The therapist's office is in a brownstone near Fenway Park, deliberately chosen for being neutral ground—not near Marcus's office or my apartment.
Dr. Patricia Reeves comes highly recommended by Dr. Torres. She specializes in power-imbalance relationships and trauma recovery. Which basically describes us perfectly.
"Nervous?" Marcus asks as we climb the stairs.
"Terrified. You?"
"Same."
We're fifteen minutes early. The waiting room has comfortable chairs, calming artwork, and a white noise machine to ensure privacy.
Marcus sits stiffly, hands clasped. I've never seen him this uncomfortable.
"You okay?" I ask.
"I don't like not knowing what to expect. Or not being able to control the narrative."
"That's the whole point."
"I know. Doesn't make it less unsettling."
At exactly three
