The master bedroom was quiet when I came in at six forty-five.

The blue velvet box lay open on my vanity, its satin lining empty where my diamond brooch with the platinum filigree had sat for three years.

I went to the dark mahogany wardrobe and slid back the double doors to search through the coat rack.

Spencer came in from the hallway, pulling off his tie as he crossed the silk rug.

He slowed down when he saw me standing by his row of suits.