purrfection

“Spock, would you mind if we just cuddle here for a little while. I hope you don’t mind, but indulge me, won’t you?”

“Of course, Jim. Is something upsetting you?”

“Oh, nothing in particular, just this and that, and I haven’t had a good break in a while.”

“Are there any tasks I can complete for you, to help alleviate some of your stressors?” Jim smiled as Spock pronounced the ‘or’ in ‘stressors’ with maximal enunciation.

“No, no, just being here with you for a little while will help tremendously.” He shifted in place, getting his head more comfortable on Spock’s chest. “Do you like cats, Spock?”

“I fail to see the relevance of the question, captain.”

“I was thinking about getting one for the ship. You know, boost morale, bring a smile to people’s faces.”

“That would, in fact, be a violation of Starfleet regulation.”

“What, boosting morale isn’t allowed anymore?” Kirk nudged Spock mirthfully, “I’m sure they could make an exception.”

“I am skeptical, Captain. Starfleet would likely order it removed, regardless of its effect on crew morale.”

“In any case, Spock, what do you think of cats?”

“I admit, I find them intriguing. They are much like Vulcans, in some ways.”

“Like Vulcans?” He gave a short chuckle. “How is that?”

“You of course know of the myth that claims cats project a so-called ‘healing aura’ with their vocalizations.”

“When they purr, yes. You aren’t suggesting that Vulcans have magic healing powers now, are you?”

“No, Captain, however, the myth is not entirely unfounded. Cats exhibit similar features to Vulcans, in their ability to touch minds, albeit to a lesser degree. This ability does allow them to calm human emotions, which promotes rest and, indirectly, healing.” Kirk’s incredulous smile only continued to grow with each word Spock said.

Kirk tilted his head up from Spock’s chest, “Next you’re going to tell me that Vulcans purr when you pet them just right.” Jim laughed softly and shifted around again, so as to more conveniently allow him to cuddle Spock’s side.

He then proceeded to gently run his hand down from the side of Spock’s face to his chest and side, and slowly repeated the motion several times. Kirk couldn’t help but chuckle at his own silly charade, which Spock seemed to be taking so seriously.

But then, Spock’s eyes shut, and a subtle ghost of a smile might have been visible on his lips. Kirk watched in wonder for a moment, before resting his head back on Spock’s chest and closing his eyes, just in time to hear the soft rumble emanating from Spock’s chest.

When he next awoke, Jim did indeed feel rested and, indirectly, healed.