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GOD I KNOW RIGHT? I did it! I finally did it!
Title: Empire State of Mind
Series: Star Trek XI fusion with the Gossip Girl television series
Rating: Pg-13ish
Pairings: Kirk/McCoy and squint and you'll see Spock/Uhura, Chapel/Sulu, and Chekov/Uhura. There are also mentions of past Kirk/Sulu, Uhura/Sulu, Pike/Winona, and one-sided McCoy/Scotty...going forward it might be easier for me to list the pairings that aren't in the chapter. Yikes.
Summary: It's Thursday on the Upper East Side, which unfortunately brings trouble.
Notes: Ugh, it's been forever, and I am so sorry, but the original Gossip Girl AU is back and better than ever!
As always, the food Jim consumes at the Palace is taken directly off their menu. Likewise, the food Scotty and Bones eat at Veselka is the same. (Okay, the banana milkshakes aren't on the menu, but they're kind of a secret thing if you know the place. Highly recommended.) I don't get into detail about it, but since I do mention it, The Modern's Chef's Tasting menu is found here.
"Vite, vite" is French for "hurry the fuck up." :D
Yes, it's Kolinhar instead of Victrola. What of it?
Yes, I also made Scotty a vegetarian hipster. I regret nothing.
Links to previous chapters:
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
This chapter has been posted in two parts due to length. Stupid word limit. *shakes fist*
“Jim,” Winona Kirk called through the suite she shared with her youngest son. “Breakfast is on the table. Your omelet’s getting cold.”
Something unintelligible was called through the door.
“What?” Winona took this opportunity to enter the room, looking imperious. Or at least, she looked as imperious as one can look in a dressing gown and robe.
He rolled his eyes as he straightened his tie. “I said in a minute,” he grumbled. Jim ran his fingers through his hair. “What’s the big deal?”
“I ordered you breakfast, I thought we could eat together before you head off to school,” she said as she came up behind him. She placed a hand on his shoulder; he had grown in the last year and was now quite a bit taller than her. Her baby was growing up so fast. “I got you the lobster omelet, I know how much you love seafood.” Winona smiled. “Well, food in general, really.”
Jim met her eyes in the reflection of the mirror. “Why’s it so important that we have breakfast together?”
“Why do you always assume that me wanting to spend time with you comes with a hidden agenda?” she retorted and he rolled his eyes.
“Because it does,” he said in a flat voice. “I mean, it means I’m in trouble or you’re getting married again. I haven’t done anything wrong since I’ve been back so that leaves you getting hitched.” Jim wriggled out from her grasp and made his way over to a box labeled Jim’s shoes. He began to root through it, presumably for a particular pair.
Winona huffed. “I’m not getting married, and you really should unpack. Like it or not, this is our home for the next six months while the penthouse is renovated. You should treat it as such. Now, come have breakfast, I want to hear about how school is going.”
Jim sighed. He had found one of his shoes, a Ferragamo loafer, and was rooting through the box for the match. “Just let me finish this, I’ll be right out.”
Winona waved even though he couldn’t really see it. “Fine, I’ll make your coffee the way you like it.” She stepped back into the common area of the room. “If you take too much longer you’ll be late.”
After a minute or two, Jim emerged with a pair of Ray Bans perched on top of his head, and the Ferragmos in place on his feet. He eyed the table somewhat warily. Wordlessly, he took the seat across from his mother.
True to her word, Winona had the lobster omelet waiting, plus fresh coffee and orange juice, a basket of croissants, and assorted berries.
“Dig in,” she said from over top The New York Times, although she was a bit late as Jim was already eating. “Although…I should apologize.”
Jim froze with a mouthful of omelet. “What?”
“I should apologize, for how little I’ve been around since you’ve been home.” She sat the newspaper down and looked at him through her reading glasses. “I mean, admittedly your return was on short notice, and it was hard for me to reschedule certain things…”
Jim rolled his eyes.
“…But I have time now. I know our first meeting since your return went poorly, and I also know you don’t enjoy the family therapy.”
“Understatements of the year,” he couldn’t help but say.
Winona gave him a pointed look. “I am trying, Jim. The least you could do is afford me the same courtesy.”
Swallowing a mouthful of omelet, Jim thought for a while. “Yeah, I guess I can do that.”
“Good. We can start tomorrow after school. I have meetings this evening, but tomorrow my schedule is clear. We can get Sam from the center, go to Park Avenue Autumn for dinner…”
“Um…” Jim shook his head. “I can’t tomorrow. I have plans.”
Winona took her glasses off to look at him more carefully. “Plans? With Nyota and Hikaru?”
Jim sighed; he looked hesitant, which meant that they were certainly not with Nyota or Hikaru. How odd. “No, plans with Bo…Leonard.”
His mother stared blankly at him. “I don’t know the name.”
“He’s not…he isn’t…I mean I go to school with him, he’s in my art class. But you wouldn’t know him. He’s not from my usual circle.”
Winona continued to look at her son with a blank expression. “I see. Well, I suppose it’s good of you to be making new friends. Although this is a bit sudden…”
“Well um. We’re not just…I mean, it’s a date.” Jim was suddenly very interested in his coffee. “We’re going on a date.”
“A…a date?” Now Winona looked confused.
He was still interested in his coffee, almost painfully so. “Yeah, we’re going to see a movie at the Sunshine, maybe grab something to eat after.” Jim finally looked up at her then, and he smiled crookedly. “Sorry, but I really can’t tomorrow. Maybe Saturday, or we could do a family brunch thing on Sunday.”
“Sunday is the S’chn T’gai foundation brunch,” she supplied almost automatically. “Which we are going to, you and I. I don’t think Sam is quite ready for a social function like that, but we need to attend.”
“Fair enough,” Jim said with a shrug. The brunch was an annual gathering, and the only reason why he missed it last year was because he was in Connecticut at the time. “Then let’s do the family thing Saturday, I won’t make any other plans I promise, but tomorrow…I can’t.”
Winona tilted her head to one side. “This Leonard…what do his parents do?”
“Why does that matter?” Jim said stiffly.
“It matters because I’ve never heard of him before, and you are being very insistent about these plans with him. I’m simply trying to figure out why.”
Jim took the last bite of his omelet and chewed it thoroughly. He swallowed. “His dad’s Doctor Pike, the head of Starfleet’s history department. Mom’s in Princeton doing research.” He took a swig of juice. “And I already told you, I’m insistent because these aren’t just any plans, we’re going on a date.” He got up from the table and went back into his room to get a jacket.
…Doctor Pike?
Winona only knew of one person with the surname Pike. But…it couldn’t be.
Could it?
“I see,” she finally said. “Well, I won’t stand in your way then. However, I do ask one thing.”
Jim groaned. “Yeah, okay. What?”
“He needs to pick you up here tomorrow so I can meet him.”
Once more, Jim emerged from his room, this time with a Burberry jacket and his sunglasses on his face. “Since when do you need to meet my dates?”
“Since when do you date at all?” she retorted. “This is the first time I can remember you simply going on a date with someone, Jim. Obviously this…Leonard is special to you, which means I need to meet him.”
Jim frowned. “Fine, whatever. I’ll let him know.” He shifted his schoolbag on his shoulder. “Can I go now?”
Wisely, Winona chose to ignore him. “Have a good day at school, darling.”
Jim half-heartedly smiled at her as he made his way out the door, leaving Winona alone. She went to her room and picked up her cellphone. She scrolled through the contacts in her Palm until she found Headmaster Barnett. She then called him. The phone rang twice.
This is Richard Barnett.
“Richard, it’s Winona Kirk,” she said with a smile she wasn’t sure she felt. “I need to see one of your instructors today. Can you give me the information for Doctor Pike’s planning period?”
-----
Pavel and Leonard made their way up the steps to Starfleet prep.
“Not waiting for Jim today?” Pavel asked. Leonard shook his head.
“No, I told him I’d just see him at lunch,” he answered. “We had a lot of fun last night though.”
“Yeah I could tell,” his little brother said in a smug tone. “You were actually smiling for once. It was pretty obvious, not to mention disturbing.”
“Shut up, I smile sometimes,” Len snapped. “I just don’t do it constantly because it lessens the impact.” He dug his phone out of his pocket to check the time; there was still fifteen minutes before class. Their dad had undoubtedly been here for an hour already. “Besides, it’s not like we’ve had a lot of reason for it the last few months.”
“Yeah, I guess,” Pavel conceded. “When do you think Mom’s going to come back anyway?”
Len hesitated, and as he did so, his phone beeped. He looked down at it, and sure enough the screen said he had a text message. He flipped it open to read it.
We need to talk.
He scowled before typing back a reply. Pretty sure you said everything that needs to be said.
“Who is that,” Pavel said as he peered over his shoulder.
“No one,” he said back. The phone beeped again. He opened it back up.
Don’t be a douche. You know I’m right.
Len made an annoyed sound and typed back If you’re trying to get me to want to talk to you, you’re going about it the wrong way.
Pavel stared at his brother. “Wow, okay. You went from zero to angry in like…ten seconds.”
There was another beep. He opened his phone back up.
Seriously, stop being such an asshole. I’m trying, aren’t I?
Making another annoyed sound, he replied with Yeah, you’re trying six weeks late.
A proverbial light bulb went off over Pavel’s head and his expression became sympathetic. “Oh. You’re fighting with Scotty.”
The phone beeped. Len looked at Pavel. “That obvious?”
“I haven’t seen you this angry since that day back in August,” Pavel said. “Although you never did tell Dad and me what happened.”
“None of your business,” Len said as he opened his phone.
What matters is that I’m trying at all. I’m tired of this cold war shit.
“Whatever,” Leonard said as he closed his phone back up. “I don’t have time for this.” He began to make his way into the school and to his locker.
“Is he trying to make up with you,” Pavel asked as he followed him.
“If he is, he shouldn’t quit his day job.” They reached his locker, and he angrily opened it. “I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Okay.” For once, Pavel dropped it. “I need to get my books. I’ll see you after school.” With that he made his way down the hall to his own locker. About halfway there, he turned and looked at his older brother. “You know, even though Yom Kippur already happened, it’s not too late to right some wrongs.”
Leonard scowled at him. Dropping it, yeah right. He should have known better. “You’re such a brat.”
“Don’t get mad just because I’m right,” Pavel said with a shrug. He turned the corner and made his way to his locker. Leonard looked down at his phone.
The crappy thing was that Pavel was right.
He sighed and opened it.
Fine. Whatever, we’ll talk.
He snapped it closed and put it in his coat pocket in his locker. He then grabbed his Latin book and made his way to his first class.
He didn’t notice that Hikaru Sulu was watching him the whole time.
-----
Christine Chapel sat on the steps of the Met, one level below her queen, Nyota Uhura. Gaila sat next to her, and the three of them ate their yogurt parfaits and surveyed the commoners below.
“I can’t believe you went out with Kevin Riley,” Christine said to Gaila as she ate a spoonful of vanilla yogurt and blueberries.
“It was a waste of time,” Gaila said breezily. “I mean, I’m totally not his type.” She paused to take a sip of her iced tea. “I mean, no girl is.”
Nyota raised an eyebrow. “So he’s…”
“As the day is long,” Gaila said with a shrug. “He has to be, all he did was kiss me on the cheek at the end of our date. No one goes on a date with this,” she said with a gesture at her figure, “and just kisses me on the cheek.”
Nyota rolled her eyes, and Christine made a low noise in her throat.
“Considering you’ve been with every guy at Starfleet and half of Unity, I can safely say that you’re probably right.”
Gaila threw a sugar packet at her. “I haven’t been with every guy at Starfleet, and ew, Unity. I’ve just been with like…ten guys. There’s way more than that here at Starfleet, although the freshmen can forget it.”
“Nice to see you have some standards,” Christine shot back. “Besides, I guess you’re right. You haven’t been with Jim Kirk.”
Gaila gave her a look. “Not for lack of trying, but no girl has boldly gone there. He is, like, super gay. Although, I did hear a rumor that he…”
This was when Nyota cleared her throat. “Ahem. We don’t mention the Wicked Bitch of the East. I’m pretty sure her name can summon her, and I’m not in the mood for a takedown today.”
Christine and Gaila looked at her curiously.
“You? Not in the mood?” Christine had a look on her face that was concerned. Inwardly, of course, she was shocked. Well, and smug. Maybe the path to Queen would be easier than expected. “The break up with Hikaru must be hitting you harder than we thought.”
“What?” Nyota ran her fingers through her hair, looking for non-existent split ends. Naturally, it was flawless, perfectly styled, not a curl or her headband out of place.
God, she was a bitch.
“Oh that. Well yes, that’s difficult, but I actually meant because I’m in a surprisingly good mood.” She shrugged. “No, Jim and I are hitting Bergdorf’s after school. It’s been too long since our last shopping trip. I still haven’t gotten a dress for my upcoming birthday party, after all, and his taste is flawless. He has just the right amount of avant-garde mixed with fondness for the classics.”
Now Gaila and Christine were outright staring at her.
“What?” she snapped.
“Didn’t you just…I mean…we saw what you did the other day, with the humiliation and the outing of secrets to that kid, whatever his name is.”
Nyota waved a hand. “Ancient history. Jim and I are back to where we belong.”
“Uh…huh,” Christine said in a low voice. On the one hand, she shouldn’t be surprised. This kind of thing was de rigeur for Jim and Nyota. On the other hand, it wasn’t like Nyota to forgive and forget so easily. It had barely been two days since she found out about the Sheppard wedding. That type of information should involve weeks of torture, not just hours.
Bitterly, Christine couldn’t help but think that if she were in Jim’s place Nyota would not be nearly as forgiving.
Speaking of Jim, he was walking up with plate of sushi and a drink with that guy from the other day. What was his name? McBain or something like that. Whatever. They looked like they were having a good time. The two boys looked for a place to sit, ostensibly alone together.
Aw, a lunch date. How quaint.
“Well, well, look what the cat dragged in,” Christine said as she went back to her yogurt. Nyota and Gaila followed her gaze to Jim and that boy.
Nyota lit up. “Oh there they are. I’ll be back in a moment, girls.” With that, she stood and glided over to the pair. Jim lit up at her approach while that guy looked confused and pissed off. They were just close enough that Christine could listen to them if she concentrated.
“Jim,” Nyota said with a warm smile.
“Nyota, hey,” he said. He reached out a hand and squeezed hers lightly. She grinned up at him before turning to what’s his name.
“I’m sorry, we got off on the wrong foot,” she said with an extension of her hand. “I’m Nyota Uhura. It’s so nice to meet you, Leonard McCoy.”
McCoy, that was his name. Not like it mattered, since Christine could practically count the minutes until Jim moved on from him to his next investment banker, polo player, Pamplonian bullfighter, or all of the above.
McCoy was just looking down at her hand with an annoyed expression. “Wish I could say the same.”
Christine raised both eyebrows. Well, look who decided to become a little interesting.
Nyota narrowed her eyes briefly before sticking her hand out more emphatically. The McCoy kid finally took the hint and barely shook it. She plastered a fake smile on her face.
“My friends call me Nyota,” she said. “Since you and Jim are getting to be close, I figure you should call me by my given name as well. I’m sure we’re going to be spending a lot of time together in the future.”
McCoy looked at Jim, who whispered something in his ear. He shrugged. “Yeah. Sure. Nyota it is. You can call me Leonard.”
Jim began to look pleased and a little relieved as Nyota smoothed a non-existent wrinkle out of her skirt. “Wonderful. How about lunch, the three of us, on Saturday?”
Jim shook his head. “I can’t, I’ve got family stuff. Winona made me clear off the whole day.”
“That’s a shame,” Nyota said with a sad face. “Well, Leonard, what about you and I get lunch together then? I’d love to get better acquainted.”
“Oh I don’t think that’s such a good…” McCoy began before Jim noticeably elbowed him in the side. “I mean…I guess I can do that. It’s just lunch right?”
Nyota laughed. “It is the most casual of meals, yes. Let’s do something easy, like the café at Bergdorf’s; it’ll be just a quick meal together as new friends. You’d like that, wouldn’t you?”
Christine knew a warning when she heard one, and that was most definitely a warning. Apparently, McCoy took it as one too because his stance lost some of its edge.
“Sure,” he said finally. “Sounds good. See you then.” He turned to Jim, and the two of them began to make their way back towards the school grounds. Nyota watched them go with a serious look on her face before turning back to her friends. She walked up the steps and took her place once more.
There was a long silence.
“What was that about?” Gaila finally asked as she adjusted the strap on one of her shoes.
“It’s called damage control,” Nyota said in a light tone. “Look it up.”
Christine was careful not to openly roll her eyes. “How can you do damage control when nothing’s happened yet? All they’ve done is eat lunch together and go to the Ocean Grill.”
“Exactly,” their Queen explained. “For some reason that only God could possibly know, Jim is serious about that nobody.” She dug back into her yogurt with a smile. “It’s hard to date above your station; I’m simply going to make sure he doesn’t make it even harder.”
Gaila smiled up at Nyota. “I knew you were up to something. You always think three steps ahead.”
“Right, which is why I’m the Queen, and you’re…where you are,” Nyota said with a shrug. “By the way, Gaila, are those new Louboutins?”
“They are,” Gaila squealed happily. “I just got them this weekend.”
“They’re lovely,” Nyota agreed. The two of them began to compare shoe-shopping notes, and Christine, who normally would have joined in, tuned them out, because the object of her affections began to walk by.
Hikaru Sulu was talking to Stonn and a few of the guys from the lacrosse team. He was laughing at something they were saying; his smile was bright and cheerful. He looked incredibly handsome, a fact that made Christine’s heart skip in her chest.
Sure, he and Nyota had only recently broken up. And sure, they had broken up because he cheated on her with her male best friend. But it wasn’t the first time a drunk guy had gone briefly gay for Jim…he just kind of had that affect on people.
It was obvious that Hikaru wasn’t gay.
So maybe…it was time to do something about her crush.
Except for the fact that as long as Nyota was Queen there was no way that she could make a move on him.
At least, she couldn’t until Nyota started dating someone else.
Wait a minute.
That was definitely something to look into, Christine thought as she finished her yogurt. Especially since if she got together with Hikaru, who was one of the most popular boys in school, she’d have the ability to dethrone Nyota.
Now to just figure out a prospect from the list of eligible bachelors.
-----
Spotted at the Met: I spy a peace summit between Queen N and Jim’s new boy. Are these two fast friends or is Nyota in the market for a new frenemy?
Surprisingly, all seems well between she and Jim. I know I at least expected that war to last a little longer. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see what trouble these two besties get up to together instead.
I’ll be watching when she and McCoy go to lunch, just to make sure there’s no catfight over canapés and cocktails. If there is, you’ll be the first to know.
You know you love me, Gossip Girl.
-----
Christopher Pike gathered the blue books from his last class on his desk. He quickly alphabetized them by last name and put them into his briefcase. He knew his students all complained about the fact that his exams were all essays and short answer, but it was better than simple multiple choice. History was more than dates, it was details, and he made sure his kids knew those details.
He had just locked his briefcase when a knock sounded on his door.
“Yes, just a…” He trailed off as he saw the woman standing before him.
“I should have known,” Winona Kirk said in reply.
“Winona,” Chris said, and he was unable to keep the shock out of his voice. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t expecting to see you. Ever again, I mean, not just today.”
“Why is my son dating yours?”
“They’re dating?” Chris ran his fingers through his hair. “Leonard mentioned they were hanging out, but he never said they were dating.”
Winona smiled, although it was unkind. “I know more about Jim’s life than another parent knows about his child. This is a momentous occasion. And yes, they are dating. Leonard is apparently taking Jim to the movies tomorrow. There was a mention of dinner after.” She moved so that she was standing right in front of him. “If my memory serves, that’s your idea of a night out.”
“Well, we can’t all whisk someone away to Chamonix in a G6 for the weekend,” he shot back. “That’s how George proposed, isn’t it?”
“You’re doing this to get to me. You’re using my son and your own to weasel your way back into my life.”
“I didn’t realize Jim Kirk is your son.”
Winona stared at him.
“Okay, I absolutely realized that Jim is your son,” he admitted with a shrug. “It’s a small island. But, Winona, who Leonard decides he wants to be with is up to him. I’ll tell you that I’m not exactly thrilled about it either. I know all the faculty here, I know what your kid was like before he left.” He smiled at her. “Came to class drunk more than once, back talked the teachers, showed up late all the time. That’s ignoring the rumored drug habit.” Christopher started a slow clap. “Kudos on the child-rearing skills. Obviously money can’t buy everything.”
“Low blow,” Winona said in a smooth voice edged with steel.
“It’s not if it’s the truth,” he explained with a wave of his hand.
“May I speak plainly?”
Christopher gave her a bewildered expression. “Because what you’ve been doing hasn’t been blunt and straight-forward?”
Winona smiled again. “Jim’s record at Thomas More was exemplary. He stayed in, was quiet, kept to himself, and pulled his grades up. I would like to see these trends continue.”
“Well, sure, but I’m not understanding what that has to do with my son.”
“The last thing he needs is some boy swooping in and distracting him from his new lifestyle.”
Christopher leaned against his desk as he folded his arms across his desk. “No offense, but a boy like Len is exactly the kind of boy Jim should be with. Len is second in their class, responsible, doesn’t lie, doesn’t drink or do drugs.” He grinned at her. “Why, he sounds a lot like your new Jim.”
Winona frowned. “I must not be clear. I want your son to stay away from Jim.”
“I’m also not being clear, because there’s no way I’m telling him they can’t date.” Chris frowned at her. “They’re old enough that they can make their own decisions. They like each other, I’m assuming they make each other happy from the lightness Len had when he came home last night. If it becomes a problem, I’ll deal with it. Right now, it’s not a problem.” He went back behind his desk and took a seat. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have actual work to do.”
Taking that for the dismissal it was, Winona began to walk out of the room. “Just stay out of my life, Chris.” He gave her a sarcastic wave as she continued to walk away.
Chris sighed to himself.
Nothing like the visit from an old flame to ruin your day.
-----
Instead of attending his final class, Spock decided it would be better to skip. The day had been trying and he needed a drink to clear his head. He sent Arthur, his limo driver, off with his school bag, changed into a suit, and was walking through midtown Manhattan.
October was a lovely month in New York; the leaves were falling and it was cool without being cold.
As he made his way down 7th Avenue, he unfortunately found his thoughts lingering on Hikaru and Nyota.
Hikaru was likely still angry at him regarding his role in Nyota’s scheme to humiliate Jim in front of McCoy. Spock needed to find some way to make amends. Perhaps a Lost Weekend; just the two of them, a bar crawl, and all the available women and men they could ask for. Hikaru was single now, after all, which meant he was free to do more than look for a change.
Fortunately, Hikaru was fairly laid-back and forgave easily. It also wasn’t as if Spock involved him in schemes ordinarily. Normally he took great pains to ensure Hikaru’s happiness and wellbeing. It was short sighted of him to not think of Hikaru when he helped Nyota the other day. An apology was at least in order.
He made a mental note to go to Hikaru’s house after his walk. Mimi would certainly let him in.
There was also the problem of Nyota, and her rejection. Uncharacteristically, her spurning of his feelings stung Spock.
Not that he really had feelings for her per se.
Nyota was simply the only person Spock considered to be an equal. His life was a game of chess, and other people, including Hikaru, were the pawns. Nyota, however, was a true Queen. It would be…fitting for them to be together, if he had to be with anyone.
That was the only reason for his fascination with her.
He fixed the collar of his Sanyo Shokai trench before continuing with his walk. It wasn’t long before a building caught his eye, and he took a look at the sign on top of it.
Kolinhar, it proclaimed.
It had a vintage feel, very 1920s speakeasy. It looked as if it had once been a mansion of some sort. Spock gravitated toward it without even thinking about it. He stood before the doorway and looked up at the building. In spite of its age, it was well constructed. It hardly needed any renovations or remodeling.
He opened the door and stepped inside.
The entryway was open and led to a room with two bars on either side. Barbacks were refilling the trays of glasses and cutting fruit, obviously in preparation for that night. Past the bars there was a huge open room with a large stage. Women in a variety of shapes, sizes, and creeds stood talking to each other or stretching and warming up. Loud music pumped through the speakers.
Spock took a few steps forward. One of the bartenders noticed him and gave him a curious look.
“Can I help you?”
“Yes,” Spock said, turning his attention to the bartender. “What is this place?”
The bartender smiled. “Kolinhar’s a burlesque club. Show starts at nine.”
A burlesque club?
Fascinating.
“Are they rehearsing now?”
“They’re about to, though it’s not open to the public,” the bartender said with a pointed look.
“I am certain that I am allowed to stay,” Spock replied. He pulled out his wallet and handed the bartender a hundred dollar bill. “I am, after all, very quiet.”
The bartender glanced around him before pocketing the cash. “I think it can be arranged this one time.” He went back to checking the beer taps. “Pour you a drink?”
“Scotch, neat,” Spock said with a slight smile. The bartender grabbed a bottle of Glenlivet, pouring him a double in a rocks glass. He slid it across the bar to Spock, who took it with a nod. He then passed a fifty to the bartender; he gestured for him to keep it when he tried to give him back his change.
The bartender gestured towards the main theater part of the Kolinhar. “Help yourself to a seat, there are VIP booths up front.”
“Thank you,” Spock said with another slight smile. He made his way to the front of the theater. Some of the girls noticed him and whispered to each other about his presence. He paid them no mind as he sat in the both in front of center stage.
“Well ladies,” one of them said loudly. “Looks like we have a guest.”
Everyone turned to stare at Spock. He raised his glass to them.
“Let’s give him a taste,” she continued. The rest of the performers all cheered and grinned as they made their way backstage. Spock unbuttoned his suit jacket and made himself more comfortable. The music changed to something with a heavier beat that was more risqué.
Spock sat back and enjoyed the show.
-----
Once again, art class was over and Jim and Bones found themselves walking through the halls towards Jim’s locker. He turned the key in the lock to open it, fishing out his Economics book in the process.
“By the way,” he said to Bones as he grabbed his jacket and Ray Bans, “it’s really cool of you to give Nyota a chance. I know she can be a bit…Nyota.”
“That’s diplomatic of you,” Bones said with a smirk.
“And I know she didn’t make the greatest first impression with what she did the other day,” Jim continued. “It would really mean a lot to me if you two could maybe become friends.”
“I’m sure we’ll be shopping together in no time,” Bones said in a sarcastic voice. Jim elbowed him.
“Jerk,” he said as he rolled his eyes with a smile, and Bones laughed.
“I am sometimes, just ask Pavel.”
After a brief stop at Bones’ locker to grab his own jacket, they stepped out of the school holding hands.
Sitting perched on the ledge over-looking the steps was a boy their age in a leather jacket, red plaid shirt, clashing plaid scarf, and jeans. He had a pair of large headphones on over his ears and was wearing a pair of pink sunglasses.
At first, they didn’t notice him; Jim stopped short and raised both eyebrows.
“Hey,” he said as he grabbed Bones’ hand to tug him back. He pointed up at the kid. “We have a trespasser.”
Bones gave him a curious look before he turned his gaze upwards. “I don’t fucking believe this.”
“Well, it’s unusual, but it’s not like it’s never happened before,” Jim said with a shrug. “Security’s normally better about doing their job though, which I mean they ought to be for what tuition costs here.”
“No, I just…” Bones suddenly ducked his head down and raised a hand to shield his eyes. “C’mon, we need to go.”
Jim was completely confused. “Uh, okay. We are. I don’t see what the…”
“Hey,” the boy shouted. “McCoy!” He pulled off his headphones and jumped off the ledge, running towards them. Other students stopped to stare as he made his way over.
“Shit,” Bones exclaimed.
“Why does the trespasser know your name?”
“He’s not a trespasser, he’s…”
“Sup,” the boy said as he stood before them. He lifted the sunglasses and put them on top of his head. “Well, damn, Len, don’t look so happy to see me.”
“I’m not,” Bones said with a slight shrug. “What the hell are you doing here?”
“You said you wanted to talk, so here I am. Cut my last class, made my way across town to get you for talking. I’m thinking a Pierogi Party at Veselka; we can catch up.” At that moment he noticed the boys’ joined hands. “Which we apparently have to do a lot of that.”
Jim lifted his own sunglasses up and looked at Bones with a curious expression. Bones made a loud sigh that was incredibly put-upon.
“Jim, this is Scotty,” he said in a flat voice.
“I’m his best friend,” the boy, Scotty apparently, said with a pointed look at Bones.
“Whatever,” Bones snapped. “Scotty, this is Jim. My boyfriend.”
Jim let go of Bones’ hand to extend it in a handshake. “It’s nice to meet you, Scotty.”
Scotty eventually took his hand, giving it a shake that was a bit too hard; Jim winced a little. “Wish I could say the same.” He licked his lips for a second. “So we don’t talk for six weeks, and you start dating Richie Rich. Seriously?”
That time, Jim winced for a different reason.
“We’re not doing this here.” Bones folded his arms across his chest. “I agreed to talk, we can talk, but don’t drag Jim into this. He has no idea about anything.”
“Sure don’t,” Jim answered brightly. Scotty gave him a look.
“Good. Like I said, Pierogi Party at Veselka.” He turned and began to make his way off the school grounds. “You coming or what?”
“Five minutes,” Bones snapped back. He turned to Jim. “Sorry, he’s a little…”
“Bit of an asshole,” Jim finished.
“Kind of,” Bones conceded. Jim shook his head at him. “I’m sorry he was rude to you. I’ll chew him out for that.”
“No, it’s…” Jim sighed; he couldn’t say that it was fine because it wasn’t, but if it had really been six weeks since they last spoke it was kind-of understandable. “I mean, my best friend was pretty horrible to you the first time you met her. It’s probably just contagious. Go talk to him, it sounds like you guys have some issues to work out.”
“Understatement of the year,” Bones groused. Without care of propriety, he kissed Jim once. The kiss made Jim smile and they touched hands again briefly. “You have fun shopping with Nyota. I’m going to try and salvage my oldest friendship in the East Village.”
“Good luck,” Jim said with a smile. “Eat some of the meat pierogies for me.”
Bones raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been to Veselka?”
“I am a New Yorker born and bred,” Jim shot back with a grin. “Man…now I’m jealous. Pierogies sound awesome.”
“We can go tomorrow after the movie if you want.”
“Yes!” Jim jumped up and down. “I love it. You’re the best boyfriend!”
Bones began to blush. “Well I…I mean…”
“McCoy!” Scotty shouted from down at the bottom of the steps. “Time’s up!”
For the second time Bones sighed a sigh of the put-upon. He looked at Jim as if to say you see what I’m dealing with here. Jim squeezed his hand.
“Go on, and again good luck! Call me after!”
Bones winked at him and made his way down the steps to his friend. Or frenemy. Whatever. Jim sighed as he watched him go.
Jim’s phone beeped. He pulled it out of his pocket and checked his messages. There was one unread text from Hikaru Sulu.
He didn’t even stop to read it before hitting delete.
Jim took a moment to check his watch; fuck, he was so late, Nyota was going to kill him.
He ran down to the bottom of the steps and immediately hailed a cab to take him back to the Palace to change.
-----
Spotted at Starfleet Prep: Jim Kirk’s new boy-toy being whisked away by…I can’t believe I’m going to say this…a hipster. Ugh, gross.
Whoever this guy is, McCoy didn’t look too happy to see him. Looks like a drama bomb just dropped.
They said they were heading to Veselka, so if anyone happens to be there to get the lowdown, you’ll get a gold star from me.
Sound the trumpets, strumpets. I'll be right here waiting, Gossip Girl.
Part Two
Title: Empire State of Mind
Series: Star Trek XI fusion with the Gossip Girl television series
Rating: Pg-13ish
Pairings: Kirk/McCoy and squint and you'll see Spock/Uhura, Chapel/Sulu, and Chekov/Uhura. There are also mentions of past Kirk/Sulu, Uhura/Sulu, Pike/Winona, and one-sided McCoy/Scotty...going forward it might be easier for me to list the pairings that aren't in the chapter. Yikes.
Summary: It's Thursday on the Upper East Side, which unfortunately brings trouble.
Notes: Ugh, it's been forever, and I am so sorry, but the original Gossip Girl AU is back and better than ever!
As always, the food Jim consumes at the Palace is taken directly off their menu. Likewise, the food Scotty and Bones eat at Veselka is the same. (Okay, the banana milkshakes aren't on the menu, but they're kind of a secret thing if you know the place. Highly recommended.) I don't get into detail about it, but since I do mention it, The Modern's Chef's Tasting menu is found here.
"Vite, vite" is French for "hurry the fuck up." :D
Yes, it's Kolinhar instead of Victrola. What of it?
Yes, I also made Scotty a vegetarian hipster. I regret nothing.
Links to previous chapters:
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
This chapter has been posted in two parts due to length. Stupid word limit. *shakes fist*
“Jim,” Winona Kirk called through the suite she shared with her youngest son. “Breakfast is on the table. Your omelet’s getting cold.”
Something unintelligible was called through the door.
“What?” Winona took this opportunity to enter the room, looking imperious. Or at least, she looked as imperious as one can look in a dressing gown and robe.
He rolled his eyes as he straightened his tie. “I said in a minute,” he grumbled. Jim ran his fingers through his hair. “What’s the big deal?”
“I ordered you breakfast, I thought we could eat together before you head off to school,” she said as she came up behind him. She placed a hand on his shoulder; he had grown in the last year and was now quite a bit taller than her. Her baby was growing up so fast. “I got you the lobster omelet, I know how much you love seafood.” Winona smiled. “Well, food in general, really.”
Jim met her eyes in the reflection of the mirror. “Why’s it so important that we have breakfast together?”
“Why do you always assume that me wanting to spend time with you comes with a hidden agenda?” she retorted and he rolled his eyes.
“Because it does,” he said in a flat voice. “I mean, it means I’m in trouble or you’re getting married again. I haven’t done anything wrong since I’ve been back so that leaves you getting hitched.” Jim wriggled out from her grasp and made his way over to a box labeled Jim’s shoes. He began to root through it, presumably for a particular pair.
Winona huffed. “I’m not getting married, and you really should unpack. Like it or not, this is our home for the next six months while the penthouse is renovated. You should treat it as such. Now, come have breakfast, I want to hear about how school is going.”
Jim sighed. He had found one of his shoes, a Ferragamo loafer, and was rooting through the box for the match. “Just let me finish this, I’ll be right out.”
Winona waved even though he couldn’t really see it. “Fine, I’ll make your coffee the way you like it.” She stepped back into the common area of the room. “If you take too much longer you’ll be late.”
After a minute or two, Jim emerged with a pair of Ray Bans perched on top of his head, and the Ferragmos in place on his feet. He eyed the table somewhat warily. Wordlessly, he took the seat across from his mother.
True to her word, Winona had the lobster omelet waiting, plus fresh coffee and orange juice, a basket of croissants, and assorted berries.
“Dig in,” she said from over top The New York Times, although she was a bit late as Jim was already eating. “Although…I should apologize.”
Jim froze with a mouthful of omelet. “What?”
“I should apologize, for how little I’ve been around since you’ve been home.” She sat the newspaper down and looked at him through her reading glasses. “I mean, admittedly your return was on short notice, and it was hard for me to reschedule certain things…”
Jim rolled his eyes.
“…But I have time now. I know our first meeting since your return went poorly, and I also know you don’t enjoy the family therapy.”
“Understatements of the year,” he couldn’t help but say.
Winona gave him a pointed look. “I am trying, Jim. The least you could do is afford me the same courtesy.”
Swallowing a mouthful of omelet, Jim thought for a while. “Yeah, I guess I can do that.”
“Good. We can start tomorrow after school. I have meetings this evening, but tomorrow my schedule is clear. We can get Sam from the center, go to Park Avenue Autumn for dinner…”
“Um…” Jim shook his head. “I can’t tomorrow. I have plans.”
Winona took her glasses off to look at him more carefully. “Plans? With Nyota and Hikaru?”
Jim sighed; he looked hesitant, which meant that they were certainly not with Nyota or Hikaru. How odd. “No, plans with Bo…Leonard.”
His mother stared blankly at him. “I don’t know the name.”
“He’s not…he isn’t…I mean I go to school with him, he’s in my art class. But you wouldn’t know him. He’s not from my usual circle.”
Winona continued to look at her son with a blank expression. “I see. Well, I suppose it’s good of you to be making new friends. Although this is a bit sudden…”
“Well um. We’re not just…I mean, it’s a date.” Jim was suddenly very interested in his coffee. “We’re going on a date.”
“A…a date?” Now Winona looked confused.
He was still interested in his coffee, almost painfully so. “Yeah, we’re going to see a movie at the Sunshine, maybe grab something to eat after.” Jim finally looked up at her then, and he smiled crookedly. “Sorry, but I really can’t tomorrow. Maybe Saturday, or we could do a family brunch thing on Sunday.”
“Sunday is the S’chn T’gai foundation brunch,” she supplied almost automatically. “Which we are going to, you and I. I don’t think Sam is quite ready for a social function like that, but we need to attend.”
“Fair enough,” Jim said with a shrug. The brunch was an annual gathering, and the only reason why he missed it last year was because he was in Connecticut at the time. “Then let’s do the family thing Saturday, I won’t make any other plans I promise, but tomorrow…I can’t.”
Winona tilted her head to one side. “This Leonard…what do his parents do?”
“Why does that matter?” Jim said stiffly.
“It matters because I’ve never heard of him before, and you are being very insistent about these plans with him. I’m simply trying to figure out why.”
Jim took the last bite of his omelet and chewed it thoroughly. He swallowed. “His dad’s Doctor Pike, the head of Starfleet’s history department. Mom’s in Princeton doing research.” He took a swig of juice. “And I already told you, I’m insistent because these aren’t just any plans, we’re going on a date.” He got up from the table and went back into his room to get a jacket.
…Doctor Pike?
Winona only knew of one person with the surname Pike. But…it couldn’t be.
Could it?
“I see,” she finally said. “Well, I won’t stand in your way then. However, I do ask one thing.”
Jim groaned. “Yeah, okay. What?”
“He needs to pick you up here tomorrow so I can meet him.”
Once more, Jim emerged from his room, this time with a Burberry jacket and his sunglasses on his face. “Since when do you need to meet my dates?”
“Since when do you date at all?” she retorted. “This is the first time I can remember you simply going on a date with someone, Jim. Obviously this…Leonard is special to you, which means I need to meet him.”
Jim frowned. “Fine, whatever. I’ll let him know.” He shifted his schoolbag on his shoulder. “Can I go now?”
Wisely, Winona chose to ignore him. “Have a good day at school, darling.”
Jim half-heartedly smiled at her as he made his way out the door, leaving Winona alone. She went to her room and picked up her cellphone. She scrolled through the contacts in her Palm until she found Headmaster Barnett. She then called him. The phone rang twice.
This is Richard Barnett.
“Richard, it’s Winona Kirk,” she said with a smile she wasn’t sure she felt. “I need to see one of your instructors today. Can you give me the information for Doctor Pike’s planning period?”
Pavel and Leonard made their way up the steps to Starfleet prep.
“Not waiting for Jim today?” Pavel asked. Leonard shook his head.
“No, I told him I’d just see him at lunch,” he answered. “We had a lot of fun last night though.”
“Yeah I could tell,” his little brother said in a smug tone. “You were actually smiling for once. It was pretty obvious, not to mention disturbing.”
“Shut up, I smile sometimes,” Len snapped. “I just don’t do it constantly because it lessens the impact.” He dug his phone out of his pocket to check the time; there was still fifteen minutes before class. Their dad had undoubtedly been here for an hour already. “Besides, it’s not like we’ve had a lot of reason for it the last few months.”
“Yeah, I guess,” Pavel conceded. “When do you think Mom’s going to come back anyway?”
Len hesitated, and as he did so, his phone beeped. He looked down at it, and sure enough the screen said he had a text message. He flipped it open to read it.
We need to talk.
He scowled before typing back a reply. Pretty sure you said everything that needs to be said.
“Who is that,” Pavel said as he peered over his shoulder.
“No one,” he said back. The phone beeped again. He opened it back up.
Don’t be a douche. You know I’m right.
Len made an annoyed sound and typed back If you’re trying to get me to want to talk to you, you’re going about it the wrong way.
Pavel stared at his brother. “Wow, okay. You went from zero to angry in like…ten seconds.”
There was another beep. He opened his phone back up.
Seriously, stop being such an asshole. I’m trying, aren’t I?
Making another annoyed sound, he replied with Yeah, you’re trying six weeks late.
A proverbial light bulb went off over Pavel’s head and his expression became sympathetic. “Oh. You’re fighting with Scotty.”
The phone beeped. Len looked at Pavel. “That obvious?”
“I haven’t seen you this angry since that day back in August,” Pavel said. “Although you never did tell Dad and me what happened.”
“None of your business,” Len said as he opened his phone.
What matters is that I’m trying at all. I’m tired of this cold war shit.
“Whatever,” Leonard said as he closed his phone back up. “I don’t have time for this.” He began to make his way into the school and to his locker.
“Is he trying to make up with you,” Pavel asked as he followed him.
“If he is, he shouldn’t quit his day job.” They reached his locker, and he angrily opened it. “I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Okay.” For once, Pavel dropped it. “I need to get my books. I’ll see you after school.” With that he made his way down the hall to his own locker. About halfway there, he turned and looked at his older brother. “You know, even though Yom Kippur already happened, it’s not too late to right some wrongs.”
Leonard scowled at him. Dropping it, yeah right. He should have known better. “You’re such a brat.”
“Don’t get mad just because I’m right,” Pavel said with a shrug. He turned the corner and made his way to his locker. Leonard looked down at his phone.
The crappy thing was that Pavel was right.
He sighed and opened it.
Fine. Whatever, we’ll talk.
He snapped it closed and put it in his coat pocket in his locker. He then grabbed his Latin book and made his way to his first class.
He didn’t notice that Hikaru Sulu was watching him the whole time.
Christine Chapel sat on the steps of the Met, one level below her queen, Nyota Uhura. Gaila sat next to her, and the three of them ate their yogurt parfaits and surveyed the commoners below.
“I can’t believe you went out with Kevin Riley,” Christine said to Gaila as she ate a spoonful of vanilla yogurt and blueberries.
“It was a waste of time,” Gaila said breezily. “I mean, I’m totally not his type.” She paused to take a sip of her iced tea. “I mean, no girl is.”
Nyota raised an eyebrow. “So he’s…”
“As the day is long,” Gaila said with a shrug. “He has to be, all he did was kiss me on the cheek at the end of our date. No one goes on a date with this,” she said with a gesture at her figure, “and just kisses me on the cheek.”
Nyota rolled her eyes, and Christine made a low noise in her throat.
“Considering you’ve been with every guy at Starfleet and half of Unity, I can safely say that you’re probably right.”
Gaila threw a sugar packet at her. “I haven’t been with every guy at Starfleet, and ew, Unity. I’ve just been with like…ten guys. There’s way more than that here at Starfleet, although the freshmen can forget it.”
“Nice to see you have some standards,” Christine shot back. “Besides, I guess you’re right. You haven’t been with Jim Kirk.”
Gaila gave her a look. “Not for lack of trying, but no girl has boldly gone there. He is, like, super gay. Although, I did hear a rumor that he…”
This was when Nyota cleared her throat. “Ahem. We don’t mention the Wicked Bitch of the East. I’m pretty sure her name can summon her, and I’m not in the mood for a takedown today.”
Christine and Gaila looked at her curiously.
“You? Not in the mood?” Christine had a look on her face that was concerned. Inwardly, of course, she was shocked. Well, and smug. Maybe the path to Queen would be easier than expected. “The break up with Hikaru must be hitting you harder than we thought.”
“What?” Nyota ran her fingers through her hair, looking for non-existent split ends. Naturally, it was flawless, perfectly styled, not a curl or her headband out of place.
God, she was a bitch.
“Oh that. Well yes, that’s difficult, but I actually meant because I’m in a surprisingly good mood.” She shrugged. “No, Jim and I are hitting Bergdorf’s after school. It’s been too long since our last shopping trip. I still haven’t gotten a dress for my upcoming birthday party, after all, and his taste is flawless. He has just the right amount of avant-garde mixed with fondness for the classics.”
Now Gaila and Christine were outright staring at her.
“What?” she snapped.
“Didn’t you just…I mean…we saw what you did the other day, with the humiliation and the outing of secrets to that kid, whatever his name is.”
Nyota waved a hand. “Ancient history. Jim and I are back to where we belong.”
“Uh…huh,” Christine said in a low voice. On the one hand, she shouldn’t be surprised. This kind of thing was de rigeur for Jim and Nyota. On the other hand, it wasn’t like Nyota to forgive and forget so easily. It had barely been two days since she found out about the Sheppard wedding. That type of information should involve weeks of torture, not just hours.
Bitterly, Christine couldn’t help but think that if she were in Jim’s place Nyota would not be nearly as forgiving.
Speaking of Jim, he was walking up with plate of sushi and a drink with that guy from the other day. What was his name? McBain or something like that. Whatever. They looked like they were having a good time. The two boys looked for a place to sit, ostensibly alone together.
Aw, a lunch date. How quaint.
“Well, well, look what the cat dragged in,” Christine said as she went back to her yogurt. Nyota and Gaila followed her gaze to Jim and that boy.
Nyota lit up. “Oh there they are. I’ll be back in a moment, girls.” With that, she stood and glided over to the pair. Jim lit up at her approach while that guy looked confused and pissed off. They were just close enough that Christine could listen to them if she concentrated.
“Jim,” Nyota said with a warm smile.
“Nyota, hey,” he said. He reached out a hand and squeezed hers lightly. She grinned up at him before turning to what’s his name.
“I’m sorry, we got off on the wrong foot,” she said with an extension of her hand. “I’m Nyota Uhura. It’s so nice to meet you, Leonard McCoy.”
McCoy, that was his name. Not like it mattered, since Christine could practically count the minutes until Jim moved on from him to his next investment banker, polo player, Pamplonian bullfighter, or all of the above.
McCoy was just looking down at her hand with an annoyed expression. “Wish I could say the same.”
Christine raised both eyebrows. Well, look who decided to become a little interesting.
Nyota narrowed her eyes briefly before sticking her hand out more emphatically. The McCoy kid finally took the hint and barely shook it. She plastered a fake smile on her face.
“My friends call me Nyota,” she said. “Since you and Jim are getting to be close, I figure you should call me by my given name as well. I’m sure we’re going to be spending a lot of time together in the future.”
McCoy looked at Jim, who whispered something in his ear. He shrugged. “Yeah. Sure. Nyota it is. You can call me Leonard.”
Jim began to look pleased and a little relieved as Nyota smoothed a non-existent wrinkle out of her skirt. “Wonderful. How about lunch, the three of us, on Saturday?”
Jim shook his head. “I can’t, I’ve got family stuff. Winona made me clear off the whole day.”
“That’s a shame,” Nyota said with a sad face. “Well, Leonard, what about you and I get lunch together then? I’d love to get better acquainted.”
“Oh I don’t think that’s such a good…” McCoy began before Jim noticeably elbowed him in the side. “I mean…I guess I can do that. It’s just lunch right?”
Nyota laughed. “It is the most casual of meals, yes. Let’s do something easy, like the café at Bergdorf’s; it’ll be just a quick meal together as new friends. You’d like that, wouldn’t you?”
Christine knew a warning when she heard one, and that was most definitely a warning. Apparently, McCoy took it as one too because his stance lost some of its edge.
“Sure,” he said finally. “Sounds good. See you then.” He turned to Jim, and the two of them began to make their way back towards the school grounds. Nyota watched them go with a serious look on her face before turning back to her friends. She walked up the steps and took her place once more.
There was a long silence.
“What was that about?” Gaila finally asked as she adjusted the strap on one of her shoes.
“It’s called damage control,” Nyota said in a light tone. “Look it up.”
Christine was careful not to openly roll her eyes. “How can you do damage control when nothing’s happened yet? All they’ve done is eat lunch together and go to the Ocean Grill.”
“Exactly,” their Queen explained. “For some reason that only God could possibly know, Jim is serious about that nobody.” She dug back into her yogurt with a smile. “It’s hard to date above your station; I’m simply going to make sure he doesn’t make it even harder.”
Gaila smiled up at Nyota. “I knew you were up to something. You always think three steps ahead.”
“Right, which is why I’m the Queen, and you’re…where you are,” Nyota said with a shrug. “By the way, Gaila, are those new Louboutins?”
“They are,” Gaila squealed happily. “I just got them this weekend.”
“They’re lovely,” Nyota agreed. The two of them began to compare shoe-shopping notes, and Christine, who normally would have joined in, tuned them out, because the object of her affections began to walk by.
Hikaru Sulu was talking to Stonn and a few of the guys from the lacrosse team. He was laughing at something they were saying; his smile was bright and cheerful. He looked incredibly handsome, a fact that made Christine’s heart skip in her chest.
Sure, he and Nyota had only recently broken up. And sure, they had broken up because he cheated on her with her male best friend. But it wasn’t the first time a drunk guy had gone briefly gay for Jim…he just kind of had that affect on people.
It was obvious that Hikaru wasn’t gay.
So maybe…it was time to do something about her crush.
Except for the fact that as long as Nyota was Queen there was no way that she could make a move on him.
At least, she couldn’t until Nyota started dating someone else.
Wait a minute.
That was definitely something to look into, Christine thought as she finished her yogurt. Especially since if she got together with Hikaru, who was one of the most popular boys in school, she’d have the ability to dethrone Nyota.
Now to just figure out a prospect from the list of eligible bachelors.
Spotted at the Met: I spy a peace summit between Queen N and Jim’s new boy. Are these two fast friends or is Nyota in the market for a new frenemy?
Surprisingly, all seems well between she and Jim. I know I at least expected that war to last a little longer. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see what trouble these two besties get up to together instead.
I’ll be watching when she and McCoy go to lunch, just to make sure there’s no catfight over canapés and cocktails. If there is, you’ll be the first to know.
You know you love me, Gossip Girl.
Christopher Pike gathered the blue books from his last class on his desk. He quickly alphabetized them by last name and put them into his briefcase. He knew his students all complained about the fact that his exams were all essays and short answer, but it was better than simple multiple choice. History was more than dates, it was details, and he made sure his kids knew those details.
He had just locked his briefcase when a knock sounded on his door.
“Yes, just a…” He trailed off as he saw the woman standing before him.
“I should have known,” Winona Kirk said in reply.
“Winona,” Chris said, and he was unable to keep the shock out of his voice. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t expecting to see you. Ever again, I mean, not just today.”
“Why is my son dating yours?”
“They’re dating?” Chris ran his fingers through his hair. “Leonard mentioned they were hanging out, but he never said they were dating.”
Winona smiled, although it was unkind. “I know more about Jim’s life than another parent knows about his child. This is a momentous occasion. And yes, they are dating. Leonard is apparently taking Jim to the movies tomorrow. There was a mention of dinner after.” She moved so that she was standing right in front of him. “If my memory serves, that’s your idea of a night out.”
“Well, we can’t all whisk someone away to Chamonix in a G6 for the weekend,” he shot back. “That’s how George proposed, isn’t it?”
“You’re doing this to get to me. You’re using my son and your own to weasel your way back into my life.”
“I didn’t realize Jim Kirk is your son.”
Winona stared at him.
“Okay, I absolutely realized that Jim is your son,” he admitted with a shrug. “It’s a small island. But, Winona, who Leonard decides he wants to be with is up to him. I’ll tell you that I’m not exactly thrilled about it either. I know all the faculty here, I know what your kid was like before he left.” He smiled at her. “Came to class drunk more than once, back talked the teachers, showed up late all the time. That’s ignoring the rumored drug habit.” Christopher started a slow clap. “Kudos on the child-rearing skills. Obviously money can’t buy everything.”
“Low blow,” Winona said in a smooth voice edged with steel.
“It’s not if it’s the truth,” he explained with a wave of his hand.
“May I speak plainly?”
Christopher gave her a bewildered expression. “Because what you’ve been doing hasn’t been blunt and straight-forward?”
Winona smiled again. “Jim’s record at Thomas More was exemplary. He stayed in, was quiet, kept to himself, and pulled his grades up. I would like to see these trends continue.”
“Well, sure, but I’m not understanding what that has to do with my son.”
“The last thing he needs is some boy swooping in and distracting him from his new lifestyle.”
Christopher leaned against his desk as he folded his arms across his desk. “No offense, but a boy like Len is exactly the kind of boy Jim should be with. Len is second in their class, responsible, doesn’t lie, doesn’t drink or do drugs.” He grinned at her. “Why, he sounds a lot like your new Jim.”
Winona frowned. “I must not be clear. I want your son to stay away from Jim.”
“I’m also not being clear, because there’s no way I’m telling him they can’t date.” Chris frowned at her. “They’re old enough that they can make their own decisions. They like each other, I’m assuming they make each other happy from the lightness Len had when he came home last night. If it becomes a problem, I’ll deal with it. Right now, it’s not a problem.” He went back behind his desk and took a seat. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have actual work to do.”
Taking that for the dismissal it was, Winona began to walk out of the room. “Just stay out of my life, Chris.” He gave her a sarcastic wave as she continued to walk away.
Chris sighed to himself.
Nothing like the visit from an old flame to ruin your day.
Instead of attending his final class, Spock decided it would be better to skip. The day had been trying and he needed a drink to clear his head. He sent Arthur, his limo driver, off with his school bag, changed into a suit, and was walking through midtown Manhattan.
October was a lovely month in New York; the leaves were falling and it was cool without being cold.
As he made his way down 7th Avenue, he unfortunately found his thoughts lingering on Hikaru and Nyota.
Hikaru was likely still angry at him regarding his role in Nyota’s scheme to humiliate Jim in front of McCoy. Spock needed to find some way to make amends. Perhaps a Lost Weekend; just the two of them, a bar crawl, and all the available women and men they could ask for. Hikaru was single now, after all, which meant he was free to do more than look for a change.
Fortunately, Hikaru was fairly laid-back and forgave easily. It also wasn’t as if Spock involved him in schemes ordinarily. Normally he took great pains to ensure Hikaru’s happiness and wellbeing. It was short sighted of him to not think of Hikaru when he helped Nyota the other day. An apology was at least in order.
He made a mental note to go to Hikaru’s house after his walk. Mimi would certainly let him in.
There was also the problem of Nyota, and her rejection. Uncharacteristically, her spurning of his feelings stung Spock.
Not that he really had feelings for her per se.
Nyota was simply the only person Spock considered to be an equal. His life was a game of chess, and other people, including Hikaru, were the pawns. Nyota, however, was a true Queen. It would be…fitting for them to be together, if he had to be with anyone.
That was the only reason for his fascination with her.
He fixed the collar of his Sanyo Shokai trench before continuing with his walk. It wasn’t long before a building caught his eye, and he took a look at the sign on top of it.
Kolinhar, it proclaimed.
It had a vintage feel, very 1920s speakeasy. It looked as if it had once been a mansion of some sort. Spock gravitated toward it without even thinking about it. He stood before the doorway and looked up at the building. In spite of its age, it was well constructed. It hardly needed any renovations or remodeling.
He opened the door and stepped inside.
The entryway was open and led to a room with two bars on either side. Barbacks were refilling the trays of glasses and cutting fruit, obviously in preparation for that night. Past the bars there was a huge open room with a large stage. Women in a variety of shapes, sizes, and creeds stood talking to each other or stretching and warming up. Loud music pumped through the speakers.
Spock took a few steps forward. One of the bartenders noticed him and gave him a curious look.
“Can I help you?”
“Yes,” Spock said, turning his attention to the bartender. “What is this place?”
The bartender smiled. “Kolinhar’s a burlesque club. Show starts at nine.”
A burlesque club?
Fascinating.
“Are they rehearsing now?”
“They’re about to, though it’s not open to the public,” the bartender said with a pointed look.
“I am certain that I am allowed to stay,” Spock replied. He pulled out his wallet and handed the bartender a hundred dollar bill. “I am, after all, very quiet.”
The bartender glanced around him before pocketing the cash. “I think it can be arranged this one time.” He went back to checking the beer taps. “Pour you a drink?”
“Scotch, neat,” Spock said with a slight smile. The bartender grabbed a bottle of Glenlivet, pouring him a double in a rocks glass. He slid it across the bar to Spock, who took it with a nod. He then passed a fifty to the bartender; he gestured for him to keep it when he tried to give him back his change.
The bartender gestured towards the main theater part of the Kolinhar. “Help yourself to a seat, there are VIP booths up front.”
“Thank you,” Spock said with another slight smile. He made his way to the front of the theater. Some of the girls noticed him and whispered to each other about his presence. He paid them no mind as he sat in the both in front of center stage.
“Well ladies,” one of them said loudly. “Looks like we have a guest.”
Everyone turned to stare at Spock. He raised his glass to them.
“Let’s give him a taste,” she continued. The rest of the performers all cheered and grinned as they made their way backstage. Spock unbuttoned his suit jacket and made himself more comfortable. The music changed to something with a heavier beat that was more risqué.
Spock sat back and enjoyed the show.
Once again, art class was over and Jim and Bones found themselves walking through the halls towards Jim’s locker. He turned the key in the lock to open it, fishing out his Economics book in the process.
“By the way,” he said to Bones as he grabbed his jacket and Ray Bans, “it’s really cool of you to give Nyota a chance. I know she can be a bit…Nyota.”
“That’s diplomatic of you,” Bones said with a smirk.
“And I know she didn’t make the greatest first impression with what she did the other day,” Jim continued. “It would really mean a lot to me if you two could maybe become friends.”
“I’m sure we’ll be shopping together in no time,” Bones said in a sarcastic voice. Jim elbowed him.
“Jerk,” he said as he rolled his eyes with a smile, and Bones laughed.
“I am sometimes, just ask Pavel.”
After a brief stop at Bones’ locker to grab his own jacket, they stepped out of the school holding hands.
Sitting perched on the ledge over-looking the steps was a boy their age in a leather jacket, red plaid shirt, clashing plaid scarf, and jeans. He had a pair of large headphones on over his ears and was wearing a pair of pink sunglasses.
At first, they didn’t notice him; Jim stopped short and raised both eyebrows.
“Hey,” he said as he grabbed Bones’ hand to tug him back. He pointed up at the kid. “We have a trespasser.”
Bones gave him a curious look before he turned his gaze upwards. “I don’t fucking believe this.”
“Well, it’s unusual, but it’s not like it’s never happened before,” Jim said with a shrug. “Security’s normally better about doing their job though, which I mean they ought to be for what tuition costs here.”
“No, I just…” Bones suddenly ducked his head down and raised a hand to shield his eyes. “C’mon, we need to go.”
Jim was completely confused. “Uh, okay. We are. I don’t see what the…”
“Hey,” the boy shouted. “McCoy!” He pulled off his headphones and jumped off the ledge, running towards them. Other students stopped to stare as he made his way over.
“Shit,” Bones exclaimed.
“Why does the trespasser know your name?”
“He’s not a trespasser, he’s…”
“Sup,” the boy said as he stood before them. He lifted the sunglasses and put them on top of his head. “Well, damn, Len, don’t look so happy to see me.”
“I’m not,” Bones said with a slight shrug. “What the hell are you doing here?”
“You said you wanted to talk, so here I am. Cut my last class, made my way across town to get you for talking. I’m thinking a Pierogi Party at Veselka; we can catch up.” At that moment he noticed the boys’ joined hands. “Which we apparently have to do a lot of that.”
Jim lifted his own sunglasses up and looked at Bones with a curious expression. Bones made a loud sigh that was incredibly put-upon.
“Jim, this is Scotty,” he said in a flat voice.
“I’m his best friend,” the boy, Scotty apparently, said with a pointed look at Bones.
“Whatever,” Bones snapped. “Scotty, this is Jim. My boyfriend.”
Jim let go of Bones’ hand to extend it in a handshake. “It’s nice to meet you, Scotty.”
Scotty eventually took his hand, giving it a shake that was a bit too hard; Jim winced a little. “Wish I could say the same.” He licked his lips for a second. “So we don’t talk for six weeks, and you start dating Richie Rich. Seriously?”
That time, Jim winced for a different reason.
“We’re not doing this here.” Bones folded his arms across his chest. “I agreed to talk, we can talk, but don’t drag Jim into this. He has no idea about anything.”
“Sure don’t,” Jim answered brightly. Scotty gave him a look.
“Good. Like I said, Pierogi Party at Veselka.” He turned and began to make his way off the school grounds. “You coming or what?”
“Five minutes,” Bones snapped back. He turned to Jim. “Sorry, he’s a little…”
“Bit of an asshole,” Jim finished.
“Kind of,” Bones conceded. Jim shook his head at him. “I’m sorry he was rude to you. I’ll chew him out for that.”
“No, it’s…” Jim sighed; he couldn’t say that it was fine because it wasn’t, but if it had really been six weeks since they last spoke it was kind-of understandable. “I mean, my best friend was pretty horrible to you the first time you met her. It’s probably just contagious. Go talk to him, it sounds like you guys have some issues to work out.”
“Understatement of the year,” Bones groused. Without care of propriety, he kissed Jim once. The kiss made Jim smile and they touched hands again briefly. “You have fun shopping with Nyota. I’m going to try and salvage my oldest friendship in the East Village.”
“Good luck,” Jim said with a smile. “Eat some of the meat pierogies for me.”
Bones raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been to Veselka?”
“I am a New Yorker born and bred,” Jim shot back with a grin. “Man…now I’m jealous. Pierogies sound awesome.”
“We can go tomorrow after the movie if you want.”
“Yes!” Jim jumped up and down. “I love it. You’re the best boyfriend!”
Bones began to blush. “Well I…I mean…”
“McCoy!” Scotty shouted from down at the bottom of the steps. “Time’s up!”
For the second time Bones sighed a sigh of the put-upon. He looked at Jim as if to say you see what I’m dealing with here. Jim squeezed his hand.
“Go on, and again good luck! Call me after!”
Bones winked at him and made his way down the steps to his friend. Or frenemy. Whatever. Jim sighed as he watched him go.
Jim’s phone beeped. He pulled it out of his pocket and checked his messages. There was one unread text from Hikaru Sulu.
He didn’t even stop to read it before hitting delete.
Jim took a moment to check his watch; fuck, he was so late, Nyota was going to kill him.
He ran down to the bottom of the steps and immediately hailed a cab to take him back to the Palace to change.
Spotted at Starfleet Prep: Jim Kirk’s new boy-toy being whisked away by…I can’t believe I’m going to say this…a hipster. Ugh, gross.
Whoever this guy is, McCoy didn’t look too happy to see him. Looks like a drama bomb just dropped.
They said they were heading to Veselka, so if anyone happens to be there to get the lowdown, you’ll get a gold star from me.
Sound the trumpets, strumpets. I'll be right here waiting, Gossip Girl.
Part Two
