Moon Stalk

Chapter One

"...I can never forgive him. Not truly. He's done too much and I-"

As I continued to write down her recollection of past events, my client's cell phone began to ring with notifications.

"Ah. I'm afraid I'll have to cut this session short. I'll still pay you for the full hour, of course."

"Don't worry, Margaret. Do you have plans after this?"

"Yes, my girls and I are celebrating my 6 month anniversary."

"6 months without your abusive ex, correct?"

From what I understand, Margaret has successfully separated herself from an abusive 8 year relationship. I've been her therapist for the past year and was the one who pushed her to leave him.

Being her aunt, of course I would.

"You deserve a night of celebration, Margaret. Call me in the morning so we can reschedule you a true session, this time for a full one."

"Heh. Of course aun- I mean, doctor."

Chuckling, I rose to give my niece a hug before she retrieved her coat, purse and other personal items. After leaving, my receptionist began to page me.

"Hello Gabe. What can I do for you?" I answered the phone.

"Hello ma'am. That fellow, Jimmy Boyle, has left you another message."

"Thank you Gabe. I'll listen to it now, but please send the transcript to my personal email."

"Right away miss."

Ending the call, I played the recording Jimmy Boyle left me.

"Where is she? That fucking bitch thinks she can leave me after 8 years and I'll just let her go? I know you know where she is, I know she's talking shit about me, and I know you're her fucking doctor. I'll find that whore, Margaret. I'll find her."

If you want my niece, Mr. Jimmy Boyle, first you'll have to get past me. And if you even try it... Doctor Sierra Moon is ready for you.

So fucking try it, bastard.

After the phone call ended, I sighed, rolling my neck back with a crack. While I loved my job and being able to help people, especially my niece, it can be stressful.

Needing a drink of something to keep me awake, I paged Gabe once more.

"You called, Dr. Moon?"

"Yes, I'm going out to grab something to drink. Can you tell me if I have any upcoming appointments today?"

"Just Harvey at 4:00. He's usually here 12 minutes early though, just as a reminder."

"Thank you Gabe. Did you want anything to drink while I'm out? Anything to eat?"

"Could you grab me a turkey and swiss sandwich from the sub place down the street? That with maybe a grape soda?"

"Sure thing. Light mayonnaise, right? And request for extra toasted bread?"

"My hero."

"Heh. Alright I'll be back between 20, 25 minutes."

"Thanks doc. I'll hold any calls during that time. Stay safe."

"You as well Gabe."

Standing up, I walked over to my beige sweater, putting it on. After retrieving my handbag, I was out the door.

I left the heated office building to be plunged into the slightly chilly air of Seattle, rain cascading down the streets. I went to my blue 2017 car and hopped inside, shielding myself from the water droplets.