Philip woke and stretched. The morning was drizzly and grey. He wasn't sure if it would be a great day to go out and jog. In fact, he really didn't want to do much of anything. But he had a routine to follow, and not going out would have made him feel worse than staying in. No need for that, he thought, and dressed quickly in his track clothes.

He brushed his teeth and grabbed a banana, which he ate in three large bites on his way to putting his shoes on and grabbing his headphones. He would go around the block at least, and listen to his favorite musician singing passionate love ballads. He didn't like admitting what a hopeless romantic he was, but the truth was in his play list.

Most people wouldn't have thought of him to be the sentimental type. He was muscular, athletic, and masculine, but deep down he knew what his heart wanted more than anything, and that was a partner who would let him feel safe to feel vulnerable. It was one thing to put on a strong face for the rest of the world, but what he really wanted was to be with someone who would let him be himself.

Philip sighed, pushing the thought away. He had to brace himself to go out in the cool rain. He would wear his shorts but slip on a grey sweatshirt that fit his mood and the weather. He stuck his headphones in his ears and walked outside, locking the door behind him.