Shadows of the Heart

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 28: 𝑼𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓

The following morning, sunlight filtered through the hotel curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Pete and Vegas lay entwined in each other's arms, the events of the previous day having left them both happily exhausted.

As the morning wore on, Pete began to feel a heaviness in his head and a soreness in his throat. By the time he stirred awake, he knew something was off. He turned to Vegas, who was already awake and watching him with concern.

"Good morning, beautiful," Vegas said softly, brushing a strand of hair from Pete's forehead. "How are you feeling?"

Pete tried to muster a smile but ended up coughing instead. "I think I might be coming down with something."

Vegas's brow furrowed in worry. "You do feel a bit warm. Let's take it easy today, alright? I'll take care of you."

Pete nodded, feeling a rush of gratitude for Vegas's attentiveness. "Thanks, love."

Vegas kissed Pete's forehead and got up to prepare some tea and toast. As he bustled around the room, Pete watched him with a mixture of affection and desire. Even though he felt lousy, the sight of Vegas's bare chest and the way he moved with such grace stirred something in him.

"Vegas," Pete called softly, his voice a bit hoarse.

Vegas turned, concern evident in his eyes. "What do you need, babe?"

Pete's lips curled into a mischievous smile. "You."

Vegas chuckled and shook his head. "You're not feeling well, Pete. You need rest."

Pete pouted, feeling a bit playful despite his discomfort. "But I feel better when you're close to me."

Vegas walked over to the bed, sitting on the edge and running his fingers through Pete's hair. "You're impossible, you know that?"

Pete leaned into the touch, his eyes half-lidded with a mix of fever and longing. "Only because I love you."

Vegas sighed, torn between his desire to care for Pete and the undeniable chemistry between them. "Alright, but let's take it slow, okay? I don't want you to overexert yourself."

Pete nodded, his eyes sparkling with appreciation. Vegas leaned down and kissed him gently, their lips meeting in a tender, lingering embrace.

Vegas's hands roamed Pete's body with a feather-light touch, careful not to aggravate his illness. Pete responded eagerly, his body arching into Vegas's touch. Despite his sickness, he felt a surge of heat and passion that couldn't be denied.

"Vegas," Pete whispered, his voice a husky plea.

Vegas paused, searching Pete's eyes for any sign of distress. Seeing only desire and love, he continued, his movements slow and deliberate. Their lovemaking was tender and gentle, a dance of intimacy and care that spoke volumes about their connection.

Afterward, Pete lay back against the pillows, his breathing heavy but his heart full. "That was perfect," he murmured, his voice a bit stronger.

Vegas kissed his forehead again, a satisfied smile on his lips. "You always amaze me, Pete. Now, let's get you some more rest."

Pete nodded, feeling a wave of fatigue wash over him. As he drifted off to sleep, he felt Vegas's arms wrap around him, holding him close and keeping him safe.

As the day progressed, Vegas took it upon himself to make sure Pete stayed hydrated. He brought a glass of water to Pete's lips, helping him take small sips. When Pete managed to drink a bit of herbal tea, Vegas smiled, the relief evident in his eyes.

"You're doing great, Pete," Vegas encouraged, brushing a hand through Pete's damp hair. "Just keep drinking and resting."

Pete tried to smile back but ended up coughing instead. Vegas immediately reached for the tissues and gently wiped Pete's mouth, his touch tender and reassuring.

Throughout the day, Vegas continued to check Pete's temperature, his worry growing whenever it spiked too high. He decided to give Pete a sponge bath to help bring the fever down. Vegas filled a basin with lukewarm water and soaked a washcloth, carefully wringing out the excess before wiping down Pete's arms, chest, and forehead.

Pete shivered slightly at the sensation, but Vegas's hands were steady and comforting. "Just relax, love. This will help," Vegas murmured.

Pete's eyes fluttered closed as he surrendered to Vegas's care. The gentle touch and cool water were a balm to his fevered skin. Vegas worked methodically, his movements slow and deliberate, ensuring Pete was as comfortable as possible.

In the evening, Vegas made a simple chicken broth and brought it to Pete in bed. He propped Pete up with pillows and fed him small spoonfuls, his patience unwavering.

"You're spoiling me," Pete said weakly between sips, a faint smile on his lips.

"You deserve it," Vegas replied, his eyes warm with affection. "Just focus on getting better."

As night fell, Pete's fever finally started to break. He felt exhausted but relieved, his body heavy with fatigue. Vegas stayed with him, wrapping his arms around Pete and holding him close.

"You've been amazing," Pete whispered, his voice barely audible.

Vegas kissed the top of Pete's head. "I love you, Pete. I'd do anything for you."

The next morning, Pete woke feeling a bit better. His throat was still sore, but the heaviness in his head had lifted slightly. Vegas was already up, preparing a light breakfast of yogurt and fresh fruit.

"How are you feeling today?" Vegas asked, bringing the tray to the bed.

"Better," Pete replied, his voice still raspy. "Thanks to you."

Vegas smiled and sat down beside him. "Let's keep taking it easy. We'll get you back to your old self in no time."

Pete nodded eagerly, grateful for the care and love Vegas had shown him. As they shared breakfast on the balcony, the fresh air and warm sun felt invigorating.

"You know," Pete said thoughtfully, "I wouldn't have gotten through this without you."

Vegas squeezed his hand. "We're a team, Pete. Always."

Later that morning, they took a slow stroll around the hotel gardens. The vibrant flowers and gentle breeze were a welcome change, and Pete felt his spirits lift. Vegas stayed close, ready to support him if he needed it.

By the time they returned to their room, Pete was pleasantly tired but happy. Vegas drew a warm bath, and they soaked together, the water soothing their muscles.

"You really are amazing," Pete said, resting his head on Vegas's shoulder.

Vegas kissed his forehead. "And you're worth every bit of it."

As the days went on, Pete's strength gradually returned. Vegas continued to care for him, making sure he ate well, stayed hydrated, and got plenty of rest. They spent their evenings watching movies, reading together, and simply enjoying each other's company.

One evening, as they lay in bed, Pete turned to Vegas with a grateful smile. "Thank you for everything. I couldn't have asked for a better partner."

Vegas kissed him gently. "I love you, Pete. And I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

Pete snuggled closer, feeling a profound sense of love and contentment. The ordeal had been challenging, but it had also brought them even closer together. As they drifted off to sleep, Pete knew that with Vegas by his side, he could face anything the future held.