Steve woke up slowly, groggily. The couch he'd chosen to sleep on was plush and comfortable, and his body didn't want him to wake up just yet. But it had been a few hours, and he needed to check on Tony.
"Captain Rogers, I believe Mr. Stark's fever has returned." A calm automated voice informed a still very sleepy Steve.
"Gah!" The super soldier nearly jumped out of his skin. "J.A.R.V.I.S?" Steve asked.
"Of course, sir. Who else were you expecting?"
"Don't scare me like that!" Steve commanded, holding a hand over his pounding heart.
"I apologize Captain." The A.I said, sounding less than sorry. "And might I inform you that you sleep rather soundly? I have been trying to wake you for half an hour."
"Sorry." Steve yawned, rubbing the back of his head and padding into Tony's room. The brunette's breathing was shallow and he whined softly in his sleep as Steve placed a gentle hand on his forehead.
"Hey, J.A.R.V.I.S, can you help me find the kitchen. I need a large bowl."
"Certainly, Captain Rogers." The A.I carefully directed Steve to the kitchen and helped him locate a large, ceramic bowl that would work. Steve returned to Tony's room and slipped into the bathroom. He filled the bowl with water and searched around until he found a washcloth.
"The bastard that did this better pray I don't find him." Steve told Tony as he sat down beside him on the bed. "Because there'll be hell to pay if I do." Steve soaked the wash cloth and brushed it over Tony's forehead. The sleeping man sighed and leaned into the cool touch. Steve couldn't help but smile and reach his free hand out to cup Tony's cheek.
"Mmmm." Tony mumbled in his sleep, turning towards the touch as much as his injuries allowed and latching onto Steve's wrist with a surprisingly strong grip, holding his hand in place and using it as a pillow of sorts. Steve chuckled softly and continued to bathe Tony's sweaty forehead, tugging the blanket up to his chin. Tony sleepily nuzzled into Steve's palm with a sigh, and Steve was happy to see the tension and stress slowly fade from the sleeping man's body.
