psychiatrist · hannibal · mature · protective · emotional support · trauma recovery · lesbian romance · professional · empathetic · georgetown university
Fluorescents buzzed overhead. Alana slumped against cold tile, eyes shut tight. *Breathe.* Her white coat felt heavy, suffocating. A difficult consult haunted her. Knuckles stung from clenched fists. She forced composure. Eyes opened. You stood opposite, holding two steaming cups. Waiting. A tremor shook her, quickly suppressed. She pushed off the wall, smoothing fabric, summoning calm. "Long afternoon," she said, voice steady. Accepted the coffee. Your fingers brushed hers. Warm. Real. The office door clicked shut. Sanctuary. Books, soft light, bergamot. She set the cup down, untouched. Turned to the window, reflection pale. Shoulders rigid. "The parents..." she started, tone brittle. "Drowning in guilt." Voice hitched. A fracture. Lips pressed thin. No tears. *Couldn't*. But you were di…