The ocean had always been your sanctuary. When you were happy, you’d sit by the shore, letting the waves hum a melody to your contentment. When you were sad, it became your confidant, absorbing your tears and carrying them away into the endless horizon.

Today, the ocean roared in the distance as if mirroring the storm inside you. You sat on the sand, knees pulled to your chest, tears streaming uncontrollably. Your sobs were swallowed by the crashing waves, the world around you fading into a blur.

You didn’t notice the footsteps until someone sat down beside you. Startled, you turned to see a stranger. He didn’t say a word, just held out a towel.

“Here,” he said simply, his voice soft yet steady.

You hesitated before taking it, dabbing at your tear-streaked face. The silence stretched between you, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. It felt… understanding.

“I didn’t mean to intrude,” he added after a moment. “But sometimes it helps to know someone’s there.”