Chapter 21

Even more pink. Why wasn’t I surprised? It contained an overstuffed easy chair and ottoman, an artificial fireplace, a floor lamp, and a small table with Elle, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan fanned out over the surface. The most current issue was at least ten months old.

“It’s a nice use of space,” Mrs. Mann was saying. “I assume the fireplace is included?”

“I think the…owners might be persuaded to include it. Now, the guest bathroom is right through here. Shall we?”

The door to the bathroom was beside the closet. It opened to reveal a single vanity with marble top and chrome fixtures, the john, and a tub and shower with a glassed-in enclosure.

“It’s a little small, don’t you think, Mark?”

I shrugged. I wouldn’t be using it. She frowned at me, and I realized she was setting up a bargaining chip.

“You’re right, hon. Mrs. Mann. What, no bidet?”