The look of surprise on the other's face caused Mashi to wonder if he was doing the right things once more. But as the other moved closer and nuzzled against his side allowing him to wrap an arm around him he was sure he was. He continued to pet Taiga's hair with his other hand and offer himself as a quiet comforting weight.<br/><br/>The touch of fingertips on his own scars caused him to frown softly. They were the worst one he had. He had many all over his body. A sigh escaped him as he wondered what the man next to him thought of this. Was it just the fever or something else?<br/><br/>The words while true stung his pride. He thought himself a better man than he was when he injured the other. The facts were still the same either way. He had done this to them.<br/><br/>The heat didn't bother him. As he helped the other cuddle in the covers mentally kicked himself for not keeping the bowl of water near and the cloth to bathe his brow. But he was sure the other was comfortable at this point. He held the other closer without a second thought as he allowed himself to close his eyes.