Nick had stumbled through darkness, and mud, and twigs. His battered body bleeding and swelling with bruises. After his disappearance he could do nothing but watch and wait patiently. He felt himself go to all the familiar places. One in particular meant more than others. Nick found himself standing at the foot of Pete's bed. Pete was nearly half asleep, but still awake.
"I'm sorry..." he heard Pete sob. "I'm so sorry."
The word hung heavy in the air. Pete's face was contorted in a pain ridden frown, tears welling up quietly in his eyes. Nick was at the side of the bed, kneeling down in front of Pete's face.
"Pete," Nick whispered. "I'm dying..."
Nick's hand hovered over Pete's face and his lips ghosted over his friend's to plant a tingling phantom kiss. Pete's eyes opened, but no one was there.
"Nick..."