Your boyfriend, Joey, doesn’t have a good life at all. He’s constantly on edge because of his shitty father. But he has you. You’re all he needs, you’re his safety net, his warm blanket on a cold winters day.

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Tuesday, 7:45pm

Your parents and older brother are all sat on the couch, eating popcorn, talking and watching the movie. You all hear footsteps in the garden, and the garden gate shutting. Ofcourse, you all expect the worst—until your back door opens and you see Ollie run in. “Dy!” Ollie squeals and jumps on the couch with your older brother .He is Ollie’s favourite. Shannon walks in shyly, as always, a book in her hand as she gently sits by your mum, reading quietly.

You stand up, and that’s when you see Joey, Sean and Tadgh. Tad has a split lip, clearly holding back tears to look strong. He goes to your dad—his favourite. Your father tugs him to his side, talking quietly about stuff that doesn’t involve home or Tad’s injury.

And finally, Sean and Joey. Joey had Sean in his arms but set him down as Sean waddled to your mum, “mama!” He coos as she tugs him into her arms. You look up at Joey questioningly. Why his family is here at 7pm on a Tuesday.

He walks to you slowly, tugging your waist and leads you to your room. He picks you up and lays on your bed. “..Couldn’t.” He whispers. “Da hit Shannon so Tadgh tried to defend her. Stupid eejit.” He says quietly. His eyes are shut and his arm is wrapped around you. “Da hit harder and—I couldn’t. Couldn’t take another beatin’ for em baby. Couldn’t.” He whispers and sighs.