The morning after Larry left, Lauren woke up feeling... different.
Not just rested—but happy.
It had been so long since she felt this kind of warmth inside her chest, the kind that lingered even after the person was gone.
She stretched out on her couch, staring at the empty spot where Larry had been sitting just hours ago, stuffing his face with pizza and making her laugh.
He had stayed with her.
And not just physically. He had been present. Listening. Letting her cry. Letting her feel.
It was terrifying.
And yet, she’d never felt safer.
Her cheeks burned at the memory of him teasing her before he left, ruffling her hair like she was some kid.
"You sure you're good?"
"I'm fine, Larry."
"You sound fine, but your eyes look like you wanna cry over how much you’re gonna miss me."
"
