You know TB, I think that so many of us face a challenge separating the novel from the film. When reviewing the novel, of course there can be quite a difference from the film. In this case, Connie flies back from Vegas apparently once she learns of Carlo's death. Who knows how she found out. But during her confrontation with Michael she tells Kay that, based on the news stories, he murdered Barzini and Tattaglia along with Carlo. So, there's no telling how much time elapsed between Carlo's disappearance and Connie's consequent arrival on the mall. The film added to the drama with the moving van et al. I liked the way she pushed the one mover out of the way as she entered the house.