The crowd that gathered for the grand event had started to diminish. Many were now leaving to continue to celebrate at various bars and some well known establishments. McCoy, and the friends that Jim had served briefly under his command, were sure to throw him one hell of a party. But, for Jim, all he wanted was to head back to his dorm. He wanted to shower, eat something and just crash. He was exhausted, and his head was still giving him problems. Perhaps, he could escape before his dear friend put his plan into action. But, that was not the case, for there he was, cheerful as ever, blocking his escape.
"Everything is all set, Jim. I arranged to have those girls you were eyeing last week. They are going to be so thrilled to see you there." McCoy's voice was beyond ecstatic.
"Ah Bones. I am really tired. Rain check okay. I just want to go and sleep. Feeling a headache coming on." Jim replied hoping he'd get through to his friend.
"You kidding me right?ﾠﾠNo way you are gonna go to bed, when there is a party in your honor."
"I know you mean well, but I just can't deal with another crowd. I need some quiet time, please Bones. You understand right?"
"No, I don't understand. And this headache, is it the same one you've had since the Nero thing?"
"Yep, pretty much. It's not the it hurts, it's more like a buzzing sensation. Must have hit my head or something."
"Well, maybe it's more serious than you think. I should take a look at it."
"I'm okay for now Bones. Later, you can give me a once over. You'll explain to them that I'm a bit under the weather and can't make it."
"Fine. But you owe me. It won't be the same, you not being there."
"You'll manage, and hey, you get the girls to yourself." Jim replied back trying to leave McCoy's presence.
McCoy replied out loud as he saw Jim scurry away.
"They don't want me kid, they want you."
"You'll manage Bones. I have to go."
"What the hell is going on with you Jim." McCoy asked him concerned.
Jim pretty much ran as fast as he could to escape everyone he came across, and then not paying attention to where he was going, he fell hard against a man who he did not see. The man still was standing while he was flat on his back. He was about to get up and apologize, when the man reached out with his hand.
"It seems you are in a hurry." the older man spoke.
Jim stayed there dumbfounded to see his old friend.
"Spock. I can't believe it's you." Jim smiled and took the man's hand, feeling the warmth there.
"It would be better if you would address me in public as Sepik. We would not want anyone to know that there are two Spock's roaming about."
"Of course, Sepik. It is nice to see you old friend."
"I am also pleased. I saw you a moment ago. Your father would have been proud."
"Thanks. I was hoping you were watching. I can't believe things have gone as they have."
"Many new adventures await you Jim."
"I think you right."
Jim smiled, and Spock actually smiled too. And Jim was lost in that smile, and those eyes.
Time stood still.
The headache he had a moment ago, was now gone.