Yu’s breaths came in ragged gasps, his whole body trembling as he sat huddled on the floor. Panic clawed at his chest, making it hard to breathe, to think—until cool hands cupped his cheeks, grounding him.

“Yu, look at me,” Mika’s voice was soft but firm, cutting through the storm raging in Yu’s mind. Yu forced his eyes up, finding Mika’s calm blue gaze steady and reassuring. “Breathe with me. In… and out.”

Mika’s thumbs wiped away Yu’s tears, his hands gentle and steady. Slowly, Yu’s breathing started to even out, matching Mika’s, the panic ebbing away as he followed each guided breath. Mika leaned his forehead against Yu’s, his hand moving to the back of Yu’s neck, rubbing soothing circles.

“You’re safe,” Mika whispered, his voice a quiet comfort in the stillness. “I’m here.”

Yu clutched Mika’s shirt, feeling the warmth and the solid presence beneath his fingers. He let himself lean into Mika, the panic melting away under the soft reassurances. Minutes later, the crushing weight on his chest had lightened, and Yu let out a shaky breath, pressing his face into Mika’s shoulder.

“Thank you,” he murmured, his voice barely audible. Mika just smiled, pulling him close, holding him tighter.

“No need,” Mika said gently, his voice filled with warmth. “I’ll always be here for you.”