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Jim had just selected a plate of Salisbury steak and mashed potatoes at the Academy cafeteria and was headed to a table when Bones scooted up to him to join him.

“Did you see that?”

“See what?”

Bone smirked. “Seems like Spock is back from his field trip. And he’s cozying up with Cadet Uhura.”

Jim followed his gaze to see Spock indeed at a table in the cafeteria with Uhura seated beside them.

He laughed. “So?”

Jim found them a seat at a small table fairly close to the cafeteria line. After all he might be still hungry and want something more.

As Bones sat across from him, took that opportunity to eyeball his friend’s plate to see what he’d selected for lunch. Generally Bones was one of those eat your veggies kind of guy, being a doctor after all, so Jim found he rarely picked food off the other man’s plate. Still he was curious.

“At least you covered those vegetables in cheese sauce,” Jim commented. “It saved them.”

“You should eat more veggies, young man,” Bones said, waving his fork at Jim.  “You’re not worried?”

Jim cut off a piece of Salisbury steak. “About?”

“Spock and Uhura. They look a bit cozy.”

Jim laughed and shook his head. “Some people say that about us.”

“What?”

“You and me, Bonesy. That we look a little…close.”

Bones pulled back and grimaced. “That’s gross.”

“Hey!”

“I don’t mean it like that. I mean you’re like my brother from another mother. I don’t think of you like that.”

“Same. And that’s my point. What makes you think those two are any different?”

“Well. I guess you have a point. And being a Vulcan I suppose he wouldn’t be wining and dining you and her at the same time. Or I don’t think so anyway.”

“Not likely, yeah. I think they met at the chess club, too.”

“She plays chess?”

“Why wouldn’t she?”

His friend shrugged. “Just thought that chess club was for dweebs like you and Spock.”

Jim rolled his eyes.

Bones chuckled. “What do you suppose her chess name is?”

“TooStuckUp?” Jim joked. “I’m totally kidding. I only met her once, I don’t really know her.”

“If she really is a close friend of Spock’s you’ll probably have to get to know her.”

“True. And same with you and Spock.”

“Grr.” Bones looked up. “Speak of the devil.”

“Jim. Doctor.”

Jim grinned. “Hiya! You’re back.”

“Indeed. I arrived back from the excursion an hour ago. I was having lunch when I noticed you over here with Doctor McCoy. Do you have other courses for the day?”

“Yep. One more after I finish here. You?”

“I am done for the day but will be taking advisory appointments at my office for an hour. If you are available after your class, perhaps you might meet me at my apartment.”

“Of course, I will. See you in a bit.”

Spock nodded at Bones. “Doctor.”

Bones scowled. “Professor.”

Jim shook his head and smiled as Spock walked away, leaving the cafeteria with Uhura who had waited for him by the exit door.

“Play nice.”

“I’m always nice. Weird she didn’t come with him to say hi.”

“Nah, I’m not bothered by it.”

“Since when did you get so mellow?” Bones demanded.

“I’m maturing.”

“In a pig’s eye.”