The Signal

Eve sat rigidly as the therapist came into the room. She had

been a bit relaxed before the woman came in, taking in the

serene room filled with house plants and with artworks

scattered around casually. Eve had nothing against Dr Ali, the

woman had been trying to help her since the trial started and

her lawyer insisted on her talking to a therapist to get it all

out. Dr Ali had a quiet voice with the faintest hint of a

northern accent. She was petite with kind, sharp eyes. No, Eve

had nothing against the doctor, she just couldn't talk to

strangers.

Dr Ali watched as Eve subtly appraised her under her eyes.

Years of being a therapist and a keen observer gave her an

upper hand. She sighed but she had work to do, and fast, or

the young lady would not survive the trial."Eve" Dr Ali said

and watched the girl unwind her hands, place them on her

laps, and look up to her. "Do you want tea or coffee?" the

doctor asked." No, thanks" Eve replied. She knew the doctor

was just trying to help her and she needed to do better.

"A penny for your thoughts, Eve" Dr Ali said smiling at

Eve. "Tell me what you are thinking", she encouraged. The

poor girl had gone through the most gruesome experience and

only herself and the court could help her. The court gave them

two weeks for the session, but it was the last week and what

they needed was a miracle. Eve cleared her throat and said

"Mmmmm...i was thinking about how nice and helpful you

have been to me" Dr Ali nodded, they were finally getting

there! "And you know you have to help us help you, right?",

the doctor implored. Eve nodded, "yes ma'am" picking her

notepad, the doctor said, "so let's start from the night you saw

the blinking light".