Derek snorted, and Gus chose to believe it was because he was so damn funny and not because the healer didn’t agree with him. Just like he didn’t agree that water would fix whatever little issue this was, although he had a sinking feeling that he wasn’t going to be allowed to leave anytime soon. (Which was a shame because Gus really did want to head off to his next destination, although he really didn’t want to be left feeling like his skin was going to melt from his bones for the rest of his life.)

Blue eyes snapped up to Derek as he spoke rather cheerfully, which just made the redhead grind his teeth together as he reluctantly took the vial from him. He raised it so it was just in front of his face, the glass pinched between his thumb and forefinger like it might bite him if he wrapped his fingers around it. The liquid was almost clear with little bubbles in it, so it was impossible to tell if it was going to taste great or just…awful. Probably the latter, knowing Derek, although he was quick to confirm those thoughts.

Might as well get it over with. Gus uncorked the vial and tossed it back in one swift gulp before he immediately gagged at the taste. “What the hell McKinnon!” He swore, “That’s vile. Do you get joy from this?” He probably did because he was weird like that.

Gus paused to groan (why couldn’t Derek enchant it to taste like chocolate or mint or… something else?), but then he shifted uncomfortably on the edge of the bench like it was suddenly too hot to sit still. Which, judging by the sweat beading at his temple, it was. He swiped a sleeve across his brow before he leaned forward, nearly toppling off the edge of the bench; Gus caught himself before he managed to fall on his face.

“I swear I only looked at it.” The redhead mumbled, which of course was code for, I probably touched something I shouldn’t have, and now I’m stuck here.

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