#attempt failed

Abby is still fast asleep and he quickly checks the clock. 3:18, way too early.

He lies there for a bit, grateful he didn't accidentally wake up his wife and doesn't have to explain to her that he was dreaming about his coworker. Again.

He can feel a droplet of sweat running down from his hairline to his chin. It tickles but he doesn't wipe it away.

There's an urge he feels, a need to check in with Mel, make sure she's actually ok. It's stupid he knows, because why wouldn't she be? It's only a dream. She's probably sleeping now anyway.

But he's never been good at controlling his impulse and he picks up his phone from the nightstand, quickly typing a message.

He stares at it, still a bit dazed but hits send anyway, heart beating loud in his ears.

There is no immediate reply. Which makes sense, it is way too early and he's fucking stupid and she's most likely sleeping and -

Frank holds his breath, watching those three dots intently.

He does remember now that she mentions it, but the fear that had taken a hold of him made him unable to think clearly.

Frank looks at the smiley face she sent and he feels the tension seep out of his body.

She's okay.

He closes his eyes, and pictures her in his head. No more blood, no more pain, just beautiful happy alive Mel.