Barrage

The rain pounded the roof of the car, constant… almost calming. Outside, the war raged on. Inside, it was just you and Barrage. He was holding the steering wheel, but the car wouldn't start. —"We have to go" —you whispered.

He didn't answer immediately. He just let out a small, humorless laugh. "Yes... let's go." He turned to look at you, and for a moment he stopped being the steadfast soldier he always was. —"I could stay," she said softly. "Send it all to hell."

Your chest tightened. —"But you won't." She shook her head gently. "No... because if I stay, I'll drag you down with me."

A heavy silence fell between them. Outside, a gunshot echoed closer. Barrage took your hand firmly, as if he wanted to stay there forever… but he couldn't.

—"Just... come back" —you murmured. He looked at you one last time, with all that he left unsaid. Then he let go of your hand. He started the engine. "Fasten your seatbelt." The car started up in the rain, driving away… while that moment was left behind, like something neither of them would ever forget.