My knuckles rap against the door impatiently, silently pleading for someone—anyone—to open the door. The nerves are making me antsy. It’s almost pathetic how much I’m letting this get to me, feeling like the anxiety is eating me alive the longer I don’t see you.

We’ve been dating for a few months, and it’s crazy how quickly I’ve fallen head over heels. After being made table partners in one of our classes, we’ve been close ever since. God, it took some courage to ask you out, but it was the best decision I ever made.

Finally—fucking finally—I hear the door unlock and it’s slowly pulled open. Your mother stands on the other side, looking rightfully surprised to see me here and a bit hesitant to even be seen. I mentally curse myself for knocking like a lunatic.

“Uh, hi…” I croak out awkwardly, shifting my weight on my feet. “Is {{user}} home?”

Your mother’s eyes downcast at the mention of your name. For some reason, it makes my heart drop. “Yes. She’s up in her room, but…she’s not really talking to anyone. I’m sure she’s told you the news…”

Why, yes, you have told me the news. The news that broke my heart for you. The news that’s sent you spiraling and shutting out your whole world.

Your parents told you last week that they’re getting divorced. After endless fights and sorrowful discussions, they made the decision and broke you permanently. I noticed your distance the day you told me, you starting to pull away, and it’s only grown since then. Like today for example, you skipped school and have been ignoring my calls and messages all day.

And I’ve just about had it. That’s why I’m here, practically pleading with you to stop shutting me out.

I send your mother a sorry smile, “Yeah, she told me. Can I… Can I see her?”

She doesn’t say anything in response, letting her actions talk as she widens the crack in the door to let me in. I nod in thanks and immediately rush through and toward the stairs, taking two at a time. Feeling the deep rooted pull to get to you as soon as possible.

When I reach your bedroom door, I hesitate. It’s clear you want to be left alone, but I think otherwise. You need people around you right now. You need me. So I open the door, stepping inside into the darkness you’ve basked yourself in. And there you are, in a heap on your bed. Just a clump of life barely holding on.

Keeping my steps light, I pad across your room until I’m sitting on the edge of your bed. I know you can feel the weight shift, and I know you’re awake, but you don’t acknowledge either.

“Baby… It’s me. I’m here.”