it never stays in one place, but it's not a passing phase

"Spock," Jim teased, only it wasn't his usual tender teasing tone, "are you hugging me?"

Spock's arms did not shift.

"No," she replied.

"Oh," said Jim. He felt then simultaneously even more and less tender; acceptable, as clichés go.

Spock continued: "This is far more significant."

"You mean...it's some sort of private Vulcan ritual, not for detached polite conversation?"

"No," said Spock again.

Jim wished so desperately that he could understand.

"You assume that I am always either Vulcan, or Human. Never acting as both."

"Then this is...both?"

"Jim," she rumbled, beyond eloquent. "This is me. My affection."