Page 4 of Pretty Thing

He sounds concerned, but his voice is steady, smooth, and comforting.

“I…I don’t know. My arm is broken.”

“Hold on,” he says.

I lift my head and watch him lean in through the window to clear the glass off the seat. Then he peels off his jacket. He folds it before laying it over the door frame. His eyes meet mine as he reaches for me.

“Okay, come on. I’ve got you.”

Pain lances my side as I move toward him.

He sticks his head in, leaning on the door.

“I’m Felix,” he says, eyes steady. “Look at me. You’re okay. You’re alive.”

Alive.

How can he be sure?

Felix looks over his shoulder.

“The firefighters are here. Don’t move, it’s safer if they get you out,” he says, standing up straight.

“Please don’t leave me,” I beg, grabbing his hand.

“I’m not. I promise. I’m not going anywhere,” Felix says.

He gives me a little smile when I nod and release him.

“I’m just going to get help.”

“No. Please just pull me out.”

“But…”

“Please,” I cry. “I can’t…I can’t stay in here.”

“Alright. Turn so your back is to me. I’ll grip you under the arms and slowly pull you out. Don’t lift your head, or I may accidentally bump it against the window frame. Okay?”

“Yeah.”

I follow his directions and bite back the yell as my ribs bark at me with every little movement. I’m panting when I finally get into position.

“I’m ready.”

He slips his hands under my arms, and they feel so warm even through my hoodie.

“Here we go. Remember, watch your head.”

Felix lifts me. The pain is so intense I’m sure that I’ll pass out. Instead, I cringe against the agony and lay my head back into his chest and focus on him. I end up staring up at his jaw.

“Hold on.”

He changes positions so one arm is around my body and the other under my legs. Felix carries me the rest of the way out. I bury my face in his chest, panting hard and body trembling.

I’m free, but Felix doesn’t put me down. He just holds me. He doesn’t look much older than I am. His brows are furrowed in concentration as his eyes search my face.

“Are you cold?”