may I suggest Wukong having bad anxiety and not knowing what it is until Sandy finds him acting all twitchy and explains it to him? That it’s kinda not normal to wake up with paranoia and dread every morning??
Sandy's hands were warm and comforting.
"You have to understand, Wukong," His voice was just as warm and comforting. It eased the dread that had been making his stomach twist so awfully. "That...this isn't normal."
"It is- It has to be." He needed to be ready. He had always needed to be vigilant in case a demon took Tripitaka in the night. "It's better safe than sorry."
"For what?"
Wukong opened his mouth and then shut it. That...was a good point. Old enemies were crawling out of the woodwork, but Sandy and the others had more than demonstrated that they could protect themselves.
So why was he so terrified?
"Wukong, my friend, I think you need help." Sandy's voice was gentle. "You were a warrior for centuries. Of course, you've learned behaviors that probably saved your life." It had, it had saved Tripitaka and the others more times than he could count. "But, it is not helping you. It's not normal. You need help, and I know it sounds harsh-"
"But you're right." Wukong leaned against Sandy's massive pec, soaking up the feeling of the gentle giant. "Y...You're right. I've denied it for a while, but I need help." He sighed. "Thanks, buddy."
Sandy didn't say a word, but simply held him closer.
