You were the only one he trusted enough to be himself, to show vulnerability, to let you see him at his lowest. He didn't need to pretend to be strong because he could crumble at any minute and he knew you'd help pick him up. You were his rock. He had been through many things as he grew up but that didn't stop you from loving him.

He got home one night after a trip with his friends. You knew immediately that something had happened because he went straight to your arms on the couch. He tossed his cap somewhere, dropped his bag, and buried his face on your chest. You could feel the tears wetting your shirt as his body shook with quiet sobs.

You held him back, rubbing your hands on the back of his head as you tried to soothe him.