I'm Here

DAKOTA

Tears blur my vision as panic claws at my senses. Dashiell's pain is evident all over his face. Coupled with the fact that he seems to be unable to heal himself while he coughs up blood, the situation is a crippling one. My breathing quickens, my heavy heart feeling like it's going to explode right out of my chest.

While I struggle to pinpoint the source of this escalating problem, I feel him hold my hand. I stare down at his trembling, bloodied fingers, which hold on to me. It isn't a cry for help. It is an assurance. Despite his pain, he is more concerned about me.

"Don't panic," I hear him croak. Wide-eyed, I look up to meet his gaze. Despite the pain in his eyes and the blood staining his mouth and jaw, there is warmth in his dual coloured eyes. One that assures me that everything is going to be alright. Despite myself, I believe him. Right in this moment, it's all I can do.

He coughs again, wincing in pain. He's panting hard, his chest heaving. Yet, he's trying so h