The waiting room smelled of antiseptic and peppermint tea, a place where time seemed to slow on purpose. Three elderly men sat side by side, coats folded neatly, canes resting at their feet. Dr. Halpern smiled as he prepared a routine memory test. Nothing scary—just a gentle check. Mr. Arthur straightened proudly, ready to prove he was still sharp.
“Arthur,” the doctor asked, “what is three times three?” Arthur frowned, lips moving as he searched for the answer. After a long pause, he announced confidently, “Two hundred and seventy-four!” The doctor nodded politely and wrote it down. Arthur beamed, clearly pleased.
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