For Pairing the Character (PercyKingsley)
Writing Club, Count Your Buttons: raw
"Shouldn't you be asleep?"
Percy glances up at the familiar deep voice. He tries to offer Kingsley a smile, but it feels more like a grimace. With a groan, he sips his coffee. "Can't sleep."
His lover sits across from him, a frown etched on face. His dark eyes focus on the coffee mug. "Caffeine doesn't help," he says gently. "I thought you were taking a break from work."
Percy winces. Kingsley's words aren't cruel, but they remind him of his shortcomings.
He'd been so focused on his own ambition that he'd neglected his family. Though that's in the past now and his family has forgiven him, the wounds are still raw and stinging. Their love cannot erase his sins.
It's his fault that Fred is dead. His fallen brother still haunts his dreams, and he cannot allow himself to close his eyes. Fred is always there, laughing and smiling, and Percy is afraid he'll go mad from the constant reminder.
"It's not work," he says at last. "I can't stand the dreams."
Kingsley reaches across the table, taking Percy gently by the hand. It amazes him how that familiar touch manages to calm his nerves and silence his demons. "We're all haunted," he says quietly. "You have to sleep, Percy."
"The nightmares—"
"Can't hurt you," his lover interrupts, his thumb brushing gently over Percy's knuckles. "Besides, I'm by your side. I'll be there when the bad dreams come."
Percy turns his gaze to his mug, swallowing dryly. He can't remember the last time he's allowed himself to sleep since the war finally ended. Mostly, he's just pushed himself to stay awake until his body and mind finally crash. The thought of the nightmares terrify, but Kingsley's hand is so warm and secure. It would be so easy to give in, to let himself melt into that familiar touch. Kingsley will chase the nightmares away, and, if he can't, he will be there to hold Percy until he feels okay again.
Percy pushes the mug away, nodding. "Can we… Can we go to bed?" he asks.
Kingsley climbs to his feet and helps Percy up, wrapping him into a warm hug. "Come on," he says softly. "Bedtime."
And Percy has been so afraid to sleep for so long. The thought still scares the hell out of him, but he smiles. Kingsley will be beside him; everything will be okay.