An Understanding
AT SIX IN THE EVENING, when Eric parked in front of Hilarie’s house, she said, “Thanks for the ride,” and unbuckled her seat-belt.
“This is your place?” he asked, staring in wonder at the modest white single-story ranch-style house.
“Yeah.”
“It’s so...small.”
“Gee, thanks.”
“I’m only making an observation.”
“The house is cozy.”
“Which is realtor speak for small.”
“We can’t all live in big fancy mansions like you,” she said before stepping onto the sidewalk.
“You aren’t going to invite me into your cozy abode? I could use a glass of water.”
“Fine. I hope tap water is good enough for you, your highness.”
When they stepped into the living room, he commented, “Wow, your house seems even tinier inside.” He scrutinized the room’s contents: the ugly green sofa from Va
