Rolling his eyes and adopting a condescending tone, Gil explained, “That’s why I have to talk, tell you what’s on my mind. That’s how you get to know me, really know me and who I am. For now, you just have to listen. Oh, and nod occasionally.”
Dr. Vij steadied himself on the edge of the desk with a quavering hand, “I don’t nod. I don’t listen. I look at female anatomy and delivery babies!”
Hands raised in mild protest, Gil replied, “Like I said, doc, not necessary for me.” And with that he lay back down on the couch, “I think it all started the summer I had to start shaving my dad’s back…”
“Get out!” blurted the usually passive and gentile gynecologist, going against generations of subservient propriety.
“Really not good for the therapeutic alliance,” chided Gil. Dr. Vij left the room, retreating to the kitchen, hoping perhaps his wife, lovely, kind, and wise Arpna.
“Okay, doc,” Gil called, “It’s a bit unconventional, but if you can hear from there, I’ll just keep going…about the back hair.”