The next morning, Vox stirred awake to the soft rays of sunlight filtering through the curtains. He stretched, feeling the warmth of Alastor beside him, but as he turned to look, his heart sank. Alastor was a snotty, hot mess, his usually sharp features softened by the remnants of sleep and illness.

Vox reached out gently, brushing a hand against Alastor's forehead to check for fever. "Hey, wake up, love," he said softly, giving Alastor a gentle shake. "Are you feeling okay?"

Alastor groaned in response, his voice hoarse and muffled as he buried his face further into the pillow. "Ugh... just peachy," he grumbled, his usual charisma dimmed by the congestion that clouded his voice.

Vox frowned, feeling a wave of concern wash over him. "You sound terrible," he said, half-teasing, half-serious. "You sure you're not coming down with something?"

"Just a little under the weather," Alastor mumbled, finally turning to face Vox, revealing his red-rimmed eyes and the snotty mess that was his nose. "I'll be fine. Just give me a moment."

Vox couldn't help but chuckle lightly at the sight of his usually composed boyfriend in such a vulnerable state. "You look like you've been through a war zone, Al."

"Very funny," Alastor shot back, his voice still gravelly, but a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes. He attempted to sit up but ended up wincing, bringing a hand to his forehead. "Could you grab me some water?"

"Of course, I'll be right back," Vox said, pushing himself off the bed and heading to the kitchen. He filled a glass with water, his mind racing with thoughts of how to help Alastor feel better. When he returned, he handed the glass to Alastor, who took it gratefully.

"Thanks," Alastor murmured, taking a slow sip before setting the glass down beside him. "You're too good to me."

"Someone has to be when you're like this," Vox replied with a teasing grin. "Now, let's see if we can get you some medicine and a hot meal. Maybe some soup?"

Alastor nodded, grateful for Vox's care. "That sounds... perfect," he said, allowing himself to lean back against the pillows. "You're a real lifesaver, you know that?"

Vox smiled, feeling warmth spread in his chest as he leaned in to press a soft kiss to Alastor's forehead. "Just focus on getting better, okay? I'll take care of the rest."

Vox made his way downstairs, his mind set on helping Alastor feel better. He filled a measuring cup with some medicine, carefully measuring out the correct dosage. As he poured the thick liquid, he couldn't help but think about how stubborn Alastor could be, insisting he was fine even when he clearly wasn't.

Afterward, Vox turned on the kettle to boil water for tea, hoping the warm drink would soothe Alastor's throat. Just as he was pouring the medicine into a small cup, Charlie walked into the kitchen, her cheerful energy lighting up the room.

"Good morning, Vox!" she greeted, her smile wide. "Where's Alastor? I wanted to see how he's doing."

Vox glanced up, feeling a mix of amusement and concern. "He's upstairs, but I'm not sure 'doing' is the right word. He's a bit under the weather," he explained, pouring the hot water into a mug and letting the tea bag steep.

"Oh no! Is he okay?" Charlie asked, her brows furrowing with worry.

"Yeah, just a cold, I think," Vox replied, taking the measuring cup of medicine and the steaming mug of tea over to the counter. "I'm just trying to make sure he gets some medicine and tea to help him out. He really hates being sick."

Charlie nodded, stepping closer. "Let me know if he needs anything. I can whip up some soup or something to help him feel better!"

"Thanks, Charlie. I'll keep that in mind," Vox said with a grateful smile. He paused, then added, "Do you think you could distract Niffty for a bit? I want to give Alastor some time to rest without her bouncing around."

"Of course!" Charlie said, her enthusiasm returning. "I'll take her for a walk in the garden or something. Just let me know when you need me to check on him."

"Perfect, thank you!" Vox replied as the kettle whistled. He poured the hot water over the tea bag and let it steep for a moment before heading back upstairs.

"Take care of him, okay?" Charlie called after him, her tone earnest.

"Always," Vox replied, a sense of determination fueling him as he climbed the stairs, ready to care for his partner.

Vox climbed the stairs, the sound of the kettle still echoing in his mind as he approached their bedroom. He pushed the door open gently, careful not to wake Alastor abruptly. The sight that greeted him was a mix of endearing and concerning—Alastor lay sprawled across the bed, his face buried in the pillows, a crumpled tissue clutched in one hand.

"Hey, sleepyhead," Vox said softly, moving closer. "How are you feeling?"

Alastor groaned, muffled by the pillow. "Like I've been run over by a herd of stampeding demons," he replied hoarsely, his voice a raspy whisper. He turned his head slightly, revealing his bloodshot eyes and the flushed complexion that indicated he was fighting off something nasty.

Vox couldn't help but smile at his partner's theatrics, even though he felt a pang of sympathy. "Well, I've got something to help with that," he said, holding up the small cup of medicine and the steaming mug of tea.

Alastor squinted at the sight, his expression shifting from groggy confusion to reluctant acceptance. "What is that?" he asked, wrinkling his nose as he propped himself up on one elbow.

"Just some medicine and a nice cup of tea," Vox replied, making his way to the bedside. He sat down on the edge, placing the mug on the nightstand. "You need to take this first."

With a heavy sigh, Alastor sat up fully, rubbing his eyes with the back of his hand. "You'd think I'd learn to avoid sickness by now," he muttered, though a hint of a smile crept onto his face as he accepted the cup. He downed the medicine in one swift motion, grimacing at the taste.

"Now that wasn't so bad, was it?" Vox teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Alastor shot him a mock glare. "You're lucky you're cute, Vox," he said, setting the cup down. "Or I might be tempted to bite you."

Vox laughed softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from Alastor's forehead. "After that lovely display, I think I'll take my chances." He handed Alastor the mug of tea. "Here, sip this. It'll help soothe your throat."

"Thanks," Alastor said, taking the mug and wrapping his hands around it, relishing the warmth. He took a tentative sip, letting the heat spread through him. "You really didn't have to do all this, you know."

"Of course I did," Vox replied, his tone earnest. "I care about you, and when you're feeling like this, it's my job to make sure you're taken care of."

"Just don't expect me to do this whole 'being sick' thing again," Alastor grumbled, though there was a softness in his voice that revealed how much he appreciated Vox's care.

Vox leaned closer, placing a hand on Alastor's knee. "You know I wouldn't mind taking care of you every day if it meant being with you," he said, his gaze sincere.

Alastor's expression softened, and he placed his free hand over Vox's, squeezing it lightly. "You're too good to me, Vox," he replied, his voice a whisper.

They shared a moment of comfortable silence, both feeling the weight of their connection and the warmth of the tea filling the room. Eventually, Alastor finished the mug and set it aside, looking at Vox with a newfound determination.

"Okay, what's next?" he asked, a hint of mischief returning to his eyes.

Vox grinned, realizing Alastor was starting to perk up. "Well, I thought we could binge-watch something while you rest. I've got some cozy blankets ready and everything."

Alastor's smile widened, and he nodded. "I'd like that." He patted the space beside him. "Come here, then."

Vox slipped under the covers, nestling close to Alastor, who wrapped an arm around him, pulling him in tightly. They settled into the warmth of the blankets, the world outside fading away as they enjoyed each other's presence.

"Now, what should we watch?" Vox mused, grabbing the remote from the bedside.

"Something light," Alastor suggested, his voice still rough but filled with a hint of his usual playful tone. "No horror, please. I don't think I could handle that right now."

Vox chuckled, scrolling through the options. "How about some cartoons? I think I still have a few episodes of **Bob's Burgers** saved."

"Perfect," Alastor replied, settling back against the pillows.

As Vox clicked play, the familiar theme music filled the room, and the two settled in, content to share this quiet moment together. Vox felt Alastor relax against him, their bodies fitting together like puzzle pieces, and for a while, everything felt just right.

As the opening credits of **Bob's Burgers** rolled, Vox felt the tension in Alastor's body begin to melt away. He wrapped his arm around Alastor's shoulders, pulling him closer as they both chuckled at the antics of the Belcher family.

"See? This is much better than whatever horror you were watching last night," Vox teased, nudging Alastor playfully.

Alastor rolled his eyes, though a smile tugged at his lips. "Alright, you win this round. But don't think I'll let you off so easily next time."

"Wouldn't dream of it," Vox replied, feeling warmth spread through him.

As the episode progressed, Vox occasionally stole glances at Alastor, admiring how the lighthearted humor seemed to lighten his mood. He felt a swell of affection for his partner, grateful for the chance to care for him and be close like this.

When a particularly funny moment had them both laughing, Vox felt Alastor's laughter reverberate through him, a sound that was music to his ears. It was in these moments that he realized how much he cherished their bond.

"Hey," Vox said, turning to Alastor, who had settled comfortably against him. "Do you remember when we used to binge-watch things like this together? It feels like ages ago."

Alastor nodded, a hint of nostalgia in his gaze. "Yeah, I remember. You kept trying to guess what would happen next, and I'd pretend to be annoyed but actually found it endearing."

Vox chuckled at the memory. "I can't help it if I'm good at predicting storylines. It's a gift."

"More like a curse," Alastor teased back, but his tone was light.

They continued watching the show, Vox occasionally reaching for the remote to skip through commercials or pick a new episode. Each time, Alastor would snuggle closer, seeking warmth and comfort.

After a couple of episodes, Vox noticed Alastor's eyelids growing heavy. "Hey, you okay?" he asked, glancing down. "You still with me?"

Alastor cracked one eye open, a sleepy smile forming. "Just resting my eyes... maybe I'll just close them for a second."

"Not on my watch," Vox laughed, gently shaking him. "You're not getting away that easily. How about some more tea?"

Alastor groaned playfully, stretching like a cat. "Fine, fine. But only if you promise to bring me another mug."

"I'll see what I can do," Vox said, pushing himself up and heading to the kitchen.

As he made the tea, he couldn't help but think about how much he enjoyed these simple moments with Alastor—caring for him, laughing together, just being together. He poured the hot water over the tea bag, letting it steep, and then added a splash of honey before carrying the mug back to the bedroom.

Alastor was still propped up against the pillows, eyes half-closed but alert enough to notice Vox's return. "You're a saint," he murmured, taking the mug from Vox's hands.

"I do what I can," Vox replied, a playful grin spreading across his face. He settled back beside Alastor, their bodies brushing against each other under the covers.

As Alastor sipped his tea, Vox couldn't resist teasing him again. "You know, I think you'd look cute in a robe while sipping tea on a rainy day."

Alastor raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Are you saying I'm some kind of delicate flower now?"

"Just saying you'd make it look good," Vox shot back, laughter bubbling between them.

Alastor shrugged, taking another sip of his tea. "I suppose if it's designer, I could consider it."

"Of course, only the best for my boyfriend," Vox said, leaning in for a quick kiss.

As they settled back into a comfortable silence, Vox couldn't help but think how nice it was to have this time together, especially after the chaotic events of the previous night. The warmth of the blankets, the soft sounds of the show, and Alastor's presence next to him felt perfect.

Eventually, Alastor set his mug aside and curled up against Vox, resting his head on his chest. "I'm really glad you're here," he murmured, his voice muffled by the fabric.

"Me too," Vox replied, wrapping his arms around him. "Always."

As the next episode started, Vox felt himself beginning to drift off, lulled by the sound of Alastor's soft breathing and the familiarity of the show. He closed his eyes, knowing that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.

Alastor stirred a bit later, the sound of his coughing breaking the peaceful atmosphere that had settled in the room. Vox immediately turned his attention to him, concern washing over his features as he rubbed Alastor's back soothingly.

"Hey, easy there," Vox murmured softly, patting him gently between coughs. "Just breathe. I'm right here."

Alastor coughed harshly, the fit seeming to wrack his entire body. Vox felt a pang of sympathy; he hated seeing Alastor like this. He kept his hand steady on his boyfriend's back, feeling the tension in Alastor's muscles as he continued to cough.

"Come on, deep breaths," Vox encouraged, leaning closer to him. "You're okay. Just let it out."

After what felt like an eternity, Alastor's coughing finally subsided. He blinked a few times, still dazed and half-asleep, and Vox gently maneuvered him back onto his chest. Alastor let out a soft sigh as he settled against Vox, his body relaxing into the warmth.

"Shhh, I've got you," Vox whispered, rubbing Alastor's back in slow, comforting circles. He could feel the tension slowly leave Alastor's body, the rhythmic motion of Vox's hand lulling him into a deeper state of relaxation.

Alastor's eyelids drooped as he nuzzled closer against Vox, his breaths evening out. Vox smiled softly, feeling a swell of affection as he continued to stroke Alastor's back. This was the kind of intimacy he cherished—the quiet moments of connection where it felt like the rest of the world faded away.

"Just sleep, love. I'm here," Vox murmured, kissing the top of Alastor's head as he listened to his boyfriend's breathing grow steadier and softer.

As Alastor drifted off, Vox felt his heart swell with love. In this cozy little bubble, surrounded by warmth and the soft glow of the television, he knew that they could face anything together. He closed his eyes, letting himself relax as he held Alastor close, both of them finally finding peace after the chaos of the past few days.

A few minutes later, Charlie quietly entered the room, carrying a tub of Vox Vapor Rub (I know, I'm sorry, I couldn't help myself lmao). "This stuff works wonders when you're congested like that," she whispered, a knowing smile on her face. "But of course, you know that; you practically invented it." She handed the tub to Vox before quietly slipping back out.

Vox looked down at Alastor, who was sprawled out next to him, sound asleep on his back. His chest rose and fell gently, though it was punctuated by the occasional raspy breath. Vox couldn't help but feel a surge of protectiveness as he noticed how vulnerable Alastor appeared.

Gently, Vox opened Alastor's robe, exposing his chest, and scooped some of the Vapor Rub onto his fingers. He started to rub it in, feeling the cool balm gliding against Alastor's warm skin. As he applied the rub, Alastor stirred slightly, his brow furrowing at the sudden sensation.

"Just go back to sleep, love," Vox murmured, his voice soft and soothing. "It's just something to help you feel better, and hopefully, it'll ease that cough of yours."

Alastor's eyelids fluttered, but he settled back down, his body relaxing under Vox's touch. Vox continued to massage the Vapor Rub gently into Alastor's chest, watching as his boyfriend's tension eased away with each stroke.

The soothing aroma filled the air, a comforting reminder of home and care. As Vox worked, he felt a sense of contentment wash over him. He loved being able to take care of Alastor, to be the one who could help him through tough moments like this.

Once he was satisfied with the amount he had applied, Vox leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to Alastor's forehead, whispering sweet nothings as he settled back against the pillows. He wrapped an arm around Alastor, keeping him close, and felt a wave of warmth spread through him.

"Just rest, babe. I'll be right here," Vox whispered, feeling his own eyelids grow heavy as he basked in the quiet comfort of the moment. With Alastor beside him and the soothing scent of Vapor Rub in the air, Vox allowed himself to drift off, knowing that they would face whatever challenges lay ahead together.