He lay motionless on the mattress, his hair drapes across his face, hiding some of his features. He was a sight to behold - as though all the events he had endured were gone, yet they plagued the depths of his mind each day.

You extended a finger to stroke his cheek, but he jerked awake and grabbed your hand in a fleeting moment. His brow furrowed with frustration, then softened as he took notice of your visage.

"I'm sorry... you startled me." He sighed, releasing you, his manner gentle.