Chapter 4

“Yes.”

“Which practice referred you? Mr. Carter is seeing his last patient of the day. I don't seem to have anyone else listed.”

“Oh, I'm not a patient. I'm a…” What am I? Spiritual counselor? Sex therapist? Insurance Salesman?“A friend of his. He's expecting me.”

“Oh, I see,” she said with what could have been a wink. Does she know about his affliction? Did she think I’m one of his ‘special’ friends?

“Name please?”

“Oh…um." Randal couldn't think fast enough to do anything but tell the truth. But, then why shouldn't he? He wasn't one of Doug's playmates; he was here on legitimate business—the most legitimate of all: God’s business. “My name is Randal Cummings from Weston.”

The receptionist switched on the intercom. “Doug?”

“Yes?”

“There's a Mr. Collins?” She looked at him.

“Cummings…from Weston,” Randal said.

“Cummings from Weston. He says he has an appointment to see you.”

“I don't know anybody named Cummings…”