Contents
Part Two — Chapter Twelve
Overview
Theo meets Gabriel’s brother, Max, whose guarded professionalism gives way to open hatred of Alicia and claims of her violent moods and a prior suicide attempt after her father’s death. Max’s wife, Tanya, discreetly redirects Theo to Alicia’s cousin Paul, hinting at a crucial incident the night after an accident.
Summary
Theo visits lawyer Max Berenson. Max begins courteously but keeps emotional distance, contrasting himself with his late brother Gabriel. He reveals he was adopted and grew up overshadowed by Gabriel, whose charisma and talent dominated the family.
When Theo asks about Alicia, Max’s demeanor hardens. He refuses gossip but admits he hated Alicia, blaming her for destroying Gabriel and his own life. Switching between brother and lawyer, Max asserts Alicia had mood swings and violent rages, broke things, and threatened Gabriel. He says she attempted suicide years earlier, after her father died, and regrets not insisting on treatment.
As the meeting ends, Max mentions he recently married his receptionist, Tanya, and that Gabriel’s death brought them together. Theo leaves, noting Tanya’s large diamond and anxious manner.
Outside Max’s presence, Tanya urgently advises Theo to visit Alicia’s cousin Paul in Cambridge, telling him to ask about Alicia and “the night after the accident,” before falling silent when Max reappears. Theo senses Tanya is afraid of Max and registers a new investigative lead.
Who Appears
- Theo FaberPsychotherapist investigating Alicia; interviews Max, learns of Alicia’s alleged rages and prior overdose, and receives Tanya’s lead about cousin Paul.
- Max BerensonGabriel’s brother and lawyer; admits hating Alicia, claims she was volatile, reveals her past suicide attempt, and that he was adopted.
- Tanya BerensonMax’s wife and receptionist; quietly urges Theo to see cousin Paul about the night after an accident, appears nervous around Max.