Matthew’s POV
I held Sapphire close, feeling the small tremors run through her body. Her fear was tangible, almost suffocating, but I refused to let it take over. I tightened my arms around her, whispering the same promises over and over.
“Shh… listen to me, baby. We’ll figure this out, okay? One step at a time,” I murmured against her hair.
The weight of what was happening didn’t scare me the way it scared her I felt ready, because I wasn’t alone in this. Not now, not ever.
She leaned against my chest, hiccupping from suppressed sobs. Her small hands gripped my shirt like she was holding on for her life. And in that moment.
I made a silent vow. I’d shoulder everything for her. I’d be the one to protect her, to fight for her, to make sure she never felt small or alone again.
After
