Contents
Part Four — Chapter Six
Overview
Theo discovers a hidden watcher figure in Alicia’s painting, then deliberately pressures Jean-Felix by revealing Alicia intended to leave his gallery and that she kept a diary. He arranges a meeting with Paul and confronts Max with the diary’s claim of Max’s feelings for Alicia, provoking Max’s hostile reaction.
Theo recognizes escalating risks, especially regarding Max, and prepares to follow Tanya’s cryptic lead about Paul and the night after Alicia’s mother’s accident.
Summary
Theo revisits Jean-Felix’s gallery to study Alicia’s Alcestis and spots a concealed figure of a man lurking in the painting’s shadows, suggesting a watcher. When Jean-Felix confronts him, Theo withholds the discovery but provokes him by revealing Alicia planned to leave the gallery, citing her diary.
Jean-Felix reacts defensively, threatens legal action, and is stunned to learn of the diary. Theo departs, satisfied to observe how Jean-Felix will respond to the pressure.
On the way to Cambridge, Theo calls Paul Rose and arranges to meet at the White Bear pub, avoiding another encounter with Lydia. He implies the diary contains new insights he wants to discuss in person.
Theo then calls Max Berenson. Despite prior complaints, Theo informs Max that Alicia’s journal describes Max’s romantic feelings for her. Max abruptly hangs up, revealing agitation and confirming Theo’s bait has landed.
Theo reflects on Max’s intimidating presence and recalls Tanya’s fearful deference and her hint to ask Paul about the night after Alicia’s mother’s fatal accident. Theo resolves to proceed carefully, recognizing Max as a genuine threat.
Who Appears
- Theo FaberPsychotherapist; examines Alcestis, notices a hidden watcher, provokes Jean-Felix, arranges to meet Paul, and baits Max using Alicia’s diary.
- Jean-Felix MartinAlicia’s gallerist; defensive and threatened when Theo reveals Alicia planned to leave and had kept a diary.
- Max BerensonGabriel’s brother; hangs up after Theo cites the diary’s claim he had feelings for Alicia; perceived as intimidating.
- Paul RoseAlicia’s cousin; agrees to meet Theo at the White Bear to discuss the diary, wary of Lydia.
- TanyaMax’s assistant; tense on the call; her past warning reinforces Theo’s caution about Max and a lead involving Paul.
- Alicia BerensonCentral subject; her painting suggests a hidden watcher, and her diary fuels confrontations with Jean-Felix and Max.