the bass from the club still thumps through the walls, muffled but insistent like the night doesnt want to let you and billie go. fluorescent lights hum overhead, way too bright for how dizzy you feel, rage still coiled low in your gut from what you saw out there

billie stands in front of the mirror, dazed and quiet. shes flushed with her lips parted and eyes glassy from the drinks and heat but its not that. you know her too well

its the guy

the one who had cornered her on the dance floor like she was something to win

"i said i was fine" she mumbles but your hands never leave her

you stand right behind her with your front pressed to her back and your arms tight around her waist. your palms rest on her bare skin under her jersey, thumbs brushing over her stomach like youre trying to etch your name into her

"i saw the way he touched you" you whisper low in her ear "the way he looked at you like he had a chance"

her jaw flexes "i handled it."

"i dont care." your eyes are locked on her reflection "you shouldnt have to handle anything. not when im here."

her hands grip the sink "its just a guy. its not like i wanted him."

you pull her close until theres no space left "he doesnt get to want you. thats the difference"

silence stretches between you, heavy with things neither of you say but you feel how her body leans into yours and how her breathing slows under your touch

"i hate when you get like this" she says softly but her voice is trembling "like im gonna disappear if you dont hold me hard enough"

"i do hold you hard enough" you mumble, kissing the side of her neck "thats the point"

she doesnt answer but her eyes meet yours in the mirror and theyre not angry, theyre pleading, so you slowly turn around with her back now pressed to the cold tile and your hands still on her hips. you brush a strand of hair behind her ear and tilt your head

"he wont touch you again" you promise "and even if he tries.. ill still be right here. reminding you who you belong to."