Prompt: Kirk - I got ya.
Best Man
″Thank you, Ambassador.″ Jim walked to the center of the room as Ambassadors Sarek returned to his place near his son and new daughter-in-law. ″Well, now that the family members are done with their most-excellent speeches, I guess it's time for the best man's speech, and wouldn't you know it, that would be me.″ Jim' smile grew at the groans and laughter that swept the room. A number of guests were clearly expecting a toast more resembling a roast than wishes for a bright future.
He turned his smile on the newly wedded couple and noted Spock's lips pressed into a tight line and Uhura's wide eyes. Yup, definitely rethinking their decision to allow him in their wedding, he'd bet. Jim turned back to address the entire room.
″I know you all expect me to comment on the groom's bravery,″ Jim grinned as a chuckles spread throughout the room and he caught more than one pair of eyes rolling towards the ceiling. ″Or the bride's patience.″ Jim noted even Uhura's lips had twitched at that. ″And I could tell you about the days that I met each of them, under less-than-ideal circumstances, both, I must say.″
Jim paused and let his smile soften a bit, become less showy and more reflective of his true feelings of the day. ″Instead, I figured I'd keep it simple and tell you why I am so happy today. Both Spock and Nyota – yes, I said it, I warned you I would – are people I regard very highly. They are intelligent, resourceful, loyal, and strong members of my crew. They work hard and aren't afraid to tell me the truth, even when I don't particularly want to hear it, and don't back down from a fight when it's important. They've saved lives, including mine a time or three... dozen, forged peace on warring worlds, fought off space pirates, and made contact with brand new species. They have also risen to every challenge they've faced.″
Jim looked over at two of his best friends again, this time seeing the hands they'd clasped together, fingers entwined. ″These are traits that will also translate well towards building their lives together, as well as for the expected marital spats and fireworks to come. I wish you both the best.″
The gathered crowd clapped as Jim walked towards his friends, opening the floor up for whomever wanted to embarrass or laud the couple next.
″I told you not to worry,″ Jim said as he stepped into Uhura's tearful embrace. ″I got ya.″ Uhura just sniffled and squeezed him tightly before releasing him with a kiss to the cheek.
″Indeed, Captain. You do.″ Spock replied, and them stoically submitted to a firm Jim Kirk slap on the shoulder.