Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor

A driven, intelligent therapist who seeks professional fulfillment while navigating a traditional marriage. Her curiosity and longing for excitement push her toward a dangerous, transformative path with Harley. As events unfold, she grapples with loyalty, desire, and the consequences of choices on her family and faith.

Judith’s husband, loyal and protective, yet increasingly challenged by jealousy and the pressures of a conventional marriage. He offers support and stability but is emotionally damaged by the unraveling affair. His journey centers on grappling with trust, heartbreak, and the limits of forgiveness.

A charming, wealthy software entrepreneur who seduces Judith to disrupt her marriage and pursue his own ambitions. He embodies manipulation and risk-taking, valuing excitement and power over lasting commitment. His presence accelerates Judith’s transformation and exposes the fragility of her choices.

Judith’s mother, a devout, traditional churchgoer who anchors the family with moral expectations. She disapproves of Judith’s affair and embodies the pressure to maintain appearances and family cohesion. Her influence highlights the tension between faith, duty, and personal desire.

Founder of the dating/ matchmaking business where Judith works; pragmatic, stylish, and sometimes ruthless in business. She becomes a critical gatekeeper who both empowers and tempts Judith, ultimately signaling limits and consequences in the workplace.

Janice’s personal secretary who belittles Judith for her style and status, illustrating workplace power dynamics and bias. Her attitude reflects the competitive, judgmental climate surrounding Judith’s ambitions.

Brice’s associate at the store who reveals a perilous past; she later discloses her HIV-positive status, adding depth to the narrative’s confrontation with stigma and resilience. Her experiences intersect with Judith and Brice’s story in a pivotal way.

The elderly owner of the pharmacy who hires Melinda and shapes the couple’s early professional environment. Her presence grounds the vignettes in a small, interwoven community where personal and business matters collide.