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INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - MORNING
Alec is sitting on the sofa, looking absolutely terrible; his nose is red, his eyes are watery and he's very, very pale.
He has a thermometer in his mouth and doesn't seems particularly happy about it.
ALEC
'm fine...
Mark, sitting next to him, chuckles a little.
MARK
Yeah, right...
ALEC
's jus' a cold...
MARK
Sure.
ALEC
'm sur' I don' even hav' a f'ver.
MARK
(amused)
All right, babe... can you please try
not to talk for one minute?
Alec sighs deeply but complies.
When the thermometer finally beeps, Mark pulls it gently out of his mouth and checks it; 38.8°C.
ALEC
(weakly)
Well?
Mark gives him a soft look.
MARK
You have a fever, babe.
Alec moans and shakes his head.
ALEC
No, I... I'm fine, that thing must be
broken.
MARK
This thing works perfectly, and you
are not fine. Just call in sick...
ALEC
Wha- no, out of the question-
MARK
Babe-
ALEC
(weakly)
I am fine, it's just a cold, I-
He stands too quickly and his head spins, causing him to lose his balance.
Mark gets up immediately and wraps an arm around him, supporting him.
MARK
Okay, you are not going anywhere.
He helps him sit back down on the sofa. Alec moans again but lets himself be handled, way too weak to protest.
As soon as he touches the sofa he slumps against the corner.
ALEC
I can't stay home...
MARK
Well, you certainly can't go to work,
so... your options are limited.
Alec moans again.
ALEC
I have responsibilities...
Mark takes his phone from the coffee table.
MARK
Babe, you can't even stand...
He hands him the phone, smiling lovingly.
MARK
Call in sick, please.
Alec looks at the phone for a few seconds, then sighs and takes it, defeated.
Mark smiles more and leans forward, laying a sweet kiss on his hot forehead.
MARK
Good boy...
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - LATER
Alec changed into comfortable clothes.
He's snuggled up on the sofa, wrapped in a soft blanket and looking smaller than he actually is.
Mark comes into view at that moment, holding a packet of paracetamol and a big glass of water.
He sits down next to him and hands him the glass.
MARK
Here you go...
Alec takes it weakly.
ALEC
Thanks...
He coughs a little and swallows hard, grimacing slightly. Mark notices it.
MARK
How's your throat, babe?
ALEC
It's a bit sore...
Mark takes out two tablets of paracetamol from the packet and gives them to Alec, who puts them in his mouth and swallows them with some water.
Once done, Mark takes the glass from his hands and places it on the coffee table.
MARK
The fever should drop in the next
hour...
ALEC
Okay...
Alec snuggles up more on the sofa. Mark runs gently a hand through his hair.
MARK
I'm going to the pharmacy to buy a
few things, but I won't be long.
Alec frowns a little at that and gives him a questioning look.
ALEC
What do you mean?
MARK
I mean... there are things we need to
make you feel better, so-
ALEC
Don't you have to go to work?
Mark looks at him softly.
MARK
There is no way I'm leaving you home
alone in these conditions... I took
the day off.
Alec blinks a little and stares at him for a second, then his expression becomes suddenly very guilty.
ALEC
Mark, you don't have to-
MARK
I want to-
ALEC
There's no need, I promise you-
MARK
Babe, relax...
He runs sweetly a hand through his hair again.
MARK
I want to stay home with you.
ALEC
This is completely unnecessary, I
just have a bit of a fever-
MARK
Babe-
ALEC
I can look after myself, I am
perfectly able to-
MARK
(amused)
Alec, you can go on all day, it won't
make any difference.
He gets up and gives him a small kiss on his head.
MARK
(teasing)
I'm not going to change my mind, so
you might as well sit back and
surrender to my attentions, however
unwanted.
Alec sulks a little and curls up more on the sofa.
ALEC
(mumbling)
They are not unwanted... they're just
unnecessary.
Mark chuckles lightly at that.
MARK
Humor me, then...
Alec just mumbles something incomprehensible and wraps himself more tightly in the blanket.
CUT TO:
INT. PHARMACY - DAY
Mark is queuing to pay, waiting patiently for his turn to come.
He's holding several items: a throat spray, a packet of throat lozenges, a bottle of cough syrup, multivitamin and minerals tablets, ibuprofen, some more paracetamol...
When his phone rings, he pulls it out of his pocket and checks the screen, worried that it might be Alec feeling worse.
However, when he reads the name on the screen a vaguely confused expression appears on his face.
He picks up.
MARK
(on the phone)
Ellie?
INT. POLICE STATION, MAIN ROOM - SAME
Ellie walks across the room, holding the phone to her ear and sipping some coffee from a takeaway cup.
ELLIE
(on the phone)
He's texting me.
INTERCUT - INT. PHARMACY / INT. POLICE STATION - SAME
Mark takes a moment to process the information, then smiles a little to himself in amusement.
MARK
(on the phone, amused)
Is he now?
ELLIE
(on the phone, amused)
You may want to intervene.
Mark chuckles.
END INTERCUT.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - DAY
Alec is still curled up on the sofa, wrapped up in the blanket, looking terrible and weakly but persistently typing on his phone. He's texting Ellie.
ON THE PHONE:
... and remember to speak with that electrician, there's something off about him I think he's lying. And those records need to be rechecked. And someone needs to check on Mrs. Moore's neighbour. Also what happened to that camera? Did they find it? How longs is going to take to-
His busy typing is interrupted by an incoming call; it's Mark.
Alec picks up.
ALEC
(on the phone, weakly)
Hello...
EXT. PHARMACY - SAME
MARK
(on the phone, amused)
Stop texting Ellie.
INTERCUT - EXT. PHARMACY / INT. LIVING/DINING ROOM - SAME
Alec blushes at that.
ALEC
(awkwardly)
I... I'm not-
MARK
(amused)
Don't even try.
Alec moans and drops his head on the backrest.
ALEC
(weakly)
There are so many things to do-
MARK
And Ellie and the others will take
care of everything.
ALEC
They cannot afford to miss stuff-
MARK
They won't.
ALEC
They will-
MARK
They are perfectly capable-
ALEC
They become ridiculously sloppy and
inefficient if they are not supervised-
MARK
(teasing)
Does that include Ellie?
Beat.
ALEC
No, but-
MARK
There you go-
ALEC
But the rest of them-
MARK
(amused, patiently)
The rest of them will do exactly as
Ellie says and everything will be
under control.
ALEC
But-
MARK
No.
ALEC
What if-
MARK
No.
ALEC
Mark-
MARK
Babe... stop texting Ellie.
Beat.
ALEC
Fine...
MARK
(smiling)
Good. I'll be home soon.
Alec wraps himself more in the blanket.
ALEC
Okay...
MARK
I love you.
ALEC
Love you too.
Mark hangs up.
END INTERCUT.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - DAY
Alec lowers the phone and stares at it for a few seconds, then sighs deeply and drops it on the sofa.
CUT TO:
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - LATER
Mark is standing at the table, emptying the bag from the pharmacy.
Alec is leaning weakly against him, studying the items with interest.
ALEC
(teasing)
Did you rob the pharmacy?
MARK
(teasing back)
Have you looked at yourself in
the mirror?
Alec smiles lightly and rubs his face against his shoulder affectionately.
Mark wraps an arm around him and gives him a soft kiss on his forehead.
MARK
Do you feel like eating something?
Alec leans more against him and looks up at him.
ALEC
Not really...
MARK
How about a cup of tea?
Alec considers that for a moment, then nods.
ALEC
Okay-
MARK
And some biscuits.
Alec grimaces at that.
MARK
Just a few...
He runs sweetly a hand through his hair.
MARK
Please?
Alec leans instinctively against the gentle touch and nods again.
ALEC
All right.
Mark smiles and gives him a small peck on the tip of his nose.
MARK
Thank you.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - DAY
Mark is standing at the kitchen counter, making some tea.
A small plate with some biscuits is placed on one side.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - SAME
Alec is snuggled up on the sofa.
He is wrapped in the blanket and typing on his phone again.
ON THE PHONE:
... need to make sure we get those phone logs today. Can't waste any more time. How did the interrogation go? Do we know anything more about those train tickets? Should send Thompson to talk to the fisherman while you go to that meeting with SOCO...
Alec keeps typing. He's so focused on his phone that doesn't notice the sound of approaching steps.
ON THE PHONE:
... can't believe it took them so long. Need to get to the bottom of this. And any news about that bloody camera? Did the brother call back? We are going to need a warrant. I don't want this to be another-
A cup of tea and a plate with some biscuits are placed on the coffee table, causing Alec to jump in surprise.
He looks up to find Mark towering over him with an eloquent expression on his face.
MARK
Really?
Alec blushes a little.
Beat.
ALEC
I don't know what you're talking abo-
MARK
Okay, that's it.
Mark snatches the phone from his hands.
ALEC
No- hey!
Alec reaches out weakly to take the phone back, but with no success.
ALEC
Give it back.
MARK
Not a chance.
He puts the phone in his trouser pocket.
ALEC
Mark-
MARK
Drink your tea and eat your biscuits.
ALEC
Come on, don't treat me like a child.
MARK
Don't act like one.
Beat.
ALEC
I have responsibilities-
MARK
You are sick-
ALEC
Criminals don't take sick leave-
MARK
That's why you are not the only one
working at the police station-
ALEC
There is too much to do-
MARK
You need to learn to delegate-
ALEC
I can trust no one but Ellie!
MARK
And she's there-
ALEC
She can't do everything by herself-
MARK
The others will help-
ALEC
They won't-
MARK
You are being a little unfair-
ALEC
I'm being realistic-
MARK
Babe-
ALEC
They wouldn't find a piece of
evidence if it were slapped in their
face-
MARK
Alec-
ALEC
And we are going to waste so much
time-
MARK
Alec-
ALEC
And you expect me to just sit here
and-
MARK
Alec!
Alec jumps a little again.
ALEC
What?!
Mark sighs and gives him a soft, patient look.
MARK
Babe, you are sick. You need a few
days to recover... it's not the end
of the world.
Alec hesitates for a moment, looking suddenly a little embarrassed.
ALEC
I just...
(pause)
I don't like not knowing what's going
on.
MARK
I understand that, but you have to
trust the people you work with a
little bit more.
ALEC
(grumbling)
Yeah well, it would be a lot easier
if they weren't complete and utter
incomp-
MARK
Alec...
Alec shuts up and lowers his gaze a little.
ALEC
Fine.
MARK
Thank you.
Mark sits down next to him and points to the coffee table, where the tea and biscuits are waiting to be consumed.
MARK
Now eat...
Alec hesitates again, then leans towards the coffee table and takes the cup of tea and one biscuit, putting it into his mouth with no enthusiasm.
MARK
(smiling)
Well done.
ALEC
Can I have my phone back now?
MARK
No.
Alec sulks, which only causes Mark to chuckle in amusement.
CUT TO:
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - LATER
Mark is sitting on the sofa, while Alec is lying down on one side, with his head resting on his lap and the blanket draped over his body. Mark runs slowly a hand through his hair.
Inception is playing on TV, and Alec is clearly struggling to follow.
ALEC
I'm so confused... my head hurts.
MARK
(amused)
I told you it wasn't the best film to
watch with a fever of 39°C...
ALEC
38.5°C.
MARK
(teasing)
Oh my apologies, that changes
everything...
Alec stares at the screen and frowns a little.
ALEC
What dream level is this again?
MARK
The third one.
ALEC
Right...
(pause)
wait, isn't the Hotel level just
before this one?
MARK
Yes.
ALEC
But... that's the first level.
MARK
Nope, that's the second level.
ALEC
Which one is the first then?
MARK
The rainy city... the van.
ALEC
Oh... right...
Beat.
ALEC
Okay, maybe it wasn't the best film
to watch with a fever of 39°C.
MARK
(teasing)
I thought it was 38.5°C...
Alec moans and turns around, snuggling against him.
ALEC
Shut up...
Mark chuckles and keeps running gently his hand through his hair.
MARK
How about we pause it?
ALEC
No...
MARK
You look like you could use some
sleep.
ALEC
'm fine...
He cuddles up more against Mark, rubbing tenderly his face against his thigh.
ALEC
I want to know how it ends.
MARK
(amused)
You are not even watching.
ALEC
I'm listening.
MARK
Ah yes, notoriously the best way to
enjoy a film...
Alec chuckles weakly.
ALEC
You will fill in the blanks later...
MARK
Yeah, that won't happen...
Alec chuckles lightly again.
Mark smiles a little to himself and rests his hand on his forehead, gently running his thumb between his eyebrows and applying a light pressure.
Alec immediately moans at that.
Mark smiles more and repeats the gesture.
MARK
Do you like it?
Alec nods and lets out a relaxed sigh.
ALEC
Yes... so much. It relieves my
headache...
Mark nods and continues to massage him slowly. Alec moans softly and snuggles more against him, enjoying deeply the soothing touch and the warmth coming from his firm body.
ALEC
God... you are so good at this...
Mark smiles more to himself.
MARK
I'm glad you're enjoying it.
ALEC
Mmmh... you have no idea...
Mark continues to massage him sweetly, looking down at him with deep love and enjoying his relaxed sighs.
CUT TO:
INT. MARK'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - EVENING
Alec is sitting at the table, looking pale and weak.
Mark comes into view at that moment and places a nice, steaming bowl of soup in front of him.
MARK
Here you go...
He hands him a spoon, which Alec takes weakly, then gives him a small kiss on his forehead and sits down next to him.
ALEC
Thanks...
Alec studies the soup for a few seconds, then dips the spoon in and stirs a little, hesitantly. He doesn't start eating.
Mark gives him a questioning look.
MARK
Is everything okay, babe?
Alec looks up at him and nods.
ALEC
Yes, sorry... it's just...
(pause)
I'm sorry, I don't think I can
eat it.
Mark raises his eyebrows at that.
MARK
All right, I get that I was the one
who made it, but I don’t think it’s
that bad...
Alec manages a small, amused smile at that.
ALEC
That's not what I meant... I'm sure
it's delicious.
MARK
(softly)
What's the problem then?
Alec sighs a little.
ALEC
My stomach feels a bit... funny.
MARK
(teasing)
Maybe your stomach feels a bit funny
because you've only had two biscuits
all day...
Alec grimaces a little.
ALEC
I don't know...
He looks down at the soup, without touching it.
Mark sighs a little and gives him a soft look. He raises his hand and caresses his cheek sweetly.
MARK
Babe, you need to eat something...
Alec grimaces again, not looking particularly convinced.
MARK
Just a little, you don't have to
clean your plate.
Alec sighs and considers that, then nods.
ALEC
Yeah, okay... you're right...
He stirs the soup one more time, then lifts a spoonful to his mouth and starts to eat.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, ENSUITE BATHROOM - NIGHT
Alec is on his knees in front of the toilet, throwing up the little bit of food he managed to eat, while Mark is crouched next to him soothingly massaging his back.
ALEC
(panting, weakly)
Oh- God-
MARK
It's all right, babe...
Alec coughs and retches, gasping between gags.
ALEC
(panting, weakly)
Mark...
MARK
Yes...
ALEC
(panting, gagging)
I- 'm sorry-
Mark frowns a little, continuing to massage his back slowly.
MARK
For what?
ALEC
(panting, weakly)
Wastin'- your- soup-
He retches again, coughing and panting.
Mark can't stop a small smile from appearing on his face.
MARK
Babe, I think you have more pressing
matters to worry about right now...
ALEC
(panting, weakly)
I swear- 't was del'cious-
He retches, coughing again through the gags.
Mark does his best to suppress an amused smile and keeps stroking his back soothingly.
MARK
Alright thank you, I'm glad...
Alec continues to spasm and dry heave.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - NIGHT
The clock on the bedside table marks 3:08am.
Alec is lying in bed, looking completely wrecked; he's terribly pale, shivering, with his eyes closed but clearly more delirious than asleep.
ALEC
(mumbling)
...not that bad... already feelin'
better...
A light beeping sound can suddenly be heard.
Mark comes into view and sits next to him. He gently pulls the thermometer out from under his armpit and silences it, checking the temperature; 39.3°C.
He sighs deeply and grabs the packet of paracetamol from the bedside table.
MARK
Babe...
ALEC
(weakly)
Mmh?
MARK
You need to take more paracetamol,
your fever has gone up again.
ALEC
(weakly)
Mmmh nah... 'm fine...
MARK
You are not fine, we need to get your
temperature down.
ALEC
(weakly)
's not necessary- you... worry t'
much...
Mark takes two tablets from the packet.
MARK
I worry just enough... now, come
here...
He slides a hand under Alec's shoulders and gently pulls him up, helping him sit up.
Alec moans but lets himself be guided into a sitting position, opening his eyes a little.
MARK
Here...
Mark puts the two tablets in his hand and takes the glass of water from the bedside table.
MARK
Go on, babe...
Alec glances at the tablets, then looks back up at him.
ALEC
(weakly)
Mmmh... they're t' big...
MARK
I can cut them in half babe, but then
you'll have to swallow down four
pieces instead of two...
Alec grimaces at the idea.
ALEC
(weakly)
Nnnnah...
MARK
Okay, then... take the two tablets.
Alec studies the tablets for a few seconds, then looks back at Mark and scrutinises him carefully.
Mark gives him a questioning look.
MARK
What?
Alec keeps staring at him, then tries a small smile.
ALEC
(weakly)
Y're so handsome...
Mark raises his eyebrows at that and smiles in amusement.
MARK
Well, thank you-
ALEC
(weakly)
I love you s' much...
MARK
I love you too, sweet thing. But now
you need to take your-
ALEC
(weakly)
'nd you're so big... I like it that
y're so big...
Mark gives him an even more amused look at that.
MARK
Babe... you're a bit delirious. We
really need to get your fever down-
ALEC
(weakly)
'm not delirious- 'm not- 'm just
sayin' y're handsome... and big...
huge- those 're jus' facts...
MARK
(amused)
Okay-
ALEC
(weakly)
Jus' facts...
MARK
(amused)
Alright babe... could you please take
those two tablets now?
Alec looks back at the tablets, then shakes his head.
ALEC
(weakly)
Nnnah... 'm fine...
Mark sighs and looks at him softly.
MARK
(patiently)
Alec, please take the paracetamol.
ALEC
(weakly)
What 'f I throw up?
MARK
Are you feeling nauseous again?
Alec seems to think about that for a moment.
ALEC
(weakly)
No...
MARK
Okay... then I guess you'll be fine.
Could you please take the tablets?
ALEC
(weakly, not convinced)
Mmmh... 'd rather not.
MARK
God, you're stubborn.
ALEC
Y're handsome...
Mark chuckles lightly and shakes his head to himself.
MARK
All right, come on-
ALEC
(weakly)
I can't...
MARK
Yes, you can.
ALEC
(weakly)
I need water t' swallo' them...
Mark raises the glass of water he's holding.
MARK
Here's the water-
ALEC
(weakly)
Can't drink...
MARK
What do you mean?
ALEC
If I drink t' much water, I have
t' pee.
MARK
What's wrong with that?
ALEC
(weakly)
Mmmh- don't think I can stand up...
Mark gives him a soft look.
MARK
If you need to go, I’ll help you.
ALEC
(weakly)
That's out 'f the question...
MARK
Why?
ALEC
(weakly)
'cause it's embarr'ssin'...
MARK
Well, if you can't stand up someone
will have to give you a hand, don't
you think?
Alec considers that for a moment, then shakes his head.
ALEC
(weakly)
I'll jus'... I won't drink...
Mark sighs deeply and passes tiredly a hand over his face.
MARK
Babe... we need to get your
temperature down.
ALEC
(weakly, stubbornly)
'll go down ev'ntually...
Mark ponders the situation for a few seconds, then tries something else.
MARK
I thought you wanted to go back
to work...
Alec looks at him at that.
ALEC
(weakly)
I do...
MARK
If you don't take medication it's
going to take longer for you to feel
well enough to return to work...
Alec stares at him for a few seconds, considering, then glances back at the tablets and snorts.
ALEC
Fine...
Mark sighs in relief.
MARK
Thank you.
ALEC
(weakly)
But 'll proba'ly have t' pee...
MARK
It's fine-
ALEC
(weakly)
'nd I can't stand up-
MARK
Don't worry about that for now.
ALEC
(weakly)
Mmmh... 'kay...
He puts the tablets in his mouth and swallows them with the glass of water Mark offers him.
Once done, he lies back down with a soft moan.
ALEC
(weakly)
There... done...
Mark smiles and gives him a sweet kiss on his forehead.
MARK
Well done.
He covers him lovingly with the blankets and makes sure he's comfortable.
Alec looks at him, blinking tiredly.
ALEC
(weakly)
Mark?
MARK
Yes, babe?
Beat.
ALEC
(weakly)
C'n I have m' phone back now?
Mark can't help but chuckle lightly at that.
MARK
(amused)
Go to sleep...
Alec grumbles something incomprehensible and closes his eyes.
CUT TO:
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - MORNING
The clock on the bedside table marks 8:12am.
Alec is lying on his side, wrapped in the blankets.
He slowly opens his eyes and blinks a little as his surroundings begin to come into focus. He passes tiredly a hand over his face and moans softly; he still looks terrible but the constant shivering is gone.
Mark comes into view at that moment.
MARK
(smiling)
Oh, look who's back among us.
He sits down on the edge of the mattress, next to him.
Alec gives him a tired, yet soft look.
ALEC
(weakly)
Hi...
Mark leans forward and gives him a sweet kiss on his forehead. Alec is not burning up anymore, but he's still hot.
MARK
How do you feel, sweet thing?
ALEC
(weakly)
Uhm... not so great.
Mark nods a little to himself and strokes his cheek lovingly.
MARK
Yeah... you were pretty sick last
night.
ALEC
Yes, I remember throwing up...
MARK
It didn't get much better from
there... you were a bit delirious.
Alec blinks a little a that.
ALEC
Was I?
Mark smiles in amusement.
MARK
Yes...
He runs gently a hand through his hair, then glances at the clock on the bedside table.
MARK
Listen, it's still pretty early...
why don't you get some more sleep?
Alec seems to think about it for a few seconds.
He hesitates.
MARK
What?
ALEC
I, uhm... I was actually thinking
that I could take a shower.
MARK
A shower?
ALEC
Yeah...
Mark gives him a vaguely concerned look at that.
MARK
Do you think it's a good idea?
ALEC
(unsure)
Uhm... I feel a little weak, but...
(pause)
well, I'm not sure about the delirium
bit, but I do remember being sprawled
on the bathroom floor and hugging the
toilet, so...
Mark considers that for a moment.
MARK
How about I run you a hot bath
instead? Just so you don’t get dizzy,
pass out, and knock out all your
front teeth...
Alec manages a small, amused smile at that and nods.
ALEC
Okay...
MARK
(pleased)
Good.
Mark gives him a little boop on his nose an gets up.
MARK
(teasing)
Glad to see that you're more
cooperative when your fever's not
that high...
Alec looks at him in confusion at that, but doesn't have time to ask for clarification as Mark gives him an amused look and leaves the room.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - DAY
Mark and Alec are comfortably sitting on the sofa.
Mark is leaning against the corner, while Alec is snuggled up against him; although his soft, freshly washed hair and relaxed expression show that he’s had a very nice hot bath, he still looks pale and weak.
Dangerous Liaisons is playing on TV; Valmont is writing a manipulative and insincere letter using the naked body of the courtesan Émilie as a writing desk, much to the amusement of both.
Alec stares at the screen with interest.
ALEC
(weakly)
John Malkovich is strangely... hot...
in this film.
Mark chuckles lightly and nods.
MARK
Yes, I agree. You should see him in
Mary Reilly...
ALEC
What kind of character does he play
in it?
MARK
Both Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
ALEC
Oh... that sounds interesting.
MARK
It is. He's very convincing as
Mr. Hyde...
ALEC
(weakly)
Mmh... I see...
Suddenly, Alec begins to cough; it is a chesty cough, and leaves him a little breathless.
MARK
Hey...
Mark brings two fingers under his chin and makes him lift his face a little.
MARK
Did you take your cough syrup,
babe?
Alec shakes his head a little.
ALEC
Uhm... not yet.
MARK
Okay... wait here, I'll get it for
you.
Mark starts to get up from the sofa, but Alec immediately lets out an unhappy moan and snuggles up even closer to him, preventing him from moving any further.
ALEC
Mmhnnno...
MARK
What do you mean no?
Alec wraps his arms more around him and hides his face in the crook of his neck.
ALEC
(weakly)
Don't leave...
MARK
Babe-
ALEC
(weakly)
Please...
MARK
(softly)
I'm not leaving, I just need to go to
the kitchen one second-
ALEC
Mmmh... no...
MARK
(teasing)
What's going on, are you delirious
again?
Alec frowns at that and gives him an almost offended look.
ALEC
(weakly)
I'm not delirious... I just...
He cuddles up more against him, rubbing his face against his shoulder.
ALEC
Don't want you to get up...
MARK
(patiently)
Babe... I need to get your cough
syrup-
ALEC
(weakly)
Later...
MARK
No, now-
ALEC
No...
He tightens his grip around him, rubbing his face against his shoulder again.
MARK
Alright, well... in this case...
Mark slips an arm under his legs and suddenly scoops him up, getting up from the sofa and holding him bridal style.
Alec gasps a little and wraps instinctively his arms tightly around his neck.
ALEC
What are you doing?
MARK
Taking you to the kitchen...
Alec moans softly at that, clearly not happy to be taken away from the warmth of the sofa, but undoubtedly glad to still be in Mark's arms.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Mark reaches the kitchen counter and sits Alec on it, giving him a sweet kiss on his cheek and managing to gently untangle his arms from around his neck.
Alec lets him, but not without giving him a slightly a displeased look.
ALEC
(weakly)
It could have waited...
MARK
It will take one second.
Mark opens a cupboard and takes out the cough syrup. He carefully pours the recommended dose onto a spoon and then turns towards Alec.
MARK
Open your mouth, kitty...
Alec blushes a little at the pet name and complies. He takes the spoon into his mouth and swallows the thick liquid, grimacing in disgust.
ALEC
God- it's awful...
MARK
I know, but it's good for you...
ALEC
It makes me want to throw up again...
MARK
(amused)
I'm sure you'll be fine.
ALEC
(grumbling)
I don't know about that...
Mark chuckles a little at how dramatic he is and puts the cough syrup away.
When he turns around, he notices that Alec is staring at the hob.
MARK
Everything okay?
Alec looks back at him and wrings his hands slightly.
ALEC
Yes, uhm... I was just...
(pause)
can I have some tea, please?
Mark gives him a soft smile.
MARK
Yes, of course.
He takes the kettle and goes to the sink to fill it.
ALEC
No, wait...
Mark stops and looks at him.
ALEC
Uhm... some toast.
MARK
Okay, sure.
He leaves the kettle on the counter and goes to open the cupboard to take some bread.
ALEC
No... not toast...
Mark stops again and looks back at him.
ALEC
Uhm... maybe pancakes. Yes, can I
have some pancakes?
MARK
Yes babe, no problem-
ALEC
Or actually...
Mark stops for the third time, looking at him with a mix of amusement, fondness, and a hint of exasperation.
ALEC
Do we have cake?
MARK
(sweetly)
No, but I can go to-
ALEC
Ah, you know what? Just tea is fine.
Mark studies him.
MARK
You sure?
Alec thinks about it.
ALEC
Yeah...
Mark smiles a little to himself and nods.
MARK
Okay.
He takes the kettle again.
Beat.
ALEC
And some biscuits.
CUT TO:
TWO DAYS LATER.
INT. MARK'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - EVENING
Alec is sitting at the table, looking much better.
He's holding the thermometer and checking the small display; his temperature is back to normal.
He sighs in relief and slumps relaxed into the chair.
Mark comes in from another room at that moment.
MARK
All good?
Alec looks up at him and smiles.
ALEC
Yes... no more fever.
MARK
Ah, great!
ALEC
Yeah, it seems that I'll live.
Mark chuckles and caresses his cheek lovingly, then walks towards the sofa.
MARK
Good.
Alec follows him with his eyes and studies him for a moment, then clears his throat.
ALEC
So... what do you think?
Mark drops on the sofa and gives him a questioning look.
MARK
About what?
ALEC
Can I have my phone back now?
Mark smirks at that and pretends to think about it.
MARK
Mmmh, let's see...
Alec gives him an amused look.
ALEC
Mark-
MARK
Yeah, sure...
He pulls Alec's phone out of his trouser pocket and holds it up.
MARK
Come and get it.
Alec smiles more and gets immediately up from the chair. He reaches him and tries to take the phone from his hand, but Mark moves his hand further away just before he could grab it.
ALEC
Oh, come on-
MARK
(teasing)
It's right here, what are you waiting
for?
Alec smiles more and leans forward again, trying to get the phone.
Mark moves his hand.
Alec climbs onto the sofa - and partially onto Mark - and tries again.
ALEC
(amused)
Stop- give it to me-
MARK
(teasing)
I am giving it to you-
ALEC
(amused)
Mark-
MARK
(amused)
You just have to take it-
ALEC
(chuckling)
Fuck off-
Alec climbs completely on top of him, grabbing his strong arm and trying his best to take the phone from his hand.
Mark chuckles and wraps his other arm around him, pulling him down and holding him close, kissing him lovingly on his head.
MARK
Here...
He finally hands him the phone.
Alec takes it with an amused smile and snuggles more comfortably on top of him, leaning against his broad chest.
Mark wraps his arms around him and holds him closer.
ALEC
Okay, let's see...
He starts checking his phone.
After a few seconds, the smile on his face fades and his expression changes to something between annoyance and disappointment.
ALEC
Wait- seriously?!
MARK
What?
Alec looks up at him.
ALEC
No calls and no texts. Like...
at all!
MARK
Well, people knew you were sick. They
probably didn't want to disturb-
ALEC
Not even one!
MARK
They wrote to me for updates and-
ALEC
Who wrote to you?
MARK
Everyone. Ellie, Laura, Fred-
ALEC
I've been away from work for four
days...
MARK
(teasing)
Well, this is proof that you can
actually afford to be sick. Isn't it
great?
ALEC
(grumbling)
Shut up...
Mark chuckles and holds him closer.
ALEC
It would have been nice to have at
least an update on the situation...
so I know what to expect tomorrow...
I don't know, maybe a little report-
MARK
No-one would do that...
ALEC
I would!
MARK
You would send a report to someone
who's been sick for a couple of days?
ALEC
Four days! And yes! Now I have to go
to the station without having the
faintest idea of what's happened
while I wasn't there-
MARK
I'm pretty sure Ellie will update you
on everything when she sees you
there.
ALEC
It would have been nice to know in
advance.
MARK
You are technically still on sick
leave-
ALEC
I don't like not knowing things!
Mark chuckles a little and shakes his head to himself.
MARK
Yeah, you're definitely feeling
better...
Alec looks up at him with a vaguely defiant look.
ALEC
Meaning?
MARK
That you are yourself again.
ALEC
(teasing)
Oh, you mean disciplined?
MARK
(teasing back)
No, I mean a pain in the ass.
Alec does his best to suppress an amused smile.
ALEC
I prefer disciplined.
MARK
Of course you do.
Alec chuckles a little and snuggles more against him.
There is a moment of comforting silence between them, then Alec looks up at him again.
ALEC
Thank you for taking care of me...
Mark gives him a soft look at that.
MARK
You don't have to thank me,
sweet thing.
ALEC
Yes, I do... you are a very good
nurse.
MARK
Okay, thank you...
(pause)
you're a very good patient.
Alec studies him.
Beat.
ALEC
You don't actually think that-
MARK
(amused)
Just take it babe, I'm trying to
be nice.
Alec chuckles and wraps his arms around his neck, hugging him tightly.
ALEC
I love you...
Mark holds him closer and nuzzles his nose.
MARK
I love you too, sweet thing.
They kiss, slowly and sweetly.
When they part, Mark smiles more and leans his forehead against his.
MARK
I missed kissing you...
ALEC
I missed it too...
They exchange another soft kiss, then Alec suddenly pulls back and gives him a concerned look.
ALEC
Do you think it's safe now? Kissing?
MARK
I'm sure it is-
ALEC
What if you get sick?
MARK
I won't.
He pulls him closer and kisses him again.
CUT TO:
TOTAL BLACK.
Silence.
Then, a familiar beeping sound.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - DAY
Mark, sitting on the edge of the bed and looking absolutely terrible, stares at the thermometer with a defeated expression on his face.
The thermometer reads 39.5°C.
Mark closes his eyes and sighs.
MARK
Fuck me...
FADE TO BLACK
THE END