Matt slumped into the plush chair across from Dr. Elise, his eyes hollow and shoulders drooping. The office was a sanctuary of soft lighting and gentle scents, designed to soothe, but today it felt like a cage.

"How have you been feeling since the layoff, Matt?" Dr. Elise's voice was calm, almost melodic, as she observed him over her glasses. Her demeanor was always composed, but there was an intensity in her gaze that made him feel seen, truly seen, in a way no one else had managed since he lost his job.

"I... I don't know," Matt sighed, running a hand through his disheveled hair. "It's like every day is just... gray. I can't focus, can't sleep. It's all just spiraling."

Dr. Elise nodded, her expression sympathetic yet professional. "Sometimes, traditional methods aren't enough to break through these barriers. Have you ever considered trying hypnosis? It could help you relax and open up more during our sessions."

Matt frowned, skeptical but desperate. "Hypnosis? I don't know, Dr. Elise. Isn't that kind of... weird?"

She smiled gently, removing her glasses and placing them on the desk. "It's perfectly safe, and it might just be the key to unlocking some of the stress and anxiety that's been holding you back."

After a moment of hesitation, Matt nodded. "Okay, I'll try it."

Dr. Elise's smile widened slightly. "Good. Let's begin." She instructed him to relax, guiding him through deep breaths and visualizations until his body seemed to melt into the chair. Her voice became softer, more rhythmic, weaving through his consciousness like a gentle breeze.

"Now, Matt, listen carefully to my voice. You are completely relaxed, completely safe. With each word I say, you feel more at ease, more open to suggestion..."

As she spoke, Matt felt an odd sense of detachment, his worries drifting away like leaves on a stream. Dr. Elise's voice was a soothing presence, guiding him deeper into relaxation.

"Imagine a door in your mind," she continued, her tone smooth and compelling. "A door that leads to a place of peace and clarity. As I count down from ten, you will feel yourself approaching this door, ready to step through..."

By the time she reached one, Matt was in a trance-like state, his mind pliant and receptive. Dr. Elise leaned forward, her eyes locked onto his. "You are doing wonderfully, Matt. Now, I want you to focus on my voice and follow my instructions without question."

She paused, allowing the silence to deepen before continuing. "When I snap my fingers, you will feel an overwhelming desire to please me, to obey me. Do you understand?"

Matt nodded slowly, his eyes glazed and unfocused.

Dr. Elise snapped her fingers crisply. "Now, stand up and come to me."

Without hesitation, Matt rose from his chair and walked over to her, his movements slow and deliberate. Dr. Elise stood, her height making her presence even more commanding. She reached out, brushing a strand of hair from his forehead, her touch light yet electrifying.

"You find me irresistible, Matt. My touch sends shivers through your body. You want nothing more than to be close to me, to feel my hands on you."