Nick and Elizabeth are having an affair. The less I resist, the less power it wields. People have affairs. They’re just another troublesome thing people have from time to time. People have heartburn and debt. They have nightmares and gallstones and doubts and regrets. I should know. I’ve built a career addressing ailments—which, come to think of it, uniquely qualifies me to inspect a person’s body and mind just to point out flaws; or to provoke vulnerability, in a general way; or to grip a neck—and so it would seem I have access as well as brains.

Having finished his dinner, Nick cleans his share of the mess, says good night and takes his leave. Jonah and Elizabeth begin tidying the rest, but I say, “Shit. Forgot to test the pool water.”

Elizabeth tells me not to bother, that she tested it this morning, but Nick is already halfway across the yard, so I mumble something about algaecide and slip outside to run after him. By the time I call his name, he is almost to the door of his borrowed bungalow. He turns and waits, and only when I’m close enough to speak barely above a whisper do I ask, “What are you doing in the morning?”

He frowns, shakes his head.

“Given how well you responded to that tea, a supplement system is going to change your life. We’ll swing by the office, do an intake—”

“No, you really—”

“I insist. Obviously, you aren’t expected to buy anything, but you’ll have a metabolic profile for when you’re ready. I’ll hook you up with a free consultation before Jonah wakes up. Just don’t tell those two.” I nod toward the house, roll my eyes, shake my head. “They’re always giving me shit about being too generous, you know? Good for the community, bad for the books.” I laugh. He doesn’t.

Nick says, “That’s thoughtful, but seriously, I’m feeling better.”

“You aren’t going to believe how you feel when I’m through with you.” I slap his shoulder. “Why don’t you meet me downstairs at, say, seven. It’s a plan.”

Nick gives in, says, “Okay.” Then he goes and surprises both of us by saying, “Thanks, Dr. Hart.”

“Not another word.”

12.