Title: It Comes on Slow
Author: Mahtalie
Summary: Being sick is never fun, but it helps having someone you can count on to help you through.
Author's Note: Written for Enkidu's 100-word drabble challenge "It Comes on Slow", posted way late because I have limited computer access (I'm going through serious withdrawals here!). I had two ideas that wouldn't merge together, so I wrote two answers/chapters to the challenge. Hopefully it compensates a bit for them being so late! Other players: Onyx Moonbeam, IheartSam7, Orange Autumn, NC Girl, Nana56, MuffyMorrigan, Mahtalie, SherryDarling, supernaturalsammy67, TCB 0.5, twinchaosblade, PADavis, InSecret, deangirl1, Supernoodle, Vanessa Sgroi, moonlight80, CHAILYN, Dream Painter, Enkidu07. Definitely check out their stuff, because they're a hugely talented group!
It comes on slow, the gentle consciousness that follows a deep, healing sleep. Awareness of self, for the first time in days, precludes the dull ache of heavy limbs and joints stiff from lack of real use. An experimental breath rattles in his ribcage and he squeezes his eyes shut tighter, holds his breath, sweat beading his forehead, praying for a reprieve from the burning bands that have wrapped around his chest.
The warm hand, gentle and firm, works soothing circles across his back, the only constant through endless dark hours and delirious nightmares. He relaxes, and lets himself drift.
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