Chapter 1: Introduction
As I make my way down the hallway, I notice that Zade's bedroom door is ajar, and a sense of calm washes over me. I pause in the doorway, taking in the sight of him engrossed in his video game, his attention fixed intently on the screen.
I appreciate how Zade can still find joy in things, while I struggle to find joy outside of our relationship and feel guilty about it. He sees me and smiles.
"Hey" he says, removing his headphones and the game console in his grasp.
"Hi," I say, walking towards him and smiling for the first time all day as his takes my hands in his. I notice him staring at me, which makes me anxious, so I decide to rip the bandage off now "Can I ask you a favor?"
"Of course, baby" he said "What's up, is their something wrong?"
I hesitated, biting my lip before speaking "Can you drive me to get my medication tomorrow? I know it's you day off and I know you'd rather be in bed or working on a project but I can-"
"Yes" Zade interrupted, before I could begin my spiral "I have no problem with that at all"
"Also" I added "Would it be possible for you to sign off of the medication? I can't signed for them on my own volition"
"Can I ask what they are for?" He asked "I don't mind signing for them, but I want to know more about what I'm signing for"
"Crovelam and Viciderm" I answered with a trace of guilt in my voice "It's for depression and ptsd. I haven't taken it in some time and thought I could handle it but-"
"Are experiencing withdrawal?" Zade answered as if he knew the answer before I could get the words out. I didn't answer but I think he could see it in my eyes.
Zade nodded and pulled me into a protective hug.
"I didn't want you to pity me" I murmured.
"I don't but I don't want you to put your own health at risk because you feel like you can't tell me things" Zade responded, pulling back to look into my eyes "We'll go first thing in the morning, right now I want you right here with me"
And that's where I stayed, right there in Zade arms.