"Money in bank?"

"Yeah. Went in this morning. No probs."

I strolled into the living room, crashing down in front of the TV.

"When you're ready, love. A coffee would be nice." I said.

As I watched the news an image of Stella, my recent victim, flashed through my mind. As I struggled with the vision of her beautiful smile as she opened the door, letting me in, Julie appeared alongside my armchair a mug of coffee in her hand.

"Penny for your thoughts." She said as I took the mug from her.

"Nothing much. Just tired I guess." I replied.

She placed a hand on my forehead and began caressing away the worry lines gathered there. I smiled up at her.

"Better?" She asked.

I nodded.

"Hon, the money'll help pay the morgage and Timothy's term in school, but we need much more if we are to get a decent holiday this year."

I nodded again-in agreement.

She put her arms around my neck.

"And, hon, I want to go somewhere really nice Somewhere really exotic."

She kissed my forehead.

"I want you to surprise me."

She let go and returned slowly to the kitchen.

"Dinners ready!" She called.