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was not going to Utah.
    How unfortunate for Connie, thought Julio sarcastically and restrained himself from actually saying it aloud. He grimaced behind Nola’s back as Connie agreed they would love to come back if they had time. She asked Nola to remind Martin to come to the reunion, as it would help her to see a familiar face.
    â€œI’ll tell him you said that. I know he’s always cherished your friendship.”
    Julio climbed behind the wheel, a mocking sneer on his lips. “We had such fun being pregnant together. Truth be told, I bet Mom couldn’t stand Nola. What a supercilious, sanctimonious sycophant.”
    â€œWow,” said Connie. “How long have you been waiting to make that alliterative comment?”
    â€œEver since she practically closed the door on my face when we entered.”

Chapter 9
    September 20, 1964
    â€œBeth, it’s me.”
    â€œAnd does this me have a name?”
    â€œWhat kind of a question is that?” he asked angrily.
    â€œIt’s a fair question since I know a lot of people who call themselves me. It’s egocentric to assume there is only one man in my life. Judging by the giant ego, I would assume this is the infamous Dr. Harriman.”
    â€œBeth, you are one super bitch. Why haven’t you called me? It’s been three weeks since our last get-together.”
    â€œThat’s right. I told you I’d call you when I was ready to see you.”
    â€œQuit busting my balls. Don’t you want to see me?”
    â€œI don’t think it’s a productive use of my time to spend it on a man who doesn’t intend to leave his wife,” she said.
    â€œOkay, we’ve been through this many times. I think we need to talk in person. Why don’t we meet at the same place and then we can go shopping at that jewelry store afterwards for something that will make your time worthwhile.”
    â€œThat’s tempting since I need a trinket for an event I’m attending on Saturday at your snooty country club. Are you and your left-wing, commie, do-gooder wife going?”
    â€œWell, yes, since I’m the club Chairman. Are you going with that fat, bald, nearly-dead dentist who’s been parading you around?”
    â€œYes, but you left out the adjective generous, and while he may be nearly dead, he rises to the occasion on a consistent basis. I like his drugs and it makes our sessions quite painless. Now, I’m very busy and when I can see you, I’ll call you.” She clicked off the phone.
    â€œDamn that woman. Who does she think she is?” he muttered as he threw a cigarette lighter at the wall. He then pressed the intercom and asked if his three-thirty appointment was here yet.
    â€œYes. Doctor. She is waiting for you. I’ll send her in.”
    He quickly looked at his notes on the incoming patient. He was pleased to see it was Ms. Barbara Palmer, late thirties with relationship problems. He remembered her as quite attractive, but a little too passive for his taste. His personal preference these days leaned toward the bold, brassy and buxom, and as he thought about Beth, he felt stirring in his groin. Well, maybe Ms. Palmer will help take my mind off Beth, he thought with a smug smile.
    He stood up to greet her as she walked into his office. “Hello, Ms. Palmer. It’s good to see you. You look lovely. How are you feeling today?”
    She slumped down on his black leather sofa and began sobbing.
    He walked over to her and sat down. He put his arm around her and massaged her shoulder in sensuous circles while she cried. His hand eventually left her shoulder to stroke her right breast. She pretended indifference, but her heavy breathing said otherwise.
    He pulled her to him. “I can’t help myself. I find you so attractive, I’ve been thinking about you since our last session. I know I shouldn’t, but I can’t help it. You are so beautiful I can’t get you out of