Page 90 of Shadows of Recovery

As the meeting concluded, Nathan leaned over to her. "Let’s go see my father now."

Kay nodded, her mind still reeling from the grim proceedings. They approached Trace, who was being helped to his feet by one of his family members. "Dad, Dr. Kay needs to speak with you for a moment?" Nathan asked gently.

Trace nodded, his breathing labored. They guided him to a private room nearby, where Kay said, "Trace, your breathing is very concerning, and your color is off. I need to check your vitals and give you some immediate medical attention."

Trace looked at her with tired eyes. "I appreciate your concern, Doctor. I’ve been feeling worse these past few days."

Kay quickly set to work, opening her medical bag to listen to his chest and check his vitals. Nathan stood by.

She finished examining Trace, her concern deepening with every second. She turned to Nathan, her voice low and urgent. "Nathan, we don't have the equipment here to properly treat this. Your father needs to be in the hospital immediately. He has a fever, and I believe his kidneys and liver are failing."

Nathan’s face tightened with worry. "Are you sure, Kay?"

She nodded firmly. "Yes, his symptoms are consistent with organ failure. We can’t afford to wait."

Nathan took a deep breath, then turned to Trace. "Father, we need to get you to the hospital."

Trace shook his head weakly. "No hospitals. I won't allow it, not after what Damon did."

Kay stepped forward, her voice filled with determination. "Trace, this is a matter of life and death. Your condition is serious. We need to get you the medical attention you require. Without it, you will die."

“Dad, you have to understand the severity of this,” Nathan begged.

Trace looked between them, his eyes clouded with pain and reluctance. "Alright, in the truck—no ambulance."

Kay and Nathan hurriedly helped Trace to his feet and out of the room. Nathan addressed the remaining family members lingering in the hallway with authority. "Father needs immediate medical attention. I’m taking him to the hospital."

Kay and Nathan, along with a few of Trace’s family members, quickly escorted him to the nearest vehicle. As she tried to get in the truck, Damon grabbed her around her waist. “Not you.”

Thirty-Five

Two weeks into her cognitive behavioral therapy, Sophie had made significant strides. Today marked the beginning of her exposure therapy, a crucial step in her recovery process. Sweat dripped down her back as she prepared for the session led by Dr. Chris Skylar. Tristan and James were there to support her.

The therapy room was designed to be a safe and welcoming space. Comfortable chairs were arranged in a circle, and a table in the corner held a selection of soothing items: a stress ball, a soft blanket, and a few scented candles.

She sat in one of the chairs, her hands trembling slightly. Tristan reached over and gently squeezed her hand, offering her a small, encouraging smile. James stood nearby, his posture relaxed but alert, ready to assist if needed. Chris sat across from Sophie, his demeanor calm and professional.

"Good morning, Sophie," Chris began, his voice soothing. "Today, we're going to start exposure therapy. Remember, the goal is to face the memories and feelings associated with your trauma in a safe and controlled environment. You're in control here, and we won't push you beyond your limits."

Sophie nodded, her jaw set with determination. "I'm ready," she said, though her voice wavered slightly.

Chris nodded approvingly. "We'll start with a brief relaxation exercise to help you feel grounded. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Focus on the sensation of the air filling your lungs and then slowly exhale."

Sophie closed her eyes, following Chris's instructions. She felt Tristan's hand in hers, a grounding touch that helped her focus. The room fell into a gentle silence, broken only by the sound of their synchronized breathing.

After a few moments, Chris spoke again, "Good, Sophie. Now, let's begin by discussing a neutral part of your experience. Can you tell me about the hospital environment before anything traumatic happened?"

Sophie opened her eyes, her gaze distant as she recalled the details. "The walls were white, decorated with Valentine decorations, and there was a constant buzz from the machines. The nurses and doctors were laughing. We were eating cupcakes and drinking coffee at the beginning of the shift. And Tristan’s flowers.”

Chris nodded. "That's a good start. Let's focus on a specific moment. Can you describe the sounds you heard when you were in the corridor?"

Sophie hesitated but then continued, "There was beeping from a heart monitor, the occasional hiss from the oxygen tank, and footsteps in the hallway. There was also chatter from patients and their families."

"Excellent," Chris said, his tone encouraging. "Now, let's move a bit closer to the difficult memories. Remember, you're in control. If it becomes too much, we'll pause and return to the relaxation exercises."

Sophie took a deep breath, bracing herself. "Okay."

Chris leaned forward slightly, his expression gentle but focused. "Can you tell us about the first moment you felt fear or discomfort in the hospital?"

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