Love at first sight must run in the family. My son Matt had just revealed to me his plans to marry a girl he had just met. Matt and Lynn fell in love just hours after meeting at a New Year's Eve party at the Hotel Continental in Dallas. It was January 2004, just 22 years since Erica and I had been married. We had fallen in love almost immediately too, however, our circumstances were such that we had to keep our love a secret. The illicit affair was eventually discovered and the consequences were severe.
     We survived somehow and were still deeply in love. I’d been practicing law as a sole practitioner in North Dallas. I had started my career with a small firm and made partner in record time. My life was perfect until my wife died in a car wreck. I was devastated and quickly turned to alcohol to forget my loss. Fortunately a friend helped me get through those most difficult times and I put my drinking behind me. The loneliness persisted, however, and I frequently fell into a deep depression.
     This loneliness made me vulnerable to Erica, and perhaps it was the emptiness in Erica’s life that drew her to me. Her mother had deserted her when she was fifteen and, when she was just beginning to adjust to that loss, her father was killed in a skiing accident.
Erica was indeed an extraordinary young woman—smart, sexy, confident, and determined to get whatever she wanted. Our illicit affair led to my expulsion from the firm, the death of Erica’s Aunt Martha, and Erica’s trial for murder. We are still very much in love and, despite everything, have few regrets.
     Erica and I have two children, Matt and Ryan. Matt was the eldest and during his childhood he never indicated any desire to be an attorney. We were shocked during his junior year in college when he announced he was applying to law school. It's not that I wasn't delighted, as any father would be, to have his son follow in his footsteps, it was just so unexpected. Matt always said he would never become a lawyer because he didn't want to have to work as hard as I did. There had to be an easier way to make a living with less stress and more time to spend with the family.
     I couldn't really argue with him about that since I was working eighty hours a week trying to keep up with more than a hundred cases. So what was it that changed his thinking? In my mind it was the money. Money had always been the most important motivating factor in Matt's life. He inherited that mind set from his mother. When he was young, she would bribe him with a quarter here, a dollar there, in order to get him to do what she wanted with the least amount of resistance. It worked very well; in fact, so well that he began to expect a cash reward for almost everything he did. At some point we had to put a stop to that practice. It was at age eighteen when he went off to college that I jolted him with the fact that someone else would have to reward him in the future for his hard work.
    It took a little adjustment, but when he entered Southern Methodist University in Dallas his clear objective was to get a business degree and then go to graduate school to get his MBA. In his mind once he got his MBA he could find a lucrative job where he could live high with the least amount of effort. Unfortunately the business classes were difficult and tedious with no immediate reward, so he soon switched his major to political science, something that came naturally to him and required only a modest effort.
      I don't know where he got it, certainly not from me or his mother, but Matt was very fortunate to acquire a tremendous thirst for knowledge. I'm no psychiatrist, but I always thought it came from his high ego and competitive spirit. He couldn’t stand for anyone to be more knowledgeable than he. He loved to spout off esoteric facts to people and watch their expressions of surprise or dismay. He'd spend countless hours reading books and devouring magazine articles—fascinated by the world in which he lived and anxious to tell everyone what he had learned.
     Matt loved to argue and debate with anyone who dared to do battle with him. He rarely lost, which made finding opponents difficult. His brother Ryan was his fiercest adversary. Ryan was as intelligent as Matt but had completely different values. He cared little about money and material things. Needless to say dinnertime conversation often got very intense.
     The one thing they had in common, however, was their love for fantasy, warfare, and science fiction. They spent countless hours engaged in mock combat, whether it was Risk, Dungeons and Dragons, Civilization, or countless other games. To get an advantage over the other they studied the theories and exploits of Machiavelli, Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Napoleon, and Rommel. Although Ryan held up better than most, Matt almost always prevailed, not so much due to his ruthless, relentless attack, but more on account of his thorough preparation for battle.
     He liked to dazzle his friends with his incredible knowledge of history. He loved the reactions he got when he spouted off some detailed facts about historical events or ancient rulers. He would exaggerate at times, which hurt his credibility. As a result, many of his young opponents were lured into thinking him a charlatan and thus dismissed him as a serious threat. This usually gave him a competitive advantage as he wasn't seriously challenged before his armies were mobilized, fully equipped and ready for battle.
His mother and I were usually amused when he'd bring a new friend home to play one of his games. They'd be smiling and giggling when they arrived but invariably would leave with long, sullen faces.
     Despite what I've said, those who got to know Matt would tell you he had a good heart and would go to great lengths to help his friends. He was very sociable, loved to talk with anyone, and never forgot a name. He seemed to need approval and acceptance and would go to great lengths to get it. Although he had a tough facade, he genuinely cared about people and wanted to help them.
After hanging out my shingle, I decided to specialize in financial and estate planning. The publicity I had received from Erica’s trial had gotten me a lot of exposure and made me a hot commodity. Unfortunately, when the economy cratered after the big banking scandal in the mid-eighties, so did my practice. After that debacle, I decided I needed a second specialty that would do well when times were bad. The obvious pick was bankruptcy. The hedge worked very well and my bankruptcy business grew to the point that it now comprised more than 45 percent of my annual billings. Most of this growth came as the result of quick and efficient handling of the vast amount of paperwork needed for the average bankruptcy. This was made possible by new computer software that took care of the math and preparation of schedules. While most attorneys needed two or three appointments to finish a bankruptcy, I did it all at the first appointment.
     I learned early on that 80 percent of the bankruptcies that came through the door were nearly identical. This allowed me to have substantial portions of the paperwork preprogrammed on the computer before the client stepped into my office. This quick processing delighted clients and baffled my competition. With efficiency came volume and with volume came nice profits.
My office was located on the 18th floor of One Main Place just two minutes from the Earl Cabell Federal Building where the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas was situated. This was an ideal location for a bankruptcy practice and made it easy for me to run to court or attend creditor meetings held by the trustee. Matt didn't like the location since he lived in Carrollton, which was 15 miles away. It was late January and Matt had come into my office to tell me he’d fallen in love.
"She's a senior at SMU, a marketing major—we met at a party."
"Sounds interesting. Tell me about her."
"She's a brunette, medium height, great body, and she’s got a head on her shoulders. She wants to go into advertising. You and Mom are going to love her."
"That's a good field. What's her name?"
"Lynn . . . Lynn Lakey."
"So when do I get to meet her?"
"In just a few hours. She's coming by to go to lunch. Why don't you come along?"
"No, you guys go ahead. I've got to get ready for a mediation tomorrow morning."
"We'd really like to talk to you."
"About what?"
"About what in the hell I'm going to do with my life."
"Why would you want to discuss something like that with a girl you just met?"
"It's going to affect her too."
"How do you mean?"
"She’s the one, Dad."
"But you just met her."
"I know, but I've never felt this way about a woman before. You know how sometimes you're looking for something but you don't know exactly what it is? All you know is you hope you recognize it when you see it."
"Yes, I do."
"Aside from all the sexual feelings I was getting from Lynn there was something else. I couldn't figure out what it was until it finally hit me."
"What was that?"
"Relief. For years I've been looking for the right woman without success, but after twenty-four hours with Lynn suddenly I felt calm and contented. I think the search is over."
"That's how I felt when I met your mother. . . . I hope it’s true. I can't wait to meet this woman. She must be something else."
"She is—she's dynamite."
"Good. . . . Well, I've got a client waiting for me, but I will definitely see you for lunch."
     Matt went into his office and started to work on some discovery that he had to get out. While he was working, he found himself looking out his window toward SMU. He could see Moody Coliseum on a clear day and he wondered where Lynn was and what she was doing. The morning dragged on and he had trouble concentrating. Finally it was time for lunch. Matt and I met Lynn at the Peking Palace in the underground city beneath One Main Place. It was crowded so we had a drink while we waited. Matt excused himself to make a phone call.
"So you two enjoyed the New Year’s Eve party, huh?" I said.
"Yes, it was wonderful," Lynn replied. “I’ve never seen so much confetti. I think it was knee deep."
“Really?”
“Yeah, the hotel had an atrium and they had it loaded in nets high above us. I didn’t notice it until they dumped it on us at midnight.”
Rich shook his head. “Well, it's going to be an exciting year, I think, with technology advancing as rapidly as it is. It seems like every day I pick up the newspaper and read about some incredible new invention."
"I know."
"Just today I was reading about the new Smart Card. I guess we won't be using checking accounts much longer."
"That's right, we've been learning about that in one of my finance classes. Everything's going to be automatic. No checks or deposits. On payday you just run your Smart Card through the company scanner and it credits your account. All transactions will be instantaneous. No more hot checks or overdrafts."
"I hope I don't ever lose my card. What a disaster that would be."
"Really."
Lynn looked toward the phones and saw Matt returning. She smiled at him as he approached and sat next to her.
"So have you made a decision about what area of the law you want to practice?" I asked.
"As a matter of fact we have. That's what I wanted to talk to you about. I've been telling Lynn how I planned to be a PI attorney until Congress and the state legislature spoiled that idea."
"You can still make a living practicing personal injury law. It's just not as lucrative as it used to be."
"Well, I want to make a ton of money. I didn't spend seven years busting my ass to become an attorney just to make a living. I want to be financially independent. A lot of lawyers manage to do that, so there's no reason why I can't do it too."
"You just graduated from law school, for godsakes. Don't you think it’s a little unrealistic to think you can get rich overnight?"
"Maybe," Matt replied. "But you gotta think big, particularly if you love money the way I do. I plan to have a lot of it."
Matt’s obsession with money bothered me but there wasn’t anything I could do about it. Erica had come from a wealthy family and was used to living well. Matt had acquired all her tastes and desires. Erica had an appreciation for the finer things of life. This had cost me plenty, but it was the price I had to pay for the woman I loved.
I said, “Are you listening to this, Lynn? You sure you want to get involved with such a greedy young man?"
"Actually, I like Matt's thinking. Why not make as much money as you can?"
"Yeah, Dad. You always quoted the Bible to us: ‘Seek and ye shall find, ask and ye shall receive, knock and the door will be opened onto you.’ Am I wrong?"
"No," I said. "That's what the Bible says, but I don't think it applies to obtaining wealth."
"Why not? Haven't you noticed people who demand a lot usually get it? So why put up with anything but the best?"
"He's right, Mr. Coleman." Lynn said. "The law of concentration. You get what you focus on most. We studied that in psychology."
"Jesus, you two were meant for each other," I said. "So what area of the law is going to propel you to financial independence?"
"This will probably surprise you but I'm thinking I'll go into bankruptcy law."
I chuckled. "Bankruptcy? There's no money in bankruptcy."
"I don't know, Dad. Lynn and I have been talking and doing some research and it seems to us that bankruptcy is the most promising of any field of the law."
"How do you figure?"
"I've been studying the market," Lynn said, "and what's amazing is that more than 10 percent of the population is insolvent and delinquent on one or more of their debts but less than 1 percent file bankruptcy every year."
"Is that right?"
"Yes, so we have an incredible market. All we have to do is identify those people who are insolvent and get them to face reality. That's going to be my job, to get these people into the office so we can make them realize bankruptcy is their best move."
"People are proud and naturally optimistic. It's not easy to convince them to file bankruptcy,” I said. “Believe me. I've been playing this game for years. A lot of people say I'm the best damn bankruptcy attorney in Dallas, but I certainly haven't got rich from it."
"That's because you're not trying to get rich, Dad. You're just trying to make a living. You don't do any advertising with the exception of the Yellow Pages and you don't solicit business. That's why you only do two hundred or so bankruptcies a year. We think we can get a thousand with the right advertising campaign. That will give us gross revenue of more than one million dollars a year."
I shook my head and replied, "You're right. I'm not a damn TV Guide lawyer, if that’s what you mean. I'm a professional and I try to act like it. It's not right to peddle the law like a used car salesman."
"I disagree. As long as I provide competent services, which I will, then it shouldn't matter how I get my business. I think tasteful ads, whether they are in the TV Guide, on the radio or on television, are quite appropriate."
"Well if you've got it all figured out, why do you need me?"
"You know bankruptcy practice as well as anyone in Dallas. If we start bringing in a high volume of clients, we're going to have to gear up for it. We'll need a good staff and a system for getting the cases in and out as quickly and efficiently as possible. This is where we could use your help, Dad. Will you help us set up our operation?"
I frowned and said, "Why should I help the competition?"
"Because I'm your son."
"I’m not sure you understand how much paperwork is involved in bankruptcy practice. You can't just rush clients through. They all take a certain amount of time and attention. You have to do your due diligence to be sure everything you file is correct. Handling a thousand bankruptcies would be a colossal nightmare."
"We know that. That's why we need you to show us how to handle them as efficiently as possible. General Motors puts out a shitload of cars, but that doesn't mean they're all a pile of junk. You can have high volume and good quality at the same time if you're geared up for it. We need you to show us how to do that."
"Okay, okay," I sighed. "I'll help in any way I can."
"Good, we really appreciate it, Dad."
"So what's the game plan?" I asked.
"Well, once we have our systems and support staff ready, we'll launch our advertising campaign. I'm going to let Lynn explain what we have planned."
Lynn smiled and began explaining their plans with great eagerness and excitement. "Okay . . . There are ten local telephone books, three area books, and then the main Dallas directory. We plan to get in all of them but since they all come out at different times, it will take a full year to do it. To get us some immediate business, we plan to advertise in TV Week in the Dallas Morning News."
"Oh God, are you really going to do that?"
"Yes," Matt replied. "It's the only way to get some immediate business and since our overhead will be high it's absolutely necessary."
"I can't believe the Coleman name is going to be in the TV book."
"Oh come on, Dad. It's no big deal. A lot of good firms advertise in TV Week," Matt said.
"Anyway, after a few months, if the cash flow is sufficient, we'll do a few radio and TV spots," Lynn continued.
"It sounds expensive. Have you done a cost analysis?"
"Yes, it will be expensive, but our revenue should be at least five times our advertising dollar. It will all work out."
"Maybe eventually, but you may have negative cash flow for a while. How do you plan to fund the initial start up?"
"We can do some short-term financing if we need to," Lynn said. "We've got good credit."
"If you're wrong about this, you may be filing your own bankruptcy."
"Sometimes you've got to gamble," Matt said.
"I can understand you gambling, Matt, but I don't think you should drag Lynn into this. You've only known each other a few weeks. What if things don't work out between you?"
"I want to be in on it," Lynn said. "It's exciting and I want to be part of it."
"Lynn doesn't have to do this," Matt added. "No one is twisting her arm. She wants to do it and I’m glad she wants to be involved. It will make it that much more fun, and with her expertise, it will be more likely to succeed."
I leaned back, smiled, and said, "Well, I hope it works out."
"It will, Dad. Don't worry."
The waitress finally took us to a table and we sat down and studied the menu. Matt watched me intently, wondering if I was angry. I wasn’t—just frustrated because he was so naive and wasn’t being realistic. Unfortunately, being like his mother, he was stubborn and once he got an idea in his head there was no dissuading him.
"So, I want to bring Lynn home to see Mom sometime."
I looked up and smiled, "Sure, your Mom would like that, I'm sure. Why don't we all go out to dinner Saturday night?"
"Saturday?" Matt said and then looked at Lynn.
"That's fine with me," Lynn said.
"Good then, it's settled," I said. "Come by the house and we'll all go together. Do you like Italian, Lynn?"
"Oh, absolutely."
"Good, we'll go to Antonio's in Addison. How's that?"
"Good," Matt said. "That's a great place."
After lunch we went to back to the office. It was cold and a light snow was falling. Lynn didn't have an overcoat so Matt held her close to him as we walked.
"Do you have classes this afternoon?" I asked.
"Just an ethics class at two."
"Ethics? I didn't know there were any ethics in advertising."
She laughed. "That's why they developed the course. Anybody who's a marketing major has to take it."
"I bet it's an interesting class," I said.
"It is. We get into some very heated debates sometimes."
As we approached the lobby to our office building Matt said, "Well, I'm going to walk Lynn to her car."
"Okay," I replied. "It was very nice meeting you, Lynn. I'm looking forward to going out with you for dinner."
"Yes, I can't wait to meet your wife. Matt has told me so much about her."
"Yes, Erica will be anxious to meet you too."
"Bye," Lynn said.
I watched them walk to the elevator still in shock over Lynn's sudden appearance in Matt's life. She was a delight and I could understand how Matt fell in love with her. I wondered what Erica would think of her.
***
On Saturday night we all went out to dinner as planned. Erica and Lynn hit it off from the start. Erica wanted to know all about her and Lynn didn't seem to mind telling her. She told us about her family and growing up in Bonham, a small town northeast of Dallas near the Texas–Oklahoma border. She had only one sibling, an older sister who had just graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in English. They were very close. Lynn's dad was a dentist and her mother, besides being a homemaker, was on the local school board.
It was a very impressive family resume. I was certainly convinced she would be a great catch, but I wondered if they would actually ever get married. Before I married my first wife, I had thought I was in love more than once. You just never knew about those things. As the girls talked, Matt and I kept busy dipping our bread into the olive oil the waitress had left for us. It was good and I kept telling myself to stop before I was too full to eat the entree.
"So, Rich tells me you're going to help Matt out in his new law practice," Erica said.
"Yes, I'm going to be his right-hand woman, so to speak."
"I was really surprised to hear you were going into bankruptcy law, Matt," Erica said.
"I'm surprised too, Mother. I never even considered it until Lynn pointed out to me how lucrative it could be if we handled it right."
"So, when will you start?" Erica asked.
"Well, that's a good question," Matt said. "But before we answer it there is something we need to tell you."
"What's that?" I asked.
"Well, Lynn and I are getting married."
A big smile came over Erica's face. "Oh my God. What a surprise."
"Yes, we're kind of in shock too, but now that we've found each other there's no reason to wait."
"Congratulations," I said. "I was worried this big lug would die a bachelor."
"Well, that's not going to happen now, Dad."
"Good."
"So, have you set a date?" Erica asked.
"Not exactly, but we're thinking the middle of June," Lynn said.
"That's not too far off. So, where will the wedding be?"
"We're not sure. All our friends are here," Matt said. "But Lynn's parents may want to have it there."
"Well, Bonham isn't too far away," Erica said. "If you have it there, it wouldn't be so bad. . . . This is so exciting! Have you told your parents, Lynn?"
"No, you're the first to know."

CHAPTER 2

The limousine pulled up in front of St. Monica's Catholic church and an usher opened the door. It was a warm, sunny day in June and a large crowd had already gathered inside the magnificent edifice. Lynn took the usher's hand and stepped out of the limousine. She wore a long, short sleeve silk gown with a long train. Two of her bridesmaids held the delicate fabric as she walked up the steep steps. Her mother and father watched joyfully as she entered the church. After her mother was seated, the bridesmaids and ushers each proceeded to the altar and Lynn and her father waited for The Wedding March to begin.
Finally, the music started and the crowd came to their feet. Lynn, on her father's arm, walked proudly down the aisle to the altar. Matt watched her intently as she walked. Their eyes met and she smiled radiantly. When she finally reached him, Matt took her arm and stood proudly, ready to be wed. The priest began the mass, and when he got to the homily, he turned his attention to the bride and groom.
"Matt and Lynn, you are getting married at a very difficult time. I know the world is at peace, the economy is good and all seems well, but there is still great danger, especially to a young couple just starting out. You see, never in the history of the world have there been more distractions and temptations set before you by the fallen angel, Lucifer. What are these temptations? They take the form of money, fancy cars, lavish foods, liquor, drugs, gambling, and promiscuity, just to name a few.
"The last two decades of the twentieth century were an abomination. In just twenty years the morals of our country quite literally fell into the gutter. Divorce has become a tragic reality for 60 percent of marriages today. Why has this happened?" He opened the Bible and began reading,“'For the love of money is the root of all evil; which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.' The love of money, this is the sickness that festers in our society today, and this is why I say you are getting married at a difficult time, indeed a perilous time."
Matt looked over and glared at me. I had suggested to Father Bob that money might be a good topic for his homily. We had a long discussion about materialism and the decay of the family. Matt shook his head and looked at Lynn who was rolling her eyes.
"Matt and Lynn, listen to my words. Your only hope of survival is your love of God and each other. Turn away from the temptations that surround you and keep your sights on the Lord. Live a modest, happy life . . . Avoid the lavish lifestyle that will lead you ultimately to the house of Satan."
Following the marriage ceremony there was a reception at the Dallas Country Club and then the newlyweds flew off to Cancun for a brief honeymoon. When they returned, they set in motion their plans for Matt's new bankruptcy practice. They incorporated the practice as Debt Relief Centers of Texas, P.C. They planned to open three offices initially in Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth. Each location had a staff of one attorney, a secretary, and a paralegal. Matt and I worked hard for several weeks setting up their systems and getting ready for the commencement of business. Finally, in mid-July they opened their doors.
Business was slow the first few days but picked up quickly as people began to spot their ad in TV Week. By the end of the month they had done twenty-one bankruptcies which were just four shy of their first month’s target. In August they did thirty-two which would have been good for most practitioners but it wasn't enough to cover the overhead of three offices. One afternoon in September, Matt, Lynn, and I met at their Dallas office to discuss the situation and to determine what needed to be done to ensure their survival and future success.
"We seemed to have leveled off at thirty to thirty-five bankruptcies. I really don't understand why," Matt said.
"That number should jump when the Dallas phone book comes out in December, don't you think?"
"Right, but that's nearly two months off. At the rate we're going we'll lose another twenty grand by then."
"I warned you two you were moving too fast," I said. “Bankruptcy is a tough business and there's a lot of competition. I'm sure the other bankruptcy firms have beefed up their advertising to keep you from stealing their business."
"That's the problem," Lynn said, "we're competing for the same amount of business that has always been out there. Somehow we've got to increase the number of bankruptcy filings and capture the new business so the existing firms won't feel threatened."
"How do you propose to do that?" I said.
"I'm working on some TV ads, but it's going to be expensive to air them. We don't have the money right now to do it."
"Don't look at me, I’m not going to invest in the competition," I said.
Matt shook his head and replied, "I guess I'll have to borrow some money from the bank. They've offered me a $50,000 line of credit."
"Do you have any idea how hard it will be to pay back that kind of money? If the TV campaign doesn't work, you'll be sunk."
"It will work," Matt said, and then looked at Lynn. "Won't it, honey?"
"I think so, but obviously there are no guarantees."
"I'm not looking for guarantees, just a good probability of success."
"Have you got the TV ads approved by the state bar?"
"We've submitted them but we haven't heard back yet," Matt said. "They're supposed to make a decision within thirty days, so we should be hearing soon."
"Well, it's your call,” I said. “I don't think I can add much to what has been said, so I'm going to go."
"What's your hurry?"
"I've got to get ready for a §727 trial tomorrow."
"Really, why is the trustee objecting to the discharge?"
"My client started a cosmetics business. It was one of those multi-level marketing deals. Unfortunately he neglected to get it properly licensed and the Attorney General shut him down. A lot of people lost their shirt."
"Was it like a pyramid scheme?"
"Kind of like that. Basically, the first guy signs up three or four people to sell product. They each have to buy some product themselves, of course. Then those people in turn sell to three or four other people. Each time the number of new salesmen multiplies. After six or seven levels there are literally thousands of salesmen in the down line. As a result, sales soar and profits increase geometrically."
"Pretty slick. Well, good luck at the trial."
"Thanks, I'll need it," I said, and then embraced Matt. Lynn smiled and gave me a hug.
Lynn said, "Thanks for your help, Dad. We really appreciate it."
Over the next thirty days the situation didn't change. Matt acquired his fifty thousand dollar line of credit so he could pay his bills and Lynn readied her TV commercials for airing. On Sunday night they cuddled in bed in front of their bedroom TV to watch the first commercial which was scheduled during the 10 o'clock news.
The first shot they saw was of a man at his desk paying bills. The camera focused on the huge stack of bills and the obvious distress of the man trying to pay them. Suddenly the man let out a cry of despair and with one swipe of his hand, sent the bills flying. Then he turned to the camera and said, "What's the use! There just isn't enough money to go around."
The scene changed to Matt's office where he is seated at his desk working. As the camera pans in on him, he stops what he is doing and addresses the audience. "If you've got more bills than you can possibly pay, it may be time to consider bankruptcy. The law says you have a right to a fresh start. Most people who finally file bankruptcy complain that they waited and suffered too long before they filed. You shouldn't make the same mistake. Give us a call for a free consultation to see if you're eligible to file."
The scene changed back to the man who was seen earlier. Now he is calm and tranquil and only a few bills are left on his desk. He looks up and says, "Since I filed bankruptcy, everything has been so much better. The phone has quit ringing, my wife and I are talking again and we're actually starting to save some money. What I keep asking myself is: why did I wait?"
Finally, the camera shifts back to Matt and he concludes, "If you can't pay your bills as they come due you're probably eligible to file bankruptcy. Call for a free consultation and we will be happy to tell you if bankruptcy is the answer for you. Give us a call at any of the three Debt Relief Centers from nine to five, Monday through Saturday. We're looking forward to helping you get out of debt and back on the road to financial security. Thank you."
At the conclusion of the commercial, Lynn looked over at Matt and smiled. "Well, what do you think?"
"It looked good to me, but I guess tomorrow morning we'll really find out how good it was."
"I'm scared, what if it's a bomb?" Lynn said.
"Then we'll punt and try something different."
"Yeah, but you'll have lost all of your savings and with all your student loans and the $50,000 you just borrowed. . . . You'll owe more than $100,000."
"I know and I couldn't file bankruptcy. That wouldn't be an option. I could never look my father in the eye again. It would be too humiliating."
"No, no way. You couldn't do that. We just have to make it work. We don't have any choice."
Matt and Lynn watched the rest of the news and, when it was over, shut off the TV and the lights and tried to go to sleep. It was a restless night for them both, tossing and turning, dreaming of success and failure until the first rays of sunlight entered their bedroom window. They were exhausted before they got up. At breakfast the conversation was brief; they just looked at each other wondering what the day would bring.
They got to the Dallas office at 8:45. The staff was just arriving and a fresh pot of coffee was brewing. Matt started sorting through his mail and faxes and Lynn chatted with the receptionist.
"So did you see the ad?" Lynn asked.
"Yes, I loved it," the receptionist said. "Rob, my boyfriend, watched it with me and he said he was thinking about filing."
"Really," Lynn laughed and then looked down at her watch. "Better take the phones off forwarding. It's nearly nine o'clock."
The receptionist picked up the phone, hit seven-three and then put the receiver down. Matt walked into the reception area and smiled at Lynn. She looked at him anxiously. The phones were quiet.
"A watched pot never boils. Let's just get to work."
Lynn sighed and then walked into the kitchen and pulled two cups out of the cabinet. Matt followed her and put his hands on her shoulders and began massaging her back. She closed her eyes and enjoyed his magical fingers. She loved to have Matt rub her back. The kitchen phone rang, she jumped and looked at Matt. They strained their ears to hear what the receptionist was saying. She hung up.
"Who was that?" Lynn yelled.
"Your envelopes are ready to be picked up at the printers."
"Oh . . . shit! I thought the ad was good. It's almost ten after nine and we haven't got one call."
"Maybe putting them in the 10 o'clock news was a bad idea."
"The station said that would be a good time."
"You know. The first ad isn't going to be enough to convince anyone to file bankruptcy. They're going to have to mull it over, think about it for a while. I bet it will be a few days before the phone starts ringing."
The phone rang again. This time the receptionist buzzed them in the kitchen. "New prospect on line two."
Lynn smiled as Matt picked up the line. As he was talking, the phone rang again. Lynn heard the receptionist refer the caller to the legal assistant. She walked into the legal assistant's office to confirm that it was new business. Satisfied that it was she went back to the kitchen, where Matt was just hanging up.
"Well?"
"He's coming in at two."
"Good. Did he see the ad?"
"No," Matt laughed. "He found us in the telephone book."
"Oh." Lynn said and then went to the counter and poured a cup of coffee. When she turned, the legal assistant was there smiling.
"Well, the guy on the phone said he saw the ad and decided to call us.
"So, is he coming in?"
"No, he just wants a free brochure."
"Oh," Lynn said and then took a sip of her coffee.
"What do you think I did wrong, Matt?"
"Nothing, just try to relax. It's just going to take some time."
The phones were only slightly more active the rest of the week. Lynn’s TV ads hadn't even increased business enough to pay for their cost. She didn't understand it. She watched them over and over again, trying to figure out why they weren't effective. Matt was very patient and supportive but she could tell he was scared. Their money was running out and it wouldn't be long before they would have to close the two satellite offices. She sat in her office, staring out the window when it hit her. She got up and walked into Matt's office.
"Honey," Lynn said. "I'm going over to SMU to talk to Professor Gray, my marketing professor. Maybe he can tell me what's wrong with the ad."
"That's a good idea, honey. He'll probably spot the problem right off."
"Okay, I'll be back before five."
"Good luck."
Lynn arrived at the SMU campus and parked. It was a warm July day with a light wind from the south. As she strolled past the Student Union, memories of her college days flooded her mind. She loved the majestic SMU campus with its giant trees and luscious grass. It was so shady she barely noticed the sweltering heat. As she neared her destination, she ran into a familiar face.
"Professor Swensen . . . Hi."
"Lynn, is that you?"
"Yes, it is."
"What brings you on campus?"
"I was going to see Professor Gray. I had him last semester for marketing and I needed a little advice."
"Oh. . . . So, I hear you got married."
"Yes, I met this wonderful guy, Matt Coleman. He's an attorney."
"Yes, I know. I saw him on TV."
"Oh, what did you think?"
"Frankly, I was disappointed."
"Oh, you were."
"Yes, I hate to see the legal profession stoop to such depths. What happened to professionalism?"
"This is the twenty-first century, professor. It's the age of electronics. Everybody advertises on TV."
"I know, but have you ever seen sharks circle a wounded whale, waiting to go in for the kill, and then fighting each other over the carcass? It's rather frightening and reminds me of what I saw Sunday night."
"But that's not what Matt's doing. He's trying to help all those people who are hopelessly in debt."
"But why? Why does he want to help them?"
"Because he cares."
"Ha!" the professor said. "Really, do you think everyone is stupid? Your husband is pleading, begging them to go bankrupt so he can make a nice fat fee. He doesn't give a damn about his clients. That's one thing that was obvious."
"Is that what it looked like?"
The professor nodded.
"Well, maybe that's why it didn't work. Matt came off as just another greedy attorney trying to get rich off of other people’s misery."
"Precisely. He's going to have to convince people he cares about them and not just making money in order to gain their trust. He has to be on a mission for truth and justice. I like the name of the practice, the Debt Relief Center. God knows people need relief from the interest trap."
"What do you mean, interest trap?"
"You know. We talked about it in class. From the day you are born you are indoctrinated on how important credit is to everyone. You're told over and over again that good credit is the secret to financial success and happiness in life. You're barraged with advertisements for all the expensive luxury items you can buy right now on credit and nearly everyone takes the bait.
“They get a house they can't afford, a luxury car they don't need, and run up a half dozen credit cards to the hilt. Before you know it you're a slave to the system. Most of your hard-earned money is going to banks and mortgage companies in interest payments. You pay and pay and pay, yet the balance you owe never goes down. Soon the joy is gone in your life—happiness is replaced with constant worry and depression."
"Jesus, that's depressing."
"But, am I wrong?"
"No, now that I think about it, you're right on the money. I can't believe the scam that's being played on the American people."
"Exactly, and if you put your husband on TV to expose that scam, then you'll get people's attention."
"Hmm, I'm glad I ran into you, professor. I guess I got what I came here for. I think I'll go back to the office and discuss what you said with Matt. I think he'll be excited. Do you mind if he calls you and discusses what we've been talking about?"
"No, by all means, have him call me."
"Do you have statistics and documentation of all of this?"
"Of course, I've been studying the phenomenon for years. I'd love to share it with Matt."
"Good, thanks again."
"Bye."
***
Lynn watched as the studio crew milled around while they waited for the shooting to begin. She smiled as she watched make-up being applied to Matt's face. Personally she didn't think he needed any make-up as he was quite handsome and photogenic. He was tall, trim, and had golden brown hair—thick like his father's. She thought he looked at home on the TV set. Finally the director snapped his fingers and the set became still. Matt got up and walked over to the podium set up before a live audience. The director nodded and a man stuck a board in front of the camera and said, "Scene two, take three."
Matt looked out into the audience and said, "Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Matt Coleman and what I'm about to tell you is going to make you very angry. I'm here to reveal to you a vicious lie, a deception that has devastated the lives of millions of Americans. Yes, from the day you were born, each and every one of you have been carefully manipulated into becoming slaves. Yes, carefully programmed robots who go to work every day and then religiously send seventy to 80 percent of your wealth to your masters, the big corporate giants of Wall Street and the government bureaucrats in Washington."
"Think about it. From the day you are born, you're told that good credit is your ticket to the American Dream. You can have all the luxuries and modern conveniences of life right now, on credit. Why wait, they say, when you can have it now."
"Think about it. Let's say you're a middle-class family with annual income of forty thousand dollars a year. If you work forty years, you'll earn 1.6 million dollars. If you're a typical family you'll buy a hundred and fifty thousand dollar home, a car every four or five years and have a half dozen credit cards maxed out very early in the game."
"Now the enemy here is compound interest. It's common knowledge that you'll pay nearly $315,000 over thirty years for that $150,000 home. The cars will cost you double their initial cost and you'll be paying the minimums on your credit cards until you’re dead and buried."
The camera zoomed in on Matt as he pointed to a chart he had prepared. "Now if you subtract 25 percent of your income for taxes that leaves you with $1,200,000. Subtract $314,000 for what you actually pay for your home, including all the interest, and now you only have $806,000. By the time you subtract $360,000 for your automobiles you have only $446,000 left to live on for 40 years!"
The crowd broke into excited chatter. Matt paused a second until they quieted down.
"That's only $11,150 a year for food, clothing, utilities, property taxes, insurance, recreation and your kid’s education. It's no wonder the average person is broke all the time—barely making ends meet! It's no wonder it takes two bread winners nowadays to survive! It's no wonder the divorce rate has gone to the roof and suicides are at an historical high!"
Someone in the crowd yelled, "That's right! Those bastards have made us their slaves."
"That's exactly right," Matt continued. "But there is a way out. There is a loophole they can't close. There is a way each and every one of you can get free!"
"Tell us what it is!" A lady screamed. "Tell us the way to salvation!"
"It's bankruptcy, my friends. That's right, bankruptcy."
The crowd was silent.
"Now most of you think bankruptcy is a bad word, right?"
"That's right, a bad word," a lady said.
"Who told you it was a bad word? Was it your mother and father? Your teachers in school, perhaps? Did you hear it from your friends and relatives? Well, the men up on Wall Street want you to think bankruptcy is a bad word. They want you to think if you file bankruptcy that you're a failure, a deadbeat, and a loser. They want you to feel this way for two reasons. Number one, if you go bankrupt you're going to be set free from the tyranny of compound interest. You won't have to line their pockets with your hard-earned cash anymore. And number two, if you file bankruptcy, you'll have bad credit and that will mean the goons on Wall Street won't be able to put you back on the compound interest treadmill!
“Ladies and gentlemen, bankruptcy is not a bad word, it's a sweet melodious word! It should fill your heart with gladness and joy for it is your salvation!"
The crowd stood up and gave Matt a standing ovation. Lynn ran over and Matt put his arm around her as they stood and waved to the crowd. The camera focused on their smiling faces and they panned around the crowd clapping and yelling wildly. After the session was over, the director came over and met with Matt and Lynn.
"That worked out quite well, don't you think?"
"Oh yes," Lynn said. "It was wonderful, but it was too long for a commercial."
"I know. What I would suggest is that we have a five minute infomercial on Sunday night. Then all week we'll feature ninety second segments with a short intro beforehand and then flash the name, address, and telephone number of your company at the end."
"Oh, I see," Lynn said. "That should be very effective. What do you think, honey?"
"You two are the experts. Whatever you think. But I don't mind telling you it felt good being out there saying what I did. Did you see how riled up the crowd got? . . . Now I know how it feels to be a politician. I could feel the power."
"Yes," the director said. "I think it will be a dynamite ad campaign. You did a fine job, Matt."
That night Matt and Lynn went out to dinner to celebrate. It was around eight when they were seated at the Outback Steak House in Addison. A waitress quickly appeared.
"What can I get you to drink?" she said.
"Two margaritas, please. Big ones," Matt said.
"Coming right up," the waitress said with a smile and then left.
"I think you hit a home run tonight, honey," Matt said.
"Me? You're the one that whipped the crowd into a frenzy."
"True, that was a lot of fun, but if you hadn't come up with the words I wouldn't have known what to say."
"You sounded like you believed what you were saying. Nobody will even guess it was just a script. Everybody's going to think you're some kind of consumer advocate or something."
"Who cares as long as the business rolls in, right? We're going to make a mint. Won't my father be surprised."
"He'll be jealous when he sees you making more money your first year out of law school than he's making after twenty-five years."
"No, you’re wrong about that. Dad won't be jealous. He makes a lot of money on the stock market. He'll be glad if what we're doing makes us happy and we're taking good care of our clients."
"Oh, I don't know. I bet he'll be a little jealous."
"Maybe," Matt said and then noticed the waitress coming with their drinks.
"Here you go. Two margaritas."
"Thank you,” Matt said, and then handed the waitress a twenty-dollar bill. "Keep the change."
The waitress smiled and said, "Thanks," and then left.
Matt lifted his glass and proclaimed, "I want to make a toast. To the beginning of a very lucrative law practice. Honey, I couldn't have done it without you. I love you."
"I love you too," Lynn said, and then they touched their glasses together and took a sip of their drink.
"Hmmm. These are good margaritas," Matt said.
Lynn nodded and took another sip. "Yes, very good."
After dinner they went to a nearby club, danced a little, talked, and continued to drink. By the time they got home, around midnight, they were feeling quite amorous so they went straight to the bedroom. They undressed each other quickly and jumped under the covers. They made love for hours until every ounce of their energy was spent.
When Matt awoke the next morning Lynn was still wrapped around him. He smiled and took a deep breath. Her smell was so sweet he pulled her up close and squeezed her gently. He had never felt so content—so happy. He had it all now—everything he had ever wanted.

CHAPTER 3

The phones began ringing before eight o'clock the day after the infomercial ran. The receptionist handed Matt eleven voice mail messages. When the phone came off service, it was all the entire staff could do just to keep up with it. In the afternoon the barrage of calls tapered off and Matt and Lynn began to assess the success of the ad.
"Look at this. We set up seventeen appointments this week. Can you believe it?" Lynn said.
"God, how will I do all these bankruptcies?"
"Hey, if it keeps up this good, you'll have to hire some more attorneys. Eventually you won't have to see clients at all. You can just supervise the operation."
"I know, but now I've got seventeen bankruptcies to do in the next five days."
"Well, you wanted a cash cow. Now you just have to learn how to milk it effectively. . . . How did the other offices do?"
"The same as us. They're booked solid for two weeks."
"Wow. I should call Dad."
"Good idea."
Matt went to the phone and dialed the number.
"Hey, did you see our TV spot?" Matt asked.
"What was that, anyway? I couldn't tell if it was a campaign rally or a sermon. It certainly wasn't a legal advertisement."
"I know, Dad. Our other ad wasn't going anywhere so we had to try something different."
"I can't imagine the State Bar Advertising Committee approved the ad."
"They didn't."
"What?"
"We didn't have time and we knew they wouldn't approve it."
"But Matt, that's stupid. They're going to be all over you."
"The station manager referred me to an expert on legal advertising and he told me with the format we used it wasn't really advertising. We never once solicited any business. It was simply a community service broadcast protected by the First Amendment."
"Maybe so, but the message was clear that you wanted them to call you."
"No, the message at the end of the broadcast simply gave the name of our firm and our telephone number. We never asked anybody to call us."
"Well, if you think the State Bar is going to let you get by with that, I think you're very naive."
"Maybe so, but I've got the best First Amendment lawyer in Texas ready to respond to anything the State Bar throws at us."
"I hope he's as good as you think he is."
"He is, so don't worry about it, Dad. . . . Now, aside from the unorthodox approach what do you think?"
"It was very persuasive, but I think you've oversimplified the problem. People need credit sometimes."
"True, but the banks and mortgage companies have crossed the line. They've become obsessed the last fifteen or twenty years with milking every last dollar out of the American people at whatever cost. It's time it stopped."
"Maybe so, but to suggest bankruptcy is a solution is rather extreme if not downright irresponsible. You should go into politics if you feel so strongly about it. Maybe in Austin or Washington you could help change the system."
"I doubt it. The only way to change it is for the people to rebel. They've got to hurt Wall Street in the pocketbook. That's the only language those people up there understand."
"Be careful, Matt. If they get hurt, they'll be looking for revenge. Don't let this thing get out of hand."
"I won't, Dad. I've got all the business I can handle so I won't be making any more waves. Lynn and I figure if the volume of business we're getting this week continues, we'll easily gross more than a million bucks. That's plenty. So all we have to do now is maintenance advertising, just a few spots each week."
"Well, I’m glad to hear that. I personally don't know why you need that kind of money anyway."
"Oh, don't worry, Dad," Matt laughed. "We'll figure out how to spend it."
For several weeks it took Matt and Lynn's every waking hour just to handle the business that was flowing in. Matt hired three new attorneys and five paralegals just to keep up with the voluminous paperwork generated by the ad campaign. Then one afternoon Matt got a phone call from the prominent radio talk show host, Mitchell Banks.
"I really love your ad campaign, Matt. May I call you Matt?"
"Sure, everybody does."
"When I first saw your infomercial, I was flabbergasted. I had never realized what a number Wall Street was doing the American people. What you said made so much sense, it was incredible."
"Well, actually we got the idea from a professor over at SMU. He has been preaching about the compound interest scam to his classes for years. I guess my wife, Lynn, is the first student who paid any attention to it."
"Well, it's very interesting and I want you to be on the show to explain it."
"Really?"
"Yes, absolutely. You're the talk of the town right now and I'd like to ask you some questions and let my audience do the same. It should be very interesting."
"Hmm. I don't know. I better talk it over with my wife and my Dad. You know how the State Bar watches everything you do. You can't be too careful."
"Well, that's one of the questions I wanted to ask you. How is the State Bar taking it?"
"I think we threw them a curve by not making any direct solicitation of business in the ad. I haven't heard from them at all."
"Lucky for you. . . . Well, will you do it?"
"I guess it couldn't hurt. It's a free country and I suppose I have a right to talk about whatever I want."
"Well, I hope so."
"Okay then. I'll do it."
"Fine. My people will be in touch to make the arrangements."
Lynn eyes lit up when Matt told her about the radio interview. She hadn't expected it. She listened intently to Matt's account of the conversation. She knew it was a dream come true for an ad to be so good it becomes news itself.
"I can't believe Mitchell Banks called you!"
"Why, what's so great about that?"
"He's only the number one talk show host in Dallas, Matt. Come on! Where have you been?"
"I don't listen to talk shows."
"Well a lot of people do and he's got the biggest audience in the Metroplex."
"He seemed like a nice guy."
"We're going to have to really prepare you for this interview."
"Prepare me?"
"Yes, he's going to ask you some very probing questions. I don't think right now you could pull this interview off. Maybe Professor Swensen will help me get you ready."
"You think so? He's got to be an extremely busy person."
"He is, but you've become his spokesman. For years he's been spouting off this theory and nobody has taken him seriously. But now you've managed to get the attention of the people of North Texas. He'll be delighted to help, I can assure you. We'll just have to be sure he gets the credit he deserves."
"I already told Mr. Banks about the professor so that shouldn't be a problem. The fact that a college professor came up with the theory should actually add considerable credibility to it, don't you think?"
"Yes, of course. I'm sure he's got lots of documentation and statistics to back up everything you've been saying. I'll call and talk to him this afternoon. I'm so excited. This is wonderful news."
"You know what's funny?"
"What?"
"When I was talking to him, I actually started believing some of the shit I’ve been preaching."
Lynn laughed. "Well you should, it's true and it's about time people started realizing it."
The Debt Relief Centers did so well over the coming weeks, Matt and Lynn opened up two new Metroplex offices to help handle the steady volume of business. They also hired a full time accountant to manage the firm's finances, which had become a full time job. They were also getting calls from attorneys around the state wanting to utilize the Debt Relief Center marketing approach and inquiring if franchises were available. All of this was a little overwhelming for Matt but Lynn was eating it up.
As the radio interview with Mitchell Banks drew near, Lynn took Matt to see Professor Swensen. As she predicted, he accepted with alacrity her request for help. For three solid days the three went over the professor's theories and backup documentation. As the professor shared his data, Matt and Lynn became more and more convinced of the veracity of the professor's theories. When the radio talk show began, Matt was ready.
"All right folks, this is what you've been waiting for. We've got attorney Matt Coleman here with us today. As you recall, Matt recently embarked on a revolutionary advertising campaign for bankruptcy lawyers. Essentially he's saying we should all file bankruptcy. Is that right Matt?"
"Well, no, of course not. What I'm saying is that many Americans are caught in a web that has paralyzed them. No matter how hard they work, no matter how frugally they live, they cannot extricate themselves from this money-sucking-web called compound interest."
"Well, interest isn't anything new. It's the price you pay to borrow money. So, what exactly are you referring to?"
"Madison Avenue has done a great job convincing the American people they should buy now and pay later. They told us we can afford the best right now simply by paying for it over time. This has been done intentionally without regard to what's good for the people. It's totally profit-motivated."
"Okay, so now the American people should get even by filing bankruptcy, is that what you're saying?"
"I'm saying if you're hopelessly in debt and realistically can never get out the compound-interest trap, then you have the perfect right to file bankruptcy. And you shouldn't feel bad about it because you've been the victim of a devious campaign to enslave you economically."
"Wow! That's pretty extreme, don't you think?"
"Not really. I believe it's the truth."
"You're telling us that the banks, mortgage companies, and other financial institutions in this country are consciously formulating and implementing policies to keep Americans in debt."
"Exactly. Look at the flood of credit card applications that come in the mail. They know if they tempt you enough they'll catch you in a weak moment and you'll fill in the application. They call you at home wanting you to open up an account. They accost you at the supermarket, at the airport, and in the department stores. They know once you have that little piece of plastic, you've been hooked. How long did it take you to max out the last credit card you got?"
"About a week or two," Banks laughed.
"You see?"
"Okay, but these people are over twenty-one. Nobody is putting a gun to their head."
"What they have is more powerful than a gun. It's an addiction. Just like the tobacco industry for years pulled the wool over the American public's collective eye, so have the banks and financial institutions in this country failed to warn the American people of the devastating, debilitating effects of credit and compound interest on their lives."
"Those are pretty strong words, don't you think?'
"No, what do you think is the leading cause of divorce?"
"I don't know—infidelity?"
"Wrong, it's money. Specifically the lack of money because the government, the banks, and other financial institutions of this country are bleeding the American people dry. Middle-class Americans are literally living lives of poverty while they send billions of dollars to the fat corporations on Wall Street."
"Well, the phones are lighting up so we better start taking some calls. . . . This is Mitchell Banks. You're on the air."
"Mitchell, this is Ernie from Carrollton."
"Hi, Ernie. What do you have on your mind?"
"I think Matt has hit the nail on the head. My wife and I work our tails off every month trying to make ends meet and it's virtually impossible. After I heard Matt's commercial I figured it up and we're living on $800 a month and paying $1300 on interest payments."
"Well, that certainly doesn't sound good," Banks said.
"And you know," Matt added, "that doesn't even take into consideration taxes does it?"
"No," the caller replied.
"So, you're actually living on five or six hundred dollars."
"Exactly."
"Does that make you mad?"
"Yes, I'm pissed."
"All right, let's hear from another caller," Banks said. "Okay, this is Mitchell Banks and you're on the air."
"Hi, Mitch, this is Frank from Plano. Listen. I work for a bank and frankly, I'm offended by Mr. Coleman's remarks. I'm not part of any conspiracy to rip off the American people."
"Well, I'm glad we have another viewpoint. Let me ask you, Frank, if someone is hopelessly in debt, do you think they should file bankruptcy?"
"No, we have what's called the American Consumer Counseling Service or ACCS. This is a nonprofit organization designed to help consumers establish a budget and manage their debt responsibly. Bankruptcy is a ten-year mistake."
Matt chuckled.
"You're laughing, Matt," Banks said. "You obviously don't agree with the caller."
"ACCS is a fraud."
"A fraud?"
"You heard me. They're Wall Street's way of dealing with people who have been milked dry. Instead of letting them file bankruptcy like they need to do, they came up with ACCS to try to keep them in the system. You see, the ACCS counselors show them how they can cut their meager little budgets even more and continue to feed the banks and mortgage companies the 18 to 25 percent interest that they demand. You know, there used to be usury laws in this country and it was illegal to get a second lien on your homestead, but not anymore. The banking and finance lobby is so strong, usury laws are gone and now lenders can even steal the equity in your homestead. There's no protection at all for the average consumer."
“So, you think it was a mistake to repeal the constitutional prohibition on borrowing money on a homestead?”
“Oh God, yes. Now, every day, consumers are barraged with advertisements for debt consolidation loans. They are loans supposedly designed to get you out of the interest-trap, but they are just new loans that will do nothing but exacerbate the situation. The sad aspect of home equity lending is that many consumers will become homeless when they get to the point they can’t make the payments on the home equity loan anymore.”
"Wow. Very enlightening. . . . All right, folks," Banks said. "Our time is up. Thank you, Matt Coleman, for a very interesting interview. Good luck with your new bankruptcy practice.
“Okay, everybody . . . Stay tuned for our next guest on the Mitchell Banks Show, Dr. Phyllis Wakefield, to tell us about her new book entitled, There's No Shame in Lying."
Matt got up, shook hands with Mr. Banks and then went backstage where Lynn was waiting. When she saw him, she ran up and gave him a big hug and kiss.
"You were great, honey. I'm so proud of you."
"You think so?"
"Oh yes, everybody in the studio commented how persuasive your arguments were. One of the sound men came up to me and made an appointment to come in to file bankruptcy."
"You're kidding?"
"No."
"Well good, the day wasn't a total waste of time then."
"Hardly, I just don't know what we're going to do if we get any more business, though. We can't keep up with what we already have."
"Maybe we should refer some over to Dad."
"Good idea. I'll tell the receptionist if we get booked too far out to refer clients to your father for a while."
"I'd like to be there to see his face when the phone starts ringing off the hook. He's going to hate me."
"Hate you? He should be grateful for your generosity."
"I know, but he may not see it that way."
"Too bad."
"You know I'm exhausted from all our preparations for this show and everything. Why don't we take the rest of the day of and go home and, you know . . . take a nap?"
Lynn smiled and replied, "You know what we really should do is take a vacation. You've been working fourteen hours a day for the last few months. You need some time off."
"True, but do you think the staff can handle things without us?"
"I should hope so. If not, then we're nothing but slaves to the law practice we've created. I thought the idea was to get rich so we could enjoy the finer things in life."
"Okay then," Matt said. "Where should we go?"
"Somewhere far away where there aren't any telephones."
"Hawaii?"
"Yeah, Hawaii's nice but it's a tourist trap. My Dad was telling me about a place in Alaska where they fly you into a magnificent lake surrounded by snow capped mountains. They leave you there all alone for a week and then come and get you. He says it’s the most beautiful place on earth and this time of year the temperature is in the sixties and seventies."
"A week all alone, just you and me and no phones. When do we leave?"
"With a little luck we could be out there by the weekend."
"Good, I'm ready."
 

CHAPTER 4

Houston, Texas

It was early afternoon at the United Mercantile Bank Building in downtown Houston. The weekly board meeting was about to begin. Several hostesses were passing out coffee, cold drinks, and mineral water to the members who were milling around and making final preparations for the meeting. Suddenly the doors opened and MidSouth’s executive vice-president, Douglas Barnes, a trim, deliberate man in a grey suit, entered the room with an entourage of assistants. He took up a position near the head of the long conference table and waited stone-faced for the meeting to begin. Finally the inside door opened and Frank Hill, the chairman of the board, walked in and sat at the head of the conference table.
"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Let's get down to business, shall we? Are there any corrections to the minutes of last week's meeting?” Hill looked around but nobody said a word. ”Hearing none, they are approved. . . . Mr. Barnes, I believe you are first on the agenda."
Hill sat and Barnes stood up to address the meeting. "Yes, sir. I’ve been in Dallas this last week to find out why bankruptcy filings in the Northern District are up thirteen percent in the last quarter."
"Yes, that's very disturbing. What did you find out?"
"Well, it seems there is a new attorney, Matt Coleman, who has launched a very effective marketing campaign to promote his bankruptcy practice. His wife is a marketing major and, along with a finance professor at SMU, has been helping him."
"What could they possibly be doing to cause bankruptcy filings to increase so much?"
"They're convincing people that they are the victims of a conspiracy by banks and financial institutions to enslave them economically and that the only way out is to file bankruptcy."
"You can't be serious? How ridiculous," the chairman said.
"Obviously, Mr. Chairman, but a lot of people are taking him seriously, and not only is Mr. Coleman doing a booming business, but everyone in Dallas is benefitting from his campaign."
"So, Mr. Barnes, is this just an aberration or do we have a problem?”
"Well, Mr. Coleman is starting to get some press and attorneys around the state are beginning to take notice. Because we have been marketing heavily in the Dallas Metroplex area, we are getting hit harder than anyone. So, yes, I'm afraid we do have a problem. Our default rate is already at 15% and rising at an alarming rate. If it gets over 20%, we’ll be in serious trouble."
"What course of action do you suggest?"
"The State Bar of Texas is scratching its head on how to deal with the situation. I think we should put some heat on them to put a lid on Mr. Coleman."
"Good idea. Do you think that will work?"
"Hopefully, but if they fail, then we need to have an alternative plan."
"Of course, what did you have in mind?"
"Well, I can foresee several potential problems for Mr. Coleman in processing so many bankruptcies. With so many people filing just to free themselves from this financial bondage, I would imagine a few people might fudge a little and fail to disclose an asset or two, don't you think?"
"Quite possibly. How do we monitor that situation to make sure it doesn't happen?"
"We've got someone at the bankruptcy trustee's office checking Mr. Coleman's filings very carefully and they'll keep in close contact with the FBI and report anything suspicious."
"Excellent. What if nothing turns up?"
"Well, since Mr. Coleman is making so much money, he might have trouble keeping track of all of it. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if he might forget to report all his income on his income tax return. After all, someone who holds financial institutions in such contempt obviously wouldn't like the government much either. I think the IRS should be alerted to keep an eye on him also."
"I presume you can handle that for us."
"Consider it done, sir."
"Thank you. Now, what’s next on the agenda?"
At the conclusion of the meeting, Douglas Barnes and his entourage left immediately for the airport to return to Dallas. When they arrived, they went to the Adolphus Hotel, where they had set up a temporary office in the name of American Creditor’s Alliance. Barnes was going through his messages when his secretary announced Hans Schultz was there to see him. Schultz was an ex-Marine turned private eye. He had been court-martialed and dishonorably discharged for disobeying his commanding officer in Desert Storm. Barnes told her to show him in.
"Hans, how are you?" he asked, as he stood and extended his hand.
"Just fine, sir," Schultz said as they shook hands.
"Thanks for getting here so quickly."
"No problem, what can I do for you?"
"We've got a little trouble here in Dallas. A young attorney has started a campaign against banks and financial institutions alleging a conspiracy to economically enslave the American people."
"That's very perceptive for an attorney."
"True, unfortunately a lot of people are starting to listen to him and, as a result, local bankruptcy filings are way up."
"Huh. So what would you like me to do, send him on a long vacation?"
"No, that wouldn't be wise. He's too much in the public's eye right now. I just need you to follow him around and keep an eye on him. We need to know where he is and what he’s doing at all times. If he happens to do something compromising, make sure the press hears about it."
"Sure, I understand. No problem."
"We have to bring this guy down hard. And it's got to be done in public to set an example. We don't want to go to all the trouble to get rid of him and then have other attorneys turn around and adopt his marketing plan. We've got to nip this thing in the bud before it becomes a serious problem."
"Don't worry. I'll take care of my end."
"Good. Report back to me every few days, okay?"
"I will," Schultz said.
After Schultz had left, Barnes pressed his intercom button and told his secretary to get Peter Robinson on the line. Robinson was general counsel to the State Bar of Texas.
"Robinson."
"Mr. Robinson, this is Douglas Barnes from the American Creditor’s Alliance."
"Yes, what can I do for you?"
"Our organization represents hundreds of financial institutions around the country and, frankly, our members are outraged at the publicity campaign of that young upstart attorney, Matthew Coleman."
"Oh, yes. I can imagine."
"I've been asked to find out what the State Bar intends to do about this irresponsible member of the bar. Surely you can't let him get away with such a vicious attack on our financial institutions."
"Well, we're looking into the situation right now. Technically he’s not seriously breaching any ethical duties."
"So what are you going to do?"
"Well, we don't know yet. We're studying the matter."
"Do you realize bankruptcy filings are up 30 percent in the Northern District? You know what that means to the members of our institutions in dollars and cents. This ad campaign is illegal, unethical, and totally irresponsible. The State Bar is supposed to police its member’s advertising and make sure it is professional and not misleading. We demand that something be done, and done quickly."
"I totally understand the concern of your members. The State Bar will do something, but it will take a little time to study options and come up with the best strategy. There are a lot of complicated legal issues here."
"I understand, but our members are losing thousands of dollars a day and they can't wait indefinitely. We'll be forced to take action ourselves if the State Bar doesn't act soon. I know there's been a movement to take control of the bar away from the members and set up a state agency to oversee it. If this isn't resolved soon, our organization may have to throw its support behind that movement."
"That won't be necessary. Just give us a few more days and something will be done."
"Good. Would you give me a call just as soon as a course of action is adopted?"
"Yes, of course."
"All right then. I'll be waiting to hear from you."

CHAPTER 5

The Cessna 172 took off from Juneau airport and headed out over the rugged mountains toward Glacier Bay. The young bush pilot taking Matt and Lynn to Paradise Camp had indicated it was about a forty minute flight from Juneau. As they flew, they marveled at the rugged snow-covered peaks, vast forests, and raging streams below. They saw deer feeding in the meadows, bears frolicking in mountain streams, and moose running across treeless mountain tops. Time went quickly and the pilot was soon pointing to a lake on the horizon. He pushed the controls forward and the plane began to descend toward its watery runway. When it was over Paradise Lake, he pulled back on the throttle and the plane settled into the frigid water and quickly came to a stop.
The pilot swung the plane around and began to taxi toward a cabin in the distance. As they got closer, Matt saw a small dock protruding out from the bank. The plane taxied up close to it, then the pilot cut the engine and let the plane drift up to the dock. After he had the plane tied up, he waved for them to come on out. Matt climbed out and jumped onto the dock. Then he turned and helped Lynn deplane. Matt looked around wide-eyed at the surroundings.
"Wow! Look at this place, honey. Isn't it beautiful?"
"Oh, yes. This is wonderful. It's like a postcard."
The pilot unloaded the luggage onto the dock, picked up a couple of pieces and started carrying them to the cabin. Matt took what was left and followed him. When they got to the cabin door, the pilot set the luggage down and unlocked the door.
"I came by this morning and restocked the pantry," the pilot said. "You should have plenty of food, and the propane tank is three quarters full. The water up here is excellent so drink to your heart's content."
"Okay, this is great," Matt said.
"This time of year it doesn't get below fifty at night, so you shouldn't be too cold. If you like to fish, there's fishing gear in the closet. You can fly fish or use lures. This lake doesn't get much activity so either way the fishing should be excellent. There's a Jon boat if you like or you can fish off the shore."
"What about hiking?"
"I wouldn't wander off too far from the lake as it's easy to get lost up here. If you hike around the lake, it’s about three miles so that should give you plenty of exercise."
"Is there anybody up here at all?" Lynn said.
"There's an Indian family about a mile from here. They maintain this place for us. You can contact them in an emergency. They have a shortwave radio."
"Good. I can't imagine anything happening, but it's comforting to know we're not totally isolated out here."
"I'll come check on you a couple times during the week. Don't leave any food out and put your garbage in the sealed disposal containers in your cabin. There are grizzly bears in the area and, if they smell food, they'll come looking for it."
"Are they dangerous?"
"Only if you provoke them. There's a shotgun in the cabin. If any animal bothers you, just shoot the gun a few times in the air and they'll leave you alone. Don't shoot at them directly though. If you don't kill them, they're liable to get really pissed off."
"We'll leave them alone," Matt said. "I've camped in the Colorado Rockies many times so we should be okay."
"Good. Most of the time this is the quietest place on earth."
"That's why we came up here," Lynn said.
"Well, I'm going to get along. I'll see you in a couple of days. You two have fun."
"We will, definitely," Matt said.
The pilot smiled and shook Matt's hand. He nodded at Lynn and then went out the front door. Matt and Lynn watched as he climbed back in his plane and took off. When he had disappeared, Matt took Lynn's hand and pulled her to him. They embraced and kissed passionately.
"This is going to be a great week," Matt said after their lips parted.
"Umm," Lynn replied, her cheeks slightly flushed.
"We can catch up on our lovemaking."
"You promise?"
"Absolutely, we'll start right after I go fishing."
"What?!"
"Just kidding," Matt said as he pulled Lynn up close and began to unbutton her blouse. She gave him a wry smile and led him into the bedroom to the big king size bed that lay waiting for them. There was a fireplace with wood neatly stacked, ready to be lit. Matt found a match and lit the fire. Lynn drew the shades and they finished undressing and got under the covers. As their bodies came together, Lynn sighed.
"Oh God! You feel so good. I love you so much."
Matt kissed her gently and replied, "Me too. This is going to be a great week."
They made love for hours until they were so exhausted they fell into a peaceful sleep in the comfort of each other's arms. They had slept a few hours when they were awakened by the sound of an airplane. Matt got up and looked outside. It was still light but he didn't see any sign of a plane.
"It sure sounded like the airplane landed, didn't it?" Matt said.
"I thought so, but I guess it just flew by," Lynn replied.
"Are you hungry?" Matt asked.
"Starved."
"Okay, lets go see what there is to eat."
"Go ahead. I'll be right there."
Matt pulled on some boxer shorts and headed for the kitchen. Lynn yawned, stretched, and then put on a T-shirt. For a moment she just stared at the embers smoldering in the fireplace. She wondered if this was the happiest day of her life. She couldn't think of a single moment of her existence that she would cherish more. She sighed and then joined Matt in the kitchen.
Matt was taking a mental inventory of the contents of the refrigerator. It was loaded with meat, milk, vegetables, condiments, beer, and soft drinks.
"How about a steak?" he asked.
"Fine."
"You want a beer?"
"Okay."
Matt brought her a beer and then proceeded to make supper while Lynn watched him from a big stuffed chair across the room. She usually did all the cooking, so it was a great amusement to her to watch Matt fumble around the kitchen.
"You need some help?" she asked.
"No, I've got it under control. You just relax."
"You're so sweet fixing us supper. Are you going to do all the cooking this week?"
He smiled. "Don't press your luck. I'm just feeling grateful after having such great sex."
"Hmm. You enjoyed that, huh?"
Matt winked at her and replied, "Well. I'll just say, I'm glad I didn't go fishing."
Lynn stretched and gave a sexy moan. "I don't want to ever go back to Dallas. Lets just stay here forever."
"You won't get any argument from me," Matt replied.
When supper was finished, they took their plates outside to a picnic table just outside the cabin. By this time it was after nine o'clock, but it was still daylight.
"Boy, can you believe it's still light?" Matt said.
"Yeah, I wish we had all this daylight in Dallas. The crime rate would probably plummet."
"No doubt."
"We should make this an annual ritual, don't you think?" Lynn said.
"Well, once we get our staff properly trained, we should be able to take a lot of vacations. After all, what's the point of being rich if you don't enjoy life, right?"
"Exactly."
After supper they got some fishing gear out of the cabin and tried their luck off the dock. It was just starting to get dark and the flies and mosquitos were swarming. Matt cast his line out about twenty yards out and waited. Nothing happened so he reeled it in and tried again. The line sailed gracefully through the air and the lure hit the water. Immediately a fish attacked the little yellow-and-black fly and was hooked.
"I’ve got one!" Matt yelled as the fish jumped out of the water.
Lynn smiled and immediately picked up the net. Matt worked the fish in until it was close enough for Lynn to sweep it into the net. He pulled out the hook and held it up. It was bluish green and about eighteen inches long.
"What kind is it?" Lynn asked.
"Some kind of trout, I think."
Lynn picked up her rod and cast it out into the water and just as quickly she hooked a fish.
"Oh my God! I've got one too!" she said as the much bigger fish jumped out of the water and then fell back, causing a big splash.
"Don't lose it, honey!"
"I won't—it's just so big! Jesus!"
After several minutes, Lynn brought the big fish close enough to the dock for Matt to net it. He pulled it up on the dock and held it up.
"Wow, look at the size of it," Lynn said.
"It must be thirty inches."
"That's good, huh?"
"I guess so."
"Hurry up and take it off, I want to catch another one."
Matt laughed at Lynn's enthusiasm and quickly removed the fish. She immediately cast it again to the same spot. Matt looked at the sky which was quickly turning dark. Lynn landed another fish and reeled it in.
"I think we better call it a night. I don't want to be out here in the dark with fresh fish."
"Oh, you're just mad because I've caught more than you."
"No, I'm serious. Grizzly bears can smell fresh fish a mile away."
"Oh. Good point," Lynn replied. "Let's get these fish into the refrigerator then."
Sunrise the following day came very early. Matt and Lynn tried to ignore the bright sunlight that came flooding into their cabin. Lynn finally opened her eyes and gazed at Matt sleeping soundly. She smiled, yawned, and rolled out of bed. Since Matt had prepared dinner, she decided to give him breakfast in bed. She went into the kitchen, opened the refrigerator, and pulled out a carton of eggs and a pound of bacon. She set them near the stove and then pulled out a loaf of bread from the cupboard. After putting on some water to make coffee, she pulled open the curtain over the sink to see what kind of day it was.
"Ahhhh!" She screamed as a man was standing in front of the window looking at her.
Matt sat up and looked around. "What's wrong?"
"Somebody's out there!"
"What?” Matt said, and then jumped out of bed and rushed toward Lynn. “We're supposed to be alone up here."
"I got news for you—we're not."
Matt put on some jeans and a T-shirt and hurried out the front door. He looked around and, not seeing anyone, he circled the cabin and scanned the forest in every direction. Finally, he came back inside.
"He must have run off. What did he look like?"
"He was a tall, muscular man—his head was shaven."
"How old?"
"In his thirties, I would imagine."
"Could he have been one of the Indians up here?"
"No, he was white."
"Damn it! I can't believe this. I wonder where he's camped?"
"Maybe he came in on that airplane we heard."
"Maybe. After breakfast we can hike around the lake and see if we can find the camp or the plane."
"But we don't know who he is or what he wants."
"He probably means us no harm, but I'll bring the shotgun just in case."
"I don't know. Maybe we should just leave him alone."
"Maybe so, but I won't be comfortable until I know who's out there and what they're doing."
"Okay, whatever," Lynn said and then went back into the kitchen to finish breakfast. Matt went into the bathroom, shaved, and then finished getting dressed. During breakfast, neither Lynn nor Matt had much to say. Each was worried about the unexpected visitor.
After breakfast, Matt found the shotgun, some ammunition, and a pair of binoculars. Lynn did the dishes while he was getting ready for their hike around the lake. As they began their trek, it was a little chilly as a layer of cirrus clouds filtered the sun’s rays. Someone had cleared a trail around the lake so the hike was quite pleasant.
"If the sun would burn off the cloud cover it would be a nice day," Matt said.
"You think it will? I'm freezing."
"I don't know. Hopefully."
The trail went up a small hill and at the top they could see the entire north end of the lake. The hikers stopped, and Matt took a look around with his binoculars.
"Do you see anything?"
"Not yet," Matt said as he swung the binoculars slowly around the perimeter of the lake.
"I wonder who that guy was?"
"I'm clueless . . . wait. . . . What's that?" Matt said as he focused on a glistening object at the back of a cove.
"What is it?" Lynn asked.
"It's an airplane."
"Oh, shit."
"Single engine, red and white—a Cessna."
"So we did hear a plane land last night. I wonder who it belongs to."
"Your friend, Baldy, I'm sure."
"Do you think he's watching us?"
"It looks that way. Maybe he's planning to rob us?"
"Rob us!" Lynn said. "We should go back to camp. I bet he's stealing us blind while we're gone."
"Oh, shit! You may be right."
As they turned to head back to camp, they heard an engine turning over. They turned just in time to see the airplane taking off at the far end of the lake. It flew straight toward them, over their heads, and then disappeared over a hilltop.
"Thank God he left," Lynn said
"Let's make sure everything is okay back at the cabin," Matt replied.
They hiked quickly back toward the cabin. When they arrived, they looked around outside and then went in. They took a gaze around the room and inspected all their things. Lynn looked at Matt, breathed a sigh of relief and said, "I guess we're getting paranoid."
"It looks that way," Matt laughed. "Let's just forget this happened and start the day over, okay?"
"Good idea," Lynn said and opened the door to go outside. "Ahhhh!" She screamed as she nearly ran into a dark-skinned man standing in the doorway."
"Excuse me, Ma'am."
Matt rushed over and jumped between Lynn and the big Indian.
"Who are you?" Matt asked.
"I'm Tali Aku, I live here on the lake with my family. Sorry if I startled you."
"Oh, you're the caretaker," Lynn said.
"Yes."
"Did you know a man was looking in the window of our cabin this morning?" Lynn asked.
"Yes, I heard the plane land. I've been searching for it since dawn. When I finally found it, I told the two men who were camping that this was a private lake and they must leave."
"Oh, so that's why the plane left?"
"Yes."
"Was one of the men bald headed?"
"Yes, his name was Hans or something. I heard him talking to his friend."
"Hans?" Lynn said. "Hmmm."
"Anyway, I just wanted to make sure they hadn't disturbed you."
"No, not really," Matt said. "They just startled us. We weren't expecting company."
"I don't think they will be back, but I'll keep a close watch just in case."
"Thank you," Lynn replied. "We really appreciate it."
Matt wasn’t too concerned about the unexpected visitors. He figured they had nothing to do with him or Lynn and was anxious to resume their quiet holiday. Lynn, however, was troubled by it all and couldn't sleep that night. She didn't want to upset Matt and spoil his vacation, but she didn't buy the idea that the plane had just accidentally landed on Paradise Lake. She had an ominous feeling about Hans. She wondered who had sent him and what they wanted