"If you don't, I'll scream," threatened Marise. "Open that door at once, or I'll yell at the top of my lungs."
"I don't think you will," said Severance. "You don't like scenes, except on the stage. Besides, I don't care a damn if you do yell. It won't change things in the end."
The girl's answer was to lift her voice and shriek as only a trained actress can shriek.
Instantly, before she had reached her highest note, Garth stepped over the low window-sill.
"I was waiting for that," he said. "I knew you were here, Marise, so I lurked on the loggia. Unlock that door, Severance."
The other man was olive grey with rage and disappointment. It occurred to Marise that he looked seasick.
"Unlock the damned thing yourself!" he spat, and flung the key on the floor.
It landed near Garth's feet. But Garth did not stoop.
"Pick up the key," he said quietly.
"I'm damned if I will!" sputtered Severance.