Christmas Therapy

She turned in her seat to face her mother. “I’ve always wanted you to be happy, Mom. I’ve worked hard to make sure this family was okay.”

“That wasn’t your job. You were a kid. I’m sorry if I gave you too much responsibility.”

“You didn’t. I wanted to help, but…” She blew out her cheeks. “I can’t support you on this. I think it’s a mistake.”

Her mother released a deep breath. “I respect your feelings, but I want you to reconsider.” Her mother stood grabbing her phone and purse. “I have some errands to run as we get closer to the Christmas fair. Want to come?”

Heather shook her head,

“Very well.” With that, her mother left her sitting on the couch. Tinsel padded over to her and she placed him in her lap. She stroked his fur as another tear rolled down her cheek.

***

That weekend, stepping inside Better U Fitness felt like home to Heather. The clank of metal as barbells bounced against the floor after a dead-lift. Product display cases carried supplements endorsed by athletes and famous bodybuilders. Television sets affixed on the walls and the familiar smell of sweat and antibacterial cleaner filled her nose.

Heather made her way to her classroom and stared behind the glass wall. Her students were in a downward dog push-up. Gina Hall, who’d been more than gracious to take over her class, gave instructions. Heather smiled through the glass window. Perhaps today’s visit would get her mind off her problems.

“You’re back on your feet?” Terrance said behind her.

She pivoted to face him. “Getting there.”

“You came here on your own?”

“I can drive with my other leg,” Heather said. “So… you asked my sister out?”

His posture stiffened. “She told you?”

“Small town, Terrance. And no, my mother did.”

“I hope you don’t mind, Heather. I understood when you said you’d rather be friends, and I didn’t plan on liking your sister.”

“She’s great, so I can’t blame you.”

“So you’re cool with it?” he asked.

“I guess I have to be.” Everything in her world was changing. Did she not want them to though? Was she happy coming home to an empty house with only a dog for company? She loved Tinsel, but even he didn’t fill the gaps in her heart. What about her mother? Did she prefer her alone?

“You okay, Heather?” Terrance asked.

She forced a smile. “Yeah, I’m good. I just came to visit.”

“Heather!” A female voice shrieked. Next, her students surrounded her. Heather hugged them all.

“How are you feeling?” Gina asked. She was the last to hug Heather.

“Better. I missed you guys.”

/>

“We miss you. Hope you’ll be back soon,” Gina said.

Warmth spread through her chest. She always felt loved by her students, but they went above and beyond during her recovery. Heather didn’t indulge in all the treats they’d sent, but she couldn’t resist the birthday cake pops.

On her way home, she drove in silence. She wanted to talk to Allen but didn’t dare to call him back. He called to check on her. He even called to say he hoped she liked her new therapist. She didn’t respond. She only deleted the voicemails, ignoring the tears threatening to spill from her eyes.

Pulling into her driveway, she caught her dog walker, Carmen, bringing Tinsel home. Was that a Ford truck parked in her driveway? Once her eyes diverted to the man standing on her porch, she saw the man she wished she never saw again. Heather got out of her car and Tinsel jumped on his hind legs. She retrieved the leash from Carmen and thanked her. Heather ignored her father and ascended the steps of her porch.

“Heather?” His voice was pleading.