Helena handed him the communicator, her smile softening into something gentler.
"Take your time with this one." Her voice carried warmth. "And don't worry about me hanging around listening. I'll be outside if you need anything."
She moved toward the door, her steps unhurried, then paused with her hand on the handle.
"Oh, and Squad Leader?"
He looked up, the device still clutched in his hand.
"Whatever you're about to say to her, don't overthink it. Just talk."
The door clicked shut behind her, leaving him alone in the small room.
Damian stared at the communicator for a long moment, his thumb hovering over the small screen that showed an active connection.
'She's waiting on the other end.'
The thought sat heavy in his chest.
'What do I even say? How do I explain myself?'
He lifted the device slowly, bringing it close to his ear.
But no words came out and his throat felt tight, constricted by things he couldn't name.
