Gemotions

A wave of nausea hit Mark as he saw the nameplate: “Dr. Kevin Thompson, LCSW.” Kevin Thompson. His Kevin Thompson, the one who had delighted in hiding his lunch, the one who spread rumors about his awkwardness, the one who made his life hell for years. Mark felt a knot tighten in his throat. He should have looked up the doctor before scheduling the appointment. He ran a hand over his suddenly clammy forehead.

He thought of leaving. He could just walk out. His car was right outside. But he’d been putting off dealing with his anxiety for far too long. He’d come too far now. He entered the office.

“Come in, Mark!” Kevin greeted him with an unnervingly jovial tone. He gestured towards a plush armchair. Mark almost recoiled. The thought of sitting in the same room, let alone *talking* to that person, sent a wave of revulsion through him.