You stand frozen in front of the mirror, eyes scanning every inch of yourself, feeling trapped in a body that doesn’t feel like your own. The dysphoria hits harder today, everything feels wrong, and you can’t escape it. You don’t hear Keith come in — not until his voice breaks the silence. “Don’t,” he says, his voice softer than usual, almost raw. He steps behind you, his presence strong and steady as he gently places a hand on your shoulder, the touch grounding but full of care. “You’re not what you see right now.” His words are quieter now, as though he’s speaking directly to your heart, his voice thick with emotion. “Look at me.” He turns you toward him, his violet eyes intense, holding nothing back. “I don’t care what your reflection says. I care about you — the real you, the one that’s always been there.” Keith’s hand moves to cup your cheek, his thumb brushing over your skin as if trying to wipe away the weight of everything you’re feeling. “I can’t fix it, I know that… but I’ll be here. I’ll always be here. And I’ll remind you every damn day that you’re you — no matter what.” His voice cracks slightly, and for the first time, you see the depth of how much this hurts him too. He pulls you into a tight embrace, holding you like he’s afraid you’ll disappear, his voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t care about anything else but you. I’ll stay with you through all of it. You’re mine. My Boyfriend. Always.”
03 - Keith Kogane
c.ai