“It’s easy to do. We all find ourselves lost in that loop at times. Acknowledge the things you can learn from, accept the things you can’t change, and work to do better next time. That’s all we can promise ourselves. To do better. Be better. You’re already working on that by coming to therapy. You’re not letting your past hold you back, and that’s a courageous thing to do.”
“I’m glad you’re back. I missed this.”
“Me too, Jill.” I smiled at her, her words meaning everything. I hadn’t realized how lost I was until I stepped back into this role, finding my own sense of purpose. Now, I could do it on my terms and help the family.
“Well, I think the best way to end a heavy session like this is to dance it out. What song do you want today?”
She laughed, jumping up. “I know the perfect one.” As she played the song on her phone, I stood up with her, dancing it out. It might not seem professional to let myself dance without abandon in my office with my client, but I’d found there was nothing more powerful at times than just letting go with the movement and a song.
When the music ended, we collapsed on the couch, laughing. “You’re gonna be okay, Jill.”
She looked over at me, smiling. “Yeah?”
“Yeah.” I squeezed her shoulder, being mindful not to cross too many boundaries in one day. “Okay, let’s get you scheduled for your next appointment.”
Once she was gone, I sat back in my chair, falling into the familiar habit of notating my session. As I finished, a smile spread across my face. This was the life I’d always wanted, and now I had it.
As I finished up, my cellphone rang, and I picked it up, forgetting it was there.
“Hello?” I answered, not knowing the number.
“Loren,” Nat sighed into the phone. “I’m so glad I caught you.”
“Nat! How are you? How’s your mission?”
“It’s fine. The O’Sullivans aren’t working with Dayton. But I have news. Can you gather everyone and meet us here?”
“Oh, sure. Who’s everyone?” I asked, some trepidation building.
“Whoever is available, but especially the women.”
“Okay, send me the address, and we’ll be there as quickly as possible.”
“Thanks, Lor. It’s good to hear your voice. See you soon.” She hung up, and I stared at my phone, wondering what else had just been dumped into our lap.
Standing, I closed my office and headed back into the main house. Time to be the Mafia Queen.