EPILOGUETHREE MONTHS LATER
The first chill of impending autumn came in on a soft breeze, like the flutter of moth wings.
The heat of summer was finally behind them, like a predator slinking silently away. The friends sat on the back porch sipping their beers and looking up at the night sky. The moon was full, rising up toward the highest fronds of the palm tree. Stars filled the sky, filling the world beneath with wonder and promise. A promise of better days to come. Ingrid rose and headed into the house, then returned with three cold beers to replenish their supply. They were letting go of the past and moving forward together. They were enjoying the buzz and savoring the moment. Big Jim Bullock was there. And William Washington sat next to him, one hand resting against Jim’s arm. Throug
