Commanding a starship that sees plenty of action means leading a rather uncertain life. However, if there's one constant in the entire universe, it's that Jim and Spock are there for each other no matter what--whether it's through Valeris' betrayal or leaving the Enterprise for the final time.

This story begins during The Undiscovered Country and shows just how much Jim and Spock mean to each other behind closed doors.

“He follows you as long as your eyes are closed, but when you turn around to make sure he is there... you will see ashes.” (written for the Old Married Spirk Challenge)

Even the smallest decisions can alter the course of one's life.

The moment passed, the decision made, and Spock turned back to his task. Strangely unnerved, he reached out through the bond and briefly brushed against Jim’s mind. It was warm, even in sadness. The light it cast over his own more stringent mental landscape was beautiful—necessary—and Spock’s breath caught.

After The Voyage Home, Kirk struggles to find his footing back in his relationship with Spock.