[For Anthony] Dinoplot aftermath

[poetic_apostle]

A long, hot shower, a bit of real food and drink and a change of clothes had revitalised Julian, making him feel human again. It also made him regret his behaviour toward Anthony, as they'd both been upset, tired and under a fair amount of stress. He knew Anthony well enough to know that his reaction was the man's way of showing his concern

Comments

[alittleofboth]

Anthony was anxious. After their earlier conversation he didn't know if Julian would really be returning, or even if it would be best if he did so. He was reading, as usual, but the little signs of his nervousness - restlessness, periodic tugs at his cuff or a stray lock of hair - were beginning to show.

But then he heard his name and looked up with a flicker of a soft frown. Slowly, he closed the book. "Julian."

[poetic_apostle]

A smile would have been nice, but Julian hadn't really expected one. He hesitated a moment longer and then limped toward the bed, giving Anthony a faint smile, at least. "You've no idea how much better I feel already," he sighed, lowering himself onto the edge of the bed and extending his right leg. The doctors had told him to keep it elevated and still as much as possible, but just not walking on it was relief enough, for the moment.

[alittleofboth]

"Good." And then there was a smile, brief but gentle. "You look it." And he did - just seeming Julian clean and calm, if still hurt, eased his nerves.

He certainly had no intention of bringing up the earlier conversation if things didn't seem to warrant it. And as far as he was concerned, that was the case.

[poetic_apostle]

Julian had no intention of bringing it up, either. He looked over at Anthony and gave him a tired smile. "So do I get a proper welcome home, now that I've cleaned up a bit?" he asked softly, reaching for Anthony with a longing he didn't even try to hide.