Some distant corner of his more-than-capable mind was actively aware of the sound of converse slapping against the pavement, of the air rushing in and out of his lungs, of the rapid beating of his hearts. The rest of his thoughts were focused firmly on the woman in front of him.
Rose.
It was impossible, he knew, or he had when he'd had the ability to think properly, but there she was, beaming at him, blonde hair flying as she ran to meet him. If she hadn't broken eye contact, he might not have seen the Dalek at all.
A flash of light, searing pain, and he found himself looking up from the ground, his head cradled by a hand he'd long needed.
Rose.
His body was shutting down, life fading before regeneration kicked in. He struggled to stay aware and coherent while frantically working through the possibilities, searching the hints of timelines he was able to see. Finally, he settled on the best course of action, a desperate attempt to avoid changing. He caught his breath as her timeline became clearer, distancing itself from his.
He'd saved the world and lost her after all.