( is that doubt in his eyes? or is that hope? she can only bank on it being something kinder. even behind the helmet, she still smiles brightly when he takes a step. )

You're doing so good. But we have to hurry, okay? I'm not sure how much time we have. Once we get out of the woods, we can slow down again. I promise.

( one or two half steps become a little more, until she can lead him to the door- the hallway is quiet, dark and empty, just how she wants it. )

I'm going to get you out of here- ( a sincere promise, despite hating such things. ) -and then, I'll take you to my home, alright? But you won't have to stay there. I just want to make sure you're okay, and that you have some time to rest from all of this.

( she's sure he can understand her, given that her mother likes verbal commands- but if she's just talking to herself, she hopes she still sounds soothing, because... because once the helmet comes off...

... that won't be for a while though. )