Her hand was warm and soothing. Surprisingly, what had been a sharp and uncomfortable feeling began to ease quickly under her ministrations. "Maggie, ...hat's amazing," I said, stretching my neck amazed to feel little discomfort. "It's normally very uncomfortable for a day or two when that happens. Where did you learn that trick?" She blushed a little, "Can't remember," she said, a little defensively, “I'm a healer. I seem to have always been able to do something like it. As I've grown older,". She and I were always deeply engrossed in some book and I would ask her what she was reading, she would ask me what I was reading. One thing led to another and eventually, we started a book club for the building. It’s only about five of us: two white women, two black women, including me, and a gay Spanish cat. Once a month, someone hosts the group at their crib and we all bring a covered dish and dish about the book. Everyone brings their own flavor to the group, literally and figuratively.. Dreading the answer, I said gingerly,"Ok, that'll be fine, what time will that be Mr Patel?" Oh it will be exactly half past thirty minutes after six of the clock" he beamed at me, showing half the gold in England in his smile.Behind me mum giggled as I fought against the tears rising,"Half past six?" Yes" In the morning?" Yes" he said and looked at me in pity, "He sells newspapers too and has to be there early isn't it?" Is it? I mean does he?" Oh dear, oh dear Tommy, I am thinking that you. She explained how she had gotten into the hotel business. Turns out clients in high places put her on to the group that had a plan to suck up better hotels that were on hard times financially. They got them at distress sale values, renovated them and got top dollar for rooms and amenities. They only had a few so far but the profit was enormous."We sold two of our best last year and the net profit was greater than our entire investment in all the properties. Now all the profit is pure gravy. All.