Under the Mistletoe

The lounge air smelled of pine, mint, and champagne as crewmembers alike were in the festive spirits. It was the annual winter holiday party and this year, I had finally made the choice to attend. 

I found myself by the wine bar, slowly sampling the different options as I observed those around me. Everyone was having fun, and that brought a small smile to my face.

Though I couldn’t help but feel a bit lonely.

But before I could go on my search, my mental request had been answered. Doctor McCoy approached me with a warm, friendly expression on his face. My eyes perked up as I turned to face him.

“Hey! I didn’t expect to see you here.”

“I didn’t either, to tell you the truth, but that was until I heard about the bar. Can’t go wrong with that.”

I nodded my head, glancing at the counter then back up at him, “You’ve got that right. I can’t seem to find myself favoring any of them, though.”

“Mm, here.”

After setting his glass of brandy down, he cupped my shoulder to show me a unique ornate bottle. Artsy fartsy, I thought. He lifted it up and without a second thought, he poured me a glass, “If you prefer something sweet, then you’ll love this. I believe it is..”

I sniffed then beamed, “Strawberries?!”

The older man smiled as I took a sip, my eyes sparkling with excitement and satisfaction. He picked up his glass, clinking it against mine as we spent our time together. We laughed and joked, watching our colleagues having the time of their lives. At one point, though, the two of us wandered off to somewhere more quiet.

As I was rambling about something, he tapped my shoulder. I turned to him and spoke softly, “What is it?”

“Look,” he said, gently pointing up the ceiling.

A mistletoe. I could feel my face flush with heat and color.

My words began to sputter, “I, uhm.. wow, look at that. One of the ensigns must’ve put that up.. or something…”

McCoy smiled tenderly before taking a step closer to me. My words continued like vomit, “I.. should we? I mean, you’re my doctor… isn’t that?..”

“I don’t care.”

His fingers grazed along my cheek before finally settling on the crook of my neck. A small, breathy shudder escaped me but was quickly silenced as he kissed me. I kissed him back without any hesitation, melting into him like my life depended on it. We held like this for a moment before separating, his eyes glazed with an unapologetic fondness.

“You’re very soft.”

“Hush.”