Chapter 78: I'm not dramatic, I'm empathic

"Are you alright?" He whispered in her ear as he wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close, pressing his lips against the crown of her head.

He gently brushed strands of blonde hair aside to reveal more skin so he could plant tiny kisses upon her forehead. "Tell me, dearest...."

Her chest felt so tight she couldn't speak.

Instead, she burrowed her face into his shirt, sniffling softly as she gripped onto him, clinging tight to him like a lifeline, needing his comfort, needing to feel secure in his embrace.

She sobbed into his chest.

His strong arms cradled her close, firm. He rested his cheek atop her head, enveloping her within his warm embrace.

He kissed the top of her hair repeatedly. "It is alright...shhhh. Everything will be fine. Shhh, it will work out."

His words helped ease the painful tension coiling within her heart as he rocked her tenderly.