FIFTEEN
“Let’s get in the car,” heckled Oliver over his shoulder as he rushed toward a forest green Land Rover stationed on a brick driveway between two manicured hedges. Oliver stopped next to the door of the vehicle. He looked at the collections of hydrangeas, lilacs, rhododendrons, roses, and other flowers that sculpted his garden. The fragrances still lingered, even as the warm climate of summer had receded into the gentle arms of autumn. He observed the first tinges of red atop the highest trees that foretold a coming change in the season.
Celia burst from the front door of the house. Blonde pigtails careened behind her in a haphazard race toward the vehicle. She carried a black athletic bag with extra shoes, another pair of shorts, knee pads, shin guards, and a mirror with wh
