McCoy could see the sadness in Jim's eyes as he gazed towards Spock. Spock had confided in him instead of Jim, and that certainly must have hurt Jim's ego. It was so apparent that there was much tension in the room they occupied. Communication was the key, and they both had not spoken enough about how this relationship would effect them. They truly needed time to themselves, A time to reflect and grow closer. McCoy was glad he had given Spock time away from his duties. And as for Jim, he needed time too. If he didn't see it then he needed more help than Spock did.

Spock went near Jim, but they didn't embrace. Spock could not look at Jim, and kept his head down low. McCoy seeing this had never witnessed Spock being so submissive. Following him, like a slave would his master, without any conscious thought. What kind of power did Jim have in this relationship? And to what means would Jim break Spock without meaning to?

"Jim, I was wondering when you'd show. Spock and I were having a nice talk." Doctor McCoy smiled in Spock's direction, hoping he'd acknowledge what he had said to be the truth, but Spock remained mute.

"Is that true Spock? Did you get a chance to talk with the good doctor?" Kirk asked concerned.

Spock's head rose swiftly and he spoke harshly.

"You can both cease treating me like a child." Spock's raised voice surprised them both.

"I can assure you Spock, that isn't what we were doing, right Jim?" McCoy looked in Jim's direction for support.

"Stop patronizing me Doctor, I know that tone of voice. I am having difficulty sleeping, and have been having a few episodes I can't recall. But, to patronize me, to treat me as if I am incompetent in understanding what I am going through is undignified and insulting." Spock's voice rose even more.

Spock moved away from the doctor and the captain.

"Spock, didn't you hear what I said earlier. I love you. Why can't you let me in?"

"Jim, I...I cannot." Spock spoke, his words heavy with sorrow.

Before McCoy could say something, Spock had moved with such speed, he left sickbay moments later.

"Spock, wait!" Jim shouted to his friend, but all he had was an empty space where Spock was moments before.

Jim was about to leave, when a strong arm prevented him.

"Jim, let him breathe a little. He is going through so much right now. He needs time more than anything else."

"He can have all the time he needs. I just wish he'd let me help him. I love him so much Bones. I never thought I could love someone so deeply, as I do with Spock. He's everything to me."

"I am sure he is. I gave him something to rest. He's off duty for a few days. Just until he has a decent sleep."

"Good. What did you learn?" Jim asked with concern.

"I can't tell you, Jim. It's between myself and Spock. If he feels more comfortable, then perh..."

"I can't believe this. I suggested Spock, to go and see you. And you can't tell me what is wrong with him."

"Jim, you know about doctor/patient confidentiality. I can't tell you what has been disc.."

"Fine. Keep it to yourself. I need to speak with Spock. He has to understand, that he needs me. That I am there for him."

"Jim, I think he needs time to himself."

"Your opinion doctor, not mine." Jim replied, his voice harsh.

Jim began to walk towards the doors of sickbay.

"Where are you going?"

"Where else? I need him Bones. I need him."

And those last words were uttered in sickbay, as McCoy was left alone with his thoughts.