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It was nearly midnight when Jim sighed, leaned back in his chair, and looked regretful.

“So we’re still tied at this point. Two games for you and two for me. And it’s really late. I have to go. I have an early class.”

Spock found himself wanting to ask the cadet to stay, but he was well aware he should not. Though Jim was not his student and there were no regulations establishing more than friendship between them, it was still early in their interactions. He’d only met Jim earlier that day, which seemed odd now, as Spock felt as though they’d known each other for years.

Most illogical.

So as Jim rose, Spock did not make either an objection or a suggestion otherwise. He didn’t want to see Jim leave but he was forced to accept it.

Jim smiled at him as they approached the door to leave Spock’s apartment. The Human had an engaging smile that Spock, unfortunately, did find rather distracting.

“I had a really great time, Spock. Thank you for the matches and the dinner.”

“I enjoyed your company as well.”

But then Jim opened the door, called goodbye, and walked away.

Spock never even allowed himself to get to the point where he requested to see Jim again and he found that irritating about himself.

He closed the door and leaned against it, feeling as though he’d failed some test.

But just as he started to step away there was a soft knock on the door.

Spock’s heart picked up speed and he opened the door. Jim stood there with a half-smile on his face.

“Listen, it’s dark and windy out there and I really don’t want to walk all the way back to my dorm right now. Can I just sleep on your couch?”

Spock just stood back so Jim could reenter his apartment, and he closed and locked the door.

“Let me get you a sheet, blanket, and pillow.”

Jim’s smile became a full one. “Thanks. I appreciate it.”