Last flash of August already!

“You’re off duty for now if you want to stay,” Jim informed his first officer. He put his hand on Spock’s shoulder as they both looked down on an unconscious Uhura. “Bones says she’ll all right.”

“Yes.”

He smiled faintly and squeezed Spock’s arm and then made his way out of the medbay. He was exhausted really but instead of making his way to his cabin immediately, Jim found himself heading to Ten Forward.

Only Scotty was there, standing behind the small bar, and he greeted Jim cheerfully.

“What’ll you have, Captain?”

“Something strong.”

Scotty poured him scotch. “I hear Nyota’s going to be all right.”

Jim took a gulp of the liquor. “Yeah. But Harris wasn’t so lucky.”

“Aye, I heard. Poor lad.”

Jim sighed.  “It never gets easier. I’m haunted by the faces of those we’ve lost.”

“You gotta let it go somewhat, laddie. But I do know that’s part of what makes you such a good captain.”

Jim smiled. “Maybe. Anyway.” He stood. “Thanks for the drink. I’m exhausted so I’m going to bed.’

“Night, Captain. I’ll be closing up here too.”

Jim had fallen asleep curled up on his sofa with a book when his cabin door opened and in walked Spock.

He rubbed his eyes. “Hey. I didn’t expect you.”

“I do live here.”

Jim laughed. “I know.”

Spock came to the sofa and sat down, pulling Jim into his arms. “Why did you not tell me of your aunt’s passing?”

Jim sighed against Spock. “You head other things on your mind. How’d you know?”

“I stopped by while you were out and saw the message from your mother. I am sorry, Jim. Please do not attempt to hide what concerns you from me.”

“I would have told you eventually,” Jim assured him. “She was just…she was really nice to me when I was a kid, you know. When others weren’t. She’d crochet things for me. She once crocheted a dragon.”

“She sounds remarkable and I am glad she was there for you when others weren’t.”

“How’s Uhura? I thought you’d stay.”

“There is no need. She woke briefly but she is sleeping now. My place is here.” He placed his hand on Jim’s face. “You need sleep also, ashaya.”

“I do, yeah.” He yawned.

“The mission still troubles you.”

“Can’t help it. We almost lost two crew members. We did lose one. As Scotty has pointed out, we’re supposed to be explorers.”

“We are but sometimes circumstances during exploration turn violent even though we would rather they do not. We must be prepared for all eventualities.”

“I know. I don’t have to like it though.”

“No,” Spock agreed. “Come and rest.” He tugged Jim off the sofa and over to the bed.

“Will you sleep with me when you’re done meditating? Just to sleep, of course.” He yawned again. “Though I’m never opposed to the other.”

He felt Spock’s amusement through their bond.

“Ine the morning before duty.”

Jim smiled and kissed him. “You’re on.”