章 66: 65. Home Again

"You have recovered enough physically to return to your normal routine. I would like to suggest, however, that you visit the counselor as soon as possible," the doctor, a chubby Indian woman with skin like polished bronze, said. 

Sheree wanted to listen to what she was saying, but she had to use all of her willpower to keep her head out of her pillow. Panic was spreading inside of her, and it made her want to hide until the feeling passed. She closed her eyes as she felt her chest tightening. 

"Hey, I'm right here. You're safe," Albert said as he took her hand in his.

She flinched at his initial touch and then squeezed his hand. She took several deep breaths and tried to talk herself down. Albert was here. She wasn't alone. She wasn't a hostage. She reminded herself with her eyes clenched shut. 

"You know, I wouldn't let nobody hurt you. You're good, Sheree," Albert said and gave her hand a squeeze.