Welcome to Day Twelve of Just Jot It January, where the prompt is: “tingle.” Today, I offer you another peek into my fan fiction playground, with a second installment to my Arachnid Nebula sequel story, so far unnamed.
If you want to know what happens before this segment, the title link above will transport you to Arachnid, and my Day Ten post, “There Are Other Dangers” contains the first installment of this sequel.
And, as always, standard disclaimer applies. I write these stories for love, not profit. I don’t own the characters or their world. It’s not my fault that they keep whispering stories in my head, and that they demand I write them, is it?
Twisted, but Not Taken
“What I sensed in your mind, and the doctor’s readings, indicate that you are in danger of developing Pa’Naar Syndrome as a result of the contact with Tolaris.” Kov’s voice held gravity, and regret.
“I’m not familiar with that condition,” Phlox said.
“Nor am I,” T’Pol said. A tingle of awareness through her fingertips; Trip was confused, and afraid for her. It was perhaps illogical to be grateful for that; that he should care for her well-being, even after her telerotic infidelity to him.
“If T’Pol authorizes it, I’ll provide you with the basics of the condition, Doctor. However, our customs dictate that the sharing of such information is a confidential matter.”
“I quite understand,” Phlox retreated; his respect for her customs was admirable.
“I guess that means it’s time for me to go, too. I’m glad you’re feeling better -”
“Please stay.” The tingle was stronger now, and more certain. He wanted to be here with her, perhaps needed reassurance as much as she did.
“You sure? If this is confidential – ”
“It concerns you – Trip.” Perhaps, in giving him the courtesy of his chosen appellation, she could convince him. Illogical or otherwise, she was grateful, and she was unwilling to cease touching him, feeling the impressions of his human mind with its rampant, unrestrained emotions woven through the fabric of each thought.
“If you really want me to stay -”
“I want you to hold me.” Had she meant to speak, or to sound so – needful?
“Kov, you sure she’s OK?” His concern was a sharp note in both words and scent. His mind was intent; so were his eyes as he studied her. “I mean, you’ve got to admit, T’Pol, you’re not exactly the cuddling type.”
“I assure you both – this is a most logical request, given the circumstances. Pa’Naar Syndrome attacks the neural system, and it can be quite potent. Physical contact with a trusted companion can ease the symptoms at the syndrome’s onset.”
“So you trust me, eh?” It was less a thought-sending, and more a random thought carried with his surprise and pleasure. “Uh, how do you want to do this, T’Pol?”
Perhaps it was inappropriate to speak to such things, but Kov was V’Tosh Katur, and Trip was human. “In – in my quarters – you held me against you…” She couldn’t meet his eyes.
This is great. Love it.