Page 9 of Taken Online
“I don’t wanna say. It’s kinda embarrassing.” He smiles, all shy charm.
The more I stare him down, the more I start to think it’s all a performance.
Look at me, I’m cute and helpless. Be gentle.
Nothing irritates me more than being manipulated, especially by someone who leans on their looks the way Asher does.You're more than that, bambi.
Of course he thinks I’ll fall for it.
I scan his posture again. He’s not uncomfortable. He’s feigning prey. He doesn’t want me to pry.
So I pry.
“If you want me to sign off on your court order, Asher, you’ll need to tell me. Otherwise, I suggest another psychologist.”
His eye twitches. He didn’t like that. But he won’t leave. Not after I called his bluff.
He’ll push back.
“Okay, it’s just… I was in my car and got this overwhelming feeling, you know?” He looks away, all shy again. Manufactured innocence.
“Horny?” I ask, voice flat.
His expression shifts. Annoyed by my lack of warmth.
Knowing what he shares online, I’m not surprised. He’s used to getting his way. Probably uses seduction like a scalpel.
I write it down.
“What the hell are you writing?” he snaps, before quickly softening. “I mean... I haven’t said anything.”
“Of course not.” I smile. He relaxes.
He moves, unzipping his hoodie slightly. Tank top underneath. The necklace on full display. His collarbone.
He catches me looking.
That gives him confidence. He spreads his legs a little. Sinks into the couch.
“Mind if I lie down?” he asks, voice soft. “Mr—Dr. Peterson, sir?”
“Go for it. Peterson is fine.”
He does. Opens his legs a little wider. Hoodie slips open further. His body—tight, lithe—is on full display.
He’s doing this on purpose.
Clinical Notes: Subject attempts covert seduction to deflect from therapy.
“You may continue, Asher.”
He sighs. “It’s kinda hot in here. Could I get a drink?”
I smile, cold. “We have tea and water.”
He bites his lip. “Do you have coffee?”
Clinical Note: Control Issues.
