Disclaimer: I own Chrono, yes I do! I'm a liar, how 'bout you!

Author's Note: See chapter one or chapter seven.

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Ticks of the Clock

Sessions

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Chrono shifted uncomfortably in the green velvet chair, cheeks positively on fire. "You thi—. . . WHAT?"

The woman sniffed disdainfully at the prospect of having to repeat herself, crossing her arms on her desk after straightening her name plaque: Dr. Kate Remington, Psychiatric PHD. Regardless, she kept her tone light and businesslike, with just a hint of cared concern. "Mr. Moriyama, I know this must be embarrassing for you, but really—if it's true, you're not alone. Hundreds upon thousands of men go through this and don't tell anyone about it because they're scared or shamed." A pause. "She's not threatening you, is she?"

"No!" Leaping to his feet with a yelp, Chrono began nervously toying with his braid, looking very much like he wanted to escape. But the thick oak door was locked right now and wouldn't be opened for another half hour. Besides, Rosette was right out there, and if she happened to catch a bit of this. . . conversation. . . Who's bright idea was it to come here, anyway? They didn't even need counseling. . . !'Oh, yeah. Joshua and Az did it as a joke. Well, we'll see who's laughing later. . .' "No, it's nothing like that at all!"

"I see your bruises from here, Mr. Moriyama."

The violet haired man flushed, straightening the lapels of his dress shirt. "Uh. . . er, that has a different explanation. . ."

"I see." Kate pursed her lips, jotting something down on a pad of paper. "Well, we have other people who deal with things like th—"

"I don't want it to be dealt with! Things are fine!" Chrono faltered. "Why am I still talking to you? Things are fine between me and my wif—!"

"But your scared posture," Dr. Remington pressed, eyes narrowing as she jammed a random pencil towards him emphatically. "Your shifty gaze, your nervous twitches! Where else could those come from?"

"YOU!"

"Hmm. . . you seem aggressive. Are you sure you're not suffering from domestic abuse?"

"ARGH!"

(Note: Okay, that was stupid. But I after watching Rosette beat up Chrono for the zillionth time, I began to wonder how it might be seen by others in another setting. ;) Weee!)