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At the end of his first day as Captain, all James T. Kirk wanted was a beer. He
got on the lift, planning on grabbing Bones and maybe even Scotty. Spock joined
him, slipping inside just before the door closed.
At seeing Spock, Jim could feel his face brighten and a smile pull at his lips.
He raised a hand and placed it on the Vulcan's shoulder – a small, affectionate
gesture on Jim's part. He gave Spock an amiable squeeze, grinning at him;
feeling like this day was the beginning of the greatest adventure of their
lives.
The feel of Jim's hand on him was such a casual, friendly touch. Why should it
bring such an odd sensation? Spock shuddered, glancing over at Jim's pale
fingers resting upon him. Jim noticed the look and removed his hand, his bright
smile faltering, but only for a moment.
"Sorry – don't like to be touched I guess," Jim said, as if making a mental
note. He quickly let go Spock's reaction and the way it made him feel. Spock
turned to face Jim as if to speak, but Jim went first.
"Well, listen. Bones and me and Scotty are all going to get a drink. Sort of
celebrate and all that. I don't know if that's your thing, but..."
The lift door opened. Spock promptly closed them again, holding the button so
they would not open again. With his free hand, he placed it on Jim's shoulder,
disproving Kirk's previous assumption about Spock and touching. On the contrary,
he liked being touched very much.
"I'm afraid Nyota and I have plans for this evening, but I would very much like
to congratulate you. I'm very grateful already for your enlightenment." His dark
eyes softened and a small smile played at the corners of his lips. "I have much
to learn from you. Serving under your command will be my honor."
Lulled by Spock's tone and sincerity, Jim's smile was back and brighter than
ever.
"Spock," he started, but suddenly, he had no words. Standing there, smiling like
an idiot, he was at a loss for how to convey how he was feeling. Finally, after
a deep breath, he slid his hand over Spock's and found his tongue.
"Spock, we have much to learn from each other," he finally said in a soft voice.
He pulled his hand away and Spock released the lift button, the door opening
with a soft whoosh. They stood there facing one another before Jim caught
himself. Blushing, he stepped out and Spock followed, but stopped, letting Jim
move ahead down the hall toward Bones' lab. After a few steps, Jim turned and
gave Spock a small wave.
"See you tomorrow," he called, and then turned again, heading off. Spock stood
there, watching for a moment before looking away. Feeling a bit disoriented
after realizing he was not where he intended to be, he pressed the lift button
again. He'd never felt the emotion before, but he was sure it must be regret.
He'd thought for one moment, he might follow Jim, but it was against his nature
to do that. Reluctantly, he got back inside the lift and pressed the button,
preparing for his evening with Nyota.