Disclaimer- Did I say they were mine? No.

A/N- Sorry the last one was so short but it felt like a natural break. Not that this one is any longer, but I just thought I should apologize.

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Don was sitting at the end of the table when Elliot was brought in. He looked up and Elliot found he couldn't meet Don's eyes. He didn't think he could witness the pain and disappointment without breaking down.

He moved to a chair and stood beside it while the guard removed the chains and cuffs at the Captain's request. After he sat down his eyes remained on his hands, lying side by side on the worn surface. His mind overlaid the reality with the dream image of blood dripping from his fingers. Liv's soft, sorrow filled voice echoed in his mind.

"Why won't you see your daughters, Elliot?" Don asked quietly.

"I can't, Don. George is right. I'm a coward, I can face the judge and prison, and I can even face the needle. But I can't face my kids." Elliot's voice broke. "I've lost everything else. I can't face seeing the proof of their lost love and respect written on their faces." He felt Don move around the table to sit beside him.

"Look at me, Elliot." Don said.

Elliot slowly raised his eyes to face the man whose opinion was as important to him as his father's had been. He saw the disappointment he'd expected, but what broke him was the love and understanding. Hot tears fell as he groped blindly for Don's hand.

Don drew Elliot into an embrace and rocked him like a child, as his friend finally began to release some of the pain and grief he'd held inside for so long. They might not be able to save Elliot's life, but perhaps there was a chance of restoring his sanity.