Two weeks ago, things were so different. Being here, playing in the water with an affectionate Kirk like this would have been unimaginable. A fantasy, maybe, but definitely outside the realm of reality.

But now? After the last twenty-four hours, McCoy was willing to go on some faith that anything was possible.

Wrapping his arms around Kirk, he pulled him closer so they could sit together, Kirk's back to Bones' chest, Bones resting his chin on Kirk's shoulder. "We should come back one day," he whispered in his ear.

It was as close to vocalizing what he felt as he was gonna get, but Bones thought that in light of the last few days, Kirk might allow him to get away with it.