the night was peaceful at poguelandia, the distant waves were the only sounds around. you JJ were curled up together on the couch, lost in the rare quietness. wrapped in the blanket, you two both drifted off, feeling safe for the first time in a long while.

you stirred awake as JJ suddenly sat up, you could hear him breathing heavily, and his hand was pressed tightly against his stomach. his whole body was tense, his breathing came out in short gasps as he stared into the darkness outside the window.

you sat up beside him, concern filling your voice. you reached for his arm. “JJ? what happened?” you mumbled. your voice was still slightly groggy from just waking up.

he quickly pulled himself back, his face softened as he realized you were in fact there with him. “it-- it's nothing,” he said, forcing a small and very unconvincing smile. “stupid nightmare.” his hand wqs still clutching his stomach, and you could see the fear lingering in his eyes. you placed your hand over his. "JJ,” you said softly, brushing his arm. “it's more than just a nightmare.” he hesitated, glancing away as if he wasn't sure he wanted to open up, but eventually, he let out a quiet sigh. “it feels like I’m back there. like-- like it’s happening all over again.” his voice was barely a whisper, and he looked so vulnerable.

you gave his hand a gentle squeeze, grounding him. “you’re here now. I’m still right here.” you spoke quietly, but for a split second your mind raced back to when it all happened. the storm, the dust, the way his own blood father twisted the knife into his stomach--

he leaned into you, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly as he rested his head against yours. "i don’t know what id do without you,” he murmured, voice barely above a whisper. "you saved me. literally. you could feel the weight of his words, the vulnerability he so rarely let show.