Michele Bravo, Playing With Fire: Chapter 43

Michele had talked to Dr. Robert Nielsen, the doctor whom she intended to handle Gus Keller's case.

He had suggested that, before they do anything else, she take him to his own home and see if those familiar surroundings would trigger a return of his memory.

Michele had agreed, but thought it prudent to dress in her fat suit, just in case any of Keller's colleagues were hanging around the place, awaiting his return.

Keller didn't remember where he lived, but of course his address was on all of his identification papers. She drove him to the address - a modest apartment in a nice neighborhood, and they walked in together.

Gus looked around, hopefully, but nothing he saw triggered any memories. The living room featured a large-screen TV and entertainment system, as well as a couple of large bookcases jam packed with books - most of them on art and in German, he noted. There were a couple of photos on a desk in the corner - but they were of elderly people and probably his parents. He must have no brothers or sisters, he thought.

The bedroom was comfortably furnished - another large-screen TV, several more book cases, a king-sized bed neatly made up with midnight blue bed coverings.

While Gus wandered from room to room, Michele went through the desk drawers, looking for pay stubs, photos, and any notes that might be of interest...both to him and to her.

Finally, Keller returned to the living room, looking extremely depressed.

"It hasn't worked," he said. "I don't recognize any of this. Nothing is ringing a bell. I guess..."

At that exact moment, there was a knock on the door.

Keller jumped. Michele swore, inwardly. Just what she did not need.

The knock came again.