Iolaus counted stars, using the rhythm of Hercules' measured breaths. Ever since Iolaus had returned from his last death he'd had trouble falling asleep. At least he'd managed to feign sleep well enough to fool his friend.

He lost count again. The stars stared down at him, uneasy pinpricks of light in the long dark. Iolaus shivered and closed his eyes, then burrowed deeper into the blankets, seeking and finding warmth.

Hercules murmured into his hair, "You all right?"

Who did I think I was kidding? Iolaus thought, smiling, and pressed closer.

His smile faded. "I'm fine. Just cold."