24
A carnival atmosphere permeated the End of Summer Festival, despite the convict at large that had been sighted amidst their revelry the previous evening. The aroma of barbecue wafted above the crowd, and country music thumped from the speakers around the dance floor. Craft booths were conducting business, and samples from the chili cook-off were being handed out. One of the awards, titled People’s Choice, meant everyone was given a scorecard along with five samples.
Carl took the fifth sample and the scorecard. Never one to particularly care for spicy food, he enjoyed it with new zeal as he realized anything beyond prison fare was worth eating. He nodded his thanks and wandered away, a white chicken chili in his hands. It tasted good, but not as spicy as he imagined Samantha would be
