Page 77 of Rather: The Therapist

Tonight.

I swallowed the saliva that pooled in my mouth, nearly ending my life. I began a coughing spell that made my face burn and my throat tight. I patted my chest with my hand. My palm slapped my skin each time it collided with my chest.

“Shit.”

My ears began ringing. My face grew warmer. I struggled to breathe. And, for what felt like forever, I tried correcting the mistake I’d made. A full minute later when my recovery began, I read the letter again, still wondering where they were selling the audacity Priest had purchased. I’d only dealt with two entitled men my entire lifetime. One had birthed me with his bare hands. The other thought he’d birthed me.

Bumping into Kofi and his oldest brother was appalling. They both possessed that character flaw. Because it had been instilled in me from a child, I was hardly upset. But, revolted, nonetheless.

Rose,

PS102.

9pm.

Tonight.

His demands were simple, yet so complex. In hindsight, I had two months and two weeks before my commitment was established. My body belonged to no one until then. But, somehow, I felt like it might not be the case. Not to him, at least.

Rose,

PS102.

9pm.

Tonight.

“Ugh.”

Nine? Why nine? I questioned.

“It doesn’t matter. I’m not going. So, no. It doesn’t matter,” I finalized, shoving the box and note to the side and heading back into the kitchen.

As quickly as I’d gone in, I bolted out. Once more, I had to read the contents of the note.

Rose,

PS102.

9pm.

Tonight.

“I ca– I can’t. Ugh.”

I exited again, this time with the note still in my hand.

“Roulette, please pick up,” I begged of my sister before I’d even dialed her number.

I needed her in the worst way. The time difference would toss a wrench in, but it didn’t hurt to try. Maybe when she heard what was happening in my world she’d wake right on up and give me the best sisterly advice she could muster. Because, putting it very lightly, I was in over my head.

By the third ring, I’d lost hope. However, the grogginess in her voice a second later brought me comfort beyond explanation.

“Is everything okay, Rather?” She groaned.

“Yes and no!”

“Are you safe? Are you hurt?”

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