Ch 8
A/N I am so glad Henrik ended up in Leeds in episode 50. I knew he would follow his heart eventually. Makes my story easier in a way so I will continue this explore the future for Henrik and Russ. Late night emotions.
Russ was lying in bed staring at the ceiling. He could not sleep. Things were running around his head. Could he, or should he have said more to Henrik? He supposed the message he put across was clear, no expectations or pressure, but this was Henrik who was emotionally stunted. Russ ruminated over this as he knew there was a reason that Henrik was like this. They had never specifically discussed Henrik's abuse at the hands of Reyhan; but Russ knew about it because it had been in the papers. He would never bring it up, unless Henrik wanted to. Russ just needed to be patient and supportive and show Henrik that love can be good. If he pushed too much he could scare Henrik away.
His thoughts were interrupted by a tap at the door. It was probably Billie, she usually knocks on when Denver won't stop crying. Russ adjusted his pillows and sat up in readiness to take little man... but no the door opened a crack and it was Henrik. "I, ah, sorry I woke you; I can't sleep."
Russ looked at Henrik standing there in a t shirt and boxers. He looked even more tall and awkward than usual, but also vulnerable. Russ opened the covers, "We may as well be insomniacs together."
Henrik climbed into the bed. Russ was surprised that Henrik didn't find this move more difficult but he shifted some pillows and sat in the bed next to Russ. Russ then put the duvet back down.
"So, why can't you sleep?"
Henrik remained sitting and looking forward, "Maybe same reason as you."
Russ made a sound of agreement, "Is there anything you want to discuss?"
Henrik turned to look at Russ, "Not sure what else to say at the moment. I am still trying to unpack everything."
Russ nodded, "Right there with you Henny."
They sat in silence for a few moments, sitting up in bed looking ahead. "I think," Russ paused, "I think Billie has a better understanding of this..." He waves his hand between the two of them, "Than we do."
Henrik pulled a face, "I fear you may be correct."
They both laughed. Henrik looked at Russ, "Comes to something when I have been taking advice from your 16 year old daughter eh."
"Well, she is a woman of the world it seems. I think she has guided us together in our stubbornness."
"Thankfully." Henrik said as he put his hand on Russ' and gave a smile.
Russ looked at the time, it was 4.20 am. Russ knew Henrik had a long drive tomorrow and with everything going on at Holby, Henrik would be needed back there. He looked over and saw Henrik was dozing off. He nudged Henrik to wake him enough to make him more comfortable. Henrik didn't say anything but accepted the gesture. Once Henrik was settled Russ moved his own pillows down to lie flat and, as not to crowd Henrik he turned over to sleep not facing Henrik. Once Russ heard Henrik snoring he allowed himself to sleep.
