Chapter 4
Light morning drizzle does not stop Pari from a walk on the beach, just a block away from the Apapane Ring neighborhood. Robust waves curl upward like hooded cobras, roll forward and strike the shore. A woman of sixty with a black umbrella approaches in the opposite direction, staring downward as she plods barefoot through the sand. Pari recognizes her fine blond hair, styled in a curled bob, and the frilled cuff and high collar dress she wore last night to the wedding rehearsal dinner.
Dee Lamar, startled by Pari's greeting, recovers from a momentary gasp and agrees to let Pari stroll with her. Dee offers to share her umbrella, but Pari chooses to feel the pinpricks of rainwater on her hair and face. Dee attempts to remain stoic through their conversation, but her pale ey
