And then it ends.

Three months later, that voice crackles before the beep. That's when your own voice shakes and your tongue stops, numb.

For two nights, you dreamed of hearing that voice. Saw that face. The empty eyes with a gaze that flickered through you. Never knew you. Your name means nothing until spoken.

You have nerves of steel when sequestered at home. Then send the signal out, fading and broken, it shatters---

The moment passes, almost. That dense air pushing on your chest, pulling on your arms, your fingers, it shakes you from deeper than you knew. Hooks inside with shards of glass. Your tender skin in shreds.