A surprise

John felt that the diva was a bit nervous. When he just opened his mouth:

"Mrs. Carey..."

"You don't have to call me that. It's fine with just Mariah."

"I think you're worried about my visit. Am I not welcome here?"

"Oh God, please don't say that! I know I haven't paid the rent for three months..."

Three months? But shouldn't it be easy for her to pay with her income?

"... but please don't drive me out! Anything but that!"

"S... sure, but can you pay by now?"

"If you want... then please wait for a bit."

She let him sit at the table while she went into the bed-chamber. John didn't have to wait for long, but when Mariah walked out, her appearance surprised him. Well, that's an understatement: it shocked him.