The psychologist, Bethany Hackett, observed Bradley as he fell into deep contemplation in response to her words.
Without disturbing him, Bethany allowed Bradley the space to ponder the question at hand.
After a prolonged silence, Bradley slowly raised his gaze to meet Bethany's. "I hope she's alive."
Bethany's words had prompted Bradley to seriously consider the question. He vividly remembered the car plummeting off the cliff, the engulfing flames, and Esther being pushed into the incinerator. All signs pointed to Esther being dead.
Nevertheless, Bradley persisted in the search, convincing himself that she was still alive.
"Let me ask you again. Do you think she's alive because you believe it will alleviate your guilt?"
Bradley looked at Bethany and shook his head. "No. She's a cunning woman who's good at acting."
Bethany maintained a gentle gaze on Bradley until his voice gradually subsided.
"Do I have a psychological disorder?" he asked.
With understanding, Bethany replied, "In this day and age, having a psychological disorder is not something shameful. If you cooperate with the treatment, you can recover quickly."
"How do I get treated?"
Bethany explained, "The first step in treatment is accepting reality."
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: My Husband Wants Me Dead (Esther and Bradley)
don't read at all. horrible story, makes me sick....