matt’s car screeched to a halt in front of the house, the faint bass of the party music thumping in the background. you had called him earlier, your shaky voice barely managing to get out where you were and what had happened. he didn’t ask for details—he just knew you needed him.

when he found you, you were sitting on the floor in an empty hallway, your arms wrapped tightly around your knees. his heart clenched at the sight of you, your breathing uneven, tears slipping down your cheeks.

“hey, it’s okay,” matt said softly as he crouched down in front of you. his hands immediately reached for yours, his fingers gentle but firm as they pried your grip loose. “can you take a deep breath for me? just one, baby.”

his voice was calm, steady, the only thing cutting through the chaos in your mind. he sat beside you, his arm wrapping protectively around your shoulders, pulling you into his chest. “you’re not alone. i’m right here, okay? just focus on me.” his hand rubbed soothing circles on your back, his touch light and grounding.