By Diane Barker
“You won’t hurt him, right? I’m not looking to seriously hurt him.”
It’s always a difficult decision, and they look for that final reassurance before committing. They always do at this point. “No, Mrs. Carlisle. Your husband won’t suffer any long-term physical harm. Our goal is to make him think twice before considering outside activities. That is why you came to us, correct? We approach it as a learning experience—every course of action has consequences. We work to make the risks of engaging unacceptable. While we don’t guarantee the outcome, we do have a proven record of deterrence.”
“And he won’t be suspicious?”
“No. Your husband will never know. Our firm is very discreet. We have all the background information we need, so there’s just the matter of payment.”
Business concluded, I made a note in the file, deposited the cash in the safe and called Vivian into the office.
“A celebration is in order, partner. Mrs. Carlisle is client 100.” Popping the cork on a bottle of 1990 Dom Perignon, I poured two glasses. “A toast to all the Mrs. Carlisle’s of the world. Long may they reign.”
“A toast!” Vivian echoed as our glasses clinked to our success. “Can you believe we made it? And it’s because of you.”
“Us, Viv. We’re a team.” I handed her the file.
Vivian finished her drink. “I have to get to work now,” waving the folder as she left. “Another Mrs. Carlisle awaits.”
I poured myself a second glass and sat back in the oversized leather chair that was my first indulgence when we began our enterprise. Who’d have guessed an innocent, off-hand remark would be the beginning of our new venture. One that included the
