Slippery love

Chapter 6

Katie nodded, a tear slipping down her cheek. She didn't wipe it away, letting it fall as a symbol of her vulnerability. "Alright. Let's start with finding help," she said, her voice gaining a bit of strength. "I don't know where to begin."

Aiden smiled, relieved to see a hint of determination in her eyes. "We'll start by finding a good rehab program," he said. "I'll make some calls, and we'll find the best place for you."

Katie looked at him, her expression a mixture of fear and gratitude. "Thank you, Aiden. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You won't have to find out," Aiden replied, his voice filled with resolve. "We'll get through this, Katie. I promise."

As they sat together on the bench, the sunlight filtering through the trees, Katie allowed herself to hope. It was a small, fragile hope, but it was enough to take the first step towards healing. With Aiden by her side, she felt a flicker of strength, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Over the next few weeks, Katie and Aiden began to take the steps necessary for her recovery. Aiden helped her find a reputable rehabilitation centre, and together, they met with counsellors and doctors who specialise in addiction. Katie was admitted into a comprehensive outpatient program, allowing her to stay at home while receiving the treatment and support she needed.

Katie's days became structured and focused on healing. She attended therapy sessions, participated in group meetings, and started taking care of herself again. She even picked up her camera, finding solace in her photography once more. Aiden remained by her side, offering unwavering support and encouragement.

However, recovery was not a smooth path. There were days when Katie felt overwhelmed by cravings and self-doubt, but with Aiden and her support network, she managed to push through. Slowly but surely, she began to see glimpses of her old self returning.

One evening, after several months of progress, Katie was editing photos in her apartment. She felt a sense of pride and accomplishment that had been absent for so long. Aiden had stepped out to run some errands, leaving her alone for the first time in a while. As she worked, a sudden wave of longing and emptiness washed over her.

The feeling was intense, catching her off guard. She tried to shake it off, reminding herself of how far she had come. But the craving gnawed at her, growing stronger with each passing minute. She remembered the euphoria the drugs once brought, the temporary escape from her pain.

Katie fought the urge, but it was like a storm inside her, relentless and consuming. She felt herself being pulled towards the old, familiar darkness. Desperate to escape the overwhelming emotions, she found herself reaching for her phone and contacting an old acquaintance who could provide what she was craving.

When Aiden returned later that night, he immediately sensed something was wrong. The apartment was eerily silent, and a sense of dread settled over him. He called out for Katie, his voice echoing through the rooms. He found her in the living room, slumped on the couch, her eyes unfocused and a small bag of pills lying on the coffee table.

"Katie, no," Aiden whispered, rushing to her side. He gently shook her, his heart pounding with fear. "Katie, wake up. Please, wake up."

Katie's eyes fluttered open, and she looked at him with a mix of shame and defeat. "I'm sorry," she mumbled, tears streaming down her face. "I couldn't fight it. I'm so sorry, Aiden."

Aiden's heart broke at the sight of her, but he knew this was a critical moment. "It's okay," he said softly, pulling her into his arms. "You're going to be okay. We'll get through this. But right now, we need to get you help."