I didn't see Elise until close to noon. I had already checked the kitchen twice, telling myself I was just grabbing coffee, but the third time she was there. She stood at the counter in dress pants, a crisp blouse, and a blazer, looking every bit like she was heading into court.
A mug of coffee and a plate with toast and fruit sat in front of her. She looked put-together and focused, the way she always did when work was on her mind.
I stopped in the doorway, suddenly feeling awkward in my own house. "You heading somewhere?"
She glanced up, surprised for half a second, then shook her head. "Just a video conference with a client at two. I hope you don't mind if no one comes into the conference room while I'm on the call. I need it quiet."
"The conference room is yours for the whole day if you need it," I said, trying to sound casual and failing. "Take as long as you want."
