The panic didn't hit Anna until they were nearly to Arthur's room and by the time it did the alpha was close enough that he simply hauled Anna up into his arms and carried her the rest of the way. Setting her down on the alpha's bed, he smoothed her hair and kissed the side of Anna’s face.
Anna felt her entire body shake with wracking shudders, her body aching and her head spinning and her stomach tight and cramping. Each breath was a heaved effort and if it weren't for Arthur she probably would have hyperventilated. But the alpha sat beside where she was lied down, clutching Anna’s hand tightly and offering a constant, reassuring stream of comfort:
"You're going to be okay. You're fine now. You're safe. I'm here. Just focus on your breathing, Anna. Inhale… and then exhale… Now again, ok
