Soulmates

Chapter 46-First Appointment, Older men and prostitutes.

Based on 4x16, "Pleasure is my Business."

Trigger Warnings: Talks of panic attacks, prostitution, infidelity, and some sexual references. 

Ryan had gotten up early this morning. He was slightly nervous as today was his first day of therapy. He didn't know why he was so nervous, he was only going to talk to a complete stranger about his life and his past. What's to be nervous about. 

He got himself dressed and went downstairs, heading for the kitchen. He stopped slightly when he heard humming coming from there and some puttering. He also heard some giggling. He went into the kitchen to see Emily cooking breakfast with Tyler and Emma. His heart warmed at the image. 

Actually it was more like Emily and Tyler were cooking and Emma was observing from her seat at the counter. Whatever Emily was cooking popped somewhat and she startled, "Shit." She said. "I'm telling daddy that you swore." Emma said. Emily turned around to say something but then saw Ryan standing there. She smiled, "Good morning, Ryan." She greeted. 

"Good morning, swearer." Ryan greeted teasingly. Emily shrugged, "Slip of the tongue." She said as she and Ryan hugged. Ryan then went and kissed the top of Emma's head and then hugged Tyler. "Daddy, I helped Emily make breakfast." Tyler said. Ryan looked at some of the breakfast. Bacon, Toast, pancakes, and it looks like Emily was still working on eggs. 

"Looks like you did a good job bud." Ryan complimented. He then turned to Emily, "Looks like your cooking has really gotten better." He stated to her. Emily shrugged as she continued working on the eggs, "What can I say, I had a good teacher." She said. 

Soon enough they all sat down to breakfast. It was filled with laughter and joy as Emma and Tyler informed Ryan and Emily of their dreams. Emma also told of she was really liking reading. Ryan came home one time and found Emma looking at a picture book. She then tried to sound out the words and got most of them correct.  Advanced for her age. 

 "How about tonight you read us a story, instead of me or your dad reading you a story." Emily suggested. Emma smiled at the prospect and nodded her little head, "Yeah." She said. Ryan chuckled and then checked his watch. Seeing the time, he looked at his two kids. "Listen kiddos, I need to go to a meeting that's starting early so Emily is gonna drive you guys to school. Okay?" He asked. 

They both nodded, "Okay." They said simultaneously. Soon enough, they were done with breakfast and the kids went to get their stuff, after saying bye to their dad. Ryan walked with Emily to the doorway. 'Thanks again for agreeing to take them." He said. Emily shrugged, "Of course. Gives me more time with them anyway." Ryan nodded and went to put his coat on. 

Emily looked at him with a look, "You know I'm proud of you for trying this." She said. Ryan gave a small smile, "Well, let's see if it helps." He said. Once his coat was fully on he and Emily shared a hug. They broke apart and Ryan then opened the door, "Stay safe." He said. Emily smiled, "You too." She responded and Ryan left. 

Emily went into the  living room where the two children came into ready. "All right angels, let's say we get you all off to school?" She asked. Tyler and Emma nodded with enthusiasm. Emily laughed, "okay. Let's get your coats on." 

-

Ryan parked his car in front of an office building in downtown D.C.. The building was a modest one with a red paint chip. It was modern enough. Had a professional appeal but still had a welcome feeling to it. Ryan went in and checked the board to see what floor this therapists was on. Once he saw that he was on the third floor he headed for the elevator.  

Arriving on the third floor he went straight to a reception desk. There was an older lady behind it. She looked to be about in her mind 60s with thick round glasses and black hair with a hint of grey in it. Ryan walked up to the desk and she looked at him and gave him a small smile, "Good morning, sir. What can I help you with?" She asked. Ryan returned the smile and cleared his throat, "Ryan Christensen, I have an appointment with Dr. Stark." He said.