Good Morning

“You really should consider ...”

“What?”

But he already knew his wife’s next word.

“Therapy.”

“I was afraid you were going to say that.”

He watched her lips spread out into a strong smile. Her high cheekbones pushed back against the morning light from the bedroom’s lone window. She looked beautiful and decisive, and it scared him to the core.

“That’s why you need therapy. To face your fears.”

“That’s the last thing I want to do.”

“Who does? But it’s the only way to get better.”

“I’m not that bad, am I?”

She closed her eyes. Her breathing was deep and slow. He knew from the years they had been together that she was not just gathering her thoughts, but also reaffirming her resolve. When she looked back at him, he knew there was no turning back.

“We can go together, if you like. But only to start. This is a journey for you.”

“And if I don’t take this trip?”

“What do you think?”

He was always wary when she asked him a question in answer to his. It meant she was losing patience and getting angry.

“I think you will be disappointed.”

“It’s not about me.”

“It feels that way.”

She repeated her eyes closed and breathing routine.

“Okay,” she said finally, blinking hard at him. “I don’t want you to go to therapy.”

He bit at his lower lip before answering, “I’m too old to be baited by reverse psychology.”

“I mean it. I don’t want you to go to therapy.”

“You’re lying.”

“I’m not. I changed my mind. I’m allowed to do that, you know.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“I don’t care. That’s my decision. And I don’t want to talk about it anymore.”

She left the bed, put on a housecoat, and walked out of the room and down the stairs. He heard her movements below: making coffee, opening blinds, turning on the television.

He sat up after a few moments, listening and thinking. Finally, he found his phone on the end table and did a quick search. He dialed a number and waited.

“Good morning, how can we help you today?” a friendly voice answered.

He closed his eyes, took in some deep breaths.

“Yes, hello,” the voice continued.

“Hi, sorry,” he said, opening his eyes. “I wanted to inquire about therapy.”