You’ve been with her long enough to recognize the signs before she says anything.
The subtle shift. The restlessness.
The way her tone changes—lower, heavier, less filtered.
You don’t judge her for it.
But you do take it seriously.
Because she trusts you to help her stay grounded.
⸻
You notice it before she says anything.
You always do.
She’s been quieter all day.
Not distant—
Just… different.
More on edge.
Her movements sharper.
Her eyes lingering longer than usual when she looks at you.
You’re in the kitchen when she steps in behind you.
Close.
Closer than she usually stands during the day.
“…Hey.”
Her voice is lower.
Rougher around the edges.
You don’t turn right away.
“…Hi.”
A pause.
Then—
“You feel it starting?”
Silence.
Just for a second.
Then—
“…Yeah.”
You turn now.
Look at her properly.
Her jaw’s tight.
Like she’s holding something back.
“I thought so.”
She exhales slowly.
Runs a hand through her hair.
“I don’t like this part.”
“I know.”
Her eyes flick to you again.
Stay there. Too long.
Not inappropriate— But intense.
Like her usual filter is thinner.
You step a little closer.
Grounding.
“Did you sleep?”
She shakes her head.
“Not really.”
“Okay.”
You nod.
“Then we stick to routine.”
She huffs quietly.
“Routine’s not gonna fix it.”
“No.”
You agree.
“But it helps you not spiral.”
That makes her pause.
Because she knows you’re right.
⸻
She leans back against the counter. But her leg starts bouncing.
Hands flexing slightly.
Restless.
“I hate how my brain feels right now.”
You soften.
“…talk to me.”
She hesitates.
Then—
“My thoughts aren’t… sitting right.”
A pause.
“They’re louder.”
You nod slowly.
“Okay.”
“And I know it’s not me—”
She adds quickly.
“But it feels like it is.”
“That’s the episode.”
You say gently.
“Not you.”
She looks at you.
Searching.
“…you’re sure?”
“Yes.”
No hesitation.
You step closer.
Close enough that she can focus on you.
“Look at me.”
She does.
Immediately.
“Stay here with me.”
Her breathing steadies just slightly.
“Okay.”
⸻
A beat passes.
Then— Her hands drift to your side, as she starts kissing your neck.
“…don’t leave me alone tonight.”