I'll Always Be Here

Two nameless characters share a sweet moment. TW: anxiety attack

There were people everywhere. It was noisy, chaotic, crowded. I hated places like this.

I felt it coming, yet I couldn't stop it. My heart pounded in my chest. My body began to tremble and wouldn't stop. My breaths became shallower until no air seemed to enter my lungs. My vision blurry with tears, the crowd around seemed to become even louder, more chaotic.

Escape. I needed to escape. But where? Everywhere I turned was just more people. There was no way out. I hated this. Make it stop!

Suddenly I felt a gentle hand on my shoulder. It guided me out, away from everybody. We came upon and empty room, quiet and calm, just the way I like it.

I sink to the ground and sat, hugging my knees. They sat beside me and wrapped an arm over my shoulders.

"I-I'm sorry." I said through the sobs I couldn't stop.

"Don't be. This isn't your fault." They replied.

"No, it is. I-it's my fault I'm like this."

"Don't tell yourself that. It isn't true."

"But-" I started.

"Shh.." They soothed. "Just breathe."

They took my hand with their own free one. I loved their touch. They knew how calming it was for me, but not how much I enjoyed it, or why.

My breathing started to slow, and the shaking subsided.

"How are you feeling?" They asked gently.

"Better because you're here." I answered, and lay my head on their shoulder.

They smiled. "I'll always be here."

"I love you." I looked up at them with a smile, my eyes still watery from crying.

"I love you too." They grinned back. Then, as I returned to leaning against them, I heard them whisper, "more than you know."

Author's Note

Please keep in mind that this is not a continuation of last chapter, though they are the same characters.
All reviews and comments are appreciated:)
Edit: I changed all the pronouns to they/them.