The townhouse at 7 Dutton Street was a building typical of North Borough.
The ground floor had been leased to a small coffee shop, its exotic aroma drifting into the street from dawn until dusk. The first and second floors served as Locke Stafford's private residence, containing her living room, kitchen, and bedchambers.
A secondary staircase led to the third floor from the side of the house. This was the space Adam rented as his living quarters. Above it lay a modest attic beneath the sloping roof, providing additional space.
Behind the townhouse sat a small fenced backyard enclosed by a weathered wooden fence. It was large enough for a few chairs and a patch of garden. Nevertheless, it offered a rare bit of privacy amid the crowded city.
Seated on the sofa in the living room, Adam sipped on the black tea made by Mistress Stafford. Beside him, Dorothy sat obediently, wagging her tail as she stared at Adam.
