45. Unlisted

[Carys]

It took my mind a while to realize what was happening while my instincts were already doing what should be done in that situation.

“Kian, it’s ok,” I said in a calm tone, forcing a smile on my face. “It’s alright. Take slow, deep breaths with me, ok?” I guided him through the breaths, inhaling and exhaling at count of four. I held his hands tightly. “I am here with you. This is going to pass. Breathe with me, hmm?” I nodded.

He nodded. Eventually, his breaths slowed down.

“Tell me five things you can see,” I said.

He glanced around, “laptop, table, documents, bed, you.”

I smiled, “good. Now, any four things you can touch.”

“Couch…” he took a deep breath and then gulped. His hands tightened around mine. “Your hands, your shirt, and your nails.”

“Ok, fair enough,” I smiled again. “Any three things you can hear?”

“Your breaths… your heartbeats… and your voice.”

I chuckled awkwardly, “right? Good. Two things you can smell.”

“Your shampoo… your scent.”

I nodded once. “Ok. One thing