@ghostories // @crownhcart
Trembling hands close weakly around Laurence's ankle, Lazaro seemingly so small and unimportant, kneeled at his feet, unable to look up at him. Because withdrawl makes him too worn out, because rising his gaze would be useless with his sight so blurred by addiction and the tears rolling down his cheeks. He makes himself even smaller, wrapped around his leg, willing to do anything to have a bit more, just a little more of blood. Does he needs to prove it? He will. He can do anything. Between the sobs, the air fills of timid kisses on the leather of his boot. ❛ you’re the one good thing left in this world. ❜ he murmurs, his voice so weak, a trembling mess. ❛ m-my only good thing left... ❜
Such a pitiful sigh, one that at first almost scares the Vicar, then makes his heart shrink.
It's always like this, when he meets some of the unfortunate victims of the Holy Blood - a medicine as wonderful as it was addicting, one that might make the strongest of men bend and lose control if left unchecked.
The man at his feet pleads, cries out, and all Laurence can do is lower himself, kneeling before the other, taking his face between his hands with the gentleness he'd use to hold a rare flower, lifting it slowly.
Never look down. Never act like a dog…!
"Both of us know this isn't true, my friend."
The Vicar's voice is firm, yet kind.
A hand still on the man's cheek, the other goes under his armpit, trying to lift him up.
"Come. Let's clean you up."