The next day, after finishing my class, I took the day off and went to the hospital. At the reception, I told them I had an appointment with Dr. Lu. The receptionist looked up and smiled, "Ah, it's you. You can go right in."
I nodded and walked to his office. Knocking softly on the door, I heard his calm voice say, "Come in." I stepped inside and stood before him.
"Please, have a seat," he said kindly. I sat down, and he gently took my hand. As he carefully unwrapped the bandage, he checked my wound and nodded.
"It's healing well. Nothing to worry about—just make sure you don't get the area wet. Apply the ointment regularly."
"Okay, doctor," I replied.
"Shall we begin your therapy, Miss Qin?" he asked.
I hesitated for a second, nervous, but nodded. "Yes."
"Lie down on the bed," he said.
I blinked. "What?"
He chuckled lightly. "To check on you properly."
Understanding now, I smiled awkwardly and lay down. After a few moments, he told me I could sit up. I did.
He looked at me gently. "Can I ask… Why are you afraid of blood? Do you have PTSD?"
His words hit me hard. My heart sank. "Yes…" I admitted softly.
His eyes shifted, the warmth in them momentarily turning serious. But then he spoke in the same calm voice, "You don't have to tell me now. Take your time. When you feel ready, I'll be here. But until then, try to enjoy life—go out often, do things that make you happy."
He paused, then added, "Facing your fears gradually can help. Try to look at the things that scare you—it might lessen their power over you."
The way he comforted me… it touched something deep inside. My heart swelled, and tears began to fall.
Seeing me cry, Dr. Lu's expression softened. He reached out to pat my head but hesitated. Instead, his hand gently rested on my shoulder.
"Don't be afraid," he said. "Everything will be okay."
It was at that moment I felt something stir inside me. My heart pounded wildly. When I looked up at him, he was already gazing at me—and in that silence, it felt like something shifted between us.
"I will definitely treat you," he said, his voice steady, his eyes locked onto mine.
I felt my cheeks burn. My heart was racing. I stood up suddenly and turned to leave, flustered.
He blinked, surprised for a second—then reached out and gently grabbed my hand.