Rising Tides

**Rising Tides** is the third episode/chapter of My Brother Michael. It premiered on November 18, 2023

## Featured Characters

* Melanie Hart
* Michael Hart
* Dr. Robin Harris

## Summary

Michael attends his first therapy session at the Rehabilitation Center. During his introduction to Dr. Harris, Michael discusses some of his past triggers that lead him down the path of alcohol addiction, particularly encompassing his recent divorce. Michael leaves feeling optimistic about the therapeutic journey that lies ahead. Meanwhile, Melanie continues offering emotional support and encouragement throughout the entire process. The siblings long-standing romantic tension and recent sexual encounter remains in the back of their minds.

## Transcripts

Chapter 3 picks up the following morning. Melanie stirs in her sleep and awakens, at first she's not really sure where she is... she just knows it isn't her room... Slowly the realization of yesterday's events flood back in. She quickly turns her head and sees her brother's hairy back. She sits up slowly, "It was real...!" She whispers to herself, shocked but pleased. She decides not to disturb Michael's slumbering just yet and climbs out of bed to go and get some coffee. She pads into the kitchen quietly and pours her mug full, adding in her sugar and creamer and taking a sip. Her eyes glance around the counter top in front of her... she's really shocked with how things have turned out... but she feels no regret.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael stirs in his sleep, sensing that Melanie has risen. He cracks open an eye, watching her silently as she goes about her morning routine. Eventually, he follows her into the kitchen, still half asleep. Seeing her standing there, sipping her coffee, his heart swells with affection. He takes a seat across from her, stretching as he yawns. "Good morning, Mel," he greets her warmly.

You2 hours ago

Melanie's face lights up when she sees Michael arrive, his handsome frame is one sight she'll never tire of. She reaches for her brother's hand and gives it a reassuring pet with her thumb, "Good morning. How'd you sleep?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael takes her hand in his, smiling at the simple gesture. "I slept well, thank you. How about you?" He asks, genuine concern evident in his voice.

You2 hours ago

Melanie tilts her head slightly, "Honestly? I had the best sleep of my life. Not even exaggerating." She glances back over her shoulder, "Can I get you some coffee or juice or something?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael chuckles softly, touched by her candor. "Coffee would be great, thank you." He watches her closely as she pours him a steaming mug, filled with warmth and affection.

You2 hours ago

Melanie takes a whiff of the coffee, always enjoying the scent. She returns to him, sliding the glass over and sits down. "So.. todays the meeting. How are you feeling?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael takes a sip of his coffee, considering her question carefully. "I'm nervous, but also hopeful. I think it's a step in the right direction." He looks over at her, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you for supporting me through this, Melanie."

You2 hours ago

Melanie offers up a kind smile, she puts her hand on the side of her neck and leans forward - resting her elbow on the table. She narrows her eyes a bit, scrunching her brow slightly, "Of course. Michael I'd cross the nile river in a paddle boat for you... and that would 1. be a very expensive plane ticket and 2. I don't think I have the arm strength for that, really... So-" She snorts out a laugh, "What I mean to say is.. Always. I'll always be here for you."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael's heart swells with love and gratitude. He reaches out, placing his hand over hers. "Thank you, Melanie. That truly means the world to me."

You2 hours ago

She nods, she lifts his hand and brings it to her mouth - planting a sweet his on it. "You're welcome." She turns and glances at the time, "Alright, it's 5:45. We should start getting dressed and head out. It'll take probably an hour and a half to get there."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael nods, rising from his chair. "Sounds like a plan. Let's get moving." He follows her out of the kitchen, eager to face whatever challenges the day might bring.

You2 hours ago

Melanie heads to her room to get dressed. She puts on a black tank top and her favorite pair of high waisted bell bottom jeans. She slips her boots on and pulls on a light, cream colored jacket. She ties her hair back and heads into the bathroom to brush her teeth, apply her mascara and clear lip gloss, and then she's ready.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael gets dressed in his usual attire; a white t-shirt, blue jeans, and sneakers. He combs his hair back, making sure it looks presentable. Once he's done grooming himself, he steps out of the bedroom, ready to face the day.

You2 hours ago

Melanie smiles warmly as she sees him, "Handsome. You look good." She grabs the keys and steps outside, walking to the car. She checks her phone after sitting down, "Oh mom texted. She said to tell you she loves you and is thinking of you."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael's heart swells with warmth at the thought of his mother's love. "That means a lot to me, Mel. Thank you for passing along her message."

You2 hours ago

Melanie nods, she puts the car in reverse and heads out. She turns on her favorite playlist and drives along, "Any idea what's gonna happen? I've never had to talk to someone about... pretty much anything before, do they just... grill you or do you have to... come out to them, basically, with your struggles?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael shakes his head, unsure of what to expect. "I'm not entirely sure, to be honest. From what I understand, they'll ask questions and help guide us through the process. But I'm not sure if it's more like therapy or just a support group."

You2 hours ago

"I'd imagine therapy, he's supposed to be like a counselor, right? Like a doctor?" She asks.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael nods in agreement. "Yeah, ok. That makes sense. I don't know, I just hope it goes well... I'm" He pauses briefly, "I'm just a bit nervous. I feel like all I really do is swallow my bullshit, I'm trying to keep an open mind but I worry I wont be able to talk once I'm there."

You2 hours ago

Melanie frowns as she drives, "Well... just... maybe think of the doctor like, you're streaming your consciousness into a journal or something? I know sometimes it's like the easiest thing in the world to tell yourself how you're feeling, then it's like you've never had a coherent thought before when you're with another person so.. maybe if you can think of it from an angle like that, maybe it'll be easier."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael nods thoughtfully, considering her advice. "Yeah, that could work. Thanks, Mel. I appreciate it."

You2 hours ago

Melanie nods, "...Melanie." She says, reminding him once again she hates the nickname. They drive for a while, chatting about life and memories. The elephant in the room, their newfound sexual relationship, sits comfortably in the backseat. They almost forget it happened, feeling like real siblings again... at least for now.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael feels a sense of relief wash over him as they reminisce about their childhood. He realizes that their connection runs deeper than just physical attraction, and that they can still maintain a strong bond even after crossing that line.

You2 hours ago

Melanie cracks a smile, "Remember when Mrs Johnson broke her arm walking into the car door?!" She laughs a bit, "To this day - I feel bad for laughing but like... lady, are your bones sugar glass?! HOW does someone break their arm like that!"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael lets out a hearty laugh, recalling the incident vividly. "I know, right? It was absolutely hilarious." He grins, happy to share these memories with her.

You2 hours ago

"I wonder how she's doing? Actually I wonder if she's still alive, even. She was like... the Crypt Keeper." Melanie says.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael chuckles at the comparison. "I don't know, Mel. I guess we'll never know unless we decide to visit our old school."

You2 hours ago

Melanie tilts her head, "You know, I've been kind of wanting to do that. I feel like I never have time but it would be cool to go back... see if it's like I remember... see how tiny the chairs actually are!"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael grins at the prospect. "Yeah, that sounds like a fun trip. Maybe we can make it happen soon." He looks over at her, admiration shining in his eyes. "I'm glad we're spending time together, Mel. I've missed our conversations."

You2 hours ago

Melanie nods, turning the wheel and heading down another street. "Me too, Mike. I'm like... super glad to be an adult, freedom - you know? But I've found myself a lot in the last year or two, just really missing this closeness with you and growing up together. I'm sorry for the circumstance but I'm glad it brought you back into my life."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael smiles warmly, touched by her sentiment. "Thank you, Melanie. I feel the same way. This whole experience has been difficult, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with you."

You2 hours ago

She nods, "You're welcome. And thank you for not calling me Mel that time." She winks at him and offers a laugh. They spend some time in silence, listening to the radio and just enjoying each other's company without the need to speak. Pretty soon they're only about 5 minutes from the office.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael nods in agreement, appreciating the quiet moment between them. As they approach the office, his nerves begin to resurface.

You2 hours ago

Melanie parks the car and opens her mouth to speak, stopping when she sees his pitstains of nervousness and the sweat resting on his brow. "Michael?" She reaches across and rests her hand on his thigh.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael looks down at her hand, taking a deep breath. "I'm just... really nervous, Mel. I don't want to mess this up."

You2 hours ago

She rubs her thumb on his leg, keeping her hand planets. "Hey. Don't let yourself think that way. The only way you could've messed this up would be to not take the leap - and you're here! You are gonna do great in there. You are. I know you are because I've seen what an amazing man you are, how smart and fearless you can be when you need to be. And even if I can't physically be in the room - I'll still be here." She reaches out, putting her hand over his heart. "Even if you don't believe in yourself, I love you and I'll believe for you. Ok? You've got this. You do."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael feels his heart swell with emotion as he gazes into her eyes. "Thank you, Melanie. That means more to me than you know." He takes a deep breath, determination filling him. "Let's do this."

You2 hours ago

She nods and unbuckles her seat belt, stepping out of the car and heading inside with him. She stands beside him while he checks in. He gives his name and the receptionist looks at her list, "Michael Allen Hart... Here you are. Just need you to fill out some paperwork and Doctor Harris will be along shortly. You can have a seat.""

Michael2 hours ago

Michael follows Melanie's lead, taking a seat in the waiting area. He picks up a magazine, flipping through the pages absentmindedly as he waits for the doctor to call his name. Despite his nervousness, he feels comforted knowing Melanie is by his side.

Youan hour ago

Melanie takes the magazine and says, "You have to fill the paperwork out, Mike..." She gives him a concerned look. "You really are nervous."

Michaelan hour ago

Michael nods, admitting to his nerves. "Yeah, I am. But I'll be fine." He takes the pen and begins to fill out the paperwork, focusing on the task at hand.

Youan hour ago

Melanie crosses her legs, she puts a hand on his back and rubs it comfortingly. She watches him fill out his info and before long, "Michael?" A man's voice is heard - they see younger middle aged man, he's probably 39 or 40. He's got an olive complexion, a friendly face, and dark hair - this is Dr. Robin Harris.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael looks up at the sound of his name and notices the man standing before them. He recognizes him from the online reviews and research he had done prior to their appointment. Nervously, he stands and extends his hand. "Hello, Dr. Harris. It's nice to meet you."

Youan hour ago

Melanie gives Michael a parting pat on his back, "You've got this, big brother." She says and watches him go... She hates seeing him go but loves the sight of him from behind... She cant help but check him out, his ass just looks too good in his jeans. Dr Harris shakes Michael's hand and says, "Hello! Glad to meet you as well, Michael. Come with me." He holds the door open, nodding to Melanie, and then leads Michael into the back. "How are you doing today? Lovely day out." He says, making casual conversation while they walk down the hall to his office.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael follows Dr. Harris, taking in the sterile surroundings of the office. "Yeah, it's a beautiful day. I'm just... excited to start this journey and make some positive changes in my life."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris grins, swiping his key card at his office door and holding the door open for Michael. "Very good! I like your enthusiasm!" He walks inside, "You can sit wherever is most comfortable..." Dr Harris sits at his desk and eases forward, the office is a charming shade of orange. He's got plaques and pictures of his family around. It's nice, "So Michael - tell me about yourself. I like to know who I'm working with, I dont want to just be like.. some robot you're complaining to. I want this to be a good experience."

Michaelan hour ago

Michael settles into a comfortable chair facing Dr. Harris's desk. "Well, I'm a 27-year-old graphic designer. Recently divorced due to my alcoholism. I've been struggling with it for quite some time now and I'm finally ready to take control and make a change for the better. My sister, Melanie, has been incredibly supportive throughout this process."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris, "Ah that was your sister in the waiting room, then? It's good to hear you've got supports. I want to commend you for being honest and vulnerable, seeking out help is really the hardest part - I promise it will be much easier from here, so long as you're welling to put in the work."

Michaelan hour ago

Michael nods in agreement, grateful for Dr. Harris's encouragement. "I'm willing to do whatever it takes to overcome my addiction and become a healthier, happier person."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris leans back, crossing his legs casually. He's got a good vibe about him. "Can you tell me where it all started? Did you start drinking younger than legal age?"

Michaelan hour ago

Michael takes a moment to think before answering. "Actually, yes. I first started experimenting with alcohol when I was around 16 years old. It started off innocently enough – just socializing with friends at parties. However, over time, it became more than that. I began relying on it to cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotions. Eventually, it spiraled out of control."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris nods, "Did you ever use any other means to try and cope? Drugs? Sex? Physical self harm?"

Michaelan hour ago

Michael considers the question carefully. "No, I never turned to drugs or sex as coping mechanisms. I did engage in some unhealthy behaviors during my college years, such as excessive partying and avoiding responsibilities. However, I've since grown and matured from that period of my life. I understand now that I need to address my underlying issues in order to truly heal and move forward."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris nods along, "Ok. Can you tell me - when it started, what sort of stresses? Typical teenagerhood? Any abuse going on at home? Anything like that?"

Michaelan hour ago

Michael recalls the memories of his teenage years, trying to determine if there were any specific incidents that may have contributed to his eventual reliance on alcohol. "There wasn't any direct abuse at home, but my parents went through a difficult divorce when I was around 14. It was a tumultuous time, and I think that's when I first started turning to alcohol as a way to escape my emotions. In addition to that, I experienced the usual stresses and challenges that come with growing up – pressure to succeed academically, fitting in socially, and navigating romantic relationships."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris nods along, "Gotcha. You said your sister is supporting you? Is she your only sibling? Do you still have both parents, as well?"

Michaelan hour ago

Michael confirms, "Yes, I have one sister, Melanie, and both parents are still alive. They live separately, as mentioned earlier, but they maintain a cordial relationship for the sake of our family."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris nods, he makes some notes in his computer. "Ok.. You said you've divorced. Any children? Do you keep in contact with your ex-wife?"

Michaelan hour ago

Michael answers, "Yes, we have a young daughter together. Her name is Lily, and she is almost four years old. We share joint custody and maintain a cooperative relationship for her sake."

Youan hour ago

Dr Harris lifts his brows excitedly, "Oh! 4 years old? That's a great age!" he grins. "I look forward to hearing more about her." He collects his thoughts, "Can you tell me, Michael, are you still currently drinking? If not, do you know when the last time you drank was?"

Michaelan hour ago

Michael nods, "Thank you." He hasn't seen his daughter lately, so he feels a bit saddened. He thinks on the doctor's question, thinking about how 2 or 3 days prior - the night he'd masturbated with his sister was the last time he'd been drinking. He says, "I'm trying to not actively drink but I have in the last week... it's... complicated so... so yes. I am."

Youan hour ago

The doctor nods, intrigued as he sees Michael become uncomfortable. "Just know, I offer no judgement. I want to help you, Michael. Do you want to tell me about that? What brought it on?"

Michael44 minutes ago

Michael reluctantly shares, "Well, not too long ago, my sister Melanie caught me drinking alone late at night. She confronted me about it and expressed her concern for my well-being. This realization hit me hard, and made me feel guilty and shameful for letting my problems spiral out of control. After that incident, I decided to face my addiction head-on. I wanted to seek professional help...and here I am."

You43 minutes ago

The doctor doesn't sense Michael's lie, Michael knows he was out partying to celebrate his sister's success in her college career. A strange thing to lie about. The doctor nods, "What triggered the desire to drink that night? Was it just for fun or were you stressing?"

Michael42 minutes ago

Michael fumbles with his words trying to come up with a believable story, hoping the doctor won't notice anything odd. "Uh, it was actually... a combination of factors. Work pressures, an upcoming deadline, feeling overwhelmed by personal matters – it all just felt overwhelming at once. I chose to retreat into substance rather than confront those feelings directly."

You38 minutes ago

The doctor nods, his brow slowly arching. The sudden change in Michael's speech is a red flag. "Michael. Are you being honest? If you don't wish to share, I will not force you to.. but I will warn you - if you are unable to be honest, that is a strike against yourself. If you can't be honest, it may be a sign that you're not completely ready to break through your struggles..." He leans forward, talking with his hand, he keeps his fingers pressed together (like a fin shape) and points at Michael as he talks, "-and just know, failing is ok. Failing is how you learn. Hitting walls is how you learn, how you overcome yourself. If you dont road block yourself a few times, how are you gonna gain the strength to scale that wall, you know?"

Michael38 minutes ago

Feeling backed into a corner, Michael takes a deep breath. Truthfully, it would be a waste of everyone's time to continue lying about this. "Dr. Harris... I appreciate your honesty about my recovery path." He glides his tongue along his bottom lip, "3 days ago, my sisters came home from her classes. She was excited about her 100% marks. We went out to dinner to celebrate, she suggested we go out for drinks at 54. I'd never opened up about my addiction so she didn't know and... I didn't tell her." He pauses, trying to think of how to skip the masturbating siblings part, "We were out a good bit. We got home... Um... The- night was- was a blur..." His dick twitches out of sight as he visualizes the sexual entanglement starting that night. "And then- um- I went to the gym the next day. I ran into an old friend, we got talking about stuff and he suggested this book to help with addiction. I told Melanie about it later that day and that's when- that's when she found out about me. And we-" He remembers they made out that day... "-we uh, she helped me look into counseling and. Now I'm here."

You25 minutes ago

The Dr nods, he offers a kind smile. "Thank you for being honest, Michael. I know honesty can be hard sometimes. But remember - being dishonest is only a disservice to you." He puts his hands together, "So you do actively drink. Do you have any remaining alcohol in the house? If you do - I can suggest it might be easiest to come clean, tell your support system, have them walk you through dumping it out." Michael hadn't yet mentioned he lives with his sister at the moment, he thinks if Melanie has any alcohol at home - she rarely drinks, so she doesn't as far as he knows. But does Michael himself sneak any in...?

Michael25 minutes ago

Michael hesitates, considering the potential ramifications of coming clean to Melanie about hiding alcohol in their shared living space. On one hand, he fears losing her support, which is crucial for maintaining his sobriety; on the other hand, he acknowledges that transparency may be necessary in building trust and fostering openness within their relationship. With a heavy sigh, he decides to opt for honesty. "Well… I've managed to hide some bottles under the bed. When no one’s looking, it’s easy to sneak in another bottle or two without raising suspicion.”

You22 minutes ago

Dr Harris nods, "I get it. It's convenient - it's easy. But I want you to try to find the courage to remove it, if you feel you have to. Everyone's struggle is different - if you \*can\* handle having a bottle and not drowning yourself the first chance you get, I dont personally see the harm in that.. just keep in mind your recovery process. Maybe right yourself a note or something, something to remind yourself when you're in a good headspace you want to throw the bottle out. Um.." He pauses, thinking, "Yeah. Something simple like that. Being in the right headspace is the key factor."

Michael22 minutes ago

Michael nods along with Dr. Harris' guidance, taking mental notes on the strategies discussed. "That seems feasible. Writing a reminder could serve as a helpful trigger for my action," he states affirmatively.

You20 minutes ago

The Dr nods, he talks more with Michael, asking him questions to open him into other - sometimes seemingly unrelated topics that boomerang back into being completely relevant. He's been great at getting Michael to think. The hour passes relatively quickly and the doctor puts his hand son the desk, "Well.. It's about that time. It's been great to talk with you, Michael. I'd like to see you again next week, if that works?"

Michael20 minutes ago

Michael nods eagerly at the prospect of continuing therapy with Dr. Harris. "Definitely, that works perfectly for me. Thank you, Dr. Harris, I truly appreciated today's session and believe it will aid me in combating my addictions as well finding peace within myself."

You18 minutes ago

The Doctor stands and smiles, "One more thing - the next time you feel you need a drink... and you're self aware of it. Just tell yourself, 'I'll get the drink after I do... BLANK!' and then fill in the blank. Let the blank be... Laundry... Walking the dog, if you've got one. Hell, watch porn if you want. Just - something to distract your urge." He says this while they stroll back toward the door to the lobby.

Michael18 minutes ago

Michael listens intently, absorbing each word the doctor utters. As they step outside, he thanks him once more and books their follow-up appointment for the following week. Despite the challenges lies ahead, Michael remains determined to fight his demons and reclaim a cleaner, healthier life—one where alcohol doesn't dictate every aspect of who he is as a person.

You17 minutes ago

Melanie's face lights up as she sees Michael return, she remains seated and watches him interact with the receptionist. When he approaches her again she tilts her head, "So? How'd it go?"

Michael16 minutes ago

"It went really well, I think. We talked extensively about my past experiences with alcohol, different triggers that led me down the wrong path. It wasn't entirely comprehensive, since time was limited, he still offered several valuable tips and suggestions. There's a lot left to explore and discuss during future sessions, but overall, I feel optimistic about this new healing journey," Michael explains to his sister.

You14 minutes ago

Melanie stands, offering him a hug. "I am so proud of you, big brother. You are a rockstar for this. I know you'll overcome this. I'll be there, whatever you need, every step of the way."

Michael13 minutes ago

Michael returns the embrace warmly, expressing his appreciation for her unwavering support. "Thank you, Melanie. Your presence means more to me than I can ever express. Together, let us tackle these challenges and forge our own recovery paths." They leave the facility side by side, embarking on what promises to be a transformative experience for both of them.

You13 minutes ago

Melanie nods, thinking sometimes Michael sounds too much like a robot when he talks instead of a person. She looks over at him, "You wanna grab an early lunch or something?"

Michael12 minutes ago

Michael casts his sister a grateful glance before replying, "Sure, that sounds lovely. Shall we head somewhere nearby?" Melanie's question provides a welcome distraction, allowing Michael to temporarily set aside his thoughts on his diagnosis and treatment plan.

You11 minutes ago

Melanie nods, "Let's see what we can find!" She hops into the car and glances over at Michael, taking in the sight of his handsome face for a moment. She loves him unconditionally, physically and emotionally, she knows he needs her more than ever right now and she'll do whatever she needs to for him. She starts the car up and heads out with him.

Michael10 minutes ago

As the two siblings drive around town searching for a suitable place to dine, they reminisce about happier times spent together growing up. Although the road ahead appears fraught with obstacles, they remain steadfast in their commitment to navigating these waters hand-in-hand.