The heavy footsteps overhead crossed the subfloor above the hallway and stopped directly over the hearth.

I came around the stair railing into the living room.

Harper was standing on the brick hearth by the fireplace with two polished brass business plaques in her arms.

David’s oak military commendation frame lay face down on the sofa cushion next to her.

“The shade of the brass matches Julian’s corporate logo,” Harper said, lining the first metal plaque up against the chimney brick.

“It makes the room look much more professional when his private clients walk in.”