Work Text:
It surprised him. Like something jumping out of a box of a birthday gift. And it frightened him.
There was only a darkness around but he kept holding onto this feeling.
Touch.
It was he needed to sail through the darkness and pain.
Touch.
Of a friend.
It made him feel anchored. Like a connection, bond. And it made the pain go away.
"Hang on, buddy. Help is on the way."
The magic phrase that should make everyone feel better. Feel safe.
And it does to him too. Despite fear, pain and darkness.
"Please, just stay. Don't leave."
He makes out the words. Barely. They almost chokes him in his attempt.
But Peter's there. He hears. And the hold of his hand tightens as if he fears Neal could slip away.
But he won't. And Neal smiles at the feeling of being safe again.
"I'm not gonna leave you Neal. You're safe. It's gonna be alright."
The assuring words Peter says and his hand around his wrist and other grabbing his palm tells everything Neal needs to know.
And pain goes away. He feels safe again.