Proceedings had been brought to a halt temporarily to allow him time to grieve.
He had had no idea what had happened to her after he had left. After he had been forced to leave! It was all their fault! If they had not summoned him, he would have found her in time to save her life!
Or would he? He had failed before. Failed those who trusted him most. He couldn't keep them all safe, not forever.
No, it was his own fault. She had followed him into danger, as always. She had complained, also as always, but she had still gone, with a brave heart and a trusting look.
And now she was gone. She would never complain at him, laugh at him or go out of her way to annoy him, ever again. And that was what he was going to miss the most.
He sighed. He should be preparing for the restart, but he couldn't, not yet. He kept seeing her face before his eyes. When would he ever learn? How many more lives would he risk, would he ultimately see snuffed out long before their time?
It seemed different this time, harder to bear. He had always been able to move on before, do what needed to be done and grieve later. Was he just getting older or had she meant more to him than even he had realised?
The Doctor lifted his head from his hands. A single tear rolled down his cheek, in memory of Peri.
