"Well, with a new paint job, how could they pass it up? If I didn't already have a place of my own, I might actually think of stayin' here." Of course, Fred didn't plan on ever staying here, not on her own. She knew what went on in this motel, or what had gone on. She had to hope that it wasn't happening anymore. Plus, she had a feeling Sam was having a heart attack of the overprotective male variety.
"So, how's your mother?" As soon as she said it, she could have kicked herself. In fact, she might have leaned a little towards Sam; she tilted the clipboard slightly as if to distract herself from looking at Sam or Norman.
"Glad people have been coming by. It's good that you're getting business."