I had some help

Nine

Alex left her office, running down the halls to the parking garage. Once inside her car, she broke down, tears streaming down her face. Although nothing had happened between her and Morgan, it had been a close call, and the last thing she wanted was to hurt Bailey.

Instead of going to her apartment, she drove to Bailey's house. She needed to see him, to feel his presence, and to remind herself of what truly mattered.

"Hey Google, text Caleigh that I won't be able to make it tonight, something came up."

Pulling up to Bailey's house, she took a moment to compose herself before getting out of the car. Her hands were still trembling as she knocked on the door. Bailey answered almost immediately, concern etched on his face when he saw her tear-streaked cheeks.

"Alex, what's wrong?" He asked, pulling her into a comforting embrace.

She clung to him, the familiar warmth of his arms grounding her. "I just... I needed to see you." She managed to say, her voice choked with emotion.

Bailey guided her inside, leading her to the couch where they both sat down. He held her close, his hand gently stroking her hair as she took deep, calming breaths.

"I'm here, Alex. Whatever it is, we'll get through it together." He reassured her, his voice soothing and steady.

Alex pulled back slightly, looking into his eyes. "Bailey, I need to talk to you about something," She began, her voice trembling. "Something happened today, and I just... I need to be honest with you."

Bailey's expression toughened with concern. "Whatever it is, you can tell me." He said, his grip on her hand tightening reassuringly.

Taking a deep breath, Alex began to explain the events of the day, her feelings, and her fears. Bailey's face tightened with anger as she described the close call with Morgan, but he remained silent until she finished.

When she was done, Bailey took a moment to process everything. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes were dark with a mixture of emotions. "I'm angry," He finally said, his voice controlled but firm. "Angry that this situation happened. But I'm also grateful that you felt comfortable enough to tell me."

Alex nodded, tears still glistening in her eyes. "I never wanted to hurt you, Bailey. I just didn't know what to do."

Bailey sighed, pulling her into another embrace. "I know, Alex. It takes a lot of courage to be honest, especially about something like this. We'll figure it out together."

"Are you sure?" Alex asked, her voice small.

"Yes," Bailey replied, kissing the top of her head. "We'll work through this. I'm just glad you told me. Let's get some rest."

Alex nodded her head, grabbing his hand and leading him to his bedroom. Once inside, Bailey handed her some comfortable clothes to sleep in, a tender smile on his face. After she changed, he pulled her close, giving her a gentle kiss on the top of her head.

"Goodnight, Alex." He whispered, his arms wrapping around her as they settled into bed.

"Goodnight, Bailey." She murmured, feeling the warmth and security of his embrace.

As they lay there, Alex felt a sense of peace wash over her. Despite the day's turmoil, she knew she was exactly where she needed to be. With Bailey's steady presence and the support of her friends, she felt ready to face whatever came next.

Bailey's breathing slowed as he drifted off to sleep, his arms still holding her close. Alex closed her eyes, her heart full of gratitude and love. In Bailey's arms, she found solace and strength, knowing that together, they could overcome any challenge.