The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 36

**Chapter 36: Eastwind Air 1061**

As Serena strolled down the street, her mind was preoccupied with the supplies she had just purchased for her upcoming journey. Yet, as she turned a corner, an unexpected sight caught her eye—a building she hadn’t visited in years loomed before her, its presence stirring a whirlwind of memories within her.

It was the North Crest Recovery & Counseling Center, a place that had once been both a sanctuary and a prison for her.

“Dr. Lin,” she whispered to herself, her heart quickening as she spotted a familiar figure stepping out of a car just ahead. It was none other than her former therapist, Dr. Harper Lin, a Clinical Psychologist who had guided her through some of the darkest moments of her childhood.

Serena’s feet moved almost of their own accord as she parked her car hastily at the roadside and made her way toward the doctor.

“Dr. Lin! Doctor!” she called out, her voice a mix of excitement and trepidation.

Dr. Lin, who appeared to be in her fifties, still exuded an air of grace and professionalism as she managed the family-owned therapy center. Her short, neatly styled black hair had begun to show soft strands of gray, reflecting the wisdom earned through years of experience. The calming almond-shaped eyes that met Serena’s were filled with understanding, creating an atmosphere in which one felt accepted rather than judged.

“Serena,” Dr. Lin replied warmly, her voice laced with genuine surprise. “It has been… what, six or seven years since your last visit?”

Serena’s mind raced back to those years. She had undergone intensive therapy between the ages of eight and nine, followed by annual check-ups until she turned twelve. After that, her visits had dwindled to a few holiday check-ins, where she would bring Dr. Lin a small Christmas gift, a token of gratitude for the help she had received.

“I meant to reach out,” Dr. Lin continued, her expression softening, “but I lost your contact number. Would you like to come inside? We could have a chat.”

“No need,” Serena replied, her voice firm yet gentle. “I just wanted to say hi. I’m in a bit of a rush, actually.”

Dr. Lin sighed, a hint of concern etching her features. “How are you holding up? I heard about your separation. Is it true that you and your husband have parted ways?”

Serena nodded, her heart heavy with unspoken emotions. “It was never real,” she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.

“You didn’t deserve that,” Dr. Lin said, her grip on Serena’s hand tightening slightly, as if to offer comfort.

In that moment, Serena felt a wave of conflicting emotions wash over her. She looked down, avoiding the doctor’s gaze, as memories of her past flooded her mind—memories of pain, resilience, and the slow journey toward healing.

“I know it must be difficult,” Dr. Lin continued, her voice soothing, “but remember those sessions we had together. You don’t have to be strong all the time. Allow yourself to feel, even if it’s in small doses. When it becomes too overwhelming, take a moment to breathe, and don’t hesitate to reach out. Healing isn’t meant to be a solitary endeavor.” She retrieved a business card from her pocket and handed it to Serena. “Call me whenever you need. Even if it’s just for a chat, I’d be more than happy to help you navigate through this storm.”

A warmth blossomed in Serena’s chest at the doctor’s words. She mustered a smile, albeit a faint one. “Thank you, Doctor. I really appreciate it. I have an interview in Oakridge tomorrow, and I’ll likely be moving there, but I’ll make sure to return to Velmon City before my job starts. I’d love to see you again.”

“Tomorrow, you say?” Dr. Lin asked, her brows knitting together in concern.

“Actually, tonight,” Serena corrected her, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety about the impending change.

The doctor stepped forward, enveloping Serena in a brief hug. “Good luck. Remember, you are stronger than you realize, Serena. Hold onto that thought.”

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