Chapter 3: Frustration and Support

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Weeks had passed, and Alexia's rehabilitation was becoming more grueling with each passing day. The persistent pain in her injured knee was accompanied by a growing frustration that seemed to magnify the moment she picked up her phone. The media and social media had become a constant reminder of her sidelined status.

One afternoon, as Alexia sweated through her physical therapy exercises, her phone buzzed with notifications. She reluctantly checked her messages and was met with a barrage of headlines and social media posts discussing her injury, the future of her career, and the team's performance without her. It felt as if the world was dissecting her life in the public eye, judging her every step and misstep.

Angrily, she sent a message to Jenni, her words laced with frustration, "Jenni, I can't take this anymore. It's like they're ripping me apart in the media and on social media. They have no idea what I'm going through, the pain, the uncertainty, and yet they act like they do. It's so unfair, and it's driving me crazy!"

Jenni received the message and knew that her friend was reaching a breaking point. She had been researching age regression and had even started experimenting with some techniques to understand better what Alexia might be seeking. She had tried calming exercises herself to manage her emotions and offer advice to her friend.

With a sympathetic understanding of the stress Alexia was under, Jenni replied, "I can't imagine how tough this must be for you, Alexia. The media and the critics don't understand the pain and the frustration you're experiencing. But remember, you don't have to go through this alone. When things get overwhelming, try to take deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on the present moment. Maybe even try a visualization exercise, like imagining a peaceful place from your childhood. I'm here for you, and we'll get through this together."

Alexia, sitting in her dimly lit living room, took a deep breath and closed her eyes, as per Jenni's advice. She wanted desperately to find the calm and peace that age regression therapy could offer, even if only for a fleeting moment. With her eyes shut tight, she tried to clear her mind and focus on visualizing a place from her childhood, but it was proving to be a challenging task.

She sent a message to Jenni, her words tinged with sadness, "Jenni, I'm trying to visualize a place, like you said, but it's not working. I close my eyes, and all I see is darkness. I can't remember a specific place from my childhood, and it's frustrating. I feel like I'm failing even at this."

Jenni read the message and could sense the frustration and sadness in Alexia's words. She knew that age regression wasn't an instant remedy and that it took time and practice. Her heart ached for her friend's struggle, and she responded with gentle reassurance, "It's okay, Alexia. Remember, this is a skill that can be developed over time. Don't be too hard on yourself. Try to think of a place, even a simple one, like a park, a beach, or a garden. Picture the details—the colors, the smells, the sounds. Let your mind wander, and don't force it. It might take a few tries, but you'll get there."

Alexia's lip quivered as she read Jenni's words, touched by her friend's support and understanding. She knew that she needed to be patient with herself, just as Jenni had been with her.

Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes once more, attempting to follow Jenni's advice. This time, she thought of the park near her childhood home. She remembered the feeling of warm sun on her face, the sound of laughter from children playing, and the sight of vibrant flowers in full bloom. With each detail she conjured in her mind, a sense of serenity slowly began to wash over her.

She texted back to Jenni, "I'm trying to picture the park near my old house. I can see the swings, the green grass, and the vibrant flowers. It's getting a bit clearer. Thanks for your patience and guidance, Jenni. I'm lucky to have you as my friend."

Jenni's response was filled with warmth and encouragement, "I'm here for you, Alexia, every step of the way. We'll continue to work on this together. You're never alone in this journey." She knew that age regression was just one tool, and that the path to healing and finding peace would be an ongoing process. But with their unwavering friendship, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead, emerging stronger and more resilient.

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