Chapter 27After two days, the storm has relented. Light streams through skylights and dormer windows, brightening the home lighter than when I first arrived. I stand and stretch my creaking limbs, and head to the patio for fresh air. On the beach, roaring waves have quietened to white-capped ripples, and strong winds are a gentle breeze, whirling salty mist from the sea. Detritus litter the yard with items blown from the beach and neighbor's homes. I place the patio chairs around the tethered-outdoor table, and survey the home, fearing damage, but surprisingly, not a single shingle was disturbed.
The ache pervading my legs for two days prompts me to rush upstairs to my overnight bag and dress for a run. I ponder a circular route into town and back past Lighthouse Beach. At the front door,
