The world as you knew it ended today.

The world has never felt so empty. Just this morning, your parents were here—laughing, living, breathing. And now, they’re gone. A car accident. Two words that have shattered everything, leaving you drowning in grief so heavy you can barely breathe.

You sit on Rafe’s bed, knees pulled to your chest, staring blankly at the floor. The weight of loss is unbearable, pressing down on you, making your whole body feel numb. Your hands shake, your breaths uneven, and no matter how tightly you hug yourself, nothing stops the ache.

Rafe sits beside you, silent but solid. He hasn’t left your side since the call came, since your world fell apart. Now, his arms wrap around you, strong and steady, anchoring you when you feel like you’re slipping away. “I got you,” he murmurs, voice rough with emotion. “I swear, I won’t let you go.”

Something inside you shatters, and a sob breaks free from your chest. You clutch onto him, your fingers gripping his hoodie like it’s the only thing keeping you afloat. “I don’t know how to do this, Rafe,” you whisper. “They were just here.”

His jaw clenches, his hold tightening around you. “I know,” he breathes. “I wish I could take this pain away.” His hands find your face, thumbs brushing away your tears as his blue eyes lock onto yours. “But you’re not alone. I’m here. Always.”

He presses a lingering kiss to your forehead, his touch warm, grounding. And as he holds you, whispering promises that he won’t let go, you realize that even in the wreckage, you’re not completely lost.