74 A Child Psychologis (1/2)
Noah was accurate in his prediction of me not being able to participate in batting practice. On Tuesday and Wednesday, I continued my endurance and speed training with Drew, during that time. Then afterwards I would join the team for situational plays and try to ingrain coach's words into my brain. Wednesday evening quickly approached and I left as soon as Mr. Atkins showed up to practice. I noticed Chris and Roberts, the original second baseman, glaring at me as I left, but no words were said.
Mr. Atkins took me directly to the therapist, not even letting me shower. We walked into a quiet looking building that simply said 'Behavioral Center.' No one was in the waiting room as the receptionist greeted us. Mr. Atkins filled out some papers as I sat in one of the many available chairs.
The place had magazines and toys spread out across a coffee table, but none really grabbed my attention. I patiently waited for Mr. Atkins to finish the paperwork and kept my eye on the receptionist. She kept sneaking looks at me, making me feel unsettled.
Mr. Atkins came to sit next to me after doing the paperwork. He gave me a tight smile. ”Doing okay?” I shrugged in response. ”For the first meeting, I think he'll let me be in the room with you. If that's okay with you?”
I nodded. Definitely. I didn't want to be alone with a total stranger. At least Mr. Atkins was an acquaintance.
We waited in silence as the receptionist entered the paperwork. After ten to fifteen minutes, she asked us to go on in. Mr. Atkins led the way and ducked through the doorway leading to the therapists office.
”You must be Wayne Atkins? I'm Dr. Elijah Moore.” I heard a voice from the other side of Mr. Atkins. He finished stepping through the door and revealed a thin man in glasses. They were shaking hands and exchanging greetings.
”And you must be Jake Hollander.” The thin man pushed up his glasses and held out a hand for me to shake. I stared at it, feeling awkward and wondered if it was too soon to leave.
”Jake doesn't really liked to be touched.” Mr. Atkins explained.
”Oh well. No matter. A lot of the kids I get are similar in that aspect. Please, take a seat.” He gestured to the couches in his office, before heading behind his desk. He sat down in his chair and I took note of the plaque on his desk: Elijah T. Moore, PhD. Child Psychologist.
I waited for Mr. Atkins to sit, then found a spoton the other side of the couch. I angled myself to make sure I had both men in my vision. Not that I think anything would happen, but it doesn't hurt to have a plan.
Dr. Moore was already scribbling on his notepad. ”So Jake, do you understand why you're here?”
I gave a nod of the head. They thought I was crazy for not talking. I think I might be too much like my mother. I remembered my explosion at the boys just this past Sunday.