true," Christine observed as she began to dress.

He raised an inquisitive eyebrow at her.

"And don't you ever change!" she laughed, stroking his cheek with a
finger before disappearing into the bathroom to wash her face, brush
her teeth and apply her makeup after dressing.

"Will you be all right while I am away?"

"I intend to do that cataloguing for Dr. Corrigan, so I should be.
Everything I need is right here, so there's no reason for me to leave
the room -- but if I need help, you'll know it."

Chris saw the unspoken worry reflected in her husband's velvet eyes.
"If the project Father and I are working on were not so important, I
would not leave you alone. You are due to give birth very soon; I have
no wish to take unnecessary risks with your life or that of our
child."

"I really don't think anything will happen, but I'll be careful just
the same."

The Vulcan sighed deeply and lifted his wife's face for his kiss. "I
must leave now. If all goes well, you may expect me at the usual
time."

"All right, Spock." They crossed fingers, then he turned for the
transporter booth.

*Please be careful, my wife. Your life and that of our child are very
precious to me.*

*Just as you are precious to me.* He put a loving hand on her cheek;
she held it there for a moment, then kissed it.

*I really must go,* he told her -- but she sensed his reluctance.

*I love you,* she told him.

*And I you,* Chris heard in her mind just before Spock stepped into
the transporter and beamed out.

---

Spock was very reluctant to allow his wife to attend T'Pala at the
latter's wedding within the hour because Christine was so close to her
time that even a little added stress could bring on labor.

*Don't worry, Spock,* he heard in his mind. *I'm a nurse; I know what
I'm doing.*

*I still believe it unwise for you to participate. You are still
unaccustomed to Vulcan's climate, especially in your present
condition.*

*I'll have my medikit with me ... and have already taken an injection
of tri-ox. It should last me through the wedding.*

*Very well,* he sighed, reluctantly giving in.

Christine appeared moments later, long hair piled on top of her head.
She was attractively attired in a pale blue, flowing Vulcan gown and
white sandaled slippers. A tiny heart-shaped gold pendant on a thin
chain and IDIC earrings accompanied her gold wedding ring.

"I'm ready, Spock."

"As am I. Let us leave now."

They beamed directly to the parking lot; he admonished her to stand
and wait while he brought the car. She sighed in affectionate
exasperation but gave in. They took off once Christine was settled,
heading for the arena owned by Salek's family, not far from the one
owned by Spock's. Christine noted an aircar and another ground-car
parked not far away as they pulled in and parked. Spock again helped
her out and the couple went in search of T'Pala and Salek, her
bondmate ... but it was the latter who found them.

"Commander Spock, Lady Christine. Peace and long life to thee," the
younger Vulcan said, respectully saluting the older married couple.

Christine marveled at his uncanny resemblance to Spock. Were they
related in some way -- a distant cousin, perhaps?

"Salek," Spock said, returning the salute. "Live long and prosper."

"Where is T'Pala?" Christine wondered.

"She is dressing. She will join us shortly ... and allow me to thank
you both for consenting to attend us. We have no family living nearby
whom we could ask. I have admired you for many years, Commander, so I
requested that T'Pala ask you and the Lady Christine to attend us once
she informed me of your presence planetside." Salek then raised an
eyebrow reminiscent of Spock upon noting the older woman's advanced
pregnancy. "Are you certain you will be all right, My Lady?"

"I'm a nurse, Salek. I'll be fine," Christine assured him.

"Had I known of your advanced pregnancy, I would have asked T'Pala to
approach someone else," the young man apologized.

Christine smiled. "You're beginning to sound like Spock. Believe me, I
can handle it ... but thank you for your concern, anyway. When is the
ceremony due to begin?"

"Within the next quarter-hour."

Their heads turned at the sound of T'Pala's voice. She was lovely,
tall and slender in a simple but elegant dress with matching white
sandals. Her long black hair was elaborately styled, but her only
jewelry was a gold and silver betrothal necklace from Salek. She
walked up to them, crossing fingers with him and also saluting the
older couple.

"Salek and I thank you for coming."

"We wouldn't miss it," Christine declared.

"It is time. Come, T'Pala," Salek said to his bride, lifting his
fingers to cross with hers again as the two couples made their way to
where the elderly priestess T'Pau was seated. T'Pau officiated at
every Vulcan wedding, particularly those of ruling clans such as
Spock's ... and Christine later discovered that he and Salek were
indeed distantly related. She and Spock then took their designated
places and the ceremony began.

---

"Wasn't it a lovely wedding, Spock?" Christine asked as he helped her
back to the ground-car an hour later. He nodded with a half-smile as
he situated her in the passenger seat and got in behind the wheel.
About a third of the way home she felt the beginnings of labor pains;
she was reluctant to tell Spock but knew she had to before he felt
them through the link. "Spock, I think we'd better go to the
hospital."

"You are feeling labor pains?"

"They just started," came the reply as Christine winced and held her
large belly protectively.

Spock felt her pain and wanted to link with her in a healing meld, but
knew it was more logical to get her to the Science Academy and Dr.
Corrigan's capable hands with all possible speed.

Corrigan was waiting when they arrived, ushering Spock into the
delivery room and gesturing toward the birthing bed, where he would
place his wife after removing her dress, pantyhose and shoes. Slightly
over fourteen hours later they were the proud parents of a beautiful
baby girl with brownish-blonde hair and a fair complexion, but her
father's ears, upswept brows and dark eyes. Christine was thankful
that Spock had been with her, joining his mind to hers in a healing
meld in order to ease the pain of childbirth.

She loved him all the more for doing it, but hated having to inflict
it on him. Tears of joy misted her eyes when the baby was shown to
her.

*Oh, Spock, she's gorgeous -- and best of all, she has your eyes!*

Spock allowed himself a smile at his wife's obvious happiness,
communicating to her his own unspoken joy at once again becoming a
father.

*She is beautiful, Christine. I believe she takes after her mother
that way.*

*Flatterer!* she laughed through the link.

"Thank you, Doctor," Spock said.

Corrigan smiled and shrugged. "Thank you, Spock, for giving me this
opportunity. Something told me that Chris would have the baby today,
so I hightailed it to the hospital -- and when you called, I knew I'd
been right to come."

"Spock, have you called your parents yet?" Christine asked.

*I will do so as soon as you are settled in,* she heard in her mind as
the couple crossed fingers, then the Vulcan leaned down for one last
kiss before his wife fell into a deep sleep.

---

Christine awakened two hours later to warm lips brushing her eyelids,
opening her eyes and smiling into the beloved face above hers.
"Christine."

"Spock."

The couple crossed fingers.

"Mother and Father have arrived. Do you wish to see them?"

At her nod, Spock beckoned toward the door and the older couple
stepped in. Sarek gave his daughter-in-law a half-smile and salute,
then stood quietly next to his son. Amanda leaned down and kissed
Christine.

"How are you, my dear?"

"A little tired yet."

"That's to be expected. Having a baby takes a lot out of you. I
remember how I slept the entire afternoon after having Spock." Amanda
winked at her son; he raised an eyebrow in response.

"Have you seen the baby yet?"

Amanda nodded. "She's beautiful. You and Spock really outdid
yourselves. Have you named her yet?" The older woman smiled her
approval upon learning the baby's name. "How much longer do you intend
to remain on Vulcan?"

"According to Spock, eight more weeks," Chris said.

"I bet you can't wait to get back on board ship," Amanda remarked.

"It will be good to see everyone again," the younger woman admitted.

"Have you obtained permission from Starfleet Command to take your
child on board with you?"

"Final permission was received this morning. It was difficult to
persuade them, but they finally relented," Spock explained.

Christine shot a hard look in his direction. *Why didn't you tell me?*

*There was no opportunity to do so until now,* Spock apologized.

"So they finally realized how valuable the two of you really are.
About time," Amanda observed.

"They just couldn't let us go -- even if it meant bending
regulations," Christine laughed.

"I believe 'special circumstances' is how they phrased it," Spock put
in, again lifting his hand to cross fingers with his wife.

"Who knows, it may start a trend. Perhaps one day they'll allow entire
families aboard starships," his mother speculated.

"Not in this generation, I fear," Spock contradicted.

Christine smiled and winked at her husband, prompting an astonished
eyebrow, then turned back toward her mother-in-law. "Oh yes, before I
forget. Amanda, I've been meaning to ask you. How is T'Pala doing with
her instruction?"

"Quite well. In fact, she is due to receive her Ph.D. as soon as she
returns from her honeymoon."

"My wife, I believe it is time for our evening meal," the elder Vulcan
reminded her.

Amanda looked at the bedside chronometer. "So it is. We've got to go
now, dear ... but we'll be back tomorrow." She again kissed her
daughter-in-law and nodded to her son, who saluted his parents as the
older couple departed, crossing fingers as they stepped out the door.

"I have called for our evening meal to be brought here, my wife,"
Spock informed her.

"Good. I'm famished." *Not to mention wanting very much to be alone
with you,* Christine finished through the link.

Spock raised an eyebrow, then smiled for her alone. *And as soon as we
have had our meal, our daughter is due for hers.*

---
TWO WEEKS LATER
---

"Come," Uhura said, unlocking her door after rising from her bed, clad
in an African print caftan with her black hair loose and falling over
her shoulders.

"Uhura, guess what?" Kirk sounded as excited as a child when he
stepped inside and the doors closed behind him.

"What?"

"I just received a letter from Spock."

"Don't you mean a holovid?"

"No, a letter." He held it up to show her. "Have you heard from
Christine?"

"I got a holovid from her a few days ago."

"Then let's compare notes, see if he said something she didn't -- or
vice versa."

"Shouldn't Dr. McCoy be here, too? He's as much their friend as we
are."

"He should be here any minute now," the Captain remarked casually.

Uhura's buzzer sounded before she could reply. "Come in, Doctor," she
sighed.

A surprised McCoy stepped through the door, brows raised. "How'd y'all
know it was me?"

"I have my ways," Uhura dead panned. "Now shall we get down to
business?"

---

An hour later the three sat around Uhura's cabin discussing the
communications from their two friends. "The stardate on Chris's letter
was two weeks ago, so it wouldn't surprise me if she's had the baby by
now," the Bantu woman said.

"Provided nothing's gone wrong," McCoy put in.

"Bones, don't be so pessimistic. Spock told me that the doctor said
the baby was strong and healthy."

"I hope you're right," came the cautious reply.

Uhura sighed and leaned back in her chair. "I wonder if Chris had a
boy or a girl. She never mentioned one way or the other."

"We should find out pretty soon, since we're due to pick them up in
six weeks," Kirk reminded them.

"It sounds like they succeeded in convincing Fleet Command to let them
bring their child on board ship," McCoy replied, a grin spreading over
his face at the thought of having a baby on board ship for the first
time.

"Spock can be quite persuasive when he chooses to be," the Captain
pointed out as he shifted to a more comfortable position in his chair.

"Don't I know it," the Chief Surgeon wryly observed with a telltale
twinkle in his eye. "But Chris is no slouch on that score, either ...
not when she can get Spock back in spite of his determination to just
walk away."

"Well, to get back to the subject," Uhura broke in. "It's going to be
wonderful seeing them again. Do you realize it's been almost a year
and a half? We have a lot of time to make up for."

McCoy heartily concurred. "That's for sure. Well, I'd better get
cracking on fixing up part of Sickbay as a nursery. See y'all later."

"Later," Kirk and Uhura said in unison as the Doctor disappeared
through the doors. A few minutes later the Captain stood up and headed
for the doors as well.

"I'm going to have some dinner and a shower, then hit the sack. We've
had a tough day; it's time to relax."

"Tell me about it," the lovely dark woman dead panned as she stood up
and stretched her sleek body. "I'm going to take a shower too and go
to bed. I'll see you in the morning, Captain."

Kirk watched Uhura walk away, unable to help noting the sensuous sway
of her hips. He moved to the door by sheer willpower. If I don't leave
now, Spock's child might have company in the nursery. For the
umpteenth time, Kirk wished there was no such thing as the
no-fraternization reg.

He'd lost count of how many cold showers he'd taken because of it! How
could Starfleet put a mixed crew on a starship in deep space for five
years and then expect them not to socialize with each other when
off-duty -- and yes, even 'fraternize' ... intimately and on a regular
basis? What did Fleet Command think they were, a bunch of robots?

We're flesh and blood, for God's sake. If we see an opportunity for
some loving, we're naturally going to jump at it -- so to speak. Hell,
if a Vulcan like Spock can give in to the pleasures of the flesh, then
even marry and have children while in the service, kindly tell me how
Fleet bureaucrats figure a co-ed crew of *Humans* gets along while
confined to a starship for five years! Oh, the hell with it. I can't
think straight on an empty stomach, Jim declared to himself.

He forced the whole crazy bureaucratic mess out of his mind, mentally
figuring his dinner menu as he stepped into the turbolift and told the
computer, "Officers' Mess," then leaned against the 'lift wall and
closed his eyes.

---

The next six weeks passed all too quickly for the small family on
Vulcan. Almost before they knew it, the Enterprise had arrived and
assumed standard orbit. Fortunately Spock had completed the
aforementioned project with his father two days previously, having to
spend many a night working in order to complete it before his
scheduled departure.

"Do you have everything, Chris?" Amanda asked as she noted her
daughter-in-law's approach with the last of her and the baby's
belongings.

"I believe so," was the reply. "How is T'Aimee?" Chris glanced
lovingly at her infant daughter nestled in her grandmother's arms.

"Sleeping." Amanda kissed her granddaughter's forehead. "You know,
T'Aimee is a perfect name. I've never seen a more beautiful child ...
except maybe for Spock when he was a baby." The two women exchanged a
knowing smile.

Spock came up to them at that moment, crossing fingers with his wife.
"They are standing by in the Transporter Room. Are you ready, my
wife?"

"Ready as I'll ever be," Christine said, holding out her arms to
receive her daughter. Amanda reluctantly relinquished the sleeping
infant to her mother's waiting arms.

"You have no idea how much I hate to let her -- or any of you -- go.
Heaven only knows how long it will be this time before I see you all
again." Amanda tried and failed to keep tears from her voice at the
prospect of yet another long separation from her son and daughter-in-
law, not to mention missing so much of her only grandchild's life.

"We'll miss you too, believe me. I'll write you as often as I can,"
Christine promised.

"And send holographs as often as possible," the older woman admonished
as she gathered her daughter-in-law and grandchild into her arms for
one last hug and kiss.

"Spock, call the ship and have us beamed aboard ... quickly." Tears
were obvious in the younger woman's voice too. "This is tearing me
apart."

"Farewell, Mother," Spock said, saluting her. "Live long and prosper."

"Peace and long life, my son," Amanda replied, giving her three loved
ones a watery smile as she returned his salute. "Please take care of
yourself, Christine and the baby."

Spock nodded in acknowledgment and said, "Energize," into his
communicator, giving his tearful wife a comforting squeeze with his
free arm just before they began to dematerialize.

---

Their next sight was of Kirk, McCoy, Scott and Uhura waiting for them.
They had scarcely stepped off the transporter platform before they
were enveloped in handshakes, embraces and kisses -- even Spock. Uhura
managed to reach Christine first, giving her friend a warm hug before
relieving her of her tiny burden.

"You look wonderful, Chris. I've missed you so much! Is this your
baby? He ... or is it she? ... is beautiful. What's the baby's name?"

Christine deftly extricated herself, laughing and crying at the same
time. "Let me catch my breath first, okay? The baby's a girl; her name
is T'Aimee."

"Appropriate." Uhura smiled her approval. "She's gorgeous. Caring for
her will be a treat."

The next to descend on Christine was McCoy, enfolding his friend and
colleague in a bear hug. "I declare, Chris, you've never looked
better. I can't tell you how much I've missed you!"

"I missed you too, Leonard," came the reply once Chris could breathe
again.

"Where's your baby?"

"Nyota has her."

"Her? You mean you had a girl?"

Christine nodded; McCoy shook his head in wonder. "Leave it to Uhura
to get her innings in first!"

"Come on, Bones, don't hog her," came Kirk's indignant voice. "Let me
say hello, too."

The Doctor reluctantly moved away to let the Captain greet Christine.
"You look great. Marriage and motherhood really seem to agree with
you."

After they had shared a brief hug, he looked around for Spock, finding
the Vulcan deep in conversation with McCoy and Scotty. As for Uhura,
the Bantu was still holding the tiny girl and crooning a Swahili
lullaby. Soon even Scotty got into the act, gently kissing the baby's
forehead.

"Ah ha' ne'er seen such a bonnie wee lass, Mr. Spock. You an' Miss
Chapel really outdid y'rselves. Wha' is y'r wee lass's name?"

"T'Aimee," came the reply from the proud father.

"Oh yes, Spock, Chris," McCoy broke in. "The nursery's all ready if
you'd like to take a look at it."

Spock answered for them. "Let us settle into our quarters first,
Doctor."

"No hurry, Spock. Come down whenever you're ready."

---

Everything went well for the first six weeks back, the Enterprise
somehow managing to avoid any major problem or trouble. A minor
miracle, if you ask me, Kirk thought. That is, until stardate 5934.13.
At 1126 hours, the bridge crew felt a shaking under their feet, giving
each other questioning looks. "Uhura, what the hell was that?" Jim
demanded.

"I believe it was an explosion on one of the lower decks," came her
stiffly professional reply, ill-concealing Uhura's concern for the
safety of everyone in the immediate vicinity, especially Chris and
little T'Aimee, just three and a half months old. But she had no way
of knowing whether or not they had been spared ... and would worry
until she did. "Mr. Spock?"

"Sensors indicate that an explosion resulted from an incorrect mixture
of two extremely volatile chemicals. Another is due within moments."

The Vulcan's voice was as stiffly professional as Uhura's had been,
illogically wishing that he knew whether or not his wife and infant
daughter were still alive. At this point, he felt Christine's presence
through their bond, taking comfort in the knowledge that she was
alive, though badly hurt due to the sharp pain he had felt along with
it two point five-three minutes ago. She was hurt, but he was unable
to go to her, help her ... unless--

"Captain, I request permission to assist in the rescue effort."

Kirk saw the worry in his friend's eyes ... worry not only for crewmen
in the vicinity, but his wife and child. "Granted. Go ahead, Spock."

It was all the Vulcan could do not to run to the turbolift. He managed
to make it there before the area was sealed off, searching for his
wife while the disaster team searched for breaches and other injured.
He found McCoy outside the site of the explosion, a medical lab
adjoining the newly installed nursery. Spock noted with relief that
his daughter was sleeping peacefully in McCoy's arms. Thank the gods
she was safe ... now where was Christine?

"There isn't much left in there, Spock," the Chief Surgeon explained.
"The nursery's badly damaged, and the lab's a total loss. It'll take
hours, if not days, to clean up and refurbish."

"Doctor, sensors indicate that another explosion is imminent, so I
must go in and see if anyone is trapped -- and rescue them if
possible. That reminds me ... have you seen Christine?"

"The last I remember, she was working in the lab ... " McCoy turned
pale, stopping in mid-sentence. "Oh, my God, if she was caught in the
explosion -- ! All I was thinking of was getting the baby out. I ran
in and grabbed her, then got out here just as it hit ... " The
Doctor's voice had risen and he was beginning to babble.

Spock silenced him with a lifted hand. "Then I must locate her."

"No, Spock. You might be killed in the next explosion -- and if
anything's happened to Chris, you must consider your little girl. She
needs at least one parent alive."

"Doctor, take care of her. I will return soon." The next few moments
were a blur to McCoy; he scarcely knew that Spock had moved before
realizing the latter's intentions.

"Spock, no!" the Doctor yelled -- but the Vulcan was already gone.

---

Spock was oblivious of the actions of the disaster team as he searched
through the debris of the wrecked lab. He anxiously sought his wife's
presence in his mind after having lost it during the conversation with
McCoy -- thankful when she finally answered.

*Spock! You've got to get out of here! It's going to blow again any
second!*

*Not without you,* he replied stubbornly.

*I'm trapped beneath two pieces of heavy equipment. My legs are broken
and I have bad internal injuries. You can't save me, Spock. Think of
T'Aimee. She needs you.*

*I need *you*,* came his reply.

He located her at last, her lower body pinned by the aforementioned
equipment. "Christine..." He touched her cheek gently; it was covered
with a mixture of dirt, blood and perspiration.

"Spock ... my husband ... " she whispered before her head dropped
limply into his other hand, eyes closing in pain.

*I will free you,* he told her, her head still resting on his left
hand.

*No!* he heard her mind-voice shout. *Don't be a fool, Spock. Save
yourself while you still can!*

*If you don't go, neither of us go,* he declared after gently lowering
her head to the floor, attempting to move the heavy equipment off her
with his Vulcan strength.

He was the strongest person on board ship, but this equipment was
heavier than anything he had ever attempted to move before ... yet he
had to do it somehow, had to save the woman he loved. There, one was
off. Now for the other. As Vulcan as he was most of the time, Spock
knew he was capable of acting illogically if someone he loved was in
danger ... and Christine was his wife, the mother of his child. He
wasn't needed on the bridge at the moment, and wanted to be nearby,
close to her -- whether he could help or not.

*Dammit, Spock, I don't want you to die, too!*

He felt her anger, pain and tears, but couldn't let them distract him.
Just a little more ...

*Can you move yet?* he asked her.

*No,* came her answer.

*One moment.*

With one mighty heave, he shoved the other piece of equipment aside so
he could reach her. After picking her up tenderly, Spock carefully
made his way to the door. As they reached it, the remainder of the
volatile chemicals exploded, throwing the Vulcan and his badly
injured, semiconscious wife against the Deck Seven bulkhead. The last
thing Spock remembered before blacking out was McCoy yelling for
medics and stretchers.

---

Spock woke up with a blinding headache, lying on a Sickbay bed. He
vaguely remembered striking his head, tearing a long gash on his
forehead. Yes, the plastiskin was there ... but even if it hadn't
been, his own injury didn't matter. The important thing was that
Christine had been saved. The Vulcan supported himself on his elbows,
ignoring the painful throbbing in his head as he looked around the
room for his wife. She was nowhere to be seen; he was alone in the
room. Where was she?

*Christine, where are you?* Only silence answered him; he sensed that
she was unconscious, probably under sedation. Even with his Vulcan
physique, Spock felt weak, yet he could not rest until he knew whether
or not she would be all right.

"Doctor," he called softly. "Dr. McCoy ... "

But it was M'Benga who responded, gently pushing Spock back onto the
bed when he tried to rise. "Lie still, Spock. You've had a nasty blow
to your head."

"But my wife -- I must ... "

"She's in surgery. Dr. McCoy is with her. He says it'll take time, but
she should be all right."

The black doctor hoped the Vulcan hadn't detected his white lie. The
look on his colleague's face had been grim. Christine had bad internal
injuries as well as profuse internal bleeding. She also had several
broken bones, but those were the least of their worries. It was
doubtful she would live through the night, even with the surgery, much
less recover -- but Spock had his own problems at the moment. It
wouldn't help him to worry about her when there was nothing he could
do to help.

---

Spock was discharged from Sickbay within a day of the explosion after
coming out of a healing trance, the gash on his forehead all but gone
and the headache only a memory. Now all that mattered was that
Christine recovered. Every day after going off-shift, he headed for
Sickbay and the chair beside her bed. She lay pale and still, every
bodily function monitored by machines ... but the important thing was
that she was alive. He had repeatedly tried to contact her mind, but
she was too heavily sedated.

Both legs were knitting after application of lasers, the rest of her
lower body covered by plastiskin. Because of the lasers, it now took
only a fraction as much time for broken bones to heal as it used to
... but would still take at least three days due to the multiple
fractures. She had also needed a lot of blood during the operation to
replace what she had lost. Spock eventually learned that his wife had
spent six hours on the operating table. McCoy had had to first stop
the profuse internal bleeding caused by ruptured arteries in her lower
abdomen before he could make repairs in the damaged organs ... but
stopping the bleeding was a piece of cake compared to the intricate,
delicate repairs he had needed to make.

In view of her fractured pelvis, it had been a sheer miracle that the
delicate reproductive organs had not been damaged. The kidneys and
intestines had taken the worst of it. Her stomach had had a small
wound, but Leonard had been able to close that with the small
protoplaser. He had been obliged to use the large version on
everything else, then heavily sedate her. McCoy and M'Benga worked in
shifts until Christine was out of danger, checking often to make sure
her readings remained stable. Spock, of course, was nearby at all
times other than the eight hours he was on-shift, remaining even for
meals, only releasing her hand long enough to eat.

Uhura had the chance to care for little T'Aimee sooner than she
expected, having been obliged to set up a temporary home for the child
in her own quarters until the nursery was again fit for habitation,
which was the better part of a week later. The lab would take almost a
month to get back into shape. Uhura was one of the few Spock trusted
around his baby girl other than himself and the two doctors. The
little girl was on a diet of half formula and half mother's milk
(fortunately Christine's breasts could be pumped as needed without
aggravating her injured ribs) and was thriving under Uhura's, her
father's and the two doctors' care.

Spock would often feed his small daughter after his own meal, sitting
beside his wife's bed as he did so, carrying on a conversation as
though she was conscious. He was uncertain as to whether or not it was
doing any good, but Dr. McCoy had assured him that it certainly
couldn't hurt. Actually, almost a week passed before Christine's legs
fully healed; the ribs and pelvis would remain wrapped in a thin but
strong body cast for at least another week. Spock insisted on helping
with the exercising of his wife's arms and legs despite the more
effective muscle stimulators close at hand.

Through it all, he continued his attempts to contact her mind, and to
date had failed each time ... but had no intention of giving up. He
would eventually succeed -- and then Christine, his Christine, would
be back with him once again.

---

Upon Spock's discharge from Sickbay, McCoy told him just how serious
Christine's injuries had been, that someone as badly injured as she
usually didn't survive long even with surgery ... and it was a miracle
in itself that she had survived that. It was at the two-week interval
that her condition had improved enough for Leonard to upgrade it from
"serious" to "fair".

Spock hoped she would soon be strong enough for a mind-link, for her
recovery would be hastened with a healing meld. In addition, he missed
her presence inside him ... and beside him in their bed. That is,
during the rare times he actually deigned to return to their quarters.
Usually it was far too empty and lonely there without her. The main
thing keeping him going aside from his work was his beautiful baby
girl, who resembled his dear wife more with every passing day, even
with her brown eyes, elegantly pointed ears and upswept eyebrows --
perfect miniatures of his own.

---

Several more days (Spock estimated 3.5) passed before he received a
pleasant surprise. Christine's mind was attempting to contact his --
the first time he had felt her presence inside of him in over three
weeks. He had been unsure that he was getting through to her at all
because she had been so heavily sedated due to the extensive surgery.

*Spock?* came the hesitant query.

*Christine,* he replied, unbidden yet unashamed tears of happiness and
relief misting his eyes. *I have missed you, my wife.*

*I felt your mind attempting to contact mine many times, my husband. I
wanted to respond with every fiber of my being, but could not. In
spite of that, the knowledge that you were near, feeling your love,
gave me the strength to keep going.*

He reached for her hand and brought it to his lips, then his cheek. To
her surprise, her eyes opened and she smiled at him. *How is T'Aimee?
Is she safe?*

*Safe and sound. Dr. McCoy rescued her.*

*Thank God. Who's taking care of her now?*

*Miss Uhura is proving to be an excellent surrogate mother.*

*Do you think Leonard would let me see her now that I'm awake?*

*I will ask him if you wish ... and I am glad that you are going to be
all right.*

*Just as I am glad that *you* weren't hurt badly. I think I would have
died for sure if anything had happened to you. As it was, you and
T'Aimee gave me the will to live. I couldn't die and leave you both.
As you once said, it would be illogical.*

*Quiet now, my wife. You must rest.*

Spock smiled at his wife as she lifted her hand, extending two fingers
to cross with his before it dropped back to the bed. He gently picked
it up, entwining their fingers together once again -- then leaned over
to kiss her. His heart-rate accelerated as he felt her response. It
had been so long ... how he had missed the warm sweetness of her lips
beneath his own! He shivered when he felt her fingers stroke the back
of his neck and run through his dark hair.

*Spock, please hold me. I need to feel you close to me.*

The Vulcan couldn't bring himself to protest, though he was certain he
should have even as he carefully situated himself beside her. He held
her with one arm as closely as her healing body permitted while the
fingers of his other hand automatically found the nerve points on her
face for the long-delayed healing meld. Her head found its way to his
shoulder, the fingers of his other hand gently stroking her hair
before returning to hold her close. She felt his desire through the
bond, wishing more than anything that she could give in, but knew it
was far too soon.

*Spock, I don't like to say this, but you'd better stop before we
start something we can't finish. I have no idea how long it will be
before we can make love again.*

*I suppose you are right,* he conceded. *But it will not be easy.*

*Tell me about it!* Christine exclaimed through the link.

It was good to feel her presence in his mind once again, not to
mention feel her beside him again -- and best of all join with her in
a healing meld. The physical joining would just have to wait. Spock
forced himself to simply hold her gently, eventually managing to fall
asleep in her arms ... the first real sleep he had had since the
explosion.

---

It was fortunate for both that Spock had awakened before McCoy
arrived; otherwise the Chief Surgeon would have given them both hell.
Christine for asking Spock to lie down beside her and hold her before
she was fully recovered from her injuries, and Spock for agreeing to
it ... even if it made it easier for him to join with her in a healing
meld. As it was, he was in his customary spot, the chair beside her
bed, holding her hand as usual. McCoy had brought the baby, then
discreetly slipped out to allow the new family some privacy. So
quietly, in fact, that neither Spock nor Christine had any idea he had
gone until the latter had addressed a question to him and received
only silence in reply.

Chris gave her husband a questioning look; he raised an eyebrow in
response. "I wonder when he left."

"I have no idea," was the reply. "But perhaps we should be grateful he
has done so -- particularly in view of what transpired 6.4 hours ago."

"What happened 6.4 hours ago, Spock?" the Chief Surgeon's stern voice
suddenly cut in. "M'Benga never mentioned anything when he left."

Christine flushed guiltily and tried her best to look innocent while
Spock put on his best Vulcan face -- but it didn't fool the wily McCoy
one bit. "Come on, 'fess up, you two. I can tell you're hiding
something just by looking at you."

"Exactly what do you suspect us of having done that we would deem it
necessary to conceal from you, Doctor?" Spock's voice was smooth and
even.

"I don't know ... yet. But you might as well tell me -- and face the
music, as it were, since I'm going to find out sooner or later
anyway." The crusty doctor gave the Vulcan a hard look; Spock sighed
and reluctantly admitted defeat.

"Very well, Doctor, if you insist. Christine requested that I join her
on her bed and hold her until she fell asleep."

"And you agreed? What's the matter with you, Spock? Have you any idea
of the risk you were taking with Chris in her present condition?"
McCoy sounded both angry and concerned.

"I could not have refused her, Doctor," the Vulcan replied
defensively. "In addition, it made it easier for me to join with
Christine in a healing meld. Would you have done any differently in
the same situation?"

"I suppose not," the Chief Surgeon sighed. "But that still doesn't
excuse the fact that you never bothered to call and let me know that
she had awakened."

"It was very late; we did not wish to disturb your rest. It was also
necessary that our minds remain together for several hours in order
for her to derive the most benefit from the healing meld."

"Maybe so ... but for God's sake, Spock, I'm Chief Surgeon on this
ship! Being 'disturbed' on account of a seriously ill or injured
patient in the middle of the night comes with the territory in my line
of work. Besides, you know it would soon be my turn to monitor Chris
and make sure her vital signs remained stable."

"They remained stable, I assure you. There was no need for concern."

"Oh, really? And what would you have done if they hadn't? You're not a
doctor."

"Perhaps not -- but I am a scientist ... and science is one of the
many aspects of medicine, is it not? My medical knowledge may not be
as extensive as yours, but it would have been sufficient to maintain
Christine's life until you or Dr. M'Benga could arrive. In addition,
it is a requirement for all graduates of Starfleet Academy to have a
basic knowledge of medicine in the event of an emergency."

Christine couldn't help but smile at the look on McCoy's face. She
sensed that he was wishing he could have argued the point, but was
unable to. As Leonard would have said, Spock had gotten the last word
... again!

"That's enough, Spock. I get the point."

"Excuse me," Christine interrupted. "But would one of you be kind
enough to tell me what time it is?"

"I believe it is approximately 1030 hours, my wife," Spock
automatically replied.

"That late, huh? Then I believe it is time for our daughter to have
her breakfast." Christine then undid her Sickbay gown and put the
infant to her right breast before either Spock or McCoy could make a
move.

Leonard looked at her incredulously. "Chris, what do you think you're
doing?"

"I'm feeding my baby. What does it look like I'm doing?"

"We could have asked Uhura to come in and do that. You're still not
fully recovered," the Chief Surgeon protested.

"Why bother Nyota when I'm perfectly capable of feeding my own child?
And for Heaven's sake, Leonard, you sound just like a mother hen,"
Christine retorted. "And to think I actually thought Spock was fussy!
Believe me, I know what I'm doing. I've been medically trained too, in
case you've forgotten."

"Spock ... " McCoy grasped at straws.

"There is nothing I can do, Doctor. You know as well as I do how
stubborn Christine can be when she has made up her mind about
something."

"Then she must have learned it from you, because you are stubbornness
personified. So much so that I truly believe that you could make the
proverbial mule back up," McCoy shot back.

"In that case, allow me to state my belief that she could just as
easily have learned it from you," the Vulcan coolly pointed out,
illogically pleased at this opportunity to argue with his favorite
opponent.

"Me? Why, you self-righteous, arrogant, green-blooded son-of-a ... "
McCoy sputtered.

"Spock, Leonard, please. That's enough!" Christine's tone cut them
both off at the pass, so to speak. "Besides, I'm finished feeding
T'Aimee. Would one of you please burp her for me and put her down to
sleep again?"

Before Spock could make a move, McCoy had placed a towel over his
right shoulder and was holding the tiny girl, patting her gently on
the back until she gave a healthy "burp" and settled her small head on
his shoulder, promptly falling asleep.

"Okay, Spock, you can take her now."

Spock raised an indignant eyebrow as he held out his arms to receive
his child. "Doctor, I am equally capable of caring for my daughter as
you are."

"Oh? That wasn't the impression I got on Capella Four. As I recall,
you didn't even know how to hold a baby, much less care for one. Nor
did you even want anything to do with the baby."

Spock was all ready to scathe the Doctor with a sharp retort even as
he positioned the warm and limp, deeply sleeping child on his own
shoulder when he felt a warning in his mind.

*No, Spock. It's not worth arguing about.*

*But I *am* capable of caring for our child,* he declared.

*I know, and that's what counts. And you might as well stop trying to
change Leonard. You'll never be able to do it, any more than he could
ever change you.*

The Vulcan sighed but had to agree. *I suppose you are right, my
wife.*

*You know I am. Now go put T'Aimee down and come back to me. There's
something I want to ask you.*

*Very well. I will return in a few moments.*

---

Spock was incredulous -- no, 'shocked' is a more accurate term -- when
he learned what his wife wanted, but could no more have dissuaded her
than he could have stopped a sun from going nova. (Of course, it
should be said that he really didn't try very hard to dissuade her,
either.)

---

It took the better part of the next two months (six weeks, to be
exact) but Christine did eventually recover. The main things which
McCoy could attribute to her almost miraculous healing was the meld
with Spock, as well as her extraordinary will to live ... coupled with
her deep love for her husband and child. Speaking of children, barely
a month after her discharge from Sickbay, the Chief Surgeon was
flabbergasted to discover that Christine was four weeks pregnant --
again.

How in the hell did she do it? he wondered.

He eventually managed to piece everything together and deduced that it
must have happened about a month or so into her recovery period, at
which point she ought to have been still too weak to be a satisfactory
lover to her husband. But she had obviously managed to convince Spock
that she was strong enough to make love with him ... and it was a
cinch that they'd certainly had plenty of privacy and therefore
opportunities, to do it.

Of course, if a couple was really determined, nothing would stop them
... least of all a trivial thing like one of them being laid up in the
hospital -- or in this case, Sickbay. He could only surmise that the
healing meld must have done its work even better than the Doctor had
ever seen it work before.

I was more right than I knew when I told Jim that once Chris made up
her mind to get Spock back, there was no way in the universe he could
have resisted her, even if he'd wanted to ... and from what I've seen,
it's obvious that he didn't really want to, McCoy thought with a
wicked grin.

Just as I had been right when I told Chris that with her
determination, she'd not only win Spock back and have more children,
but that they would have a long, solid and loving marriage -- one to
rival even that of his parents Sarek and Amanda. And what do you know?
I even got the last word again! Pretty damn good for an illogical
Human, if I *do* say so myself ...

---

The End