thesconesyard

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 463

McCoy

The past month had seemed to drag and McCoy couldn’t be any more happy that it was over. He reached over and caught Scotty’s fingers, giving them a quick squeeze.

“Are ye taking us to Delancey’s?” Scotty asked. “Ye do like showing up without a reservation.” McCoy could hear the humor in his husband’s voice. He had given thought to the best restaurant in town, where they had been a few times and always treated excellently because of who he was.

“Somewhere else,” McCoy replied. He had been busy in spare moments the last few days planning this evening. He wanted something good, obviously, but also something that felt a bit more normal than the very upscale Delancey’s. He had poured over reviews and menus from restaurants within walking distance to campus.

“That was perfect,” Scotty said as McCoy snuggled up to his husband’s side as they exited the restaurant. “Just the right thing.”

“I knew you’d like it,” McCoy smiled.

“Now, do ye still want that walk on the beach, or we could save it for during the day tomorrow?”

McCoy glanced up at the dark sky over them. His free hand was dug deep into his pocket. Down by the water the breeze would be even colder.

“Tomorrow I guess,” he reluctantly agreed.

“I wouldn’t want ye to get cold,” Scotty grinned, pulling McCoy tighter.

“But I’ve got you to warm me up,” McCoy chuckled.

“Aye, and if ye caught ill from the cold then I’d have to put up with ye being a stubborn grump.”

“Hey!” McCoy laughed. “Besides, you don’t get sick just from being cold.”

“Ye would just to spite it all.” Scotty laughed, but stopped and turned to kiss McCoy before he could make a playfully outraged comment.

“Still up for a movie though?” Scotty asked when he stepped back.

McCoy’s free hand touched his lips lightly as they began to walk again. Scotty’s kiss had been very warm against the cool night air, and his thoughts swam a little at the thought of just getting his husband home and spending the rest of the evening in their bed.

“Len?”

“Yeah! I mean, yes. Let’s go see something, enjoy this freedom.” McCoy’s cheeks warmed in the darkness.

As much as he liked the idea of going home, it had been much longer than a month that they had been stuck on campus. They had only been out once after returning from winter break. And that time had been when the Romulan had first shown himself. McCoy shivered at the thought.

“If ye’re too cold love we can go back,” Scotty said in a concerned tone.

“No, I’m fine. It’s alright out here,” McCoy said quickly.

“If ye’re sure…”

“I am!” McCoy smiled and squeezed Scotty’s hand. “I’m sure. I’ve got you and we’ll be at the theater soon.”

Part 464

Scotty

The movie the boys had chosen was an exciting action comedy. Scotty had been recommended the movie by Robbie during their last phone call and it had been a really good decision to watch it.

"And the scene with the chase! It was just so good!" laughed Leonard as he and Scotty strolled slowly along the street back to the academy.

"Aye, that's right. Even if the technical capabilities of the shuttles were somewhat illogical. A shuttle that can go that fast has yet to be invented."

Leonard grinned and leaned a little closer to Scotty.

"Oh, I'm pretty sure I know a budding engineer who can do that for sure."

Scotty laughed as his husband gave him a kiss on the cheek.

"Oh, sure, I could try. But Robbie will be responsible for building and designing shuttles and ships. He's the better brother at that. I'll definitely write to him and tell him it was a great recommendation."

Leonard nodded.

"His taste in movies is definitely great. We need to watch another movie with him and Leah as soon as possible."

The statement made Scotty sigh and he looked up at the sky. It was cloudy and not a star was visible.

"If only it were that easy... They're so far away from us."

Scotty felt Leonard squeeze his hand a little tighter.

"The next vacation isn't far away, leannan."

"Aye," the Scotsman nodded. "I ken, mo ghràdh, but I cannae wait to see Robbie and the others again."

Leonard smiled gently.

"Maybe we can just do a video chat on a weekend while we're streaming a movie. That's almost like we're all watching it together," he suggested and Scotty had to smile too.

"Aye. That sounds like a good plan. But tonight we're just going to enjoy our time alone together."

As Scotty had already indicated, the two cadets enjoyed their evening and night together to the full.

When the Scotsman woke up the next morning, Leonard was already lying awake next to him, reading a book. As soon as the prince realized that his husband had also woken up, he smiled and put the book aside.

"Good morning, leannan."

Scotty smiled too and snuggled closer to Leonard.

"Madainn mhath, mo ghràdh. What a rare sight to see ye awake before me."

Leonard laughed.

"I don't know what's wrong with me either. The joy of our regained freedom seems to give me unknown strength and energy," he replied with a grin and Scotty chuckled.

"I like that."

"I just hope I'll get through this evening okay if I haven't slept enough. I'd hate to leave the party earlier than everyone else."

Once again, Scotty's stomach tightened a little at the thought of going to the club that evening. Leonard seemed to notice.

"Hey, what's going on? Is something bothering you?"

Scotty sighed heavily.

"I don't know, either. It's just... the last time we were at the club, that's... that's when the thing with Sural's brother happened. I... I'm afraid something will go wrong again."

Leonard ran his fingers through Scotty's hair reassuringly.

"Hey, it's going to be okay. I'll take care of you. Trust me. But... if you'd rather not go out, then–"

Scotty shook his head.

"Nae, nae. I want to go out. I want to enjoy our freedom. And I'm not going to let the bad memories ruin that."

Certainly not.

[thesconesyard]

reblog if you’re okay with people writing fanfics of your fanfics and/or fanfics inspired by your fanfics

[thesconesyard]

not being able to borrow an ebook because someone else has it on loan is stupid as hell. like babe this is Document. these are pixels.

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 461

McCoy

It took the alarm and Scotty pushing at his shoulder to wake McCoy the next morning. The prince slowly rolled up onto his side so he could see his husband’s face.

“Ye best get up Len, we’ve still got homework from last night before we get to class.” Scotty was trying to give him a stern look, but a twinkle in his eye gave him away.

Instead of moving away, McCoy snuggled in closer and stretched up to kiss Scotty.

“My plan was better than homework,” he said with a smirk.

“Not if we get bad grades,” Scotty attempted to scold him. McCoy cut him off with another kiss.

Scotty pulled away and laughed. “Get off ye mad man!” He shoved once again at McCoy’s shoulder. Reluctantly McCoy lifted his arm from Scotty’s torso.

“But it’s so long until we can be right here again,” McCoy pouted. “I have a lab today.”

“Ye’ll just have to be patient,” Scotty said, and placed a kiss on McCoy’s forehead before getting out of bed.

The others were sitting around the usual table when McCoy and Scotty finally got to the dining hall. McCoy couldn’t help a smile when Jaylah glanced over as they sat down. She and Aporal were next to each other, quite close. And no one appeared to be bothering them about it. Jim couldn’t seem to help himself grinning every time he looked towards them though.

“So Jaylah and Aporal huh?” Eugene asked as he and McCoy settled into a pair of seats for their lab that afternoon.

“Guess so,” McCoy said, hoping his answer wouldn’t give away that he and Scotty had known first.

“Good for them. I kind of thought she didn’t like him in the beginning,” Eugene chuckled. “Guess he’s proven to her he’s not so bad.”

“They seem to make each other happy.”

“Well Cora and I are happy for them,” Eugene said. “You ready for this?” He indicated the lab equipment in front of them.

“Mostly?” McCoy answered honestly. “Got kind of off track with studying last night.”

Eugene raised an eyebrow and began to grin. McCoy’s face began to warm.

“No, no!” He began. “We- my father called last night.”

“Oh.” Eugene looked almost disappointed. Perhaps he had wanted to tease McCoy.

McCoy smiled back. “He’s going to have the palace team head home this weekend.”

Eugene’s face lifted. “That’s good, right? Good reason to get distracted from studying. Well, I studied plenty, so I’ve got us covered.”

Part 462

Scotty

"Well, how does it feel to finally be free again?" There was a broad grin on Jim's face as he walked with Scotty and Leonard to the dining room for lunch.

Leonard sighed heavily and rolled his eyes.

"Oh, you wouldn't believe how good it feels. The first thing we're going to do tonight is go into town and eat at a nice restaurant."

Scotty smiled gently. Leonard had been making plans for the last three days for the first evening after their restriction to campus. He wanted to do as much as possible.

"Afterwards, we'll go for a walk on the beach and then we'll watch a movie at the cinema," the prince continued talking about his plans.

"Ooo, that sounds good. Do you want company?"

Scotty shook his head quickly at this question, a smirk on his face.

"Oh nae, Jimbo. This evening is just for Len and me." To further emphasize his point, the Scotsman hooked up with his husband.

Jim laughed.

"Alright, okay, I get it. Just the two of you," he returned, wiggling his eyebrows.

Scotty rolled his eyes. He knew what his friend was getting at.

"Indeed. Just us and a peaceful night out in town," Leonard agreed and leaned over to kiss his beloved.

"But you need to remember one thing." Jim raised an index finger. "I'm only going to let you get away with it this first night. Tomorrow night you're all going out to celebrate with us, all right?"

The smile that had been on Scotty's lips earlier faded a little at that thought. The last time they had been out partying had been what felt like an eternity ago. It had been the night he had seen Sural's brother in the club. That night had been the start of the whole nightmare, which was finally coming to an end.

Nevertheless, Scotty nodded.

"A-aye. That sounds like a good idea."

Jim patted him on the back and beamed.

"Great! I can hardly wait!"

It felt strange to leave the campus. Scotty and Leonard had only been on familiar ground for so long and it felt almost forbidden to step across the border.

Leonard, however, just seemed happy and relieved. He walked light-footedly along the street, a broad smile on his lips.

"I can already taste the great food. A whole month of Academy food... I finally need something sensible again," Leonard said, day-dreaming of whatever he wanted to eat.

Scotty just chuckled.

"Well, the dear prince is used to better things than canteen food," he returned teasingly.

Leonard grinned and assumed his royal posture.

"That's right. Only the best for me and my beloved husband."

"Well then... I'm really curious what restaurant ye chose, mo ghràdh."

A mysterious smile found its way to Leonard's lips.

"Wait and see, leannan. Wait and see."

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 459

McCoy

Everyone at the table was looking at Jaylah expectantly.

“And you will listen to all of what we want to say first,” Jaylah said, giving Jim an extra stare. Jim nodded quickly, and Jaylah seemed to be taking a steadying breath.

“We are together,” Aporal said. “We have been for a while.”

McCoy threw a look around the table. Jim was beginning to grin. Christine and Uhura were sharing a smile as if the news wasn’t anything they didn’t already know. Chekov’s eyes had widened slightly.

Jaylah lifted a hand to hold back any comments.

“We like our privacy. This is something new for both of us, and- and—” She looked to Aporal.

“And we are both still ourselves first, please.”

“Yes,” Jaylah agreed.

“Can we ask questions?” Sulu asked.

Jaylah and Aporal glanced at each other.

“Yes,” Jaylah said slowly. “But we may not want to answer.”

“We can respect that,” Spock nodded, and murmurs of agreement came from the assembled group.

“Thank you,” Jaylah said and a smile slowly spread on her face.

Everyone began to eat again, though conversation was slow to start up. When it finally did, McCoy couldn’t help hearing Scotty whisper to Jaylah that she’d done a good job.

“Was that your doing?” McCoy asked as they headed for their dorm after dinner.

“I may have put the lassie on the track, but that was all her and Aporal.”

“Well, I’m glad for them. And hopefully everyone will respect their wishes.”

“Aye, hopefully,” Scotty agreed.

“Though it is fun having a secret to keep.” McCoy grinned as he looked over at his husband.

“It can be,” Scotty laughed. “But it can be just as fun to share it.”

McCoy grabbed his PADD from his desk as they entered the room. He kicked his shoes off towards his side of the bed and sat down.

“Guess it’s time to just get this over with,” he said, picking up the device again.

“It’ll be fine love, ye know that,” Scotty said, sitting down next to him.

McCoy's stomach twisted while he waited for his father to answer on the other end. Scotty’s hand rubbed against his back and McCoy relaxed a tiny bit.

“Hello Leonard. Scotty.”

David smiled at them.

“Hello Father,” McCoy answered.

“How were classes today?”

McCoy took a breath as Scotty answered first. He knew his father could see his nerves and impatience.

“And you’ve both found advisors?” David asked.

McCoy focused again on the PADD as he nodded. “I asked my flight instructor. How did you know?”

“Admiral Winston and I had a nice long talk,” David said.

“Right.” McCoy’s face fell a bit.

“You boys got off rather easy I have to say,” David said.

“We know,” McCoy said, his face warming.

“You want to know why I wanted to talk to you,” David said a moment later.

McCoy nodded.

“The admiral informed me that her heightened security measures on campus will begin being lessened tomorrow. With the Romulan caught and no accomplices, she feels safe doing so.”

The prince’s stomach tightened with dread. The king did not sound as if he agreed.

“I will speak to Andre tomorrow,” David began, “and I expect to bring his team home this weekend.”

Part 460

Scotty

Scotty could feel Leonard tensing next to him, however, the prince quickly seemed to relax as soon as David mentioned his plans for the next day and the upcoming weekend.

"Seriously?" Leonard blinked in confusion. "I-I mean, that's great!" he quickly clarified when his words were met by David raising a questioning eyebrow.

Eventually, the king smiled and nodded.

"I knew that you would react like that, Leonard. I see that you want to return to your normal life as fast as possible."

"Of course! Living a normal life is my dream, after all."

David's gaze shifted from his son to his son-in-law.

"And you Scotty? How do you feel about that idea?"

Scotty knew why the man was asking him specifically. After all, the Scotsman had been the one who wanted Team Alpha around after he had been injured.

He nodded, smiling.

"I think it's a good idea, David. It seems that we are safe now and in order for things to return to regular life, it's important for the team to be called back home."

David smiled back at him.

"Very well. Then I will do as planned and talk to Andre. Now that we talked about that, I think I should let you boys get some rest and do your homework, shouldn't I?"

Leonard grinned with glee, obviously still very happy about the news.

"Sounds good. Say hello to everyone else from us. We will call you at the weekend. Bye."

David shook his head at his son's behavior, however, he still smiled softly.

"Goodbye, Leonard, Scotty."

Scotty waved his hand and before he knew it, Leonard had already ended the call and put the PADD aside. The prince grabbed his husband by his shirt, pulled him close and quickly pressed a kiss to his lips.

"Oh, this is great! First the news about Jaylah and Aporal and now this? I doubt that this day can get any better!" Leonard grinned widely and Scotty chuckled. He raised both eyebrows.

"Really, mo ghràdh?"

Leonard smirked. He leaned in for another kiss.

"Well, you're right, leannan. I do know ways to make it even better."

Kisses were followed by more kisses as Leonard gently pushed Scotty into an even more comfortable position and started to undress the Scotsman.

"Didn't yer father say that we are supposed to do our homework?" Scotty whispered in between their lips touching and Leonard just chuckled.

"Well, he also said something about getting some rest, didn't he?"

Scotty grinned back at the prince. He really doubted that what Leonard had on his mind would allow them to rest, but he wouldn't stop his love from celebrating the good news either.

It had been a great day. And it would be a great night too.

[thesconesyard]

Tell me something good that happened to you in your day

I just can’t with the news headlines today and I’m verging on breaking down a bit, so let’s hear some good things please

I’ll start with a good thing:

Fields and soccer were open today and I made a delightful flower crown out of dandelions

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 457

McCoy

“I’m not wrong,” Jim said to McCoy. Before he could reply Jim had turned to look at Jaylah getting ready to sit. “He thinks I’m wrong about you and Aporal being together.”

Jaylah stopped her movements as her face flushed with color.

“Jim!” McCoy and Spock hissed at the same time.

“That is none of your business James T!” Jaylah said in a choked but fierce voice. She straightened up and without another word took her tray and headed for a table on the far side of the hall.

“Aye, she’s right lad,” Scotty said quietly.

Uhura glared once at Jim, then took her tray and headed off after Jaylah.

“It’s not a bad thing if they are!” Jim protested. “I already said it’s cool!”

“That’s not the point,” Spock said.

“Even if they were together,” McCoy said carefully, “it’s their choice when and whether they want others to know.”

“Ye’d think ye’d have learned that by example,” Scotty said, pointedly looking at McCoy. “From us and from Robbie.”

Jim scrunched his voice into an angry frown.

“What’s going on here?”

The four boys looked up to see Sulu getting ready to sit by Spock.

“Don’t ask,” Scotty muttered.

“Fine,” Jim said. “I still think they’re together, and I think they should just tell us, but I’ll apologize to her.” He made to stand up from the table.

Sulu threw a questioning look at McCoy, but the prince shook his head slightly.

“Not now Jim, she’ll be too fiery still,” Scotty pointed out. “Wait until lunch at least.”

Jim settled back down, frown dropping from his face. “They should know we’d be happy for them.”

“You can’t captain your friend’s privacy,” Sulu said. “Show them you respect their boundaries and maybe they’ll be comfortable to tell us. Or not.” He shrugged.

“Gloom and doom over here huh?” Christine set her tray noisily down next to McCoy.

“You don’t want to know,” McCoy said under his breath.

“That was awkward,” McCoy said as he and Scotty left the dining hall heading for their first classes. Scotty let out a loud sigh.

“I’ve got class with her and Keenser before lunch, I’ll see what I can do to help.”

“I guess we lucked out being more secretive,” McCoy tried to joke.

“We had Christine to confuse things,” Scotty smiled.

A chirp interrupted them. Both reached for their comms.

“It’s me,” McCoy said. He quickly read a message. “Father wants to talk this evening when I have time.” He lowered his head as he slid the device back in his pocket.

“It’ll be fine love,” Scotty soothed. “Ye know he doesn’t hold yer last talk against ye.”

“I know,” McCoy nodded. He glanced over his shoulder at the two palace security guards following them. “Maybe it’ll be about Team Alpha,” he said quietly. “Maybe Admiral Winston spoke with him and told him when she was going to drop the extra campus security.”

“That’s a thought mo ghràdh, that’s probably what he wants to talk with ye about.”

“Maybe. I’ll hope so.”

Part 458

Scotty

"Ye alright there, lassie?" Scotty asked as he took the free seat next to Jaylah's in class. The alien girl just huffed, arms crossed in front of her chest. It was quite obvious that she was still slightly annoyed by a certain captain to be.

"Aye, I ken. He can be a very stupid lad," Scotty agreed with a soft, sympathetic smile. He placed a hand on Jaylah's shoulder. "However, I honestly think that he's just excited and happy for ye."

His female friend sent him a glare, but her yellow eyes softened slightly as soon as they met the Scotsman's. She let out a sigh.

"I did not want for any of them to know, because I am not sure how Aporal will feel about it. He is a very private person and after everything he went through with his first girlfriend, he is even more careful about relationships," Jaylah slowly and quietly started to explain and Scotty nodded.

"I see. Would... ye like our friends to know? I mean... if it wasn't about how Aporal feels."

Jaylah lowered her eyes and her cheeks blushed softly. She shrugged her shoulders.

"I do not know for sure, Montgomery Scotty. I like Aporal very much and I know that there are many couples in our group of friends, but... he is the first boy I love and I like that we are taking things slowly. When the others know about us, I fear that they will tease us or ask uncomfortable questions or ask us to do couples stuff with them."

"Oh Jaylah." Scotty gently squeezed the girl's shoulder. "I'm sure that if ye talk about what ye want, or don't want, every single one of our friends will understand."

Jaylah looked back up at him.

"Even James T.?"

Scotty chuckled softly, before he nodded.

"Even him. And if he dares to do or say anything ye don't want, I'm quite sure Spock will put him in his place. So will every single one of us."

Jaylah chewed her lower lip thoughtfully and Scotty wrapped an arm around her shoulder.

"Everyone will be happy for the two of ye."

The alien girl sighed once more and leaned closer to Scotty.

"Maybe I should talk to Aporal about it all. Apparently we are not very good at hiding our feelings."

"Aye, talk to him. And then do whatever feels right for ye."

Aporal and Jaylah weren't at their table during lunch and Scotty assumed that they were having a long talk somewhere in private. He really hoped that everything would turn out just fine and in the evening, he knew that he had been right about that assumption.

A soft smile formed on Scotty's lips as he watched Aporal and Jaylah walking over to their table, hand in hand. And it didn't take very long for the others to notice it too.

The Scotsman heard Jim's gasp and his whispers about how he had told them all and when he looked over, he saw Spock jabbing his elbow into the blond's side.

No one said a thing when Jaylah and Aporal sat down next to Scotty and Leonard. It was quite an awkward situation, but eventually Jaylah started to talk.

"So, uhm, Aporal and I have an announcement to make."

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 455

McCoy

McCoy decided to skip lunch and go see Lt. Flores. The hall holding the flight simulators and his office was nearly back to normal after the fire the previous semester.

He knocked twice and waited. He suddenly realized that maybe the man was out having his own lunch, but his thoughts were interrupted by Flores finally calling for him to come in.

“Hello Leonard.” Flores was sitting behind his desk, a partially eaten sandwich in front of him.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I’m intruding on your lunch,” McCoy said, looking over nervously.

“It’s fine Cadet, have a seat.” Flores waved a hand at the chairs in front of his desk. “What can I do for you?”

McCoy drew in a breath and settled himself in a chair.

“Admiral Winston wants Scotty and I to find academic advisors, in hopes of keeping us out of further trouble, and I was hoping you would be mine sir.”

Flores looked at McCoy for a moment, then gave a snort of laughter.

“You do get right to the point Leonard,” he smiled. “I assume this has to do with the rumors I heard over the weekend?”

McCoy’s face flushed, but he continued to look at the lieutenant evenly. “Yes sir.”

“I’ll be much less tolerant of you not following orders than the admiral, if I’m your advisor,” Flores said.

Internally McCoy flinched. “I understand sir.”

Flores frowned slightly. “What division are you planning on joining?”

“Medical.”

Flores lifted an eyebrow. “I won’t be able to help you much there…”

“But you can help me with everything else,” McCoy countered.

“True,” Flores mused. “And I suppose if necessary, after you finish your basics and become focused in medicine you could find someone else over there. I’m guessing getting an advisor is part of your punishment from Winston?”

McCoy nodded.

Flores was quiet for a few moments, and McCoy studied the man as he thought. The lieutenant had been nothing but kind to him so far during his flight class struggles, and had been quite torn at the fact the fire in the very building they were in had been started by one of his students. A student he had had to fail. Flores had told McCoy early on how much he hated to have to do that, that he would rather help a cadet.

“If you’re sure Leonard, then yes,” Flores finally said.

“I’m sure sir,” McCoy answered with a tight smile.

“I’ll have high expectations,” Flores warned.

“I’ll do my best to meet them,” McCoy replied.

Flores smiled. “Have you had lunch?”

“No sir, I came here first from class.”

Flores stood up. McCoy looked at him questioningly.

“Come on Leonard. We’ll get you something from the replicator down the hall, then you can come back and tell me all about what happened this weekend.”

McCoy was first back to their room after classes finished that afternoon. He settled down at his desk after tossing his uniform jacket on the bed. He typed a quick message to Admiral Winston letting her know who he had chosen for an advisor, then began to work on homework.

“Hello love,” Scotty greeted him as he came in a bit later. “Missed ye at lunch.”

McCoy looked up from his books.

“I went to see Flores, and ended up eating with him,” McCoy explained.

“I ken,” Scotty grinned as he leaned down to kiss McCoy. “Andre asked Averie.”

McCoy rolled his eyes. “Hopefully Father will call them back soon.”

Part 456

Scotty

Dinner was pretty relaxed. The friends talked about the day and after dinner Scotty and Leonard followed Aporal.

"Has Admiral Winston spoken to you yet and told you your punishment?" Leonard asked with interest.

"I mean... Actually, it's punishment enough that yer projects have been confiscated," Scotty added. He really didn't think it was fair. Aporal had shown great courage and intelligence.

"You mean the thing with the academic advisor? Yes, I had to find someone too," the Andorian replied.

Scotty and Leonard exchanged a brief glance.

"And what about the ban on leaving the campus for a month?" the prince finally asked and Aporal shook his head.

"Nope, nothing like that. I can go wherever I want."

"What, but... that's not fair! We're being restricted in our freedom and you're not?" Leonard seemed almost outraged by this answer.

"Who knows? Maybe they still want to keep an eye on you to protect you. After all, you're not just any normal cadets," said Aporal, shrugging his shoulders.

"I really hope you're wrong about that. I'm so sick of this special treatment! Why can't we be treated the same way as everyone else?" Leonard got angry and Scotty put a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

"Mo ghràdh, it's certainly not like that. Maybe... maybe they just didn't give Aporal this punishment because everyone knows that he spends most of his time on campus anyway and never leaves."

That made Aporal grin and he laughed.

"Scottish boy might have a point there. Not being allowed to leave campus wouldn't be a real punishment for me."

Leonard sighed heavily.

"Well, if you say so... In any case, I just hope this month is over quickly."

Scotty couldn't argue with that.

"Aye, me too."

The next morning, Scotty and Leonard were the first at the breakfast table, but they were quickly joined by Jim and Spock.

"I'm telling you, there's something going on between those two. I've seen it clearly," Jim was just saying to his boyfriend as the two took their seats.

"Jim, it is none of our business," Spock replied calmly and collectedly, but anyone who knew him for any length of time could see that he seemed slightly annoyed.

"Who are you talking about?" Leonard asked and Jim rolled his eyes.

"Isn't that obvious? We're talking about Jaylah and Aporal! I'm a thousand percent sure they're a couple!"

Scotty felt unease spreading through him. It was so typical of Jim to poke his nose into such matters and he would definitely talk to all their friends about it. Before Scotty or Leonard could say anything, however, Spock was already speaking.

"Why do you care so much, ashayam?"

"Well, because it would be pretty cool! I mean... Another couple in the clique? That would be great! I don't know why they're making such a secret of it."

The others present just sighed.

"Maybe you're just wrong, Jim," said Leonard and Scotty admired how calm his husband said it. After all, they both knew the truth.

Before Jim could say anything, Jaylah and Uhura came to the table.

"What is James T. wrong about?"

[thesconesyard]

The satnav said “welcome to the United States” as we got to the border this afternoon and I quietly boo’ed in the car 🫤 can’t I please just stay in Victoria? I know how to speak Canadian don’t worry

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 453

McCoy

“Good morning cadets.”

Admiral Winston stood up behind her desk as McCoy and Scotty entered her office.

“Good morning,” they replied as one.

“Please sit.”

The admiral sat down again as the boys did.

“I have said I would keep you informed,” the admiral began. “So far we have not had any luck getting information from the Romulan. He has been healed from his injuries, but refuses to speak. We have thoroughly searched the warehouse he led you too—” She seemed to frown at the reminder of what the boys had done. “—and from the traces and few things he left behind, we have determined that he was working alone.”

McCoy let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding and heard a similar noise come from Scotty.

“So it’s over?” Scotty asked.

“It would appear so,” Admiral Winston nodded.

Scotty’s fingers found McCoy’s and squeezed.

“So we can go back to living like normal,” McCoy smiled.

“Not exactly.”

McCoy’s smile turned into a frown and he glanced at Scotty.

“What do ye mean ma’am?”

“There is still the matter of you two and Cadet Tallister taking matters into your own hands and not informing a senior officer.”

McCoy’s heart sank. They should have realized a punishment was still coming. He sighed.

“What’s our punishment?” he asked in a resigned voice.

“Two things,” Winston said. “First, you are restricted to campus only for the next month. You will be asked randomly to check in and prove your whereabouts.”

McCoy held back another sigh. Campus was better than being tossed in the brig or kicked out completely.

“Yes ma’am,” he answered.

“And second, though we usually don’t push for it until your second year, you are to find yourself an academic advisor. Some are finding your actions too independent for future officers, an advisor will hopefully help you settle into being better prepared as officers.”

McCoy shared a look with Scotty. Limited to campus and finding an advisor? That was their punishment?

“Aye ma’am, we can do that,” Scotty said, looking back at the admiral.

“Good. I expect to hear whom you have chosen by tomorrow evening. I would like to prepare them with a bit of knowledge about your recklessness.” A faint smile seemed to appear on the admiral’s face, so quickly McCoy wasn’t sure if he had seen it or not.

“At this point we will keep up heightened security until at least midweek, and if we find out anything else that could be important to you two, I will let you know.”

“Thank you ma’am,” McCoy said, echoed a second later by Scotty.

“Another month stuck on campus,” McCoy groaned as they walked outside. They had been silent as they had left the building, but now McCoy felt safe to say something.

“It could have been worse,” Scotty said softly. Anthony was trailing behind them as they walked.

“Yeah, it could have,” McCoy agreed. “Do you know who you want as an academic advisor?”

Scotty shrugged. “Maybe? What about you?”

“I think so. Guess I’ll have to go ask him tomorrow.”

“Who?”

“Flores,” McCoy replied. “I guess it shouldn’t matter if he’s not in medical. Maybe he can let me know.”

“Aye, he’d be good for ye.”

Part 454

Scotty

On the next morning Madison seemed to be almost back to his old self. He still allowed for Leonard and Scotty to sit next to each other, however, the glares he sent them from time to time made it very clear that he had an eye on every wrong move they made. Scotty could only imagine how happy the man must have been to hear about the reckless behavior of the boys. And he didn’t even want to get started on Kinnear. Surely the men were happy about every faux pas Scotty and Leonard could make.

“I think Madison knows about what happened,” the Scotsman whispered quietly to his husband when they left for their next classes. Leonard just rolled his eyes.

“You don’t say.” He groaned. “Ugh, I’m sure him and a certain Admiral had a party when they heard about it.”

Scotty couldn’t help a soft chuckle escaping his mouth at the thought of that image.

“I suppose we should try our best to stay out of trouble from now on. Who knows what our next punishment will be? We were quite lucky this time.”

Scotty still couldn’t believe that they had gotten off so easily. He had expected much worse to come.

“Yeah, staying out of trouble sounds good. Maybe Lt. Flores can help me with it,” Leonard replied with a soft sigh.

“When are ye gonna ask him?”

The prince shrugged his shoulders.

“Not sure. I was thinking after lunch maybe.”

Scotty nodded understandingly.

“Sounds good. Do ye want me to come with ye?”

Leonard shook his head and sent his beloved a smile.

“No, no. I’m good, thanks, leannan. Have you decided on an advisor?”

Scotty nodded. He had thought about the first ideas that had come to his mind the whole morning and was finally quite certain on who he wanted.

“Aye. Though I’m not sure if it would be more polite to ask her first? I mean… ye are asking Lt. Flores because he’s not part of medical division – unlike my idea who is in engineering –, but I think it’s better to talk to any officer before letting the Admiral know,” Scotty mused.

Leonard smiled and squeezed the Scotsman’s hand.

“Do whatever feels right for you, darling. Though I’m sure that every engineer will be glad to be the instructor of a great mind like you.”

A soft blush crept onto Scotty’s cheeks and he stared at the floor.

“Oh Len.”

That caused a grin to flit across Leonard’s face and he pressed a kiss to Scotty’s cheek.

“I gotta hurry now. See ya at lunch, leannan.”

They kissed each other goodbye and then parted ways.

“Lt. Flemming? Can I talk to ye for a second?”

Scotty could see surprise on the young woman’s face as she looked up from her PADD. Lt. Flemming was a gorgeous red-haired woman with gentle green eyes. She taught Scotty and the other future engineers about warp core technology.

“Oh, sure, Cadet. What can I help you with? Certainly you don’t have any questions on the homework? After seeing how good you scored at the last test, it should be easy for you, right?”

Scotty smiled and shook his head.

“Nae, it’s not about homework, ma’am. Ye see, I have to tell Admiral Winston who I want as an academic advisor and… I was thinking that I would like ye to be it.”

Flemming blinked a few times.

“Me? But… I only started to work as an instructor a year ago. I’ve never been anyone’s academic advisor before. Are you sure that you don’t want someone with more experience at the job?”

Once again Scotty shook his head.

“Nae, Lieutenant. I admire yer work and yer way of teaching. Ye are someone I really look up to. Therefore I think ye will do great at that job.”

Flemming just stared at him for a moment.

“Only… if ye are fine with it, of course,” the Scotsman carefully added and a wave of relief washed over him when his counterpart smiled eventually.

“O-okay. I accept. Tell the Admiral my name. We’ll see if she’s okay with it too. Thank you for your trust in me, Cadet Scott-McCoy.”

Scotty smiled back.

“Thank ye, ma’am.”

[thesconesyard]

Five minutes and we’re heading out on spring break vacation

Twenty minutes and we’ll be in another country for a week, and that thought feels so fucking good

Goodbye American clusterfuck (for a week)

(Don’t worry, I’ll still be around here 😁)

[thesconesyard]

Wrote 188 words today. Not brilliant, not terrible—just filler, standing there like “We may be useless, but we got you to the end of the page.”

And you know what? That’s 188 more than I had yesterday. Progress is progress, even if it’s just literary bubble wrap.

Tomorrow? Who knows. But today, I wrote. And that’s enough.

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 451

McCoy

“Oh ye lads.” Francine shook her head as McCoy and Scotty finished telling her what had happened that afternoon. “Oh ye could have been so hurt again.” She wiped away a tear on her cheek.

“And Jaylah is really fine?”

“Aye Mum. Last we heard they were finishing up healing Aporal’s hand and heading home.”

“We won’t put ourselves in danger like that again,” McCoy said. After the chat with David, and feeling ashamed at the way he had spoken to his father, he had already decided that anything else that ever happened to them, they would go for help first.

Scotty squeezed his hand, and McCoy smiled at him.

“Give Jaylah my best when ye see her. And Aporal too,” Francine said.

A few minutes later Scotty set aside the PADD.

“I suppose we should get heading over for dinner,” he said slowly.

“I have to do something first,” McCoy replied. His chin dropped towards his chest as he got up from where they were lounging on the bed. He walked over to the door as Scotty made a questioning noise behind him.

McCoy leaned out as the door opened.

“Andre?”

“Yes sir?” From near the lifts, the security chief stood up. He began to move towards McCoy, then entered the dorm room as McCoy gestured for him to enter.

“I- I want to apologize,” McCoy got out as the door closed behind Andre. “I know what we did was reckless, and we did save our friend, but it was reckless nonetheless. And I’m sorry we snuck out on you.”

“I’m impressed that you did, though maybe a little less because you used a transporter.” A faint smile began on Andre’s face. “I understand you were worried for your friend, but I do hope in the future you will remember to not run in head first without thinking.”

“I know. Trust me, we’ve heard that enough this afternoon.” McCoy gave Andre a chagrined look.

“We care about you sir,” Andre said quietly.

McCoy nodded.

“And I accept your apology.” The security guard smiled at both boys. “Were you wanting to leave for dinner soon?”

“Aye,” Scotty said, standing up.

“Have you heard from your friends?” Andre asked as he led the way out the door.

“Yes, hopefully they’ll be at dinner.”

Sulu and Chekov were at the table when McCoy and Scotty sat down. The prince looked across at Sulu.

“Well, what are they saying?”

McCoy knew Sulu usually knew what the latest gossip on campus was.

“Saying? About what?” Sulu asked, lifting an eyebrow.

“Has it not got out?” Scotty asked in surprise.

“What?” Chekov asked.

“The Romulan?” McCoy asked, looking in confusion at the two others. “We, uhh, caught him.”

“You what?” Chekov exclaimed.

Two comms chirped before McCoy or Scotty could answer.

“The admiral wants to see us tomorrow morning,” Scotty read, having reached his comm first.

Part 452

Scotty

"Oh man! You guys are just crazy! Catching a criminal without us? I can't believe it!" Jim looked from one to the other. There seemed to be the hint of a grin on his face.

The friends had all quickly gathered at their typical table and the number one topic of conversation was what had happened that day.

"Stop talking like you wish you'd been there, Jim!" moaned Uhura and Christine nodded in agreement.

"Nyota's right. That was a really dangerous move." She looked at Jaylah and Aporal. "Are you really all right again?"

"Yes. We've had medical attention and we will definitely be fully fit again in the morning," Jaylah confirmed. She looked pretty exhausted, Scotty thought.

"I just can't believe this could have happened. If only you'd stayed with us or we'd gone with you to that tech store," Cora mumbled, looking pretty shaken up by the story.

Jaylah just shook her head.

"I am glad that only I was kidnapped. It would have been terrible if something had happened to you too."

"At least the whole thing is over now. The guy is behind bars and the danger is over," said Jim.

"Does that mean you're free to do what you want again?" asked Eugene, looking at Leonard and Scotty.

"Not yet. We have to wait for permission from Admiral Winston first," sighed Leonard. He would obviously have liked to get back to his normal routine straight away.

"But we have a talk with her tomorrow morning," Scotty added hopefully, as he squeezed his husband's hand. They could only hope for good news.

"I really hope you can move freely again from tomorrow." Jim crossed his fingers visibly and everyone else agreed.

"What do ye think Admiral Winston wants from us?" Scotty snuggled closer to Leonard when they lay in bed that evening.

The prince shrugged his shoulders.

"I don't know. I just hope she has good news."

"Aye, me too."

What they had been through couldn't have been in vain. They finally needed to be safe and free again. Without surveillance or worry.

"Do you really think Jaylah's all right?" Leonard asked after a moment of silence. Scotty sighed.

"I don't know. She looked pretty exhausted at dinner. I hope Aporal can comfort her and give her strength."

"And Jaylah to him."

Scotty smiled softly and nodded. He thought of how close the two of them had looked in the back of the ambulance.

"Aye. They're really good together, don't you think?"

"In any case, there's no longer any doubt that the two of them have feelings for each other."

"I'm glad they've found each other. It's good for both of them."

"Sure is."

They fell silent again. Until...

"Well, I suppose we should get some sleep now, mo ghràdh. After all, who knows what tomorrow will bring?"

Leonard sighed softly, then pressed a kiss to Scotty's lips.

"Good night."

"Oidhche mhath."

[thesconesyard]

worlds slowest fanfic author tries really really hard

[thesconesyard]

Hard topic below the break, feel free to scroll by

Watching my coworkers keep themselves from breaking down while they’re comforting our kids who are breaking down is so hard. Watching our kids break down is hard too. A local business was raided by ice yesterday and they took 37 people. It impacted our kids. We had another uncle taken and at least two of our families are considering going back to where they came here from. Families who have been here for years, whose kids I have known since kindergarten. Seeing a 4th grade boy sobbing in my coworker’s arms, I just, I’m gonna start crying too, he’s the sweetest kid. He shouldn’t have to be worried about this! He should be getting an education and worrying about homework and soccer! Instead he’s worrying about returning to a country he hasn’t been to since he was little and moving away from his friends. Because it’s safer to move back there than it is to worry about being abducted by ice and then who knows where they’d end up

The executive team from district office is coming up to our building tomorrow for a meeting about all this happening. When I say I feel extra on edge at recess lately, my head is on a swivel for any strange cars or people going by.

I don’t know what else to say, I just needed to vent that out, I’m just so angry and hurt for my work family

[thesconesyard]

In Our Favor

Part 449

McCoy

The prince tried his hardest to keep his face neutral as he looked at the PADD and into his father’s face. King David’s eyes had never looked so hard to McCoy before and he couldn’t help the small shiver down his spine.

“You know why I am calling,” David said in an even voice.

“Yes,” McCoy answered in his own even voice. He was glad no waver could be heard.

“What were you thinking?” David asked. His volume had gotten louder.

“We were thinking about saving our friend from being hurt or killed,” McCoy answered coolly. Warmth was climbing his face as anger spread in his chest.

“Of all the foolish—”

“Why is it foolish?” McCoy raised his voice. “We saved Jaylah. We caught the Romulan. We can sleep easy again. How is it any more foolish than our friends risking their lives to save us? And in more dangerous conditions? People are allowed to be foolish and helpful as long as it isn’t me?”

“Leonard—”

“Mo ghràdh…” Scotty put a tentative hand on McCoy’s arm.

“No. I am an adult, I am a member of Starfleet. If I’m going to be in trouble it’s going to be because I didn’t tell my commanding officer!” McCoy continued, his voice getting louder. Even Scotty’s usual soothing touch did nothing to stop his anger.

“Why can’t I just live my life!?” McCoy’s whole body was tense as he shouted the last words.

“Leonard,” David said again in a quieter voice.

McCoy drew in a deep breath.

“You don’t know what it’s like to finally get to do what I want, on my own, without being looked out for or followed all the time,” he said in a calmer voice. “Any tiny thing happens and you want me surrounded again.” He sighed. His anger had run its course and now regret was beginning to fill his chest as he tried to look his father in the eye through the screen.

“You’re right son, I don’t know,” David conceded. “You’re the first in this family to ever not follow royal guidelines. And all I want is what every other father in the galaxy- in history- has wanted: to know my child is safe.”

“Father—” shame was warming McCoy's face. Quietly Scotty slipped an arm around his shoulders.

On the PADD David held up a hand.

“You’ve said it and I haven’t listened to you well enough in the past. I am proud that you saved your friend. But I’m never going to stop worrying about you Leonard. And as your father, yes, I think what you did was foolish. I hope you will learn to stop and think before racing into things.”

“There wasn’t time—”

“There is always time to think. You had time to come up with your plan.”

“In fairness sir, me and Aporal came up with the plan,” Scotty said. McCoy heard the nervousness in his husband’s voice.

“But I went along with it and didn’t protest,” McCoy said, hanging his head.

“As soon as your admiral has her full report…” David seemed to hesitate. McCoy looked back up at the screen. “As soon as they have interrogated the Romulan and if they decide there is no further threat, I will bring home Andre and his team.”

“Thank you Father,” McCoy replied in a small voice.

“However, you will apologize to him first,” David added.

“I will.”

“He cares about you as well.”

“I know. He let us know that through his angry glares.” McCoy managed a weak smile.

“Leonard, I’m glad you’re safe. And you Scotty. You’re all healed?”

Scotty nodded. “Aye.”

“Let’s hope he was working alone then,” David said. “Boys, I love you both. We’ll talk again soon.”

“Love you too,” McCoy said. David smiled, then ended the call. The prince set the PADD down, then turned back to bury his face against Scotty.

“I’m an idiot,” came his muffled voice.

Part 450

Scotty

Scotty could easily tell that the whole thing had taken quite its toll on Leonard. And he felt really sorry for his husband. After all, Leonard was right. He was finally able to live a relatively normal life, but his family was still treating him like the heir to the throne sometimes.

However, Scotty could also see David's reasoning. Parents were always concerned about their children; it was only natural. Scotty didn't even want to think about when Francine and Granddad would call.

"Nae, ye aren't, mo ghràdh. Ye just did what we thought was right," Scotty mumbled, gently running his fingers through Leonard's hair. The prince sighed.

"I'm not talking about saving Jaylah. I know that we did the right thing by helping her, no matter how dangerous everything was. No... I'm an idiot because of the way I talked to my father. I want to be an adult, but sometimes I can be a real brat."

Scotty couldn't help the soft chuckle that escaped his mouth. He pulled Leonard a bit closer to himself.

"Aren't we all sometimes? It's just natural. To behave immature and cocky from time to time. Especially when it's an emotional talk ye're having."

Leonard snuggled his head into Scotty's chest.

"I just wish it wouldn't have to be that way."

"Everything will be fine, Len. Ye saw the look on yer father's face when he ended the call. He forgives ye. Ye're both good."

Scotty could feel Leonard nodding and he knew that he didn't need to say anything else. So they stayed silent, waiting for more calls to follow.

The next call that came was from Jaylah. She told them that Aporal's hand was being taken care of and that they would return to the academy very soon. Admiral Winston was just going to ask them her questions first.

Scotty offered the two of them to come by, but Jaylah said that they would rather spend some time alone. They would see the others at dinner.

About half an hour later, Scotty's PADD rang.

"It's my mum," the Scotsman said, looking at the caller ID. He really wasn't sure if he wanted to answer it, but he knew that Francine would worry even more if he didn't.

Leonard gave him a nod and the two of them sat up straight.

"Hello, a mhàthair."

"Hey Francine."

Francine's eyes were wide as she looked from one boy to the other. It was quite obvious how scared she was.

"Oh lads! Are ye okay? I just received a message from Eleanor. She told me that something has happened and that I should better call ye."

Scotty exchanged a quick glance with Leonard and then they both nodded.

"We're fine, Francine. But... Mother is right. Something happened," Leonard started to explain.

"We caught the Romulan," Scotty added and Francine's eyes widened even more. All color left her face.

"Ye what?!"

"Don't worry, a mhàthair. We weren't hurt. We are fine. Really," Scotty reassured his mother, but that didn't seem to help calm her down.

"What do ye mean, ye caught him? How? When?"

Some Gaelic rambling followed and Scotty was just about to say something, but Leonard beat him to it.

"Please calm down, Francine. We will tell you everything. Just... try to relax."