" Here."
Shawn stirred from his dozing, concentration broken from early morning TV He shifted so he could reach the mug easily, grimaced with the pain that accompanied such a simple gesture.
"Thanks man," he said, seeking the TV once more, determined not to see the concern or pity in Hunter's eyes.
He gulped the coffee, craving the caffeine but unsure what he could do with the energy it would supply him. He was couch ridden for at least three days, thus far the only downside to his back surgery, occasional twinges aside. Hunter had volunteered to stay with him for a few days, just until he could move around a bit better, granting him his release from hospital, his care entrusted to the younger man.
An explosion of sweetness burst against Shawn's taste buds and he gagged, spluttered the murky substance back into the cup with a hacking cough.
" You ok?"
Hunter was by his side in an instant, crouched near the sofa in dismay.
" People who put sugar in coffee, deserve to be shot."" muttered Shawn wrinkling his nose in disgust,
" I was just trying to make you a bit sweeter" shrugged Hunter, reaching to take the mug back.
" Your jokes are getting worse" cringed Shawn, gladly relinquishing the vile drink. He watched as Hunter ventured back into the kitchen, undoubtedly to fix him a fresh drink without the sugar.
" Maybe you're getting boring in your old age."
" I'm not old" Shawn snapped indignantly
" Not young either."
" Seriously will you stop with the lameness?"
" Laughter's the best medicine Shawnie. The doctors told me so"
" Shouldn't listen to the quacks Hunter. Besides for laughter to work you'd have to be funny."
The clatter of the spoon rattling in the sink preceded Hunter's return. He handed him the second cup, watched as Shawn took a drink with an exaggerated sigh of relief.
They sat in comfortable silence, engaged in Good Morning America.
" You mind if I use your shower?" Hunter asked breaking the quiet.
"Knock yourself out"
He headed for the hallway in search of towels.
" Hey Hunter?"
He turned.
" Thanks for taking care of me,"
" No problem, the doctors were begging me to take you away" smirked Hunter.
" I hope you drown."