Chapter Eighteen
The sky opens up as Mom and I run from the truck to the meeting space, and we’re soaked by the time we get to the door. We’re running late, and I can see through the glass in the door that the meeting has already started. Around fifty people are in attendance, and I recognize many of my neighbors and long-time restaurant patrons. The Fosters are seated near the front. Mr. Makao and his mother are there, too. Next to them are Simon Thibodeaux and his daughters Nia and Rachel. The Thibdodeauxs own a large medical supply distribution company here in Pointe Hill. They are powerful allies, and the smiles on their faces let me know that at least I have them in my corner.
Mr. Wilcox, one of our local representatives, is behind the podium addressing the audience. Mom and I excha
