Before he could unlock the door, though, he saw he had a visitor. The woman smiled. “Good morning, Mr. Campbell. I thought it was time we had a talk.” She motioned with her eyes toward the barber shop. “Well, yeah, Miss Vinson, sure.” Brun opened the door, then followed the woman inside, leaving the CLOSED sign facing outward. He gestured toward the piano bench, but Bess remained on her feet, still smiling. “What can I do for you?” Brun asked. “You must have some idea, Mr. Campbell.” “Well, I guess I do. But hey, Miss Vinson, give me a break, huh? Look around this place. He extended his arms, palms up. “You come by what, four days ago—” “Five. Last Wednesday.” “Whatever. Where do you think I’m gonna come up with five thousand dollars? I never had that much money in my life.” “I don’t know.” Her voice was level, patient. “My brother-in-law’s talked to Mrs.
