Darn Stupid Brother You Are by Mairee

Chapter 53

(Angel's POV)

The walls felt even tighter than usual today, almost like they were closing in on me. It was Day Five of the confinement week, and tension was high, almost unbearable. They'd announced a mandatory group therapy session over the speakers this morning, something about "coping mechanisms during stressful times."

We all filed into the room, the scent of stale air and disinfectant hitting my nose as soon as I entered. The chairs were arranged in a circle, as always, but today there was something different. There was a heaviness in the air.

Group therapy was a regular activity at the center, meant to encourage us to "open up" about our feelings. Dr. Timothy, a tall man with graying hair and cold eyes, usually led these sessions. We'd sit in a circle, and he'd ask questions, trying to pry into our deepest thoughts. Most of us gave him the answers he wanted to hear, knowing that any hint of resistance would lead to more probing, more questions.

But today felt different. Today, it felt like we were on trial.

And most importantly, today Dr. Joe was the one who led the session. It had been a few weeks since I last saw his creepy self.

I took a seat, trying to blend in, trying not to draw any attention. But I could feel his eyes on me from the moment I sat down. Dr. Joe cleared his throat, giving everyone a pleasant smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Good morning, everyone. I know this week has been challenging, but we're all here to support each other."

A few murmurs of agreement sounded around the circle.

"Today, I'd like to try something a little different," he said and his gaze lingered on me for a moment longer than was comfortable. "I'd like us to focus on one of our fellow patients, to help them through their experiences here at the center." The hairs on the back of my neck stood up.

"Angel," Dr. Joe called, and his voice was smooth and warm, like a snake sliding over a rock. "Would you mind being our focus for today?"

I swallowed hard and nodded. What choice did I have?

"Excellent," he said and clapped his hands together. "Let's start, shall we?"

The other patients shifted in their seats and their eyes flickered between me and Dr. Joe like they were watching some sort of dark reality show. "Angel," Dr. Joe began as he leaned forward and rested his elbows on his knees. "How have you found your time at the center?"

I took a breath and kept my voice steady. "It's been... eye-opening."

He raised an eyebrow. "Eye-opening? In what way?"

I forced a smile. "I've learned a lot about myself and I've had time to think."

He hummed and tilted his head. "And what have you discovered?"

stronger than I thought," I replied, hoping that would be enough, but I

in his chair and crossed one leg over the other. "Have you found any challenges during your stay?"

And how have

my friends and staying busy," I replied quickly.

echoed and a small smile appeared on his

dorm mates mostly-Hande,

else?" he pressed and his gaze bore

I hesitated. "Not really."

me in a lie.

my

he asked and his tone dripped with

as they waited and watched.

Joe nodded but I could see the doubt in his eyes. "And have you

felt my face heat up.

He leaned forward again with his elbows on his knees and stared at me like I was some kind of puzzle he wanted to solve. "Are

my voice

head. "You don't feel conflicted

my expression

he replied with a shrug. "It's not unusual to feel conflicted, especially in a place like

that anything

thoughtfully. "Tell me, Angel, have you taken part in any activities

and my heart beat

said and his smile widened. "Exploring areas you shouldn't be in, perhaps?

haven't,"

and his eyes narrowed.

I lied and prayed he couldn't

shook his head. "You're

speaking again. "Do

and chose

how?" he asked and his gaze never

feel more in control," I lied

the words. "And what about your brother? Does he feel