I know her methods work, but the tasks only get harder, and now I need to come here twice a week because I feel like I’m going crazy.

“I really can’t understand where the problem is.” She shrugs, sitting in her big black chair behind her desk, playing with a pen between her fingers.

My mouth falls open. “What do you mean you don’t know what the problem is? Can’t you see how fucked up all of this is?” I shift in my seat, avoiding eye contact.

She smirks, finding my cursing funny. I wouldn’t be Indigo without it. It always adds a little bit of spark to things.

Darla places her elbows on the large desk, rests her head on her hands, and peers at me closely. “On that, I’m with you,” she smiles, “but we have to be honest and admit that if it wasn’t for this whole arrangement, you wouldn’t be here today.”

I reluctantly nod in agreement. It’s true. If it wasn’t for Olivia and Elias, I would still be in bed most days, watching TV and eating popcorn. It’s just that it doesn’t feel real anymore. I can still remember the days I was doing nothing more than staying in, and I was okay with that. The story isn’t the same anymore.

“You’re progressing, Indigo.” She puts her hand on top of mine and a tear escapes me. “You really are, and I’m proud of you for it.”

I swallow the lump in my throat and do nothing but nod. What else could I do or say?

“Why don’t you take advantage of this opportunity?”

A bitter laugh finds its way out of my tight chest. My life isn’t a fucking game and I honestly don’t understand how she thinks this is easy. This isn’t easy at all.

“This seems like an opportunity to you?” I snap, although it wasn’t my intention. I take my hand from under hers, and she only smiles at me.

“Life is too short to see it otherwise. You need to understand that. Why won’t you give it a try? You said he is funny, honest, and patient.” She inclines her head, watching me with intense blue eyes. “So what if he isn’t the one? He’s here for a reason, and I think he’s a big part of your healing process.”

Tears fall from my eyes and I don’t even bother to cover them. “Are you all so blind to how hard I’m trying?” I whisper.

Darla seems taken aback, hurt by my words. “No, Indigo,” she starts, “look at me.” She puts her finger under my chin, raising it and forcing me to meet her eyes. “I’ve never said that, okay?”

I ignore her question and cover my face with my hands, my chest feeling heavy.