Forever Young: Blessing or Curse (Always Young Trilogy)

by Morgan Mandel

“No use denying it, my dear. She gave me an earful. I know exactly how she feels.”

  Dorrie thought of what she’d seen on the app. Jeanne wasn’t the only one with doubts about this man.

  “My dear, what I’d like is for you to be an emissary and tell your friend the true facts. Can you do that for me?”

  She nodded, wondering what kind of fabrication he’d present.

  “It’s true the first versions of the Forever Young pill were flawed. The tests performed by your husband indicated it could cause thyroid hormone hyperactivity, resulting in an overreaction most likely leading to thyroid storms, rapid heartbeat, arrhythmias, and other dangerous side effects.

  “Fortunately, not long afterward my own studies presented a breakthrough, and I was able to scrap portions of the earlier formula in favor of a secure one. The new formula is what you’re taking and what Michael McIntyre took, and also what the other test market subjects will receive. I assure you, the Forever Young pill is absolutely safe in its present form.”

  He looked sincere. What he’d said had to be true. Thank goodness, he’d chosen to place her in his confidence. A great weight lifted from Dorrie’s shoulders. Free from guilt, she could in good conscience continue as the pill’s spokesperson.

  “Do you think you can relay that to your friend?”

  She smiled into his eyes. “Oh, yes, Roman, I will certainly do my best to convince Jeanne she’s wrong in her assumptions.”

  Roman bent his head down. “I only wish I could have gotten to her father earlier, before his heart condition worsened. It might have made all the difference.”

  “Don’t feel bad, Roman. You can only do so much. After all, you’re not God.”

  He gave a short laugh. “No, I’ve never claimed to be. Well then, enough talking. We’ve got work to accomplish.”

  “That we do.”

  Dorrie’s heart lifted as she got up and went back to her desk.

  She was so jubilant, she couldn’t help sharing the news with Kelly at lunch. “Promise you won’t say a word of this to anyone, especially, Roman, but I’ve got to tell you what happened.”

  “My lips are sealed.”

  She filled her friend in on the whole fiasco of finding the dictation on Larry’s iPhone and being so upset she’d copied it onto her laptop computer.

  When Dorrie had finished, Kelly said, “I can see how you’d have been worried, and I’m glad it worked out right. That’s got to be a relief for you.”

  “It sure is. I’d have felt horrible telling people the Forever Young pill was safe if it weren’t.”

  Her friend nodded in agreement. “Good thing you don’t have to, and good thing Roman’s the trustworthy sort.”

  “True, he may not be the best of fathers, but he’s not all that bad.”

  After she’d returned to her desk, with a sudden burst of vigor she tackled the rest of her dictation. Unfortunately, despite her lightened spirits, before long her energy began to lag. She’d crash when she got home.

  As soon as she’d eaten dinner, she stumbled upstairs and got ready for bed. Before falling asleep, her last thoughts were how sad it was that Larry hadn’t lived to rejoice in the discovery of the improved formula.

  ***

  On Thursday after work, Dorrie found a romance to watch on TV, and didn’t bother turning on her computer. By Friday evening she felt guilty. She absolutely must go online and pay her bills, if nothing else. After debating about bringing the laptop into the family room to work on it while watching TV, she decided the kitchen desk would be more conducive for concentration.

  The Windows logo flashed on, followed by an array of gibberish. What was that all about? She’d only flipped the switch, and hadn’t touched any other keys. Could it be an uncompleted program update from when she’d last logged off?

  “You will not get the better of me,” she told the computer, as she firmly pressed and held the on/off switch to manually turn off the computer. It took a while for the screen to fade. Finally, with something like a sigh, it all shut down.

  “Please work, please work,” she prayed, waiting for the system to restart. When it did, more gibberish greeted her.

  Okay, this was war. She pulled out her anti-virus DVD and slipped it into the slot. The program started and she chose the scan option. After an hour, the software indicated the type of virus. She grabbed the phone to call technical support. The IT guys would know what to do.

  When she described what had flashed onto the screen and the name attributed to the virus, the man groaned. “Damn, sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but your machine is fried. That bug spreads like dandelions, invading the root and hidden files. I don’t dare try a remote or I’d get it too.”

  “That’s maniacal. Why are people so mean?”

  “Don’t know. Maybe it’s a power trip.”

  “So, nothing can be done?”

  “Computers are pretty cheap these days. My advice is to get a new one, unless you’d rather install a new hard drive and operating system.

  “I don’t know what to do. This computer is almost brand new. Well, thanks, anyway.”

  Well, that was that. She didn’t know how, but somehow she’d accidentally clicked a bad link. Larry had warned her about viruses and Trojans. He’d been smart not to network his computer to hers.

  This was frustrating to the extreme. It had taken a while to get her new computer up and running exactly how she’d wanted it. She hadn’t even had a chance to enjoy it much, since she’d been too busy paying bills and transferring Larry’s notes. The kicker was viruses weren’t even covered in the computer’s warranty. And what if she got a new hard drive and operating system, then clicked the bad link and the same thing happened again? The nightmare could go on forever.

  With a sigh, she decided to wait before making any purchases. In the meantime, she’d pay her bills the old fashioned way. Good thing she had a smartphone to check her emails.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

  Saturday evening, Dorrie called Jeanne. “Before you say anything, I’ve got something to tell you.” She filled her friend in on what Roman had said.

  Jeanne sighed. “I don’t mean to be a killjoy, but did it occur to you, the man may be lying to save his skin?”

  “There’s no way he could know what I found on the iPhone. He volunteered the information, and I believe him.”

  “I don’t know. Maybe you’re more gullible than I am. I still don’t trust him.”

  “I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree. By the way, other stuff’s been happening.”

  After Dorrie filled her friend in on the ailing computer, Jeanne gave a short laugh. “To paraphrase a saying—Computers, you can’t live with ‘em or without ‘em.”

  “Too true. It’s heaven when they work, and hell when they don’t. “

  “You know, it’s kind of strange about your computer going on the fritz after your copying binge and the revelations about the new formula. It’s almost as if your boss could see what you were doing.”

  “Impossible. My computer doesn’t even have one of those built-in cameras. “

  “He could have installed cameras in your house before you moved in, or even while you were at work.”

  “You do have a wild imagination, Jeanne.”

  “Maybe so. Comes from watching too many spy flicks.”

  “I must admit you do have a talent for guessing the bad guy before a movie ends.”

  “That I do. The only one better is Steve. By the way, I still bump into him occasionally and he always asks how you’re doing. You know, he’s never gotten over losing you.”

  “He’s a great guy. I probably would have married him, if not for Larry.”

  “Yes, you and Larry were the perfect match. I still can’t believe we’ve lost him.”

  Dorrie sighed. “Sometimes it seems our marriage was a dream. I’ve got a new life, but I wish I could get back the old one.”

  “We’ve both had our tragedies, that’s for sure. I’m still
bummed about Dad’s passing. I miss him like hell, though I admit it was no picnic being at his beck and call.”

  “I know what you mean.”

  “Of course you do. By the way, how are you feeling? You’ve got to be pretty far along.”

  “That I am. Less than seven weeks to go. From what I gather from my doctor, and all the magazines and books I’ve scoured on the subject, I’m proceeding normally, with the usual pregnancy issues, like swollen feet, being tired a lot, and feeling like I’m carrying a bowling ball in my stomach. Still, it’ll be worth it. I’m looking forward to motherhood.”

  “At one time I’d wanted kids, but that was before I found that scum Jerry doing the dirty deed with that low life, Lorraine, in the middle of our marital bed.”

  “And you’ve not tied the knot since. It’s a shame, since you’ve got so much to offer some lucky man.”

  “Once burned is enough. If I were tempted, which I’m not, a drive to the hardware store where he pretends to work would cure me. I only go there in extreme necessity, like when I can’t find what I need anywhere else. It’s nauseating watching him make time with every female who walks in the door.”

  “Lorraine divorced him, too, didn’t she?”

  “Yeah, that tramp. I don’t know who was worse, her or him. You were lucky to find Larry. He was a great guy, like part of my family. I miss him.”

  “Larry always liked you too,” Dorrie said, feeling her throat choke up.

  ***

  That evening, Dorrie couldn’t help thinking about her conversation with Jeanne, and how life had taken a rotten turn for both of them. Jeanne had always been strong and sure of herself. It wouldn’t hurt to adopt some of that attitude.

  She didn’t know what to make of Jeanne’s speculation about cameras in the house. Such over-the-edge thinking was so unlike her levelheaded friend there may be some validity to it.

  The thought of someone watching her every move and listening to her every word gave Dorrie the willies, yet it could explain the uneasy feeling she’d had since the break-in. The more she thought about it, the more it seemed plausible. The virus infecting her computer so soon after the break-in lent more credence to the notion. What better way to erase damaging evidence?

  As she cumbersomely undressed, she glanced around the bedroom. She didn’t see anything resembling a surveillance camera, but she was no expert on such matters.

  If Jeanne were correct and Roman had watched her copy data from the iPhone to the computer, what else could he see? Were cameras hidden not only here in her bedroom, but maybe, God forbid, in the bathrooms? Thinking of such an invasion of privacy sent goose bumps up and down her arms.

  Tossing and turning, she knew she’d find no peace until Jeanne’s speculations were proven wrong. Doing so wouldn’t be easy. Given her present condition she couldn’t exactly climb onto ladders and search ceilings or other nooks and crannies.

  Sunday morning she came up with a possible, but embarrassing solution.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

  Feeling like an idiot, Dorrie stepped outside into the backyard to dial Kelly from the cell phone. “I know you’ll think I’m completely certifiable, and I don’t blame you, but could I ask a huge favor?”

  She explained what she wanted and why. Her request was met by silence. She cleared her throat. “What do you think? Will he do it?”

  Her friend gave a short laugh. “Really, Dorrie, are you kidding? What you’re suggesting is such a stretch. Roman’s Institute has to be aboveboard. Think about it. If there was something wrong with the pill, wouldn’t you have health issues yourself?”

  “Maybe not. My thyroid condition could be protecting me, and only people with normal readings are at danger.”

  “I don’t know if any drug is perfect. That’s why manufacturers post warnings. Take aspirin, for example. Some people are allergic to it and don’t find out until it’s too late. Still, that doesn’t mean it should be pulled off the market.”

  “Please, Kelly, I know it sounds silly, and maybe I’m overreacting because of all these pregnancy hormones running rampant, but I’d still feel better if Doug came over. I know his time is precious, and I’d pay him for his efforts.”

  Her friend sighed. “Okay, I’ll ask him, but I know he can’t do it right away. He’s on double duty and barely has time to sleep. Oh, and forget about paying. He’d never accept money from a friend.”

  “Thanks so much. Whenever he can come, I’d appreciate it. I know it’s probably nothing, but I’d feel a lot safer if he told me I have nothing to worry about. And thanks, Kelly.”

  Well, she’d done her best, and didn’t blame Kelly for doubting her. Roman had no need to go to such lengths. The pill had to be safe, and Jeanne had to be wrong. The alternative was too scary.

  That night, again, Dorrie couldn’t sleep. The baby kept moving, as if it were also restless. The fact it was active had to be a good sign, yet she longed to see and hold her baby to make sure everything was all right.

  Monday morning, as if nothing were unusual, she drove to the Institute. For the time being, she’d ignore the notions popping through her mind and pretend all was normal.

  Easier said than done. After typing a few paragraphs, she stopped and pressed her fingers against her throbbing forehead.

  “Is everything all right?”

  She almost jumped at the sound of Roman’s voice. She hadn’t heard him coming. It was as if he’d crept up on her.

  “Oh, yes. I’m a little tired, that’s all.”

  She glanced sideways at him. He seemed to be looking at her strangely, as if he were unsure about something. Was Jeanne right?

  Another thought struck her. If her home was bugged, maybe he’d overheard the conversation she’d had with Jeanne on the landline. She usually used her cell for long distance, but had been too tired to go to the other room to dig it out of her purse.

  Dorrie told her racing heart to calm down. Roman couldn’t be her enemy. Still, she averted her eyes from him, so he wouldn’t notice the wariness which might give her away. This paranoia of Jeanne’s was catching. She could hardly wait for Doug to come over to clear the issue.

  Brazening it out, she flashed what she hoped was a convincing smile.

  After Roman had gone back to his office, Dorrie sighed with relief. Away from his scrutiny, she could relax and get on with her normal duties. That is, unless cameras were trained on her here also.

  She took a deep breath and told herself to think rationally. Surveillance at such a high tech place was no cause for alarm.

  At lunch, after they’d set their trays on the table, Kelly broached the subject of Dorrie’s request. “I’m sorry. Doug’s pulled another double shift next week. Would you prefer someone else, or do you want to wait?”

  Feeling silly, Dorrie bit her lip. “There’s no hurry. Whenever he can make it is fine. He probably won’t find anything anyway.”

  They switched to other subjects less trying.

  When she got back to her desk, it wasn’t easy to put on a brave face and pretend she wasn’t disappointed at the delay. She did her best to concentrate on work and told herself the pill couldn’t be a sham. She was living proof of its safety.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

  Late Friday afternoon, Roman called Dorrie into his office. An attractive middle-aged redhead in a tight, low cut dress sat in the chair beside him.

  “I’d like you to meet Patricia Patterson.”

  Dorrie took one look at the tall, thin woman with the gigantic boobs, flawless makeup and intense green eyes, and instantly disliked her.

  The woman reached over. As they shook hands, Dorrie tried not to wince at the pressure of the handshake. Apparently, the perfect-looking woman lifted weights in her spare time.

  Roman gestured toward the other chair. “Why don’t you sit down, Dorrie. We have some details to discuss.”

  Once she was seated, he began. “As you already know, I’m extremely pleased with the young pill’s effect on you
. Though you’re well into your pregnancy, you’re still spectacularly beautiful.”

  Heat flamed from her neck to her face.

  “Don’t blush. You know it’s true. Now, to get to the thorny part. You and I went over this possibility before, but it’s time to go into greater depth. Because of the issue of your pregnancy and its unknown outcome, I’ve made arrangements for another spokesperson. This would not have been necessary if our alternate replacement had survived, but we couldn’t foresee his pre-existing medical condition.

  “As much as I’d like to keep you on in the same capacity as before and hope for the best outcome, doing so would be unrealistic.”

  He’d buttered her up and was honing in for the kill. She could be as sweet as he. “I perfectly understand, Roman. You need to protect your investment.”

  He nodded. “That being the case, from here on in, Patricia will be our spokesperson. She’s submitted to numerous physical tests indicating she’s perfectly healthy. I foresee no problems with her transition to an earlier age.

  “Before the campaign began, we had the option of waiting for you to revert before assigning you to your office duties. We don’t have that now, since we have no idea if your child will arrive early. That being the case, you’ll need to vacate your desk. It will now be Patricia’s. We can move a chair over from my office, so you won’t need to stand the entire day.”

  She didn’t care for the smug smile on Patricia’s face, as if she were enjoying Dorrie’s discomfiture. Best to pretend Roman’s words held no effect. “What would you like me to do?”

  “You’ll familiarize Patricia with the office work, bring her up to speed on how to go about the commercials, and teach her any other odds and ends you’ve picked up along the way.”

  “And after she’s ready? What then?”

  “Don’t worry. I’ll find something to keep you occupied.”

  He didn’t sound too sure about that, almost as if he wouldn’t really try.

  “Any questions, Dorrie?”

  “No, Roman. I completely understand. I’ll do my best to smooth over the transition.”