Page 93 of Pretty Nightmare

For once, it’s me talking him back into sanity.

And huh. What do ya know?

So that’s how you find happy.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN - DONOVAN

PRIVATE SESSION #58

INDIE: OK, Donovan. I don’t know what I’m doing. So give me some guidelines.

DONOVAN: It’s just relaxation stuff. That’s pretty much it. When I’m alone, I use this recorder. It’s like one of those… mmm. What do you call them? Fuckin’ crunchy people use them? Healing… center… people?

What the actual fuck are you talking about?

Self-guided meditation. That’s it. It’s like that. Only it’s me. Listen. You have knowledge, you have power, you are the master of your own future—

Why the hell are you talking in that stupid accent?

It’s not stupid. It’s just… American. And I don’t know. I just wanted it to sound… you know. Not like me.

If you say so. And that’s all I do? Just say stupid stuff like that?

I wrote you a script.

Oh. Why didn’t you just say so?

…

Does that work?

It’s your party, Donovan. I’ll read whatever you want. OK. So we’re ready? Flip that bitch on and let’s get this show on the road.

We’re already recording.

Perfect. OK then. Lie back, Donovan. And clear your mind—

Will you be serious?

What? You got to change your voice. That’s my sexy, I’m-a-therapist voice.

Just use your regular voice, please.

Fine. Lie back, Donovan. And clear your mind of all the pollution. Pollution? I’m not crazy about your word choice there.

Indie?

What?

Are you going to take this seriously? Or should we just forget it?

Lie back, Donovan. And clear your mind of all the pollution. Picture yourself on a sunny beach. Feel the sand underneath you. Feel the wind blowing across your wet body. Relax. Deep breath in. Deep breath out.

… (deep breathing)

How do you feel?

Not terrible.