Mel standing outside the hospital after their shift.
Becca hasn't answered the phone.
Refuses to do so.
So Mel has no plans.
Headphones in her bag a sign of how her actions really don't seem to matter.
Her eyes are unfocused on her car. Unsure what to do or where to go. Other people made plans to go to the roof but she wasn't included.
Who would include Mel really.
But then he's close by.
Looking as lost as she felt. Cut down to the bone through pain, loss and circumstance. But there's a glimmer of that thing Mel lacks.
Knowledge of self.
"c'mon one of the few good things about this place is the view."
"I wasn't invited."
"neither was I. But no one owns the roof. Let's have some fun."
There's a hand at her elbow and he steers her to the roof. Smiles and side eyes in equal measure.
If she'd been alone she'd have run away. But he still has his hand on her arm. Holding her steady. Not stopping her but certainly not letting go.
The chatter stops. Everyone watches the colourful explosions in the sky. Mel's brain rattles through the elements and their corresponding colours. She can hear him mutter the same.
Slowly the hand that was on her arm drops. But doesn't leave. He presses into her side for a moment. Unsure. Unlike anyone else she presses back.
Backs of hands brushing.
It's quiet and soothing.
No one sees. But she feels seen. For the first time in her life.
People filter away as the show dies down. They stand staring at the dark sky.
"I'm glad you came back."
"I'm glad you're still here."
