Moomin One-shots, I guess-

Panic Attack

'Italicized Text + Apostrophies':  Snufkin's Thoughts

{ Snufkin's POV }

'Alright... tonight's the night.'

Hesitantly, I walk onto the bridge, gripping onto the dimly lit lantern in my right hand.

'I'm going to tell him..no backing down.'

I set it down on the rim of the bridge.

'oh god, my paws are so shaky I just need to make it NOT fall...holy heck, wHY IS THIS SO HARD-'

I turn my head, staring at Moominhouse. My beloved Moomintroll...

'No...he's not mine...not yet.'

The mere thought of him being mine makes my heart race with ecstasy. My paw grips at my chest, attempting to stop the rapid heartbeat.

'Breathe, Snufkin...breathe...'

I take another deep breath before making a feeble attempt at standing up straight. My thumbs begin to twirl around each other.

'Oh, god, I'm going to look like a complete fool. There really is no way that he'll accept my feelings, much less love me back... he's going to hate me. There's no way that he'll like me anymore. He's going to be uncomfortable with being around me. Moominmamma and Moominpappa will hate me for causing their child such discomfort. I'm going to guarantee that I'll lose my best friend and I'll have no one-'

"Snufkin!"

I jolt in shock, being snapped out of my thoughts. I look up to see Moomin running towards me. I try to wipe away the tears before he's able to notice them.

"M..Moomintroll."

"Oh!...Yeah, yeah!"

He leaned against the bridge railing, letting his body become relaxed. He turns his head to look at me. His attempts to appear calm didn't work since his eyes radiated excitement.

'Good. He didn't notice how much of a crybaby I am. Good, good...'

"Snufkin~."

'God, you're adorable~.'

"Ehm..."

I lean against the railing.

'Go on. Tell him.'

I glance at him for a moment, staring into his eyes. My cheeks heat up. Thank God for the lantern being so dim.

"Are...you alright, Snuf?"

'Tell him...'

"Oh. Yeah, yeah..."

Moomin's eyes suddenly changed from hidden excitement to concern.

"Are you sure?"

'Tell him.'

"...no, not yeAH! Yeah! I'm great!" I insist, chuckling nervously.

Moomin gently grabs my paw, lightly squeeze it. I glance down at it. I'm tempted to pull away...but it's...strangely comforting. I look into his eyes, which still expressed concern.

"Snufkin...I can tell something's on your mind..."

"Uhm..."

'Tell him.'

I turn away from him, resting my arms on the railing. I stare down at the river, appearing to observe the glistening water below.

'Tell. Him.'