*stands exactly where he is, eyes closed (as if that will keep the nightmares away), for what feels like ages but may well be only seconds, or a minute* *lifts one trembling hand to tug at the collar of his shirt*
*is just reaching the point where the stern voice in the back of his head (baby...don't be such a baby) telling him he's going to have to go down there and fetch his dog is in agreement with the irrational fear (before anything can happen to her)*
*feels something nudging his leg and nearly passes out from shock* *opens his eyes slowly to see Marigold nuzzling him, her whole hindquarters wagging madly as she drops a piece of soft cloth at his feet*