Chapter 12 - THE WOMAN WHO CHOSE HER FUTURE
My three-month contract ended in early spring.
Massimo offered to renew it.
For another fifty thousand dollars.
I refused.
He stared.
“Why?”
“Because I need to finish my doctorate.”
He looked at me.
“You can study here.”
I smiled.
“I need to build my own life.”
Massimo was quiet.
Then he nodded.
“I understand.”
I hesitated.
“Do you?”
He looked at me.
“Yes.”
His voice softened.
“You've spent three months teaching me that independence matters.”
I smiled.
“Then I suppose you learned something.”
He laughed.
I stood.
“Your rehabilitation team will continue your care.”
Massimo nodded.
“And you?”
“I'll finish school.”
He looked at me.
“I'm proud of you.”
My eyes filled.
“Thank you.”
I turned to leave.
Then he said:
“Elena.”
I stopped.
He smiled.
“Would you have dinner with me someday?”
I looked at him.
“As your therapist?”
He shook his head.
“No.”
I considered the question.
Then answered carefully.
“Not while I'm responsible for your treatment. We need appropriate professional boundaries.”
Massimo nodded.
“I understand.”
I smiled.
“Then perhaps someday, after enough time has passed and we're both free to make that choice.”
May you like
He smiled back.
“I can wait.”
