The sheriff, Tyler, and Darcie had made the social gathering more palatable, but Drayco was still relieved to return to his temporary “home.” Lucy and Virginia were spending more time with Maida since Beth’s death, so he wasn’t too surprised to see them in front of the Crab. Above the inn, the hazy sky gave way to a muted sunset palette of rust and pomegranate. The early evening air couldn’t shake off much of the day’s heat and humidity.
Drayco spied Barry Farland’s ’66 Mustang convertible down the road as it sped toward the Lazy Crab. It came in so fast, Barry apparently didn’t see Virginia at the edge of the inn’s driveway—he was heading straight toward her. Before Drayco could react, Virginia wheeled out of the way to safety.
Barry jumped out of the car and didn’t bother turning it of
