Title: With a Kiss
Author: black_velvetband
Fandom: Lord of the Rings
Rating: PG for Cuddling
Disclaimer: I do not own Lord of the Rings, nor am I making any money…I am only playing.
Bunny: #17
Author Notes: Thank you as always to my ever Darling Dani for the super beta.

Never again. Never, ever again. It was meant to have been a simple enough endeavor.  A visit to his favorite childhood spot, a gift to celebrate Yule, all completed in time for that evening’s celebration. But as with many things, simple quickly became complicated.  A misplaced foot on wet stone, combined with reflexes slowed by a growing head cold, resulted in the two of them stranded beside that same childhood spot with night rapidly approaching. Given the state of his knee, he could not have made it anywhere without aid, and though his bonded insisted that the knock to his head was not serious, his uneven steps and slightly slurred speech convinced him that they were better off waiting for help to arrive.  

He maneuvered the best he could and slumped down next to his companion.

‘No use, elf, we’ll just have to hold out until help arrives.’

In lieu of response, the Blond’s head snapped forward ‘Ehhhh’ekchsss!’

The edges of the dwarf’s mouth quirked into a gentle smile. ‘Bless.’

Sniffling, the elf acknowledged the blessing and brought his fingers to trace the growing lump adorning his temple. In twilight’s shadows, it stood out in harsh contrast to his glowing skin. Sighing, he rubbed first his nose, then brought the heels of booth hands to his eyes and pressed. Studying him carefully, Gimli leaned forward to rummage through their meager supplies. Finding what he was looking for, he offered the vial to Legolas, who, removing his hands, blinked back tears from his red eyes.

‘I do not require that,’ he said sharply.

‘I think you do,’ Gimli replied, keeping his tone light. ‘Take it, love, I know your head aches and there is none here save myself and trees as witnesses’

Any further argument the prince may have made was cut short as he inhaled sharply and brought both hands to his face ‘Isshhh! Eh-ehehchuussh!  KehhShuushh!’ and winced after each onslaught.

‘For me, please, love,’ Gimli repeated, extending the vial again. With hands that were shaking slightly, the Blond took the vial and swallowed its contents without comment.

Sniffling again, he moved so his body was pressed closely against the dwarf’s, his head coming to rest against Gimli’s shoulder. Gimli reached up and stroked the fine hair and traced his fingers across the overly warm cheek.

‘All will be well shortly. Once the festivities have begun they will realize that we are not there, and they will send someone. ‘

‘I do not doubt it,’ Legolas murmured quietly, eyes beginning to drift closed.

Frowning at the state of his companion, Gimli reached into his breast pocket and withdrew a small cloth-wrapped parcel.

‘Love,’ he said gently, brushing a kiss against a perfect eyebrow. ‘You cannot sleep without your Yule gift.’

Wearily, the Blond’s eyes fluttered open, and he offered a soft smile. ‘There is naught I require, that you have not already given me’

Flushing at the compliment, Gimli tried again, ‘Take it, sweeting, if just to please me.’

Shifting slightly, the elf took the package, and with slightly fumbling fingers opened it, and realizing its contents, lifted his overly bright eyes to Gimli’s. ‘Gimli, I-’

He was answered with a kiss.