blue_bridgerton275 prompted "Don't know if it's a prompt, cause maybe you already have it planned for later, but would love to read a chapter where Jackson wants to ask Mark to co-sleep/accompany him while he sleeps (because of his nightmares and all that) but doesn't know how without sounding too "clingy""

Combining with the much requested timeout chapter.

The blankets are adjusted around Mark just so. The heat blasts through the vents at the right temperature. Not too hot, but enough to keep him cozy and warm beneath his cocoon. The pillows are adjusted in a way that supports his neck and back. Soft rain pelts the windows, adding a soothing ambiance to the dark room. It should be the perfect recipe to fall back asleep.

Except he has to pee.

Mark tries to ignore it for a bit. He clamps his eyes shut and snuggles up further beneath the blankets. The pressure only increases.

He's getting old. In college, he managed to sleep through anything. He could put back a 12-pack and not need to use the bathroom until morning. Now, one cup of tea before bed has wrecked his bladder.

Jackson has it easy.

Mark sighs, reluctantly pushing off the blankets. There's no way he's going to get those on in the same position. He glances at the clock. Nearly midnight. At least he has another few hours until he has to get up for work.

He hesitates. When his feet hit the floor, they'll collide with the freezing floor. Maybe it's time to invest in a pair of slippers.

"Quit your whining," he mumbles to himself.

Mark gets off the bed, but he doesn't hit the floor. Instead, his foot collides with a different surface. Definitely not the floor.

"Ow!"

Mark blinks a few times. He steps over the figure and turns on the bedside lamp. Once he blinks his eyes to adjust to the light, he finds Jackson sprawled across the floor. He's wearing his flannel pajamas with a little teddy bear on the pocket. Hank is nestled in his arms. A discarded pacifier clipped to his chest. Jackson's eyes are wide. A slight whimper comes through his pouty lips.

"Jack?" Mark whispers, sleep still tugging at his eyes. He yawns a little. "Ducky, what are you doing on the floor?"

Jackson shrugs. "Dunno," he mumbles.

Mark glances back at the bathroom. As much as he'd like to sort out this problem right away, nature calls. He bends down and lifts Jackson into his arms. Once he's lowered on the bed, he pulls a blanket over him.

"I'll be right back," he promises. "Just let me pee."

He dashes into the bathroom and is quick about it. Once he's washed his hands, he heads back into the bedroom. Jackson is getting out of the bed. Mark quickly ushers him back in and sits beside him. Jackson frowns.

"Sorry," he mumbles.

"What were you doing on the floor?" Jackson shrugs. "No, no. None of that. Use your words. Is there something wrong with your bed?"

"Nuh uh."

"Did your diaper leak?" Mark discreetly feels, but he's dry. "That's out. So, what could it be?"

"I'll go back," Jackson says, trying to get up again. Mark gently pushes down on his shoulders. Jackson whines. "Mark."

"No, you were clearly sleeping on my floor for a reason. So, we're going to talk about it."

"It's late," Jackson protests. "We need sleep."

"And we will. Once you talk to me." Mark strokes the back of his neck. "You know I'm not letting up, Ducky."

Jackson bites his lip. He tugs on Hank's ear. Jackson observes him, trying to tell what space he's in. He's pouting like a little boy. Yet, there's something serious about his eyes. Maybe he's caught somewhere in the middle.

"Scary," Jackson offers.

"What's scary? Your room?"

Jackson shakes his head. "Didn't want to be alone. I…I had a bad dream."

"Ah." Mark nods. "Do you want to talk about it?"

"Just…camp." Jackson doesn't elaborate. Mark is sure he's supposed to push him too, but Jackson looks upset enough. "Couldn't sleep."

"You should've woken me up," Mark tells him. He casts a loving gaze into his eyes.

"Didn't want to bother you. I would've been fine," Jackson insists. His voice sounds somehow both very young and yet mature at the same time. "I have before."

Mark arches a brow. "Before?"

Jackson squirms a little. He rubs Hank's stomach. "Sometimes I can't sleep. So, I lay on your floor. I get up before you do."

Mark's mouth drops open. How did he not notice? Guilt builds up inside of him. How many nights has Jackson slept on his cold, hard floor? In the middle of winter in Seattle no less. Mark didn't notice a blanket or anything.

"Buddy, you should've told me." Mark tries to keep his voice even. Even the slight wrong octave could have Jackson thinking he's mad at him. It'll undo all their work. "You know you can tell me anything."

"Didn't want to wake you up." Jackson shrugs. "Not so bad."

"Not so bad? The floor can't be good for your poor back. Not to mention, weren't you cold?"

Jackson bites his lip. "No," he mumbles.

Mark gently taps his thigh. "That's a lie. Do we tell lies in this apartment?"

Jackson sighs and shakes his head. "No. Sorry."

Mark nods. "Jackson, I don't care how late it is or what space you're in. If you're scared and need me, wake me up. Anytime you want to sleep in here, you're more than welcome."

"But it's your bed."

"Yes, and I'm your caretaker. Which means if you want to sleep in here, you can." Mark pats the top of Hank's head. "You and your pup."

Jackson cuddles his stuffed animal closer. "Don't want to bother you."

"Hey, hey, hey," Mark tilts up his chin and gently holds it. Jackson's eyes are wide and filled with anxiety. "Jackson Avery, you are not a bother. I am here for you, always. If you need to sleep in my bed, then you'll sleep in my bed. Even if you don't have a nightmare."

"That's for babies," Jackson whispers.

"And you're my baby." Mark taps his nose. "Even when you're feeling big. I'll take care of you, always." He pulls him closer and curls him into his chest. Jackson plays with his gray Yankees t-shirt. "Do you want to sleep in here?" Jackson hesitates. "There's no wrong answer, bud."

Jackson is quiet for a few moments. Slowly, he nods. Mark smiles. He kisses the top of his head.

"Then let's get you all nice and cozy."

Mark grabs one of his throws and carefully wraps it around Jackson. The man lays down against the pillow. Mark slips the pacifier into his mouth before pulling the duvet over both of them. He leans over and shuts off the lamp. Jackson cuddles up against him. Mark snuggles him like a teddy bear and presses tiny kisses to his head. Suddenly, he's more comfortable than before. Jackson is warm, especially in the thick flannel.

"Shut those eyes," Mark whispers. "Mark's here. I won't let anything hurt you."

Jackson sucks on his pacifier as he continues to play with his caregiver's shirt. Mark smiles and fusses with his face. He truly is so cute. It takes all he has not to give him more kisses or pinch his cheeks. Jackson really needs more sleep. They both do.

"No more play time." Jackson whines. Mark gently pats his bottom. "Eyes shut. Mark's here."

Jackson reluctantly closes his eyes. Mark continues to pat his bottom and snuggle him close. After about 10 minutes, he's fast asleep. Even as he's in dreamland, he sucks his pacifier and wiggles a little. Mark takes in the adorable man until his own eyes begin to tug close. It's time to practice what he preached and get some sleep of his own.

"Dr. Avery?"

Jackson looks up from his clipboard. Frankie stands before him. She rubs her baby bump that's covered by her bright blue scrubs. For a moment, Jackson is about to ask if she's in labor until he sees the serious look on her face.

"Yes?"

"Dr. Sloan would like to see you in his office."

Jackson swallows. "Can't you tell him I have a consult?"

"I could, but I don't think it'd do much good. He said to make sure you go there without any excuses."

Jackson feels the heat creep up his cheeks. He mutters his thanks to the nurse and turns around. The elevator arrives faster than he'd ever wish it to. Luckily, it's empty. The last thing he needs is anyone witnessing him feel like a child on their way to be scolded in the principal's office.

There are no stops along the way. He slowly steps off the elevator and heads down the hall to Mark's office. The blinds are drawn, hardly a good sign. Jackson knocks on the door. He's quickly granted entry. As slow as possible, he enters the office and shuts the door behind him.

Mark sits behind his desk. A disappointed look has taken over his face. He snaps his fingers and points to the chair in front of him. Jackson sluggishly walks over and drops himself down. He sits up as straight as possible.

"Dr. Sloan," he says.

"Cut it out," Mark says. His voice is firm. "I believe you know why I called you here."

"I mean…no…not really."

Mark tilts his head and arches his brow. "Is that so?"

Jackson exhales through his nose. "Look, I was following what the patient wanted…"

"Buh buh buh." Mark holds up a hand. "Why don't you go over what I asked you to do."

Jackson's cheeks warm once again. His fingers start fidgeting but he quickly stops.

"Mark, Jocelyn wanted the surgery. She told me with her own words."

"That's not what I asked you."

Jackson sighs. "You told me to give her a second consult. Ask her again. But that would've been pointless!"

"No, it wouldn't have."

"She told me what she wanted…"

"Yes, but you see, when I went to see her, she had a change of heart."

Jackson frowns. He's worked with Jocelyn since his residency. She's worked on correcting a few bits of herself that she was uncomfortable with. Each procedure, Mark encourages him to talk to her about a million times before performing. It feels almost harassment after a certain point. After all, what does it matter? She should know what she wants.

"You talked her out of it," he says.

Mark shakes his head. "I asked her why she truly wanted the nose job. After all, there were no medical reasons. After a while, she showed doubts. She may still get it down the line, but she's taking time to think about it."

Jackson nods. "That's good then."

"Yes, but had I not done this follow-up, she would've gone through with a surgery that she didn't agree with." Mark narrows his eyes. "That's exactly why I asked you to give her a second consult."

"It just seemed like overkill," Jackson argues. "She told me what she wanted."

"You know just as well as I that these types of surgeries are permanent. Toast can't be bread again, Jackson. There's a reason why I have these protocols in place. I understand other surgeons may not feel this way, but you worked under me long enough. I'm the chief. My rules are in place for a reason. You passed your boards. That tells me that you know better than this. So, why don't you tell me the real reason why you didn't do the second consult?"

Jackson bites his lip. "The ER was busy. I had to get back there."

"Myself and Warren are on staff. There is no reason for you to rush back there."

"I just wanted to help…"

"Jocelyn needed your help," Mark swiftly interrupts.

Jackson looks down at his shoes. He feels like a stupid intern again. This is such a rookie mistake to make.

"Look at me." Jackson reluctantly meets Mark's eye again. There's a cross between his boss and caretaker there. "Go stand in the corner."

Jackson's mouth drops open. "What?"

"Corner. Go."

"I…you can't…I'm on the clock," Jackson manages to get out.

"Yes, and I'm not just your boss, but you're caretaker."

"You wouldn't put Warren or any of the other plastics in here."

"Yes, because they are not my responsibility. I warned you that you could end up in timeout while in an older frame of mind."

"But…"

"As of right now, you're there for 10 minutes. Do you want longer?"

Jackson stares at him in disbelief. Surely, he won't truly make him stand there.

"12 minutes," Mark says. He taps his watch. "You must not have anything better to do."

Jackson slowly gets up from his chair. He crosses to the corner and picks a spot on the wall. The heat creeps up once more as his stomach flip flops. He feels about 3 feet tall. In his career, he's made other mistakes and usually just gets a lecture. Whether from Mark, Richard or Bailey. This is brand new.

He imagines someone walking in. Oh God, Alex. Not that he'd have any reason to enter Mark's office. Well, unless one of his patients needed plastic surgery. He'd never hear the end of it. Even though he's pretty sure that Alex has stood in the corner of Derek's office a time or two.

Oh God, Derek. If he or Meredith walked in, they'd have one of those talks with Mark. The kind that act as if he's not even there.

He should've just had the stupid consult.

No, this isn't fair! Jackson kicks the wall. He's not some little kid. Like he said, Mark would never dare to put Warren in the stupid corner.

Warren's not his responsibility.

Jackson frowns. This is just his luck, working in the same hospital as his caregiver. Maybe there's a reason why some choose to go elsewhere. Not that Jackson would dream of it. He loves it here, and not just because of the reputation the Fox-Averys have built for themselves here. It's his home.

It means that he'll have to go in stupid timeout when he doesn't listen to Mark.

The 15 minutes feel like an hour. Jackson can't stay still. He occasionally kicks the wall or whines. Mark doesn't acknowledge him. Jackson peeks over his shoulder a couple of times. His caregiver is typing on his computer for most of it. Likely filling out some sort of paperwork.

Jackson wants a hug.

No, he wants to be out of this dumb corner.

He folds his arms over his chest and huffs. He has no one to blame but himself. So, why is he so pouty?

"Come back to my desk," Mark says after what feels like an eternity.

Jackson crosses back over. He doesn't sit down and keeps his arms folded over his chest.

"That was ridiculous," he mutters.

Mark clearly holds back a smile. "Did you learn something?"

"Maybe," Jackson kicks the floor. "I should've done the consult. It could've been dangerous otherwise."

"Exactly."

"I really did just want to help," he argues. "You and Ben needed my help."

"Your help can wait. As I said, where I needed you was that consult. At the end of the day while you may not be a resident anymore, I'm your boss. You need to follow my orders. Not just mine, but all of your superiors."

Jackson sighs and nods. "Yes, sir."

"What will you do next time?"

"Follow your orders." Jackson chews on his lip. "I'm sorry."

"I know you are. I also know you thought you were doing the right thing. You just have to trust me that I know what I'm asking you."

"I gave you more work. That wasn't fair."

"It wasn't. But I trust you learned your lesson."

"Yes, sir."

"Good. Now, come here."

Mark pats his knee. Jackson makes a face. "We're at work."

"Yes, and I just put you in timeout. It's not like anyone can see."

Jackson lowers himself onto his lap. Mark cuddles him close and kisses the top of his head. Jackson rests his head on his shoulder.

"I'll do better next time," he promises.

"I know you will." Mark rubs his back. "I still trust you, bud."

"Really?"

"Like I said, I know you thought you were helping. And I do believe that timeout was enough to teach you that you need to listen to me, even at work."

Jackson pulls a face. "For sure. That was humiliating."

Mark laughs, shaking his head. "It's not meant to be. Just teaching you a lesson." He pats his back and stands him up straight. Jackson tries not to pout from losing the affection. "You have another consult, I believe."

Jackson checks the clock. "Oh, crap. Yeah. I do." He looks back at him. "Am I allowed to do this one alone?"

"So long as you follow protocol. And I know you will."

"Thanks."

Mark gives him a nod. Jackson walks out of the office and takes a glance around. He's safe.

Not another two feet does he hear Alex's voice. "In trouble with the principal?"

Jackson internally groans. "It's none of your business."

"Sure." Alex appears by his side. "Timeout?"

Jackson grumbles, pressing the button for the elevator. "Why were you up here?"

"Having dinner with Dad." Jackson's annoyance melts and he smirks. Alex arches a brow. "Think before you mock. What were you just doing?"

Jackson's smirk disappears. He shoves his friend. Alex chuckles, patting him on the back.

"C'mon. Back to our boring adult realities."

Somehow, that doesn't sound as appealing as being held on Mark's lap.