While her client called from a landline, Lizzie called her insurance company and reported the accident. "Yes, Mr. Richardson, it was my fault, but the owner's car was parked over the white line so I didn't have enough maneuvering room. I really don't know who the owner is. I left my card and your number. I also called the police and reported it. I was in their parking lot but was late for an appointment, so I couldn't wait. Fine, you know how to reach me."

Ted thought Lizzie was going to start to purr at any moment.

Lizzie sat down in a deep sofa that was so comfortable she sighed. The room was pleasant, with no clutter at all. The floors were oak and polished. The sofa and two chairs were covered with a nappy material that had little nubs all over it. A vase of wilted yellow flowers sat in the middle of the coffee table. The only other color in the room was in the three oversize lemon yellow pillows and the two watercolors that were so vibrant they made her blink. She did notice that there were no photographs, no junky mementoes on the mantel or on any of the little tables. The ficus tree in one corner looked like it needed to be watered, as did the other plants.

From her position on the sofa, Lizzie could see into the dining room. The table was loaded with books, folders, and legal pads. Teaching materials, she thought. Or else her study materials for a dissertation.

Marble Rose walked into the living room. "I don't want to sit down, if that's all right with you. I want to burn this outfit and wash the stink of jail off me. Do you understand?"

"Of course. This won't take long. I just need to ask you a few questions. We'll set up a meeting for tomorrow morning."

"Okay, fire away," Marble Rose said.

Lizzie looked at the attractive woman standing in front of her. "Who are you, Marble Rose Barnes?"

Marble Rose Barnes sat down in the middle of the floor and crossed her legs. Floors could be buffed and polished. No stink would stay on the floor, as opposed to the fabric-covered furniture.