So, I was really sad last night, and Espio is my comfort character-
Espio carefully stroked the Cat's dark hair as she let out gasp after choked gasp. "It's okay." He whispered, even if she couldn't hear over her cries.
She felt her chest tighten in shame and fear. Her breathing was a mess of broken sobs and quick gulps of air. She couldn't stand all the eyes on her. It felt humiliating. She hated others seeing her in such a state. Crying and sobbing like this was reserved for her room at night. When no one could hear. No one could question why she felt the need to fall into her emotions
Yet she somehow felt safe with the Chameleon next to her. The way he let her cling onto his shoulder. The way he stroked her head in a way that made her affection-needing soul unloosen. The way he didn't question her the way so many others did. The way he didn't demand for her to be calm.
Espio was doing nothing but a kind gesture for a broken soul. One that just needed someone.
In a futile effort, she tried saying something. Trying to thank him, or justify why she was crying so. But all that came out was another pent-up wail.
And yet, in all her distress, she felt safe somehow. The comfort his presence gave her was something she'd felt with few people.
So, even though her chest was tight as a knot, and her eyes felt like they were on fire, she felt like someone was there. At least.