A/N: This is my first Star Trek story, my first (semi) slash, my first story that I'm going to make myself finish. These will come as they pop into my head, but I already have ideas for a few other chapters. I love all reviews, but please no flaming. if you don't like something, like something, or see an error, please review. Without further ado, here is A, for Almost!

A- Almost

Spock contemplated the board. He raised one eyebrow, and silently moved a piece.

"Checkmate, Captain."

Jim groaned, looking up from their now finished game. "How the hell did you do that?" he asked, scanning the positions of pieces trying to figure out how he could have been bested so close to his own victory.

"Simple." Spock pointed out their last two moves, and Kirk slowly understood.

"Damn. Any time I'm even close to thinking about winning, you throw in some move like that!" This had happened many times before, always to Jim's annoyance.

"Perhaps, Jim, you should just accept that I shall typically win 3-D chess matches. To think otherwise would be il-" Spock was cut off by Kirk.

"Illogical, I know." He sighed, running a hand through his hair. Noting Spock's sly glance, he continued "Isn't it illogical to tease, too?" Jim smirked, looking at his friend knowingly.

Spock tilted his head slightly, eyes twinkling with amusement it seemed only Jim could see. "I have to admit, I don't know what teasing you're referring to."

"Like hell you don't, Spock."

They both looked at each other for a moment, not saying anything. Suddenly, Spock broke eye contact, and abruptly stood.

"I should be taking my leave, Captain. I must meditate tonight."

Jim nodded, and raised a hand. "Goodnight, Mr. Spock."

Spock nodded, and without another word, exited Kirk's quarters leaving nothing behind but a small swish of the door.

Jim sighed, and rubbed his face with his hand. He looked at the place where his companion had just sat moments before, and closed his eyes to gather his thoughts.

"Almost. It's always almost with him." Jim whispered to himself, standing up and removing the chess board. While sweeping the pieces into their rightful box, he continued thinking out loud. "Almost a win, almost a smile, almost a-" he stopped, and shook his head.

Kirk moved to his bed. He knew he would soon dream of a time when he almost didn't love someone so much it hurt. When he almost didn't long after his first officer with a pain in his heart. When he almost didn't care.