NARRATIVE of WARD COURIER, Continued

August, 2011

RUSKIN, NY

She looked at me with an expression I've never seen on her. Maybe she had been truly surprised. She didn't say anything, though, and we sat in silence for another minute. I wouldn't have been surprised if she had stood up contemptuously or even threatened me. I got up to get us both some water at the bar.

I returned with two pint glasses, no ice, and Lys was not alone. A guy about my size and age ...