Silent Jack

Veiled Secrets

Dr. Rose sat in her office, replaying the events of the previous morning in her mind. Jack's reaction to Mia's name had been more intense than she had anticipated. His panic attack was a stark reminder of the depth of his trauma, and she knew that pushing him too far, too fast, could have devastating consequences. She needed to proceed with caution.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the ring of her phone. Sheriff Sarah's name flashed on the screen. Dr. Rose sighed, knowing this conversation was inevitable.

"Dr. Rose," Sarah's voice was steady but edged with urgency. "I want to discuss Jack's reaction this morning. I need to know—was this a positive breakthrough or just another setback?"

Dr. Rose leaned back in her chair, choosing her words carefully. "Sheriff, it's a bit of both. Jack did speak, but the mere mention of Mia's name triggered a severe panic attack. It's clear that her death is a significant trauma point for him, but the fact that he spoke at all—well, that's something positive."

Sarah paused; the line was silent for a moment before she responded, "We need to probe this further, Rose. I understand the risk, but we're running out of time. If there's any chance that uncovering the truth about Mia could help us understand what happened to him, we have to take it."

Dr. Rose felt the weight of Sarah's words. She knew the sheriff was right—this wasn't just about Jack's recovery; it was about uncovering a painful truth that could explain the years of silence. After a moment, she nodded, though Sarah couldn't see her.

"I agree. But we'll need to proceed with extreme caution. I'll start with small steps, making sure Jack is stable enough to handle it," Dr. Rose said clearly.

"I need results," Sheriff Sarah said and disconnected the call.

Dr. Rose exhaled deeply, then left her office for a new one. After Jack's panic attack, she thought the usual room, with its sterile walls and clinical atmosphere, might be contributing to Jack's anxiety. So, she had asked the dean for a different room, and he had agreed. However, he informed Rose that moving the camera to another room on such short notice might not be feasible. With time running out and Sheriff Sarah pressing Rose for results, Dr. Rose replied that she would inform Sheriff Sarah of the situation and take responsibility for any consequences.

Dr. Rose entered the new room and looked at the freshly painted walls and beautiful interior. She placed her bag on the table. A moment later, a guard knocked at the door and said, "Jack has arrived."

"Let him inside," Rose said.

As Jack entered, she greeted him with a calm, reassuring smile.

"Jack, today we're going to take things slow. I've moved us to a different room, somewhere that might feel a bit more comfortable. Before we start, I want you to focus on your breathing."

Jack looked around, taking in the new environment. It was different—warmer, less clinical. He hesitated but eventually nodded.

"Good," Dr. Rose continued, guiding him through a series of deep breathing exercises. "Inhale slowly through your nose... hold for a moment... and then exhale through your mouth. Focus on the sound of your breath. Let everything else fade away."

Jack's breathing began to slow, his body gradually relaxing. Dr. Rose watched him closely, ready to step in if he showed any signs of distress.

"Today, we're going to talk about something difficult," she said softly, once she felt he was ready.

"But remember, you're in control. If it becomes too much, we can stop at any time."

Jack's eyes met hers, a flicker of something—perhaps trust or determination—passing between them.