The narrative is part of a series elsewhere, but I thought it would work well as a standalone fic.

In the fic Jim and Spock are bondmates.

Jim gently touches Spock's arm as they pass by an ancient grand piano with a sign indicating anyone may play it as they walk near several shops at Starbase 120. The Enterprise is currently in orbit for a week of shore leave. "Spock, please play that waltz Rayna and I danced to during the Flint encounter."

Spock pauses a hint of surprise flickering across his usually stoic features. "You remembered, Jim," he replies, his tone betraying a touch of unexpected warmth as he approaches the piano and sits down. His long fingers gracefully navigate the keys, and soon, the familiar melody fills the air, transporting them back to that time. "I was wrong to take away your memories of Rayna; you were in so much pain at the time."

Jim sat beside Spock, feeling the weight of their shared history settle between them. "It was a difficult time," he confessed, leaning slightly toward Spock as the music enveloped them, "but hearing it again feels like a healing balm," Jim remembers the gown Rayna was wearing, her blonde hair, and her expressive eyes. He also remembers the lips he kissed.

Spock keeps playing. Although he's aware of his bondmate's emotions, Spock knows deep inside their love for each other is a source of strength.

Jim looks into his bondmate's dark eyes and slightly smiles. "I'm sorry, Spock. I'm an emotional mess today."

"Do not fret, Jim. Your feelings are valid and part of what makes you who you are." Spock said calmly. He continues playing, and a crowd begins to gather, drawn in by the haunting melody. Jim watches the expressions on their faces shift from curiosity to awe, realizing how powerful Spock's playing can be.

"I feel like dancing the waltz with you, Spock. It's too bad you can't do both things at once," Jim remarked with a playful grin.

Spock raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes as he replied, "It is indeed a limitation of my current capabilities, but I must confess that the idea is not entirely unappealing."

"Pardon me, gentlemen. I can play the piano. I've memorized the tune." A young woman pointed to her temple. "It's beautiful."

"It is an old Earth waltz written centuries ago but never published," explained Spock.

"I can play it, please, sir," the woman smiled. "I think your husband wants you to dance with him."

"How did you know?" Jim smiled as he asked the question.

"It's written all over your face." The woman continues smiling, her eyes sparkling with delight as she steps toward the bench, ready to embrace the music and the moment.

"Shall we, Mr. Spock?" Jim tenderly grabs Spock's right hand and pulls him to his feet. "Let's show them how to dance," he says, his voice filled with enthusiasm as the first notes of the soft melody fill the air around them.

Though initially hesitant, Spock felt the warmth of Jim's grip and the infectious joy of the moment, prompting him to move closer and join in the dance. He felt awkward at first among the crowd but gradually relaxed, and Jim's quiet words of encouragement helped him find his rhythm. As they twirled together under the lights, Spock realized that this was not just a dance but a celebration of their bond.

Thanks for reading, and as always, favorites and reviews are appreciated.