[ he relishes that comfort — nuzzles his face into her embrace, trying to capture every inkling of her warmth. her touch was real. different, but real. ]

I don’t know how the hell this happened, [ his palm settles over her black hand, and his fingers clasp around it as if to hold her against him. ] But I’ll be thankful for this miracle, this one time… [ his breath hitches on the verge of a sob — but he stops himself, and musters the strength to smile faintly. a light that has been smothered by the darkness, but has been revived with the smallest of embers. ]

…It’s been less time for me. I just… [ a breath. ] Lost my mind is all. But you’ve… you’ve been alone this whole time. [ again. he left her to be alone again. and despite everything — she forgives him. wants him. ] … I’m here now, Angela.