Low blow, Joe thought, jumping again to Kate’s defense. “Any furniture would work. You just can’t find craftsmanship like this anymore.â€?

“My stuff will look great in here,â€? Kate said softly, trying not to laugh at Joe’s tone. “I want you to be comfortable here.â€? She walked a few steps towards Adam, and took his hand in hers. “It’s going to be your home, too.â€?

“You’d feel right at home in this apartment!â€? Joe used his realtor voice again. Kate was looking at Adam like he was – like he was a man. It turned Joe’s insides hollow to see her be so gentle to someone so rough. Focusing on work was his only defense.

“Apartment pimp,â€? Adam snarled again, this time looking at Joe.

“What did you call me?â€? First he thought he must have misheard, but then it angered him. He jumped off of his perch by the kitchen bar.