The gift was a notebook computer. And with it, a computer desk, bookshelf, table light, etc. Kate watched the delivery guys in and out, moving the furniture and changing the empty room into a study. Laura instructed the workers to install the curtains and asked her if she likes the color of them.

She was puzzled, and Laura said, "This will be your study. Mr. Fox didn't tell you? He might want to give you a surprise."

The room was fixed and cleaned. Kate sat down at the desk. The ...