Every word, every inflection, was perfect. No actor could have matched that sinister soliloquy.
Vance smoothed the sleek black hair that at once crowned and characterized him.
"It's a great privilege to be allowed to assist in any way at Elaine's wedding," he observed unctuously. "Anything which I can do to help make this a happier occasion for her is a pleasure."
Blue fire flared in the scientist's eyes. He looked away quickly.
A moment later his composure was regained.
"There are some things in the laboratory I wish to bring to the house," he announced. "If you will come this way—" He opened the back door. Led the antique dealer down the brick walk to the laboratory.
Together, they stepped inside.
The door swung shut. In the silence its jarring slam echoed like a shot fired in a tomb.
Vance cleared his throat.
"So this is your laboratory, professor—"