FORTY ONE

NORA

"Can you drop me off near my house, but not right in front?" I asked Jordan, my cheeks reddening.

I didn't want to risk anyone seeing me arrive home on the back of a motorcycle. I felt a bit embarrassed about the whole situation, even though I knew it was silly.

"Of course.”

We drove to a spot just a few blocks from my house, and he pulled over. I hopped off the bike and thanked him, my heart still pounding from the ride. I watched him drive away, and then I turned to head towards my house.

I watched as my therapist entered our house, looking as professional as ever in her business suit and glasses. I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me, wondering if she had seen me on the back of a motorcycle.

I debated whether to go inside or not, torn between wanting to avoid an awkward conversation and not wanting to have any talks whatsoever with her, by all means. The sky grew dark and gloomy, and I took it as a sign to head inside.

I took a deep breath and opened the door, bracing myse