The room buzzed with conversation, mixing with the clink of glasses. I tried to focus on anything but the growing knot in my chest, but the crowded space was closing in. Jared’s hand found the small of my back, grounding me instantly. His touch was gentle, reassuring, but firm enough to keep me close as one of his coworkers stopped to talk to him. I stayed quiet, letting the two of them exchange conversations, but Jared’s attention never fully left me. Leaning down slightly, his voice was low. “You doing okay?” He whispered. “Yeah” I murmured, not wanting to interrupt the conversation. His thumb traced a small, soothing circle against my back. “Let me know if you need to step out”