Almost reflexively, Vivian stepped out of the bathroom.

As Brevard's voice echoed from the phone, the sound of running water in the bathroom ceased.

It turned out Ethan had dialed Brevard before he even entered the bathroom, and the call had just been picked up.

The call was on speaker, and Brevard's voice filled the room, "What's the matter, Mr. Benton? Calling me at this late hour, are you done playing with your little simpleton?"

Ethan's voice was filled with ...