The Consolation

“Oh, it looks like it’s going to storm,” Hawkins murmured, pulling back the curtains as a flash of lightning cut across the sky. A content smile settled on his lips, “I love thunderstorms.”

Pilate snatched his notebook from the end of the bed, craning his head over the pages. His face paled as he frantically scribbled across the paper, using the pen Hawkins had given him. He made a low whimper.

Hawkins peered over his shoulder, eyes falling on Pilate. “You sick or something, kid?”

“I feel like I'm going to be,” Pilate mumbled, letting his head sag between his shoulders.

“Well, don't do it on the bed!” Hawkins snapped, only to bite his tongue. Be gentle, he reminded himself. “Uh, I mean, do you need a trash can or something? Or maybe a cup of water?”

Thunder boomed, and Pilate screamed, throwing his hands over his ears.

He’s scared, Hawkins thought. He’s scared of thunderstorms.

“Hey,” Hawkins said, closing the blinds and moving away from the window, “There's nothing to be scared of. It's just noise. You're safe in here.”

“I know, I know! I'm sorry!” Pilate said, his voice cracking. He turned away, perhaps to hide the tears in his eyes.

Hawkins blinked, watching Pilate sniffle. That had been the exact opposite reaction he had intended. Taking a moment to compose himself, he knitted his brow. He wasn't sure what to even say to Pilate to calm him down.

He flipped the light switch, letting darkness fall across the room. “It's getting late. How about you just go to sleep? The storm will pass overnight.”

Pilate nodded slowly, pulling the blankets over his head and curling into a ball. Hawkins stretched out on the couch, the lumpy cushions already promising him an uncomfortable night.

Rain splattered against the window, the roar of wind and thunder drowning out the noise from the air conditioner. Hawkins dug his nails into the side of the couch, the sound of Pilate’s whimpers and cries keeping him wide awake.

It was unbearable. He had no idea how to help him.

Another crack of thunder. Pilate bawled. Shaking his head, Hawkins stood up, the metal springs in the couch squeaking.

“Pilate,” Hawkins said, kneeling at his bedside.

Pilate weakly turned his head. Lightning illuminated his face, and Hawkins saw his eyes were bloodshot. “Mr. Hawkins, I-I’m sorry if I'm keeping you awake.”

“Pilate, I-” A bolt of lightning cut him off.

Pilate suddenly threw himself into Hawkins’ chest, trembling. Hawkins gasped, and Pilate also gasped, realizing what he had done.

Thinking quick, Hawkins awkwardly rested his hand on Pilate’s back, returning the hug. Pilate groaned, wrestling out of Hawkins’ grip.

“I didn't mean to do that,” he blurted, pressing his back to the headboard of the bed.

Hawkins sighed. There was no telling how many times he'd tried to hug Asher, only to be rejected. “It's fine, Pilate. I don't mind.”

Pilate seemed shocked, averting his eyes. He brought his trembling hands together, rubbing his palms. He sat in silence, as if he was mulling something over. “Hey, Hawkins…” he finally said, voice quiet with shame, “Do you mind sitting here until I go to sleep?”

“I don't mind.” Hawkins sat on the corner of the bed, the small of his back cushioned by part of Pilate’s pillow.

Immediately, Pilate’s head slipped, falling against his arm. Hawkins grimaced as hot skin met his bicep.

“Pilate, I think your fever came back. Should I get you some more ibuprofen?”

A soft snore was his only response. Pilate was already fast asleep, holding onto his arm.

Hawkins reclined his head back, his arm already developing pins and needles. He wished he had found a better position to sit in before Pilate became dead weight on him. But Hawkins didn't dare move in fear of disturbing Pilate.

Pilate’s normally tense face had loosened, and for once, he finally looked vulnerable. His bottom lip quivered in his sleep. Hawkins didn't want to know what he was dreaming about.

He may be a Demigod, Hawkins thought, watching his chest slowly rise and fall, but he's still just a scared kid.

Author's Note- this is probably the most Blessed Chapter ever

unfortunately this is like the last Good Fluff chapter lololololol