His regular medical examination goes without incident until the doctor takes a deep breath. Since this is a typical human indicator of the wish to share information, Spock says: “Yes?” He makes sure to raise his voice in question.
The doctor makes a thoughtful noise, and Spock detects a hint of pity in his expression. “Damn, I’m sorry. I know it ain’t nice for you to be touched by someone else, but we gotta – “
“I am aware that examinations are an important part of maintaining the crew’s health.”
McCoy nods. “Well, yeah. But – I mean.” He shrugs a bit and runs a hand through his hair. “Especially when I look at your hands, ‘s gotta be uncomfortable, right? Isn’t that like a kiss? You know, humans kiss differently – “
Spock raises an eyebrow. “The mechanics of human intimacy are not unfamiliar to me, Doctor. You do not need to lecture me. And your touch does not cause me any physical or mental harm, as it is purely professional.”
“Right.” McCoy takes a step back, the pity having vanished from his face.
After he has dressed himself and is almost out of the sickbay’s door, Spock turns around once more. “Do not worry about my knowledge considering the part of human sexuality that you refer to as ‘kissing’. The Captain’s private lessons have been very effective, and they still are every night, if I may say so.”
Spock may or may not be smiling to himself when he hears the doctor curse in a thick Southern accent as soon as he leaves the sickbay. Another lesson awaits.
Moami 