You were curled up on the couch, knees tucked to your chest, gripping the soft fabric of your oversized hoodie. Everything felt too much today—too loud, too fast, too overwhelming. The weight of it all pressed down on you until your mind slipped into something softer, safer.

Damiano noticed the shift before you even said a word. He had seen it before—the way your expression changed, the way your body curled in on itself, seeking comfort. He didn’t say anything at first, just sat beside you.

“You wanna talk about it?” His voice was gentle, careful.

You shook your head quickly, shrinking further into yourself. Words felt impossible right now.

He exhaled softly. “Okay.”

Without hesitation, he reached for the plush bunny you always kept on the couch, tucking it into your arms. You clung to it immediately, fingers curling around the soft fabric.

“There we go,” he murmured, brushing his fingers lightly through your hair. “You’re safe. Just breathe, yeah?”

You leaned into his touch instinctively, your head resting against his shoulder. He didn’t move, didn’t rush you—just let you be.

“Wanna watch some cartoons, baby?” he asked after a while. “Or do you want me to read to you?”