Sort of follows my fic "Healing Touch", but is fine on its own

As usual, I own nothing related to the characters, etc.

Alexander paced back and forth in his rooms, pages and slaves trailing after him, confused. He stopped suddenly, causing the page that had been on his heels to run into him.

"Okay, all of you OUT!" Alexander snapped. "You're driving me crazy. I'll send for you if I need you!"

The young men got out of there as quickly as they could, obviously quite relieved.

Alexander scratched his head and frowned. For once in his life, he was completely unsure of what to do and could not seem to make a decision. He dropped down into his chair, a pouty expression on his face.

He had no idea what to do.

His mind was focused on Hephaestion. The man had been working himself nearly to death, despite the injuries he had sustained in their last battle, and Alexander wanted to do something special for him. But what could he do that he hadn't already done? What could he give him that he didn't already have?

He was at a loss. He had been pondering this for days, quite aware that his restlessness and impatience was driving everyone else crazy. Hephaestion hadn't noticed, however. He had been locked in his rooms most of the time, buried in mounds of paperwork and allowing his body to heal. He was very nearly back to normal, fortunately. Alexander gave thanks to the gods that Hephaestion's injuries had not been life threatening and seemed to have healed quite well. Doctor Philip had released him to resume his normal duties.

They were supposed to ride out in about a week, after resting and gathering adequate supplies. They had a long ride ahead of them and he wanted the men fresh and ready to go. Alexander thought most things were in order and felt they would be well prepared. The men would be rested, the horses would be rested…Wait! That's it!

That was the answer! A horse!

Hephaestion had lost his favorite chestnut stallion during their last battle, sustaining most of his injuries after being thrown from the downed animal. To Alexander's knowledge, Hephaestion had not secured another mount.

A smile spread across his face. That was perfect. He would personally choose a horse and gift it to Hephaestion! He was determined to find the best horse he could possibly get. It had to be perfect, a mount truly worthy of his favorite general.

Oh, and new armor! Hephaestion's armor was rather beat up, and his sword had seen better days as well. Perfect! A new war horse, a new sword, and new armor!

Alexander grinned from ear to ear. Hephaestion would love them!

Once he had obtained the items, he had to think of a creative and fun way to present them to Hephaestion. Hephaestion hadn't smiled much lately, between being in pain from his injuries, being buried in paperwork, and losing his favorite horse. Alexander was determined to fix that.

He thought and thought, then a sly grin appeared on his face. He knew exactly what he was going to do.

He set off in search of his perfect gifts with a smile on his face. He couldn't wait to see Hephaestion's reaction.