Uhura and The Ex-Fiance
"Spohkh, I need the week off."
Spock quickly reviewed his mental log file of interactions with and impressions from his mate. His detailed, .0013 seconds analysis did not reveal any physical, mental or situational reasons for her unexpected request.
Nyota read her mate and identified his uncomfortable state of mind as worry.
"Ashayam, there's nothing wrong. It's Jim's birthday in three days. I need to keep an eye on him."
"Keep an eye on him? Why would the Captain require surveillance near his natal day?"
Uhura sighed. An honest response would unbalance her mate.
Spock and Kirk shared many similar experiences, a fact Spock Prime predicted would lead to a legendary partnership if they could survive their away missions. Uhura's clarification would remind Spock of the saddest parallel overshadowing both the young officers' lives.
"Honey -" she almost whispered as she enfolded him in her arms, "Jim's dad died on his birthday. You understand why the day makes him emotional, don't you?"
Grey rolled into Spock's mind - the mental color of anguish and rage over his own mother's death. Sending love, Nyota waited for the grey to recede before speaking.
"I don't want him to be alone. He needs a friend."
Stiffness met her entreaty despite the warm, loving body she virtually glued to his. Calm suffused her mind as the mantra they shared debrided distress.
In time Spock spoke aloud.
"I understand, k'diwa. You will have the time you need."