Final answer:
At the beginning of the story, characters hold someone's arm to show comfort, support, protection, or affection, capturing the essence of their relationships and emotional states.
Step-by-step explanation:
At the beginning of the story, characters are often introduced through their interactions with others, which can include holding someone's arm. This action can serve a symbolic purpose, indicating a relationship or a specific emotional moment.
For example, a character may hold someone's arm or hand as a sign of comfort, support, protection, or affection. It is through these physical connections that authors can convey the bond between characters or the emotional state of a protagonist.
In the provided excerpts, we see various instances where characters hold another's arm. These moments offer a deep insight into their relationships and the emotional undercurrents present in the scenes. Whether it's seeking comfort, expressing love, or longing for connection, these gestures highlight key themes of companionship and support that often run through the narrative.
To create an atmosphere of intimacy and connection, authors use such gestures to add depth to their stories. The essence of human emotion and relationships can be captured through these subtle, yet powerful, interactions.