The night had settled in, quiet and still, as Elian lay comfortably in bed, cradled in Izan's arms. Elian was now laying on Izan's chest as he traced small circles on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his breathing. He could tell what happened between Izan and his step-family was weighing on his mind, even as he held him close.
The silence between them was not uncomfortable, but heavy with unsaid things.
Izan tightened his grip on Elian, drawing him even closer. His eyes were open, staring at nothing in particular, but his mind was far from the present moment. The day had been long, filled with revelations that had left him hollow inside. Finally, after what seemed like hours, he broke the silence.
"It's been a terrible day, Elian," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. His breath hitched as he spoke, the words catching in his throat. "I thought... I thought I was prepared for whatever came, but nothing could have prepared me for this."
