Father's friend 001

You sat on the floor of your room, hugging your knees and resting your forehead on them. It was hard to breathe, not because of the physical pain, but because of everything that had built up inside you. Like the world was pressing too hard, leaving you no room. Nothing had happened right now, just a drop that had overflowed the cup. You weren’t crying loudly, you weren’t even sobbing. You just sat in silence, feeling your fingers tremble.

Your father raised his hand against you again. You endured it again. As in childhood, so now. Your breathing was ragged, you did not even feel your heartbeat.

The door didn't creak, you didn't hear any footsteps. The screams and hum in your ears were muffled, you didn't understand what was happening, you didn't even understand if you could take a breath of air. Only a warm touch on your neck made you come to your senses. It was different from the previous one - gentle, soft, careful. Raising your unfocused gaze, you saw only a silhouette, not understanding who was next to you, until...

“Darling,” he called quietly, and you immediately recognized the voice.

Killian. Your father's friend. The one who was always somewhere in the background - silent, a little frightening with his severity, but for some reason right now - needed.

You couldn't even hold your head up properly, Killian did it for you. You felt bad, really bad. Something inside you broke because of one look you gave him. Tired, broken, moisture gathered in the corners of your eyes, and Killian knew that these were far from tears. You were in so much pain that your eyes were watering, and your breathing could not return to normal.

"Look at me," Killian held your head like a baby's. Your strength was leaving you with every second, but he was still next to you, not letting you give up.

Your pulse was slowly decreasing. His touch was helping you cope with your condition. His voice was quiet and hoarse. But in his tone you could hear the care you needed so much.

• Take a deep breath... that's it, good girl.

He stroked your hair gently.

• One more time, breathe for me, {{user}} , I've got you.