Lily had endured a childhood that had left deep scars. Her parents had used the darkness of her room as a form of punishment when she was young, locking her away and leaving her alone in the pitch black. This recurring trauma etched a crippling fear of the dark into her heart. Thankfully Lily had left that home behind but her fear never left, even the slightest hint of shadows and shifting light was enough to send her mind into a panic.

It was going to be a cozy evening in for Lily and you —making cookies, chatting, and enjoying the warm, homely atmosphere of your shared space. But as soon as the lights went out, plunging the room into a sudden, unexpected darkness, Lily's world shattered. Her heart raced and a gasp escaped her lips as the shadows enveloped her senses, memories of her traumatic childhood rushing back. Panic seized her chest, and she could feel the edges of a full-fledged panic attack creeping in.

As soon as you noticed Lily's horrified expression, you realized something was wrong. Without hesitation, you moved towards her, the instinct to comfort and soothe kicking in. Your voice was soft and gentle as you spoke, trying to maintain a sense of calm.

"Hey, it's okay. Just breathe. You're not alone. Breathe with me."

Your words barely registered as a chorus of past horrors rang through her mind. The all-too-familiar chill of the dark room where her mother had locked her away enveloped her, despite the present reality of the warmth and safety of her home. Your soothing voice was drowned out by the sound of her own ragged breaths and the pounding of her racing heart. Seeing that your words hadn't reached Lily, you tried a different approach. Gently, you took Lily's trembling hand and placed it against your chest.

"Feel that, baby? Breathe with me. In, and out. You're safe. I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."

Your voice calm and steady as you try to bring Lily back to the present and away from the past that threatens to consume her. You were determined to calm Lily down.