Mort nervously paced the waiting room.  Alex was sitting on a leather couch, an unopened magazine in her hands.  She had tried to assure him time and time again that Dr. Harris was known for his work, but this only caused Mort's nerves to become even more frazzled.

"What if he wants to lock me up?" Mort said, finally sitting down.

Alex gave him a pitying look.  "I really don't think that's going to be an option to consider."  She took his hand in hers and, just as Mort had done on their first date, she traced her finger along his palm – it seemed to calm him.  "Look at you, you're a ball of nerves.  You need to at least try to relax."

"Do I have to be on my back, staring at the ceiling saying things like, 'Well, my childhood wasn't a happy one, but…'"

"You'll tell me what you feel comfortable telling me, Mr. Rainey."  Mort looked up.  Dr. Harris was standing in the doorway, a pleasant smile on his face.  He walked over to the couple and extended his hand.  "I'm Dr. Andrew Harris – and I can promise you that I'll be very easy on you today." 

Mort shook his hand, saying, "I've never done this."

"You'll be fine," Dr. Harris said confidently.  "And when you leave, you have a lovely young lady to escort you out of here."  Dr. Harris turned his eyes to Alex and she smiled.  "How are you Alex?"

She took shook his hand.  "I'm fine, Dr. Harris – just a little worried about him."  Mort blushed despite his nerves; he reveled in the fact that Alex cared about him so much. 

"I'll take good care of him."

"Thank you."

"Are you ready, Mr. Rainey?"

"Mort, please," Mort said softly.  "Yeah, I guess."  He looked at Alex, his eyes unsure.  When he stood up, she stood with him, pulling him into her arms.

"You're going to be fine," she whispered in his ear.  She kissed his cheek, then quickly caught his lips with her own.  She felt his body relax slightly and she gave him a final, gentle squeeze.  "I'll be here waiting for you."  She let him go and he followed Dr. Harris to his office.  Alex closed her eyes, a tear falling down her cheek.  He'll be fine…he has to be.

***

Author's Note: Yes, this was a very short chapter, but that happens once in a while.  Thanks for all of the reviews so far – they are what get me revved up for writing more.  Please, keep 'em coming!