Inell's Fanfiction Archive

Kirk/McCoy - Arthurian Times

Leonard puts the damp cloth into the bucket of water. “Your fever is breaking, but you cannot get out of bed yet.”

“I still feel hot,” James says hoarsely. “My throat is also sore.”

“Perhaps you should refrain from speaking until it feels better, your highness,” Leonard suggests. He twists the cloth tightly to remove the excess water before he reaches out to place the cloth on James’ forehead.

“Are you telling your king to be silent?” James parts his cracked lips and presses them against the bottom of the cloth.

“My king should listen to my advice instead of continuing to talk,” Leonard mutters. He reaches for a goblet of water and brings it up to James’ mouth. “Drink.”

“I always listen to you, Leonard,” James whispers before he drinks greedily, coughing when he gulps too much water.

“If you had remained in the castle instead of visiting the villagers, you would not have caught the sickness. I warned you to be careful, but you still went. You nearly died,” Leonard says gruffly.

“I knew that you would not let me die,” James says.

“There will come a time when I will be unable to save you.” Leonard’s voice cracks, making him purse his lips as a nerve in his cheek twitches. This was nearly that time, and he can recall how still and quiet James had been during the last few days. He’s still scared that James will suddenly close his eyes and not wake again.

“You will always save me, Leonard.” James raises his hand slowly and grips the front of Leonard’s shirt. “Do not leave me.”

“I will not,” Leonard murmurs, putting the goblet back before moving the wet cloth over James’ pale face. “You must rest now, my king.”

“Do not call me that,” James whispers. “I am not your king.”

“You are wrong,” Leonard says. “You are my king.” He brushes his fingertips along the curve of James’ cheek and jaw. “My king.”

“And you are my doctor,” James says, tugging on Leonard’s shirt. “I am cold now. You will warm me, Leonard.”

Leonard looks at the locked door before he nods and removes his shirt. He lies beside James and soothes him by rubbing his back. “Rest now, James.”

James sighs and curls into him. “Your James,” he murmurs happily before he drifts into sleep.