A week had passed, and life had settled into a rhythm for Wren and Connor. Wren adhered to her medication regimen diligently and tackled her classwork from the comfort of their home. Connor, balancing his work-from-home schedule with occasional office meetings, ensured he was always just a call away.

Their days were brightened by visits from Stormi and Riley, who came by to keep Wren company and offer support. Their presence was a balm for her solitude, providing her with a sense of normalcy and connection. Connor, ever vigilant, kept a watchful eye on Wren, concerned that she might relapse and hurt herself again.

Now, the time had come for their regular check-in with Dr. Lawson, the psychologist. They sat in the waiting room, a mixture of nervous anticipation and cautious optimism hanging in the air.

The door opened, and Dr. Lawson greeted them with a warm smile. “Hello, Wren.”

“Hi,” Wren responded, offering a tentative smile.

“And hello, Connor,” the doctor said, turning to him.

“Hello,” Connor replied, his tone steady but filled with care.

Dr. Lawson gestured for them to take their seats in her office. “Well, you look a bit better,” she noted as they settled into the comfortable chairs. “How have you been?”

Wren hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “Umm…not bad.”

“Good to hear. How has school been going?”

“Pretty good. I do everything online now from home,” Wren explained.

Dr. Lawson nodded, noting the progress. “Did you move back into your place?”

Wren shook her head. “No, I am living with Connor.”

“I see,” the doctor acknowledged. “And how does that arrangement feel?”

“I made him a promise,” Wren said quietly, “to stay with him so he knows I’m safe.”

Dr. Lawson turned to Connor. “Connor, do you think she is doing better?”

Connor thought for a moment before answering. “I still have to remind her about taking her meds, but other than that, she’s doing pretty good.”

“That’s great to hear,” Dr. Lawson said, her eyes warm with approval. She turned her attention back to Wren. “Did you bring your journal?”

Wren reached into her bag and handed the journal to the doctor. “It’s right here.”

Dr. Lawson took the journal and began flipping through the pages, scanning Wren’s entries with a practiced eye. The room fell into a hushed silence as the doctor read.

After a few moments, Dr. Lawson looked up, her expression thoughtful. “I see you are still struggling with yourself.”

Wren’s heart sank at the observation. “What do you mean?”

“You still question whether you deserve love,” Dr. Lawson explained gently.

Wren’s fingers intertwined in her lap as she sat quietly, absorbing the words. She felt a pang of discomfort but remained silent, unable to fully articulate her feelings.

“This is absolutely normal for someone who has experienced what you did,” Dr. Lawson continued. “It’s a common struggle. But you need to understand that you are worthy of love. The man next to you is proof of that.”

Wren glanced at Connor, who met her gaze with a bright, reassuring smile. He reached out and placed his hand on top of hers, his touch warm and comforting.

The gesture was simple, yet profound. Wren felt a surge of emotion, the weight of her doubts momentarily lifted by his unwavering support. She squeezed his hand gently, finding solace in the gesture.

Dr. Lawson’s voice was soft but firm. “Remember, Wren, you deserve love just as much as anyone else. Your journey towards healing is a testament to your strength and worthiness.”

Wren nodded slowly, her eyes misting over with unshed tears. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice trembling with gratitude.

Connor’s presence beside her was a steady anchor, a reminder of the love and support that surrounded her. Wren felt a renewed sense of hope, bolstered by the reassurance that she was not alone on this path. The journey was far from over, but with Connor by her side and the support of those who cared about her, Wren took a deep breath, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Wren took a deep breath, her gaze fixed on her lap. “I’m starting to understand that, but I still feel dirty.”

Dr. Lawson nodded, her voice soothing. “That’s understandable. Do you still find yourself scrubbing extra in the shower?”

Wren hesitated before answering. “Yes, but not as often.”

“That’s good progress,” Dr. Lawson said. “We still need to work on that. Keep practicing positive thoughts. As you wash, tell yourself ‘I’m clean’ with one or two strokes on your skin.”

Wren nodded, a determined look in her eyes. “Okay, I can do that.”

Dr. Lawson turned her attention to Connor. “Connor, how are things with Wren’s intimacy issues? Is there any improvement?”

Connor’s expression softened with pride. “She’s allowed me to hold her hand, and she’ll let me hold her while we sleep now.”

Wren noticed a pleased smile spreading across Dr. Lawson’s face.

“That’s wonderful, Wren,” Dr. Lawson said warmly. “I’m proud of you!”

“Thanks,” Wren replied, a shy smile touching her lips.

Dr. Lawson shifted in her seat, her eyes thoughtful. “I have a new assignment for you.”

Wren looked up with curiosity. “What is that?”

Dr. Lawson addressed Connor next. “Connor, do you think you could take her on a weekend getaway?”

Connor’s response was immediate and enthusiastic. “Absolutely.”

Dr. Lawson’s gaze was steady as she continued. “I’d like you to spend some intimate time together and travel somewhere you’ll both enjoy. Share a room, continue holding hands, light body contact, and really focus on each other.”

Wren’s brows furrowed in concern. “Will that really help me?”

Dr. Lawson’s smile was reassuring. “Yes, it will. I want you to really focus on your true feelings towards Connor. Pay attention to how he treats you. This will help you realize the bond you both have and give you a greater sense of security in your relationship.”

Wren nodded slowly, absorbing the advice. “Okay.”

“Excellent,” Dr. Lawson said. “Please also continue to track your feelings in your journal.”

Wren nodded again, her resolve firm. “I can do that.”

Dr. Lawson then addressed Connor. “Connor, you need to continue being patient with her and move at her pace.”

“I will,” Connor promised, his voice steady and supportive.

Dr. Lawson glanced at the clock, signaling the end of the session. “That’s all for today. Continue taking your medicine on time, and I’ll see you in a week.”

“Goodbye,” Wren said softly.

“Bye,” Connor echoed, his hand gently squeezing Wren’s as they stood up.

As they left the office, the afternoon sun seemed to embrace them with a newfound warmth. The assignment of the weekend getaway hung in the air, a beacon of hope and possibility. Wren and Connor exchanged a look of mutual understanding and anticipation, ready to embark on this next step in their journey together.