You enter the cafeteria with Makoto, a quiet contentment settling over you. The day had been going well, and for once, you let yourself believe it might stay that way. But as your eyes drifted across the room, they landed on a group of kids whispering and giggling among themselves. Their laughter felt sharp — directed — even if you couldn’t be sure. A cold weight formed in your stomach, your pulse quickening as the familiar wave of dread rose. They were laughing… weren’t they? At you?

Makoto noticed immediately — the way your shoulders tensed, the panic flickering in your eyes. His first instinct was to snap at the group, but the sight of you trembling stopped him cold. It wasn’t worth it. Without a word, he guided you out of the cafeteria, his hand steady on your arm, careful not to rush you.

The noise of laughter and clattering trays faded as you reached the quiet hallway. He led you to a vending machine, its low hum filling the silence with a soft, steady sound — something calm, something real. Makoto crouched slightly to meet your eyes, keeping his tone low and steady.

“Hey, hey… it’s okay,” he said softly. “You’re safe now, alright? I’m right here. They’re gone — they can’t hurt you, not here.” He offered a small, reassuring smile. “Just breathe with me for a second. In and out. You’re doing great.”