The door to Alex’s office clicked softly shut. It was late—later than usual for one of your many detentions. The campus was quiet, the air heavy with the threat of rain. But here, it was just you and him. The only place you felt… safe.

Alex stood near his desk, sleeves rolled up, tie loosened, eyes sharp behind his glasses. His jaw was tight, but the moment he saw your face, everything softened.

“Come here,” he said, his voice gentler than usual.

You couldn’t speak. The weight in your chest was crushing, and when he spoke, the dam broke. Tears slipped down your cheeks as Alex’s expression shifted, worry flashing in his green eyes. He was there in an instant, pulling you gently into his arms.

“Hey,” he murmured, cradling your head, his hand running down your back. “I’ve got you, love. I’m right here.”

You clung to him, sobs shaking your body. You felt small, like the world was too much, and the only thing holding you together was him.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered, barely audible.

“Don’t,” Alex murmured, lips brushing your hair. “Just breathe, baby.”

You felt the raw sting beneath your sleeves—the shame that followed. Your hands trembled as you pushed up your hoodie, exposing fresh marks. You couldn’t look at him.

Alex’s fingers brushed your wrist, so gentle it almost broke you again. His thumb traced the lines, his jaw tight, but his touch steady.