[Well, these last few weeks had really been neither one of their faults. Mycroft was on a practically archaic planet that while encouraged space travel, would rather not have electronic equipment running all day. In fact they only used power four hours of the day, so Mycroft had to time his messages carefully.

Tradition also stated that a man in a relationship had to grow a beard, to show that he was not available for mating rituals. He had grown scruff the very next day, and had not a time to get it shaved before he was beamed back aboard, and told to report to sickbay.

Yes, of course, the physical. Then the meetings to discuss with the Captain the trade agreements ... it would be hours before he got Leonard to himself - but at least he would see him before he had to go back on duty. Professionalism first, naturally - ]

[Except when he walks into med-bay, bag over shoulder and when Bones looks at him with that eyebrow raised, and then that bloody Smirk of his. Mycroft gave him a baleful look, before he put the bag down neatly.]

Down, boy. I require a shower but before that, I need to update the Captain on our current diplomatic standing and trade agreements. He needs to tell me how many social gaffes he created whilst I was away. Then you can smirk at me that way.