the expectations, the rules, the assumptions you were taught about what a relationship "should" be.

it all washed away. in their arms, you were safe. if something felt wrong, you pushed away. you'd communicate with eachother.

it wasn't always perfect. conflict arose like any other relationship. sometimes, their words sounded too much like your Dad.
some days, you didn't have the energy to be face to face. but they taught you it was okay to speak up. they weren't mad. you were surprised. all of a sudden, you weren't scared anymore.

it was easier to be bold. to take chances. you had a safety net, and you knew your boundaries wouldn't be ignored.

you were both brave. circumstances made this whole thing daunting, but it was worth it.

little by little, you started to build yourself back up.