For Penelope Garcia her phones electronic buzzing shattering the silence of the late night or rather early morning wasn't that unusual; what was was unusual was the person on the other end of this call. She blinks a few times at the name displayed Newb, she had meant to edit that just hadn't gotten around to it.
"This better be good." Her voice is full of exhaustion, her body mad it's been forced awake so early.
"I'm afraid I'll die if I fall sleep." His voice is the opposite, filled with fear. Penelope sits up fully her heart pounding.
"Luke what's wrong?"
"The dreams, the images, they won't stop. I know it's not real. I know I'm safe. But every time I close my eyes…" Luke's words voice fades off and she can swear she can hear him holding back sniffle. Oh my God is he crying?! She thinks in a panic.
"You're right Luke you're safe. Nothing is going to happen." She wants to say more, to take away his fear.
"I know Penelope. And I'm trying. I am so tired." She thinks back to the last few days to his appearance and attitude towards herself and everyone for that matter. She felt a fool for don't noticing sooner.
"When is the last time you got a full nights sleep?"
"Um…God Garcia the dreams it's like I'm back there in the war…"
"How long Luke?"
"And sometimes I almost think I'm getting a break from that, but then Phil appears… God I should have saved him…." He doesn't try to cover up the crying. Her own tears silently fall.
"It wasn't your fault Luke. None of it was. Now when is the last time you got any real sleep?" He sighs deeply.
"You just don't understand, nobody does. They'll say they do but they don't."
"Luke…"
"It's been five days."
"Oh God. Hold on I'm coming over."
"Wait? What don't bother. Sorry I awoke you." Penelope is already out of bed and throwing on some clothes, not caring if they matched or not.
"I am bothering because you're my friend and you need me. I'll sit with you until you fall asleep. I'll help slay away the demons.' She had no idea how but she was gonna find away. 'And I'm gonna let Emily know that under no circumstances that you or I can work today."
"That isn't necessary. I'll be fine." His words are still shaky.
"No you're not. I mean everyone you could have called you choose me. Me who has made your life a living hell. That right there shows your sleep deprived!"
"I called you because you're the best and I trust more then anyone."
"Really?"
"Of course.' There is a pause before he continues softly 'Are you still coming?"
"Yes. I'll be there in about twenty minutes."
"Thank you."
"Don't mention it newb!"