Mark argued at first.

He insisted the visit was a misunderstanding, then complained that I was interfering in his finances.

When the detective explained the nature of the investigation, he grew quiet.

I heard fragments of words from the dining room: documents, identity, insurance, records.

I didn’t try to listen at the door.

I sat with Emma on the sofa while she described what she’d draw first with her new pencils.

A small dog in a yellow raincoat, she decided.