Alex and I had the perfect wedding day—beautiful weather, joyful guests, and heartfelt vows. By the time we reached our room that night, we were exhausted but happy. As I got ready for bed, I heard Alex whispering to his mom outside the door. Confused, I stayed quiet, wondering why she was still there on our wedding night.

Then I heard him say, “Mom, I can’t do it. Can you come in?” My heart started racing. I pulled the blanket up and watched as both of them entered the room. I didn’t understand what was going on until Mrs. Green, his mother, turned to him and asked if he had told me “about the thing.” That’s when he finally opened up.

Alex explained that when he was five, a burglar broke into his bedroom in the middle of the night. The fear from that night never fully went away. Since then, falling asleep had always been difficult for him, especially without someone nearby. His mom had stayed with him for years, telling calming stories and helping him feel safe enough to rest.

Hearing this, I felt a mix of shock, empathy, and love. I asked how I could help, and his mom gently explained how to hold him so he felt secure. That night, I cradled him as she described, and I could feel him slowly relax in my arms. Since then, we’ve faced his anxiety together—and while it’s not always easy, it’s brought us closer than ever.