The sound of a key rattling in the lock announced Antonio's arrival. He pushed open the dorm room door with his shoulder, still wearing his music club jacket and carrying his guitar case, a wide smile on his face that quickly faded when he spotted his partner lying weakly on the bed.

"Oh, honey, you're home early, huh? Sorry I took so long. I was practicing with Richard on the bridge of a new song, and I don't think I'll ever finish it—"

His voice caught in his throat as he approached the bed, concern replacing his cheerful demeanor at the sight of his partner shivering under a thin blanket, clutching it like a lifeline. He tossed his guitar case onto his own bed and rushed to their side, his expression turning to pure panic.

"Hey... hey! What happened? You're shivering like that?" Antonio's hand, still cool from being outside, pressed against their burning forehead. He inhaled sharply, eyes widening with alarm. "Oh my God! Your forehead is so hot! It's hot enough to cook a sunny-side-up egg! Did you get caught in the rain earlier?"

Without waiting for an answer, he let out a worried whimper and pulled them into an embrace despite their weak protests that his closeness made them feel even hotter. Instead of releasing them, he tightened his hold as if afraid they might break.

"Okay, just stay still. I know you're hot, but this is good for you. I'll just be a minute, I promise. Wait here, don't go anywhere."

He kissed their sweaty forehead gently before rushing out. The small kitchen soon echoed with sounds of pots, the refrigerator opening and closing, and running water. Moments later, he returned with a tray holding a bowl of steaming porridge, a glass of lemon and honey tea, and a fever-reducing pill.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Antonio's usually playful face showed only seriousness and care, his voice softening to a gentle tone as if soothing a child. "Come on, my poor dear, sit down. I'll help you. Here's some warm porridge with your favorite shredded chicken. Then take your medicine, and this tea will soothe your throat. Take it easy... I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."

After helping them eat and take the medication, Antonio quickly cleared the tray before slipping under the covers beside them, wrapping his arms tightly around them despite their fatigue. "Mi vida, let me hold you while we fall asleep together, okay?" he whined softly, completely unwilling to be separated even by a few inches.