[The pair decide to simply manifest from the sidewalk outside the hospital door, to the apartment. But, the journey leaves the weakened Eric a little dizzy. When they arrive, Eric sways on his feet and grips Alan's shoulder.]
[He tightens his hold on Eric. Alan stills for a moment to adjust his bearings, still he found that method of travel a bit disorienting. He moves and eases Eric down onto the couch with care.]
The bedroom is a bit much to try for right now. Just relax here a while. At least you got to come home where I get to be the one to care for you.
[Eric shifts his shoulders, making himself comfortable on the couch. It feels good, and the familiar sight and smells of the apartment, as well as Alan's presence, makes him relax.]
I'll tell you what, let's take turn. [He chuckles.]
[He sighed softly at Eric and shook his head reaching to ruffle his hair lovingly.]
Take turns? Actually, I thought that was what we were doing? This is pay back from the universe for all those times you've had to take care of me. I get to fuss over you now.
[And he's glad for that chuckle and for being able to bring Eric home - finally. He'll help Eric get comfortable, get him out of his shoes at the very least.]
[He had to admit tea did sound really good. Tea with some toast with a bit of honey or maybe hot chocolate rather than tea. But first he'll go get a blanket or Eric, bringing in the books from beside the bed as well. After a minute or two he's back and covering Eric gently with the blanket.]
Here now. Just stay here nice and warm. I'll bring you tea and toast in few minutes.
[And then he's gone into the kitchen to hunt down the bread and everything else he needs.]
[It's a bit later but Alan comes from the kitchen with two mugs a plate carefully balanced on one of the mugs. He moves to settle down next to Eric holding out the mug of green tea.]
Think nothing of it, you do things like this for me all the time. A blanket and snack is hardly the same thing as making you carry books and sometimes me around. I put a bit of honey on the toast
Shouldn't I know you? We've been together for years, Eric. It's only natural that I learn things about you and I'm the quiet kind that watches so it was really easy to pick up little details.
[He settled back sipping at his hot chocolate. His eyes closed and he sighed in bliss.]
I'm just glad to get you back home. A couple days back home and everything will be back to normal, I'm sure of it.
I'm glad you're home too. It was weird leave the apartment and all of that.
[He gestures a hand in an all encompassing motion the time away from what had become home, away from Eric. Not being able to talk to him and worrying about where the other was and if he was safe. He blushed glancing down into his drink.]
Don't thank me for just doing what comes naturally.
[There is a lot he wants to say... a lot. The thought that Alan nearly had an attack frightens him, but the fact that it was nearly and not completely is good. He sets the tea aside and puts his hand on Alan's cheek.
Eric knows he's not in danger. He knows Alan still could be. IT's different. But, pointing that out seems on the verge of cruel.]
Alan just.. don't forget to take care of yourself too, all right?
[He knows what Eric's holding back. It's not so hard to know given what they were talking about. He turned at that setting everything aside. He leaned into the touch and scooted closer.]
I do take care of myself. I just was worried and scared. I can't control that. I can't control what might happen and what makes me feel enough to to trigger an attack.
You did what you thought was best. I can't be mad at you for that. You always seem to do everything with my best interest in mind.
[He closes his eyes and moves sliding himself easily onto Eric's lap, his left hand coming up to touch his cheek, his right arm wrapping around his neck.]
Just next time tell me and let me be there or text me on the network if you're afraid you'll infect me, okay?
Page 3 of 5