One Last Time

IMANI

Walking into the building of my place of work felt surreal; reason being that, I never saw this day coming. If me of 9 years ago could see the me now, she would be elated. I was walking into the building as a licensed therapist; a profession I never imagined myself taking an interest in after my bachelor's degree. Originally, I studied psychology in school and I found it so interesting. However, I didn't think I was going to continue it. I thought I was going to pick another course to do for masters but there I was, a therapist, which I didn't regret of course.

I had already done numerous breathing exercises in my car to mellow my beating heart. As much as I was elated about all these, deep down, I was in panic mode because it was my first day at work. I was thinking of how things would play out and how my patients would be. I had just gotten the job a few days ago and was told to start today. Mentally, I didn't prepare fully for it but I was silently praying that it would go well. I mean, that day was my first day at work; my first day of being a therapist, ergo, my first day of talking to patients, I wanted everything to go well. I got to my door and smiled. A wave of pride rushed down my spine as I read my name that was written on a name plate placed on the door. Suddenly, I wasn't feeling all panicky again.

Whew.

"Looks good doesn't it?" I heard a voice behind me. I turned immediately and the first thing I saw was a someone's chest with muscles. God he was so tall. I looked up and met an unfamiliar but handsome face smiling at me.

"Rhett." He started, extending his hand and I shook it, "Imani."

"You are the new one right? Welcome to The Wellness Center." He said with a toothed smile. I stifled a laugh. As much as I've heard a lot of good things about here, why did they use that name? Why The Wellness Center of all things? That was what I didn't understand.

"The name makes me laugh too, don't worry." I heard another voice say. I turned towards the direction of the voice and saw one of the most beautiful girls I've ever met. She looked so pretty, I was staring. She walked towards me and hugged me tightly, as though, she knew me.

"Hi, I'm Layla." She said with one of the most beautiful smiles ever. "It is nice to meet you."

"Thank you, I'm Imani." I said calmly with a smile.

"Oh I know, I was informed this morning. I'm so glad to have another female." She said.

"Glad I came." I said and she giggled .

"I don't know why Ryan picked the name though," She said. "He should have done better, don't you think?"

Ryan was the owner of the building and also a psychologist. He was the one that interviewed me. Genuinely speaking, Ryan was a cool person. He was the one who knew how to balance being firm and playful. I didn't know he was the boss and owner until after the interview. I found it so admirable.

"That is because as the name implies, it is a center for you to get well." Rhett replied then turned to me, "What do you think?"

I shrugged, "I don't know and I'm not going to say nothing. In case I say something to jeopardize my job."

Layla laughed, "Don't worry, I've complained to Ryan before and I'm still here." She whispered but he was able to hear her.

"I think the name is perfect though." He said.

She rolled her eyes at him, "Yeah, yeah, of course you do. It is a center for you to get well." She mimicked and I stifled a laugh. "Do you have to be such a geek?" She asked.

He shrugged, "I didn't come this far to not show how smart I am." She rolled her eyes again and turned to me, "So, newbie, we are going out tonight and I'm not taking no for an answer."

I furrowed my brows because I was confused. She noticed. "I took it upon myself to celebrate newbies. We haven't had a newbie for 3 to 4 years now so, I'm glad to do one tonight."

They were both looking at me intensely, waiting for my answer. I gave it a quick thought, I didn't have much friends. However, I did have a best friend and roommate called Addison. We were planning on doing something tonight in our apartment but I made a mental note to text her to reschedule. Nothing was as important as that moment.

"I'm definitely in." I said enthusiastically.

Layla smiled proudly, "Of course you are, we'll leave together after work. Cool?" I nodded before she flashed me her perfect teeth and walked away.

"Welcome once again, Imani. I hope you'll stay with us for a long time." Rhett said. I almost forgot that he was standing there.

"I hope so too, thanks." I said. Another person walked in, this face was familiar. It was the boss, Ryan.

"I see you've met two of your colleagues." He started as we shook hands. "I met Layla on my way here. Anyways, welcome to The Wellness Center, yes, Layla has been begging for w name change but that's not going to happen."

I giggled.

"I know this is new for you but I believe you are going to do just fine. You are extremely bright, like I said during the interview, you are extremely intelligent. All in all, I'm glad to have employed you." He added and my heart melted. Yes, I was always the smartest in my class, too smart for my liking even. However, I loved it, the academic validation felt so good.

"Thank you Mr. Ryan, I'll never let you down." I resonated the tone of my voice to hide my shyness.

He scoffed, "Call me Ryan, they all do." He checked his watch, "We have our daily meeting in the meeting room at 9:30am. It is currently 8:45 so I'll see you soon. Nice to have you here Imani. Come on Rhett." He said and I watched as they walked out of sight. I inhaled deeply, turned to my door, and looked at my name again. I started giggling quietly as I picked my phone and took a picture of it. I then opened my door and walked in, closing the door behind me.

"Wow." I muttered as I stared. The office was moderately big and comfortable. It had a kitchenette at the opposite end, a television, a mini sofa close to my desk, and a bathroom. I definitely could sleep there. I ran my fingertips on my desk as I walked behind and sat on the chair. This still felt like a dream to me; I never knew a day like this would come. I noticed an office paper on the desk and picked it up - I had 5 appointments that day.

This is about to get real. I thought to myself as I walked to my chair, sitting down. I placed my hands on my desk and looked round the room one more time.

I'm going to do just fine, I'm going to help my patients the best way I can. I thought to myself as I bent my head and muttered a little prayer.

***

"Right this way, Miss." The receptionist instructed as we walked into the meeting room. She was such a sweet soul. When I walked up to her and asked for the meeting room, the first thing she did was hug me. I was extremely confused but hugged her back. Her name was Rebecca, Becky for short.

"It is so good to have you here Miss. Imani. By the way, your name is as pretty as you." She said with the sweetest smile. I found it cute though.

The room was empty, I was 11 minutes early which I was glad about because I had the time to admire the room. It was beautiful. It was this cozy space with comfortable chairs arranged in a circle. The walls were painted a calming shade of blue, and there were several large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The room was also decorated with a few pieces of art and some potter plants that added a touch of warmth. In the center of the room was a large wooden table with a pot of coffee and numerous trays of snacks. My stomach growled; I didn't eat anything before leaving for work. I checked my surroundings with hopes that no one was around before I lunged for a pack of cookies.

"First day of work, right?" I heard a male voice behind me while I was on my last cookie and trust me, I was chewing fast and loud. I gently dusted the crumbs out of my lips, turned around, and met another handsome fellow.

What?

"What gave me off?" I asked licking my fingers shamelessly to hide how embarrassed I was.

"I was behind you, you were chewing loud and fast too, like you didn't want anyone to see you." He said with a smirk.

"I hate that we are psychologists sometimes." I said rolling my eyes. I picked a serviette and cleaned my fingers.

He laughed, "Why?"

"I said that because we easily read people, sometimes unconsciously." I replied.

He nodded in agreement, "True but don't you think that's a cool thing?"

"Cool things also have disadvantages, don't they?" I asked with a laugh.

He looked at me like he admired what I said, "Morgan." He started. " I would have shook your hands but for obvious reasons, I wouldn't."

I gasped dramatically, "You are indirectly saying my mouth is dirty."

"I never said that. No, no, don't put words in my mouth." He said with a laugh. I laughed as well. So far, my colleagues are friendly.

Yay.

"I'm Imani but I guess you already know that." I said.

"Ryan told us about you, and how this is your first time being a therapist. And yes, I read your CV too. You are extremely smart." He confessed rubbing the back of his neck shyly.

I shrugged, "I guess so." I said proudly. He scoffed which I returned with a laugh. There was a quick pause before he spoke, "Listen, you are going to be fine. Ryan doesn't just pick anyone, he goes for the best and nothing but the best. He saw something in you, so believe in yourself." He advised.

"Wow, I'm impressed." I said and he smiled. "Thank you for the advice though, it means a lot." I added.

"It is fine, if you need help, we are all here." He mentioned with a smile. Wow, he was extremely handsome. After he said that, we heard noises coming from outside which meant the rest of the people were coming. I cleaned my fingers well, arranged my hair, and comported myself while Morgan was watching and laughing. I didn't really care anyway. Layla looked into the room, as soon as we got eye contact, she shouted, "She is in here guys!!!!!!" before walking in. She turned to Morgan, "Oh, h mei Morgan," She said sweetly then turned to me, "We wanted to walk you here as a group. As usual, Morgan doesn't do such things."

"That wasn't what I said." He groaned.

"Whatever," She said, still looking at me; I had to stifle my laugh. The rest of the people walked in. I only saw Ryan and Rhett; maybe the rest were still on their way.

"I see we have all met Imani." Ryan said as he sat on one of the chairs. We all followed suit. As soon as we were all seated, he continued, "Welcome to The Wellness Center once again Imani, we are pleased to have you here. Here, we are family, we discuss anything and everything so don't ever feel alone." He paused and looked at all of us, "This center is new, I'll keep employing but I always go for nothing but the best. You guys are the best, don't forget that."

"How about you guys say a bit about yourselves to her?" He suggested.

"I agree," Layla started as she tilted her head towards me. "I'm Layla, and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I've been interested in the mental health field for as long as I can remember. My approach to therapy is strength-based and trauma-based which means that I focus on helping my clients build on their existing skills and resources while also being mindful of any past experiences that may be impacting their current functioning. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing. My goal as a therapist is to support my clients on their journey towards greater self -awareness, resilience, and well-being." She concluded. I didn't know if I was listening to all she was saying or if I was staring at her face throughout. She was extremely beautiful. All in all, I was fascinated by what she said so I nodded my head in acknowledgement.

"I am Rhett." I turned to him before he continued, "I am a licensed family and marriage therapist. I've been working in the mental health field for 5 years and I can proudly say that I've had the privilege of helping individuals, couples, and families navigate some of life's most challenging transitions. My approach to therapy is collaborative and solution-focused, which means that I woke closely with my clients to identify their strengths and resources, and to develop practical strategies for achieving their goals. Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, parenting challenges, or personal growth, I'm here to support you every step of the way." He said. I was sincerely impressed. I was supposed to be a licensed family therapist but clinical psychology had other plans. I turned to Morgan who returned the smile I was wearing. He adjusted on his seat the placed his previously folded hands on his laps. "I am Morgan, I do exactly what Layla does but I also have a background in psychology. Which means I'm a psychologist too but I'm only focusing on what Layla does." He said diligently. I nodded my head, digesting every word he said.

"I'm Ryan, I do exactly what you do Imani, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. I've been working in the field for over 15 years. I was working with a group of therapists before I decided to build a center of my own. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma and PTSD. My approach to therapy is integrative and holistic, which means that I draw on a variety of evidence -based treatments to help my clients heal and grow." He paused. "You know we believe that the mind and body are interconnected, and I work with my clients to develop a deeper understanding of how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors impact their physical and emotional well-being. Ergo, our ultimate goal is to help out clients find a sense of peace and wholeness, even in the midst of life's most difficult challenges."

I nodded my head throughout, I really was sitting in the midst of smart people. Yes, I was smart too but I found this intimidating.

"Thank you all for welcoming me. Initially, I was extremely anxious earlier but now, I'm okay. Thank you so much for being this nice to me." I said, meaning every word. I had heard negative comments about having colleagues, the things I heard sent shivers down my spine. It is thrilling to discover that truly, everyone isn't the same.

"That's fine dear, in here, we are nothing but family. Never forget that." Ryan advised. "Now that we've met Imani, let's discuss." He added. I heard shuffling of seats while I paying attention. "There is something I would like to discuss with you guys, it is about Patient B."

"You still think Patient B is being resistant right?" Layla asked.

"Precisely, I feel Patient B doesn't want the therapy to work purposefully. Do you understand? have been working with Patient B for a year now, I know what I'm talking about. My doesn't want to talk about what is going on, all we do in an hour is sit and look at each other in silence. It can be infuriating." He said in frustration. I was watching the conversation ensue.

"And what does your patient have?" Rhett asked.

"My patient doesn't speak, all I was told was depression but I am very sure that there is more to that. Hence my reason for saying he is being resistant. There is absolutely no progress whatsoever." He replied.

"If nothing is working and your patient isn't talking, why not refer them to another therapist?" Morgan asked and Rhett nodded.

"I could work on your patient." All eyes turned to me. I shrugged, "I mean, you've been complaining about it, I could help."

"She has a point though." Morgan said and we turned to his direction before he continued, "Perhaps, putting this case in someone else's hands is a good idea."

"What do you think Ryan?" Rhett inquired, leaning forward. We turned our eyes to him, awaiting his reply patiently. He pressed his lips together, giving it a thought.

"Nah, it's fine. I'll see what I can do." He said, getting up. I understood that the meeting had ended when Rhett got up too. "Have a nice day at work guys, especially you, Imani" He added before walking away. Layla, who sat beside me through, grabbed my left arm and squeezed it gently, " You are going do just fine my love." She said with an assuring smile. I smiled back, I really wanted everything to go well. I really, really did.

"She'll do just fine, I'm sure of it." Morgan said, getting up too. He looked at me, "You'll do just fine." He said with a smile.

"Thank you guys so much. I needed that." I sighed. "I sincerely wonder how everything is going to be."

"It is going to be fine. I remember my first day, for some odd reason, I had a severe throat ache. I wasn't even able to attend to anyone. I was told to go home." Morgan said looking at me, my mouth was wide open. I didn't even know when I burst out laughing. "I am so sorry, I couldn't control it." I pleaded while catching my breath. Laughing really helped with the fear I felt within.

Layla laughed so hard after I did, "I was employed few months after him so I didn't witness it but Rhett saw everything; he said Morgan looked like he had the mumps." I laughed again. Mumps? I looked at his face again, imagining him with the mumps. That would have been a hilarious sight to behold.

"That's not true." Morgan said in a hard tone.

"It is, trust me, it is." She held my hand, assuring me. I stifled my laugh this time around, still looking at Morgan. "You are having fun, right?" He asked with a smirk. I shrugged, breaking eye contact immediately. Sooner than later, I would have the time to stare at this beautiful creation from God. Layla checked her wristwatch and got up abruptly, "I have to get going guys, I have an appointment now. Bye!" She scurried out of the room leaving just me and Morgan.

"I didn't have the mumps, it was just a severe throat pain." He said. I turned to him and nodded my head with a mischievous smile. "You don't believe me right?" He asked.

"I mean, I don't know what to say. Neither do I know who to believe." I replied, getting up. We started walking out of the room, "You should believe me." He convinced. "Layla is lying." I let out a short laugh, "If you say so." I said with a shrug. He stopped walking, I stopped too. He put his hands behind his back and turned to me, "You are having fun, aren't you?" He asked, smirking. I hid my smile and continued walking, "Sincerely speaking, yes. It is helping with the jitters." I confessed.

"Hmm." He said and started walking at my pace. "Look, you'll be fine. Never forget that therapy is a collaborative process, and your role is to guide then towards their own solutions, not yours, okay?" He advised.

"Wow." I said because hearing those words come out of his mouth were so cool. It was indeed, a smart thing to say.

"Why?" He asked, giving off a confused look.

"You made total sense, you really did." I replied.

"You are welcome I guess." He mentioned.

"Thank you." I said with a laugh, I didn't even know that we had gotten to my door. He wished me well, shook my hand and left. I heaved a heavy sigh before opening my door and meeting my office. I gently closed my door and leaned my back on the door, closing my eyes. I think I stood there for close to five minutes but I didn't care; leaning there gave me some awkward kind of peace. The next thing I heard was the telephone situated on my desk ring. I quickly rushed for it.

"Miss Imani here." I croaked. In my defense, I really wanted to sound sweet but my voice didn't want to work with me.

"Good morning Miss, this is the receptionist here, there is someone waiting for you here." She started. She sounded irritated.

"Is that a patient?" I asked.

"I have no idea, he doesn't want to give me any information, he wants to talk to just you. I think he knows you ma'am." I leaned on the desk, thinking of the males I had in my life. Come to think of it, I didn't have much friends. Most of the few friends I had were living in other states, it was just me and Addison in that state so this was rather befuddling. Besides, if the guys were coming to see me, they would have informed me first. However I wasn't going to leave him outside, I was curious to find out who that was. I bit my lower lip before replying her, "I am on my way." I said before hanging up. I got up, adjusted my gown, breathed in and out, and mustered a "genuine" smile before walking out.

As soon as I walked to the reception, I froze. My smile disappeared. My heart started beating fast in my chest, I thought it was going to come out. I felt my eyes grow weak as I looked at the person before me. The one person that didn't even come to mind. The one person I thought I was never going to see after university. Tell me why Blake was at my workplace.

"What are you doing here?" I gritted my teeth. I could feel my blood boil. I was angry, no, I was livid.

"Hello, Imani." He said softly, staring into my eyes with those gorgeous eyes of his.

Classic Blake, not listening to what I have to say. I thought to myself.