Taking a Sick Day
Summary: Neal calls in sick.
A double drabble set anytime in the series when there was tension between Neal and Peter.
For the Tumblr Sicktember 2022 prompt Alt. 4. Taking a Sick Day
Neal felt like death warmed over as he dragged himself through his morning routine. Checking his final appearance, he thought he looked it too. Given the current tension between them, he knew Peter wouldn't believe him if he called in sick. He turned towards the door and was overcome with a bout of vertigo so strong it had him crashing to his knees. Taking out his phone, he hit speed dial 1.
"Peter, I'm taking a sick day." Neal didn't bother disconnecting or waiting for a response before dropping the phone. He'd just lie here on the floor for a few minutes till the dizziness passed.
Twenty minutes later, he was still on the floor when he felt someone gently, but with increasing urgency, shaking his shoulder. Slowly his fuzzy brain cleared and he recognised Peter's voice.
"C'mon Buddy, you can do it. Open your eyes. That's it."
"Peter? What are you doing here?"
"You're taking a sick day and I'm taking the day off to care for you."
"Why would you do that?"
Helping Neal up, Peter responded, "Because Neal, despite our differences, I'm still your friend and you're still family to me. It's what friends and family do."