“We couldn’t,” Arthur muttered, already half-asleep. “It wasn't BOGO back then.”

The showroom was a labyrinth of polyester blends and faux-leather finishes. They bypassed the sectional sofas and the mid-century modern loveseats, heading straight for the "Power Motion" department. There, they found the objects of their desire: the Bolingbrook Rocker Recliners in a dignified slate gray.

“Arthur?” Martha asked, her voice coming from deep within the plush headrest. “Yes, dear?” “We should have done this ten years ago.”

A salesman named Gary hovered nearby, sensing a closed deal. “The BOGO deal applies to all in-stock floor models. We can have these in your living room by Tuesday.”

Tuesday couldn’t come fast enough. When the delivery truck finally pulled away, the Pendergasts stood in their living room, looking at the two massive chairs side-by-side. They looked like two friendly boulders had decided to move in.

When the Sunday circular landed on their doorstep with a glossy spread from Ashley Furniture, Arthur circled the headline in thick red ink: Buy One, Get One Free Recliner Event.