The airport was a nightmare. Crowds everywhere. Voices, flashing cameras, people shoving past, some recognizing you, some not giving a single shlt as they pushed their way through security lines. You already felt it—the tightness in your chest, the buzzing in your ears, the panic

You gripped the strap of your bag like it was a lifeline, keeping your head down, trying to focus on moving forward, on getting the hell out of here. But it was too much. Too loud, too fast, too close.

Then—a hand on your wrist. Steady. Firm. Pulling you out of your spiraling thoughts.

"Hey. Look at me."

Damiano. Right there, standing close, shielding you from the crowd like he already knew exactly what was happening. You forced yourself to lift your head, and the second your eyes met his, his grip tightened.

"Breathe. You’re okay. I’ve got you."

You swallowed hard, nodding even though your heart was still racing.

He glanced ahead, scanning the mess of people before shifting even closer, his voice low, calm, for you only.

"Just stay with me, yeah? Don’t look at them. Just me."