Not Alone

Hunter listened quietly, noting how scared Ryan sounded. This really was an issue and nothing to poke fun about. Tightening his arms a little, he gave her a small squeeze. "You're not alone," he assured gently. "It's just a bad dream playing on your fears."

He closed his eyes before kissing the top of her head. "Besides... I'm not going anywhere," he whispered. He swallowed hard. Were his feelings really okay like Mick had said? Surely Ryan was here only because she was frightened. She wouldn't always be. And then she'd be the one walking away, not him.

"People leaving really does suck," he agreed knowingly. Boy did he know. "But you can't just assume everybody's gonna walk away. 'Cause some people are just..." He sighed. Too far gone. "Too stubborn." 

He slid down a little, keeping her nestled in his chest. "Just try to sleep, okay? Don't think about tomorrow. Just think about right now. Where you're safe. And not alone."


Hal's smile widened as he looked down at Sam. "Good. 'Cause I brought enough for the both of us."

He grabbed his chair and sat down before opening the bag. "You know. Kind of a... thanks... for just being... you."