Gemotions

The lukewarm coffee sloshed over the rim of the paper cup as David approached the familiar building. His stomach churned. It was the same building, the same block, that had been the site of so many youthful humiliations. Now, it housed Dr. Riley – his former tormentor, Thomas. He hadn't expected to seek therapy, but grief, a cruel master, had led him here.

He could still hear the echoes of Thomas's laughter, the taunts, the stinging slaps. David had been an easy target, shy and awkward. He paused at the door, his hand trembling as he reached for the handle.

The waiting room was surprisingly tranquil, filled with soft music and the scent of lavender. When Thomas called him in, David found himself staring at a man he barely recognized. The cruel glint in his eye was gone, replaced by something… softer. "David, please come in," Thomas said, gesturing toward a comfortable armchair. His voice was steady, professional. David sat, the paper cup now forgotten on the floor. He swallowed, unable to meet Thomas’s gaze, but the feeling of pure terror hadn't yet arrived.