Contents
Part Two — Chapter Five
Overview
In the aftermath of Alicia’s assault, Theo is treated by Yuri and summoned to a tense meeting. Stephanie challenges his judgment, Christian blames the reduced medication, and Indira supports Theo’s psychodynamic view. Diomedes overrules objections, authorizing Theo to continue with Alicia for six weeks, raising the stakes and urgency.
Summary
Yuri treats Theo’s scratches and bruised throat after Alicia’s sudden assault, urging caution as Theo steadies himself. Despite the pain, Theo insists he is fine and heads to a meeting with Diomedes, Stephanie, Christian, and Indira.
In the meeting, Stephanie demands to know why Theo was alone with Alicia. Theo accepts responsibility, while Diomedes downplays the incident’s severity and asks Theo to explain. Theo frames Alicia’s violence as communication born of pain and desperation, contrasting sharply with Christian’s view that the attack stems from reduced medication and psychosis.
Indira supports Theo, arguing Alicia is already “speaking” through him as an advocate. Diomedes, mindful of Alicia’s profile and the Grove’s precarious future, probes for timelines. Theo says meaningful progress cannot be guaranteed quickly.
Diomedes imposes a six-week window under his supervision, overruling Stephanie’s objections. Christian predicts failure and leaves, while Stephanie departs angry. The decision steels Theo’s determination to reach Alicia despite institutional resistance and limited time.
Who Appears
- Theo FaberPsychotherapist injured by Alicia; defends her attack as communication and accepts a six-week mandate to engage her.
- Professor DiomedesClinical director; downplays the incident, backs Theo’s approach, and authorizes six weeks under his supervision.
- StephanieUnit manager; condemns Theo’s decision to be alone with Alicia and opposes continuing therapy, overruled by Diomedes.
- ChristianPsychiatrist; attributes the attack to reduced meds, dismisses psychodynamic interpretation, predicts Theo will fail.
- IndiraTherapist colleague; supports Theo, asserting Alicia is communicating through him.
- YuriNurse; treats Theo’s injuries, regrets leaving him alone, and monitors his condition.