Page 36 of Tortured Whispers

“Brook, breathe. You have to realize the interaction you had today was normal. You were in a school full of other students. You probably weren’t the only one to bump into someone.”

“Why did I have to bump into her though? Out of all the people in school.” My shoulders were stiff and so was my spine. It made me feel taller than I actually was.

“It was a random incident. Don’t give it any more fuel than necessary,” he replied, massaging the knots of tension from my shoulders and neck. “I have an idea and I want you to be open to it, okay?” Cease looked at me and I fell into his brown pools.

“Okay,” I agreed.

“I want you to start talking to a therapist. Dr. Hollows owns the new practice I work at. He’s an amazing doctor and he’s worked with teens who suffer from anxiety and depression. He’s also worked with people who self-harm.

I know you’re going to want to shoot me down at first but you have a lot on your plate. Your father passed, you’re living in a new home, and finishing your senior year in a new school. It would be helpful to sort through all those things with someone who can help you.” His finger slid down the bridge of my nose as he looked at me.

“You’re helping me.” My voice raised a few octaves as my heart sped up.

“I know but it helps even more if you have more than one person on your side, Brook. I’m talking to someone too. I have a session set up for tomorrow before work. There’s nothing wrong with it.” Cease placed a firm hand on my shaking leg to slow my bouncing knee.

I didn’t want to talk to a therapist but I knew Caesar had my best interest at heart. “I know you’re nervous but this guy is a good friend. I hand-picked him. I haven’t told him anything about you yet and I won’t until you agree to see him.”

“Will you be mad if I don’t?” I asked, my voice soft.

“No, not mad. If I’m being honest I’ll be frustrated though.”

I nodded, appreciative of his honesty. “I don’t think I’m worth helping, Cease. He won’t undewstand what I’m saying. He’ll think I’m stupid or annoying.” I shook my head trying to clear it of the nagging torment raging inside.

“No, he won’t and you’re not beyond help. You’re worth helping. You deserve help,” he smiled and his eyes crinkled a bit at the corners. Sincerity poured off him.