The Clairvoyant

6

For days, I was engrossed in my academic report on psychiatric practices, knowing that its success could cement my reputation. After submitting it, I finally had a moment to breathe.

I called Zoe to my office, noticing she looked healthier, a testament to the privileges I'd afforded her. She was preoccupied with a new doll, not one I'd given her, but I let it pass without comment. Instead, I presented her with a crystal music box, its snowy scene captivating her instantly. I informed her it was her reward for today's task.

Eagerly, she awaited the name of the person she was to observe. Without hesitation, I said, "Diana."

Trust, once fractured, is hard to mend.

Zoe closed her eyes, narrating a peaceful scene at the vacation home. But her calm demeanor shattered abruptly, her eyes snapping open in terror. "Blood, there's so much blood!" she recoiled, retreating into the couch.

"What did you see?" I urged, grasping her shoulders.

She described a chilling scene involving Diana and another woman at the vacation home—the woman from my office, identifiable by a mole under her right eye.

My mind raced. Megan and Diana together spelled disaster.

With my father-in-law's health declining and my control over the hospital within reach, any scandal could ruin everything.

Why was Megan at the vacation home? Was Diana seeking revenge by involving her? It seemed plausible, a vindictive move that could destroy me.

Seized by a mix of fury and panic, I grabbed my car keys, ready to confront the situation head-on. But Zoe's mention of blood haunted me. She saw the two women talking amidst the chaos, but the details were unclear.

Time was of the essence. I raced down the highway, indifferent to speeding tickets. Years of careful planning couldn't be undone now. I was prepared to do anything to appease Megan, even if it meant groveling or shedding tears.

But would Megan forgive me? And if she didn't, what then?

Gripping the steering wheel, my resolve hardened. If necessary, I was willing to eliminate any threat to my future.