“Not if he thinks he’s going to make triple that from enrolling us in his protocol,” Annie said smugly. “We’ll support you. Don’t worry. Another idea is to ask him if you can take it with you. Jessica is a registered nurse. You can tell him she’ll administer the shot.”

“That might work. I think the most important thing to him is the money. Remember, we’ll be right there. If he tries to bully you, which I doubt, or pressure you, we’ll step in,” Myra said reassuringly.

Charlotte gave a sigh of relief.

Byron entered the dining room and asked if there was anything else they wanted or needed. All said, “No, thank you.” He bowed and retreated into the kitchen.

The women stood and formed a small circle, holding hands.

“We can do this.” Annie spoke softly.

Charlotte and Myra responded, “Amen!”

Then came the high fives!

A chime from the doorbell indicated their car was waiting. They were on their way to see the Live-Life-Long practitioner and edge their way into his circle of dupes.

* * *

Dr. Julian Marcus was beside himself with delight. The Countess Anna de Silva was coming to his office! And she was bringing her friend, another well-heeled, monied sixtysomething-year-old woman. He thought perhaps his luck was finally changing for the better. He was almost giddy. He checked his watch for the zillionth time. Only thirty minutes to go! He could barely contain his excitement.

A half hour later, when the buzzer sounded, he almost jumped out of his skin. They’re here! He pulled out a small handheld mirror and checked his balding head one more time. Good. No sweating. He patted it with his handkerchief just in case. He cleared his throat and, trying to sound nonchalant, said, “Yes, Gloria?” A slight pause, then, “Please show them in.”

Gloria rapped softly on the door. Even that tiny sound made Marcus jump. A great deal was at stake. Regaining Charlotte Hansen and adding the countess and Mrs. Rutledge? His hands began to sweat. He wiped them on his trousers as discreetly as possible.

“Charlotte! I am delighted you’ve returned. So good of you to bring your friends,” he said. If nothing else, his tone of voice was suitable. He extended his hand to her and quickly moved toward Annie. “Oh, and Countess. This is a wonderful honor to meet you. And Mrs. Rutledge. I’ve heard marvelous stories of your philanthropy. Please do sit down.” He motioned to the comfortable seating area across from his desk.

Addressing his audience, Marcus began, “Has Charlotte told you much about our program?”

“Nothing in great detail, except that she feels so much better every time she leaves your office.” Myra faked it well. “That’s one of the reasons why we’re here.”