The entire neat little building was sparkly new. It was a gorgeous office. The kind you didn’t mind sitting in while waiting forever for your appointment. Only she couldn’t wait to get out. The walls were closing in around her and so was her panic.
“Rachel.”
The therapist’s voice slithered like barbwire over her nerves. Kate . . . Kate Waldruff. Or something like that. Perfectly nice. Understanding. Professional. Appropriately sympathetic. It was all Rachel could do not to childishly put her hands over her ears.
Instead she stopped and turned around to face the worried expression of the therapist. Rachel’s heart thudded so painfully against her breast that she put one palm over her chest as if to hold it in.
“I wish you’d let me call someone for you at least. You’re upset.”
Rachel tried to smile. “I’m okay. Really. I just want to go home. Thank you for trying to help.”
Kate sighed. “I can’t work miracles in one session, Rachel. Give it some thought. Call me back when you’re ready.
