[voice only]

[is_fear_itself]

[soft scuffling sounds, a wheezy cough, a wet and throaty snarl, and then something slams down with force right next to the device. He sounds slurred. Drunk maybe, beat up, definitely. Six of one and half a dozen of the other.]

Don't think've it as 'nother holiday... celebrated joyfully wi'family and friends.

Think've it as another holiday

Comments

voice

[iknowyourfear]

[ A bit dryly: ]

You're not sounding well, Dr. Crane.

voice

[is_fear_itself]

Nothing time won't cure.

[exhales] You and I sh-should talk...

voice

[iknowyourfear]

I don't think there's anything we need to discuss, Doctor.

voice

[is_fear_itself]

[bitter laugh] Then why.. why talk to me first.

Must have something you want.

voice

[iknowyourfear]

[ An exhale. ]

Let's get something straight. You and I-- we might both operate on fear, but that doesn't mean I work the way you do. I use it to help, not hurt.

I don't need anything from someone like you.

voice

[is_fear_itself]

..hmm... [meditative pause] People still mistrust you, don't they. I know how that feels.

I know how...hhk--[cough-spits]--how loneliness feels.

voice

[iknowyourfear]

[ There's a pause-- not meditative. Subtly uncomfortable. Finally: ]

People have a reason to mistrust me. I'm dangerous.

voice

[is_fear_itself]

[soft exhale.] Do you always think of others before yourself... Terry. Your name is Terry?

I spent some time...researching you. [hesitates--probably too drunk to approach this with his usual finesse, but he's willing to risk it] You're having nightmares.

voice

[iknowyourfear]

[ There's a flicker of defensiveness in his tone. ]

I'm a counselor. It's my job. [ A pause, then: ] And I'm not going to discuss my nightmares with you, Dr. Crane.

voice

[is_fear_itself]

I understand that. [softly] That sort've trust takes... time. Happily I've nothing but time.

--but you must know there're some secrets... we can never tell those we hold in high regard. Things that would damn us to them--and eat us alive in our silence nevertheless.

If you change your mind, my door is open.