Pardon The Way That I Stare

Tea

A little while later, as Alastor was preparing a steaming cup of tea with honey for Lucifer, he heard a knock at the kitchen door. Turning around, he saw Charlie peek her head in, her usual bright smile on her face.

"Morning, Alastor!" she chimed, her voice cheerful as always. She stepped into the kitchen, her eyes scanning the room. "Where's Lucifer? I haven't seen him all morning."

Alastor stirred the tea, giving her a small smile. "Ah, Lucifer won't be joining us today, I'm afraid," he said, his voice calm and steady. "He's feeling a bit under the weather."

Charlie's brow furrowed in concern as she approached the counter. "Oh no, is he okay? What's wrong?"

Alastor placed the tea cup on a tray along with a plate of crackers and turned to face her. "Just a nasty cold," he assured her. "Nothing serious, but he's a little out of commission. I'm making sure he gets plenty of rest."

Charlie sighed, her worry evident. "Poor dad," she said softly. "I hate seeing him sick. Is there anything I can do to help?"

Alastor smiled, appreciating her concern. "I think I've got everything under control for now," he replied. "But I'll let you know if we need anything. For now, I'll be playing nurse."

Charlie giggled at the thought of Alastor doting over Lucifer. "I bet he's hating every minute of being stuck in bed," she said with a knowing smile.

Alastor chuckled. "Oh, you know him well. He's already tried to protest being cared for. But I'm afraid even the King of Hell has to succumb to a bit of pampering now and then."

Charlie smiled warmly at that, feeling reassured. "Well, if he needs anything—or if you need a break—just let me know, okay?"

"I will," Alastor replied, giving her a nod. "Thank you, Charlie."

With that, Alastor picked up the tray and started making his way back upstairs to Lucifer's room, leaving Charlie behind with a light smile still on her face.

As he quietly opened the door to Lucifer's room, he found his partner still bundled up in the blankets, looking as pitiful as ever. His eyes fluttered open when Alastor approached.

"Tea?" Lucifer croaked, his voice still raspy but hopeful.

Alastor set the tray down on the bedside table and helped prop Lucifer up with the pillows. "Tea," he confirmed, handing the cup to him with a gentle smile. "Drink up, dear. It should help soothe that throat of yours."

Lucifer took a careful sip, the warmth of the tea immediately making him feel a little better. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice still strained but grateful.

Alastor sat down beside him, resting a hand on his knee. "Charlie sends her love and well wishes," he added, watching Lucifer take another sip.

Lucifer gave a small, tired smile. "Tell her thanks... I'll be back to my old self soon."

Alastor chuckled softly. "I'll hold you to that." He reached out and gently stroked Lucifer's hair again, watching him sip the tea and relax further into the bed.

Despite the grogginess and discomfort, there was a quiet comfort in the room, the kind that only came from the care and love they shared for each other.