it was late , but the grocery store glowed with light and welcome heat . we went out for dinner , met friends at clubs , and took long walks . we actually just sold our house and im trying to pick up the pieces . six months later , shed figured out what the office manager did , and when he fell short , she was ready to step in . he spoke slowly and clearly , to be sure of understanding . here there was nothing but the sounds of insects and the occasional shout from the castle . 