OLIVIA No.
Olivia sobs, shaking. Marco pulls her into an embrace that’s both protective and unsure.
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INT. THERAPIST’S OFFICE — DAY (ONE WEEK LATER) aniphobia script
They unpack in silence. Marco takes out fresh basil; Olivia’s hands twitch when he reaches for a pepper. A CRASH from the kitchen—Marco looks, then laughs nervously.
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DR. NAVAS Gradual exposure with control. Re-association. We’ll set small, safe steps—photos, videos, then being in a room with a calm dog on a leash when you’re ready. And we’ll slow it down until your body can learn a different response. OLIVIA No
MARCO Thought you might like company. And—and I promised Leo a walk, but he’s crashed at my place. So no dog, I swear.
INT. OLIVIA’S MIND — SURREAL — NIGHT
MARCO (soft) You two look happy.
DR. NAVAS Aniphobia isn’t uncommon after a trauma involving animals. It’s not a moral failing. It’s your nervous system trying to keep you safe.
MARCO Maybe it’s—uh—plumbing?