A red dot came to rest on Helena's chest, unnoticed by her but detected by her companion. Purely on instinct, Myka turned, stepping in front of Helena as a blast split the air. For a tiny moment their eyes locked. Forest stared into shadow. One pair saddened, the other in shock. Then a blow with the force of a sledgehammer slammed into Myka, throwing her head backwards and causing her body to arch uncontrollably. A sharp cry ripped itself from her throat and eyes slammed shut in pain. Another voice was screaming, but was hardly registered. In slow motion she collapsed, but before hitting the floor, strong arms wrapped around her upper body and gently lowered her into another's lap.

Myka! Oh God. Please no. Myka can you hear me? Thankfully hazy green eyes fluttered open, but Helena's body iced over when taking in the sight of the woman she was so desperately drawn to.

Pupils unnaturally dilated.
Shallow gasps as lungs strained for air in vain.
Eyes leaking of their own volition.
Body still arching, wishing to rid itself of the unthinkable invasion.

You stay with me, alright? Myka searched Helena's eyes, saw her pain reflected with such intensity, for a second she lost what little breath she had. Somehow she was able to lift a weak hand and trace a finger around the corner of those tender lips.

Helena, she whispered.

Fight this, Myka. Stay with me. We have so much more life to live. Her voice broke and a sob escaped her chest.

Myka struggled to form words. Helena, I… I am so sorry. Do you know how much I love you? But to stem Myka's approaching goodbye, Helena leaned down and brushed her lips against her love's, lingering there before whispering As I love you. Tears slipped from her own eyelashes to Myka's where they intertwined. She cradled the younger woman's head into her chest.

Myka didn't hurt anymore. In Helena's embrace, encased in dark hair, listening to the beat of that wondrous heart, she was home, and sighed in relief.

Feeling the exhale, Helena's chest seized and she lowered Myka to her lap again, registering the stillness. Her already tattered heart shred itself to pieces. Myka? Myka look at me!

But Myka Bering's eyes remained closed.


A young girl with thick black hair and eyes the color of shadow smiled at her, held out her hand. Myka took it.