This therapist’s room is much different from Dr. Raynors. The light are dimmed, not in a dingy way but soothing. The Furniture is soft and colorful. Dr. Garner sits across from me. He’s a middle aged black man. Nearly the opposite of what dr. Raynor was.

“I did read through Dr. Raynors notes, but if you wouldn’t minds would you like to tell me what you two talked about? What she did that helped or didn’t? Or we can’t just start new.” His face is open and gentle. I pull at my sleeve.

“Could we start new?” I hold my breath.

“Of course, it’s easier sometimes that way. Today I want to know about Finley. Not the shit that happened to Finley, unless you want to, but what do you enjoy? Favorite memories, or stories. Today is what you want to talk about. If you want to tell me about your favorite movie go for it.” It feels like a trick but I’m gonna go with it as long as I can.

“Uhm okay. I have a cat named Teo. I’ve had him for a little bit now. He’s a little black cat. He likes scratches behind his ears and gets upset when someone’s not home. Not in I’ll rip up the carpets but I won’t eat and will look like a kicked puppy, but you know a cat.” He smiles and puts his clipboard down on the table and leans forewords. He motions for me to continue. “I didn’t have friends for a while. I think sometimes, especially before I realized I was non binary, it’s because I couldn’t fit into to boys and girls. It was kinda lonely. But I when I realized I was non binary before sixth grade, my parents where really supportive. I was so lucky. Then that year I meet Cory. It’s been me and her sense. Through everything she’s always been there for me. I feel like sometimes I don’t deserve such a good friend. We made two other friends in our sophomore year. And their both really cool, one moved away, which is my fault. And one I’ve been to scared to see sense, well everything. I’m gonna try though.” I stop to catch my breath. I don’t know why but I just feel safe. And I haven’t unloaded so much to someone in a while. It feels, good.

I talk for the rest of the hour. Talking about songs, movies, books, food. Anything and everything. I use to be able to do this with Cory, but the waters have been tight the last few times we’ve been together. And I didn’t even notice. I feel light and heavy at the same time when time is up.