Hamilton Oneshots and Short Stories!!

41: Hurt/comfort, Washingdad

"Alex," Washington said quietly, trying to wake up the boy who had fallen asleep at his desk.

"'M sleepin'," Alexander slurred, turning his head.

"You will be more comfortable in your bed, son," Washington reasoned.

"Oh. Oh shit," Alexander quickly straightened up. "I have a letter to finish."

"Alexander, you aren't writing no letter while you're this tired. You need rest, son."

"But-"

"Go to bed, Alexander. That's an order from your commander."

Alexander got to his feet, swaying slightly. He felt too weak to carry his own body, exhaustion seeped into his bones.

Washington stepped forward, helping steady him.

He helped him to his tent. Alexander plopped down on his cot, fast asleep by the time Washington turned around.

He decided to sit with Alexander for a few minutes before returning to his work. The boy looked much younger than 17, which made Washington's heart break. So many young soldiers had gotten dragged into this battle. And Alexander was one of the youngest.

A sob cut through his train of thought.

Alexander was thrashing around, quiet sobs escaping his lips.

"Shh, son, wake up," Washington said gently.

He gently shook him. Alexander bolted up, looking around panickedly.

"It's alright, Alex. It's okay," Washington comforted.

Alexander burst out sobbing.

Washington wrapped his arms around him in an embrace, gently rubbing his back as a source of comfort.

"I'm sorry, dad," Alexander sniffled.

He knew that Alexander never called him 'dad' unless it was serious or personal. Or both.

"It's okay, son, it's all okay, don't apologize," Washington reassured him.

As Alexander sniffled in his arms, Washington grimaced. That boy fought as hard in his own head as his soldiers did on the battlefield.

"I'm just so, so tired," Alexander whispered.

"I know, I know," Washington murmured.

Alexander sniffled, releasing Washington and sitting back down on his cot.

"I'm going to try to sleep again," Alexander mumbled.

"Goodnight, son."

Washington got up to leave. Alexander hastily spoke up.

"Dad... could you- could you please stay?"

Washington froze. A small smile tugged on his lips.

"Of course."