Give the good doctor a ring

"Confidence trainer" sure sounds like a scam, but what the hell, what've you got to lose? Certainly not your dignity, that's long gone.

The woman's voice at the other end is warm and thick, like maple syrup dripping off fresh pancakes. Your ears perk up immediately as it wafts through the phone.

"Hello, Dr. Carvigo's office?"

Trying to lower your ordinarily high voice a few octaves, you tell her you're interested in Dr. Carvigo's services - well, really, you're curious what those services are.

You can practically hear the warmth of the woman's smile. "Why don't you come over and find out? First consultation is always free - found its the best way to deal with skeptics. We have an opening tomorrow, would that suit you?"

And before you know it you've stammered out your name and number and are on the books for an appointment.

Well. That certainly went further than you thought... but what have you got to lose?