TRILOGY part 1: Dreading 1/1 (also 12 days of Christmas kidfic 2009 day 10)
Atlantis didn't have fireplaces, and John always thought that was one of its greatest failings. On a quiet night, surrounded by family, there should be a fireplace to snuggle around.
Especially on the eve of a mission - and one that he was dreading.
John startled when Rodney suddenly appeared at his side, silent as falling snowdrops in his leather slippers. "Scared me there, Buddy," he said, gathering the boy onto his lap. "You're supposed to be in bed."
"Can't sleep," Rodney sighed, laying his head on John's shoulder. "I'm gonna miss you tomorrow."
"I'll miss you, too, but you know why I gotta go."
"I know. It's your job and you'll be as safe as you can."
"Right. Try not to worry, huh? We take care of each other and we never leave anyone behind."
"And thus," Teyla said, sitting beside them and running her hand over Rodney's hair, "We will never leave you behind. We shall return."
Rodney nodded, his eyes closing. "Come, little one," Teyla said, reaching for him.
"I got him," John said, standing with Rodney in his arms.
"G'night, Mama," Rodney slurred. "G'night, Daddy." Then he was a warm, limp weight that John carried out of the room.
When John returned, he sank onto the couch beside Teyla. "Both boys are out like a light."
"Good. We should rest, as well. Tomorrow will prove.... interesting."
"What does he want, anyway?" John groaned as he stood again.
"I do not know," she mused as she stood with him. "But we should be ready for anything - especially treachery."
"Yeah, this is Todd we're talking about, after all." John shook his head.
Teyla touched his arm. "Let us try not to think of it now. Now is the time to rest."
He smiled and took her hand, letting her lead them back to their bedroom.
Tomorrow would arrive soon enough.