The car was silent as we pulled to stop in front of the doctors office. Bette in the drivers seat, me in the passengers and Evan in the back. No one made an attempt to move.

Babe?
Huh?
We have to physically leave the car in order to see the doctor, I said looking at Bette.

She was just as scared as Evan about the visit.
Yeah, yeah, she said opening the door.

I followed suit and Evan climbed out behind me.

Even though we got out of the car, the both of them stood still. I grabbed Bettes hand and then Evans and started to walk to the entrance. I knew the purpose of the visit and hoping that some questions would be answered today but we would never make it that far if I didnt take the initiative. Through the doors and into the elevator. Both still stood quiet and before we reached our floor I kissed each of their hands in reassurance.

May I help you? asked the receptionist behind the massive desk.
Yes… we have an appointment for Evan-Marie Porter-Kennard, I replied.

The middle aged woman trailed her pen down the log book and found Evans name.

Uh, yes, I will inform Dr. Dowling that you are here. Please have a seat.
Thank you.

I dragged them over to the waiting area.

Ive never seen her before. I wonder what happened to Audrey? I asked Bette settling in the chair.
Huh?

I chanced a look at Evan before talking to Bette. She was in her own world.

Babe, you have to snap out of it. If evan sees that youre worried, that will only make her more apprehensive toward the doctor, I whispered.

Bette also chanced a look at Evan.

Okay. Okay. Ill focus. Im focusing, Bette sighed and then taking a deep breathe.
Well, look whos here to see me, Dr. Dowling greeted, come in ladies, he said.

The three of us followed him.

*****

My records show that it isnt time for a check up. So what can I help you with today?

Not everyone answered at once.

Well, Dr. Dowling, um… I dont know whether its Evan going through adolescence or just having the shift in the mother-daughter relationship but recently her mood swings are becoming out of hand, I spoke up.
Evan? Dr. Dowling asked of her.

She avoided eye contact.
Bette? he shifted his question.
Last night there was a huge blow up and after I talked to her about it and shes worried that shes bipolar…like her father.

I saw Evan drop her head in embarrassment. I held her hand.

Oh… is this what you think is happening, Evan?
Yeah, she whispered.
I think that youre just going through the growing pains of becoming an adult. But if you think that is what is happening, there are a few test that we can do to see if your chemical balance is off. A CAT scan to see if there are any changes in the brain, he informed us.
Okay, she whispered again.
Well… we cant do all that today but I can give you a referral to a imagining and x-ray center that can perform the CAT scan for you. Right now, I can draw some blood and send it to the lab for various test to get your hormone levels. Okay? he asked addressing Evan.

She still hadnt made eye contact.

Okay, she said.
Evan, sweetie, look at me.

She finally looked at him.

I know that youre scared but whatever it is, we can treat it. It will be okay. It may be nothing at all, like Tina said, he smiled.