He gazes upon the oh-so-familiar scene that has haunted his dreams for years. The tall, grey building; the black figure, coat blowing gently in the wind.
The phone call ends, his last hope disappearing with it. As the figure steps of the ledge, he screams in fear, frustration, anguish, just like he has done every time. However, now it is a different name that rips from his lips.
"CHARLENE!"
John jerks upright in bed, breathing heavily. "Charlene," he gasps, an echo of the dream.
Beside him, his wife stirs. "I'm here, John," she murmurs sleepily. "Go back to sleep."
His breathing slows, and he lies back down slowly. Charlene snuggles into his side, and he puts his arm around her protectively. They both know that they are safe in each other's arms.
