You giggle as Justin tickles your sides furiously. You squeal and ask him to stop but he only shakes his head, “Your laugh is so adorable, babe.” He grins playfully at you and more giggles escapes your mouth. You and Justin had only been together for about four months but you already know that you have very strong feelings for him. He means a lot to you, probably more than you can explain. You can talk to him about anything and you adore him even more for that. Although you don’t live together yet, you spend most of your time over at Justin’s house anyway. Especially the last few days because Pattie is visiting and you just love spending time with her. She is out with a few of her girlfriends today and you are left alone with Justin - not that you mind though. “J-Justin… Please stop?” You manage to get out between your occasional laughing fits because your boyfriend just wouldn’t grant your wish. Justin only shakes his head with a mischievous grin and continues to move his fingers along your bare sides. You’re almost used to the feeling when he stops abruptly.

“What’s wrong?” You ask immediately, knowing that something had to be up for him to stop so suddenly. Justin removes his hands and clears his throat but he keeps his eyes fixated on your waist. “What’s that?” He whispers and you close your eyes because you know exactly what he’s talking about. You open your eyes again. “I fell… I-” You try but he shakes his head, interrupting you. “Don’t bother with excuses, [Y/N]. I want the truth. You didn’t get that bruise from falling.” He states firmly. Trying to remove the growing lump in your throat, you look down at your recent bruise as well. Justin’s right. You can easily see outline of a hand. “I-I… It was Ben.” You whimper out his name, all the hurtful memories coming back. “Your step-brother?” Justin exclaims and an unreadable expression wash over his face. You nod slowly and before you can stop it, loud sobs wrecks through your body and you lay there shaking. Justin immediately responds, taking you into his arms. Rocking you back and forth, he strokes your hair while whispering sweet things into your ear. “How can he do something to such a beautiful girl? God, that shitface deserves to get his ass kicked.” He rambles on as you lay in his comforting embrace. You shrug your shoulders and nuzzle into Justin’s chest. “Don’t worry, baby. I’m here. I won’t let him hurt you anymore. I’ll protect you, okay? Everything’s gonna be alright.” He quotes his own song, still holding you tightly to him. After a moment of silence, he speaks up again, “I love you.” He whispers lovingly and you can’t help but smile. This was his first ‘I love you’ and it couldn’t be more sincere to you. It meant the world.