[This is set in the early stages of an established relationship]

John's eyes snap open, his brow damp with cold sweat. The bedsheet tangled around his feet, clamping him to the bed. The images from the nightmare still flashing through his head. Blood, a cold pavement, the empty ice blue eyes of his best friend.. the best friend that he loved a little too much.

His heart was racing and his was breath coming fast. In, out, in, out. "Calm down, it was just a dream.." He whispers to himself, barely audible.

John finally drifts back into reality and feels the familiar weight and heat of the body next to him. He turns so he is able to see Sherlock's face, his odd, unearthly face. Unconventionally beautiful. High cheekbones, lit by the cool moon shining through the window. Cupid's bow lips, pink and soft. That beautiful dark, curled hair; falling to frame the beautiful mans angular face in soft ringlets. A huge contrast to the harsh lines of his model-like bone structure.

Sherlock's eyes flutter open to reveal ice blue irises, flecked with light green and gold. He speaks softly, "Did you have another nightmare John?"

John replies with a simple, heavy hearted nod. Then raises his hand to stroke Sherlock's face, as if to check if it was all real, to check that he was still there.

"I'm here, John. I'm here" Sherlock whispers, and proceeds to gather John up into his long, slim arms. Hugging his muscly frame, memorising his comforting scent. Burrowing his head into John's neck and breathing in deep, to remind himself to never leave this man alone again.

John's deep blue eyes fill with tears as he clings onto the torso of the man he loves so dearly. His mind searching for something rational to say..nothing is produced. The tears finally stop, and they relax into each other.

They stay silent for what could be seconds, minutes or hours, completely content. John finally feels Sherlock's breathing become heavier, and finds himself drifting off himself. After a number of minutes the men are asleep, their bodies entwined. Comforting each other from the harsh reality of the past.