Page 64 of Rookie Days

“For bio-mechanics issues, you see a physiotherapist. If you need advice on how to tweak your nutrition, there are specialists for that too. And if your mind is not as clear as you’d like it to be sometimes, you find an expert. Did you see a psychologist when you were a kid?”

“Yes.” Now this came on a groan. “Several.”

“Not impressed at the result, I can tell.”

“That’s putting it mildly. Not even ten years old at the time and I could already see that it was all a bunch of manipulative bullshit.”

“I’m sorry you had bad experiences.”

“Well. I guess it happens, hey…”

“That’s right. And your opinion might improve if you gave my friend a chance. I think you may even like him. He’s not your run-of-the-mill shrink. Works with Olympic athletes, billionaire CEOs, and NASA.”

“NASA?” Ellie perked up.

“Yep. Training astronauts for challenging missions in space. These people are already pretty fit when it comes tophysical and mental health, but they do operate in extreme environments and situations that can mess up even the most grounded minds. You know.” Janet wriggled her eyebrows. “In space, no one can hear you go crazy.”

Ellie chuckled, loving her energy. Janet had listened to her story with rapt attention. She’d held her protectively throughout the whole thing, and still now. Even just a few days before, Ellie would have claimed that she did not need this kind of support from another woman. Now she had to change her opinion. Janet was compassionate, understanding, reassuring… Hell, she was even making her laugh.

“I think you’re exceptional,” she murmured. “Thanks for listening and not freaking out about this stuff.”

Her lover’s smile grew thoughtful.

“Thank you for telling me. And for walking your talk. You are pretty exceptional yourself, Detective.”

“What’s your NASA friend’s name?”

“Timothy Williams. And I can vouch for him professionally. A neurosurgeon can be faced with extreme situations from time to time, you know?”

“Yes, I’m sure.”

“I was like you, thinking none of this emotional stuff would affect me. But I struggled a few years ago after losing a patient. I found it helpful to talk to him then. I still reach out from time to time.”

“You do?” Ellie was left mystified. “Why?”

“Regular maintenance, darling. Like going to the dentist or the chiropractor. I take care of body and mind before they break down on me, so I can save lives another day. Get it?”

“Yeah. I do, actually.”

“You’re looking very pensive.”

“Just reflecting on how wrong I was, thinking that women like you didn’t need to bother with maintenance.”

“Women like me?”

“You know… Smart, beautiful, strong. Brilliant.”

“Well, now you know better. And I’m glad,” Janet chuckled ironically, “you weren’t too dazzled by my brilliance to be afraid of kissing me.”

Feeling relaxed once again, Ellie brushed a light finger over her lips.

“I was a bit nervous; I must admit.”

“Of course, you were.” Janet grinned, still in teasing mode. “It’s not every day you get to be nude and playful with a woman like me, uh?”

“Stop it,” Ellie laughed. Then, glancing at the clock. “Shit. I have to go soon.”

“It’s four a.m. Go where?”