Jim opened the door to see his older brother, George Samuel Kirk, standing there and wearing a smile as if he hadn’t taken off on Jim all those years ago.

Fortunately Jim had been forewarned of Sam’s imminent arrival.

He stepped back without a word to let Sam in. And just for an awkward moment it appeared Sam was going to hug him and Jim would have to recoil because that was the last thing he wanted. But Jim figured his body language must have given away his revulsion because Sam abruptly aborted the action.

“Mom’s in the living room,” Jim said flatly. “Your bags out there?”

“Yes. I can get them.”

Jim shook his head. “I will.” And he went outside and slammed the front door shut on Sam and Sam’s issues.

Sam had two bags, about the size of duffel bags. According to Jim’s mom, Sam would be staying for a couple of months at least. He was having marital problems with his wife that Jim had never met. Probably never would.

Jim exhaled, watching his cold breath swirl out like mist. He hadn’t put on a jacket and regretted it now. But he wasn’t ready to go back in there and face the new family dynamic.

The door opened behind him and a coat was draped over his shoulders. Arms wrapped around his waist pulling him back against strong, solid muscles.

Jim closed his eyes. “I just need a moment.”

“I know,” Spock said softly.

Jim put his hands on Spock’s hands that held him so tight. Jim smiled as a snowflake fell from above to land on him. The first snow of the season. “Love you.”

“I love you.”

 “Thank you. For my coat. For being here.”

“I’ll always be here, Jim.”