This was a time when Derek wished that words came easily to him, that he could say something to explain that he wouldn't let her hurt herself, punish herself, in this way. That he understood the desire, the preference for physical pain over emotional.
He made a soft, shushing sound, like to a frightened animal or small child, and as she crumpled, he pulled her closer, arms like iron bands as he came around her, snug and unyielding.
"I've got you," he said, soft, but firm. "I've got you."