Gemotions

The air in Dr. Evans’ office was thick with the scent of vanilla and something else...something cloying. Michael sat stiffly on the edge of the couch, carefully avoiding eye contact. The room was designed for comfort, but all he felt was unease.

He recalled the sting of a specific playground incident. Now, here was Jessica, his childhood tormentor, offering insight and solutions to his problems. He doubted she even remembered the incident.

He picked at a loose thread on the cushion. He’d read reviews. All five-star. How could this be? He took a deep, forced breath. He was determined not to break, not to give her the satisfaction.