Natasha was definitely sick. You noticed in the morning, but you were wise enough now not to point it out.
When she could barely keep her eyes open during lunch, Natasha finally admitted that she had a headache.
You rubbed small circles on Natasha's back, filled with quiet concern as her shoulders hunched forward with discomfort.
You didn't correct her, but you knew it wasn't just a headache.
She did her best to finish her plate of food, looking miserable with every bite.
It was hard to watch Natasha's obvious distaste, it was intolerable to watch her suffer through it.
Natasha could push anything too far.
"Just leave it, love." You murmured at last, leaning forward to press a kiss to her forehead. "Maybe, you'll feel hungry later."
Natasha's skin was noticeably warm against your lips. Her eyes closed heavily at your touch.
She sagged slightly with the relief of quitting the meal.
Worry simmered inside you, you hadn't expected her to give in so readily. You were uncomfortably aware that it was impossible to know how much pain Natasha was hiding.
It was her job to hide it. It was also her nature.
You pressed another kiss to her hair as you stood up to collect her plate.
For a long moment, Natasha's head rested heavily against your front.
Your fingers brushed through her hair instinctively. She let out a contented sigh as you massaged the side of her head.
"Maybe I need to go to bed." She admitted at last, in a hoarse voice.
"Okay." You agreed readily, not missing the way Natasha's eyes were reluctant to stay open now.
Your brow furrowed when you watched her gingerly get to her feet.
"Want company?" You tried gently, not liking the idea of leaving her alone.
Natasha shook her head immediately.
"I'm already ruining your day." She answered in a tight voice, eyes crinkling with pain as she forced them open to meet your gaze.
You didn't push. She was in too much pain for an argument.
"Sleep well." You murmured as she left the room.
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You managed to wait out an hour.
Natasha was usually a light sleeper, but still you decided it was worth the risk of waking her.
Natasha's need to appear fine had only ever made your worry stronger.
