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Billy came up behind her “I always say if one can’t be happy in this apartment, one can’t be happy anywhere” Even Mindy was unable to co, Billy thought, what he called “the ache” It was part of the pain of living in Manhattan, this overwhel ache for pris—lie, stay in es that were over, prostitute themselves, even commit murder “What do you think?” he asked Annalisa

Annalisa’s heart was racing What she thought was that she and Paul must buy the apartment now, this afternoon, before anyone else saw it and wanted it as well But her trained lawyerly mind prevailed, and she kept her cool “It’s wonderful Certainly soetting the apartment lay in the hands of this juhtly out of her head “My husband, Paul, is so particular,” Annalisa said “He’ll want to see the building’s financials”

“It’s a top-notch building,” Mindy said “We have the highest e credentials” She opened the French doors and went onto the terrace Looking over the side, she had a clear view of the corner of Enid Merle’s terrace “Have you seen this view?” she called to Annalisa

Annalisa ca on the prow of a ship sailing over a sea of Manhattan rooftops “Gorgeous,” she said

“So you’re from…?” Mindy asked

“Washington,” Annalisa said “We moved here for Paul’s work He’s in finance” Billy Litchfield had whispered to her in the church to avoid “hedge-fund ue and classier “When you talk to Mindy, emphasize how normal you are,” Billy had advised

“How long have you lived here?” Annalisa asked politely, turning the topic away from herself

“Ten years,” Mindy said “We love the building And the area My son goes to school in the Village, so it s easier”

“Ah” Annalisa nodded wisely

“Do you have children?” Mindy asked

“Not yet”

“It’s a very child-friendly building,” Mindy said “Everyone loves Sam”

Billy Litchfield joined them, and Annalisa decided noas the time to strike “Is your husband James Gooch?” she asked Mindy casually

“He is How do you know hi at her in surprise

“I read his last book, The Lonesome Soldier,” Annalisa said