Bass explained himself, but Evelyn’s attention remained on the group of children as she absentmindedly wiped her hands with a dishtowel.
“What did you say your name was?” she asked.
“Gilbert Bass. I’m a police detective.”
“Oh, yes,” Evelyn said, again in a nonchalant manner. Her head turned in the direction of the children. “I’m just waiting for Timmy and Cindy. They’re coming up the sidewalk now.”
A boy and girl about nine and ten years of age, respectively, passed Bass on their way into the house. The girl had blonde hair like her mother’s, and also wore glasses. The frames were baby pink.
“Put your study books in your rooms.”
The ten-year-old girl had her yellow sweater flung over her arms in such a casual manner that one of the sleeves dragged on the floor.
“Cindy, pull up your
