Beneath The Surface

Been Feeling Guilty

The air outside Liam's house is warm, but there's a cool breeze rustling through the trees as I head to my car. My fingers linger on the door handle for a moment before Liam's voice stops me.

"Sam, wait."

I turn, and he's standing on the porch, looking reluctant to let me go. Jamie stands a few feet away, arms crossed, his face twisted in mock disgust.

"Oh, come on," Jamie groans. "You've already said bye, like, five times. Just let her leave!"

Liam shoots him a look. "Don't you have something better to do?"

"Nope." Jamie leans against the doorframe, smirking.

I chuckle, walking back to Liam. "Ignore him. He's just bitter because he doesn't have anyone to say goodbye to."

"Touché," Jamie says, pretending to be wounded.

Liam steps closer, his hands finding my waist. "Drive safe, okay?"

"I will," I promise, leaning in for a quick kiss. But Liam, of course, deepens it, making it last just a little longer than necessary.

"Ugh! Seriously? I'm right here!" Jamie exclaims, covering his eyes dramatically. "You guys are so gross."

Liam grins against my lips before pulling away. "Get lost, Jamie."

"I live here!" Jamie shoots back, but he disappears into the house, muttering something about needing therapy after witnessing us.

I laugh softly, giving Liam one last peck on the cheek before climbing into my car. As I start the engine, he waves, and I can't help but smile as I pull away.

The drive to Dr. Martins' office is uneventful, but my mind buzzes with thoughts about Imani. By the time I park and make my way inside, I feel like I've already had a full-blown therapy session in my head.

Dr. Martins greets me with her usual warm smile as I settle into the comfy armchair. "Hey, Samara. How are you?"

I sink into the chair, kicking off my sneakers. "I mean, I haven't had any nightmares lately, so that's something, right?"

"That's great!" she says, genuinely pleased. "Any idea why?"

I shrug, fiddling with the hem of my shirt. "I don't know. Maybe I'm just too tired to dream?"

She laughs softly. "Or maybe your mind is finding some peace, even if it's just a little."

"Maybe," I admit.

She leans forward slightly, her pen poised. "So, what's been on your mind?"

I hesitate before sighing. "Imani's moved in with us."

Dr. Martins nods. "Your cousin, right? How's that going?"

I make a face. "She's fine. Nice, even. But... I don't know. It's weird. Like, what if she starts asking about Natalie or Dad? What if she tries to bond or something? I don't think I can handle that."

"Why not?" she asks gently.

"Because it feels like an invasion," I blurt out. "My life is already a mess. I don't need someone else coming in and acting like they can fix it."

Dr. Martins nods thoughtfully. "That makes sense. You're protective of your space, and letting someone in feels risky. But do you think she's trying to 'fix' you, or could she just want to be part of your life?"

I stare at the ceiling. "I don't know. Maybe. But what if she says something about Dad? Or Natalie? Or-" I stop myself before mentioning the bandages under my sleeves.