Dr. Sarah Chen’s office was nothing like what Kassie had expected. Instead of the sterile, clinical environment she’d imagined, the space was warm and inviting—soft lighting, comfortable chairs, and walls lined with books that looked actually read rather than decorative. A small water fountain in the corner provided gentle background noise, and the overall effect was more like visiting a wise friend than undergoing medical treatment.
“Thank you for coming in today,” Dr. Chen said as Kassie settled into the chair across from her. “I know taking this first step can be difficult.”
Dr. Chen was younger than Kassie had expected, probably in her early forties, with kind eyes behind wire-rimmed glasses and a presence that immediately put Kassie at ease. She held a notepad but didn’t seem focuse
