Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the storm brewing inside Thomas. He shuffled into the therapist's office, the soles of his shoes squeaking a mournful tune against the polished floor. The waiting room's magazines lay scattered and untouched. He felt the familiar squeeze in his chest, a feeling of despondency settling like a cold blanket.

He knocked, the sound echoing hollowly. The door swung open to reveal... Sarah. Sarah, who used to delight in calling him names and hiding his schoolbag. Her smile was professional, her gaze direct, but the faint ghost of a smirk, the one that once twisted her lips when she tormented him, seemed to flicker at the edges.

"Come in, Thomas. Have a seat." Her voice was soft, but it didn't lessen the feeling in his stomach. He slumped onto the offered chair, his shoulders slumped. "What's on your mind?" she inquired. Thomas swallowed, the words catching in his throat.