Ashrik didn't know how long he had sat by Lucille's side, only that the world beyond the room had ceased to matter. Time blurred, following the soft rhythm of her breathing.
Dobby and Ponyo curled up on the floor, their round eyes watching the sleeping Lucille. They occasionally gazed at Ashrik, whose fingers remained wrapped around her hand.
Even long after his silent tears had dried, he was still unwilling to let go. He had even feigned ignorance of the weight of exhaustion that had already crushed on his shoulders long before.
Hazel and Regina had come checking twice. Both times, they persuaded him to leave Lucille with them. And both times, he refused.
"Woof."
Ponyo nudged Ashrik, her tongue licking the pant of his leg. He cast a glance at the white dog, forcing a faint smile on his lips. But it didn't reach his eyes.
"I'm fine," Ashrik replied, his voice hoarser. He coughed slightly, feeling how parched his throat was.
"Woof."
