#vallyn.

The phone rings once before the other side picks up and his chest heaves with relief at the familiar soft voice. “Hey there,” he murmurs into the receiver in an almost breathless tone. There is still the taste of fire on his tongue and although he inhales air, he still finds himself gasping; as if smoke fills his lungs instead.

“Allyn? Are you okay? I heard about the fire and━” Warm eyes flutter close and he smiles. He can imagine the delicate curve of her lips and her eyebrows as both concern and displeasure colors lissome features. A mother’s touch, he thinks when she repeats her questions. When he doesn’t answer her, she instructs him to breathe and he wheezes, but this time it’s out of laughter.

“Val, listen I’m fine.” A pause. “I’m fine, really.” He recites, voice firm to reassure Valerie he truly was. “I told you before didn’t I? I’m a hero and heroes don’t die.” Allyn chuckles into the silence. “Besides..I feel better now after talking to you.” And it’s not a lie or words of comfort this time, but the sincere truth.

I can breathe now.