Rutland

"Astra, you are going to take a rest for a while. You will not remember this conversation. When I give you a tap on the wrist, you will awaken. You will be refreshed. And you will remember that you have to give an important speech on Monday night, at 7 o'clock. Do you understand?"

"Yes. Where exactly is 7 o'clock?"

The doctor quickly recovered from his surprise. "7 hours after noon. Does that make sense to you?"

"Oh, yes. I understand now."

"Good. Now, just relax." Astra closed her eyes, and lay her head against the padding of the couch. She heard a door close, and then after a few moments she heard the door open again. She felt a tap on her wrist, and sat up straight and opened her eyes.

The doctor said, "Are you feeling any better?"

Astra answered, "Yes, I really do feel a little better. I am still confused, though. You all act like you know me, but except for Fred, I feel like a guest here. Where am I?"

The doctor said, "We will talk to you about that a little later. I want to show you something first."

He removed a photograph from a manila folder. There was a man smiling in the picture who was well-groomed, dressed in an expensive navy blue suit and red power tie.

Astra said, "That is Ralph! He was there last night."

The doctor said, "Ralph Rutland."

Astra replied, "I do not know his full name, but that is him. Who is he?"

The doctor said,

1. "He is a lobbyist for the Dragon Group. They want the state to sign a forty-year lease to manage the tolls on I-46. You are the reason that lease has not been signed."
2. "He is your ex-husband. He did not take the divorce well."
3. "He is the majority leader in the state Senate. There has been the usual give-and-take, but I was not aware of any bad blood between you two."

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