The following morning, Dominic woke up early with a sense of contentment. The thought of his partner still sleeping peacefully in bed was a reassuring presence in his mind, and he couldn't help but smile.
Deciding to let Garrett sleep in, Dominic quietly got out of bed. He made his way to the kitchen, starting on breakfast and getting some coffee ready. With a bit of extra energy today, he even went for his morning run, taking in the fresh air and scenic route.
After his run, Dominic returned home, his cheeks rosy from the exertion. He stepped into the kitchen, feeling the invigorating chill of the early morning on his face. He stood for a moment, stretching his muscles and relishing the peaceful quiet of the house.
Eventually, he headed to the bathroom for a quick shower to wash off the sweat from his run. The hot water felt good against his skin, and he enjoyed the tranquility of the moment before the day began in earnest.
Dominic stepped out of the bathroom, wrapped in a towel, and was about to make his way back to the bedroom when he saw Garrett.
He stopped, taken aback by the sight of his partner crying. Concern immediately filled his heart. "Garrett, what's wrong?" he asked, his voice filled with worry. He quickly stepped closer, closing the distance between them.
Garrett didn't respond at first, his shoulders shaking slightly as he continued to cry. Dominic gently wrapped his arms around him, pulling him closer. "Garrett, love, you can talk to me. Whatever it is, we can figure it out together," he said softly, his voice soothing.
He held him there, offering comfort and support, his embrace a silent reassurance that he was there for Garrett, no matter what.
They stood in silence for a few moments, Dominic holding Garrett until the sobs gradually subsided.
Once Garrett's tears quieted, Dominic gently pulled back, gently coaxing him to look up at him. He wiped away a stray tear from Garrett's cheek with the pad of his thumb.
"Can you tell me what happened?" he asked softly, his eyes searching Garrett's tear-streaked face.
Garrett took in a shuddering breath, attempting to compose himself. He looked into Dominic's eyes, finding solace and warmth there.
"I... I just feel overwhelmed, I guess," he said softly, his voice wavering slightly. "Everything feels like it's closing in, and I don't know what to do."
Dominic held his gaze, listening closely to every word. His concern for Garrett was palpable, and he offered a small, encouraging smile.
Dominic gently guided Garrett to the couch, sitting him down. He took a seat next to him, still wearing the towel.
"Take your time," he reassured Garrett, his hand rubbing soothing circles on his back. "We can talk about it, or we can just sit here for a while. Whatever you need."
He remained there, providing a silent and comforting presence, waiting for Garrett to organize his thoughts.
After a few minutes, Garrett leaned against Dominic, his head resting on his shoulder. The tears had mostly dried up, and he seemed calmer now.
Dominic wrapped his arm around him, holding him close. They sat there in silence, just the sound of their breaths filling the room. After a while, Dominic spoke softly.
"You don't have to face everything alone," he whispered, his voice gentle. "I'm here for you, always."
Garrett nodded, finding comfort in Dominic's words.
