“Sylvia and Jacob Rabinowitz have been married for fifty-two years,” Bennett said as she put back the charts. “They diagnosed Jacob with Alzheimer’s seven years ago, and Sylvia began suffering from the same horrible disease shortly after that. They have four children, nine grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, none of whom have visited in over a year. Sylvia and Jacob do not speak. They do not acknowledge. They’re fed through tubes, and they lie in their beds, dressed like infants. Their heads are empty of sound thoughts, and they’re imprisoned in a terminal fog they cannot escape from. And tonight, you and I are going to set them free.

“Sylvia is in there,” Bennett said, pointing to the door nearest Ruby. “You are to be compassionate. You are to be gentle, and you are to show her the utmost respect. Do you understand?”

“Yes,” Ruby whispered.

“When she’s gone, use your saliva to seal the wounds. I’ll meet you right here after I do the same for her husband.”

Without saying a word, Bennett pushed open the door and walked into Jacob Rabinowitz’s room.

Chapter Forty-Three

At the same time Bennett and Ruby were putting Sylvia and Jacob to rest, across town, Angelique was heading up the stairs in Max’s house, only to stop halfway when she saw Gus and his daughters descending. “I was just coming to check on you. Is everything all right?”

“Yeah, everything’s fine,” Gus said, starting down. “Between the excitement and the wine you brought Cathleen, she finally fell asleep alongside the boys, but the girls and I are still a little wound up. I remembered what Max said about needing anything to drink or eat, so we thought maybe we’d raid a fridge or something before hitting the hay. I know it’s getting late, though, and we don’t want to inconvenience anyone so—”

“It’s no inconvenience at all,” Angelique said, smiling. “What would you like? Sandwiches? Snacks? I’m sure we could even round up a four-course meal if you’re hungry enough.”

“No, we’re just looking for something light. Anything will do,” Gus said. “But I sure could go for something a little stronger than wine. It’s been one hell of a night.”

“Then I know exactly where I need to take you before I check with the kitchen staff,” Angelique said, waving them to join her. “Follow me.”

When they reached Max’s study, Angelique tapped on the door before walking inside. “Max, your guests are looking for a bit of libation in the form of something stronger than wine. Do you mind?”

“Of course not,” Max said, getting to his feet. “But aren’t the girls a little young?”

“Yes, they are,” Gus said, directing his daughters to sit by the desk. “But I’m not.”

“Well, I pride myself on a well-stocked bar, Gus. So, what’ll it be?”