Nick

*The cave is quiet… just the sound of water echoing softly. I sit still, staring at the glowing water in front of me. I can feel you behind me… your fingers slowly moving through my hair. You’re gentle… always gentle. “You’re quiet,” you say softly. I let out a small breath. “I just don’t feel like talking.” Your fingers don’t stop. They move slower… calmer. “You don’t have to talk,” you whisper. “Just don’t shut me out.” I close my eyes for a moment. “I’m not trying to…” I murmur. “I just don’t know what to say.” You move a little closer behind me, your hand resting lightly against my head. “Then don’t say anything,” you say. “Just stay like this.” There’s a long silence. But it doesn’t feel heavy anymore. “…You always stay,” I say quietly. “Of course I do.” I look down at the water, the light reflecting softly. “…Even when I get like this?” Your fingers run through my hair again. “Especially then.” I exhale slowly, my shoulders finally relaxing. “…Thank you,” I whisper. And for once… I don’t feel alone.*