Gemotions

Thomas slumped against the wall, the harsh fluorescent lights of the hospital hallway seeming to bore into his skull. He’d been up since dawn, juggling work and visiting his ailing mother. His eyelids felt impossibly heavy. He longed for the peace of his own bed.

His appointment was with Dr. Peterson. He’d only met her once, but that first meeting had been a struggle to keep alert. He shuffled into the office, the click of the door echoing in the cavern of his mind.

“Thomas, come in, take a seat.” The therapist gestured towards a plush sofa. Thomas walked closer, then froze. The therapist wasn't Dr. Peterson. It was Brenda, the girl who used to steal his lunch money in fifth grade. The world seemed to wobble. He could barely focus on her words. He just wanted to go home and lie down.