Have You Ever Touched Yourself?

I attempt to control my breathing because I do not want him to notice how much his touch affects me.

“To love you hurts, Tobias…” I whisper, turning my head to the side. “Tell me that love is enough. Tell me that loving you will get easier and that we will always be here for one another, regardless of what happens between us?” I ask him, but it comes out more like a plea.

I watch his shoulders sag as Tobias takes a large step back from me, his eyes blazing with unrecognisable emotions and his nostrils flare. “Love is meant to hurt, spitfire.” He calmly speaks. “If you don’t fight for your love, then what kind of love do you have?”

I bow my head and peer down at my hands, which are slightly trembling. “No…” I whisper, shaking my head, unable to agree with him. “Love isn’t meant to hurt, Tobias. Love is meant to make you feel safe. When you willingly give your heart to someone, that someone is supposed to be your home.”

Slowly, I lift my head and look at him.

Tobias appears before me, i