Ruth is a woman Jim knew 15 years ago.

He's very puzzled by her presence on this planet.

He allows her to approach and touch his cheek...

Notice that they do not kiss, ever. He doesn't even hug her.

They sit chastely side by side (not touching) for a chat, but the communicator interrupts...

...in fact, Ruth can barely get a word in edgewise because Kirk keeps talking to people on his communicator.

Finally, Ruth acknowleges that Kirk seems to have more important things to do, so she exits. Kirk lets her.