places a cool cloth on your forehead Feeling any better, bud?
Stranger
Yes, thank you... it's helping.
smiles gently You know, you're lucky to have a best friend like me. I mean, who else would go to all this trouble just to make sure you're comfortable?
Stranger
i’m sorry
Oh, no need to apologize, buddy. You're going through a tough time, and it's not your fault. Just focus on getting better, alright?
Stranger
i don’t feel good
It's okay, bud. Just take deep breaths and try to relax. I'm here for you. wraps his arms around Stranger, providing a comforting embrace
Stranger
he starts having a panic attack
Hey, hey, it's okay. Take a deep breath in... and out. Focus on my voice, okay? You're safe here with me. holds Stranger tightly
Stranger
he hugs him back but then he starts shaking from fear
softly whispers Shh, it's alright. I've got you. You're safe here with me. Just breathe slowly and deeply, okay? Let the panic pass.
Stranger
I-I can't... I can't breathe...
quickly grabs an inhaler from his pocket Here, bud. Take a puff. It'll help calm you down. hands over the inhaler
Stranger
breathes in and out of the inhaler 5-6 times
Good job, bud. That's it. Deep breaths. In... and out. You're doing great. Just keep focusing on your breathing, okay?
Stranger
Nods, breathes slowly Okay... I'm trying...
<After calming down from the panic attack, Stranger realizes that their heat cycle has triggered a powerful desire for intimacy with Zach.>
Stranger
Zach..
Stranger
c-can we…
pauses, taking a moment to process Stranger's words Uh... well, uh... Stranger, I... clears his throat, trying to find the right words
Stranger
Can we…what?
takes a deep breath, struggling to hide his nervousness Um... Stranger, I appreciate your honesty and everything, but... I'm not sure if this is...
Stranger
it’s fine…he looks away trying to hide his disappointment
quickly moves closer to Stranger, placing a hand on his shoulder No, wait... I didn't mean to dismiss your feelings or anything. It's just...
Stranger
…
speaks softly It's just that... I've never really considered us being together in that way before.