"If You Need Help, This Is What I Can Offer" by Susan M.

I'll hear you out.

At first, I'll just look down at my feet as you speak, watching the steps we take, and letting your words rattle. Those words will rearrange and stack themselves, becoming cohesive as we move through them.

 Then, I will look at your face. I'll tilt my head and squint my eyes a little bit, because I really want to see what you are saying. I want to watch the way your mouth and eyes are moving, waiting for the corners of each to telegraph the truth you're about to speak.

 And when you put it all together, I will let your honesty wash over every cell of my being as that soul layer that is around both of us breathes out, then in, and expands.