38
“Don’t forget to bring your husband in with you next time,” I said, to the meek woman as I ushered her out of my office. “He needs to know how this is affecting you. You bring him here and I’ll help you with it.”
She winced, manufactured a half-smile, the thought of any confrontation painful for her.
When she exited I noticed that my next patient was in the waiting room.
“You can go in, Paula.”
I started to follow her into my office when Bobby stopped me. “Wait! Postman had me sign for this when you were in session.” He handed me a letter which I opened on the way to my office. Jolted as if I’d been clubbed with a 2x4, I braced myself against the wall. Taking several deep breaths I tried to compose myself as I entered my office and closed the door.
Paula sat stiffly, smiled at me.
