When she finally returned down the stairs, Scotty had lowered the screen and window and had shut the door. She saw her books on the side table. He was looking around her living room and she was suddenly proud of how fine their house was when she saw the look of admiration in his eyes.

"This is nice."

Mama had gotten a cool living room set, which was made of soft tan fur. The cocktail and side tables were wooden and surrounded by the same fur. A huge plush white rug was ...