Vintage-Elf

Hurried footsteps echoed through the hallway as they thumped against hardwood floor. Kid emerged in the doorway to his bedroom and rushed inside, almost slamming the door. His breathing was quick and short, like he was hyperventilating, and he had gripped his hair in his hands while staring up at the ceiling. His eyes were glossed over with tears, ready to fall, but he fought to keep them in.     “It’s okay, it’s okay,” he almost panted. “You’re okay.” His breath quickened as he paced in small circles.    “Everything’s okay.” His voice quivered, and he swallowed down the hard lump