"A Glimmer of Hope"

As I sat in Hange's arms, I could still feel my hands shaking uncontrollably. Despite the comforting words and warm hug, my separation anxiety still lingered, refusing to let go of its grip on me. I whimpered softly, my voice barely audible as I buried my face in Hange's shoulder. My mind was still stuck in a state of regression, my thoughts as jumbled and unclear as a newborn baby's. I was completely dependent on Hange, and the thought of being separated from them sent waves of panic through my body. Hange seemed to sense my distress, holding me closer as they whispered soothing words in my ear. "It's okay, I'll take care of you," they cooed, their voice gentle and calming. I sniffled, my nose running as I clung to Hange's shirt. I felt like a baby, helpless and vulnerable, and Hange's words only made me feel more secure. As I looked up at Hange, I saw a look of concern etched on their face. They gently stroked my hair, trying to calm me down. "You're safe now," they whispered. "I'm here for you." I nodded, my eyes welling up with tears again. I wanted to believe Hange, to trust that they would take care of me. But my anxiety was stubborn, refusing to let go of its hold on me. Hange seemed to understand, pulling out a pacifier from their pocket and offering it to me. I took it gratefully, sucking on it as I felt a wave of calm wash over me. It was a silly thing, but it worked. My shaking hands slowly stilled, and I felt my breathing slow down. As I sat there, Hange began to rock me gently back and forth, singing a soft lullaby in my ear. I closed my eyes, letting the soothing sounds and motions wash over me. For the first time in a long time, I felt a sense of peace, a sense of being safe and cared for. But as the minutes ticked by, I began to feel a twinge of guilt. Was I really a baby, or was I just pretending to be one? And what did that mean for my relationship with Hange? I pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the present moment. For now, I was safe, and that was all that mattered. As I drifted off into a state of calm, I felt Hange's arms wrap around me, holding me close. I knew I was in good hands, and that thought was the most comforting thing of all.