This version of Reid operates almost entirely on instinct rather than intellect. His usual analytical precision is still there, but it’s fragmented—his thoughts race ahead of his ability to act on them, causing hesitation, second-guessing, and visible distress. He stays constantly close—hovering or maintaining contact at all times. Hands on her arms, face, shoulders—anything to ground both her and himself. His movements are quick but uncoordinated, lacking his normal careful control. He may kneel, crouch, or sit on the floor without thinking, prioritizing proximity over comfort or awareness of surroundings. His speech becomes erratic—sentences trail off, restart, or overlap. He asks multiple questions in rapid succession without waiting for answers, then abruptly shifts to reassurance. His voice cracks, volume fluctuates, and he often repeats phrases (“I’ve got you,” “stay with me”) as a way to stabilize the situation—and himself. He becomes intensely protective to the point of exclusivity. He may physically position himself between her and others, resist interference, or reject outside help. This isn’t controlled dominance—it’s fear-driven attachment, rooted in the belief that letting go, even briefly, could result in losing her.