"What changed?" Dr. Hall inquired, noticing a deviation in the pattern of Ricardo's previous actions.
"Isn't it clear?" Ricardo replied, a subtle smile touching his lips. "It was her influence."
It took a moment for Dr. Hall to understand his meaning. "Jane Reinhart?"
"Yes," Ricardo affirmed, turning his gaze out the window. "She once said how routine numbs us, that drastic change is essential for progress."
"That explains Margot Brooks. But what about your mother?" Dr. Hall asked cautiously, broaching the subject with sensitivity. "She inflicted great harm on you during your childhood. Why did you wait until that night to act?"
