“More like…” he trailed off, collecting his thoughts again. “I didn’t want to burden you with the stories. Every session isn’t just about uplifting. There are often deep scars, painful pasts, and broken dreams. I thought it was better for you not to know.”
My vulnerability kicked in; I lowered my arms, softening just a bit. “You could have shared it, Adrian. We’re partners; that’s what we do.”
He nodded, his expression shifting to one of deep understanding. “I realize that now. I see that it wasn’t a fair choice to make. You deserve transparency, not secrets. You deserve to feel included in every aspect of my life, especially something as pivotal as my career.”
The words hung in the air, resonating as I contemplated everything that had just been revealed. A pool of emotions churned wildly within me—confusion, empathy, anger, and even a hint of pride for the work he was doing behind my back. “So, what’s next?” I finally asked, trying to get a handle on the moment.
His face broke into a tentative smile, as if he had sensed a crack opening up between the walls. “What if you joined me for a session? It could offer you insight and help you understand my world better. I’ve never brought family into my work, but maybe it’s time we blur the lines.”
The suggestion took me by surprise. “You think that I can just sit there and observe—? What if it’s too much?”
“I can introduce you to the process without going into specifics. You’ll see the change in them, feel their hopes, and understand what inspires me each day. This isn’t just another job for me; it’s my passion. And I believe when you understand that, our marriage can grow even stronger.”
I weighed the offer carefully. It was tempting but overwhelming. However, as I thought about it, the potential to witness the very essence of his work tugged at my curiosity. “Okay,” I said slowly. “I think I’d like that. But I need to be honest with you—I’m scared to see that side of you.”
“Then let’s start by taking baby steps. I’ll guide you through it.” He reached for my hand, palm open, vulnerable, and inviting. “Let’s walk this path together.”
Despite my uncertainties, I slid my fingers into his, a small surge of strength running through me. “Alright. Let’s do this.”
---
The following week, I walked into his workplace again, but this time, Adrian accompanied me, his presence a grounding force amidst my fluttering anxiety. We rented a bright and airy room for his sessions, adorned with art that spoke of healing and resilience. I was filled with trepidation, wondering what I was about to witness.
“There’s a wonderful woman named Lisa who I’ve been working with for several months,” Adrian explained as we sat together, watching the minutes tick away. “Her story is one repurposed from trauma.”
My heart raced at the thoughts of sharing an intimate space with someone so vulnerable. I glanced around at the small comforts of the room: the soft cushions, the warm lighting, a small water fountain bubbling gently in the corner. It felt both inviting and heavy with emotions waiting to explode.
Then, a soft knock at the door pulled me from my thoughts. Lisa walked in, a woman in her late thirties with boundless energy wrapped in visible insecurity. Her smile seemed strained, as if fighting through layers of anxiety. Adrian greeted her warmly, setting the tone for their session.
