On the day of the Seminar...
The hall was packed with people, mostly couples, by the way, they held hands. Missy and I made our way to our seats.
The guest speaker, Dr. Teresa Diaz was introduced with applauds after opening prayers by the Pastor in charge and other formalities.
Truth be told, Dr. Teresa Diaz is a a beautiful woman.
She had a lean figure with curves in the right proportions. She had this aura of confidence and gentility around her. Her blue chiffon blouse paired with a black fitted skirt reaching her knees portrayed her elegance.
I still couldn't grasp what was so fascinating about this woman. Her words about Love and Trust pulled my strings of annoyance.
How could she make them think Love was a beautiful thing.
How could she tell them that trust was an important factor.
Everyone listened with rapt attention to her words like her words were magical.
"It's all bullshit, how can you trust people who don't care or see the pain they inflict on you. They benefit from your pain and enjoy inflicting more on you. Every attempt to escape is futile. They are happy you have no where to run or hide and still they claim to love you."
No sound was heard and all eyes were on me.
"Oops! looks like I blurted out my thoughts."
I was so embarrassed that I ran out of the hall and went straight home.
~~~~~~
Later that day...
Everyday I would get up, wipe aside my fears, remember all the good in my life and put on a smile for everyone. I always tried to avoid talking or remembering anything related to my past.
How could I have allowed her words to strike a tone of discord in my heart. I thought I had mastered the art of masking my true feelings under a smile . Did I fall for her charm and that air of gentility around her.
A knock sounded on my door making me jump slightly.
"Why did you run off like that and you couldn't even wait for me or give me a call." Missy shouted as soon as I opened the door.
She came in and started blabbing about how the Seminar ended on a good note and how people were so happy to have Dr. Diaz in their midst.
I pretended to listen to the details of the Seminar until she waved a card in my face.
"What's that?"
"Well after you ran out, Dr. Diaz wanted to know who you are, so I told her you came with me. She told me to see her later, she then gave me her card with her phone number to give you. I told her your name". She responded before taking her leave.
Breathe in, breath out... What harm could collecting the card do. At least I still had a choice whether to call or not.
The business card looked very plain with Perla Counseling Center written boldly on top,it was just an hour drive.
A number was scribbled on the back of the card.
Missy had no way of knowing if I called her or not. I could always tell her that the call didn't go through.
I won't allow a stranger make me anxious over a mere lecture. I am going to keep on putting on a brave face and care for my family.