#leonard mccoy x oc

[runninggolden]

Certified ‘Pain In The Ass’ (part 1)

Leonard McCoy x female OC (can be read as x reader)

word count: 3530

a/n: Hello! I’m writing again! This is an old fic of mine that didn’t work out. But I liked it a lot so I decided to strip it down to its bare bones and write it all over again and now it works! I’m still editing part 2 but it should be up soon! I’m on AO3 as RunningGolden :)

This was originally an x reader fic but I accidentally gave the reader too much personality so I just made her an OC. Whoops. You can still imagine her as ‘reader’, I don’t describe her looks at all and I only gave her a surname. Her personality is very strong, though.

This is sort of enemies to friends to lovers. The enemies part is more of a backstory though.

summary: Her friendship with Leonard was a strange one. They’d banter a lot, she’d playfully joke with him and he’d roll his eyes and occasionally fail to fight a smile. He’d drag her to med-bay everytime she even got a papercut and she pretended to be inconvenienced by it. Oh, and she was deeply, embarrassingly, in love with him. (part 1 of 2) 

warnings: profanity, injuries, blood, aliens, danger, OC is a little shit lmao, they’re both idiots, literally children pulling each others pigtails, almost painful pining

___________________________________________________

When she met Leonard McCoy for the first time, she quickly discovered how easy it was to annoy him. One, admittedly dumb, comment and he whirled on her with a scowl that seemed to permanently reside on his face and frustration seeping out his pores as he snarled; “Damn it, I’m a doctor not a frog! The bio bed is stuck 5 meters up in the air and you suggest ‘jumping’?! Why does everyone insist on being a pain in my ass today?!” 

She laughed in his face.

That clearly wasn't the reaction the doctor expected if his look of disgruntled confusion was anything to go off. He looked her up and down, seemingly only then realizing that he did not recognize the person he just scolded.

"Hold on, who the hell are you?"

She smirked, his obvious bad mood dangling in front of her face like candy on a string. And boy, did she have a sweet tooth. "Oh, you haven't heard? I’m Chief Security Officer Flynn. They hired me to be a pain in your ass. Anyway, have you tried a trampoline?"

Despite her new job on the Enterprise keeping her quite busy, being Leonard McCoy's certified ‘pain in the ass’ was a role she took up enthusiastically. Annoying the notable doctor quickly became her favorite hobby. Bothering him in med-bay, crashing his drinking sessions with the Captain and proclaiming something dumb to get him to argue with her (much to the Captain's amusement), offering more useless comments for him to rant about. It was all a fun distraction from an otherwise stressful move to a new starship.

It was simple, really. A simple game, a simple back-and-forth, a simple source of entertainment.

But it didn’t take her very long to discover that there was absolutely nothing simple about Doctor Leonard McCoy.

There was just something special about him that kept her coming back for more. She couldn't stop seeking him out, bantering with him, learning things about him, trying to get him to laugh at her jokes. It didn't take very long for her to forget it was supposed to be simple.

He didn't make it easy, either. He claimed to absolutely loathe her and immediately seized any chance to argue with her, to complain about her, to glare at her. And of all the things she's learned about him, his god-awful (and overly dramatic) acting skills might just be her favorite. 

You didn't have to be a genius to tell that despite his colorful language, his words were never harsh. He scowled like he got paid for it but his expressions were never cold. And for someone who claimed that she was the unfunniest person in the universe, he sure covered up a lot of laughs with ill-placed coughs.

If you had asked anyone on the ship, they would’ve told you that he enjoyed their arguments even more than she did.

Perhaps she was also a distraction to him. Perhaps life in between all the action on the Enterprise was so dreadfully boring, that her antics kept him somewhat entertained. Perhaps underneath all the cynical theatrics, he liked having her around.

It took a year into the Enterprise's new mission for them to develop a strange sort of friendship. He begrudgingly made space for her in his life and she toned down her antics. From time to time he stopped acting like she was the bane of his existence and every now and then she opened the floor to friendly conversations. She’d playfully joke with him and he’d roll his eyes and occasionally fail to fight a smile. He’d drag her to med-bay everytime she even got a papercut and she pretended to be inconvenienced by it. They still bantered a lot, but it was softer, somehow.

And it took one moment for her to mess it all up.

She made him laugh, really laugh, and suddenly it all made sense. It was all building up to this, all the bad jokes, all the pitiful attempts, they all came to this moment. And god was it worth it. He let out a hearty, belly-aching laugh and his eyes crinkled at the corners and it was like the stars aligned and heavens opened up. She finally saw the light and was lit up by it from the inside, her heart engulfed in flame by a single sound. It lasted only a moment and she was immediately thirsting for more. Thirsting like she was sweltering in the desert and the only thing that could quench her thirst was hearing that goddamn laugh again. Preferably on her lips. Whilst wrapped in his embrace.

Of course, of course this is what it was about the entire goddamn time!

Oh. Oh, I am so screwed.

-

“Leonard! It’s your favorite patient!” Her call was followed by an exasperated sigh and the screech of a chair. The Med-Bay was quiet that day, only a handful of people littered about and the only notable sound that could be heard was the occasional cough.

“What did you do this ti-“ Leonard abruptly stopped mid-sentence as soon as he rounded the corner and spotted her standing in the doorway clutching her bloody hand. “My god, what the hell did you do?!” He ran up to her and gently took her hand to examine it. She smiled at him sheepishly.

“Challenged Sulu to a duel… again… we got a little carried off.” She chuckled and he gave her the look. His famous ‘I can’t believe I have to deal with this bullshit’ look that most people would whither from in shame. Not her though, no, she reveled in it. She wasn't sure if it was because of her persistent desire to annoy him or that she just liked being in the center of his attention. Perhaps a bit of both.

"Again?! Last time he almost cut you in half and you decided to have another go?!" His arms folded disapprovingly across his chest as he glared at her. Apparently her cut wasn't life-threatening enough to skip a lecture.

She scoffed. “Oh, relax, I was fine, he barely grazed me.”

“You were out of commission for a week!”

“Yeah, because you banned me from moving!” 

“You would’ve ripped your stitches out!”

"I would've been careful!" 

"You seriously expect me to believe that?"

Fair point. “Okay, fine. I promise to never again intentionally get into another sword fighting duel with potentially the greatest sword fighter in outer space.” She promised in a flat voice, fingers crossed behind her back, before grimacing and quickly adding; "Don't tell Sulu I said that."

“You’re a menace.” He grumbled with an eye roll as he led her to the nearest med-bed and started to clean the wound. A stray hair rebelled from his neatly combed hair and she couldn’t help but think how adorable he looked as he continued berating her, each comment decorated with increasingly creative insults.

“Oh, Dr. McCoy… I love it when you talk dirty to me.” She breathed and sent him with a sultry look, successfully stopping his rant short. She snickered as she felt his hands still on hers for a moment before he fixed her with a glare. He drew in a deep breath and opened his mouth to say something but nothing came out. He shook his head with a sigh, and went back to treating her wound.

Huh, that was weird. Managing to fluster Bones was no easy feat, but shutting him up? That’s rare. She could proudly say she's done it twice before, but this one felt different. Feeling like she was on the verge of something awkward, she decided to change the subject as quickly as possible.

“Besides, next time… I’m finally going to beat Sulu at his own game.” She declared, breathing an inward sigh of relief as he immediately latched onto the distraction.

“What happened to ‘never getting into another sword fight’?” He narrowed his eyes.

“I crossed my fingers when I said that.”

He threw his hands up in the air. “I cannot fathom how someone would let you be the Chief Security Officer on this ship!” He exclaimed dramatically, not for the first time, but only earned a grin from her.

“Obviously someone saw how awesome I am.”

“Obviously!” He repeated sarcastically. She snorted and watched his hands work on the cut Sulu so graciously gave her, admiring the way his long fingers gently applied a healing ointment on her wound.  His hands were steady, precise, practiced in the art of taking care of someone. His fingernails were better manicured than hers could ever hope to be, cut with a surgeon's precision. He had a few scars, faint white lines decorating his skin, along with a few freckles. His touch was soft, so soft she barely felt it, and she wondered, not for the first time, how a man with such a strong personality could be so gentle. Be so kind.

Despite his sardonic wit, brusque demeanor and his immense hatred for stupidity, Leonard kept surprising her with just how big his heart was. He was compassionate and cared deeply about all living things. He could curse your entire bloodline whilst nursing you gently back to health. He could hate space with a burning passion but still follow you into a black hole to make sure you were alright. They could be in the middle of an argument about her clumsiness (or lack thereof, in her opinion) and he’d still grab her just as she was about to fall over, which would’ve won him the argument. She thought about that moment embarrassingly often.

One of his hands picked hers up and cradled it, warm and comforting, as the other picked up a dermal regenerator and let the soft glow illuminate her hand. She barely registered the warmth from the regenerator, the feel of Leonard’s hands was way too distracting. She tried not to think about the fact that he did not need to hold her like that, she’s seen him use the dermal regenerator a million times by now and he never touches someone during the process. It was unnecessary. Yet there he was…

Her heart was hammering in her chest. Silently cursing, she tried to regain control over her traitorous body before the doctor could notice. She was fighting the urge to shiver… and the instinct to grab his face and kiss him.

I’m gonna go insane. I’m gonna go insane because of Leonard’s McCoy’s hands.

“Did you remember to take your medicine this morning?” He suddenly asked, frowning at the report on his tricorder. She shook herself, realizing he had finished wrapping her hand whilst she had her private freak-out. He still gently held her hand with one of his, thumb stroking her palm as the screen distracted him. 

She fought the urge to scream and melt into a puddle, simultaneously. 

“Uh… yeah! Of course.” She lied. Crap. She totally forgot. He didn’t seem to believe her in the slightest.

“Oh, really?” He arched an eyebrow and stared her down. Usually she could stare back all day with the same stubborn attitude as him, but she was so distracted by the feel of his thumb - he's still doing it! - and silently cursed when she felt her face heat up. Looking away, she decided to just give in.

“Okay, I forgot.” She mumbled and he threw his hands in the air. Her shoulders subtly sagged as his hand left hers. Thank god, having a heart attack because of a thumb would've been embarrassing.

“I swear to god, do I need to physically come to your quarters and shove them down your throat so you’ll remember?” He shook his head at her and she would’ve thought he was furious if it wasn’t for the way he looked at her.

That look. God, she knew she had an unhealthy addiction for the man but he did not help when he looked at her like that. Like he was secretly loving this ridiculous thing between them, too. Like their bantering fueled him as much as it fueled her. She mentally begged her face to return to its original color and looked at him pointedly, with crossed arms, faking bravado. His eyebrows inched up as he mimicked her movements.

“I’d like to see you try.” She tried to sound intimidating but couldn‘t fight the smile growing on her face.

“Oh, I will.” He said, leaning forward, the corners of his mouth twitching. For a moment they simply stared at each other, competing in a wordless game, eyes locked in a heated battle, when the sudden clearing of a throat prompted them to look up at a grinning Jim.

“Okay, so whenever you guys are done flirting, I need you to go on a mission.” His grin grew wider as the two people in front of him blushed and Leonard took a step back, furrowing his brows and fiddling with his tricorder. She was about to retort when the latter part of Jim’s sentence registered and her heart stuttered for a different reason.

“A mission? I’m in.” She beamed and was about to jump off the bed when a hand stopped her.

“Oh ho, no, you’re not, you’re hurt.” Leonard kept his hand on her arm to hold her in place. Again with the touching! She rolled her eyes. 

“I’m fine, see?” She flexed her bandaged hand for them to see, it was still painful, but she wasn’t going to mention that.

“It could be challenging and considering you’re still healing, I’m not clearing you. You’re not going.” Leonard‘s tone indicated there was no room for arguments but unluckily for him, she could always argue.

“I’m going.” She whacked his hand away and jumped off the bed.

“You’re not going.” He tried to push her back on her bed but she wouldn’t budge.

“I’m going!” She said with determination. They started staring each other down again, ignoring Jim‘s chuckles beside them.

“Aw look at you two; you’re like an old married couple!” He cooed and successfully made them stop to glare at him.

“Shut up, Jim!” They said simultaneously, making Jim double over with laughter. She grimaced. He was definitely going to tease them about that. She just hoped it wouldn’t be in public, like the last time.

“Captain, permission to go on this mission?” She turned to Jim fully, ignoring Leonard‘s attempts to get her to sit down.

“Permission granted.” He nodded as he tried to catch his breath and she turned to Leonard with a triumphant smile.

“See? Captains’ orders.”

“Jim!“ He yelled at the Captain. „Well I say she can‘t, Doctor‘s orders.“

„Which one is more important?“ She stage-whispered to Jim and he opened his mouth to reply when Leonard cut him off.

„Mine.“ Fine, he wants to be stubborn? She‘ll just have to resort to desperate measures. Sighing dramatically, she melted away the tension in her body and took a step towards him.

„Len…" His eyebrow quirked at her quiet tone, but she ignored it and plowed through. "I really want to get outside, you know how uncomfortable I can get all cooped up in here. Remember the last time I skipped a mission? I almost went insane! It’s not like it’s my dominant hand, anyway...“ She gave him her best puppy dog eyes, hoping to god he‘ll just let her go. She was glad the Med-Bay was nearly empty at this point, her reputation would be in ruins at this pathetic display. 

Darn him and his ability to make her chuck away her own pride. 

He looked like he was about to argue, but she stopped him before he could by bringing out the big guns. "Please?"

She absolutely hated using that word and he knew it. She could tell he was going over her argument in his head and debating whether it was worth it. Glaring at her for a moment longer, he pinched his nose and let his shoulders drop.

„Fine, but I’m giving you a boost so your skin heals faster, even though I’m not supposed to, and you have to promise to stay close.” He relented and jabbed a finger at her. She jumped and beamed at him and he visibly softened. 

“Don’t I always?” She gave his arm a squeeze as a thank you. He shook his head, a hint of a smile on his lips.

“Why do I even try?” He muttered. She just wiggled her eyebrows in response, already skipping away to get herself ready for the mission.

„Wait, that worked?“ Jim suddenly piped up, confused as to what just happened.

„Shut up, Jim.“

-

“-It’s a desert area, but there is a forest nearby that we can’t really get a reading on, we’ll just try to stay away from it for now, just in case.” Suited up and struggling with an armful of equipment, she listened to Jim drone on about the mission whilst the rest of the team gathered on the transportation pads. It was a simple run of sample collection but since it was mostly unknown territory, security was required to keep watch. The bright eyed new security recruit and her would have the exciting job of just standing there. But at least she's getting outside. Just the thought of the wind in her hair had her buzzing in excitement.

“Just in case?” Leonard froze and she chuckled.

“It’ll be fine, Len, like Jim said, we’ll only be a few hours.” She shot him a grin and he muttered curses under his breath and something that sounded like ‘fine, my ass’ but she couldn’t be sure as the feeling of transportation took over and her feet sunk in sand.

She closed her eyes and breathed in the sudden hot air. It was warm, almost overbearingly so, and there was a sickly sweet smell in the air. The air, god, there wasn't much wind but the subtle caress on her skin was enough to make her head tilt back and grin towards the sky. Her eyes opened to a captivating mix of pink and purple. Three yellow moons stretched across the atmosphere and she was overwhelmingly glad she got Leonard to stop arguing like a paranoid mule and let her join. She looked down to comment on it when something made her freeze.

She was alone.

Spinning around in confusion only gave her more questions than answers. The sand under her boots seemed to cover a rocky landscape which was dotted with strange cacti-like plants. They were tall, but not tall enough to be trees. Their thorns were larger than that of a cactus and made walking around them difficult. They cast dark shadows that stretched across the barren ground, only interrupted by a few pathetic looking bushes.

It was quiet. The kind of quiet that made you flinch at the sound of your own breath.

She fought the sudden surge of panic as she hastily searched for her comm, ready to ask what the hell was going on, when a voice suddenly piped up from it, making her jump.

“Landing party has successfully reached its destination.” Jim's voice sounded distorted. Was her comm broken?

“Uh, sorry to burst your bubble, Jim, but I think I’ve lost you.” She spoke into the comm as she started walking around, trying to catch sight of her team.

“What?” A pause. “Wait, where the hell are you Flynn?!”

“Ah, Captain, something ----- happened with the transport-----at caused Flynn to be transported els------.” Scotty's voice sounded even worse and he kept cutting out. She turned her comm around, assessing for damage. It seemed fine.

“What do you mean elsewhere? Where is she?” Jim was starting to sound as panicked as she felt. She had a bad feeling in her gut and she couldn’t shake it. She thought she saw movement out of the corner of her eye and swiveled only to be met with another blasted cactus. She raised the comm to her mouth again, eyes fixated on the plant.

“Jim, when you said forest, was it possibly a forest made of… uh, cacti-looking things?” She asked in a low voice and gripped the equipment in her arms tighter.

“She’s in the forest?! The ‘let’s stay clear of those, just in case’ forest?” Leonard’s voice both soothed her and panicked her even further with its words. Yep, something was definitely off. She looked around again, the back of her neck prickling with the feeling of being watched.

“Calm down, Len, I’m sure Scotty can beam me away…. Right, Scotty?” She tried to calm down enough to reassure them both. She would be fine, Scotty would sweep in any second and beam her up. She was met with silence. “Scotty?”

“Ah, eh, no, not exactly— can’t detect— there’s something in there—- disturbing the process.” He sounded apologetic, but she stopped listening halfway through. She saw movement again, this time right in front of her. Did that… no, did it?

“…any idea of what it is?” Jim asked. The movement happened again, this time enough to confirm her suspicions. Before she could react, the cactus in front of her literally started moving towards her.

“Holy shit!”

________________________________________________

sorry to end on a cliffhanger lmao >:) tell me what you think! part 2 should be up in the next couple of days! it will be longer ;)

[starryeyes2000]

Trust Love One More Time: Chapter 16

Read on AO3 or FFN

Thanks to @arrthurpendragon for this incredible graphic!

Pairing: McCoy x Fem!OC (Cara)

Rating: Teen

Word Count: 1.2k

Summary: Starfleet offered McCoy an escape and a purpose. He expected this choice precluded a second chance for love. Yet when a journalist embeds with Enterprise’s crew, he is drawn to her and must decide whether to risk his heart again.

This work dives into McCoy’s backstory – bitter divorce and other loss – and its effect on his choices: past, present and future.

Have the courage to trust love one more time and always one more time. – Maya Angelou

Excerpt:

Cara’s shoulders inched down as tension ebbed from her body, she resettled her head on Leonard’s chest, pressing its left side into him. He deepened the embrace, tightening his arms around her. A soft sigh fell from her lips. One of his arms slid up her back, its hand cradled her neck, its thumb stroked her right cheek; his other arm encircled her waist, drawing their bodies closer. He tucked the crown of her head under his chin.

For him time ceased.

“Nothing distracts, sleep won’t come, it’s the dark you see,” her voice caught on the last word then whispered, “I’m scared.”

Continue Reading on AO3 or FFN

Story Masterlist | OCMasterlist | Author Masterlist

Taglist: @lord-westley @arrthurpendragon @ocappreciation @ocappreciationtag @bardic-tales @karimac @cobe76 @imaginesfire @themaradaniels @chickensarentcheap @darsynia

[serenitydiviness]

Line Without Hook- Spock x OC

This chapter was a nightmare to finish, but it is done! The regular uploading schedule for this is usually Wed/Sat. However next chapter might either be early or late! Thank you to anyone who liked the previous chapters :)

AO3 || FF.NET

PREVIOUS

Summary: Six years ago, Yeoman Serena Zuriñe embarrassed herself by giving a drunken confession to her mentor, none other than one Commander Spock. Now she finds herself face to face with the Vulcan man she had planned on avoiding the rest of her life. What could possibly go wrong? slow burn. Fake marriage. Spock/OC

Chapter 3:

Serena felt more at ease once they entered the vessel. She looked around before finding the check-in line. 

Janice was running it, Serena noted. That gave her a sense of ease. Janice seemed nice. Nyota as well. Christine Chapel, however, made her feel incredibly uncomfortable. She shook her head before she got to the front of the line.

“Serena, right?” Janice asked. “I’m sorry. I know we spoke earlier, but I've—”

“There is no need to apologize,” Serena assured. “It is kind of you to remember my name.”

“I’m glad I got it right on the first try.” Janice laughed. “Alright, you… it looks like we have a last-minute change, so you’ll share a room with… oh, your friend.” 

Serena nodded. “She and the good doctor bonded.” 

“You’re telling me,” Janice said. “So I’m guessing the room sharing is a formality.”

“Her flirtations are rarely serious,” Serena said.

“Right. I’m sorry I didn’t mean to imply—”

“She and the doctor have shown a fairly short interest in each other. It is logical to jump to the thought.” Serena said. “I hope I did not come off as rude.”

“Not at all,” Janice assured. “Vulcans are very to the point, correct?”

“Yes.”

“Then you weren’t being rude. You were stating facts.” Janice gave an assuring smile. “Let's get some drinks once we’re settled.”

“Of course.” Serena smiled back. 

“Well. Let me go ahead and interrupt the happy couple.” Janice said with a giggle.

“I want to watch,” Serena said. 

****

To say, Annaleigh found Dr. McCoy—ahem, Leonard, as he insisted upon— to be charming was an understatement. She giggled a bit as he recounted a story about a Vulcan blood transfusion he had completed.

“I got the last word on both of them.” He said with a bit of a laugh. 

Annaleigh batted her eyes, smiling all the same. “Handsome and quick-witted. Leonard, I might just fall in love with you.” 

“Well, if you keep batting those pretty hazel eyes at me, I might make an honest woman out of you before this mission is over.” He teased. 

“Well, I’ll have to make you an honest man first. You  are an incorrigible flirt.” 

“I could take you to dinner as a start?” 

“Doctors!” Janice called, walking over with Serena. Annaleigh could see the small smirk on Serena’s face. She returned the look. 

“Oh Janice, everything ok?” Leonard asked, switching into his professional mode. Annaleigh could have swooned right then. 

“Yes, just needed to get Dr. Scott checked in and settled.” Janice nodded.

“We’ll talk more about dinner later, Leonard,” Annaleigh said as she and the two other women walked off. 

“Oh, we must.” He called before heading off.

“Dinner?” Janice grinned.

“Leonard?” Serena raised a brow.

“Well, ladies, he wants to make an honest woman out of me?” Annaleigh brought a hand to her chest dramatically. “Who am I to deny him my presence.” 

“You’re a flirt.”

“Prude.” Annaleigh teased. “At least I’m getting somewhere with my man.”

“Your man?” Both Janice and Serena looked at her incredulously. 

“He will be before the mission is up.” Annaleigh nodded confidently. Yes, she’d make Leonard McCoy make an honest woman out of her, and she’d be more than happy to make an honest man out of him.

“I like you two,” Janice said with a laugh. 

“Because we’re entertaining,” Serena asked.

“Oh, very much so.” Janice laughed. 

“Well, Janice, I think we’re going to be fabulous friends.” Annaleigh nodded. 

****

Serena was glad they were settled. She pulled out her PADD to look through her rotations. She looked intently through them, wondering if, for a moment, Spock would be in any of those rotations. 

“Trying to find out if you’re gonna be stuck with your hunk?” Annaleigh asked as she plopped onto the bed.

Serena gave an uncharacteristic groan, covering her face.

“Trying to avoid him?” Annaleigh asked.

“Anna, how does love work when you’re both barely human, and you’re pretty sure the other person is only nice to you out of politeness,” Serena asked as she fell back on the mattress. She could feel conflicting emotions slowly taking over any Vulcan propriety. 

“A miracle, mostly,” Annaleigh responded honestly. “Though it looked like he was ready to get you alone as soon as he could.” 

“I suppose. I wound up apologizing for that night.”

“I still can’t believe you did that. Even less that it didn’t warrant a diplomatic issue.”

“Clan V’los and Clan S'chn T'gai are political allies. But he was married at the time.”

“Damn, you slut.” 

“They’re divorced now.”

“Get drunk and go confess again.”

“Anna, why are you like this?”

“I’m an illogical sentient mass run completely by electricity and unfathomably reckless.”

Serena laughed. “You are. If you do end up involved with the doctor, I may just start believing in miracles.” 

“I’ll take that as a compliment. Anyways, we promised Janice we would meet her and Nyota for drinks.” Annaleigh said as she stood. “Can I borrow a dress?”

“Of course.” Serena nodded as she forced herself to sit up.

“You should wear that cute prairie dress Doris got you for your 24th birthday. The brown one. It’ll look so cute with your necklace.” 

“That sounds acceptable.” Serena nodded, touching her necklace blankly. 

“You know,” Annaleigh said as she rummaged through Serena’s closet. “You could just get drunk again and make him wish he had answered you immediately.”

“Anna,” Serena said with a shake of her head. “I’ll be okay. It’ll take a few days, but I will be okay.” 

“You’re a terrible liar for a Vulcan.”

“I’m being sensible.” Serena huffed before going to grab her clothes to change. 

“You wanna jump his bones and commit a carnal marriage!” Anna sang.

“I could say the same about you and the doctor!”

“I’ve made it no secret that if Leonard McCoy asks me to share a bed, we’ll be sharing a bed for life.” 

“Whore!”

“Prude!”

***

Leonard walked into Jim’s office, all too pleased with himself. 

“You seem to be in a good mood, Bones,” Jim said.

“I’ve got a beautiful woman working med bay with me. And I might take her out to dinner.” Leonard replied as he took a seat. He gave a teasing glance to Spock. “Say, Spock, how are you planning on wooing your girl.” 

“I do not have a girl to plan to woo,” Spock said with a frown.

“Really?” Leonard looked like a small child at Christmas. “I heard, from Annaleigh, that you were quite sweet on our new toxicologist.”

“She is my friend, and I treated her accordingly,” Spock replied.

“Well, if that is the case, why don’t Jim and I have friendship necklaces?” Leonard asked, watching Spock. He could see the small moment of emotion that passed through Spock’s eyes.

“What’s this about friendship necklaces?” Jim asked with a laugh.

“Oh, can I tell him?” Leonard asked teasingly.

“I had a piece of jewelry I had no use for and gave it to Ensign Zurine. It is not being sweet as you so callously put it.” Spock replied. 

Jim laughed, seeming a bit out of it.  Leonard glanced at Spock, who returned a concerned look. 

“You alright, Jim?” Leonard asked. 

“Just in thought, Bones,” Jim replied. 

“You sure?”

“Yes, I’ll be going to the bridge soon. Go, catch up with your lady friends,” Jim shooed them off.

****

Spock and Leonard shared a glance before Leonard got up and left. Spock watched the captain before speaking.

“Does this deep thought have to do with the incident on Psi 2000?” Spock asked bluntly.

“I was worried you’d ask that,” Jim said with a laugh. “I suppose a bit of jealousy hit watching Bones flirt with our new doctor.”

“You have had numerous flirtations, Captain; I fail to comprehend the reason for your envy.” 

“A flirtation is rarely serious.”

“Because it does not guarantee a shore to walk on?” 

Spock watched as Jim flinched a bit. “Yes, Mr. Spock. You don’t have to call me out.”

Spock looked at the wall. “I will point out anything that will negatively affect the ship.”

Jim laughed a bit. “It could be that, or perhaps you have found yourself in a similar predicament?”

“I do not believe so.” 

“Really? I may not be so keen on the Vulcan ways, but you don’t tend to stare as much as you have been this day.”

Spock raised a brow. “I do not follow, Captain.”

“Let’s just say I know something you don’t want me to know.”

“Like?”  

“Oh, Spock,” Jim grinned. “You’ll have to wait and see.” 

Spock frowned and shook his head. “I’ll see you on the brig.”

“Aren’t you going to the rec room?”

“Why would I go to the recreation room?”

“Oh, Janice mentioned she, Serena, and Annaleigh would be having drinks.”

Spock raised his brow at the casual use of the women’s names. He tilted his head and looked at Jim curiously.

“Something wrong, Mr. Spock?” Jim gave an all too innocent smile.

“Nothing, Captain. I shall see you on the brig.” 

*****

Serena watched as Annaleigh entered the rec room. It was hard to ignore such a loud person, she thought. She smiled at Janice, who was waving them over.

“Hello, Janice.” Serena greeted with the Vulcan salute.

“Serena!” Janice smiled. “Annaleigh, get over here.” 

Annaleigh strutted over and sat down. “Hello, my dear!” She said with a laugh.

Serena shook her head and took her seat.

“Are the quarters okay?” Janice asked.

“They are acceptable and received with great gratitude.” Serena nodded. 

“Oh, absolutely fabulous,” Annaleigh nodded. “So, what’s the 411 on the fun around here.” 

“We’ll if we’re not on the verge of death, we have music nights, card nights. Lots of different things to boost morale between us all.” Janice said.

“Music nights must be nice,” Serena said, unable to help a soft smile.

“Are you fond of music?” Janice asked.

“Fond of music? If this girl weren’t so position-obsessed, she’d be the first Vulcan Pop star on earth.” Annaleigh teased.

“Music is a form of art that serves as a good basis of logic. It must be precise, full of intent, and pleasing.” Serena said. “It is the manipulation of sound in its most perfect form.”

“You sound very impassioned about music.” Janice smiled.

“My father was passionate about music. It was his passion after the stars.” Serena nodded.

“Doesn’t your name mean a song or something in Vulcan?” Annaleigh asked.

“She who sings for Glory… if you pronounce it correctly,” Serena confirmed.

“So your name isn’t Serena?” Janice asked. Serena could easily see her confusion. 

“Serena is how you would pronounce it in English and how it is translated into English documents. However, the correct pronunciation is a bit more difficult.” Serena explained. “My name comes from the expression She Who Sings For Glory.” 

“I see… Do we pronounce Mr. Spock’s name correctly?” Janice asked.

“Yes.” Serena lied, knowing full well Spock would have her head if she ever explained how to pronounce his name. She would never understand that man’s utter need to remain as vague as possible. She knew Vulcans were private. She was quite private in her dealings. But Spock, in her mind, lived for the dramatics of it all. She had heard the same of his father from her father and grandmother. 

Annaleigh gave her a strange look before shrugging. “Let’s drink?”

“We only have synthetic alcohol. Is that okay?” Janice asked.

“Probably for the best. We do not want a drunk Vulcan. They’re impossible.” Annaleigh teased.

“Drunken humans are worse,” Serena said with a roll of her eyes.

“Only if we’re trying to forget something.” 

Janice giggled as she stood to go grab them drinks. Serena sighed a bit, slouching forward. She felt exhausted the longer she stayed there. Still, she had promised, and she knew Annaleigh would probably be upset if she left. 

“Just two drinks, and we go to bed?” Annaleigh asked.

“I will have one, and then you can enjoy your night. Besides, I’m sure you’d like to enjoy Dr. McCoy’s presence.” Serena teased.

“You’re right.” Annaleigh nodded sagely.

“Here you ladies are!” Janice said as she brought them drinks.

“Thank you.” Serena nodded. 

“You’re an Angel, Janice,” Annaleigh said.

“Oh, I try.” Janice laughed.  

Serena smiled as the idle chat began. She listened as Janice and Annaleigh shared stories of their experiences in the academy. She was happy to be partially aware of the conversation, too tired even for her thoughts. 

“Serena,” Annaleigh’s voice snapped her out of her trance. “What was the name of that one group you liked?”

“ABBA?” Serena replied.

“Yes.” Annaleigh nodded. 

“Why?” 

“We were talking about music, remember?”

“My apologies; I was lost in thought.” 

“Do you want to call it a night?” Janice asked.

“I will retire. Please enjoy your evening.” Serena said. “We should do this again soon. Thank you for the drinks, Janice.”

“Of course! See you tomorrow!” Janice nodded.

“I’ll see you in a bit.” Annaleigh waved. 

Serena nodded before heading off. She let out a tired sigh as soon as she was alone. She knew it would likely be a bit before Annaleigh would return to the room, so it would be fine if she went to a different rec room. 

If her memory of the map she had was correct, there was a rec room nearby that she could also go to. She thought for a moment longer and decided it would be better to go t her room. She was exhausted. Any more excitement could wait. 

[greeneyedpixie99]

Stars *Leonard "Bones" McCoy*

Summary: After living in her brother's shadow since the day they were born, Eleanor "Nell" Kirk decides to take her life into her own hands. Joining Starfleet, she finds not only a place to belong but potentially, someone she wouldn't mind spending her life with.

Pairing: Eleanor "Nell" Kirk x Leonard "Bones" McCoy

Warning: Mention of injuries, mention of blood, Character Death

CHAPTER FIVE

Have you ever woken up from a fever dream and not really understood the entirety of what happened? Like you could remember faintly being sick and the fever but everything else is a blur. Coming too in a medbay cot, surrounded by Vulcan’s and feeling like you’d been run over is not a fun way to wake up. All I remembered was the feel of Len’s hands on my check and then the feeling of free falling. Everything else was locked away by a curtain of black. The only comfort I really had was the news that I had been one of the lucky ones. Len had been promoted to Chief Medical Officer because Puree and several other staff members were dead. Another foot to the left and I would have been just like Puree.

I was glad I didn’t remember it.

        "Nell, are you sure you don't want me to get Dr. McCoy?" I had been adamant since I woke up that no one bother Len. I didn’t want to see the pain, I didn’t want to see the worry and I certainly didn’t want to see the relief.Because right now I was operating off of the blood transfusion, the sealed wounds and the haunting image of our almost kiss.I didn’t want to confront those feelings right now. Especially not since Nurse Harper had all but confirmed that Len hadn’t left her side until she was on the mend, and even then he left only to help Jim and Spock who had gone to rescue the Vulcan’s as quickly as they could before the planet had been consumed. 

What’s worse, Nurse Harper hadn’t left my side. Always fretting over her, always making sure that she was okay and that her broken ankle or fractured wrist weren’t acting up. Especially since she had seen Nurse Harper rest a hand on Len’s shoulder almost in comfort. I didn’t like it, it was petty, and I knew it was because I was clinging onto hope that he felt for me what I felt for him. I would know of course If i would grow a pair, let Nurse Harper call Len over so we could talk about what had almost happened before we’d warped to the rescue. A part of me worried he would call it a mistake, so I didn’t call him over. I wouldn’t.

I also knew the only way I was going to be cleared was to give one of the battered Vulcan’s a clear bed, was if I was checked over. Apparently losing your planet and nearly being crushed was second priority to my own wounds which were mostly nonexistent now. The fatigue was still present as well as the muscle weakness, add on the broken ankle and fractured wrist and even if I wanted to get up to clear a bed and help, I wouldn’t be able to. I would be sent to the bridge to take over one of the Linguists stations. I wasn’t ready for that.

     "I'm really fine Nurse Harper. Go away please." Harper gave me a sad look before moving away from my bedside. Settling myself against the bed a little more comfortably I picked up my patient Padd from the table by the bed where Harper had left it. Quickly unlocking it I thoroughly read through the medical report. Three broken bones, one broken leg, a fractured wrist, several muscle tears and a deep long laceration down my back from landing on the broken rubble from Deck 6. Not that bad compared to what it could have been, but definitely bad if I hadn’t been found when I was. I was more than grateful for the stitches and skin regrowth that had been treated on the cut.

     "How you feelin' Doll?" Dropping the padd onto my bruised stomach and I flinched a little. Leonard quickly picked it up, moving it far out of my reach before settling at the end of the bed.

     "McCoy, I'm fine. I promise. Don't you have other patients?"

     "None that are as badly beat up as you are. Nell, I was terrified that I’d found you too late. That you were just like Puree, that I would have to tell Jim I’d failed and you were gone." Despite how touching his worry was, and how much I liked how much the thought of my death burned him (selfishly clinging onto the idea it burned because he cared for me more than a friend) I forced myself to roll my eyes.

     "If I had, I'm sure you would have been fine after a while. Besides, you've got Nurse Harper and Jim’s got you and mom and our brother Goerge." Leo grabbed my hand tenderly, giving it a gentle squeeze.

     "Lonnie's nice enough but she doesn't have the spirit and sass my favorite girl does." I quirked an eyebrow.

     "You would still have Jim, who is literally just like me when he cuts the ego off. I don't see how my passing would make a difference."

     "I was talking about you Nell, you aren’t a thing like your brother, you never have been. You were the one who helped the most after my divorce and I've come to really depend on you." Blushing, I looked away trying to keep from showing how much his words meant to me.

     "Get some sleep okay. When you wake up you should be healed enough to get up and walk around. I think you’re needed on the bridge anyway." With a kiss to my hairline Leonard brushed his thumb across my cheek before pushed off of her bed and walked over to Nurse Harper before leaving med bay entirely. Avoiding probing looks from the Vulcan’s gathered around in the medical space, I rolled over and attempted to get some actual rest and not the dark and dangerous unconsciousness I was plagued with only a few hours ago.

When you’re told to take a nap to feel better, you don’t expect the moment you wake up to receive news that makes you want to go on a homicidal killing spree. Which is probably why Len had dragged me into an isolated room to inform me that my brother had attempted to ‘Mutant’ and had been Vulcan nerve pinched and chucked off board. To say I was pissed was putting it mildly. 

    "What the hell do you mean my brother is no longer aboard McCoy!" My eyes were burning dangerously, my weight being held on my good foot didn’t deter me any as I advanced on the handsome doctor before me. Her blue eyes squinted in anger. Leonard raised his hands and surprised, clearly trying to keep me from doing anything that might potentially get me kicked off because he was now required to report any behavior not fitting a Starship.

     "I mean Spock went all crazy Vulcan and sent him off the ship. Jim didn't agree with him on something and wouldn’t back down. I am supposed to go talk to him now and I was hoping you’d be calm enough to come with me so that I don't get out of hand. Now i’m not so sure that’s a good idea."

     "Disagree or not, Vulcan’s run on logic Len. Logically kicking a cadet off of a starship outside of where we’re supposed to be isn’t logic. So it’s not me you need to worry about. Besides, aren’t I supposed to be headed up to the bridge anyway?" Leonard rolled his eyes but wrapped an arm around my waist supporting me as we walked out of the med bay and to the lift. Just like when we had arrived from the shuttles, it didn’t take long to reach the bridge.

Spock was wandering around looking almost lost, separated from the usual frey of the bridge activity. Len led us both over, gently releasing me to support myself so as to be taken seriously by the Vulcan acting-captain in front of us.

     "You wanted to see me?"

     "Yes, Doctor. I'm aware that James Kirk is a friend of yours. Supporting me, as you did, must have been difficult."

     "Are you thanking me?"

     "I'm simply acknowledging your difficulties."

     "Permission to speak freely, sir."

     "I welcome it."

     "Do you. Okay then: Are you out of your Vulcan Mind? Were you doing the logical thing? Maybe and Nell don't give me that look. the Right one? Debatable. But one thing's for damn sure- that kid doesn't know how to lose. Just isn't in his DNA. Back home we have a saying: "If you're gonna ride in the Kentucky Derby, don't leave your prize stallion in the stable."

     "He's got a point, Spock. My brother has an incredibly high IQ and he thinks differently than you. He is an advantage not a disadvantage." For the first time Spock focused his dark gaze on me. Something untouchable was in his gaze, something I couldn’t make out or read.

     "A curious metaphor, Doctor. As a stallion must first be broken before it can reach its potential as for what your were saying Nurse Kirk, your IQ and thought process are nearly identical to your brothers therefore even if it was needed I have you on board therefore your brother would remain unneeded." I raised an eyebrow and smirked a little. That was where he was wrong. Jim and I might have the same sense of humor, share the same level of sarcasm, and look the same but that is where our similarities differ greatly.

     "Jim has the mind of a Captain, I have the mind of a Doctor. He knows the protocol and the thought process necessary to get out of touch situations. He doesn’t use it all the time but it’s there. I have the mind of a healer, a diplomat, a helper. We are different. There is a difference Captain." I didn’t stay to hear his response, it wouldn’t matter. Jim was gone, stranded on a planet alone and likely with nothing more than a communicator. If I wanted to prevent myself from landing in trouble just like him I had to watch my tone. So without the help of my best friend, I limped back through the bridge.

The pain from my wounds was beginning to peak their head up, which meant it was time to get off my feet. Still, something about Spock, Jim and Len was bothering me. Something I should have seen but wasn’t. Whatever it was, I hoped it wasn’t important.

[starryeyes2000]

Dear @arrthurpendragon - this this amazing! Thank you! Big smile here in my neck of the woods.

@starryeyes2000 - thanks for sending the ask about Cori’iana. I really appreciate it!

Cara in Trust Love One More Time

[happycat4848]

More OC x Canon Art Cause I can't help myself.

Is this cringe? Do I even care? No not really.

Yeah I'm still learning how to draw McCoy... And side profiles, so thank you all for baring with me lol. Anyway yeah Sokha ( My OC ) hates anyone messing her beehive hairstyle up, do you know how long she works on it....

Yeah, these two definitely remind me of an old Hollywood couple, I won't lie. If you have any questions about them let me know. Also I always accept art criticism, especially on how to draw McCoy. How do I draw this man, someone please tell me 😭

[lunarchrry]

Now you listen here--

Bones is probably upset because he got caught doing...somethin'. And Yumi is like I fucking caught you.

It's a 'don't go be a dick to Spock' challenge and he loses every time.

This is a beautiful commission that @forecast0ctopus did for me and all I gotta say is GIVE THEM ALL YOUR MONEY PLEASE or like follow them for beautiful art please. I am so in love with this -- I colored it in because my ipad and phone didn't like the black and white.

[a-halo-for-you]

Misreading

Leonard 'Bones' McCoy x Female OC

Fandom: Star Trek

Prompt: "You look like hell."

Summary: Dr Hermia Walker wallows in her grief before her best friend (and secret love of her life) Bones appears, changing the course of the evening abruptly.

Part 1 to a series I'm working on.

Word Count: 1788

Hermia leant in over her drink, the soft glow of the bar glinting on the rims of glasses, the room filled with the sound of softly playing music. The place was mostly empty, not unusual for when the ship was docked in at a starbase where the clubs and pubs were many and gave the crew downtime before setting off for the next part of their journey into the unknown. She took another sip of the rum in her glass, savouring the depth and sweetness with eyes closed, burning in her throat as she swallowed. 

The sound of the doors swiping open turned her head, eyebrows raised with curiosity and settling when her eyes caught the ones belonging to Bones. 

He was in his own clothes, a leather jacket and jeans fitted perfectly though Hermia would never say that outloud. She did her best to not allow her eyes to run over his body, turning back to face the bar while he sauntered over. 

“You look like hell,” He remarked, the hint of worry curbing the bluntness of his tone as he took a seat beside her, laying out his own glass and pouring himself a drink from the bottle she’d acquired several drinks ago. 

“Gee, you sure know what to say to make a girl feel special Dr McCoy,” Hermia lifted her glass, smiling surreptitiously before taking a drink, eyes still pinned to the glowing lights that haloed the bar. She wasn’t sure she should look at him, not with the way her heart stutters around him when she’s sober, not with the way her current sorrow may lead her to make one foolish mistake. 

“How much have you had?” Bones asked, clinking his glass with hers before taking a sip, she watched him relish in the taste from the corner of her eye, a smile of satisfaction overcoming him. “Well that is some good stuff.” 

“I like to think I know my rum,” She shrugged, “But you know that.”

Bones huffed a small laugh, “Yeah I do. We’ve known eachother 8 years, you’d think I’d know you by now.” 

The knowingness in his tone made her pause and she swallowed the lump that threatened to build in her throat. Placing the glass down she caught sight of the gold signet ring that rested just a little too big for her own index finger and rubbed a thumb over it. 

“It’s just a bit of a shit day that’s all,” She sighed. 

“You know your dad wouldn’t want you to be alone on a day like today right?” Bones nudged her arm with his, leaning in slightly to get her to look at him. 

“Even if I want to be alone?” She asked him, raising an eyebrow with as much muted grey sass as she could. 

“Especially then. From what you told me, your dad would want you to be surrounded by people who care about you if you can’t be with the rest of your family.” He replied swiftly, and she tried her best to acknowledge the words that fell from his lips. Tried her best not to think about kissing him and glanced away, reaching for her drink again.

“Herm,” Bones placed his hand on the one that reached for her poison- or antidote, she was too many drinks in to notice the difference. “What’s going on today? This isn’t just about your old dad is it?” 

She smiled briefly without joy, “He wasn’t even old. I’m just- I don’t know, it feels like time doesn’t pass when we’re up here but it does. Sometimes I wonder if I’m even doing what I’m supposed to be doing… With my life. Career. Stuff.” 

“That’s normal,” He reassured her, the gentleness in his eyes drawing her in close once again. “Everyone wonders about the what ifs in their life, hell I think about what it would have been like if I’d stayed on Earth sometimes- most times. But I know that this was where I was supposed to go in the end, cause thinking about my life any other way, I don’t think I could choose any different. And I know you feel the same deep down.” 

Hermia couldn’t help the softness in her eyes as she gazed at him, feeling the warmth from his proximity, the smell of his cologne, the spice of the rum between them. 

“How is it you always manage to make me feel normal when the world around me feels insane?” 

The words hung in the air for a few beats longer than she’d expected and watched as his expression flickered with uncertainty. Suddenly short for air she recoiled sharply and teetered off the side of her bar stool, slipping off with a thud and gasp before shooting to her feet, ignoring the bruising that ached in her hip. 

“Goddammit Herm, are you trying to concuss yourself?” Bones was already to his feet, hands checking her quickly while she swatted them away. They felt too good, too fitting on her body - it was awful in the best way. 

“I’m fine, I’m fine. No pain at all,” She grabbed his hands in hers and pushed them back away from her space before stepping around him, the room swaying slightly as she did. “Oh wow, I’m drunk.” 

Bones sighed, an expression of exasperation usually tied to Jim’s antics now etched on his face. “You don’t say. C’mon then, let’s get you back to your room so you can hit the hay.” 

Within seconds his hands were on her again, one arm wound around her waist and the other pulling her arm over his shoulder. Her face burned, from alcohol, from embarrassment, from the heat that sparked from his touch - she didn’t know. 

The journey to her room was slow and the bruise on her side had begun to throb as they stumbled through the quiet corridors - or rather she stumbled and he held her up along the way. 

“Wait- Wait, let me just-” Hermia reached for the wall of the corridor they were in, leaning her head against it for a moment, his hands warm against the small of her back as he rubbed it soothingly, sending sparks up her spine and a heat flared to life inside her gut.

“C’mon Herm, your room is just around the corner,” Bones soothed, his voice soft, a secret tone he used sometimes that made her dig her nails into the wall slightly before turning to face him, blinking away the blurred lights. 

“Can we just pause for a second? I definitely drank too much,” Hermia sighed, managing a tired smile that he gave into with an aggravated sigh, rolling his eyes slightly. 

“Sure, let's just camp out in the middle of the hallway where any young ensign can see me pressing you up against the wall - that sure sounds responsible,” He ranted, sarcasm dripping from every word that made Hermia chuckle lightly. 

“Well when you put it that way, I’d hate to get you into trouble, Bones,” She rested her hands on his shoulders, righting herself up from leaning against the wall and stepping further into his space. 

The hands that were bracing her body tightened slightly and the way his eyes flickered between hers made her mouth go dry. 

“Then again, it’s not like I’m your subordinate or anything,” She whispered, watching the way he watched her, slightly frozen in place. 

“No, you’re not,” He swallowed, sounding- well Hermia didn’t fully hear how he sounded. The affirmation sounded too much like a confirmation to the silent question that had been burning in her head for the past few minutes and it pushed her forward. Liquid courage blazing in her veins as her lips met his. 

Bones’ lips met hers, reacting with a passion that took her breath away and the hands that held her gripped tighter, backing her against the wall in one swift motion. The heat of his body pressed against Hermia’s made her head spin and the flick of his tongue against hers made her moan softly. The fire in her raged on and she’d let it burn her for all she cared, she just didn’t want this to end. One hand raked through the scruff of his hair while the other pulled him closer, fingers curling into his jacket. One of his hands ran from her waist to her thighs, hitching one leg up to his hip and with a shudder she grinded against him, their moans stifled by their kiss. The break in the kiss came too soon as they separated for the sake of oxygen, and their eyes met in a burn of blue and hazel. Gradually the mist in Bones’ eyes cleared and the heat that was coiled in Hermia like a wire spring turned cold. Slowly he let go of her leg and took Hermia’s hands in his, unhooking himself from her as he took a large step back. 

The heat in his gaze was unmistakable but so was the regret, the shame and Hermia opened her mouth to apologise.

“I’m supposed to be meeting someone tonight.” He beat her to it, breathing heavily as he watched her come to the paling realisation. His date. That’s the other reason why she was sad - he had a date. 

Dr Fiona Verne, a well-liked woman of closer age to Bones, a Georgian lady herself with plenty the two of them could talk about between themselves. She was elegant and lovely, Hermia liked her even, so the sharp sting of rejection was quickly drowned out by hot and acrid shame.

“Oh my god,” Her face collapsed into her hands, her last defence to shield herself from Bones. “I’m- I’m drunk.” 

She lifted her head to look at him, armour on, steeling herself from her emotions for as long as she could, whilst backing away further down the corridor. “I’m drunk and I’m sad and that makes for awful decision making. I’m so sorry. I-I- I’m gonna go- I’m gonna go to bed- Um, say hi to Fiona for me- Ah! Actually no, don't do that because that's- that’s weird.”  

She was turning the corner of the corridor before she realised, her legs happy to get her away from the situation as she almost ran to her room. Cursing herself to the seven layers of hell.

The doors closed shut behind her and after a few minutes of anxiously guarding her door to ensure Bones wasn’t coming after her, she burrowed her disappointment under a cemented layer of lies that quickly cracked when she reached up to trace her lips. After 8 years, she’d finally kissed him and it felt exactly how she had dreamt and also nothing like it at all.

[thesconesyard]

In keeping with a silly tradition I started for my birthday, what?, three years ago?, here’s an update of a story, and a new chapter will go on ao3 in a little bit.

Wherever You Are, I Am

Part 45

October passed and slid quietly into November. The weather cooled and rainstorms passed over more frequently. McCoy saw less of Jaylah on weekends as class assignments became longer and more frequent, and the semester end began to loom. She had also begun to make more friends on campus after he had introduced her to Astrid.

“Who all is coming?” he asked.

“All the usuals,” his mom answered.

“Ma, I haven’t been home for Thanksgiving in I don’t know how many years. I don’t know who the usuals are anymore.”

Mrs. McCoy laughed. “You do get to the point Leonard. Your sister and the boys. Your uncle and his new girlfriend. Nana Mabel and a few cousins.”

“Well it’ll be nice to see them.”

“We’re all looking forward to seeing you too. It’s been too long.”

“I know Ma. We’ll be on the first shuttle out after Jaylah’s last class Wednesday, and should be there mid-evening.”

“I’ll keep something warmed up for you to eat when you get here.” Mrs. McCoy smiled at her son.

“Sounds like a good plan. Speaking of, I should go get some dinner. I’ll see you next week Ma.”

“Yes, go eat. Can’t wait to see you. Love you Leo.”

“Love you too Ma.”

McCoy clicked off the call and set the PADD aside. Slowly he rose from the couch and went to the kitchen.

“Any plans for the long weekend Astrid?” McCoy asked as he packed his few things into his work bag.

“Some studying, not much else. Just hanging around campus. You sir?”

“We’re heading out to Georgia soon as Jaylah’s done for the day. Haven’t been home in who knows how many years.”

“Is your husband going to join you?” Astrid asked as they began to walk to the classroom door.

“No, but we’re heading to Yorktown for Christmas.”

“That’s good,” Astrid smiled. “Have a good holiday Dr. McCoy.”

“You too Astrid. Don’t study too much.” He stood for a moment as Astrid walked the other way, then began the walk to his quarters.

McCoy pulled the hood on his coat up as it began to rain again. He picked up his pace and was soon in his quarters. He glanced at the clock as he walked in the bedroom. There was still at least another hour before Jaylah would show up. He grabbed a bag and began to pack for the weekend.

“How long is the shuttle?” Jaylah asked as they boarded.

“Couple hours,” McCoy replied as they picked seats. “I can bore you with stories about who’ll be there if you want.” He laughed.

“I would like to know,” Jaylah said with a smile.

McCoy smiled as they pulled up to his childhood home. It looked the same as it always had. He had begun to tell Jaylah about his family on the shuttle, but she had leaned onto his shoulder and fallen asleep not too far into the trip. The drive to the house she had been wide eyed, looking out the windows.

“Come on darlin’,” McCoy said, getting out of the car.

He was quicker and shouldered both of their bags.

“This is your home?” Jaylah asked in awe.

“Yep, the ol’ McCoy homestead,” he smiled. “I’ll show you around tomorrow when it’s light. Show you the peach tree I planted when I was a boy.”

“I can not wait Dr. Bones.”

They had reached the front door and McCoy put a hand out to knock. In moments the door opened and Eleanor McCoy was in front of them.

“Oh Leonard! It’s so good to see you,” the older woman cried out.

McCoy set the bags down from his shoulder and stepped forward into his mother’s embrace. Mrs. McCoy squeezed him close before finally setting her hands on his shoulders and looking at him thoroughly. She brushed a hair from his forehead.

“You look well,” she smiled.

McCoy stooped to pick the bags up again as his mother turned to Jaylah.

“Welcome my dear,” Mrs. McCoy greeted her.

“Hello.” Jaylah’s greeting turned surprised as Mrs. McCoy pulled her in for a hug too.

“I’m so glad you could come.” Mrs. McCoy moved back. “Come in, come in, don’t spend the night on the porch. I’ll show you up to the room and then feed you, alright?”

“That’s fine Ma,” McCoy chuckled. He raised a questioning eyebrow at Jaylah. She was looking overwhelmed. “Who’s here already?” he asked as they followed Mrs. McCoy up the stairs.

“Leah and Steven and the kids. And Nana. I do hope you two don’t mind sharing a room. Uncle Eugene is staying over tomorrow and that’s that.”

“It’s no problem Ma,” McCoy said.

“I set a cot up in your old room. And of course you’ll have your own bathroom.”

“Ok.”

“You two get settled and come down when you’re ready. I’ll get dinner heated back up for you.” Mrs. McCoy left them at the bedroom.

McCoy dumped his bag on the cot and Jaylah’s on the bed.

“You alright darlin’?” he asked when they were alone. “I know Ma comes on a bit strong.”

Jaylah nodded, then smiled. “I like her.”

“Good.”

“Dr. Bones why did you put my bag here? It is your room.”

“I can rough it a couple nights. I remember those dorm beds; enjoy something nice for a few nights.”

“But—”

“Nope. No buts. I’ve slept on worse, trust me.”

“Ok,” Jaylah said slowly.

[1shirt2shirtredshirtdeadshirt]

“And Bones was equally a wildcard -- the sassiest one of them all. The whole trio was chaotic.

The Trek Trinity of Troublemaking, if you will.

Bones just out here casually drinking on the job, yelling at his own boss, never being where he should be. Always bitching and moaning pure piss and vinegar. Cantankerous Diva and armchair critic extraordinaire. Never lets Jim or Spock live an inch despite being as much if not more dysfunctional himself. Refusing to use transporters.

Had a Bee Gees beard and medallion era when he went off the grid.

He that "The Government Puttin' Flouride in the Tap Water" type paranoid bitch. Tin hat wearin' cringe ahh ahh Barry Gibb lookin' country bumpkin maf.

Mutinying with Spock one second, then slap-fighting with him the next.

Meanwhile Kirk is like an exhausted single parent on a long road trip with two kids acting out as he begs for decency.  

Dr. Leonard "why are you on the bridge or in a restricted area again?" McCoy.

Jim explaining to whoever asks why Bones is anywhere but Sickbay: "Oh that's just my buddy Bones. He's a doctor."😊

*Pans over to Bones, the angry scraggly housecat that will claw anyone's eyes out, especially Jim*

Them: Great, uh . . . why is he in the torpedo bay though?

Of course McCoy was the last man standing. Even if his particles were scattered across space, he'd still be complaining out there.🤣<3"

Someone posted this in a Trek group:

Counter theory:

"My theory was always that Spock was the unhinged and wild one -- a rebel by Vulcan standards -- and he radicalized "stack of book with legs" Jim Kirk.😂

Spock was the one out there mind melding with every Horta, Nomad and V'Ger while Jim and Bones absolutely panicked in the background.

Then Jim usually ended up being the one to get Spock out of it, too. The Apple, Operation Annihilate, A Private Little War, The Infinite Vulcan, TMP . . . How many times did we see Kirk have to carry Spock body and limb and slightly on fire back to the ship after he got into it?

The amount of shit Jim has to do for Spock in Star Trek III alone.

Spock is like the Enterprise housecat who stubbornly insists on being an outdoor cat and keeps escaping, later having to be carried back indoors. He keeps causing mischief but everybody loves his ass anyway.

Kirk and Spock were chaotic messes who loved their frontier first contact work in TOS and onward -- they deserved each other.😂👌

Shit, cat got out again.

[whitebloodywings]

RP Infos!

Heyy! You can call me Pearl, I'm 22 years old genderfluid and I consider myself an adv-lit/novella writer. 

This blog was created to publish rp ads and share information about me and my characters. My overall goal is to find roleplay partners who are as enthusiastic as I am!

Below I made a list of the fandoms that I'm interested in writing and the couples from each of them. Regarding the OCs, you can click on each one of them and read a detailed sheet about them.

Fandoms: (in bold are the characters I will be playing)

Good Omens:

Aziraphale x Crowley

• X-man:

• Charles Xavier x Erik Lehnsherr

Shameless US:

Ian Gallagher x Mickey Milkovich

Lip Gallagher x Female OC

Star Trek:

Spock x James T. Kirk

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

Christine Chapel x Leonard “Bones” McCoy

Harry Potter/Marauders:

Remus Lupin x Sirius Black

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

Star Wars:

Leia Organa x Han Solo

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

Marvel Cinematic Universe:

Natasha Romanoff x Steve Rogers/Matt Murdock/Tony Stark/Bucky Barnes/Clint Barton (platonic or romantic) 

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

The Mortal Instruments/Shadowhunters:

Alec Lightwood x Magnus Bane

Female OC x Jace Herondale/Sebastian Verlac

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

Merlin BBC:

Morgana Pendragon x Any CC or OC

DC:

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

Red, White and Royal Blue:

Prince Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor x Alex Claremont-Diaz

Red Queen:

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

Percy Jackson:

Female OC x Male/Female/NB OC

Plus, I'm totally open and interested in fandomless plots! I leave my OCs for these plots below so you can learn more about them.

Fandomless Plots:

Medieval/Fantasy setting:

Female OC (Pérola)

Female OC (Jessica)

Modern setting:

Female OC (Mayra)

Female OC (Jessica)

Female OC (Mary)

Female OC (Paloma)

I only rp on discord!

I only rp with +18 people.

I look for partners who actively contribute to the plot and thread and who are excited about our characters and the plot.

Be communicative! If something doesn't look good or you just don't want to continue with our rp, just tell me! Please don't block me without any explanation and disappear!

I'm fine with NSFW or SFW. I'm open to pretty much any kink and have very few limits and triggers, so if there's something you want to try just let me know.

I love talking ooc.

If you are interested in writing with me, please get in touch or like this post and I will contact you! I am available in dms. Thank you for reading this far and I hope we can have lots of fun together!

[merlyn-bane]

Fic / Art Masterlist

Figured it was finally time to give in and make one of these. Links will all be under the cut with pared down summaries to prevent this thing from being a monster on people's dash. Probably just going to leave them in the order they were posted just to make it easier to update as I go.

Standalone Fics:

Traveling Song - Star Wars, Din Djarin/OC, M Din Djarin gets to know his sometimes-ally a little better, and ends up a lot over his head. Jedi Lineage Shenanigan Collection - Star Wars, T A collection of mostly unrelated and out of order one or two-shots revolving around Jedi, their families, and the nonsense they all get up to. Tren's Xenoanatomy - Star Trek, Jim Kirk/Leonard McCoy, T Jim likes to watch trashy television to cope when he's had a bad day. Bones has some opinions on the medical accuracies of one of his favorite shows. They maybe hook up about it. Foelu - Star Wars, Obi-Wan/Cody/Waxer/Boil/Rex/Helix, E As the only one of his kind in the Order and perhaps only the third in its history, almost all of what they know about Obi-Wan's people is limited what they've been able to observe as he's grown up. When his implant expires and wartime shortages make it impossible to get their hands on a replacement, Obi-Wan learns about something else his body can do--for better or worse. - Snippets & Extras On The Caretaking And Debauching Of Your Senior Field Medic - Star Wars, Obi-Wan/Helix, E When his CMO is benched with an injury and his SFM becomes even more overworked and irate than usual, Obi-Wan Kenobi takes things into his own hands. Killing Time - Star Wars, Bo-Katan/Fennec, E Fennec Shand finds herself trapped in a vault with Bo-Katan Kryze for several hours after they both break in with the intent of stealing the same artifact. Fennec suggests a way to pass the time. Electricity Blew - Star Wars, Obi-Wan/Cody/Waxer/Boil/Helix, E The core of the 212th's officership falls into bed with their Jedi general, and learn some very interesting things about Force users in the process. home (is where you build it) - Star Wars, Obi-Wan/Cody, Obi-Wan & Quinlan, E Obi-Wan Kenobi is a state away and halfway through his master's degree when his sort-of father dies unexpectedly, leaving Obi-Wan's two adopted siblings with no other family to take care of them and Obi-Wan short on options that don't involve him having to move back to a childhood home that he only visits twice a year for a reason. But with a best friend willing to make the move and help shoulder some of the burden with him, and an opening teaching a subject (or two) he loves at the same high school he went to himself, and a very handsome volunteer firefighter just across the street, maybe...maybe it won't be all that bad. - home (but x-rated this time) Whumptober '24 (Foelu) - Star Wars, Obi-Wan/Cody/Waxer/Boil/Rex/Helix, M A whumptober-themed AU of my fic Foelu, wherein Anakin shares classified information regarding Obi-Wan's biology with the Chancellor and Obi-Wan suffers the consequences.

Series:

Order 63 (2022) - Codywan

Monday - Middle Earth AU, art & fic Obi-Wan forgets about certain cultural traditions when she returns to the Shire with Cody after three years at war. She Plays Bass - Band AU, art & fic Up-and-coming rockstar Cody Fett is touring with well-established Obi-Wan Kenobi for the first time, and may have developed an extraordinarily predictable crush--much to the amusement of her bandmate, Fox. When the tour's booking agent messes up their hotel reservations, it leaves Cody in something of an interesting predicament--and in much closer quarters with Obi-Wan than intended. Wednesday - Star Trek AU, art Captain Obi-Wan Kenobi and her First Officer, Commander Cody, stumble upon strange flora on an away mission. This is nothing new, and neither is Obi-Wan's ill-advised urge to touch it. Cody fondly wonders if perhaps her Captain was not promoted to command simply to distance her from the scientific field where she started. Thursday - Sports / Roller Derby AU, art What's a little friendly competition between girlfriends, anyway? Friday - No O66 / Jedi!Cody AU, art A warm, cozy morning in the Jedi Temple, and a playful battle for the shared kettle.

Thank God You Introduced Me To Your Sister - RexObi

Thank God You Introduced Me To Your Sister - Sapphic Modern AU, fic Rex is feeling underappreciated in her relationship with her best-friends-with-benefits. Good thing his very attractive older sister's back in town on break from school, huh? Thank God For You - Sapphic AU, fic It's Rex's turn to take care of Obi-Wan.

SubObi Week (2022) (also contains Obi-Wan Omegaverse)

Day One - Jangobi, Omegaverse AU, fic Obi-Wan Kenobi's suppressants fail for the first time in his life as he's en-route to Kamino to investigate the attempt on Senator Amidala's life. Fortunately for him, there happens to be an Alpha available in the facility. Unfortunately for him, that Alpha is Jango Fett. Day Three - ObiMaul, Sith AU, art Day Four - Codywan, Omegaverse AU, fic Jango Fetts's intelligence provides the Republic with better footing at the start of the war. It is not the only thing he's left Obi-Wan with. Day Five - Codywan, Omegaverse AU, fic Obi-Wan Kenobi's pussy saves the galaxy. It just…takes a roundabout sort of path to get there. Also known as Obi-Wan Kenobi Gets To Have The Beginnings Of His Happy Ending, As A Treat. Day Six - Codywan, Omegaverse AU, fic Obi-Wan Kenobi's happy ending continues, just with a brief intermission as an old acquaintance resurfaces. Day Seven - Jangobi, art Some Jetii just look so pretty with a hand around their throat. Day Eight - Bail/Obi/Breha, art Bail and Breha Organa are unable to conceive on their own. They approach their dear friend Obi-Wan for a specific kind of assistance. He is more than happy to help.

Year of the OTP - Spirk

On Social Maturity Across Species - fic The Enterprise crew are sent to negotiate a new planet joining the Federation. Unfortunately for the Captain and First Officer, the people of Ektros IV don’t consider unattached individuals to be full-fledged adults and will not meet with Jim at the negotiation table unless he can prove his marital status. On Automatic Adrenal Responses - fic The crew of the Enterprise are sent to investigate reports of a rogue scientist developing illegal chemical weapons. Commander Spock becomes an inadvertent test subject. Spending All Our Time (Trying To Get Back Home Again) - fic In which the events of Beyond never take place, and Jim takes the Admiralty job. He manages to survive behind a desk for about a year before the need to be out there once more becomes too much for him to bear. But how will his old crew take his return to his post as Captain of the Enterprise?

They Told Me I Couldn't Bag A Jedi (And I Took That Personally)

Like A Puzzle - Codywan, fic The beginning of Marshall Commander Cody's Slut Era [Affectionate]™ You Think I Wouldn't? - CodyQuin, fic Marshall Commander Cody's Slut Era [Affectionate]™ Continues. A Fast And Dedicated Learner - Cody/Luminara/Shaak/Depa, fic Cody is invited to give batting for the other team a try. Still Got It - Cody/Mace, fic Cody decides to take some initiative as part of his Slut Era, only sort of because his brother basically dared him. Expanding Horizons - Cody/Obi/Kit, fic Cody's Slut Era™ Is Equal Opportunity

Art:

AO3 Postings

Too Spicy For Tumblr - Art

Tumblr Postings

2022

Fox Day Merry Christmas Hardcase Ides of March Padmé

2023

Ari Sketch Commander Cody Phase Knives Awful Little Carnivore Baby's Second Paleoart Stewjoni Wooley Bird Perserverence Window (gift for @lttrsfrmlnrrgby) Major Bent ObiMaul Hockey AU Foelu Art - Obi's Robe, Baby Kai-Tal, Obi's Pregnancy Outfit (gift for @lttrsfrmlnrrgby), Cody Civilian Clothes, Obi-Wan Halloween - Ms. Frizzle She Plays Bass Art - Kissing On Stage, Goofing Off Backstage (gift for @goddammitjim) Butch Lesbian Codywan (gift for @meebles) Leera Rain Day Barrisoka Fic Writer/Podcaster AU Codywan Monsterfucker Christmas Codywan Dinosaur AU (co-created with @meebles) (Extends into 2024) - Kissing on Boga, Boga 'Grooming' Obi-Wan, Kissing on the Bucking Parasaurolophus, Cody and Sunny Kulinday, Codywan's First Meeting (for Codywan Week '24)

2024

Curvy Lady Painting 2024 Clone Pin-Up Calendar - January, February, March, April Nautolan!Obi-Wan (gift for @meebles) Coday Art - Coruscant, Cody With A Steel Chair, Kamino, Civilian Clothes, AU Shaak Ti/Luminara Wound Tending Codywan Mermaid AU Kiss (gift for @meebles) Kesett Art (gift for @lothcatthree) Codywan Lift & Carry Kiss Cloud/Barret CodyQuin Art (gift for @lothcatthree) Expression Requests - Sleepy Quin, Laughing Shaak (De-Twinkified) Shibari Obi-Wan ObiBail Art McKirk Art Werewolf AU Girlies - Sleeping on the Couch Sugar Baby Fox Cody In A Gown Clone Art Requests - Crys Dyeing His Hair, Wooley Skateboarding, 17 With A Cadet, @lttrsfrmlnrrgby's OC Muffin, Sinker and Boost Pudding Makeout, Sleepy Cody, Bly Tripped, Cody and Bly Karaoke Codywan Mermay Cody With Baby Codywan Week Paleo Pines AU Halloween Paleo Pines Carnotaurus

[starryeyes2000]

Trust Love One More Time: Chapter 18

Read on AO3 or FFN

Pairing: McCoy x Fem!OC (Cara)

Rating: Teen

Word Count: 1.5k

Summary: Starfleet offered McCoy an escape and a purpose. He expected this choice precluded a second chance for love. Yet when a journalist embeds with Enterprise’s crew, he is drawn to her and must decide whether to risk his heart again.

This work dives into McCoy’s backstory – bitter divorce and other loss – and its effect on his choices: past, present and future.

Have the courage to trust love one more time and always one more time. – Maya Angelou

Excerpt:

McCoy stood with arms crossed over his chest, cheeks puffed out, and forehead furrowed. He held up a hand stalling others’ comments. “Wait for it.”

“For?” Kirk asked.

“The inevitable backtracking until,” the doctor tilted his head towards Cara as he emphasized the word, “she finally admits I’m right.”

Her voice was unyielding and insistent. “Not going to happen.” She stood with hands perched on her hips. “And by the way you’re not.”

He stepped closer to her. “I am.”

“Okay, maybe … maybe you correctly elucidated a tiny point of valid logic supporting your point of view.” Raising a hand she brought its index finger and thumb together until a hair’s breadth separated the digits. “Miniscule … very small.”

Continue Reading on AO3 or FFN

Story Masterlist | OCMasterlist | Author Masterlist

Taglist: @lord-westley @arrthurpendragon @ocappreciation @ocappreciationtag @bardic-tales @karimac @cobe76 @imaginesfire @themaradwrites @chickensarentcheap @darsynia

[madhattervanessa]

Mobile Masterlist

This Masterlist is currently under construction!

Smut is marked with a *, anything else is up on the Post itself

Narcos 

Javier Peña x f!Reader:

La Propina*

Desperate Times, Desperate Measures*

On the Edge*

Bridgerton

Anthony Bridgerton x f!Reader

Warmblood*

Benedict Bridgerton x f!Reader

Bachelor’s Button...* ...and Lady’s Slipper*

Game of Thrones

Oberyn Martell x f!Reader

Oranges & Rosemary*

Lord of the Rings

Erestor x f!Reader

Restore*

Glorfindel x f!Reader

Hope

Faith*

Thorin Oakenshield x f!Reader x Dwalin

Birds of Prey*

Triple Frontier

Francisco “Catfish” Morales x f!Reader

Plus One*

The Last Of Us

Joel Miller x f!Reader

Bookworm*

Star Trek

Leonard McCoy x f!Reader

Pain Management (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

RPF

Henry Cavill

The Stand In*

Full Attendance (1)* (2)*

The Sandman (Netflix)

Dream/Morpheus of the Endless x f!Reader

Valerian Root*

Yellowstone

Rip Wheeler x f!Reader

Kill You To Try (series) (eventual *)

Call of Duty

Simon “Ghost” Riley x f!Reader

Chance, Crush*, Crumble, Caress*, Crave

Stranger Things

Eddie Munson x f!OC

Sitting Doing Nothing

WIP List

Kinktober 2022 Masterlist

Kinktober 2023 Masterlist

[greeneyedpixie99]

Stars *Leonard "Bones" McCoy* Chapter Four

Summary: After living in her brother's shadow since the day they were born, Eleanor "Nell" Kirk decides to take her life into her own hands. Joining Starfleet, she finds not only a place to belong but potentially, someone she wouldn't mind spending her life with.

Pairing: Eleanor "Nell" Kirk x Leonard "Bones" McCoy

Warning: Mention of injuries, mention of blood, Character Death

CHAPTER FOUR

        After a briefing from the CMO in regards to the distress signal and what was expected of them and where each of us were assigned, I was quickly directed to Commander Spock who didn’t seem at all surprised by my assignment being aboard the newest flagship. The USS Enterprise was likely the ship that had been in construction when Jim and I joined (Jim out of a ‘dare’ and myself out of the desire to follow a childhood dream). The shuttle that led us from the Starfleet campus to the ship was long, bumpy and nauseating. 

“Cadet Kirk.” I turned to Spock after we disembarked the shuttle. “You are to report to medical and begin the pre-departure medical sweep with Doctor Puree. As soon as you’ve finished, please report to Admiral Pike on the bridge.” Keeping my face void of emotion I nodded quickly. 

Finding the Medical Bay on deck three wasn’t hard. Puree was busy assigning Nurses to various things which gave me enough time to select the standard blue uniform and change. I was half way through with the pre take off checklist when the almost too recognizable sound of my brother whining and Len’s prickly beside manor tickled against my ears. Whipping around I was preparing myself to snap at the two, given I knew that Jim was on academic probation, only to find Len supporting a good portion of my brother’s weight. Jim looked all sorts of sweaty and unwell.

     "Oh my god! What happened?" Leonard around me to dump Jim onto one of the cots, pressing my back by my shoulder. A stern look was written across his face but seemed to not reach his eyes. His eyes seemed a touch too soft, like he was worried I was going to flip on him.

     "Oh this wasn't worth it I wish, i didn't know you." I shot Leonard a look but grabbed a hypo spray to pass to him anyway, hoping he knew what he was doing. Especially considering it was now clear to me whatever was going on with Jim was thanks to Len. Likely a loophole because my brother was probably looking all pathetic after literally being grounded.

     "Here's a short lasting sedative."

     "I'm itching in my mouth, this is horrible."

     "Those symptoms won't last long, don't be an infant." With a quick stab of the hypo Jim fell flat onto the medical bed. Turning to Leonard, hands rested on my hips sternly, I waited for an answer. Several moments passed while I didn’t get one.

     "I swear to god if I have to act like your mothers right now I will hurt you. What the hell is going on." Leonard moved around me to change, exposing the muscles of his back to me before I looked away blushing like a schoolgirl. I was a grown woman, we were warping into an emergency and I was focused on him being shirtless in front of me. Priorities Nell Kirk. 

     "Jim is on academic probation, you obviously know that bit, but it means he can't be here unless he's a patient of mine. So I gave him a case of mudflew to get him on board. Don't tell Nell."

     "Bones!"

     "Eleanor!" Leonard snapped getting right into my face, that was the first time I had ever called him. I was always the first to tell my brother off for the nickname. The moment of annoyance between the two of us was a short lived moment, the longer I stared into his warm hazel eyes, the more I found I couldn’t remember what we had been arguing about. Leonard placed a hand on the apples of my check, moving closer. Breath caught in my throat and I found myself leaning forward. Len seemed to follow because our lips were about to touch, hands on his chest while one of his on my face and the other wrapped around her waist, when Jim shot upright gasping, sending the two us as far apart as humanly possible without looking suspicious.

     "Jim, I told you to stay d- good god!"

     "What the hell is that?" I squeaked, rushing to my brother's side. Trying to drive away the image of his eyes against mine, the feel of his hands on my face and waist. To ignore how right it felt and how close we had been to kissing.

     "I don't know- a reaction to the vaccine- dammit!" I quickly ran to the back room looking for anything to help get her brother's hand back to normal size, grabbing just about anything I could find, returning to them only to watch Leonard tear off after Jim. Groaning, I dropped the hypo onto the bed and rubbed my face. Whatever was wrong with Jim, the moment I nearly had with Len, and now the crisis. If I made it out of this without a few of my first gray hairs, it would be a miracle.

     "I swear to god." With a shake of my head I pulled myself up onto a medical bed. Pulling my PADD over to me from the moving table. It was quick work checking over the layout of med bay. Deck 6 was confusing but if I studied it long enough I knew I could get around no problem. Slipping off the medical bed, I grabbed my finished checklist and PADD. Doctor Puree was going over the protocol of the Medbay most likely. I knew at some point I had to head to the bridge to check in but I wasn’t too concerned about it right now.

     "What would you like me to get started on?" Dr. Puri looked from me to the number of ill patients that had been ushered on board thanks to the Doctors covering their care being pulled form earthside.

     "Cadet Lucas got bit by something. Can you check him out and let me know what the issue is so I can put it into his chart? After that, you’re free to head to the bridge, I think Admiral Pike wanted to speak with you." Nodding I and was half way over to Cadet Lucas, a boy in one of my starfleet protocol classes, when something hit the ship sending. I was transported back to eight years old. The way the shuttle had dropped from the sky. The feeling of free falling through space.

Except unlike then, the feeling didn’t stop. Instead a sharp pain tore through every inch of me. It was so painful, letting the black of rest was easy to let go into. I just prayed that I could wake up from it.

     "Dr.... Rep..." Everything hurt, from her head to her back and down to her toes. Between the numbness in my left leg and the weakness in my arms, I was certain whatever had happened was leaving me incredibly damaged. I wanted to wake up but the comfort of the black void and the lack of pain was alluring, so strong I was almost willing to let myself fall back into it. Even now, with my hearing partially working, my eyelids were heavy almost as if they were trying to aid in my return back under oblivion.

     "It's McCoy. Dr. Puri was on deck 6, he's dead… and I can't… I can’t find Eleanor Kirk."

     "Then you have inherited his responsibilities as Chief Medical officer, your first order as CMO is to find Cadet Kirk."

     "Aye, sir." there was rustling, not loud but not quiet either. It was a comforting background noise, but the longer it occurred and the less talking was issued the closer I was to returning to the dark warm nothingness. I wanted to get up to call out to Len, to tell him that I’m alright but tired and in some pain. That the rapid loss of feeling in my legs and arms wasn’t bad, but the doctor in me knew that wasn’t the case. The little girl in love with her best friend didn’t want him to find me in whatever condition I was in.

     "Oh God. Nell, come on Nell, wake up.” There was a comforting warmth against my check, I knew the touch as it had only been twenty minutes ago that I’d felt it for the first time. Len had found me, but at what cost. “Darlin' I need you to wake up so I can figure out where and what is injured. Can you do that from me doll, can you wake up." His voice sounded choppy to me, like he was speaking through a tunnel and a radio with really bad reception all at once. I wanted to force the wires holding my jaw shut to open and tell him I was okay, but everything felt miles away. I couldn’t even move my fingers.

     "Nurse Harper, I need you to get me a med kit. Now.”

     "Of course Dr. McCoy. How much blood has she lost?" The faintest bit of pressure dug into my spine, likely looking for the cause of all the blood. I didn’t feel like I was bleeding through. I felt sleepy and warm and content because Len hadn’t moved the hand cupping my face. I could still feel the aches and pains sharp and strong, but I was in his presence and that was all that mattered.     "Too much. Hurry. If we can't get her out from under there soon I'm not sure if she'll live." Everything suddenly was gone, like the radio had cut and the tunnel had gone silent. I was lost once again to the black nothingness, the only relief being the numbness and the pain was gone.

[440mxs-wife]

Mail Order Bride, Part 8: Arrivals and Departures

Pairing: Sheriff!McCoy x Paige Stone (OFC). Other characters: Nyota Uhura, Deputy Jim Kirk, Eleanora McCoy, Donna McCoy. Evan, Lyla, Jacob, Tyler (Stone family OCs), Doc Anderson

Word Count: 8540

General warnings:  As the title implies, mail-order bride arrangement, parent’s illness, outlaws, overprotective sister, Wild West-level violence but some fluff as well. Each chapter will have individual warnings as needed.

Chapter warning: Talk of pregnancy, probably still more medical inaccuracy, confrontation with ex, reunion with family, Leonard being just the best husband ever, parental death

A/N: This is set around the 1930′s in the Western U.S. I will endeavor to remain as true to the historical timeline as I can. There may be some....bending of history to fit the narrative, but hopefully nothing major. This is, after all, a work of fiction. :) Please let me know if you’d like to be tagged in future chapters!

A/N 2: This is longer than my other chapters, I know. I thought about splitting into two, but the title wouldn't have worked if I did. It's one of the most personal things I've ever written. In this chapter, my art is imitating my life, and I'm sure you'll understand what I mean when you read it. As always, thank you for reading, and on with the show. ❤

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Tears of joy brimmed in Lyla's eyes at seeing her firstborn after such a long absence. "My darling girl," she replied softly, and held her arms out to beckon her daughter to her side. With Leonard's help, Paige carefully lowered herself to sit on the edge of the mattress. She leaned forward as far as her stomach would allow, but she was still within her mother's reach. "Oh, my sweet girl, I can't believe you're here," she sobbed, then gasped as she looked closer. "And you're pregnant?!"

Paige nodded and felt the waves of emotion crashing over her all at once, from being back in her childhood home and seeing her family again. Mother and daughter embraced another few moments and then pulled back. Paige felt Leonard's hand on her knee as he crouched beside her, his thumb caressing the area. She covered his other hand with her own and gave him a watery smile.

Lyla turned to Evan and insisted that she wanted to join the others on the main floor of the house. He tried to discourage the idea, stating that she needed to rest, but Lyla wouldn't hear of it. She was tired of being cooped up in bed, and she was eager to hear more about the handsome man who accompanied her daughter on such a long journey. Evan finally relented and helped his wife walk out of their room, while Leonard assisted Paige.

By the time the four of them arrived in the living room, everyone was occupied with some sort of activity. Two were reading, while the rest were locked into either playing or watching an intense game of chess. Evan helped to get Lyla situated in her chair, as Leonard did for Paige but on the sofa. Jacob brought each of them a glass of lemonade, then took his perch on the arm of the sofa and flashed an expectant look to his sister.

She rolled her eyes at Jacob before clearing her throat for her announcement. "Everyone, I would like you to meet my husband, Leonard McCoy. Len, this is my family." When she called each sibling's name, Leonard acknowledged them with a wave or a nod. Her younger sisters were shy and giggly, as she expected they would be. In contrast, her brothers tried to appear as her "protectors", puffing out their chests to appear stern and tough. She secretly smiled, but also rolled her eyes at their antics.

"Mama, Papa, I know the contract said I would be marrying a man named Matthews," she started, her father nodding in agreement. Paige explained what kind of man Jed Matthews was, and how he met an unfortunate end after getting caught cheating at cards. She mentioned how she didn't know about any of Jed's shortcomings until she was saved by the sheriff, Leonard, at the train station.

After the shock wore off, Leonard quickly assured his in-laws that it wasn't their fault Jed had lied in his advertisement. He told them he admired Paige for what she was doing and her reasons for it. It made him want to do what was right for her and her family by taking over the contract. "I didn't expect to fall for her," he admitted with a sheepish grin. "However, she had my heart almost from the get-go. And it sure didn't hurt that she was the prettiest and kindest woman I'd ever met," he winked at Paige, causing her to blush.

Evan and Lyla could see how much in love their daughter was with her husband, reminding them a bit about their own courtship. It might not have been the most traditional of beginnings, but they knew Paige had a good man by her side. Because she trusted him, they silently agreed to do the same and officially welcomed Leonard into the family.

***

After a dinner of spaghetti and garlic bread, Tyler and the younger kids took care of the dishes. Once that chore was finished, Paige was roped into a friendly game of Monopoly with her siblings. Leonard chose instead to watch, so he could keep close to his wife and make sure she was comfortable. Between turns, Paige's and sometimes Leonard's hands roamed over her stomach as if to soothe the baby growing inside.

Throughout the game, Evan and Lyla sat their respective chairs, soaking up the atmosphere. Even though there were a few heated moments, the jabs traded between siblings were all in the spirit of the game. At one point, Evan glanced at his wife, who had a contented smile on her face as she watched her children laugh amongst themselves.

He couldn't help the grin that spread across his own face as he turned towards Lyla. "You are so beautiful when you smile, my darling," he noted.

Lyla chuckled softly. "Thank you, my love. I am....so happy right now. All of my children, together, under one roof, enjoying each others' company. Our eldest daughter is married to a good, strong, kind man, and she's having his child. My heart is full, Evan. This is one of the most perfect moments I could ever hope for, and I don't want to miss a second of it." She reached over and held out her hand, palm up, which he took in his and gave it a gentle squeeze.

***

A few days later, Paige and Leonard volunteered to do the grocery shopping for the family. Her sisters, Charlotte, Holly, and Molly, along with her youngest brother, Eddie, asked to accompany them. The girls insisted that they knew best what was needed at the house, while Paige wanted to make sure that Eddie was included.

When the kids asked if they could tag along, Leonard shrugged and quipped, "the more, the merrier," as he held the door open for his wife. They borrowed Evan's 1932 Chevrolet Confederate BA, since it was big enough to fit them all. He gave Paige a wink and a smile before closing her door and settling into the driver's seat.

Once inside the store, Leonard decided they should split the grocery duties. "Us men will handle the butcher's counter, while you ladies get started on the rest. That sound good to you, little man?" he asked Eddie. The young man's eyes grew wide as he gravely nodded and gave Leonard the thumbs-up. Leonard patted him on the shoulder, then gave Paige a long kiss on the cheek. "See you soon, darlin'," he grinned.

"Well, girls, looks like we have our work cut out for us," Paige told her sisters, smiling as the "men" walked away. Her eyes followed the pair and watched as her brother grabbed Leonard's hand, causing him to look down at Eddie. Before they disappeared around a corner, her husband shot her a mischievous wink and a small wave. She felt the tears forming in her eyes, knowing that, without a doubt, Leonard was going to be an amazing father.

"Sissy?" Charlotte piped up. Paige hummed in response, finally tearing her eyes away to focus her attention on her sister. "Are you having a boy or a girl?" she asked.

"Oh, Charlie, I won't know until the baby is born," she explained.

"What if you're having twins, like us?" Holly gasped excitedly.

"I am NOT having twins, Holls," she chuckled. "Twins would be wonderful, but it won't be this time around. I'm sure Doc Anderson would've told us by now if there were two babies instead of only one." Paige marked off a few more items on the list and massaged her lower back. She was about to head for the next aisle when she heard someone call for her from behind.

"Oh, my goodness, Paige? Paige Stone is that you?" the voice exclaimed. It was one that Paige would recognize anywhere, especially after all of the nasty remarks that had ever been thrown in her direction.

Paige cringed as she stopped in her tracks, her hands tightly curled around the shopping cart handle. She took a few deep breaths as she tried to keep her stress to a minimum for the baby's sake. "Hello, Abigail," she finally managed.

Abigail gave Paige the once-over from head to toe, her eyes finally landing on Paige's midsection. "Hmm, I see congratulations are in order! You do know who the father is, don't you?" she snickered.

Before Paige's outrage could take hold, a man approached Abigail's cart squinting at a piece of paper in his hand. "Darling, I found the list you were looking for. We should start with--" Thomas abruptly ended his statement and replaced it with a question. "Paige? Paige Stone? What on earth are you doing back in Columbus?"

By this time, Paige's patience had reached its end. "First of all, it's Paige McCoy, if you don't mind," she snapped. "I left here and got married almost a year ago. I live happily in Boulder, Colorado with my husband, and he happens to be the sheriff," she retorted. "Second, I only came back for a visit and to introduce him to my family. Not that it should matter at all to either of you."

"Is that a fact? Well, I had heard that you left town, but no one knew exactly why. I mean, there were so many rumors, it's hard to know what the truth really is. So, tell us, Mrs. McCoy, where is this husband of yours?" Abigail sneered, then leaned in close to Paige. "You know, I don't think there is a Mr. 'Sheriff-of-Boulder' McCoy husband. I think you made him up. You're wearing a fake wedding ring and only telling people you're married to avoid the disgrace of being an unwed mother out in public," she hissed.

"Excuse me?" a deep voice from behind them demanded. Everyone turned to see that Leonard and Eddie had returned from the butcher counter. He stood with his arms crossed over his broad chest, eyes narrowed at Thomas. "Is there some sort of problem here?"

"What business is it of yours? Who in the world are you anyway?" Thomas scoffed.

Leonard's face darkened at the other man's attitude. "I'm her husband, Sheriff Leonard McCoy, if you don't mind," he replied evenly.

Thomas audibly gulped. "W-well, you see, Paige and I are old friends who happened to run into each other after a long time," he stammered.

"You know, in my experience, 'old friends' usually don't make baseless accusations about a fake marriage. I don't take kindly to people who think it's okay to harass my wife. No one--and I mean, no one--has the right to speak to my wife like that." He snaked a protective arm around Paige's waist and tucked her into his side as he glared at Thomas and Abigail.

Paige glanced up and locked eyes with him and mouthed the words, "thank you" to her husband. Then he kissed the side of her head and mumbled "I love you" against her skin.

"W-well, we have a lot to do today, but perhaps we can chat some other time. Come on, Abigail, let's get our shopping done," Thomas insisted, gently tugging his wife's elbow. "Congratulations, Paige. On your marriage, and um....everything," he hastily added, then steered his wife away from the scene.

Leonard hooked a finger under Paige's chin and tilted it up to catch a glimpse of her warm hazel eyes behind her wire-rimmed spectacles. "You okay, sweetheart?" he asked.

"Of course I am, my love," she replied. After a peck on the lips from her husband, she returned her attention to the task at hand. "Okay, now that they're gone, what's next on our list?"

***

That night as they lay snuggled together in bed, their talk turned to the events at the grocery store. Leonard laughed at Holly's question about having twins, and how Charlotte wanted to know whether it was a boy or girl. "Son or daughter, makes no difference to me, only that he or she is healthy and so are you," he remarked.

Paige smiled and patted his chest. "That's exactly the way I feel as well," she murmured. "I saw Eddie take your hand on the way to the butcher's counter. I thought that was so sweet, Len," she whispered. "He's always been kind of quiet, being the youngest of eight, but I've never seen him take so easily to someone he just met. Means he trusts you, and that's one of the ways I know you're going to be an incredible father."

Leonard's heart swelled at hearing his wife's praise. He admired how easily she interacted with her brothers and sisters, with understanding, kindness and love. It reinforced what he already knew, which was that she would make an outstanding mother. "Say, who was that woman who was giving you so much trouble in the grocery store?"

She snorted with disgust at remembering the earlier incident. "Ugh. Her? That was Abigail Forrester, now Abigail Morgan, Thomas' wife. He decided to end the relationship with me in favor of one with her," she muttered.

"He let you go? Then I suppose I should send him a fruit basket, or thank you card, or something, because he really did me a huge favor," he affirmed with a laugh. When he saw the shocked and annoyed look on Paige's face, he quickly moved to clarify his thoughts. "I-I mean, he broke your heart, which I should punch him for, but if he hadn't ended things with you, we might never have met."

"Hmm, I suppose you have a point," she replied grudgingly. "I can't even imagine my life without you in it, and I don't want to, either."

"Darlin', a world without you is one I don't want to live in. The only place I want to be is where you are mine and I am most definitely yours." He curled his arm around his wife to pull her closer for a kiss that quickly turned passionate. "I love you, Paige."

"I love you, Leonard. Sweet dreams, my love." She reached behind her to turn off the light and closed her eyes.

***

Soon it was time for the McCoys to begin their return trip back to Boulder, Colorado. The entire Stone family insisted on seeing them off at the depot, including Lyla. Accepting her decision was not without some difficulty on Evan's and Paige's part, each encouraging her to stay home and rest. However, Lyla maintained that she felt well enough, and would therefore accompany them to the station.

With the luggage situated on top of the car, everyone piled in as best as possible, and they journeyed to the train station. Paige and Leonard were on the receiving end of many hugs that day, from siblings and parents. She could tell that her husband was still a bit overwhelmed with all the attention from her large family as compared to his smaller one. Nevertheless, she happily noted that he had relaxed a bit as compared to when they first arrived. 

Finally, it was Evan's and Lyla's turn to say their last goodbyes before it was time to board the train. Leonard stuck his hand out to Paige's father, who grasped it and pulled him into a fierce hug. "You're a good man, Leonard McCoy," Evan remarked, his voice gruff with emotion. "I know I don't need to tell you to take care of my daughter. But, as her father, I'm required to remind you," he chuckled.

"I understand, and thank you, sir. You have my word that I will do everything in my power to take care of Paige. You and Lyla did a great job of raising her, and she's the best thing that's ever happened to me. I hope you and some or all of the family can visit after the baby is born," Leonard suggested.

"We'll do our best, though a lot of that depends on Lyla and her health. She's a strong woman, God love her, and she's battling this with all she's got. I know she'll keep fighting so she can meet her grandbaby at some point," Evan remarked.

A few feet away, mother and daughter were exchanging their goodbyes. "I'm so proud of you, Paige. You found yourself a wonderful man who loves you, and now you're going to be a mama, too," she gave her a watery smile.

"I'm scared, Mama," Paige whispered. "I mean, what if I can't do this? What if I'm not fit to be a mother?"

Lyla cradled her daughter's face in her hands and locked eyes with her. "Darling, listen. You've had plenty of practice with your brothers and sisters, and they love you. I have faith that you can do this, that you will be an amazing mother. Trust yourself and trust that husband of yours, and you'll be all right, sweetheart," she whispered, a few wayward tears sliding down her face.

Paige nodded and covered her mother's hands with her own. "I love you, Mama," she choked out.

"I love you too, my sweet girl," Lyla answered, touching her forehead to Paige's and took a deep breath. By this time, the men had joined them. Sensing the heavy exchange of emotions, Evan and Leonard put their arms around their wives in a kind of group hug.

When the conductor bellowed out the last call, Leonard and Paige broke away and reluctantly boarded the train. They found their seats, which had a window that faced the platform. As the train pulled away, everyone waved frantically until they were out of sight. Evan gathered his family and shuffled back to the car to go home. Although the house felt a little empty without Paige and Leonard, the family took solace in the new memories made from the visit.

***

In the weeks since the McCoys returned home, Leonard was kept busy training his two new deputies, Carter Davis and Pavel Chekov. At the same time, Paige was occupied with setting up the nursery. Leonard and Jim had placed the crib against the wall, with a changing table at one end and a chest of drawers next to it. Little by little, Paige had been washing the baby clothes and blankets she had received thus far and placing them in the drawers.

Nyota and Christine were only too happy to help their dear friend as they fawned over the tiny clothes and shoes of various sizes being added to the drawers. Sometimes Donna and Eleanora would visit as well, often leading to Leonard coming home to a house full of giggling women. He didn't mind at all, because he knew Paige needed the distraction and companionship while he was at work.

Fortunately, his deputies were doing well enough in their training that he was able to leave the office a bit early one day. He was looking forward to seeing his wife after some of the long hours he'd been working. Before leaving town, he stopped at the florist for a bouquet of assorted blooms that he hoped would brighten her day.

However, when Leonard walked in the door, he was met with silence rather than the usual group of chattering women. Since this was unusual, he called out for Paige. He didn't hear anything at first, so he called her name again, straining his ears as he walked further into the house. That was when he heard a soft, "in here" from his wife. A strangled sob escaped with it, accompanied by a sniffle coming from the direction of the kitchen.

Paige was sitting at the table, her hands rubbing absently over her ever-growing stomach. She was brokenly humming what he surmised was a lullaby, tears streaming down her cheeks. He watched as her hands stopped and she dropped her head into her hands. Her shoulders began to shake with silent sobs and Leonard could stand it no longer.

He lightly knocked on the doorframe because he wanted to make her aware of his presence without startling her. Paige gasped in surprise, her fingertips hastily wiping the tears from her eyes. "Uh, L-Len, you're home early. Is everything okay?" she asked, flustered.

Leonard moved further into the kitchen and placed the bouquet on the table. He knelt between Paige's legs, one hand resting on her thigh and reached up with the other to cradle her face. "I believe I should be asking you that, darlin'," he remarked. Then he held out his arms and Paige wasted no time in throwing her arms around his neck. She clung to him as closely as she could at this stage in her pregnancy.

His hand stroked the back of her head as her sobs shook her body. "Oh, sweetheart, what's going on in that pretty head of yours?" he murmured.

After a few minutes, her cries had subsided to mostly sniffles. Paige drew back so she could wipe her cheeks and face her husband. "I....I was thinking about Mama today. Been doing that a lot since we've been back, trying to prepare myself. Because sooner or later, this illness of hers is going to run its course."

"Baby, I know you're probably still a little shaken up after seeing her. Maybe because you haven't been there to know the extent of how her illness has affected her. She's still here, though, and fightin' so hard to stay here," he affirmed.

"But, I have to face the fact that someday, she's not going to be here. And it's not fair, Len! There's so much she'll miss, like birthdays, anniversaries, and seeing my brothers and sisters grow up. I....and what about our child? Will she even be here to meet him or her?" she cried.

"Darlin', I wish to God I knew the answer to that question. And you're right, it isn't fair. Not to you, or your mama, or anyone. I can only imagine how hard this is for you and your family to be experiencing, and I wish you didn't have to," he responded.

"I know, I wish it wasn't this way as well. I can't even fathom what my father's going through, watching the love of his life battling for every breath. Knowing that one day, she won't be there across the table or on the other side of the bed from him," she added softly.

Leonard pulled her even closer, flush with his chest and his chin resting on top of her head. "It would leave a terrible achin' in my heart if for some reason you were gone from my life," he shared. "I don't know if that's somethin' I'd ever get over."

"I feel the same, Len. You're in my heart and my soul, and a hurt like that would take a long time to get over, not that I ever could. I just wish there was something more I could do for her, for them. I'm the oldest, I feel like I need to step up and take charge and help out. Only, we have our life here as well," Paige noted.

"Sugar, the time will come when your help will be needed, though maybe not in the most obvious ways," he offered. He felt her head nod against his chest in response.

Paige noticed the bouquet on the table and caught Leonard's gaze, flashing him a shy smile. "Are those for me?" she wondered.

Without breaking eye contact, he nodded and grazed her cheek with the back of his hand. "Though no flower in the world could ever match your beauty, my love," he murmured.

"You sure are a smooth talker, Leonard McCoy," she replied with a wry grin. "I love you so much."

"I love you too, sugar," he returned as he caught her in his embrace once again.

***

The next couple of months pass without much incident, with Paige's body continuing to grow as she drew ever nearer to her due date. During that time, she made sure that the house was spotless, as if preparing for a royal visit. If she wasn't scrubbing or sweeping something, she was rearranging the nursery, anything to keep herself busy.

Leonard tried to convince her that everything was perfect, and that she was only going to make herself more tired. Fortunately, his mother explained that Paige was "nesting", which was completely normal and part of getting ready for the baby. She stated that the best he could do would be to support her and keep her from becoming completely exhausted during this phase. There would be time for that later, while bringing his son or daughter into the world.

As she neared her approximate due date, Paige began to experience some of the symptoms of the first stages of labor that Dr. Anderson described. It started slowly, with some tightening around her midsection that lasted for a moment or two, then subsided, only to return some time later. She alternated between wanting to sit down and relax to feeling restless and going for a walk around the house. Then there were the endless trips to the bathroom at all hours. She was almost to the point where she considered sleeping in the bathtub, if only to be nearer to the toilet.

On one of these nights, Paige felt the urge, so she carefully eased out of bed so as not to wake her husband. As soon as she stood, she experienced a gush of fluid from between her legs. This was followed by a sharp stab in her abdomen, causing her to cry out in pain. At her outburst, Leonard jolted out of bed and rushed to her side. He helped her to the chair in their room while he regained his bearings and focused on the next steps.

"It's all right, sweetheart, you're going to be okay," he soothed. "I'll be right back, I'm just going to get something to clean you up," he winked then ran off to the bathroom. He returned with a warm wet washcloth and helped her into a change of clothes. "Let's get you back in bed and as comfy as possible, then I'll call Doc Anderson."

With Leonard's assistance, Paige got back into bed, with several pillows stacked behind her to keep her sitting upright. It wasn't long before there was another sharp pain to her midsection. She gripped the sheets, attempting to ride out the wave of extreme discomfort she was feeling. Her breaths were coming out in short bursts as a way to manage the contraction until it eventually subsided.

Once he was sure Paige was stable, Leonard kissed her forehead and ran downstairs to the phone to call Doc Anderson. The physician relayed some instructions and promised he and his nurse would be at their house as soon as possible.

Leonard then called Jim to put him in charge of the sheriff's office, after he relayed a few instructions concerning Carter and Pavel. Jim assured him that everything would be fine, that all would be taken care of in his absence. He reminded Leonard that he needed to stay focused on Paige and the baby and sent his best wishes for a smooth delivery.

After he replaced the phone receiver, he walked over and unlocked the door. As soon as he turned the latch, he heard the start of another contraction and rushed up the stairs. "How far apart are they, darlin'?" he asked, grasping her hand.

He watched as she scrunched her eyes shut and tried to breathe through the pain. "Ab-about....e-every f-four m-m-minutes," she answered between bursts of air.

"Okay, sweetheart, I've got you. Doc Anderson is on his way--" he paused when he heard movement downstairs, then smiled. "In fact, he just got here. We're up here, Doc!" he called.

Soon Dr. Anderson and Nurse Kelley reached the top of the stairs and they strode in with kind smiles to assess the situation. "Looks like Baby McCoy is intent on making an appearance," he commented. "Let's see where we are in the process and how your labor is progressing, shall we?" He moved to the end of the bed and began his examination.

Leonard moved to sit behind his wife, her back against his chest. The friendly but efficient physician took note of how quickly the contractions were occurring to determine the stage of labor. Dr. Anderson concluded that Paige was fully dilated and would soon feel the urge to push, and encouraged her to do so. Leonard was her support, both physically and emotionally, mumbling a stream of reassuring words in her ear.

A few but exhausting hours later, a new life was welcomed into the world and into the McCoy family. A healthy baby girl, Layla Ann McCoy, was born and it was love at first sight for her parents. After she was cleaned up and checked over, Dr. Anderson placed the newborn on her mother's chest, her father looking on in wonder.

"Congratulations, Sheriff and Mrs. McCoy," Nurse Kelley remarked, with Dr. Anderson echoing the sentiment. "She's beautiful."

"Gets that from her mother," Leonard replied softly, then kissed Paige's temple. With their eyes still locked on their daughter, they thanked the doctor and his nurse for their assistance. Dr. Anderson stuck around long enough to make sure the baby got started with her first feeding. Then he and Nurse Kelley bid the new parents goodbye and quietly exited the house.

***

News of Layla's birth spread like wildfire among their friends and Leonard's family. Donna and Eleanora barely waited all of twenty-four hours before they stopped by to see the new addition. As expected, Auntie Donna and Grandma Eleanora were immediately smitten with the baby. They also brought a few prepared meals to keep in the refrigerator. This would prove useful for the new parents while they adjusted to a new schedule or if they didn't feel like cooking.

Other visitors soon followed, with Leonard's protective side making an appearance when Paige or Layla showed signs of needing sleep. His girls were of the utmost importance to him, and he wasn't afraid to escort visitors out of the house if he thought they'd stayed a bit too long.

Leonard also made sure to send the birth announcement in a telegram back to Paige's family back in Columbus, Ohio. A few days later, Evan sent a return message that stated they would be arriving in Boulder within two weeks' time, and Leonard was hopeful that the visit would include Lyla. With her inclusion, it would mean doctors deemed her well enough to travel that far from home, as long as she was with the family.

He wanted their visit to be a surprise, yet was well aware that Paige would want everything to be perfect, including a spotless house. However, he was also learning the challenges of adapting to a newborn and how it can wreak havoc on a new parent's sleep cycle. For this reason, he called for reinforcements, namely Nyota, Christine, Eleanora, and Donna. The ladies all pitched in to keep things neat and orderly, as well as to provide a bit of respite for Paige.

On the day of the family's arrival, Leonard got ready for work as if it were any other day. Even though he knew it was going to be anything but an ordinary day. He couldn't wait to see the look on his wife's face when she saw her family standing on their doorstep. The thought curved his lips into a smile which was still present when he went downstairs for breakfast.

Paige had completed Layla's morning feeding, then placed her in the bassinet that sat at one end of the table while she fixed breakfast. She had just finished sliding some scrambled eggs onto Leonard's plate when he waltzed into the kitchen. He paused at the table to bid his daughter good morning and kiss the top of her head, cooing at her to try and coax a smile out of her.

He soon abandoned his efforts of a smile from Layla and turned his attention to Paige. "Mmm, good morning, sweetheart. This breakfast looks amazing, thank you," he beamed before leaning down and pulling her closer for a kiss. He plucked the plates from her hands and turned to set them on the table before he pulled out her chair for her.

"Thank you, my love," she replied brightly. They each dug into their meal, with sounds of approval coming from Leonard after nearly every bite. When he was with Jocelyn, he was responsible for most of the cooking, which was mediocre at best. Though his ex-wife's mother taught her the basics, Jocelyn's culinary knowledge didn't develop much beyond those fundamentals.

Luckily, Paige was more than qualified in this area, which saved his palate but threatened to expand his waistline. She was especially gifted with her baked goods, from cookies and cakes, to muffins and pies. Prior to having Layla, her sweet treats were frequently for sale in Nyota's café. No birthday in Leonard's office passed without a birthday cake from Mrs. McCoy, in whatever flavor the birthday person desired.

When Leonard was finished with breakfast, he placed their plates in the sink to be washed later, then returned to the table. He leaned down to kiss the top of Paige's head, but first hooked a finger under her chin to catch sight of her warm, hazel eyes he adored. "Sure wish I didn't have to work today. I'd much rather stay home with you," he grinned.

"Hmm, I'd much rather you stayed home with me too," she agreed. "But you still have those two new deputies to boss around, and that's probably more fun than I'll be having around here."

If you only knew, he thought. "I suppose I should get going. Lots of 'bossing around' to do," he smirked. "I love you, sweetheart," he remarked as his lips met the crown of her head.

He drew back to see her beaming smile directed towards him. "I love you too, Len. Have a good day at work, and please be safe," she added. 

"I will darlin', I promise," he responded. He pulled his watch out of his pocket and checked the time. Only another hour before the Stone family would be arriving on the train, and he couldn't wait to reveal the surprise to his wife.

He leaned over Layla's bassinet and noticed she was asleep. His finger gently traced her delicate cheek, being careful not to wake her. "Be good for Mama, babygirl," he whispered before heading for the door. He paused at the threshold, shot a wink at Paige over his shoulder, then closed the door behind him.

***

After Leonard departed, Paige moved into the kitchen and began to tidy up from breakfast, humming to herself as she worked. Our first anniversary is next week, she suddenly realized. A smile crept up on her face when she thought of the events of the past year and how much her life had changed. From leaving home and arriving in Boulder, to the friends she's made, and of course, in her marriage to Leonard. And now, I'm a mama, she noted as she leaned down to kiss her sleeping daughter's forehead.

First anniversary is said to be paper, which lead her to the idea of a book as a gift for Leonard. He devoured crime novels, which some may think unusual for a sheriff surrounded by it every day. Not Leonard, though, as one of his favorite authors was Agatha Christie. Paige made a note to herself to check the bookstore in town for Miss Christie's latest novel when she's there for her weekly visit with Nyota.

Three hours later and satisfied with her progress, Paige was enjoying a glass of cold water when she heard a knock at the door. Puzzled, she set down her drink on the table and made her way to the door. "Who is it?" she called. "Len, is that you?" she asked, thinking he may have decided to come home for lunch but had perhaps forgotten his key.

"It's me, sugar, but I can't reach my keys out of my pocket. My hands are full, can you please open the door for me?" he explained through the door.

Paige unlocked the door and the sight before her was enough to knock her over with a feather. Her parents and all of her siblings were standing on the front porch, having traveled all the way from Columbus, Ohio. "SURPRISE!!" her family whisper-yelled.

Her hand flew to her mouth and tears sprang to her eyes as she scanned everyone's face until finally landing on her husband. "Sorry, darlin', for fibbin' to you, but I very much wanted this to be a surprise."

"Oh, it is, it absolutely is, Len," she affirmed. "This is wonderful! I'm guessing this why you're not at work today?" she wondered.

Leonard nodded. "Jim's mindin' the office for the next few days, so I can be here with you and your family. Can ya forgive me?" he asked.

Paige hesitated, but only for a moment before her face broke out into a huge smile. "Of course I can, but there's nothing to forgive, Len. This is the best surprise ever!" she gushed. "Goodness, where are my manners? Come in, come in, everyone!"

Leonard helped usher the family into the house, where hugs were exchanged all around. Evan and Lyla remarked how lovely their home was, while the kids talked about their first train ride. Everyone was trying to keep quiet because the baby was still sleeping, but it wasn't long before the first cry was heard.

Paige rose from her seat at the table and reached inside the bassinet to calm the awakening child. "Shh, sweetheart, it's okay, Mama's here. Mama's here," she crooned. Leonard was at her side, his hand stroking his daughter's hair as she worked through the process of waking up. He pressed a kiss to the top of Layla's head and offered to change her diaper. Paige carefully transferred the baby to her husband's waiting arms and gazed fondly at him as he walked upstairs.

"We named her Layla Ann McCoy. She'll have to meet her Nana, Papa, and all of her aunties and uncles after she comes back downstairs from a diaper change," Paige giggled. "While we wait, would anyone like anything to drink?"

A few minutes later, Paige was pulling the glasses out of the cupboard when she was startled by the arms sneaking around her waist from behind. A small shriek of surprise escaped her, while she felt the rumble of laughter in Leonard's chest as he pulled her close to his body. "Relax, darlin', it's just me. I left our little one in the very capable hands of her grandmother so I could help you," he explained.

The couple returned to the group with the refreshments and distributed them around the room. In the meantime, Layla had since left her grandmother's arms and had been passed to her grandfather. Evan's eyes shone with unshed tears as he gazed at his granddaughter, her hand clasped tightly around his index finger. "She's beautiful, Paige. Most perfect thing I've ever seen," he whispered.

Lyla reached out her hand, beckoning her daughter to her side. "She's amazing, just like her mother," she affirmed.

"Thank you, Mama and Papa. She's really a good baby, not too fussy. Of course, as soon as I say this, she'll start crying and prove me wrong," Paige giggled and everyone else joined in. "Where is everyone staying while you're here? I'd love for you to stay here, but we don't have enough rooms," she mentioned.

Leonard gently placed a hand on her shoulder and her attention swung to his soft gaze. "Ma and Donna offered up the empty rooms in their house, which isn't too far away from here. Just up the road," he confirmed.

Paige slumped into his side as he curled his arm around her and held her close. "You really did think of everything, didn't you, my love," she murmured. "Thank you so much, Len."

"Anything to see a smile on your lovely face, sugar," he replied as they watched everyone interact with their daughter.

***

The next few days included socializing with and getting better acquainted with Eleanora and Donna. Leonard drove Paige and the baby to the house on his way to work so she could be with the family. Once he got her settled in, he grabbed himself a muffin and a coffee, kissed his wife and daughter goodbye, and left for the office.

When they all headed to town for the weekly grocery run, they stopped by Nyota's café for lunch. Not only was she happy to see her best friend and Layla, but to meet Paige's family as well. Warm hugs were exchanged, and there were free hot fudge sundaes all around, much to the delight of Paige's siblings.

Before the last night of the family's visit, Paige decided to have an early Thanksgiving dinner, since everyone was together. Leonard's mother and sister were invited, as were the sheriff's deputies and their partners. The seating arrangements had to be creative, as the table wasn't large enough to accommodate everyone, but no one cared. Being together was the most important, and as long as they were, that's all that mattered.

Since Paige did most of the cooking, she was shooed out of her own kitchen when it was time for clean-up duty, albeit under protest. Evan and Leonard assumed dish duty, while Jacob and Tyler hung around in case there was any "man talk" going on. Paige and the younger siblings joined their mother and the others in the living room, where Layla was being fed, courtesy of her Nana.

Paige watched as her mother guided Layla through the feeding process, burping her every so often. After eight children, Lyla was definitely an expert, though each child was different for her. "I remember when you were this small," she remarked softly, her eyes never leaving the baby's face. "After you were done feeding, you'd snuggle right into the crook of my arm and go straight to sleep."

"Layla does pretty much the same thing, whether it's me or Len that's feeding her," Paige replied. "How're you doin', Mama?" she wondered.

Lyla sighed. "I'm doin' the best I can, sweetheart. I take it one day at a time, try to get the most joy possible out of every day. Your father, bless his soul, has been with me every step of the way, no matter what, in good days and not-so-good days. He's definitely taking the 'in sickness and in health' portion of our vows very seriously," she added with a watery chuckle.

Oh Mama, she thought as she fought back the tears gathering at her lash line.

By this time, the kitchen was all clean and those on duty for it returned to the living room. Seeing that Layla was asleep, Leonard gently scooped her up and took her upstairs and tucked her into her crib. She fussed a little at the loss of contact with him, but soon relaxed and settled back into sleep mode.

When he returned to the living room, Evan was in the middle of a story about something that happened at his workplace. Jacob chimed in afterwards with news from his job, and the others talked about what they were learning in school. One by one, Paige's brothers and sisters were showing signs of sleepiness, thus it was agreed for everyone to return to Eleanora's for the evening.

The next morning, Leonard and Jim drove the family and their luggage to the train station for the trip back to Columbus. Paige and Layla rode with Leonard, while Donna and Eleanora tagged along with Jim. Many tearful goodbyes were exchanged, along with lingering hugs and wishes for a safe trip home. Paige took Jacob and Tyler aside and implored them to look out for their parents in her absence, not that they needed to be reminded.

When the conductor hollered the final call for ticketed passengers, the Stone family reluctantly peeled themselves away and boarded the train. As luck would have it, they managed to secure window seats for one last look before they were pulled away from the station. Paige balanced Layla against her hip and waved her little hand to the family as the train departed.

***

The day of Layla's six-month appointment was a bright, sunny day, with only a few wispy clouds in the sky. Dr. Anderson was pleased with her development and how she'd reached every milestone for her age. Leonard and Paige ended the day with lunch at Nyota's café and visited Donna and Eleanora before finally heading home.

Since Layla had fallen asleep in her car seat, Leonard carried her upstairs to her crib to continue her afternoon nap. He fully intended to sneak in some quality snuggle time with his wife while his daughter slept. With Layla occupying so much of their time, it was important to him that he keep that physical connection with Paige. He wanted to show how much he loved her, not only as a wife and mother, but also as a woman.

Paige sat down on the couch and started to arrange the pillows in the corner, leaving room for Leonard to join her. She liked to sit and rest her back to his chest, his arms holding her close to his body. She was reaching for a blanket to drape over them when the phone rang, which caused her to freeze in her movements.

She rose from her seat to answer the phone, each step filling her with trepidation. Most anyone she knew preferred to communicate in person, rather than use the telephone. As she approached the ringing phone, her fears grew that this would be the call she'd been dreading for many months. "Hello?"

"Hey, Paige," the voice on the other end answered shakily. It was Jacob and it sounded like he'd been crying but was trying to hold it together. "I have some news for you about Mama."

Paige took a sharp intake of breath at his response. She didn't notice that Leonard had returned to the living room and immediately knew something had happened. He rushed to her side and wrapped his arms around her from behind. "What is it, Jacob? What's happened, is Mama okay?" she asked urgently.

Jacob explained that about a week ago, Mama had fallen in the kitchen. When she stuck her hand out to brace herself for the fall, she ended up with a deep cut on her thumb. "Papa took her to the hospital to get stitched up. When they took her vital signs, the results with her heart and lungs caused the doctor to be concerned, so she was admitted."

"Wait a second, so she's in the hospital?" she wondered. By Jacob's hesitation to answer, she knew there was more to the story, so she asked him to continue.

"They hooked her up to one of those machines to give her breathing treatments, only it wasn't really helping much. Over the past few days, she kept getting weaker until....I'm so sorry, Paige, but Mama's gone," he choked out.

The receiver dropped from Paige's hand and her knees buckled under her; however, Leonard fortunately caught her in time. He guided her back to sit on the sofa, then went back to the phone. He could hear Jacob calling out for his sister, so Leonard assured him that he would take care of her. He offered what he hoped were some comforting words, then ended the call.

Paige was still in a state of shock, not knowing what to think or what to do. All she knew was that her mama, the person she turned to for guidance and share her joys, was now gone. And she didn't get the chance to say goodbye. That thought alone opened the floodgates and she broke down as if her heart had shattered into a million pieces.

Leonard returned to her side instantly, gathering her in his arms to comfort her. "Sweetheart, I'm so sorry. I know how much your ma meant to you," he murmured. Although he'd only met his in-laws twice, he felt as if he'd known them since the day he and Paige met. They welcomed him into their family, without question, despite their non-traditional courtship.

As he held and comforted his distraught wife, his thoughts drifted to when he lost his father, David, all those years ago. An incurable illness had taken his life as well, which left a teenaged Leonard as the man of the house to look after his mother and sister. Perhaps that was why he became a sheriff, so he could protect those who couldn't do so for themselves.

After some time, Paige's sobs gave way to quiet whimpers and sniffles, though Leonard continued to hold her. His hand rubbed up and down her back to soothe her while he whispered words of comfort in her ears. When she placed her palms on his chest and pushed a little, he loosened his hold a bit. He brushed the hair from her face and tucked it behind her ear. Then he wiped the tears from her cheeks with his thumb and kissed her forehead.

It wasn't much longer before they heard Layla's cries, signaling she was done with her nap and wanted out of her crib. Paige started to rise from her seat, but Leonard nudged her as he insisted he would attend to their daughter. He hooked a finger under her chin to tilt her face up to meet his, then leaned in and kissed her lips. "I'll be right back, my love," he promised.

While she waited for Leonard to return with Layla, she could hear him up in the room, chattering away with her. It brought a small smile to her face, hearing how sweet he was in his one-sided conversation. She was so lost in thought that she didn't notice right away that he had returned to the living room, Layla on his hip. "See there, sweet pea? There's your beautiful mommy," he cooed. "She's kind of sad right now, and I think she needs some lovin's from you," he winked.

Paige gave Leonard a tired smile and held out her arms. "Come see Mama, sweetheart," she replied softly. He obliged, and watched as she embraced their child, eyes closed and gently swaying her side to side. He decided that some tea may help his wife relax, so he quietly excused himself from the room.

Once he had left, Paige positioned Layla lengthwise on her thighs, with her head resting on her mother's knees, and her feet pointed at her stomach. Layla's hands tightly grasped Paige's thumbs, while her remaining fingers curled around her daughter's tiny fists. "Someday, my little love, I'm gonna tell you allll about your grandmother. She only met you that one time, but I know she loved you sooo much. We even named you after her. Well, sort of, anyway," she gave a watery chuckle.

Leonard stood silently in the doorway, watching, as Paige continued. "I remember everything she ever told me, everything she taught me, and I can't wait to share it all with you." She brushed away a teardrop that had landed on her daughter's forehead before picking her up and placing her on her shoulder. "I love you so much, Layla," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. Her eyes then landed on Leonard, tears streaming from them in earnest now.

He quickly crossed the room and sat down beside her, pulling mother and baby close to his side. "Shh, it's all right, sweetheart. I've got you," he soothed. They stayed curled up together for some time, until Leonard felt Paige's breathing had evened out because she'd fallen asleep.

Leonard gently plucked Layla from her mother's arms and rose from his seat. After placing his daughter in the bassinet, he nudged his wife until she was laying down on the sofa. He draped a blanket over her sleeping form and returned to pick up his daughter. "Let's get you somethin' to eat, hmm?" he suggested as they headed to the kitchen together.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Tags:

@marvelouslytrekking​ @writercole​ @spacedancer1701​ @anna-phora @hlabounty96 @darkestfireee​​  @rooweighton​​  @phoenixisred @avnging-221b @differentbluebirdfury @missvelvetsstuff @evangeliamerryll