Pardon The Way That I Stare

Sniffles and Snoozes

Lucifer leaned back against the pillows after a few more sips of tea, his eyes fluttering closed as the warmth from the drink seeped through him. His voice was still raspy, but his words carried a touch of his usual humor. "I feel like death... and not in the fun way."

Alastor chuckled softly, gently brushing a strand of hair from Lucifer's face. "Well, darling, you do look rather adorable for someone who claims to be at death's door."

Lucifer smirked, though it quickly turned into a slight cough. "Don't get used to it. I'm giving you one day of pampering before I reclaim my throne of mischief."

Alastor leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Lucifer's forehead. "I'll take what I can get. But for now, rest. Even the King of Hell needs to heal."

Lucifer sighed, leaning into Alastor's touch. "You're too good to me," he muttered, his eyes heavy with exhaustion.

"I'd say it's the least I can do," Alastor said with a smile, "considering all the trouble you get into. Someone has to take care of you."

Lucifer chuckled, though it came out more like a wheeze. "Lucky me, I guess."

Alastor reached over and placed the tea cup back on the tray before pulling the blankets higher around Lucifer's shoulders. He settled in beside him, leaning back against the headboard, gently guiding Lucifer's head to rest on his chest.

"Get some more sleep," Alastor murmured, stroking Lucifer's hair in soothing motions. "I'll be right here when you wake up."

Lucifer shifted slightly, snuggling closer to Alastor's warmth. "Might need more tea later," he mumbled, already drifting off.

Alastor smiled softly. "I'll make sure there's a fresh pot waiting."

As Lucifer's breathing evened out, Alastor remained still, watching over him. It wasn't often that he got to see Lucifer so vulnerable—usually, his partner was a whirlwind of energy, scheming or teasing, always in control. But in moments like this, Alastor felt the depth of his care for him. Lucifer had wormed his way into his heart in a way that Alastor had never expected, and seeing him this way, needing him, stirred something protective in him.

Time passed quietly, the only sound in the room being the soft breathing of the man in his arms. Eventually, there was another knock on the door.

"Al?" Charlie's voice came through softly. "Is he awake?"

Alastor glanced down at Lucifer, still fast asleep, and quietly got up, making sure not to disturb him. He opened the door just a crack and stepped out into the hallway to speak with Charlie.

"He's resting," Alastor whispered, keeping his voice low. "The tea helped, and I think he's feeling a bit better."

Charlie smiled, though her concern was still evident. "I'm glad. It's so weird seeing him sick."

"I know," Alastor replied softly. "He'll be back to causing chaos soon enough."

Charlie nodded, then glanced toward the door. "Do you need anything? More tea? Soup?"

Alastor shook his head with a smile. "I've got it handled, but thank you. I'll let you know if we need anything."

Charlie gave him a grateful smile. "Okay. I'll check in later. Tell him I love him when he wakes up."

"I will," Alastor promised, watching as Charlie turned to leave. He headed back into the room, quietly closing the door behind him.

Lucifer shifted slightly in his sleep but didn't wake. Alastor resumed his place beside him, his arm wrapping around Lucifer's shoulders as he settled back down.

For now, he would just keep watch, ready with more tea, more comfort—whatever Lucifer needed. After all, taking care of his dear was something he would never tire of.