house of the sick au

[blondieburke]

When Juliet wakes up Emma for pre-school (the twins are getting so big), she knows right away that something just isn't right. She's burning up, for one, and her eyes are glassy and unfocused. And then, she throws up all over Juliet, so that confirms it. Her baby has the flu. It breaks her heart to see any of her kids sick, and especially Emma who'

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[hell_ofa_thing]

It works out well, because he was only scheduled to teach a morning class today, and the rest of his week is free. It's been nice, being home with the kids so much now, being able to help Juliet. They've all gotten closer now as well, simply because they can really be together as a family more. He gets home from the college quickly enough, and his heart just breaks when he walks in and sees his baby curled up on the couch. He'll make some soup - though only clear broth for now until he knows how well her stomach can take it - but for now, he knows she just wants cuddles. So he sits next to her on the couch and pulls her into his arms, stroking her hair back.

"Hey, baby. I'll be here all day with you."

[blondieburke]

Emma curls up right against his chest, and she's nearly crying as she speaks, not understanding why she feels like this.

"I feel bad, daddy," she whimpers, little face red and hot as she burrows against him.

[hell_ofa_thing]

"I know, angel. I'll make it better as much as I can." He should be able to just make it better, and it makes his heart ache that he can't. But he can give her as much love and attention as possible. His hands just soothe over her back, and he keeps stroking her hair. She's always a cuddle bug, but even moreso when she's sick, so he carries her while he gets a cool washcloth and strokes the cool cloth over her hot skin.

"What story do you wanna hear?" He carries her to her room, keeping her tucked protectively against his chest.

[blondieburke]

She's clinging to him, and in a pathetic, sad little whimper answers him.

"Free bears." Goldilocks and the Three Bears, it's currently her favorite story. Her fingers are clinging to him, and it's clear she doesn't plan on going anywhere any time soon.