His attempt at appearing blasé didn't succeed. "Anyone can do this?"
"It operates on manipulation of brain waves but only on highly intelligent individuals." I crossed my fingers that he was stupid enough to believe my bull shit. I sensed my life depended on it.
"So it's not just you who can do this thing? All of the others can. . .go back, so to speak?"
"Oh, no! My husband is far lacking in the mental acumen to accomplish the task."
"But you, on the other hand. . ."
"At the expense of sounding immodest, I must say I am one of those who can attain this state."
"You're lying! That can't be done!" he growled.
It took all I could muster to hold it together. "You know it can happen. You know we've gone back and watched you."
"Spied on me, you mean!"
"Yes." I tried to look contrite. "I'm sorry, but it wasn't I."
"Who watched me?"
I could no longer hide my fear. "Howard Abbott. He and I are the only ones left," I lied. "Wouldn't you like to be another one with this gift? Think of the possibilities."
A cabin in the hills above Santa Barbara. The stupid bitch! I can't trust her not to lie! What she's telling me is beyond belief and yet I know this ability exists. I've seen the proof with my own eyes. I've known it for months, since I was observed when no one was there to see me. As incredible as this psychic ability is, the whole world knows something or someone can do this. It's in the newspapers and magazines but no one but only I with my brilliance have come close to finding the secret! Why shouldn't the one who controls it be me?
This woman obviously knows she is outsmarted by me and wants to save her life. She'll give up her husband who she practically calls stupid and this other Abbott person just so she can live. I'll let her think that's possible while I confirm or dismiss what she tells me.
"What would you have me do, Elizabeth?"
"You have my purse and cell phone. Call my husband and Howie Abbott and summon them. They have the equipment; once it's in your hands, you'll have the ability."
"Then what shall I do with them, my dear?"
"That's up to you but you'll need me to operate the machines."
Does this foolish woman think I believe for a minute she'll sacrifice her husband and this other fool for her life? No, she's only stalling. She's not comprehended the depth of my intelligence to see through her guise.