Gemotions

“Take a seat, Evelyn.” The voice was overly cheerful, too bright. Evelyn recognized it instantly. It was Jason. Jason from the playground. Jason, who had always been bigger and stronger. Jason, who had stolen her favorite doll and broken it. Jason, who had made her life miserable for years.

She stood frozen in the doorway, her breath catching in her throat. The office was impeccably decorated, all soft rugs and calming artwork. And Jason, now a therapist, sat behind a large, mahogany desk, a picture of professional serenity. It was all a little too much.

She slowly walked to the chair, the legs feeling heavy. "I, uh, thought you were... " she stammered, unable to finish the sentence.

Jason smiled, a carefully constructed, understanding smile. "Surprised? Life takes us in unexpected directions, doesn't it?" Evelyn’s knuckles were white as she gripped the arms of the chair.