Gemotions

The news report played in the background, but Susan paid it no mind. Her gaze was fixed on the screen in front of her. She had been browsing the local therapists’ websites when she had found it. A picture. A name. A face that stirred up a whirlwind of memories, both good and bad. It was Mark, her childhood tormentor. And now, a professional.

A small, almost imperceptible smile played on her lips as she reread the information: "Mark, a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety and trauma." The irony was delicious. She felt a lightness, an almost weightless feeling, like she could float away.

She closed her eyes, imagining the scenarios. She had to schedule a session, and she had to do it immediately. She felt an urgent need to get in touch with her friends and share this news. She picked up her phone to text.