A Twist for the Swindlers Behind the Old Lady

A Surprise for the Scammers Behind the Old Lady
The swindlers were delighted when a frail, ninetyyearold woman opened the door for them. Then, suddenly, a huge dog named Gaston appeared behind her
Sophie Marceau was certainly elderly, but still very much in her element. At ninety she kept in touch with her grandchildren via Skype and paid her bills online. Why waste time standing in line at the post office? she would say.
She had lost her husband twelve years earlier. Only the company of an equally aged dog, Gastona peculiar name her late husband had chosenbrightened her days. Every morning and evening the neighborhood watched Sophie shuffle slowly, a cane in one hand and Gastons leash in the other. The leash was mainly a comfort; despite his formidable size, Gaston had never bitten anyone, even in his younger years.
Sophie knew that seniors living alone were prime targets for fraudsters. First her grandchildren warned her, then the local precinct chief, and later she read articles online. A few months back a friend had called in tears, recounting how shed been swindled out of her savings.
So when the doorbell rang, Sophie was wary. Two twentysomething youthsone boy, one girlstood on the step, claiming to work for social services.
I didnt ask for anyone, Sophie said, eyes sharp.
Were the ones who came to you, the boy grinned broadly. Tell me, did you buy anything at the pharmacy last month?
Of course. At my age Im in the pharmacy as often as the grocery store! Ninety isnt a trifle! Sophie replied, ready to list her purchases and their effects for hours.
The youngsters were uninterested.
Youre eligible for a state compensation! Its a new government program. Let us in, pull out your receipts, and well verify everything, the girl offered.
Sophie smiled inwardly. She recognized the ploy: strangers enter, one distracts while the other rummages through the house.
Thats exactly what happened. The pair stepped into the living room, and the girl asked Sophie to accompany her to the kitchen for a glass of water.
Certainly, dear! And you, young man, Gaston will keep you company, Sophie said with a smile.
At that moment Gaston, roused and alert to the strangers, entered. Despite his advanced age, his imposing bearing filled the room.
Sophie and the girl left the kitchen. Gaston slowly approached the boy, fixing him with an intense stare.
Try to search and Ill bite your head off, the dog seemed to warn. The young man froze, too frightened to move.
Naturally, after that reception, the duo remembered an urgent matter and hurried to the door.
And that medication compensation? Sophie asked, a mischievous grin on her face.
Well get back to you, the girl stammered, making a beeline for the exit.
Sophie watched the departing impostors with a stern gaze, shut the door, patted Gaston, and called the police to report the supposed social agents.