Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee permeated the air as Maya sat on the balcony, watching the city wake up. The morning sun bathed everything in a golden glow. She felt her muscles unknot, her shoulders sinking. She could have stayed there forever.

She'd been hesitant about seeking professional help, but the panic attacks were getting worse. The therapist's name had not meant anything to her, and she had just confirmed the appointment.

She walked in and saw it was Frank. Her former tormentor, Frank. The one who had made her life hell. He smiled and ushered her in. “Maya, come on in. Have a seat. Where do you want to start?” Maya sat, her breath catching in her throat, feeling the first stirrings of something that wasn’t fear.