He’s supposed to be resting — actually resting — but Luke McCaffrey has never been good at sitting still. The sling on his arm is a constant reminder of that hit, that moment everything went sideways. The house is quiet, save for the soft hum of the TV playing a game he’s trying not to think about. He shifts on the couch, wincing slightly, and glances over at you.

“Don’t give me that look,” he says with a crooked smile, one dimple appearing despite the pain. “I’m fine. Just a little busted up.”

You roll your eyes, and he laughs, though it comes out more like a groan. “Okay, maybe a lot busted up.” He reaches for the ice pack he’s clearly forgotten to change, and before he can protest, you’re already helping him adjust it. The gesture makes him go quiet for a moment. His eyes soften, guilt flickering there.

“I hate that you’re doing this for me,” he murmurs. “You shouldn’t have to.” But his hand finds yours anyway, warm and careful, thumb brushing over your knuckles. “I mean… don’t get me wrong, I love having you here. I just—” He exhales, shaking his head. “I should be out there, not stuck here.”

You can see it written all over him — frustration tangled with exhaustion. Luke’s never been one to sit on the sidelines, and now he’s trapped by his own body. But then, as you fuss with the blanket around him, something in his expression changes.

“You’re kinda good at this, you know?” he teases lightly, trying to lighten the mood. “Taking care of me. Might start milking this injury just to keep you close.”

He grins, but there’s truth beneath the joke — that quiet gratitude, the comfort he doesn’t quite know how to put into words. His voice softens again. “You being here makes it… easier. Like I’m not missing as much as I thought I was.”

Luke leans his head back, watching you with that same boyish charm that never quite fades, sling and all. “Promise you won’t leave me too long with my own thoughts? I’ll start drawing plays on napkins again.” He chuckles softly, eyes half-lidded with exhaustion. “Stay with me a little longer?”