Work Text:
Bones wasn’t entirely sure how he’d come across the catnip.
It must’ve been something he’d picked up one time during a stop on Earth, but he supposed how he got it didn’t really matter.
What mattered was the effect it had on their half-Vulcan first officer.
He’d had the catnip in a small pot by his desk when Spock had come in to ask him some question or another. About halfway through their conversation, the Vulcan seemed to almost have difficulty keeping his eyes open, and by the time their conversation was near done, Bones noted that Spock was tired enough to rub at his eyes. When asked, Spock was unsure until he saw the plant, and noted that catnip had a drowsing effect on Vulcans. It was shocking to say the least, but it left Bones thinking about it long after Spock had left to take a short break once Bones made sure he was alright.
Catnip made Vulcans sleepy, and Spock had an infuriating tendency to overwork himself to the point of medical intervention sometimes.
And thus, Bones’ plan was born.
Of course, he wouldn’t use it needlessly, only when he truly felt Spock needed the rest and was being far too stubborn for his own good. Which unfortunately was often. Not even Jim for all his pushing and prodding could get Spock to stop when he was truly invested in one thing or another.
Also, it meant Bones got to see a sleepy Spock, which honestly was far too adorable to be legal in his very professional opinion.
So, Bones set out to make sure he had an ample amount of catnip stored away for such occasions and got permission from the captain to use it in “dire” circumstances. Of course, Jim was more than happy to give Bones permission, his worry for Spock nearly as impressive as his own.
The first few times were met with resistance, and no shortage of protests and snark from the first officer, but Spock could do little else, especially when he was swaying on his feet from the combined effects of the catnip and his own lack of self-care. He’d even let the doctor assist him in walking back to his quarters when particularly exhausted, and Bones relished in the feeling of a soft, sleepy Vulcan cuddling up against him before leaving the Vulcan to sleep.
After that, it kind of became a routine for them. Spock would work late hours, and Bones would come in with the catnip and haul their sleepy first officer away. If he found himself looking forward to dealing with a sleepy Spock, well, no one had to know.
This carried on for several months until one day when Spock came to Bones instead.
Bones looked up from his PADD in concern. “Spock?”
Spock stood by his desk, face as impassive as ever, but Bones noted how the Vulcan wavered ever so slightly on his feet and his eyes seemed to have some difficulty staying open. “Doctor.”
“...Do… you need something?”
Spock hesitated for a moment before speaking again, a bit softer. “I am tired and… wondering if you would accompany me to my quarters.”
Bones raised an eyebrow. “What, really? Why?”
Now Spock looked a little embarrassed, which only confused Bones further.
“My shift is over, and I… I’ve found that I prefer it when you escort me back to my quarters.” He confessed and Bones’ eyebrows shot up.
“What, when I drag you to sleep with the catnip? You like that?”
Spock flushed softly and Bones couldn’t help but think about how cute that looked.
“I don’t particularly find enjoyment with the catnip, but I find that I sleep better when in your… company.” Spock muttered and Bones felt a grin pulling at his lips.
“Well, darlin’, if I didn’t know any better I’d say you were coming on to me.” He drawled and stood up, placing a hand over Spock’s cheek and moving up to gently trace the curve of his pointed ear.
Spock blushed and averted his eyes and Bones smiled.
“I am somewhat unfamiliar with that phrase, but, yes. I do… wish you would not leave after walking with me.”
Bones’ gaze softened and he moved his hand to lightly tip Spock’s face up to his. “Truly? You want me to stay with you?”
Spock nodded, swallowing nervously, and Bones chuckled.
“Can’t say no when you’re lookin’ that cute, now can I?” He said and Spock’s shoulders relaxed slightly in relief.
This time, when Bones took Spock back to his rooms, he didn’t leave, and could openly enjoy the warmth of a sleepy, purring Vulcan snuggled up against his chest.
He smiled, kissing the top of Spock’s head gently as he rested.
Catnip was the best.