Don't Worry About Me
Summary: A very short little scene between Neal and Peter for Caffrey–Burke Day 2022.
A double drabble for the Tumblr hurt/comfort dialogue prompts: "Why didn't you tell me?" and "Get some rest".
This is a sequel to 'Caring Jones'. Peter's there when Neal wakes up following his appendectomy.
Neal opened his eyes, slowly taking in his surroundings.
"Welcome back," Peter said from the chair at the side of the bed.
"Peter? What are you doing here?"
Finding the controls, Neal raised the back of the bed 45 degrees.
"I left the conference when Jones called saying you were about to have an appendectomy."
"He shouldn't have bothered you. I'm fine."
"He needed to call to explain your anklet's deactivation. You might be fine now, but you weren't this morning. When did the pain start? Honestly."
"Last night."
"Before I dropped you home."
Neal nodded.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"It was nothing. I thought it'd pass."
"When it was worse this morning, why didn't you call?"
"You had that conference today. I didn't want to worry you."
"It's way too late for that buddy. I've been worrying about you since the first stupid daredevil stunt you pulled while I was still chasing you."
"Aw, Agent Burke, you care," Neal laughed sleepily and yawned. "I think you love me."
"You better believe it Caffrey." Reaching over to squeeze Neal's shoulder he added, "and I'm not the only one Neal. Now get some rest. I'll be here when you wake-up."