#clap back

“I know you miss these pillowcases.” You tease, grabbing a pillow and tossing one his way. “It’s getting late. I stayed up with you just to see what’ll happen, and you kept yourself awake. That’s not healthy, Jabber.”

“I know,” He sucks in a breath. His ringed fingers comb his locs from in front of his face to the back of his head. “I’m just— nervous.”

You hum in acknowledgment, though unsure what exactly has Jabber so jittery. “Would it be helpful if we kept the lights on?”

“Can we try that?” The words ramble from his lips before Jabber even has a chance to realize it. “That would be dope, I mean.”

His bright, purple irises watch intently as you click off your bedside lamp and leave his on. Admittedly, the warmth of the light envelops him in a small ounce of comfort.

“Come on, Jabber. I’m sleepy.”

A sighs puffs from Jabber’s nostrils. Fine. He tosses you the pillow, making his way up the bed beside you. Carefully, he tosses the duvet over his cool frame and tries his best to melt into the pillows, mattress, and comforting scent of you.

It’s difficult, though.

“Alright, talk to me.” You smile softly, scooting close enough to Jabber to take his face into your hand. “Hm? What’s the matter? I hate seeing you so…disoriented.”

Jabber swallows thickly, fingers twiddling against each other while he struggles to find his words. Maybe speaking about it will help him overcome the presence of what’s keeping him up at night. With a deep breath, Jabber’s eyes meet yours. “Promise you won’t laugh?”

“Pinky promise.” You hold up your finger, intertwining it with his in a tight lock.

His focus turns to the ceiling. He’s a bit embarrassed, but he knows he can tell you any and everything. You’re always so supportive, compassionate, and kind.

“Well, as you know I’ve been struggling to fall asleep these past couple of nights.” Jabber rubs at his eyes, the now-foreign feeling of sleep threatening to overcome him. “It’s been tough.”

“I’m listening, honey.” Your index finger runs along the sharp edge of his jaw at a pace he can only describe as soothing. Your touch is like magic, pulling every negative emotion from his body and discarding it for the crows to scavenge.

“Y/n, when I close my eyes…I can’t see.”

Silence

“I— can’t see when I close my eyes.”

“Jabber, go the bed. Now.”

he’s not from NY in this one