You rush through the empty hall, fighting back tears.

All it takes some days is a raised, angry voice, and suddenly you're 8 again, pathetic pleas mixed with choked sobs. It's enough to pierce through the thick wall of self-preservation.

Tears blur your vision, which is why you don't see him coming. You slam face first into his broad chest and he grasps your shoulders gently, keeping you from falling.

"Bloody hell," his eyes widen, concern etched into his face. "Easy, love. What happened?"