I nod, still looking down at my lap. "Y-you're right... I just never thought anyone would ever understand..." Tears begin to stream down my face again as I finally let go of all the hurt and fear that's been building up inside me for so long.

I can't help it anymore; I just launch myself at him, wrapping my arms around his waist and burying my face in his chest. Soft sobs wrack my body as relief washes over me, and for the first time in what feels like forever, I feel safe and protected. "Thank you..." I murmur between sniffles, clinging to him like a lifeline. "T-thank you."

I don't know how long we stay like this, just holding each other and letting the tears flow freely.