Gemotions

The appointment had been scheduled weeks ago, a nagging item on his to-do list. The waiting room smelled of air freshener and forced optimism. He felt a profound sense of… nothing as he waited to be called. Then, the name: “Brenda.” Brenda, the girl who’d tormented him with cruel nicknames.

Brenda’s office was surprisingly warm, with soft lighting and a plush rug. "Hello," Brenda said, her voice gentle, "Please, have a seat."

He sat. He listened to her questions, replying in a flat tone. He explained his issues, his words as hollow as the room’s air. He watched Brenda’s face for any reaction, but there was only the professional mask. The past seemed a lifetime away, a distant memory that had no significance.