Half of a Whole

Chapter 22: My Safe Place

I walk right by his side on the way into my house. For the first time in what seems like forever I notice the crickets chirping outside my house. I notice that squirrel rustling in the bushes. When I try to put my key in the door I'm shaking so much that I can't do it.
"Here. Let me" he says softly as he motions for me to give him the key. I give it to him and wipe away a tear from my face.

When we get inside we head upstairs to my room with our hands interlocked. When I cross the threshold into my bathroom I feel a small tug. I look back to see a small hesitation but then we proceed into the room. I head over to my dresser with shaky hands and grab two t shirts and then a pair of gym shorts which Max had left here the other day. I hand them over to him. I walk over to a corner of the room and turn around so I don't flash him. I manage to put on my clothes and when I turn around I catch him quickly looking away. I blush a little but I'm still too scared to think anything of it. I walk over and get into my bed. He walks over to a couch in the corner and I give him a questioning look.
"Can you um. Stay with me?" I ask longingly.
He nods and walks over. I pull the sheets back and he gets in with me. When we are both in the bed he wraps his arms around me and I lay my head on his chest. I start to cry again.

"What is wrong with me. I couldn't even put the key in the door. What would I do without you?" He kisses my head and holds me close.
"Go to your safe place he says. Everything will be ok"
I browse my thoughts and think of anywhere that makes me happy or safe but I struggle finding one. But then I realize where it is.

"I'm already there" I respond. And with that I fall asleep in his arms. For the first time all day I feel safe.