Understanding
Ziggy
The Doctor strode down one of the TARDIS's corridors, his elderly face set in a frown. Now, where was that wayward granddaughter of his?
As he passed a slightly ajar door, he heard a muffled noise. He paused, then pushed open the door to enter the room. The first thing he noticed was the acrid smell, then his eyes fell on the blackened remains of some electronics and other gadgets on a worktable.
His "wayward" granddaughter sat at the workbench, head hung dejectedly. At his approach, Susan's head shot up, clearly showing tears running down her cheeks. She gasped when she realized who was standing before her, jumped to her feet and swallowed nervously.
"I'm sorry, Grandfather!" she apologized, not taking her eyes off the Doctor's impassive face. "I was only trying to help! I thought I understood what to do, but it obviously wasn't right and I ruined everything and I'm so sorry!"
The Doctor glanced at the ruined pieces on the table, then at his dear Susan's saddened countenance. His stern features softened as he stepped forward to gather the youngster into his embrace. "There, there, child, it's all right. No need to cry." He held her until her sobs quieted, then pulled back to look into her face. "Do you know how many things I've blown up in my day? Oh, my, I lost count centuries ago!" He gave her a soft smile, his eyes twinkling. "And since you're my granddaughter, I dare say this won't be the last time you do, either!"
Susan laughed, wiping the tears from her cheeks before drawing her beloved grandfather into another tight embrace.
3/10/08
1001 Whovian Nights drabble prompt: One shows his tender side with Susan. (ended up longer than 100 words, as you can see!)