Chapter Text
"Good Morning." Stephen greets as he passes by Wong, who at the moment, was drinking his morning tea in silent peace until Stephen spoke.
"Stephen, morning to you too…"
"Ah, no 'good morning' ?" Stephen showed his shit eating grin to make Wong glare at him in so early in the morning. "Oh come on, live up a little, it's the holidays you know?" He says, only to hear a little disgruntled grunt emit from Wong.
It makes him grin, such a grinch is he?
His smile fades when he looks over the window and watches the fallen snow. It's gotten thick too. Winter is both fun and horrible, he was up all night shivering and drinking hot water and the cold weather would also hurt his hand, making it harder to hold on the items he needs.
Stephen walks to the counter and carefully poured his fox printed mug of freshly boiled water and decided for a coffee instead of tea. Stephen doesn't show it but he hasn't slept for days. The tea is calming, caffeinated tea wasn't enough, so a dark, strong and bitter coffee will do today.
Wong continued his peace, with a warm tea on his side and a morning newspaper whilst Stephen was foraging the fridge for breakfast. Opening the drawer from below, the egg case and then the freezer where it has nothing but ice.
All empty .
Well except for the other contents that he wouldn't wish to consume in the early morning when the 'food' would stare right back at you. Stephen sighs and shuts the fridge close. Not even one egg.
He goes and checked on the cabinets and shelves for a can or unopened slice of bread but none. He sighs heavily once more. What a life. Stephen didn't have the problem before when he was a surgeon but alas, sorcery and saving the world doesn't pay. He had to make do with what he has.
Just coffee it is.
"Anything interesting?" He asks. Standing behind the sorcerer supreme and reading down at the newspaper Wong was holding. He sips loudly to get his attention.
Wong groans in defeat at his constant short timed silence whenever he's with Stephen. He closed the paper and slides it away from him, unsatisfied with the lack of possible paranormal activity going around. Stephen knew that he was hoping for anything peculiar near Greenwich Village or something around the globe to help with his boredom.
"No. Nothing on the news and on paper. All are just holiday related." Wong looks sleepless too.
"How about at Nepal? Looked for anything there?" Stephen leaned on the kitchen wall with him looking right at Wong's back. Huh. He's worked out lately? Stephen sips his coffee. It's pretty broad.
"No. I haven't checked yet."
Stephen puts down his mug and sneezed on his robes then nodded afterwards, lips frowning. "Is the sorcerer supreme slacking at his duties?"
Wong turns his head. He has taken offense at that. "I do not. "
Stephen gave him a mischievous smile. "Sure you don't." Stephen takes another look at Wong. There was something off. A sense of heaviness and exhaustion. "Anyway, now that you're not doing anything. Can you come with me and get some groceries at least?"
Wong sighs. Eyes looked tired than usual. "Now?"
"Now."
His tired friend hummed, the chair screeched the wooden tile when Wong stood. Stephen may love annoying the man from time to time but Stephen was deeply concerned about Wong. The sorcerer had become way too busy, tired, and off lately. And Stephen can't pin point as to exactly what was 'off' .
Wong was always needed at Kamar-taj, making him stay at the place for too long and just watch tv shows until he's called again. Now Wong would come to the Sanctum for a rest outside of Kamar-taj.
The fridge and cabinets are empty, and Stephen thought that it might be good to take Wong on a walk, a quiet day with rest without otherworldly threats constantly bothering them on the daily.
"Let's go then."
Stephen snorts in disbelief. "Wearing that?" Shaky hands gestured at the attire that was washed from probably centuries ago. He really needs to be out of that clothing he wears every day.
Wong raised a brow. "What if I'm needed? The mart is just a few walks away anyway."
"Now you're just being lazy. Go change your clothes for once, Wong… Please?" Wong breathes out, both hands slacked on his sides.
"Fine." Stephen gave him a gentle smile that softened Wong's hard, tired expression. "Will be ready in a moment. "
"Will wait for you then." He says as he sips on his hot, morning coffee.
_____
Stephen mumbled when counting the money he has. Being paid for magic tricks on kids birthday parties aren't exactly he's proud of but at least it puts money on the table.
He wanted to make more but he'd rather find other jobs and save money from there than return to making magic tricks at parties. Focusing while children scream, play, and asking too many questions aren't exactly a good pair for his patience. Perhaps he'd try to be a veterinarian.
Besides, it's not really uncommon for other sorcerers to have a part time job as many might think but as for Wong, he wasn't really sure where the sorcerer works at and getting such big salaries.
Stephen thought at first that perhaps Wong had been saving for himself but he had noticed that Wong would return with a dislocated joint or would wear his longer robe just to hide giant bruises and brightly red knuckles beneath bandages.
He thought it was from training but one time, Wong returned with a stack of money and a broken nose. Stephen had asked but Wong would always assure Stephen that it was nothing.
Stephen had been called reckless and arrogant but the man himself had become a hypocrite in the years that had passed.
Wong's not only tired and exhausted but he's been battle hardened too. And there are many more reasons that have taken a toll on him that he'll never share too. A part of Stephen wished to ease him of whatever weight Wong has on his shoulders.
Stephen lets out a heavy sigh once more, his mind sinking deep into thoughts about Wong. He knows not to invade people's space, he has the patience to let them speak when they choose to and lets them be comfortable on their own until they're ready.
But Wong's different. He kept his silence and pain buildup so much that Stephen fears for him. The more he's worried, the more Stephen understood what Wong had to go through with Stephen. Noticing your partner being reckless and lying about their own health, keeping secrets to not hurt anyone they love and care for.
That's it. The odd sensation he felt, the heaviness. Perhaps Wong was hiding something?
Stephen blinks. He lost track of time, he hoped that he wasn't standing there in front of the mirror for so long and had Wong stand outside in the heavy morning snow.
Stephen wore his darker navy blue jacket while the cloak floated idle beside, silently asking if it could come. How could Stephen say no?
"Alright, come here…" Stephen grabs the cloak, automatically transforming itself into a scarf when he wraps it around his neck.
Stephen walks down the broad steps and sees Wong's figure waiting for him outside the Sanctum. Looking at each other through a window. Stephen walks down faster, surprising himself for not tripping off his feet.
The man spoke when Stephen stepped out. "About time, Stephen." Wong's voice croaks. Sun's down in Kathmandu, he must've been sleepy.
"I know. Sorry I kept you waiting." He can't look away, he could've tripped if he loses another focus. It was just that this is the first time he seen Wong in civilian clothes. Denim pants, red shirt and a khaki jacket. He looks like any ordinary man but for Stephen, in his eyes, Wong looks absolutely handsome. "You look great ."
He says as he closes the door behind… Handsome? Stephen wondered what was the thought about. Wong has the looks, why would he wonder about the thought he just had?
"Thanks…" Wong quirks his lip, pretending that he most definitely didn't care. He might not say it but Wong has a bit of vanity there.
"You look good on those. You should do this more often." Stephen comments.
Wong coughed, his breath visible in the cold air. "Don't get used to it."
"Mhm." Stephen chuckled as he began to walk and Wong followed.
The morning's absolutely cold this December, and Stephen was glad to have a scarf keeping his neck warm but he didn't care to bring a pair of gloves. He could've worn gloves but he hasn't found a comfortable one yet. Knitted ones would be itchy, faux leather are too hot and mits looks ridiculous on him; it gives him less freedom to hold on to the things he needed.
Stephen mumbles at the cold. No wonder Wong's so grouchy this winter. The cold was hell on earth.
"Stephen?"
Stephen turns his attention to Wong. "Yeah?"
"Where should we go? Morton Williams?"
"At LaGuardia's? Sure, I was just thinking of the grocery and convenience just near us at bleeker."
"More choices at Morton's."
Stephen hummed in agreement. "True, but it's the people I worry about."
Wong thinks for a moment. "The busy people or your fans and paparazzis?"
"They just have nothing to do. I can deal with them no problem." Wong looks with doubt and judgment. " What? "
"Sure you would. You love the attention." He says as he continues to walk forward so Stephen won't comment.
Stephen scoffs in sarcasm. Wong doesn't seem to notice, that or he doesn't acknowledge it. What can he do? He couldn't say no for a picture.
_____
They arrived at Morton Williams at 130 Bleecker street.
The two entered and so far, no one cares for their presence which is great. People are busy buying things for their holidays, their carts full for later preparations and more.
Such a bummer, sorcerers are always so busy that he and Wong haven't had any proper holidays. He thought of putting on some decorations at the Sanctum for America to experience whenever she comes by but Stephen doesn't know where to start. So many ideas, so little time, so little rest.
Stephen took a basket, putting its handle on his forearm.
"Do we have a list, Strange?" Wong asks from behind, his voice was warm to hear.
"You know I don't do lists. Although it's why I need you. I don't trust myself holding the jars."
"All this way to help you with jars?" Wong understands why. The man just can't help the sarcasm and wit on his tongue at Stephen. The two would constantly do this so it's nothing new.
"Well, not exactly. Feels lonely lately. We used to go out in the old times."
"That was five years ago."
"Alot longer in my case." Wong shuts quickly. Right, Wong's expression had just now remembered about the fourteen million realities Stephen had talked about. "Just stay for a little longer with me. Please?" The look Wong shared softened. As if he was sorry.
"Things I do for you." Stephen heard him say. His ears warmed up. Wong's an unpredictable man.
The two move along the isles. Adding canned foods and a jar of goods. The jars are usually useful for adding mystical food after they're empty. It's horrible but his fridge downstairs has enough room for oddness, he couldn't possibly keep some of them in the upstairs fridge.
Stephen later calls Wong's name softly to get his attention when the basket gets heavier. Locking eyes.
"Please?" Wong didn't hesitate to carry the basket for him. Stephen sighs in relief when the weight on his arm lessens.
"You think we should stock up more for the both of us and Chavez?" Wong asks. Making Stephen turn, and before he could speak, "I have extra on me by the way. I practically live in the Sanctum too. Chavez comes by the Sanctum alot, we should atleast have something for her."
God. Stephen's not good with kids. That never crossed his mind. So much had happened and thank god for Wong's thoughtfulness. It makes Stephen embarrassed with himself. The young girl might need more than snacks and food. She's a teenager, blasted, what does he know about kids?
Stephen felt like he's a negligent parent.
"We can't keep ordering takeout pizzas whenever she comes." It's true, it's unhealthy but Stephen couldn't say no when it's the food she only likes. Wong puts down the basket near Stephen. "Wait for me in a moment. I'll be back."
Stephen still hadn't spoken at all and so he practically didn't move an inch on his spot. Wong's quite a treat today, glad he asks Wong to come with him. Still, he stood there and thought about what America would like. Would she like toasted oats mixed with dry fruits and nuts for a snack? How about fruits?
Stephen was beginning to think more about her health. Pizza and oily foods aren't always good. He was thinking deeply, ignoring the few people that passed by that would give him a stare because of his familiarity. He stood idly until Wong returned with a trolley.
"I should've thought about that earlier. Thanks, Wong." Stephen says as he transfers the goods from his basket to the trolley.
"Fill it up." Wong says.
Stephen smiled wide at this point. "Is the Sorcerer Supreme feeling very generous today, I see?"
"Want me to change my mind?"
"You're no fun." Stephen pouts. "Come on before I regret the fact you changed your mind." Stephen wanted to turn around when he heard a soft chuckle.
He wanted to see Wong's smile.
The two then grabbed food, important household products, and goods, making the trolley heavy to move. The sight of the full trolley was a surprise. He only bought so little before and now it feels like a grocery for a family. It was a lot but Wong insisted that it's fine.
It was quick so they wouldn't wait so far in line. Stephen was standing still while he waited for Wong to fetch other goods until Stephen was next. One by one he placed the products on the counter when suddenly his hand decided that it's a good idea to act up when he was holding a jar. Painful joints numbed and shaking.
Damned hands.
The jar was then caught. Wong's reflex was impressively quick. "Careful now." He says as he places the jar and the products he brought with him right on the counter.
"Sorry."
Wong took notice of his hands trembling. He held one and soothed Stephen's hand with his thumb, tracing the scars and gently pressing on the joints.
"You should've used gloves."
Stephen exhales. "I know, I know." Wong continued to soothe it while the products were being scanned.
God. This feels so unreal, the ordinary domestic moments in his life now feels unordinary. And now here's Wong soothing and holding his hand so gently that it feels like his heart's about to burst.
"We're almost there. I hear that the cold makes it worse for some." He says as he warms Stephen's hand.
"It's fine, it goes aways on its own, thank you." Stephen swallows thickly. He pulls his hand back when he hears the same people that saw him sharing whispers from behind. That's embarrassing, Stephen hoped that it won't give them any speculation and that he wasn't as red as his scarf at that moment.
The men saw the amount on the monitor and the two shared their pay. Wong's presence then became lighter and peaceful. Maybe he is just tired. Besides, this is once in a blue moon. To live normally without constant threat on their way.
As the groceries were bagged, Wong carried a few heavier ones on hand and Stephen the same but he carried them on his forearms. Both of them are even.
"Hm, should we get a ride home?" Stephen asks. Both are strong and capable but to carry all these all the way back?
Wong wiggles his fingers, showing him a worn sling ring. Of course Wong wouldn't go without his ring. Stephen's temples ached when he rolled his eyes at Wong's smug face. Never knew the no nonsense man could be so cheeky.
"Opening portals in public now? For someone to call me out for being reckless and breaking laws. You sure are becoming me." Wong obviously didn't like that comparison and looked for an easier way.
The two men went on their way to find a place where they could portal out discreetly, yes, some are aware of wizards existing but it's still risky to perform it in public frequently. Besides, sorcerers still need to keep a low profile from the public eye, their job is to protect not show off.
While New York's already busy as it is, bustling with many folks around. The two walked into an empty alleyway, Stephen at that point has his arms already hurting from some of the bags he's carrying.
Wong finally opened a portal to the Sanctum kitchen and stepped in. Putting the bags he carried on the kitchen table then helping Stephen's. And quickly shutting the portal close when they were done.
Stephen exhaled, it was tiring. He moves some of the bags from the table to the kitchen counter and begins to arrange which goes where once they'd take them out. And as he does so, Stephen looks to Wong.
It's silly but Stephen was troubled to ask. But he should . He wanted to ask Wong out for dinner, but why should he be troubled? They do it all the time. Perhaps he's afraid that he's wasting Wong's time?
"Wong?" He lets out. "Can we… get tuna melt, or Ben and Jerry's later?" Stephen asks, removing the groceries from the plastic bags, Wong was placing condiments, bread, snacks and round fruits on the table and Stephen putting eggs, meat, milk, and drinks in the fridge.
Wong scoffed, shaking his head. "I don't eat any of those anymore."
Stephen scoffs back. That's a surprise. "Since when?"
Wong pauses, and inhales. "... After the blip." Oh. Stephen remembered that he had promised him a tuna melt before disasters after disasters came down to New York and the entire universe.
"I can get you one. Like I promised."
"Thank you, but I'll pass." Stephen nods. Alright. He understands.
The two continued their work around the Sanctum kitchen. It's honestly a boring, normal day. Not that it's bad. Sometimes it's interesting when nothing happens. It's good. Just him and Wong.
When they were done, Wong was back in his sorcerer attire and was ready to return to Kamar-taj.
"Stephen?" Wong calls. Stephen then wondered when did Wong call him by his first name? It feels so oddly natural to the two of them to notice.
"Later tonight. Can you go out with me for dinner?"
Stephen paused. It shouldn't have surprised him. He had just asked Wong that.
"Sure." Is what he could say. "What time?"
"Somewhere in the evening. Is five okay?"
Somehow, Stephen's throat would refrain him from speaking. "Hm, we never ate out after sundown. Sure, where to?"
"Just be ready when I get back. I'll be paying for dinner."
"Oh?' Stephen smiled, it's rude to say out loud but he wondered if Wong had hit his head way too much or if this morning had put him in a good mood. "Okay, sounds good. The holidays have been kind to you this year?"
Wong rolled his eyes with a gentle smile on his face. " Stephen …"
"Okay, okay. Five this evening. Will be around the Sanctum as always."
Wong nodded at him with a conceited smile. Opening a portal and going on his way.
What a day.
Stephen thought, a smile still not leaving his face. He was feeling warm on his face and was feeling kind of funny.