Don't Leave Me Here - Starker

11

"Would you like me to wake-"

"No!" He gasped, splashing his face with cold water. "Leave him."

Of course Tony was right, he shouldn't have watched that show before bed. No, it didn't scare him, but it certainly gave him the creeps. And he'd had nightmares.

Poor Tony, he'd been woken up twice already by him tonight, Peter didn't want to wake him another time. He could handle this. He was just grateful to not have another panic attack.

"Karen, could you start the coffe pot, please?" He asked her, as he dried his face.

He was exhausted, and his hands would not stop trembling.

"Peter, it's 3:52 in the morning. I would advise against coffee at this hour." She offered kindly.

Peter sighed, sitting down at the island. "I know what time it is, but I cannot go back to bed. Could you please just-"

"Of course, Peter." She replied.

He sighed, resting his head on the counter, while waiting for his coffe to finish brewing.

"Peter, it's ready. I've set the tv in the living room for you as well"

"Thanks Karen." He mumbled, filling his mug and making his way to the couch.

He wrapped his blanket around himself, preparing to stay awake for the next few hours. He needed some time to think about nothing. Do nothing. To just sit and watch tv.

After a few episodes of The Rookie, he was startled by Tony's sleepy figure moving towards him. He said nothing, but maneuvered himself under the blanket. He pressed a kiss to Peter's temple, holding him close.

Tony took Peter's mug, stealing a sip from it.

"I can make you a new one. That one's been sitting for a while now." He offered.

Tony just smiled and shook his head. "No love, you stay right here."

He watched Tony make his way to the kitchen, his eyes stinging with tears again. Peter was tired. Tired of feeling this way, and upset for having dragged Tony into it. He felt helpless.

A new mug was placed in his hands, the smell of fresh coffee pulling him from his thoughts. He smiled at Tony, thankful for his presence.

"You don't need to be upset about this morning. It's not something you can control." Tony whispered, gently brushing his curls. "And you certainly don't need to think you cannot ask me for help. I'm right here, love. Always, for you."

Peter nodded, holding back more tears. He leaned against the older, savoring his comfort. He was so grateful for Tony. He wasn't sure how to put it into words. But his heart knew.

"I love you, Tony." He whispered, glancing upwards.

Tony met his gaze, transfixed by Peter's eyes. He was shocked, but only for a moment. He hadn't expected that from the other right now, but was happy to have heard it. Of course he loved Peter, and was dumb for ever thinking he needed time to make sure.

Tony loved Peter wholeheartedly.

He smiled, gently running his thumb across Peter's cheek. "I love you too."

Peter was sure his heart melted, as Tony's lips met his own. He couldn't help but smile into the kiss, laughing softly as he pulled away.

"So much." Tony mumbled, kissing him once more.

The smile never fell from Peter's lips as they sat on the couch, holding each other close. Not even as he dozed off.

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