Fuck, she was beautiful, Bones thought, standing there in the shadows as he shuffled, barefooted toward her. He took her hand in his and laced their fingers together, eyes only on her despite the soft noises coming from Spock and Kirk. He could sense in her a hint of his own worry and wonder, a feeling of being a third wheel, an accessory; he wanted her to know that for him, she was welcome and appreciated.

One hand came to rest lightly on her shoulder as he stood behind her, and kissing the side of her head, he leaned close to her, eyes finally turning to watch Kirk and Spock.