Damien didn't say a word more. He simply tightened his arms around Fred and continued to pet his back in slow, steady strokes, as though afraid that if he stopped, Fred might break all over again. He rested his chin lightly against Fred's head, letting the silence speak for him.
After what felt like forever, Fred's breathing finally began to steady. The sobs reduced to shaky inhales, and with a deep breath, he gently withdrew himself from Damien's hug. He quickly wiped his face with the back of his hand, forcing a small smile as though embarrassed by his own vulnerability.
"I'm… I'm so sorry about that," Fred said softly, his voice still thick with emotion as he sniffed. "I get really emotional whenever I talk about my family."
Damien looked at him calmly, his expression gentle but serious. "It's fine, Fred. And you don't have to apologize," he replied, releasing a quiet sigh. "We all have stories to tell. Not every story is happy, and that's okay."
