Elliot visited for dinner the following week.
He's doing better and has returned to Columbia. The therapy was helping him process the library attack.
"I've decided to study criminal psychology," he announced over Chinese food.
"Really?" I was surprised. "Why?"
"To understand people like Diane and to prevent future threats. It's a logical application of my traumatic experience."
Only Elliot would phrase it that way.
"I'm proud of you," I tell him.
"Thank you. The field is statistically underfunded but intellectually stimulating." He pauses. "Also, my therapist said converting trauma into purpose is 'healthy coping.' So I'm coping healthily."
Tony hides his smile. "Good. The world needs more criminal psychologists."
"Agreed. Especially since you two keep encountering criminals."
We all laugh even though it's not really funny.
Susan hosts a dinner party the following Saturday.
Small gathering. Tony, me, Bella, David (her boyfriend), Susan, and Thomas.
