Chapter Text
The alarm goes off and Jim wakes up, immediately telling the computer to turn it off. He stares up at the ceiling for a few minutes. Trying to find the motivation to get out of bed. Its all he can do to not just lay there and give up. Then he forces himself out of bed. Walking on autopilot, he showers, gets dressed, and walks to the bridge. He doesn’t have the time for breakfast today, having layed in bed longer than he should have.
Its his schedule now. Has been for the past few months.
He enters the bridge, grinning like usual. Chekov announces his arrival. He shoots a playfully flirty line at Uhura and she rolls her eyes, trying to hide her smile. He avoids looking at Spock’s station.
The shift goes as usual. Nothing exciting. He wishes something would happen. Anything to take away from the painful tension that appears any time he and Spock need to interact.
Jim walks back to his quarters alone. He rarely goes to the mess hall anymore, opting to use the one in his quarters, whenever he finds the will to actually eat.
He had been in there only a few minutes before the computer announces someone requesting access. “Enter,” he calls out.
Spock walks in.
“Can I do something for you, Commander?” Jim asks.
“I have noticed that your efficiency has dropped thirteen percent in the past three point four months,” Spock responds, “I wished to voice my displeasure.”
Jim grits his teeth. “Is that all?”
“No, sir. You have also been socializing with the crew less. This has resulted in a drop in crew morale, affecting the efficiency of their work as well.”
“Noted. You’re dismissed.” Jim forces out. Spock doesn't make a move to leave, his eyes boring into Jims. “What? Is there something else you’d like to say about how incompetent I am?” Jim snaps.
“No, sir.” Spock walks out.
Jim slowly gets out of his chair. He stumbles a few steps, and then collapses on his bed, tears falling silently down his cheeks.