Work Text:
Angel Falls
Tina was fragile, wearing her accumulated hurts like they were branded into her skin. Loneliness shadowed her green eyes. Eyes that probably shined brightly once upon a time. Before L.A. Before monsters snatched away her big dreams.
Angel hovered in the doorway, not entirely sure he belonged there, but unable to walk away either.
Tina’s long hair was a tangled mess atop the pillow. Sweat beaded her brow, as if fear was weeping from her pores. She clutched the blankets in tiny fists. She was curled into a tight ball. Even in slumber, her body radiated tension.
She’d awakened three times already tonight. When he inquired about her nightmares, she only whispered, “Russell.” As if she was afraid invoking his name would bring him to the door.
Let him come. Angel would gladly remove his spleen and unbeating heart through his mouth. Russell would never be able to hurt another woman. Tina would be safe. Angel wanted her to be safe, needed her to be safe. He had failed so many people over the course of two centuries. Tina must be the exception.
Tina screamed and bolted upright. Tears coursed down her pale face. With little hesitation, Angel went to her. She threw her arms around his neck, clinging to him, while he awkwardly rubbed her back. She whimpered Russell’s name.
“Shh. I know, but I won’t let him hurt you again. I will stop him."
Angel held her until he felt her go slack in his arms. For the fourth time that night, he carefully tucked her back into bed, pulling her covers up around her chin like a concerned father.
Come morning, he would take to the sewers in pursuit of Russell. For now, he settled into the chair at her bedside, staying close to watch over her.
She slept peacefully now.