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With a satisfied smile, Adelaide stepped onto the conference floor. It was a typical setting: the “Grand” Ballroom had high ceilings and cheap looking light fixtures resembling chandeliers. The carpeting was reasonably clean but had a beaten down appearance from the application of thousands of feet and hundreds of vacuumings.

Getting in had been a breeze. Paul, the rotund reporter had obtained a guest pass for her but likely would have fallen on a grenade if her sultry voice had requested it. But, he could not be her quarry on a reporter’s salary and just as well – yuck. Now, the good doctor on the other hand, would do very nicely. Her newfound companions had also lapped up her cover story of being a mature student interested in pursuing a medical specialty. “Not nearly enough beautiful women in the profession” Paul had loudly proclaimed. Dr. Crispin-Smith seemed slightly embarrassed for his acquaintance using such a flagrant attempt to gain her favour.

Now, as they wandered about the various booths, she would continue to expertly play off one against the other while they competed for her attention. The doctor was sure to feel quite chuffed when she eventually let him win. To the point of being very gracious, if things went to plan. The doctor was currently deploying an “I’m smarter” strategy as he guided them to a display of a colonoscope. “Does this employ the new series 3 polyp laser?” he asked the vendor. Receiving a negative reply, “too bad, it is a very promising technology” and went on to a lengthy explanation of its benefits. Adelaide appeared to listen intently until Paul interrupted “Christ Smith, you’re going to bore her into a plastic surgery career”. Adelaide laughed as she placed a hand on Paul’s fleshy forearm. Crispin’s facial expression went from hurt to devastated. She waited a few moments though, before giving the small of his back a reassuring rub. “No really, that was very informative. Thank you Crispin”.

The end of each aisle was decorated with bright looking floral displays. “Maybe the facilitators felt they may need to compensate for the foul odours they associate with this branch of medicine” Paul quipped, stooping to muck raking as a change in tact. “Reporting on it is far nobler, I’m sure” came Crispin’s sarcastic retort. “More likely they are attempting to draw a higher standard of attendees” as he smiled in Adelaide’s direction. “Quite stunning” he softly added as he dropped his eyes. You’re a fool, he told himself. She’s not only out of your league, she may be in a different sport entirely. Still, as long as she was doling out attention, he was powerless not to respond. “The arrangements are lovely” observed Adelaide as she stooped in to take in the scents. She sensed the buzzing in the air even before she felt something on her arm. “Oh fuck!” she thought….