Shameless (The Therapist #2), стр. 52

“Well, I think we’ve covered everything I needed to work my way through,” Tessa says. “Plus, I’m at a place in my life where I don't want to be doing things that are still related to a version of me that no longer exists. I started coming here with Brandon so we could work on our relationship. When he dumped me, I kept coming because I was dealing with remnants of feelings and issues that were directly linked to him. Those remnants are gone now, and I don't want to keep being reminded of them week after week, although I like coming to talk to you. Lastly, I’ve met someone else, and we don't need therapy. I’m not ridiculing anyone who does need to see a therapist, but Liam and I don’t, and hopefully we never will.”

Tessa giggles, and I smile with her while I nod my head.

“I couldn't have said it better myself, Tessa,” I say. “I agree with you one hundred percent. You're night and day different from when we met, and I think you're past the issues that first brought you here. I’m also proud to hear you say that you met someone else. Not to get into your business, but may I ask how things are going so far?”

“His name is Liam Gardner, and he's a lawyer,” Tessa says, her face beaming with pride. “He just opened up his own law firm downtown, and he’s amazing. He’s thoughtful, brilliant, sexy, confident, and so unbelievably gorgeous. I think what I like about him most, though, is that he believes in me. He motivates me to do what I think is best for me, and he supports my decisions. Even more so, he wants to take his time with me.

“I’d be lying if I said I’m unaffected by the fact that we haven't had sex yet, but I’m cool with it. I love that he wants to slow things down and get to know me, and the more time goes by, the more I want him. It’s almost like waiting is foreplay for us right now. I love it. I learn more and more every day, and the more I learn, the more I like him, and the more I like him, the more I want to be with him in every way.”

“So, no sex yet,” I repeat, wondering if Tessa is really okay with this setup.

“Not yet, but it’ll happen soon,” she says, and I don't sense any dissatisfaction in her voice. “It’s like we’re building up this tension, and when it does happen, it’s going to be hot and lustful. Ugh, I can't wait.”

“Lustful. Key word.”

“That’s right,” Tessa says behind a chuckle.

“Well, I think you guys are headed for something special,” I state. “It sounds like you're on the right path, and I’m happy and excited for you. You know what your relationship needs are now, and I think you're strong enough to make sure they're being met by your partner. You're going to do just fine, Tessa. I know it. You made the right decision when you decided to take time to get to know yourself. In fact, I have a little surprise for you.”

“A surprise?”

I get up from my chair and walk over to my desk, where I pull a newspaper clipping from my drawer. I bring it over to Tessa and hand it to her. The smile that overtakes her face is brilliant.

“Oh, my god!” she barks, just before falling into a fit of laughter.

“Consider it a going away present,” I say with a proud smile on my face. “I saw that in the paper a few days ago and thought you'd get a kick out of it. Apparently, American Armpits was being booed off the stage in Philly, and decided to try to fight some people in the audience. All of the band members—including their manager slash producer, Brandon Stills—were arrested and charged with inciting a riot, and disorderly conduct. They also got their asses beaten by some members of the audience before they were locked into their cuffs.”

Tessa and I share a laugh at the expense of her ex, and although it’s probably a bit unethical, I enjoy the moment. Brandon isn't a current patient, so fuck it.

“I just wanted you to see that you definitely made the right decision,” I say after we stop laughing. Tessa’s mouth is still curled into an entertained smile. “Brandon will probably be back in Dover soon, and if you two run into each other, he’ll see that you have moved on and upgraded yourself and your life without him. If he hasn't already realized how much he messed up, he definitely will soon.”

“Wow, that’s so funny. Thanks for showing me this. I mean, I’ll probably throw it in the trash because I don't ever want to think about him again, but I really appreciate this.”

I get up from my seat and take the clipping from Tessa’s hands. I let her watch me ball it up and toss it in the trash can behind my chair before I sit back down. “Done.”

“Well, I really want to thank you for everything, Dr. Colson,” Tessa says. She locks her eyes on me and her face turns serious. “You've been incredible, and I really appreciate all of your support during this chaotic period in my life. You’ve really got a way with words, and you're amazing at making me feel empowered. You're a true feminist, and I think it’s awesome.”

“Feminist? I wouldn't say I'd label myself a feminist. I just think there are a lot of double standards out there that are completely unfair to women. Basically, all I want is for women to be respected and held to the same standards as men. I understand there may be physical differences in size and strength, but morally, ethically, and financially women deserve the same respect as men. To be blunt, men get a pass on a lot of bullshit, and