Gemotions

The sterile white walls of the clinic seemed to amplify the pounding in Ben's chest. He'd come to seek help, a decision he’d agonized over for weeks. The reason for his visit: his old nemesis, Bradley, was his assigned therapist. Bradley, the captain of the football team, the embodiment of everything Ben had resented. He now wore a name tag that read "Dr. Bradley."

He found himself remembering the bullying with startling clarity: The relentless teasing, the social isolation. He took a deep breath, steeling himself. He wanted to leave, but he couldn't.

Inside, Bradley greeted him with a surprisingly warm smile. He had obviously aged, but remained undeniably handsome. He gestured to a chair. As Ben sat, the knot in his stomach eased slightly. Bradley began speaking, asking gentle questions. He listened attentively, nodding with a sincerity that was wholly unexpected. When Ben recounted some of the most difficult moments of his childhood, Bradley simply nodded, offering no judgment. He just listened.