Author's Note: sequel to 'Indecision'

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Touching

The door closed behind her and she stood there, so close to him. Once again her eyes were locked on his. "Explain." No other words, just that one command. And it was a command. There were elements of both fear and anger in her voice. There was no need for more words from her, he knew what she referred to. He took a deep breath, centered himself. He wanted to touch her so much, but it was a craving that he must suppress until she gave permission.

"You have been my student, but are no longer." She nodded. Good, she understood that part. "You are now my aide, under my command." Was that comprehension dawning in her eyes? "If.. If you were not my aide, not under my command..." His voice trailed off, watching the wonder in her eyes. "I... Nyota... I..."

Her hand came floating up beside his face. Soft, cool fingers laid themselves gently upon his cheek. "Spock, I think you are trying to tell me something important." Her eyes were shining, her voice soft. Through her fingers against his skin he felt wonder, anticipation.

"Yes, important." He tried to block the link growing between them, unsuccessfully. He managed to dampen it down so that only a tendril of emotion leaked through from her. So gently, so softly, he let a thread of his desire, his longing through to her. He raised his hand and laid it over hers, there against his face, increasing the link slightly. He watched her eyes widen, soften.

"That... Is that you? That warmth? How?" She was puzzled, breathing faster, skin temperature slightly elevated, heart rate up.

"You know that Vulcans have telepathic abilities." She nodded. "And you know that Vulcans do not like to be touched by strangers - or to touch others unnecessarily."

"Yes, that's one of the first things you learn about them in your first year classes."

"There is a reason. There are many receptors in the skin - telepathic receptors. And in the hands... many nerves. Touching someone causes a link between the two people through which emotions can flow." Her eyes moved to her fingers against his cheek, his fingers over hers. Her fingers twitched, but he kept them securely tucked within his. His voice was low now, husky. "I... I have wanted to touch you. To taste your emotions. To... To kiss you." His voice failed.

Her other hand rose so softly to his face. One finger touched his lips, stroked softly across, barely touching. It was like electricity, eliciting small shocks as it moved. Her eyes lifted to his once again. "Then why don't you?"

It was all that he was waiting for.