It was dim, a fog or smoke hanging low in the air, almost softening the screams but simultaneously exacerbating the panicked fleeing. It had to be smoke, Ianto decided, because there was a particular fiery glow reflected in the mist around him. He stood in the midst of it, unable to move, helplessly watching the destruction going on around him.

Within only moments, the screaming had faded far into the background, hardly audible anymore. It was darker now, but the air was clear. His breath caught on a half-sob as he tried to breathe normally.

"Are you ok?" Jack asked softly.

"Dream. Just a dream."

Jack's strong around wrapped around Ianto from behind. "You know you can talk about it if you want."

"Don't really. Just… I haven't thought about it in so long. The last time I was in London. The screams. I'll never forget it."

"Yeah. I know what you mean," Jack said sympathetically, holding Ianto closer. "I worried a bit about bringing you with me."

Ianto shook his head, though. "It's not as bad as it was before. It used to be every night. It helps not waking up alone."

'Say the word and you'd never have to wake up alone again,' Jack thought, stroking his fingers over Ianto's shoulder. "Trust me, I know that feeling very well," he said instead, kissing the back of Ianto's neck.

Ianto just reached up to hold Jack's hand against his shoulder and pressed back against him a bit, snuggling in. He didn't regret joining Jack in London for the U.N.I.T. conference, even if it had brought back memories of fleeing the battle of Canary Wharf. He had Jack with him, and everything would be alright.