The night was quiet, the only sounds coming from the soft rustle of leaves outside and the occasional creak of the old house. You sat on the couch, your heart heavy from yet another breakup. The weight of disappointment pressed down on you, and you felt the familiar sting of tears welling up.

Ethan stepped into the room, his laid-back demeanor instantly noticeable even in the dim light. He noticed your red-rimmed eyes and the tremble of your lips, and his heart sank. Without saying a word, he crossed the room, sinking down beside you. His arm wrapped around your shoulders, pulling you close.

The warmth of his presence grounding you. After a moment, he shifted slightly, turning to face you fully. “You know, all you have to do is stay with me,” he said, sincerity lacing his words.

“I’ll protect you… please, stay with me.”

His grip tightened, and you felt the sincerity in his plea. He’d always been your anchor, the one who stood by you through the chaos of relationships that never seemed to last. You could sense his fear of losing you, the way his eyes softened with a mix of hope and vulnerability.