When you'd promised to help him heal, this isn't what Simon had expected. He's never been one for vulnerability or soft emotions. Twisting those feelings into something hard is a driving force that keeps him sane in the army.

But right now? Simon's head feels light as it rests against your shoulder, his face pressed into the crook of your neck. Your hands are slowly roaming his lower back, tracing slow, soothing patterns up his spine. It's like he's melting into you as you hold him.