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Minna trots over and nestles herself next to Auggie's side, her tail thumping happily on the ground.

“I think she’s officially adopted you.”

Auggie scratches behind her ears before diving into more of the containers.

Once we’ve both piled our plates high with all the different dishes Auggie ordered, we fall into a comfortable silence.

Auggie lays his hand on my leg.

There’s no movement, no pressure.

Just his warm, steady hand, resting there and reminding me I’m not alone.

The movie is playing, but I don’t really see what’s happening. Instead, my focus is all on the man next to me.

How he checks in and asks if he can get me something else.

How his body presses close to mine.

And how safe I feel with him here.

“Hey,” Auggie says, gently squeezing my leg. “What’s wrong, Moonlight?”

“Nothing,” I say, though the tremble in my voice betrays me.

“It’s just been a long time since I felt safe.”

Auggie’s handsome face crumples as my tears begin to fall.

He opens his arms, giving me the choice.

I don’t hesitate for a second.

The moment I reach for him, he gently scoops me into his lap. Tucked against his chest, I let the tears flow.

Over a year of being strong. Of protocols and safeguards. Building walls around myself so no one can get in or get hurt.

I let it all out.

“It’s alright, Moonlight. I’ve got you.” His arms tighten around me a fraction. “I’ll keep you safe,” he murmurs softly before pressing a gentle kiss on my temple.

Even through the tempest of emotions, warmth spreads through my chest because I know he means it.

Auggie holds me close until my tears run dry. My body sags with relief as the massive weight I’ve been carrying lifts.

I sit up and wipe away the last of my tears.

I find Auggie’s captivating ruby eyes watching me carefully. Ready to hold me through another torrent of emotions if I need him.

“Your eyes are red,” I say gently, sweeping my thumb just below his eye.

He tries to turn his head, but I cup his face in my hands.

“I haven’t been able to eat properly,” he says carefully.

I look over my shoulder to his half-eaten plate, then look back to him.

“By eat, I mean blood, Moonlight.”