Contents
Part Two — Chapter Fourteen
Overview
Theo presses Max for details about Alicia’s past overdose and the Berenson wills, learning the attempt was quietly handled by an unnamed doctor and that Gabriel left most of his estate to Max. Max reports Theo, prompting Diomedes to reprimand Theo and redirect him from detective work to therapeutic presence.
Summary
Theo fixates on Max Berenson’s claim that Alicia attempted suicide after her father’s death, noting the absence of any record. He calls Max for clarification, pressing for the treating hospital and doctor. Max reveals Alicia overdosed at home; Gabriel summoned a doctor who agreed to keep it quiet, but Max cannot recall the name.
Shifting topics, Theo asks about Gabriel’s will. Max, suddenly guarded, admits he was the main beneficiary because Alicia had already inherited substantially from her father. Max refuses to discuss Alicia’s will and abruptly ends the call, leaving Theo sensing the matter isn’t over.
Soon after, Diomedes summons Theo. Max has complained, calling Theo’s inquiries harassment. Diomedes, concerned about legal exposure, reprimands Theo and insists all actions remain within the unit and under supervision. He warns Theo against visiting or contacting Alicia’s relations again.
Diomedes counsels Theo to abandon a detective-like approach and instead follow Bion’s principle of “no memory—no desire,” urging a receptive, agenda-free therapeutic stance with Alicia. Theo, angry but chastened, agrees and promises to cease outside probing.
Who Appears
- Theo FaberPsychotherapist; presses Max about Alicia’s overdose and wills, then is reprimanded and redirected by Diomedes.
- Max BerensonGabriel’s brother; reveals hush-up overdose and that he inherited most, then reports Theo for harassment.
- Christian DiomedesClinical director; scolds Theo for external inquiries and urges a Bion-inspired, agenda-free therapeutic approach.
- TanyaMax’s assistant; briefly present during the call as Max departs the office.