He drove the SUV two blocks away from the Baldwin Gallery. He walked to the office from there. This way he really seemed lost. The outside of Live-Life-Long was minimalistic. Just a white, frosted-glass front door with a logo etched into it. The minute you entered, you were greeted by aromatherapy of lavender, vanilla, and cedar. He suspected they were pumping oxygen into the room, as well—the way they did at casinos to keep you alert and awake until you lost all your money. There was soft New Age music playing in the background. Two very attractive women—who appeared to be around fifty—sat behind a white counter that held two purple orchid plants. Perfect.

He slapped on a charming smile and approached them. “Good morning. I am sorry to bother you, but I seem to be a bit turned around. I was looking for the Baldwin Gallery, and it appears I’m walking around in circles. Would you mind setting me in the right direction?”

Both looked like they had come out of a mold. Something akin to The Stepford Wives, but older. Great marketing strategy. Sassy and sexy at sixty.

One of the women stood and leaned across the counter. “No trouble at all. When you go out the door, make a right. Go down to the stop sign and make a left. Go two more blocks, and it’s on the right. You can’t miss it!”

“Obviously I did!” Avery gave the biggest charming smile he could muster as he secretly placed the listening device on the back of one of the orchid plants. He laughed to himself. A plant for a plant. Funny. “Thank you very much. Enjoy your day.” He turned and walked out.

After placing an earbud in his ear, he was pleased to hear them chatting about him. “Nice-looking man. I wonder how long he’s going to be in town.” He smiled and continued to walk back to the SUV. He passed a recreational marijuana shop and wondered how the doctor felt about that kind of competition. Or is it? He shrugged. Next thing on his agenda was to look at the house and that massive garage.