Mini-ficlet: Countdown

[mayachain]

Title: Countdown
Character: John Sheppard
Rating: PG
Word Count: 155
Summary: Few people hear what John Sheppard cannot say.

"Dad," John says, voice kept carefully even. The ensuing silence is nothing he didn't expect. "Dave," John asks, but his brother's eyes cloud over and slide away. "Nance," he croaks into the phone, one foot on the plane, knowing that it won't be enough, not this time. "Captain," John whispers, moving to check Holland's pulse. His head is swimming with the certainty that it's already too late. "Elizabeth." There's a smile on her face that shows that she's almost getting it. "Ford," he calls, and it's not enough. Again. "Ronon," tone as light as he can possibly make it, and the hand that grips his arm is all the answer he needs. "Teyla," he says, and her eyes shine in a way that promises him that You tried and I have heard you. You will not be made to go through this, ever again. "Rodney," and the arms around him tighten. "Yes, I know, it's alright." *