Patient B-2

Chapter Seventy-Two: Avalyn

One Month Later

"We've been sitting here for nearly half an hour," Mrs. Beth says, her tone impatient yet still kind.

Her words take me back to a few months ago when I was sitting with her son. Back then, I had a snarky remark ready. But I respect his mother a lot more than I respect Dr. King.

"I don't have much to say," I speak honestly, feeling shy.

"Do you want to talk about Jeannette?" she offers, her pen tapping against the paper.

I shake my head. "No, no, not today," I say with a smile, looking down at my feet. "Today is a good day."

"Is it?" she questions. "Why is that?"

"It's Wrath's birthday," I tell her, fidgeting with my fingers.

She nods thoughtfully. "He mentioned his birthday was soon, but I didn't realize it was on Halloween- how fitting," she remarks with a smile. "Please give him my warmest birthday wishes."

I nod eagerly, keeping my eyes to the side. "I will."

She lets out a small sigh, not out of anger but exhaustion. She works tirelessly, and my presence must be adding to her already overwhelming schedule, especially with Wrath as another client who has been keeping her busy with his frequent visits.

Sure, we probably shouldn't be seeing the same therapist, but what can I say? The woman is incredibly helpful, and neither of us are willing to give up the valuable advice she provides.

"Avalyn," she says gently, "if you don't have anything to talk about, why are you here? You've been doing really well. I don't believe you need to come as often as you have been." She sounds genuinely confused.

"I know," I admit sheepishly.

I've been doing well. My heart still aches for Jeannette, and Wrath has been struggling, but we've been managing. Every day isn't perfect, but my life is beautifully imperfect. I have my guys, my best friend, my home, and my own little slice of paradise.

"Can we talk about them?" I ask. "My guys?"

"Are you having problems?" she asks, tilting her head.

I quickly shake my head. "No, I just like talking about them."

It's funny how things change. My last session with Dr. King had me avoiding any mention of Cierien or Wrath, but now I find myself eager to talk about the happiness they bring me. My cheeks flush crimson, and I quickly look away in embarrassment. Thankfully, my phone beeps loudly with a new text message, providing a welcome distraction.

Cierien: Emergency! Meet in the clearing behind our house.

Cierien: Hurry, baby, hurry!

Cierien: Love you :)

Cierien: So much.

Cierien: Like so so much.

My body tenses at the mention of the clearing where Jeannette is laid to rest. I quickly jump up, though I know it's probably nothing serious. He likely needs help setting up for Wrath's birthday and is eager to get started. Still, I can't help but wonder why it would involve the clearing.

Mrs. Beth springs from her seat, her eyes wide as I head toward the door. "And where do you think you're going?" she asks, concern in her voice.

"Home," I reply with a big grin, giving her a small wave as I step outside.