"You mean you're not going to tell me Aunt Eileen promised to spring for a new couch again?" he says, teasing, grinning at her before he nods. "I'd appreciate that. We can split the cost on both." It's as important to her as it is a practical consideration for him, and if they're committed to making Black Elm a home for both of them--and to making everything else work too, where they're concerned--it's the kind of decision that matters.

His grin doesn't fade at what she asks next. "Absolutely. Wallpaper, too, if you'd like. The woodwork should be refinished, rather than painted, but for the areas that need it..." He sighs. "We're going to have quite the project, Stern."