104 Talk to a Friend (2/2)
”I thought so, too. But Sebastian guessed the conversation we had and well, he said he liked me.” I paused. ”He said I could slowly realize how I felt about him and I was so curious that I couldn't handle it. So I kissed him. The internet said that if I kissed someone I liked, it was good.”
”There are other ways, too, Evie,” he told me.
”I know! But those matched up but I practically see him all day long so they don't count. So, I took a shortcut and kissed him.” Again silence.
”So, did you like it?”
”Yes...” I sounded guilty.
”So, what is the problem?” he asked, now sounding very confused.
”I don't know what to do next,” I admitted.
”Evie, do you have friends?” he asked.
”No.”
”I think you need to have a chat with friends... not Sebastian. Someone else that you know and like. Talk to them and I am sure you will find out what to do.”
”But what of my self-esteem and inability to accept affection?” I asked, panicked.
”I think you need to talk to someone more than talking to your therapist about it. Give it a try. Think of it as homework. You have to socialize with people anyway. Why not start today?”
I wanted to cry. ”Okay, but how do I make a friend so fast?” I asked.
”I have not the slightest clue,” he admitted. ”As your therapist, I cannot help you in a professional capacity to figure out. If you were having problems accepting his affection of admitting you like him, I could have done something. But you seem to be feeling awkward after accepting everything. As a professional, I can't talk to you in a friendly manner, okay?”
”I understand,” I grumbled. ”I don't have anyone to talk to, you know?” I sighed.
”It's okay, Evie. Start making connections. We can talk about this in the next session, too. Will you be okay until then?” he asked. I paused and thought about it.
The feeling was not unpleasant and the awkwardness would fade if I screamed about it to the world, so I gave my answer. ”Yes.” We exchanged greetings and I hung up quickly.
When I reached the professors' common room, I saw doctor Singh sitting in the hall, sipping on coffee as he read the newspaper.
”Evie, how are you doing this morning?” he asked with a brilliant smile.
”Well. And you?” I asked. The bulb went off in my head. ”Dr. Singh, do you consider me your friend?” I asked. He was surprised for a second before he broke into a fit of laughter.
”Of course, Evie!” he said.
”Do you have time during your lunch break?” I asked. He nodded pleasantly. From the corner of my eyes, I saw Sebastian come out of his office and clammed up. ”Okay, you are the only one I am close with. I have important matters to discuss with you.”
”What matters?” Sebastian asked, interrupting our conversation.