Masked Feelings

Emma Taylor's life was a perfectionist's story. Her husband then, Michael, was a successful lawyer; she was a prominent psychologist with a busy practice. His beautiful home in the center of the city was the result of his efforts.

Emma's heart swelled with pride and accomplishment as she walked into her sleek, modern kitchen. It was sunny, the coffee was percolating, and bird song filled the air outside. It was going to be a great day.

Emma went to the kitchen and made herself a cup of coffee, and she sipped carefully, as she marveled at its flavor. Keeping an eye on the clock on the wall, she knew she had time to read a few notes for a new patient she was going to see next.

Emma sat down at the kitchen table, but her thoughts drifted to her patient Ryan. A call had come from his primary care doctor asking for help treating Ryan's anxiety and depression. Emma was curious about the challenge, and had accepted the case.

Just as Emma opened up her notes, Michael strode across the kitchen door, dapper and confident in his tailored suit.

"Morning, gorgeous," he said, giving Emma a peck on the cheek. "How's your day looking?"

Emma smiled and leaned into his kiss. "It's looking great, thanks. Today I have a new patient coming in and I'm excited about working with him.

Michael nodded, looking around the kitchen. "That's terrific. No doubt you'll do a great job. P.S. where's my phone? I could've swore that I left it right here on the counter."

Emma shook her head. "I didn't see it, but you might want to review your study." You were working late last night and you probably left it in there."

Michael nodded and left the kitchen, leaving Emma to her notes. And as she studied Ryan's file, she got that feeling again, that something wasn't right; And though she could not put her finger on what it was, she felt there was something about Ryan's case that would be more complex than what she originally thought.

Emma's concentration was broken by the ringing of the doorbell. She looked at the clock and remembered it was her time with Ryan. She inhaled, stood up, and straightened her dress. It was time to switch into professional mode and help Ryan work through his struggles.

By the time Emma reached the front door, she was both excited and fearful. She didn know what the next hour would bring, but shed meet anything thrown her way.

When Emma opened the door, her eyes fell to Ryan's chiseled features, bright blue eyes. He was more handsome than she had ever imagined, and for a moment she felt a flapping in her chest.

"Hi, Ryan," Emma said, reaching for his hand. "Thank you for joining our session today."

Ryan shook her hand, smiling, a firm but not crushing grip. "Thanks, Dr. Taylor. I appreciate you seeing me."