The courier’s call was a convenient interruption. "Ms. Bento? You have several parcels that require a signature. Could you come down, please?"

Violet peered through the car window and saw the delivery man standing a short distance away, a small cart laden with boxes beside him. She turned to Michael, her expression one of helpless appeal. "Michael, could you possibly help me? One of these is a replacement light bulb. The one in my foyer shattered, and it's been so dark…"

Michael remained ...