Look After You (McShep)

[calikelley]

Title: Look After You *Complete*
Rating: PG
Characters: John Sheppard, Rodney McKay
Genre: Slash, Hurt/Comfort
Warnings: None!
Word Count: ~8k
Summary: When John gets sick, Rodney takes on the unexpected role of caregiver while he recovers. John!Whump, McShep slash.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything, just testing out a new sandbox. :)

Author's Note: Written for my BFFL raging_pancake to fulfill her request for a John!whump appendicitis fic. Hope you enjoy! :)

*~*Look After You *~*

~*0345 Hours -- Rodney’s Quarters*~

Rodney jerked awake at the sound of a door sliding open and then closed a moment later, the quiet swish startling him. He forced himself to relax after a moment, silently berating himself as he rolled over in his bed, pulling the blankets up over his shoulders.

He knew that it should be a sound he was familiar with, considering that after nearly three months of spending upwards of two nights a week with Colonel Sheppard, the slightly older man had never stayed through the night, usually waking up around 0300 to go to his own quarters. It was a casual arrangement, something they did to blow off steam and help each other relax. Nothing more, nothing less.

Sleep had just started to claim him again when the sound of retching reached his ears, followed by a low moan that he could only describe as pitiful. The scientist pushed himself out of the warm bed and pulled on a pair of boxers while his mind tried to figure out who could possibly be in his bathroom, making the connection mere seconds before the small door slid open almost silently.

“Colonel?” He asked, almost cringing at how easily he had managed to slip back into what he liked to call ‘professional mode’ after the intimacy they had shared only a few hours earlier.

John looked up from his place kneeling in front of the toilet, his face pale and clammy-looking despite the beads of sweat that formed on his forehead. “‘M fine, jus’...” He stopped suddenly, his body going tense as he leaned into the bowl again, vomiting the little bit that was remaining in his stomach.

Without thinking, Rodney grabbed a soft washcloth and wet it with cool water from the sink before dropping to his knees beside the dark-haired man, resting one hand on his shoulder and offering him the cloth with the other.

“You sure you’re okay?”

Sheppard nodded, wiping his face on the soft fabric as he balanced shakily on his heels. “Must be somethin’ I ate.”

“Oh no.” McKay managed, his hand moving to rest on his stomach subconsciously. “Do...you think it was the almost-chicken? God, it could be salmonella! I *knew* the cooks they got didn’t actually have any experience!”

“Rodney.” John said, pushing himself to his feet slowly before clapping a hand on the brunette’s shoulder. “If you were gonna be sick, it would’ve happened already.”

“Yeah, but...” He stopped, lingering in the bathroom for a moment after John left. Sighing, he exited the bathroom and nearly stopped short when he saw John pulling on his BDU’s. “You’re goin’ back to your room?”

“Huh? Oh, yeah. Just wanna squeeze in a few more hours of sleep before the briefing at 0900. Hopefully I’ll be feelin’ better.”

Rodney nodded, moving back to the bed and watching John pull his tight black tshirt over his head. “You can stay if you want. I know I like to have someone around to help out if I’m not feelin’ well.”

John smiled at the scientist, shaking his head. “It’s alright, McKay. I’m a big boy, can take care of myself.”

“Well, of course you can.” He said indignantly, waving his hand at him. “I just...thought I’d offer.”

Offering another small grin, he almost moved in to kiss Rodney goodbye before stopping himself. Grabbing his jacket off of the small couch in the corner of the room, he headed for the door, pausing just as it slid open. “Dinner tonight?”

“Sure. Feel better, huh?”

“I will. See ya at nine.”

~*0930 Hours -- Conference Room*~

Rodney sighed as he checked his watch once again before crossing his arms over his chest. “He is *never* late.”

“You should really think about developing some patience, Rodney. Not everyone is perfect.” Teyla mentioned, glancing over at the older man. “I am sure that John will be along shortly.”

He barely managed to hold his tongue, frowning darkly as he thought about how John had been throwing up in his bathroom earlier that morning. “But he’s *never* late. Never.”

“He does have a point, Teyla.” Elizabeth said, lacing her fingers together on the top of the table. “Maybe someone should go check on him.”

“I will!” Rodney said, realizing that he seemed a little too eager when Teyla, Elizabeth, and Ronon all turned to look at him curiously. “I just...we...the Colonel and I had dinner together in the mess last night and if he’s sick, I think I should probably know about it, yes?”

The three of them shared a slightly concerned glance before Elizabeth stood. “Go on, Rodney.”

Nodding, he turned and hurried out of the room, making it to Sheppard’s quarters in less than five minutes. Waving his hand over the crystals next to the door, he tapped his foot impatiently as he waited for John to answer.

Releasing a sigh, he tapped his headset, not wanting to bust into the room prematurely. “Sheppard? Did you completely forget about the briefing this morning?”

There was no response, and McKay very nearly gave up, turning away from the door when he got a cold feeling in the pit of his stomach. Spinning back around, he pulled the cover off of the crystal mechanism and switched them around, watching as the door slid open, allowing him entry.

“John?”

His stomach twisted uncomfortably at the sound of his sometimes-lover’s low moan coming from the bathroom, followed in quick succession by dry heaving. Crossing the room, he stepped into the small bathroom and just as he had earlier that morning, he wet a washcloth and knelt next to his side, running a hand over his back gently.

“I told you. You should’ve stayed this morning.”

“If I had stayed then you wouldn’t have been able to swoop in here like Superman and save me, now would you?”

“I’m really more a Spider-man type, but yes. I suppose you’re right.” Rodney gave him an awkward smile, hesitating before reaching up and running his hand through John’s shaggy hair. “How long have you been in here?”

“I dunno. Half-hour, maybe?” He shrugged, slumping back against the wall and swiping at his mouth with the back of his hand. “Is Elizabeth pissed?”

“More worried than anything else.” McKay conceded, studying his face carefully. “You’re running a fever, aren’t you?”

John shook his head, groaning as he pushed himself up from the ground. “‘M fine, McKay.”

He eyed him closely, looking for any sign that the Colonel was hiding something. “Okay. But don’t think that I won’t sic Carson on you just because I make fun of his profession.”

“You wouldn’t.”

“I would, and you know it.” He said, offering him a crooked grin. “I’m gonna radio Elizabeth and let her know you didn’t die in here. You should take a shower.”

Sheppard cocked an eyebrow at him, dropping the soiled washcloth into his hamper. “You tellin’ me I stink?”

McKay just rolled his eyes as he exited the bathroom, letting the door slide shut quietly behind him as John started the shower. Pressing the button on his comm, he called for Elizabeth, waiting patiently until she answered.

“How is he, Rodney?”

“Bein’ a big baby. He’s not feeling well though, so we should probably reschedule the briefing for later this afternoon. Says he was up all night puking.” McKay relayed, sneaking a look back at the bathroom door.

“Alright. Try to convince him to see Carson, hmm? We can’t really afford him being sick.”

“I’ll see what I can do.”

“Good. I’ll contact you later with the new briefing time.”

He didn’t reply, turning off his headset as he pulled it from his ear and set it on the desk. He had just managed to make himself comfortable on the bed when John came out of the bathroom, a towel tied low on his hips and another in his hands, drying his hair.

“What did Elizabeth say?”

Rodney watched as he moved across the room to get dressed, amused by the domesticity of the moment they were having. “She wants you to see Carson. I told her I’d do what I could, but I’m pretty sure she knows that it won’t be happening.”

“Good.” He said, cringing slightly when he bent down to put his pants on, thankful that his back was to the bed, preventing Rodney from seeing the unexplained pain he suddenly felt. “So, you’re gonna babysit me?”

“Well, I’d hardly call it babysitting.” The scientist said, frowning slightly. “If you’d rather be bored out of your mind, I can go. Or...I could always get Beckett in here.”

“You can stay.”

“Thanks for that.” He said sarcastically, picking up the discarded copy of ‘War & Peace’ that was sitting on the nightstand. “You still haven’t finished this book?”

Sheppard snorted, immediately regretting the move as he stretched out on the bed next to the younger man. “Haven’t exactly had the time, you know? Between goin’ off-world and keepin’ you in line.”

“You? Keeping *me* in line? I think you have me confused with...well, with you.”

Shaking his head and rolling his eyes, John released a quiet yawn and dropped his head back against his pillow. “‘M goin’ back to sleep. Y’don’t have to stay if you don’ want.”

It was McKay’s turn to scoff as he turned the page and continued reading. “You know I’ll be here. Unless Zelenka manages to blow something up, of course.”

“Of course.”

~*Four Hours Later -- John’s Quarters*~

Rodney woke up with a hot weight on his chest, and when his eyes flew open, he was surprised to see John resting on him, his hair matted down and his skin covered in a sheen of sweat. He glanced at his watch out of habit before trying to move, giving up after only a moment, knowing that he wasn’t going to be able to move the stronger man.

“John, wake up.” He whispered, shaking his shoulder gently. “C’mon, you’re sweating like a pig.”

There was no response outside of a quiet grunt as he shifted his head, muttering something incoherent under his breath.

“Sheppard.” McKay tried again, frowning when he only got more incoherent muttering. “Colonel.” This time he ran a hand over the older man’s side gently, nearly falling off of the bed when he cried out in pain, gripping himself. “I barely touched you. Now, c’mon. Time to wake up, it’s been nearly four hours.”

John whimpered as he curled in on himself, making the scientist’s face pale significantly. Reaching out, he placed a hand on his shoulder, rubbing his thumb back and forth slowly.

“Go ‘way.” He muttered, his voice cracking in pain. “Jus’ go ‘way, Rodney.”

“Can’t, you know...we should, I mean...”

“No.”

“You really should go see Carson, Colonel.” He said, not wanting this to feel too personal for John. “Elizabeth’s right. We can’t afford you being sick.”

Sheppard waved him off, burying his face in the pillow. “‘M not goin’.”

Dropping his head back against the headboard on the bed, Rodney released an exasperated sigh. “You’re seriously gonna make me call him, aren’t you?”

“Not makin’ you do anything. ‘M fine.”

If looks could kill, McKay was certain that the glare he shot at the back of John’s head would have burned a hole straight through his thick skull. Standing up grudgingly, he crossed the room and shoved his earpiece back in before calling Carson.

“Hello there, Rodney. How is Colonel Sheppard doin’?”

“You know I hate deferring to your expertise in all things voodoo, but I can’t very well not follow through on my threat. He’s running a fever and is complaining about his side hurting.”

“I’ll be there in a moment. Sounds like it may be more than the food poisoning that Elizabeth mentioned earlier.” Carson said, already heading for the transporter that would take him to the residential areas of the city.

Rodney turned the headset off and walked back to where Sheppard was writhing around on his bed, frowning darkly at him. “You know, I was under the impression that *I* was the stubborn one, but I think you may have me beat.”

John simply glared at him, another low moan escaping him as he leaned over the edge of the bed and heaved, bringing up little more than stomach acid. Fortunately, Beckett entered the room a few moments later, his eyes wide as he looked down at their friend sadly.

“Oh my, Colonel. You don’t look to be doin’ very well at all.”

The dark haired man coughed, taking a sip of the water Rodney held for him. “Thanks for that, Doc.”

Shooing McKay out of the way, he dropped onto the bed next to Sheppard gently, immediately running his portable scanner over the slightly older man’s head. “Well, Rodney, you were correct in saying he has a fever. 102.4 to be exact.”

“*He* is still in the room.” John managed, forcing himself to sit up despite the stabbing pain in his side.

Carson and Rodney both looked at him, mathing frowns on their faces at the pained look on his face. “Aye, you are, Colonel. Let’s get you to the infirmary, hmm? Get a better look at you.”

John sighed, allowing the doctor and scientist to help him off of the bed. They knew from experience that Carson wouldn’t hesitate to sedate him in order to get him into the infirmary. Under normal circumstanes, Rodney would fight to keep him out of the good doctor’s ‘voodoo room’, but he knew that after what he had seen this morning, the younger man wasn’t going to be of any help.

Thankfully, it only took them a few minutes to get downstairs, and once he was settled on the uncomfortable mattress, Beckett didn't waste any time getting started with his exam.

"How long have you been feeling the pain, Colonel?"

He shrugged, setting his jaw as the Scot pressed gently at the tender skin on his side, barely managing to hold in his cry of pain. "Since early this morning, I guess."

Rodney struggled to keep his reaction under control, not wanting to give anything about their hidden relationship away, but still upset with Sheppard for not telling him that he had been in pain earlier.

Carson shook his head, clearly disappointed as he injected some medicine into John's arm. "That’s for your fever, but I'm gonna have to get you under the scanner to take a look at your side."

"What do you think it is?" McKay asked, hoping that his concern came across as nothing more than friendship.

"Unfortunately it's looking like it might be appendicitis."

Rodney couldn't help but feel sick to his stomach at the thought of John potentially needing surgery. He didn't protest as Carson moved him out of the way, starting the scanner and watching intently as it examined the older man's body for them.

"Aye." He said quietly, seeing the results on the screen. "It's as I thought. Colonel, we're gonna have to get you into surgery as soon as possible."

"I...I don't know, Doc. I mean...I really am feelin' fine."

"Drop the stubborn act!" Rodney complained, rolling his eyes.

"He's right, if we don't treat you soon, your appendix could burst, and you will be far worse off than you are now."

Sheppard was just about to open his mouth in response when Elizabeth's voice came over the city-wide communications announcing that there was need for a medical team to come to the gate room immediately due to an off-world expedition coming back with wounded.

Carson turned to the nurses and residents that were rushing around gathering supplies before turning back to his friend. "Colonel, I..."

"Go, Doc. I'll be fine, and I'm sure that McKay's not gonna leave me alone."

"Good." He said, turning to the scientist. "Rodney, if he gets any worse..."

"Yes, yes I know. Call you immediately. Go."

The Scotsman took off, rushing along with his colleagues to the gate room, leaving John and Rodney alone in the large, cold room. Sinking down into the chair next to his bed, McKay pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes tightly before speaking.

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Tell you what, McKay?”

He scoffed, shaking his head. “Oh, I don’t know, *Colonel*. Maybe that you had a pain in your side that felt like a twisting knife?!”

Sheppard dropped his head back to stare at the ceiling, not knowing how to answer the question. “I don’t know. I guess I thought that you...”

“So help me, Sheppard, if you even *think* about saying that you thought I wouldn’t care, I’ll be sure to replace the anesthesia they’ll give you for your surgery with saline!”

“Like you’d be able to get away with it.”

“I am the smartest man in two galaxies, or did you forget?”

The dark-haired man chuckled quietly, immediately regretting the move when the stabbing pain intensified for a moment. “How could I possibly forget? You only remind us every single day.”

Rodney narrowed his blue eyes at him, frowning. “Well, I just want to make sure no one forgets.” He said, hesitating momentarily before meeting his eyes. “And just so you know, Colonel, I uh...I do.  Care, I mean.”

“Rodney...” He tried, stopping suddenly when his side cramped painfully, making him close his eyes tightly.

“John? John, what is it?” McKay said, resting a gentle hand on his forehead, his eyes widening slightly when he felt how high his temperature was.

“Hurts.”

“Uh...um...let me get Carson, okay?”

Shaking his head, John rolled onto his side, pulling his long legs up toward his chest. “I’m...it’s fine, really. This is helping.”

“Sheppard...” He tried, not bothering to hide the slightly irritated tone in his voice.

“I’m fine. Just...stay?”

He simply nodded, reaching out and taking the Colonel’s hand in his, lacing their fingers together. “I’m not goin’ anywhere.”

They sat in silence for a few minutes, the only sounds being the bustling of doctors and nurses tending to the injured and John’s pitiful groans as his side cramped painfully. Rodney was busy trying to comfort his lover, brushing his dark hair back from his sweaty forehead when Teyla and Ronon quietly entered the cordoned off area where they were.

“How is he doing, Rodney?”

He nearly jumped, surprised by their presence. “Oh, um...he’s in pain.” He said, absently trying to pull his hand away from John’s only to have him hold tight, another groan escaping him as the cramping continued. “I really need to find Carson, but I don’t wanna leave him alone.”

“Ronon and I will stay with him.” Teyla offered, slipping her hand into Sheppard’s, effectively replacing the scientist’s. “Go ahead.”

He silently thanked her, briefly glancing at Ronon before exiting their little curtained room to find Beckett. Taking a step closer to the bed, the Satedan studied his friend closely, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Thought you were tougher than this, Sheppard.”

“Huh.” He managed, forcing his eyes open to look at the tall man . “Like to see you try this.”

“John.” Teyla warned, reaching over picking up a small cloth before tossing it at Ronon. “Cool water on that, please.” She watched as he grunted in understanding and stepped out of the room, leaving the Athosian woman alone with the Colonel. “The pain is great, yes?”

He nodded, gripping her fingers tightly as he rocked himself back and forth as much as he could manage, willing the pain away.

“I am sorry there is not more I can do, Colonel.”

“Don’ be.” He said, his voice rough. “My fault, shoulda told Rodney this morning.”

Teyla chose not to acknowledge his admission, understanding that it wasn’t the time to be prying into the man’s private life. “Yes, you probably should have.”

He opened his mouth to reply when Ronon re-entered the room, handing Teyla the damp cloth. She promptly placed it on his forehead, her other hand squeezing his fingers gently. “Just relax, John. Rodney will be back in a moment with Dr. Beckett.”

“Y’know, if you wanted to get out of sparring today, all you had to do was ask.” Ronon teased, offering the sick man a small grin.

“Ronon!”

He shrugged, shifting his eyes to Teyla. “What? I’m just messin’ with him.”

She narrowed her eyes at him, brushing Sheppard’s hair back from his face gently. “Leave him be. Why don’t you go see where Dr. McKay and Dr. Beckett are?”

The tall man left the curtained area for the second time, grumbling under his breath about being kicked out.

“It’s fine, Teyla.” He reassured her, pushing the damp cloth away from his forehead.

The younger woman didn’t get an opportunity to respond as Carson and Rodney rounded the corner, worried looks on their faces.

“How bad is it, Colonel?” Beckett asked, stepping up to the far side of the bed and prodding at his friend’s side gently. “The pain is worse?”

“How’s everyone doin’?” He asked, jerking his body away from the doctor’s touch. “Who’s hurt?”

“I asked you a question!” Carson snapped, his eyes still showing worry despite the anger in his voice. “How is your pain?”

“‘S fine.” John managed, taking a deep breath. “Who. Got. Hurt?”

“Lieutenant Cadman was shot. They’re prepping her for surgery right now, but it looks like she will have to wait.”

“No, Doc. Take care of Cadman first.” The Colonel insisted, clenching his jaw against the pain. “Jus’ gimme a little morphine. I’ll be fine.”

Doctor Beckett hesitated, unsure if he wanted to leave the Colonel to wait for his surgery. “I don’t know if you should wait any longer.”

“If it gets worse, I’ll just have Ronon stun me.” He managed, holding his body still in hopes that the pain would lessen.

Everyone turned to look at the tall Satedan, not missing how he reached for his pistol and was sure to set it to ‘stun’.

“Go, Carson! Deal with Cadman. The sooner she gets taken care of the sooner you can get him into surgery!” Rodney said, subconsciously taking his lover’s hand in his again, missing the looks that crossed Teyla, Ronon, and Carson’s faces. “Don’t think I didn’t see that over-excited look on your face, Conan.”

“Okay, okay. I’m going. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

Once Beckett had left the room, McKay leaned over the older man, running his hand over his forehead in an attempt to gauge his temperature. “She always throws a wrench in everything.” He muttered, shaking his head as he settled into the chair next to John’s bed.

“Who?” Teyla asked curiously, shooting a warning glance to Ronon. “Lieutenant Cadman?”

“Yes, *her*. First she managed to get stuck in my head, then she screwed up any chance I had with Katie Brown...” He stopped, releasing a frustrated breath as Sheppard writhed in pain on the bed. “And now this.”

“‘M fine, Rodney.” John said, squeezing his hand to reassure him. “I’ll be jus’ fine. This...wasn’t Cadman’s fault.”

"She just had to get shot, didn't she?"

"Rodney!" Teyla scolded, shooting a glare at the older man.

The scientist held her harsh stare with one of his own before backing down, closing his eyes momentarily.

John simply squeezed his hand, unable to say anything as his eyes slid shut, allowing him to fall into a fitful sleep.

It was nearly an hour later when Teyla came back over to Rodney’s seat, pressing a warm cup of coffee into his free hand, not missing how his other hand was holding John’s tightly, his thumb brushing over it mindlessly.

“Thanks.” He muttered, not lifting his eyes to look at her.

“It is not a problem, Rodney.” She smiled, patting his shoulder gently. “Perhaps you should go with Ronon to get some food. You are looking awfully pale.”

“Can’t go. I have to stay with him.”

“I promise I will not leave his side. Please, you know that Doctor Beckett will not take you ignoring your hypoglycemia very well.”

The scientist sighed, setting the cup of coffee aside and running his hand through his hair. “Teyla...”

“McKay, let’s go.” Ronon said, resting his heavy hand on his shoulder.

He opened his mouth to argue when he noticed the way that Teyla cocked her eyebrow at him in warning before sitting in the plastic chair Ronon forced him to vacate. “Fine. C’mon, Chewie, I don’t wanna be gone too long.”

Teyla shook her head as the two men disappeared from sight, leaving her alone with John. She held his hand, quietly studying the screens next to his bed as she tried to put the bits of medical knowledge she had learned since living in Atlantis to good use.

“Mmf...Rodney?”

Reaching over, the Athosian brushed her hand over the Colonel’s forehead, offering him a small smile. “No, John, just me. Ronon took Doctor McKay down to the mess hall to get some food.”

Sheppard nodded in approval, relaxing against the pillows. “Water?”

“Of course.” Teyla smiled, helping him to sit up before passing him the cup. “How are you feeling? You still have quite a fever.”

“Better.” He said, his voice smoother after having taken a drink. “Doesn’t hurt as much as it did earlier.”

“What?”

John and Teyla both looked up, surprised to see Rodney standing at the edge of the curtained room holding a tray of food. “He says his pain is fading.” Teyla replied, answering his question as he set his tray down and made his way to the head of his lover’s bed. “What is the problem?”

Tapping his headset, Rodney frowned, touching John’s forehead gently. “Carson, his appendix burst.” Pausing, an irritated look crossed his face before he continued. “I don’t care! She’s been in there over an hour, finish and get out here now!”

~*90 Minutes Later*~

“Rodney, you really should sit down.” Teyla insisted, resting a hand on his arm only to have him shrug it off roughly. “Pacing around isn’t going to help Doctor Beckett finish the surgery any faster.”

“Well, he should be answering me when I talk to him!” He barked, having made sure to turn the headset on. “Carson!”

Sighing, the younger woman turned away, looking at Ronon as he leaned against the wall. “I do not know what to do for him.”

“Want me to *make* him sit? Wouldn’t take much.”

“Don’t even think about it, Caveman. I’m not some intolerable woman you can just cart off to your cave and have your way with.” Rodney warned, putting his rant to Carson on hold to point his finger accusingly at the Satedan.

Ronon growled, narrowing his eyes at the older man as he continued to rant through his headset despite the fact that he wasn’t getting any response. “Do you *ever* shut up, McKay?”

“Only when I’ve got ‘im otherwise occupied.” John mumbled, swiping at his eyes as he woke up. McKay’s cheeks turned a bright pink at the sudden disclosure from his lover, making him shift uncomfortably as he felt both Teyla and Ronon staring at him wide-eyed.

“You and Sheppard?” Ronon asked, an amused tone to his voice as he watched the scientist redden further, coloring the tips of his ears. “You’re...”

“Together?” Teyla finished quickly, not wanting to risk Ronon saying something inappropriate.

Rodney didn't get the opportunity to respond as Carson made his way toward them, not having bothered to take his smock off after Cadman's surgery. "What the hell happened? I've been calling for you for the past half hour!"

"I was in the middle of surgery, Rodney! I got here as quickly as I could." Carson defended, offering Teyla a small smile as she allowed him to slip past her. "When did his fever spike?"

"Just before Doctor McKay called you." She supplied, looking between Beckett and John nervously. "Colonel Sheppard woke up and said that he was no longer feeling any pain."

"That's why I called you, or did that message not get through either?"

Carson narrowed his eyes at McKay, silently warning him. "No need to be snippy, Rodney." Snapping his fingers, two nurses appeared at his side, awaiting orders. "Let's get him into the OR, he needs an emergency appendectomy."

"Needed it 20 minutes ago." Rodney muttered, watching as the nurses wheeled his lover toward the operating room, leaving Carson behind.

"I'll have him fixed up in no time at all, Rodney. You should go and make sure Elizabeth knows what is goin' on while I'm in there, though. I promise I'll let you know before I bring him back out."

The scientist simply glared at him, not knowing what else to do as the doctor walked away, leaving him alone with Teyla and Ronon once again.

~*Later That Day -- 1745 Hours*~

John groaned as he started to come around, his eyes opening slowly as he struggled to remember what had happened this time to land him in the infirmary. He tried to shift his body against the mattress, barely managing to stifle a groan of pain as the stitches on his side were pulled, making him flop back against the pillows uncomfortably. Turning his head to the side, he felt a small smile crossing his face when he saw Rodney slumped in the uncomfortable chair next to his bed, his head kinked at an odd looking angle.

He couldn’t help but chuckle as he reached for the headset Carson had left on the equipment cart, slipping it on carefully before tapping it, hearing the familiar static in his ear. The sound startled his lover, making him jump as he looked around the small curtained area, his blue eyes wide. “John?”

“Right here, Rodney.” He said, catching the younger man’s hand in his own and squeezing gently.

It only took the scientist half a second to sit up in his chair, alert and focused on his lover. “Hey.” He said quietly, his eyes still frantic as they checked the screens quickly. “How’re you feeling?”

“I’m fine.” He said, attempting to reassure the younger man, but only succeeding in earning himself a disbelieving raise of the eyebrow. “Okay, so I’m a little nauseous. Nothin’ that I can’t handle.”

“Which means it’s worse than you’re letting on.” He countered, reaching up and tapping his headset. “I’m calling Carson.”

“You would really torture me like that?! I thought...” John slumped miserably, listening as Rodney completely ignored him in favor of yelling at Carson to ‘get his voodoo ass in here and take care of his patient’.

“What were you saying?” He asked, turning back to Sheppard after his tirade against their friend was complete and he was guaranteed to be on his way.

“Nothin’.” John said, forcing a small grin that just barely convinced the younger man.

“Your fever’s up again.”

“I’m sure everything’s fine, McKay. You don’t have to mother hen me, you know. You can go back to your quarters.” He said, immediately regretting the words when he saw the hurt look that crossed Rodney’s face. “I didn’t mean...”

“No, it’s okay. I understand.” The scientist said, schooling his face back to his usual smug frown. “You don’t have to explain yourself to me, Colonel.”

John didn’t get an opportunity to reply because Carson pulled the curtain back, offering the older man a grin. “Good to see you awake, Colonel. How are you feelin’?”

“A little better, Doc. Wantin’ to get back to my room.”

“Well, now, you know that won’t be happenin’ for another couple of days.” Carson said, lifting up John’s scrub top to check on his stitches. “Feeling any soreness here, Colonel?”

He grunted as the doctor poked at him, keeping his eyes on Rodney as he stood in the corner of the small area watching quietly. “Uh, yeah. Isn’t that normal?”

“Aye, but I want to make sure it’s not as bad as what you were feelin’ earlier.”

“It’s not as bad as that.” He insisted, jerking his head toward Rodney. “Tell him to go get somethin’ to eat, huh?”

“That will not be necessary, John.” Teyla said, offering her friend and CO a smile as she stepped toward them and handed a tray of food to Rodney. “All of your favorites, Doctor McKay.”

The brunette took the tray and sat down in the nearest chair, completely missing the looks that John was shooting him as he scarfed down his food.

“Gonna share, McKay?”

“Ah, you’re not in any state to be eatin’ that garbage, I’m afraid.” Beckett said, not missing the look of disappointment on the Colonel’s face. “Maybe tomorrow, if your fever goes down some more. But until then, we’ll keep you on IV feeding.”

“Doc...”

“No arguments, Colonel.” He said, a tone of finality in his voice as he turned and exited the room, leaving Teyla and Rodney with him.

“C’mon.” He whined, glancing at the items on the tray. “Maybe just some of the jello.”

“Uh, yeah, no.” Rodney said, glancing up at him for a moment. “Jello’s mine. Besides, you heard Carson. No real food ‘til tomorrow.”

Dropping his head back against the pillow, John very nearly growled in frustration before Ronon entered the room, making his way to the edge of the bed and nudging his arm gently with his elbow.

“Hey there, big guy. What’s up?”

“Don’t play it off, Sheppard.” Ronon laughed, pressing a cup of jello into his hand wrapped in a napkin. “Got it special.”

The older man grinned, unwrapping the jello cup and opening it before digging in.

“You got blue jello!?” Rodney complained, glaring at John. “You’re not even supposed to be eating, and Chewie brought you *blue* jello!?”

The older man stuck his tongue out playfully before taking another bite of his jello. “No reason to get all upset. All you have to do is ask, I can share.”

McKay frowned, shaking his head before digging into his food again. “No, no. Wouldn’t want to take away your only joy, seeing as you’re bedridden and all.”

Teyla and Ronon looked between them before settling on John, sending him silent apologies for the scientist’s harsh demeanor.

“Thanks, guys.” John said quietly, trusting the two of them to understand that he wanted them to give himself and Rodney a moment alone. When they left, no doubt heading to the gym for a late afternoon sparring session, he reached out, tapping his lover’s arm gently to get his attention. “Rodney.”

“Hmm?” He asked, his mouth full of food as he met the older man’s eyes.

“Why don’t you go, huh? You don’t have to hang out here and keep me company.”

Rodney huffed, dropping his fork to the tray and pushing himself out of the chair he had been occupying for the majority of the day. “Fine.” He snapped, his angry tone only thinly veiling his disappointment. “If you’d rather be here alone, who am I to stop you?”

“Rodney...”

He stopped, turning back to the bed and crossing his arms over his chest. Just as he was about to speak, John rolled to his side, evacuating the meager contents of his stomach onto the floor beside his bed. “Carson!” Rodney called, returning to his lover’s side and running what he hoped was a comforting hand over his back as he continued to heave. “Get in here!”

The doctor appeared within seconds, a deep frown on his face as he took in the scene. “I knew that Ronon was up to no good when he came in here.” Carson complained, calling for an orderly to come and clean up the mess as he approached the bed. “Colonel, did you think I was talkin’ just for the fun of it when I told you no food?”

“Honestly?” He asked, taking a deep breath as the nausea subsided. “Yeah, Doc, I did.”

Beckett couldn’t help but chuckle at the older man’s honesty. “Aye, everyone thinks that I talk too much sometimes, but I rarely say things that I don’t mean.”

“Yes, yes, Carson, we’re all aware that you are painfully honest even when it would be better for you to lie. Now, is he going to be okay?”

“Oh, yes. He should be just fine. He does, however, need some rest. And that includes silence, so you should go and get some rest of your own.”

McKay rolled his eyes, dropping into the chair next to John’s bed. “I’ll be fine here.”

“In your quarters, Rodney. Don’t make me get Major Lorne in here with some of his Marines.”

The scientist grumbled, offering the doctor a glare. “You are a real pain in the ass, you know that, Carson?”

“Aye, I do.”

John looked at his lover for a moment, not missing the way he didn’t bother to move from the chair he was sitting in before looking up at Carson. “Could I get some water, Doc?”

“Of course.” He conceded, seeing that Sheppard wanted to be able to talk to Rodney alone.

After he left the small area, pulling the curtain closed around them, John reached out and tugged on Rodney’s hand, motioning for him to move closer to the bed. “You need your rest, huh? I’ll be fine here.”

McKay looked hesitant as he studied the older man, frowning darkly. “I don’t trust these witch doctors.”

“C’mon. You know they’re good at what they do. I’ll be fine.” He reassured him, reaching up with his other and and pulling the younger man down by the back of his neck, surprising them both with a quick kiss. “Bring breakfast in the morning, huh?”

“Alright. But only if you’re sure.”

“I am. Go get some rest.”

Rodney nodded, squeezing John’s hand before pulling away. Beckett returned with a cup of water just as they separated, a wide smile on his face. “I see you talked some sense into him, yes?”

“I think so.” Sheppard said, allowing the doctor to help him drink the water. “Night, McKay.”

The scientist waved, turning around and forcing himself to leave the infirmary, decidedly unhappy about having to leave his lover there alone even if it was just overnight.

~*0200 Hours -- Rodney’s Quarters*~

“Rodney. Rodney!”

The scientist jerked awake at the sound of the familiar accent in his headset, nearly making him forget about sleep altogether. “Carson? It’s...” He hesitated, glancing at his clock that rested on the nightstand. “Two A.M. Is everything okay?”

“Colonel Sheppard’s fever is spiking, and he’s refusing to let anyone touch him but you.”

Rodney sighed, pushing the warm sheets on his bed back and sitting up before reaching for his pants. “I’ll be right there.” He bit out, turning off the offending earpiece and slipping into his shoes before leaving his quarters.

He arrived in the infirmary less than five minutes later, rubbing a hand over his tired face as he crossed the large room to where his lover was being held. “Okay, I’m here.”

Carson turned away from the bed and offered the scientist a strained smile. “He’s havin’ delusions. Confused, agitated...it has a lot to do with his fever, but he struggles against anyone who tries to get close to him. I just wanna be sure he doesn’t rip out his stitches.”

Nodding in understanding, Rodney stepped closer to the bed, resting a gentle hand on his lover’s arm. “John? I’m here.”

“R...Rodney?”

“Right here. You know, you don’t have to freak out on everyone. If you wanted me to come back, all you had to do was ask Carson to call me.”

“I don’...I don’t feel good.”

The usually gruff scientist softened almost immediately, sinking into the chair next to the bed and taking John’s hand in his own. “What’s the matter, hmm?”

Carson stood just outside of the curtain, watching the pair closely. He knew that something had changed in their relationship, but despite his usually adept ability to read people, he hadn’t been able to pin it down until now.

He allowed the couple some quiet, closing the curtain around the small room and heading off to check on his other patients.

“Carson said he gave you something for your fever.” Rodney mentioned off-handedly, reaching a hand up and brushing his partner’s unruly black hair off of his forehead. “And look at that. It’s already gone down some.”

“Didn’t mean for Beckett to wake you up.” John said, his eyes drooping heavily. “Sorry.”

McKay scoffed, waving his hand absently. “Nothing to be sorry about. If you remember, I didn’t want to leave in the first place.”

“Did...” He paused, forcing his eyes open and looking up at the younger man. “Did you get some sleep?”

“I’m fine. You’re the one who needs to rest right now.” Rodney said, leaning over and kissing John’s cheek. “You just had surgery, go to sleep.”

“You’ll stay?”

He nodded, waiting until the Colonel’s eyes were closed before smiling. “Yeah. I’ll be right here.”

~*Four Days Later -- Atlantis Infirmary*~

“C’mon, Doc! I’m feeling fine, and it’s not like you don’t see me ten times a day anyway!”

Carson waved him off, noting something on the Colonel’s digital chart before walking away, nearly running Rodney over as he tried to get away from his most demanding patient. “I don’t know how you deal with bein’ on his team.”

The scientist smiled, shaking his head. “You know, if you’d just let him go, he wouldn’t be a problem.”

“Not you too!” He cried, releasing a sigh before throwing his arms up and walking away mumbling about how everyone in Atlantis would completely disregard their health if it weren’t for him.

Rodney couldn’t help but be amused, watching as his friend walked away before starting toward his lover’s bed, glad to see that he was sitting up and eating the breakfast he brought for him. It had been a long four days, but he hadn’t left John’s side since the older man’s fever spiked in the middle of the night after his surgery, relying on copious amounts of coffee to keep him sane.

The Colonel’s fever went down shortly after Rodney came back to the infirmary that first night, but the following morning when Carson returned, he found that when John’s appendix ruptured, a small infection had formed. That had earned him another two days of being stuck in the infirmary, though Beckett couldn’t decide if it more punishment for him than it was helpful for Sheppard.

“Coffee?” Rodney asked, sinking into the chair next to his lover after handing him one of the cups he was carrying. “I see you’re torturing Carson again.”

“It’s his own fault.” John complained, taking a sip of the coffee. “He knows I don’t like bein’ cooped up in here.”

He chuckled, offering the older man a knowing smirk. “Well, you know that he’s only more determined to make your life a living hell if you give him a hard time.”

Sheppard rolled his eyes, slumping back against the pillow miserably. Neither of the men were sure when their relationship had become...well, a relationship, but it had happened, and they were both happier than they had been in years.

“You wouldn’t wanna help me stage a breakout, would you?”

McKay snorted, shaking his head as he nearly choked on his coffee. “Not a chance. I get him angry enough on my own, I don’t need him mad at me on your account too.”

“And here I thought you cared about me.”

He shrugged, drinking the last bit from his cup. “It’s really a common misconception.”

John chuckled, a smug grin on his face. “Yeah, I know you’re afraid to let everyone see the big softie under that tough exterior, but I know the truth.”

“Ha!”

“I know all about you, *Meredith*.”

His blue eyes narrowed as he looked up at his lover. “You know I *hate* when you call me that.”

“Yeah, but somehow, I always manage to get away with it.”

Shooting the older man another glare, he crossed his arms over his chest, a pout forming on his lips. He was just about to say something smart-assed that would no doubt make the Colonel use that goofy grin he had, when Carson retunred, tossing the dark grey BDU’s that belonged to his lover on the bed.

“Lettin’ me go, Doc?”

“I can’t have you torturing my nurses any more, Colonel. I’ve already had a few beggin’ me to get you outta here.”

Sheppard smirked, swinging his legs off the side of the bed and pulling his scrub top off before reaching for his tshirt. “I knew I’d wear you down eventually.”

“Aye, well you’d better keep an eye on your stitches.”

“Trust me, I’m not intending on bein’ back in here anytime soon.”

Beckett nodded, offering the couple a tight yet friendly smile. “Good to hear.” He said, turning away and leaving them alone as he went to tend to his other patients.

John finished dressing quickly, leaving the scrubs he had been wearing on the bed before standing up. “Well, I’m hungry. Wanna join me?”

“Where else would I go?” Rodney asked, falling into step next to the older man as he started out of the infirmary. “Besides, you know I’m always hungry.”

They made their way to the mess hall and piled their trays high with food before sitting at their usual table and eating silently, pretending not to notice the glances they snuck at each other over the course of the meal. When they finally finished nearly a half hour later, they both stood and started for the living quarters, not bothering to pay any attention to the fact that they were both headed back to John’s room.

“Well, I guess I’ll go. Haven’t had a good night’s sleep since you landed your hairy ass in the infirmary.”

“My ass isn’t hairy. You know that.” John retorted, his mind opening the door to his room before they even reached it. “C’mon, stay here.”

“I don’t know. I mean...I’m just down the hall, and like Carson said, you need to take it easy.”

The Colonel rolled his eyes, wrapping his large hand around the back of Rodney’s neck and steering him into his room before thinking the door closed behind them. “I’d like takin’ it easy with you instead of alone.”

McKay sighed, knowing that he wasn’t going to be able to go back to his room without wishing his lover was with him. “Okay.” He conceded, allowing John to lead him to the bed. “But only for a while. I have to go make sure Zelenka didn’t break anything while I was babysitting you.”

“So you admit it was babysitting?” Sheppard teased, taking off his own shirt before turning his attention to Rodney’s.

“Someone had to make sure that you and Carson didn’t kill each other. Unfortunately, I’m the only one who could manage it.” He retorted, allowing John to tug his shirt off before moving them both to the smallish bed.

They laid down carefully, making sure they each had plenty of room before making themselves comfortable and pulling the sheets up around them. “Just a nap, okay?”

“Sure thing, Rodney. Just a nap.”

The younger man rolled his eyes, settling into his pillow when he felt John’s arm snaking around his waist, pulling him back against his solid chest. He couldn’t help but melt into the touch, a small smile turning his lips at the feel of the Colonel’s nose burrowing into his neck as his breathing deepened.

Within minutes they had both closed their eyes, the exhaustion from the past few days taking over and sending them into a dreamless sleep that would force the inevitable conversation about their status as a couple to another day.