Gemotions

The streetlights cast long shadows as he walked towards the building. His chest felt tight, an almost unbearable pressure. He felt… prepared. Tonight, he wouldn't be the kid who ran away, who hid. Tonight, he would face the music.

He pulled open the heavy glass door, the automatic lights flicking on. He took another breath, forcing the air into his lungs. He walked up to the reception desk.

“I have an appointment,” he said, his voice steady. He gave his name. The receptionist, a young woman with kind eyes, nodded. "Dr. Matthews will see you shortly."

He sat down in the waiting room, the silence amplifying the thumping in his ears. He was ready to meet his childhood tormentor, now a Doctor of the mind. He felt like he had been training for this his entire life.