Very short but was in my head when I woke up this morning.
Direct pick up from the end of 9.8
Harry stood on the rooftop, he slid the phone into his pocket and wondered if this was finally his end.
His head was lowered and he failed to notice her as she stepped alongside him.
"Harry?"
"There's to be an inquiry. Into Albany. Into me."
They stood in silence, staring at the city.
She felt the tears begin to slide down her face. It was her fault. He had done this for her and all she had done for him was reject him and give him no hope.
He eventually glanced to his right and saw her face shine in the light, her cheeks were glistening and then he knew they were tears.
"Ruth?" he turned to her, filled with concern.
A moment and then she too turned to him. Her lip quivered and the tears continued to flow.
He hesitated, instinctively wanting to comfort her but he stood still, saying nothing, daring nothing.
They seemed frozen in the night, both trapped in their own pain, both seeking solace.
And then she did it. She took an imperceptibly small step towards him but it was enough.
"Ruth," he said his heart bursting.
She reached her arms out and buried her face in his chest. His arms surrounded her and he held her hard, his hand gently stroking the back of her head. His eyes closed as he soaked in her warmth, her touch, her.
He had waited so long.
She had refused herself him for so long.
He could feel her sobbing against his chest and she could feel his heart racing.
Once more they stood frozen in the night, not letting go.
Now he stood on the rooftop and wondered if , instead of his end, this was his beginning.