Haruto sat in Dr. Misaki's consultation room, the morning light from the window behind her making the silver strands in her hair glow softly. His hands were clasped tightly in his lap, knuckles white. The guilt from the previous night had not left his stomach. It sat like a stone in his chest, pressing down until breathing felt painful.
He took a deep breath and began to speak.
"Sensei… actually I kept many things hidden from you. You are my mother's oldest friend. I didn't think I could share something like this with you. That's why I never told you anything about it."
Dr. Misaki leaned forward slightly, her expression calm and open. She folded her hands on the desk and gave him a gentle, understanding smile.
"Haruto-kun… don't worry about it at all. I won't tell your mother. And you can share everything with me. Treat me as a free-minded friend. I have been treating patients for many years. Nothing you say will shock me. You can speak freely."
