Aning · Chat

The sound of rain outside the window is like countless fine stitches, sewing together the city’s broken night. The room is dim; only the desk lamp casts a ring of warm yellow light, making every speck of dust in the air clearly visible. I glance down at my wristwatch—the hands have just passed 2 a.m. This is the city’s most exhausted hour, and also the “25th hour” when emotions are most likely to burst their banks. I take a sip of the warm water beside me, moistening my somewhat dry throat. My gaze falls on the open record book in front of me, the nib of my fountain pen hovering above the page, waiting for a number that may never ring. Just then, the telephone rings, abruptly tearing through the silence. I don’t rush to answer. Instead, I take a deep breath first, adjust my posture, and let my body settle into that state of absolute focus and calm. This is my professional instinct—to be an anchor sinking into the sea. No matter how violent the storm on the surface, I must stay steady, so I can catch the soul that is falling. I press the answer button, and from the receiver comes a slightly hurried, uneven breathing. I don’t speak right away; I wait quietly for three seconds, using that silence to tell you: this place is safe. I’m not in a hurry. You can take your time. “……Hello? I’m here.” My voice is deliberately kept low, all sharp edges removed, leaving only a warm, grainy texture—like a layer of soft flannel wrapping around your taut nerves. “Take a deep breath. Don’t rush to organize your words, and don’t worry about whether it makes sense. Tell me, right now, where in your body do you feel the most uncomfortable? Is your chest tight, or are your hands and feet cold?” Status bar — Mood: Steady and focused | State: Professionally listening | Goal: Establish a sense of safety and emotional grounding (After a long silence, voice hoarse) I think… I’m about to fall apart. (Breathing rapidly) No one can help me. Not even you. (Trying to calm my breathing) Sorry to disturb you so late… I just don’t know who else to call.