Mac was oddly buoyant as he made his way out of his cab and to the crime lab.
The reason for his mood was he was finally going to come clean about his ordeal with his best friend and closet colleague Stella Bonasera.
Through Mac was also feeling immense terror his happiness and relief about the situation ultimately outweighed his fears.
Mac thought back in that second to his therapist Dr. Collin's words of encouragement
I think you should start off with telling Stella first you two are the closest and I think it will truly benefit your recovery.
I can do this. I will do this Mac thought confidently.
With that he took a deep breath and walked toward a smiling Stella.
Mac said happily "Hey Stell how was your morning?"
Stella smiled warmly at Mac and replied sarcastically "It was pretty hectic but I survived."
Mac laughed nervously.
He then said "So you want to go to the Starbucks near here?"
Stella nodded and said cheerfully "Sure, I guess."
Mac nodded and the two started to walk the ten blocks to the popular coffee shop.
Once they were their they ordered thier coffees and desserts.
Mac then picked a booth in the very back so they wouldn't be over heard by other people.
Apart form comments on their choice of beverages and desserts neither Mac or Stella spoke.
Stella as he had assumed already knew that he had something important to tell her.
They had after all know each other for ten years and Stella could usually pick up on Mac's moods.
They were halfway through their desserts.
Knowing it was now or never Mac took a deep breath and said "Stella remember how I said that my therapy session was eye opening?"
Stella nodded she sipped her tea cleared her throat and replied "Yes, I remember."
Mac took a long sip of his coffee. He then took a deep breath and replied hesitatingly "Well Dr. Collins said that I should somewhat explain to what happened with.. Mac was barely able to say her name.
He took another deep breath and started again "He suggested it would be good for me to explain what happened with .. Ella."
Stella gave Mac a startled look. Clearly she was surprised by his response.
Mac normally didn't talk about his private life with her or any one Stella took a small sip of her tea.
She then smiled warmly and said softly "Mac I know you are really discreet person you don't have to tell me anything I don't expect you too but I will listen if you choose too also I promise that whatever you say to me I will not repeat to anyone unless you tell me."
Mac was truly touched. He took another long sip of his coffee.
He then took another deep breath and replied grateful "Thanks Stella that means a lot."
Stella smiled. She reached across the table and squeezed Mac's hand for a second.
She then said supportive "No problem."
Mac took another deep breath.
He then straightened in his chair and started to recount his horrific ordeal to Stella.
