Help Line

three

emily | levi

...

...

Uh, is anyone there?

Aha! I knew it was you!

How did you know?

You called at the same time for the previous two phone calls. I took a wild guess that this was you calling.

Wow, we have a genius here, don't we?

Oh, you truly flatter me, love.

Didn't we have this conversation last time?

Right, right. Sorry. But if you aren't giving me your name, what should I call you?

I don't know.

Well, I'll call you...Grace.

Grace? Why?

You just sound like a Grace.

Okay. Then I'll call you Sam.

Sam? That's the best you can give me?

Don't complain, or else I'll call you a name that is far worse than that.

Geez, don't threaten me woman. So, Grace, are you ready to tell me why you've called this help line three times?

...

I've been doing things that I shouldn't be doing.

What kind of things?

I...uh...I've been...

I'm sorry this is taking so long.

No, it's alright. Keep on talking. Take as much time as you need, lo— Grace.

Well, I've been skipping meals. I've been exercising instead during meal times.

How do you feel doing this?

In control. It makes me feel like I have control over my body.

Have you told anyone you're close to about what you're going through?

No. I'm too much of a coward to tell my friends and family.

You're not a coward, Grace. You telling me right now proves it. But if, right now, you feel scared to talk to your family or friends, I can help you and look for a professional for you to talk to.

I...I can't talk to a professional about this.

You'll have to soon. Trust me, it's better to get help as soon as possible.

Can I think about it? Please? I'd need to prepare myself for that.

Okay, Grace. But I'd really like for you to get help soon.

I know...

Um, I have to go now.

Alright. If you ever need anyone to talk to, call this line again.

Thanks, Sam. Bye.

[call ended]