Spock stared in dawning horror at the boot-shaped bruise on Jim’s abdomen just above his pelvis. His gaze rose from the bruise to Jim’s face.

“Who has done this?”

“Spock—”

“That was quite clearly done by someone. You cannot pretend you injured yourself. I want a name.”

Jim nodded and exhaled, lowering is uniform to once more cover the bruise.

“I also want to take you to the hospital for medical attention.” Spock put his fingers on Jim’s wrist, but just as a light touch.

“I saw my friend, Leonard McCoy. He’s a doctor.”

Spock narrowed his eyes. “And what did he say about that?”

Jim took his wrist away. “That’s not fair.”

“You are in a relationship with a touch telepath. Some things you should get used to.”

“How am I to have any secrets?”

“Secrets pertaining to an injury of your person are not acceptable, Jim. Were the situation reversed you would not desire for me to hide an injury or illness from you. There is no need to protect the abuser who has done this to you.”

Jim sighed. “I know. And no Bones didn’t know about this. Just the scrape to me knee.”

“What happened?”

“One of those giant assholes from that bar in Riverside spotted me on campus. I never saw him before he stuck his foot out and tripped me. Tore up my knee, which Bones fixed. While I was lying on the ground, he came up to me and stomped on my stomach with his boot. Then he left. Hurt like hell too. But I’m fine.”

“You are not fine and we are going to contact your doctor friend to examine you right now.”

“Spock—”

“If you prefer, we can take you to the emergency room.”

Jim closed his mouth.

“That is what I thought. After the doctor examines you and assures me of your recovery I will seek out the giant asshole and see that he is expelled.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“In fact, I do. His name?”

“I think that one’s name was Ben Owens.”

Spock nodded. “Very well. Contact Doctor McCoy please.”

“Okay.” Jim reached for Spock’s hand and squeezed it. “I’m okay.”

“I prefer to get a medical opinion.” Spock squeezed his hand. “I do not like bullies.”