Steven Assanti reminds me of Machiavelli. He's a liar, bully and as you explain his coquettish reactions are disturbing. He's a predisposed master manipulator who needs therapy. The best manipulators can tell when you're at your wits end, and just at the moment you can't take anymore, they back off. Steven backed off when he realized how upset Dr. Now was. Steven's father should treat Steven the same way Dr. Now is treating him.