In the Pitt, hesitation can cost a life. Dennis Whittaker doesn't hesitate. Not anymore. After a split-second delay during a pediatric code, his attending, Robby, says two words that won't leave him alone: "You hesitated". And when Dennis instinctively reaches to steady him later that shift, Robby steps back with a quiet, sharp "Don't". Dennis adjusts the only way he knows how - silently. He pulls his hands in. Keeps his distance. Stops reaching first. But in a place where bodies collide, and lives hang in the balance, distance isn't as simple as stepping back. Because sometimes it only takes half a second to save someone. And half a second to lose something you didn't realize you wanted. This is my first ever fic, so don't expect too much. I'm also a first-semester nursing student, so there may be some medical inaccuracies; just bear with me. The writing will probably get better as time goes on and I get into a rhythm. I will try to update at least once a week. I hope you enjoy!