The sole open door was at the end of the hall to the right: 3W, the only empty room on the floor. “Let’s start there,” Negret suggested. “But anybody can walk in and out of that room. It wouldn’t be a very secure spot to hide anything.” “Maybe the thief’s counting on it not being a very likely hiding place,” Negret argued. “And keep your voice down.” Just as he had the day before on the floor above, Negret examined the hallway with fresh eyes. Pressed-tin ceiling separated into sections by dark brown beams. Old wallpaper, although on this floor it was embossed with designs of swirling jade that matched the darkest pieces in the window. There were three sconces along the wall on each side, and at the far end, a little half-circle-shaped table with a potted white poinsettia on it. Check for traps, Negret remembered. Maybe there wouldn’t be any actual traps, but there was always the possibility of someone spotting what they were up to and asking questions. He paused, listening.
