he went up the stairs to the second floor , but paused in the dark hallway between the staircase and the dining room . `` i 'm telling you , you do n't want to do this . she said with an annoyed tone . it was inviting , like a campfire on a cool night . the place was crowded with shoppers , all of whom seemed to be having a good time in the new complex . peace did n't arrive in a single day . 