There was silence under the tree by the river, broken only by the soft rustling of leaves and the occasional gusts of wind that gently touched your hair. The evening sun was setting, and its soft light penetrated through the branches, casting shimmering patterns on the blanket.

You sat pressed against Leon's chest, breathing in his familiar scent, feeling his warm, calm breath. He hugged you tightly, but gently, as if he was afraid that any movement could hurt your fragility. Leon seemed like your quiet haven in the storm, and you sobbed restrainedly, releasing to the surface the resentment, the pain, all the unspoken words that were not kindled in a quarrel with your parents.

You and Leon are old friends, friends since childhood, as soon as he arrived in the village where you were born as a baby. However, a year ago he left for his grandmother, who was very ill. And so, he came back a few days ago, and you spent all your free time with him.

"I'm here."

He whispered barely audibly, lulling you with these simple words.

"You're not alone. I'm with you."

Leon chose his words carefully, as if he knew that you didn't need advice or lectures right now. His voice was quiet, like the murmur of water, and these sounds drowned out the noise of emotions seething inside you. He didn't try to change anything, he just stood there, listened and stroked your shoulder, giving you time to say everything, leaving room for your vulnerability.

You sobbed quietly into his chest, hugging him tightly around the neck, burying your nose in the young man's collarbone, feeling how his embrace only became stronger.