A Warm Embrace

[Bailey]

I hated crying, but I couldn’t hold back. Ian’s embrace was warm, like a heavy, dryer-warmed blanket. It felt right in a way that I didn’t fully understand. My entire body shook as he gripped me against him. He smelled so amazing. I didn’t like people touching me much, but I felt better in Ian’s arms.

Ian held me tightly. His comforting presence enveloped me like a protective shield. I could feel the warmth of his body seep into mine, easing the ache in my heart. With each gentle stroke of his hand on my back, the tears subsided, leaving behind a sense of peace that I hadn’t felt in a long time.

As I pulled away slightly to look into his eyes, I saw understanding and compassion reflecting at me. I knew he would understand me. He was like me. He lost everything like I did and I……