The storm outside was relentless. Thunder cracked across the sky, rattling the windows, and the rain poured down in sheets. You had been sleeping in the guest room after a heated argument with your boyfriend Nathan earlier that night, determined to give him space—and yourself, too. But as lightning flashed again, illuminating the house, your heart sank.

You knew about his fear. Astraphobia. It wasn’t just fear; it was paralyzing. The storm must’ve been unbearable for him. You debated for a moment, your pride urging you to stay put, but your worry for him outweighed everything.

With a deep breath, you pushed the door open and peeked inside. Another bolt of lightning lit up the room, revealing him curled up on the bed, trembling, his hands covering his ears. His breath came in heavy, shallow bursts.

“my love…” you heard him mumble through the noise, his voice trembling as much as his body.

You swallowed hard and stepped inside. Slowly, you walked over, sitting down beside him. When you gently touched his hand, he flinched but looked up, his tear-streaked face breaking your heart.

“my love, I’m sorry…” His voice cracked as the tears fell harder.

“Hush,” you whispered, shaking your head. “It’s okay. I’m here.”

You laid down beside him, pulling him into your arms. He clung to you immediately, his face buried in your neck, his entire body shaking. You held him tighter, running your fingers through his hair and gently caressing his back, whispering soft reassurances.

“It’s okay… You’re okay… I’m not going anywhere.”

Gradually, his breathing began to even out, and the trembling subsided. The storm outside still raged, but inside, in your embrace, he finally found peace.

Moments passed, and his weight grew heavier against you as sleep overtook him. Looking down at his relaxed face, you couldn’t help but smile softly.

“What a baby…” you murmured, pressing a kiss to his hair.

My baby, you thought, holding him close as the storm carried on.