kowaiyoukai

Slow pace still wins. And I like you explanations for both sides: the Vulcan's slower appraisal of their emotions (which will at least make them sure about those emotions once they reach their conclusion - a feat to be envied, really) and Kirk needing to fight his demons (i.e. the deep-seated fear that loving another man is wrong). He clearly has to grow more, yet, than Spock does before anything profound and lasting can happen and I suddenly see the time frame you set with Uhura's ultimatum in a different light. They really need that time.

Your Spock, as always, was heartwarming, starting with his musings that Jim in different in every respect up to your showing just how special Jim is for him by admitting that he missed him and throughout the chess game. Being logical about it is what Spock does, obviously, and yet we cannot help but notice that there are emotions there in the first place that make him have to be logical.
It's also reassuring to hear that 'by the time most Vulcans allowed themselves to submit to an emotion, that emotion was so strong and had been ongoing for so long that it would be illogical to continue denying it'.

Also bonus points for blasé McCoy and wry Scotty and, of course, supporting Chekov!

I keep on loving this :)