Exhaustion set in heavily and Steve said nothing more before falling asleep in Peter’s arms. It wasn’t a restless sleep by any means. He woke at least three times during the night from nightmares that left him crying, screaming, and shaking in his husband’s arms. But all of that just wore him out even more and he finally passed out hard just as the sun was starting to rise outside. His body didn’t care. IT needed sleep and it was going to take it now, no matter what time it was or whether someone wanted to see him. He trusted Peter to take care of everything and keep him safe.
Peter’s entire being was on high alert, so he never got a deep sleep, always just under unconscious so that every time Steve jolted, he was awake with soothing words and kisses. He hoped the soundproofing he and Steve had put in would keep the manor from waking up, but it was a fleeting, distant thought in his mind compared to the need to take care of Steve. He was still in the dozing state when there was a knock just after sunrise, and Peter hummed just loud enough to be heard. Derek opened the door just enough to step inside, followed shortly by Stiles and Malia, the two teens looking quite worried. Peter lifted a finger to his lips. “He finally settled an hour ago.” he said quietly.
“It’s bad, isn’t it?” Stiles asked just as softly, and gaining a nod, looked down sadly. “How many did we lose?”
“Stiles, we talked about that-” Derek began, but stopped as Peter spoke.
“At least five?” Peter replied. “Bucky, Wanda, Vision, Sam and T’Challa for sure.” He adjusted just enough to pull Steve against his chest further, kissing his husband’s temple. “The others must be asking or the three of you wouldn’t be here.” He looked up and gained a nod from Malia.
“They’re worried about him. Lydia’s been upset all night.” she replied.
“Just let them know my primary focus is going to be Steve and that Derek is in charge.” Peter said. “Malia, you and Stiles are second in command under him until then. Is there breakfast?”
“Yeah, there’s breakfast.” Stiles assured. “I’ll bring some up” He took Derek’s hand, tugging gently until his mate moved, taking Malia’s hand as they moved by her to coax her out as well. Peter tucked himself as close to Steve as he could and closing his eyes as he kept a monitor on Steve’s heartrate.
Steve continued to sleep and Stiles returned a few minutes later with a large tray that had plenty of food for Peter and Steve, whenever the other woke. Stiles set it down on the dresser and walked over, kissing Peter on the cheek softly. “Just take care of him,” he whispered. “Derek’s got everything else under control for now. Tell him we love him.”
Peter looked up, smiling sadly as Stiles walked around and kissed his cheek. “I will tell him. Thank you.” He replied, petting Steve’s hair. “I’ve got him, I promise. Go take care of your mate and the others. The news wont be easy on them.” He watched Stiles for a moment. “We’ll survive it, Stiles. We’ve survived much worse deaths.” He waited until Stikes was gone again to press his face into Steve’s hair and cry silently, able to sense his mate’s pain even as he rested. “Oh, my love. I wish I knew how to help. We’re so I tune it kills me to feel you hurting so much.” He whispered softly. “But we will survive, and we will get through. I have you, and I will be here as we get through it. I swear.”
themusechronicles 